gadget
Benco S1 Review: Budget-friendly Smartphone or Something More?
With a focus on reliable performance, features, and user experience, the Indian smartphone brand Benco continues to captivate tech enthusiasts looking for affordable yet efficient devices. Benco unveiled its latest smartphone, S1 on April 10 in Nepal. This new device has quickly gained attention in the budget-friendly phone market. Let's take a look at the key specs, pros and cons of the Benco S1.
Key Features of Benco S1
Design
The Benco S1 features a front glass panel, a plastic frame, and a back panel made of plastic, resulting in a lightweight device. The dimensions of the Benco S1 measure 168.47 x 75.34 x 8.5 millimeters, contributing to its sleek and compact form factor. It weighs about 203.4g.
The phone has a V-notch display. The placement of buttons and ports is average. The volume rocker and power button are located on the side of the device, while the USB-C charging port and audio jack are positioned at the bottom.
The phone's overall design doesn’t fall far from the other phones in the same price range. It has no design fault, and the design won’t cause any inconvenience while using.
Read more: vivo Y36 Review: Does Price Meet Performance?
Display
The Benco S1 phone features a 6.8-inch display with an HD+ resolution of 1640 x 720 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 269 PPI. The display utilizes IPS LCD technology, offering balanced color reproduction and wide viewing angles. With an aspect ratio of 20:9, the Benco S1's display provides a more elongated and narrower form factor, ideal for multitasking and split-screen usage.
However, it is worth noting that the device lacks display protection, leaving it susceptible to scratches and smudges. Additionally, the absence of a notification LED eliminates the convenience of quickly checking for missed calls or notifications at a glance.
Front Camera
Equipped with a 16-megapixel front camera, the Benco S1 captures somewhat average selfies. The camera's AI enhancements optimize lighting conditions but don’t make a notable difference. The AI beautification features are supposed to enhance facial features. However, it ends up smoothing out a few imperfections.
Read more: 15-inch MacBook Air M2 Review: What’s new?
Rear Cameras
The Benco S1's rear camera setup consists of a 48-megapixel primary sensor, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. The primary sensor can capture landscapes, portraits, or close-up shots. The ultra-wide-angle lens expands the field of view, which is ideal for capturing panoramic shots with greater depth and scale. The depth sensor creates a natural bokeh effect in portraits, blurring the background and highlighting the subject.
Performance and Software
The Benco S1 phone runs on the Android operating system, specifically version 13. It is equipped with an octa-core Unisoc T606 CPU, and an ARM Mali-G57 MP1 GPU clocked at 650 MHz. The device offers a generous 128 GB of internal storage in terms of memory, providing ample space for apps, media files, and other data.
Additionally, it supports microSDXC cards, allowing for expandable storage options. The Benco S1 comes with 4 GB or 6 GB of RAM, which ensures smooth multitasking and efficient performance for various applications and tasks.
Battery and Charger
The Benco S1 comes with a 5,000mAh battery that offers long-lasting usage on a single charge. Additionally, the device supports fast charging technology, allowing for quick recharging and reduced downtime.
Read more: Samsung Galaxy A34 5G Review with Price in Bangladesh
Pros of Benco S1
-Standard design
-Full HD+ display
-High-resolution front camera
-Versatile rear camera setup
-Smooth performance
-Long-lasting battery with fast charging support.
Read more: Xiaomi 13 Ultra Review: Does this flagship phone offer any ultra feature?
Cons of Benco S1
-Limited availability in certain regions
-Lack of wireless charging functionality
-No water or dust resistance rating.
Read more: Hollyland Mars 400S Pro Review: A must-have gadget to make flawless videos
Price of Benco S1 in Bangladesh
The Benco S1 is available in Bangladesh. Its price starts from BDT 10,000.
Conclusion
The Benco S1 offers commendable features, performance, and affordability, positioning it as a contender in the budget-friendly smartphone segment. The phone is perfect for someone looking for an affordable phone with minimal capabilities. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limited availability, lack of wireless charging functionality, and absence of water or dust resistance rating.
Despite these drawbacks, the Benco S1 can be a good choice for those seeking a feature-packed smartphone at a reasonable price.
Read more: Google Pixel 7a Review: Mid-range Smartphone with Enhanced Camera Features
vivo Y36 Review: Does Price Meet Performance?
vivo recently launched Y36, an update to their Y series, globally on 27th May 2023. The smartphones under vivo Y series offer premium looks. Like its predecessors, the vivo Y36 blends in modern design elements in a compact mid-range package. Let’s look at the detailed review.
Key Specifications of vivo Y36
Design and Build Quality
Much of the design elements of the Y36 have been carried forward from the outgoing Y35. The Y36 takes a more toned-down design approach compared to the flashy refractive back of the Y35. This design choice is purely subjective as some might prefer the minimal look over the flaunting one. The large rectangular camera housing on the back is almost becoming synonymous with the Y series design and that is probably a good thing. It’s adding a distinct design element that highlights the Y36 from the rest.
