The famous TV manufacturing company TCL has officially launched the TCL 40 XE 5G smartphone. The phone is advertised as the most affordable 5G smartphone in the market. TCL 40 XE 5G kicks off at $120 and is now available via Verizon.com and Verizon stores. TCL’s new 40 XE 5G comes with notable upgrades over its predecessor.Â
Speaking about the specifications, TCL 40 XE 5G flaunts a 6.56-inch HD+ display with a maximum 90Hz refresh rate and 180Hz touch sampling rate which makes the scrolling and gaming experience even smoother. You’ll get a triple rear camera setup at the back with a 13MP primary camera joined by a 2MP depth and 2MP macro unit. There’s an 8MP front-facing camera for selfies and video chats. Â
The smartphone is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset paired with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage which is also further expandable up to 1TB via microSD card. It packs a big 5,000mAh battery which TCL claimed to offer all-day battery life on a single charge.
I was excited to get my hands on Timekettle’s Fluentalk T1 Handheld translator device. As someone who took five years of French (four in high school, two semesters in college), three years of high school German, and having grown up in a bi-lingual family (Vietnamese and English); it felt like I could have saved a lot of time with the power of translation in my literal back pocket. Â
With a retail price of $299, does it offer enough to warrant its relatively high cost when compared against smartphone competitors such as Google and Apple Translation apps?
Design
The Fluentalk T1 is a beautiful device. Measuring 4.59×2.3x.01in (116.8*58.6*11.2mm); it is roughly 25% smaller than Apple’s iPhone mini range of smart phones. It weighs just over 4oz at 115g; also 25% lighter than the iPhone mini. The device features a 4″ screen with 540×1080 resolution.
The Fluentalk T1 runs on a 2.0Ghz quad-core ARM chip with 3GB of ROM and 32GB of RAM. It runs on Android 10 operating system. It packs multiple microphones and dual speaker configurations which allow it to be the “middleman” when multiple parties are conversing. It also features an 8MP camera allowing photo translation. The device includes 2 years of 2G/3G/4G LTE wireless connectivity but also connects via WiFi.
Features
Google translate supports 133 languages while Apple’s native translation app does 17. This puts the Fluentalk T1 right in the middle of Google’s and Apple’s offerings with support for 40 different languages and 93 accents.Â
Both Google and Apple translation apps are available for free in their respective app stores with Google Translate available to both Android and iOS users.
The first question I asked myself was, “is there enough that the Fluentalk T1 offers that warrants carrying multiple devices?” It’s 2023, most, if not all, of the target market for this type of device is already carrying a smartphone. The second question answers the first, “how well does this translate compared to the free apps?”
I’ll focus my attention on the Fluentalk T1 and only make reference to the smartphone apps where there is significant deviation in experience. I am not able to fully verify the quality of the translation based on dialect or regionality so I am going to assume that it is 95% accurate as stated.
Home Page
Once I turned on the device and allowed it to download and install system and language updates, I ran the device through its paces asking for Vietnamese translations of common English phrases.
Although I am essentially illiterate in my native tongue, I understand it fluently. First you set the native (blue) and translation (red) language