At 202 grams, the device is on the heavier side for an all-plastic device. Much of that can be attributed to the footprint of the device which comes in at 6.46 x 3.00 x 0.32 in. The front of the device houses the 6.64-inch display which with an 85.4% screen-to-body ratio, looks like an entry-level smartphone from yesteryear.
Read more: 15-inch MacBook Air M2 Review: What’s new?
Other than the front with its large chin, there aren’t any design loops with the Y36. Ports and buttons are all placed as usual with the 3.5 mm headphone jack staying for another iteration. There is also a dedicated micro SDXC slot on the device which will be necessary if one goes with the entry-level 4/64 GB variant.
Overall, the device feels great in looks. The weight distribution felt even with a good balance all around. For anyone looking for a minimal yet stylish device at a mid-range budget, the Y36 can be a perfect pick.
The Display
While the display bezels might not be all that pleasing to look at, the story is completely different from the display itself. The 6.64-inch display is an IPS LCD panel with 1080P by 2388P FHD+ resolution, 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 550 nits HBM. The 395 PPI is more than enough for an LCD panel making it a pretty solid performer.
Read more: Xiaomi 13 Ultra Review: Does this flagship phone offer any ultra feature?
Being an LCD panel, the 550 HBM isn’t all that great. Even with max brightness, legibility under direct sunlight will still be a strenuous ordeal. But most people won’t be using the device in the scorching sunlight as is.
The performance of the panel itself is satisfactory. It will not compete with the likes of AMOLED with washed-out blacks. But the display has its own perks. Unlike most LCD panels, the display on the Y36 doesn’t suffer from weird color shifts here and there. The viewing angles are good with accurate color reproduction.
The 90 Hz refresh rate is another plus point of the device as it delivers a smooth interactive experience. Overall, the display on the Y36 isn’t the best of the lot out there. But it certainly produces passable results.
Read more: Hollyland Mars 400S Pro Review: A must-have gadget to make flawless videos
The Camera
The camera on the Y36 is a bit confusing. The device has a triple camera setup with 50 MP main sensors, 2 MP depth, and a 2 MP macro shooter. However, the macro shooter is not available in every region. For the South Asian market, the macro sensor has not been included in the design.
Moving on to the performance of the camera, it's exactly what one would expect from a mid-range device. vivo has come a long way from their over-processed photo era and it honestly makes a big difference. Photos under direct sunlight look natural and crisp with great details all around. The depth sensor aids well in portrait shots though the edge detection is a hit or miss at times.
However, the camera performance drops a bit in indoor or artificial lighting conditions. It's not drastically different but the images overall become a bit soft.
Read more: Samsung Galaxy A34 5G Review with Price in Bangladesh
The story is the same with the 16 MP front camera as well, great daylight pictures and moderate low light images.
The Y36 videography is rated at 1080P at 30 fps. With the main camera resolution and processing power, vivo could have provided 4K technology on the device. But the guess is that lack of OIS or EIS may have deterred the move.
15-inch MacBook Air M2 Review: What’s new?
Apple enthusiasts and tech enthusiasts alike have eagerly awaited the arrival of the highly anticipated 15-inch MacBook Air. With its larger screen size and enhanced features, this latest addition aims to redefine the consumer laptop experience. Released on June 13th, the MacBook Air 15-inch M2 is generating tremendous buzz as Apple's online store prepares for the surge of eager customers. This article delves into the latest features, pros and cons of Apple’s latest Macbook Air M2 15-inch model.
Key Specs of 15-inch MacBook Air M2
Design
The 15-inch iteration of the MacBook Air, powered by the M2 chip, adheres to the design principles established by its 13-inch counterpart. Its sleek and lightweight construction remains a focal point. The laptop retains a flat and uniform chassis, featuring elegant flat edges.
Read more: Apple is expected to unveil sleek headset aimed at thrusting the masses into alternate realities
With dimensions of 13.4 x 9.3 x 0.45 inches and weighing a mere 3.3 pounds, the MacBook Air 15-inch M2 is among the thinnest and lightest laptops available. With a 0.45-inch thickness, the M2 claims to be the slimmest 15-inch laptop in the market. Noteworthy competitors, such as the Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Pro 360 and Dell XPS 15 OLED (2023), measure 0.5 and 0.71 inches in thickness, respectively.
Samsung Galaxy A34 5G Review with Price in Bangladesh
The A series from Samsung has seen several denominations over the years. The series entitles Samsung’s premium mid-range smartphones. Samsung recently launched the A34 5G globally on 24th March 2023. Traditionally, the Samsung Galaxy A34 5G is supposed to be a lower spec than the A54. But this year, things are different. Here’s why.
Key Specifications of Samsung Galaxy A34 5G
Design and Build Quality
For a few years now, Samsung has started to incorporate the flagship S series design into their A-series lineup. While it is not feasible to bring every element to the A series, the overall dimension , and back design surely represent the premium line.
This year too, the A34 is reminiscent of the current S23 flagship, at least on the back design. The same vertical camera design is found on the A34 with a frosted finish. Anyone would be hard-pressed to tell the difference from afar.
Read more: Hollyland Mars 400S Pro Review: A must-have gadget to make flawless videos
The difference becomes obvious on the front. Unlike the S23, there is a significant amount of bezel all around. Yet Samsung has worked to streamline the overall bezel to give the front a more unified look and it works to some extent.
The build of the device is all around plastic with a glass front and Gorilla Glass 5 protection. Weighing 199 g, its design (6.35 by 3.07 by 0.32 inches) is quite manageable with one hand. The device has an IP67 dust and water resistance meaning it can withstand 1 meter water for 30 mins max.
Moving on to ports and buttons, users will have everything standard from Type C ports to volume rockers and power buttons in their usual places. Unfortunately, the headphone jack is not present on the A34 as well.
Read more: Xiaomi 13 Ultra Review: Does this flagship phone offer any ultra feature?
Overall, the design and build quality of the A34 are satisfactory as it follows its predecessors and the current flagship.
Display
The 6.6-inch display on the Samsung Galaxy A34 is a Super AMOLED FHD+ one with a 120 Hz refresh rate. The 120 Hz refresh rate is an upgrade from the 90 Hz on the last-gen A33. The panel also features a 1000 nits HBM which makes it perfect for outdoor legibility.
The resolutions of Galaxy A34 are 1080 by 2340 pixels, with 19.5:9 ratio and around 390 ppi density. Speaking of display performance, it's every bit what’s expected from Samsung. It’s safe to say this is the best display in its budget. The colors looked bright and crisp with a slightly warm tone. The viewing angles are also excellent with no weird color shift or blue tint.
Read more: Google Pixel 7a Review: Mid-range Smartphone with Enhanced Camera Features
The high refresh rate makes interacting with the panel a buttery smooth experience. To sum it up, the display on the A34 is best as it gets in a mid-range device and is a strong selling point for the device.
The Camera
The camera on the A34 is a triple sensor setup vertically aligned on the back. The main sensor is a 48 MP wide-angle shooter. The complementing sensors are an 8 MP ultrawide and a 5 MP macro shooter.
It might seem like a downgrade from the A33 as it loses the depth sensor. But in practicality, the enhanced main sensor more than makes for the lacking.
Read more: Top 10 Upcoming Smartphones in Bangladesh on June 2023
In the test, the camera produced decent results. Images taken in bright light appeared to be highly detailed and the subject separation from the background also seemed to be much better than on the A33. There have been improvements in night photography as well thanks to the more optimized variable shutter on the stock camera app. Pictures looked well exposed with minimal noise and grains. The latter only appears in extremely dark conditions.
Hollyland Mars 400S Pro Review: A must-have gadget to make flawless videos
In the world of videography, seamless communication among camera operators and directors is paramount. The Hollyland MARS 400S Pro emerges as a game-changer in this realm. This video monitoring device is specifically designed to cater to the needs of small film crews and videography teams. With minimal latency, the MARS 400S Pro allows directors and staff to remotely monitor the camera operator's footage, providing a hassle-free and efficient workflow. This article delves into the features and capabilities of this remarkable video transmission device.
What is Hollyland MARS 400S Pro?
It is a specially designed wireless video transmission tool. The Mars 400s PRO features a fresh and enhanced design. This innovative system boasts a lower center of gravity, resulting in a more compact setup.
Notably, the transmitter and receiver are equipped with an integrated cold shoe, ensuring a stable and convenient installation. Additionally, the system includes an OLED screen that intelligently conserves battery power by automatically entering low power mode and reducing brightness when idle for more than 5 seconds.
Read more: Mini DC UPS for Wi-Fi Router: Buyers' Guide and Price Ranges in Bangladesh
Key Features of Hollyland Mars 400S Pro
Input/Output
Transmission: The MARS 400S Pro comes equipped with 5G SDI ports on both the transmitter and receiver, in addition to a full-size HDMI port. While many smaller consumer cameras do not utilize SDI, it is a common feature among monitors and recorders. Both the SDI and HDMI ports allow simultaneous video signal output, enabling a maximum of four devices to monitor a single camera, along with an additional four devices viewing on smartphones.
Hollyland emphasizes the range of their Mars 400s PRO system. They claim a distance of 400ft (122m) when the transmitter and receiver face each other in an unobstructed setting. For optimal performance, they recommend positioning the devices 1.7m above the ground.
To cater to the growing popularity of streaming, Hollyland allows the receiver to be connected to a computer through a USB-C to Ethernet dongle (not included). This enables direct recording of the stream into software like OBS or VLC.
Read more: Top 10 Upcoming Smartphones in Bangladesh on June 2023
- Firmware: Firmware updates can be easily performed through the USB-C port located on both the transmitter and receiver. A straightforward procedure allows for updates in the field if necessary.
- Battery Power: There are multiple ways to power the devices as well. You have the choice to employ Sony NPF batteries, USB-C, or the included DC power adapter. When using NPF batteries, the device will indicate the remaining battery voltage. Conversely, if you power the device using USB-C or the DC power adapter, it will display a power icon indicating the power status instead of the battery voltage.
- External Power: DC power is supplied through a high-quality socket with a threaded design, ensuring a secure connection with the power plug.
- Antennas: RF signals are transmitted via two 2 x RP-SMA Male connectors, allowing for easy connection to longer range antennas. The package includes a spare antenna for convenience.
- Mount: Each unit features a female 1/4-20 tripod thread on the base, enabling vertical or horizontal mounting options.
Read more: Mini DC UPS for Wi-Fi Router: Buyers' Guide and Price Ranges in Bangladesh
Video Resolution
The maximum supported resolution is 1080p at 60fps. The MARS 400S Pro automatically detects the incoming signal's resolution, eliminating the need for manual configuration. While it would be great to have 4K monitoring capabilities, the MARS 400S Pro offers satisfactory resolution for its price point, especially when considering prevalent usage scenarios.
Latency
The MARS 400S Pro offers low latency, with presets available for adjusting the latency settings. While the latency may be noticeable in certain situations, it remains within an acceptable range for most applications. HollyWood claims the MARS 400S Pro’s latency to be less than 0.1s. Professional-grade devices provide even lower latency, but they come at a significantly higher price.
Video Quality
The video quality delivered by the MARS 400S Pro is superb. The receiver outputs video that is virtually indistinguishable from the source, especially in scenes with minimal motion. While there are distinctions between professional and consumer-grade devices in terms of compression methods, the MARS 400S Pro offers sufficient performance for its price point.
Read more: Xiaomi 13 Ultra Review: Does this flagship phone offer any ultra feature?
Cooling
The MARS 400S Pro is equipped with running fans to dissipate heat generated during the encoding process. There are three cooling modes available: auto, low and off. In the auto mode the fan speed adjusts automatically depending on the external temperature.
Smartphone Monitoring
The MARS 400S Pro allows for simultaneous connection of one transmitter to up to four smartphones for video monitoring using the Hollyview app. The app's interface is user-friendly, providing access to a range of tools and features. While smartphone monitoring may have occasional video glitches, it remains entirely usable and adds significant value to the product.
Other Uses
In addition to its primary function as a wireless video transmitter, the MARS 400S Pro can serve as a viable option for recording, video sending, or even as a CCTV solution. Its versatility opens up exciting possibilities for creative applications.
Read more: Google Pixel 7a Review: Mid-range Smartphone with Enhanced Camera Features
Pros and Cons of MARS 400S Pro
Pros
-Lightweight and compact design-Low latency transmission with line-of-sight range up to 400'-Multiple power options-Bright OLED display-Up to 1080p60 SDI or HDMI video transmission capacity-Multiple monitoring options-Sturdy all-metal body construction
Cons
-HDMI cables not included-Slight latency delay-Comparably limited range-Additional accessories may be required for mounting and antenna options.-The case for transportation needs to be purchased separately.
Read more: realme 11 Pro Plus Review: Mid-range phone with flagship features
Price of Hollyland MARS 400S Pro
The Hollyland MARS 400S Pro is priced at INR 37,000 or BDT 48,203. The conversion rate here is INR 1 = BDT 1.30. However, the official price of MARS 400S Pro may vary in Bangladesh due to tax and other issues.
Verdict
The Hollyland MARS 400S Pro is a robust and versatile wireless video transmission system, offering impressive features like low latency, multiple monitoring options, and a sturdy all-metal body. However, it does have minor drawbacks like a slight latency delay, limited range, and the need for additional accessories.
Despite these, its benefits outweigh the cons, making it a valuable tool for small film crews and videography teams. It may not be the best fit for those seeking zero-latency or long-range transmission. But for those looking for a reliable, high-quality, and cost-effective solution for on-set monitoring, the MARS 400S Pro is a worthy investment.
Read more: Motorola Edge 40 Review: Is it a flagship killer?
Xiaomi 13 Ultra Review: Does this flagship phone offer any ultra feature?
Xiaomi has been known for its extravagant "Ultra" versions of flagship phones in recent years. Holding this legacy 13 Ultra is set to have an international release on June 7, expanding its availability beyond China. Let's take a look at the details of Xiaomi's latest flagship smartphone, Xiaomi 13 Ultra.
Key Features of Xiaomi 13 Ultra
Build and Design
The first notable aspect of the phone is its size, particularly the camera module, which is remarkably large and attracts attention when in use. The phone's weight has been alleviated to some extent. Don't worry, its 227g weight is well-balanced. Comparatively, it is slightly lighter than both the S23 Ultra and iPhone 14 Pro Max while being similar in overall size with a 163.2x74.6x9.1mm dimension.
One distinguishing feature of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is the vegan leather finish available in three colors: white, black, and olive green. This design choice aims to emulate the aesthetics of traditional SLR cameras. The leather-like texture enhances grip, which is particularly important given the phone's large size.
Read more: Google Pixel 7a Review: Mid-range Smartphone with Enhanced Camera Features
The phone's frame is constructed from aluminum, combining flat sides with rounded corners to ensure a comfortable grip. Furthermore, the device boasts a tough build, with Gorilla Glass Victus protecting the display and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
In terms of biometrics, the phone incorporates a fingerprint sensor within the display, as well as a face unlock option facilitated by the punch-hole selfie camera. Both methods of authentication perform well and offer convenient security options.
Display
The phone has a large display of 6.73 inches that makes it well-suited for various tasks, including productivity, gaming, and streaming movies.
Impressively, the display quality is noteworthy as well. Xiaomi utilizes LTPO OLED display technology, enabling the screen to dynamically adjust its refresh rate. It can reach a maximum of 120Hz for smooth scrolling and animations when necessary. It can also conserve battery life by slowing down the screen refresh rate when possible.
Read more: Top 10 Upcoming Smartphones in Bangladesh on June 2023
Paired with a sharp 1440p x 3200p resolution, the phone's top-tier display offers exceptional visual quality. Almost everything appears pleasing on this panel, and in case it doesn't meet your preferences, Xiaomi has included numerous color profiles and settings to allow for fine-tuning of the content.
Performance and Software
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the latest and most advanced 4 nm chip available for Android phones at the time of writing. Only Samsung's Galaxy S23 line, with its slightly overclocked custom version of the same chip, surpasses Xiaomi in terms of performance. Furthermore, in 13 Ultra, you get adreno 740 GPU.
The phone boasts impressive specifications with up to 1TB of storage and 16GB of RAM. This configuration results in a true powerhouse that can effortlessly handle the latest Android games and seamless multitasking.
Read more: Asus ROG Phone 7 Review: Does it offer value for money?
Benchmark tests further confirm its capabilities. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra ranks among the most powerful Android phones in CPU-focused Geekbench tests. It also keeps pace with its competitors in graphics-intensive GFXBench scores, despite having a high-resolution display that typically affects frame rates.
Connectivity features present no surprises. The phone comes with standard 5G support, supplemented by Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC, ensuring compatibility with the latest standards.
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra comes pre-installed with Android 13, featuring Xiaomi's MIUI 14 on top. However, the Chinese version of the phone does not include the Google Play Store, which can make app installation a frustrating experience. To address this, users need to sideload Google services onto the device. However, the international version of MIUI includes full Google support, ensuring a seamless experience with Google services.
Read more: realme 11 Pro Plus Review: Mid-range phone with flagship features
Rear Cameras
The main camera employs the same 50MP, 1-inch Sony IMX989 sensor found in the 13 Pro, as well as other phones like the Vivo X90 Pro and Oppo Find X6 Pro. However, the Ultra enhances the camera by adding a variable aperture.
The phone truly excels in low-light conditions, capturing some of the best concert photos ever taken on a phone. In good lighting, the main camera performs exceptionally well, with the only drawback being Xiaomi's tendency for slightly vivid and saturated photos, even when using the more subdued 'Leica Authentic' photo style instead of the default 'Leica Vibrant' (Xiaomi has partnered with Leica for the phone's optics).
The supporting rear cameras also contribute to the overall camera prowess of the 13 Ultra. All three of the other rear cameras utilize 50MP sensors, specifically the Sony IMX858 sensor.
Read more: Motorola Edge 40 Review: Is it a flagship killer?
The ultrawide camera, although competent, is the least remarkable of the three. It closely aligns with the main camera most of the time but struggles in challenging lighting conditions due to the absence of optical image stabilization, resulting in overexposure in certain situations.
Google Pixel 7a Review: Mid-range Smartphone with Enhanced Camera Features
The Google Pixel 7a is the latest addition to the Pixel lineup, released in May 2023; it is already available in the Bangladeshi market from the beginning of June. This mid-range smartphone comes with impressive features, including a 6.1-inch OLED display, a powerful Google Tensor G2 processor, and a 64-megapixel camera.
With its high-end specs, the Pixel 7a is a strong contender in the competitive smartphone market. In this review, we will take a closer look at the device's design, performance, camera capabilities, and overall user experience to help you decide if it's the right choice for you.
Key Features of Google Pixel 7a
Design
In a world where all Android phones look similar, you can easily identify a Pixel handset. The Pixel 7a resembles its predecessor, the Pixel 6a. It has a sturdy and durable feel, featuring a metal camera bar and a scratch-resistant display made of "Gorilla Glass 3."
Read more: Top 10 Upcoming Smartphones in Bangladesh on June 2023
Weighing about 193.5g the device has dimensions of 5.98 inches by 2.87 inches by 0.35 inches. Pixel 7a is built with an aluminum frame, glass front and plastic back. It also offers IP67 dust/water resistance.
The Pixel 7a is available in various colors: Charcoal, Sea, Snow (white), and Coral (exclusive to the Google Store). These shades are appealing and give off a colorful, futuristic, and refined vibe without appearing flashy or inexpensive.
However, similar to previous Pixel models like the Pixel 6, this new model is somewhat slippery in terms of its design. Therefore, we suggest using a case with a better grip to enhance its handling.
Read more: Honor Magic5 Ultimate Review: What’s special about this flagship smartphone?
Display
The 6.1-inches OLED display on the Pixel 7a doesn't bring a significant change compared to the Pixel 6a. Its resolutions are 1080p by 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio and about 429 ppi density.
However, it does offer an important upgrade with a 90Hz refresh rate option in the settings. This aligns it with the refresh rates found on the Pixel 7 and breaks the pattern of Pixel A phones being limited to 60Hz. While this option is disabled by default, enabling it enhances the smoothness of the screen and provides a noticeable improvement, especially for those familiar with high refresh-rate displays. It is a worthwhile upgrade.
Apart from the Pixel 7a having a more prominent black border, there isn't a significant distinction in terms of the screen when compared to the Pixel 7. Both screens perform exceptionally well in bright outdoor conditions, delivering sharp detail and vibrant colors. So, most users should not encounter any major problems with this aspect of the phone.
Read more: Asus ROG Phone 7 Review: Does it offer value for money?
Cameras
Google has introduced a new camera module for both front and rear cameras. The Pixel 7a introduces a new 64-megapixel primary camera equipped with a Sony IMX787 sensor. This is the first time an A series phone incorporates a Quad Bayer Type 1/1.73 sensor with a pixel size of 0.8µm. The main camera also features an f/1.9 aperture and optical image stabilization.
Additionally, the phone includes a 13-megapixel ultrawide camera with a 120° field of view and an f/2.2 aperture, utilizing a Sony IMX712 sensor.
As for the front camera, there is a new 13-megapixel sensor with an ultra-wide focal length equivalent to 20mm, which is a fresh addition to the Pixel line.
Read more: realme 11 Pro Plus Review: Mid-range phone with flagship features
Similar to previous Pixel A series phones, the Pixel 7a does not include a telephoto lens. Instead, it relies on Google's Super Res Zoom technology to enhance cropped photos and prevent pixelation. With Super Res Zoom, you can zoom up to 8x, and there is a convenient 2x shortcut available in the camera app. This is noteworthy because previous Pixel A series phones did not have access to Google's hybrid zoom features.
Top 10 Upcoming Smartphones in Bangladesh on June 2023
The Bangladeshi smartphone market will see some new launches of smartphones featuring cutting-edge technology and innovative designs. These upcoming smartphones are going to serve a wide range of consumers, from budget-conscious buyers to tech enthusiasts seeking the latest advancements. Top brands are gearing up to introduce their latest models, boasting impressive features such as 5G connectivity, advanced AI-powered cameras, and long-lasting battery life. Let’s explore some of the most hyped smartphones hitting the Bangladeshi market this June 2023.
10 Most Anticipating Smartphones Releasing on June 2023
Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a gaming fanatic, or a productivity-driven individual, the upcoming smartphones will surely help you to choose one.
Samsung Galaxy F54
The Samsung Galaxy F54 comes with a sleek build featuring a glass front, plastic back, and plastic frame. The device offers a stunning 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, providing a fascinating visual experience.
Powered by the Android 13 operating system and the efficient Exynos 1380 chipset, the Galaxy F54 delivers exceptional performance. With 8GB RAM and options for 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, it ensures plenty of space for your files and apps.
The triple rear camera setup includes a 108 MP main lens, an 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens to capture stunning photos and videos. The 32 MP front camera delivers impressive selfie shots.
The smartphone also features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, compass, and a long-lasting 6000 mAh battery with 25W fast charging support.
Read more: Asus ROG Phone 7 Review: Does it offer value for money?
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023)
The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 is a versatile smartphone designed for users seeking both functionality and style. With dimensions of 162.9 x 74.1 x 9.2 mm and 195g, this device features a glass front, plastic frame, and plastic back, along with a water-repellent design for added durability. The 6.5-inch IPS LCD display offers a 90Hz refresh rate and an 84.5% screen-to-body ratio for a non-distracting viewing experience.
Powered by Android 13 and the Mediatek Helio G85 12 nm chipset, the Moto G Stylus 5G 2023 provides smooth performance with its octa-core CPU and 4GB RAM.
The dual main camera setup features a 50MP wide lens and a 2MP macro lens, which helps to capture high-quality images and 1080p video.
Read more: Motorola Edge 40 Review: Is it a flagship killer?
Vivo S17t
The Vivo S17t is a feature-packed mid-range smartphone that offers a stunning visual experience with its 6.78-inch AMOLED display. With vibrant 1B colors, HDR10+ support, and a peak brightness of 1300 nits, the display delivers smooth visuals.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8050 chipset and running on Android 13 with OriginOS 3, the S17t ensures smooth performance and a seamless user interface. It comes with 12GB of RAM and a generous 512GB of internal storage.
The smartphone comes with a dual-camera setup featuring a 50 MP main camera and an 8 MP ultrawide lens for taking detailed and wide-angle shots. This device also sports a 50 MP selfie shooter.
Despite its slim profile, the S17t packs a 4600 mAh battery with 80W wired charging, allowing for quick recharging.
Read more: Walton NEXG N6 Review: What’s special about the new series
Huawei Nova Y91
Running on EMUI 13 without Google Play Services, Huawei Nova Y91 delivers a unique software experience. weighing about 214g, it comes with a huge display of 6.95-inches.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G 6 nm chipset and featuring an octa-core CPU, the Nova Y91 ensures efficient multitasking. Further, it comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage.
It has a dual camera, which includes a 50 MP wide lens and a 2 MP depth sensor. The 8 MP front camera can take impressive selfie shots.
With a massive 7000 mAh battery and 22.5W wired charging support, the Nova Y91 offers long-lasting power.
Read more: realme C55 Review: A Promising Budget-friendly Phone
Infinix Note 30i
The Infinix Note 30i is a budget-friendly but feature-rich smartphone that comes with a moderate visual experience with its AMOLED display measuring 6.66 inches. While the exact display resolution is unconfirmed, it delivers sharp and vibrant visuals.
Powered by the MediaTek MT6769 Helio G85 12 nm chipset and running on Android 13 with XOS 13, the Note 30i ensures smooth performance and an intuitive user interface. With 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, it provides enough storage for your everyday file management.
The dual rear camera setup includes a 64 MP main lens and a QVGA lens. However, the 16 MP front camera is good enough for detailed selfies.
Further, it features dual speakers for an enhanced audio experience and comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack. The audio quality is further improved with sound tuning by JBL, providing an immersive audio experience.
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Asus ROG Phone 7 Review: Does it offer value for money?
There was a time when high-end premium flagships served as the best mobile gaming devices. There were no custom gaming-specific smartphones in the market. That all changed with the likes of Razer, Redmagic, and ROG phones. Among several brands, the ROG Phone built up a reputation for being the most comprehensive mobile gaming solution. Asus recently launched the ROG Phone 7 on 13th April on a preorder basis. Here’s everything about the device and why it might be the best gaming smartphone of 2023.
Key Specifications of Asus ROG Phone 7
Design and Build Quality
The design of the ROG Phone 7 is similar to its previous iterations. Just like the ROG laptops, the ROG phones are every bit flashy and eye-catching in their own way.
This year, there is a slight design change on the back. The polygonal camera housing is still the same and as unique as ever. There is a diagonal cut that brings two tones to the back of the phone. The upper part is made to be a see-through portion much like the Nothing Phone 1. Though users won’t see the exact internals, just the graphics. The bottom portion is finished in matte with the RGB ROG eye logo in place. The white and black color variant brings an impressive color array and stunning look to the device.
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Its dimensions are 6.81 by 3.03 by 0.41 inches. Being a gaming phone, the ROG 7 is on the heavier side at 239 grams. The device has been stacked with ports and features that would exclusively cater to gamers. The front and the back of the device I protected by Gorilla Glass Victus and Glass 3 respectively. There is a smooth metal frame all around the device complemented by ROG branding. The branding on the two right-side corners also acts as gaming triggers.
There is a headphone jack and a USB Type C port at the bottom with another Type C port on the side. There's also a three-pin port for the accessory mount. Since this is a gaming phone, a charging port on the side makes perfect sense. Here’s a complete list of the mounting options available to the users.
The usual sim tray and color-coded volume and power buttons are carried on from the ROG 6. In essence, the ROG 7 is not much different from the ROG 6 in terms of design, build quality, and accessibility. And it exactly works in favor of the ROG 7.
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The Display
The display design on the ROG 7 will not appeal to everyone. There’s a considerable chin on both the bottom and top of the device. But it's completely understandable and even appreciated by gamers as it assists with the horizontal holding of the phone avoiding accidental touches. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
Coming to the specifications of the panel, the display is a 6.78-inch AMOLED panel with FHD+ (1080 by 2448 pixels with 395 ppi density) resolution. The usual 1B color and HDR10+ is here along with the insane 165 Hz refresh rate. The device has a peak brightness of 1500 nits which is more than enough for gaming under the sun.
The display is smooth, crisp, and has excellent touch response. This is what one would expect from a gaming smartphone and the ROG 7 delivers big time.
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The Camera
The camera isn’t really a priority in a gaming smartphone. Yet Asus hasn’t completely overlooked the camera performance of the ROG phones. The same capable camera system from the 6 is carried onto the 7.
There’s a 50 MP main sensor with an additional 13 MP ultrawide and 5 MP macro shooter. The main camera does a decent job of capturing photos in daylight with good details and exposure. Asus has taken full advantage of the powerful processor of the ROG 7 and pushed the videography to up to 8K at 24 fps for the cinematic shots.
There is also a 32 MO front camera for all selfie lovers. Overall, the camera system of the ROG 7 produces passable results. Considering the target demographic of this phone, the camera on the ROG 7 will be more than satisfying.
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realme 11 Pro Plus Review: Mid-range phone with flagship features
realme 11 series smartphones have already got popularity for combining latest features and smart looks under affordable price ranges. realme 11 Pro Plus is the latest addition to this series. It was launched on May 10 in China. Though being a mid-range smartphone, realme 11 Pro+ offers some exclusive features like the flagship devices. Let’s see what's special about this phone.
Key Features of realme 11 Pro+
Design and Display
Featuring a front-panel punch-hole cutout and a quad-camera setup on the rear, the realme 11 Pro Plus is a fully-loaded device. This latest smartphone features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a pixel density of 394 ppi, offering a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels. With a remarkable 90.5 percent screen-to-body ratio, the phone also includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a face unlock feature, ensuring enhanced security.
It showcases a sleek design and solid build quality. It has dimensions measuring either 161.6 x 73.9 x 8.2 mm and weighs approximately 183 g or 189 g (6.46 oz). The device features a glass front, providing a smooth and polished appearance, while the back is available in options of either leather or plastic. Additionally, the realme 11 Pro Plus comes with a durable plastic frame, ensuring sturdiness and protection.
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The phone will be available in three color variations, Black, Green, and Gold.
Camera
It comes with a triple camera setup on the back 200 MP wide camera, 8 MP ultra-wide, and 2 MP macro lens. But the star of the show is the 200 MP main camera, which utilizes Samsung’s ISOCELL HP3 sensor. Despite realme and Samsung being direct competitors in the mid-range phone market, the two companies collaborated closely to enhance the camera performance specifically for the realme device, as per their marketing claims.
The realme 11 Pro Plus attaches the power of its 200MP camera to deliver impressive capabilities. One notable feature is the utilization of 16-in-1 pixel binning, which enables the device to generate a 12.5MP image that contains 16 times more information than a typical 12MP photo. This innovative technology allows the camera to capture significantly brighter images, surpassing what would typically be expected from a sensor of its compact size.
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Another notable capability of the realme 11 Pro Plus is its ability to leverage all 200 million pixels and employ in-sensor cropping to create “zoom” photos that maintain a remarkable level of detail and sharpness. realme takes pride in highlighting that its phone is the sole device within its price range to offer true in-sensor crop functionality, a feature previously exclusive to more expensive smartphones like the iPhone 14 Pro and Xiaomi’s flagship models.
Despite all those impressive features, the realme 11 Pro Plus doesn’t have a dedicated zoom lens. But you can zoom up to 4x with the regular lens, and it is quite notable. In addition, the realme 11 Pro Plus is equipped with a 32 MP front camera.
Overall the camera system provides a wide array of features, including AI capabilities, Night Mode, Slow-motion, Portrait Mode, Panorama, Burst mode, Face Beauty, QR Code scanning, Display Flash, HDR, Flashlight, as well as hybrid zoom, optical image stabilization, and support for up to 1080P video recording.
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Battery and Connectivity
The realme 11 Pro Plus comes equipped with a massive 5000 mAh battery, providing ample power for extended usage. It supports 100W fast charging, enabling rapid charging capabilities through the USB Type-C port.
In terms of connectivity, the realme 11 Pro Plus offers compatibility with 5G network connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2. Additionally, NFC functionality is available on the device. Notably, the phone features an in-display fingerprint sensor, ensuring both fast and secure biometric authentication.
Hardware and Software
The Realme 11 Pro Plus is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 7050 (6 nm) Processor, which is renowned as one of the top budget processors available in the market. The phone is available in three storage variations 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB. However, all the variations come with 12 GB RAM. Since you are getting huge storage options, it doesn’t have any external SD card option.
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The realme 11 Pro Plus is built on a powerful platform, featuring an octa-core CPU configuration with two high-performance cores clocked at 2.6 GHz and six efficiency cores clocked at 2.0 GHz. This combination ensures a balance between processing power and energy efficiency, enabling smooth multitasking and responsive performance.
In terms of graphics capabilities, the device is equipped with the Mali-G68 GPU, delivering impressive visual rendering and supporting immersive gaming experiences.
In terms of software, the realme 11 Pro Plus runs on the latest Android 13 operating system. It also features the realme UI 4.0 user interface, which is designed to provide a seamless and user-friendly experience, ensuring smooth navigation and intuitive functionality.
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Price of realme 11 Pro+
Although the final price is yet to be announced. As per news and sources, realme 11 Pro Plus might start from Rs. 24,890 or BDT 32,318 (Rs. 1= BDT 1.30). However, the official price of realme 11 Pro Plus in Bangladesh may vary due to tax, company policy and other issues.
Pros and Cons of realme 11 Pro Plus
The Realme 11 Pro Plus boasts several noteworthy pros that make it a compelling choice for smartphone users. It features a vibrant FHD AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring a visually immersive experience with enhanced fluidity.
The device runs on the latest Android 13 operating system, coupled with realme UI 4.0 custom UI, providing a seamless and user-friendly interface. Additionally, the realme 11 Pro Plus offers stereo speakers, delivering an enhanced audio experience for multimedia consumption.
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While the realme 11 Pro Plus offers a range of impressive features, it also has a few cons to consider. It lacks reverse or wireless charging support, which may be a drawback for those seeking convenient and cable-free charging options.
Additionally, it does not feature any Gorilla Glass protection, making the display more susceptible to scratches and damage. Another notable downside is the absence of an optical zoom camera, limiting the device’s zoom capabilities for capturing distant subjects.
Final Words
Based on its camera, hardware, stylish leather-backed design, and impressive 120Hz AMOLED panel, it is evident that the realme 11 Pro Plus follows in the footsteps of its predecessors in delivering excellent value at an affordable price. If you are looking for an affordable mid-range smartphone that offers some impressive flagship features, don’t miss realme 11 pro+.
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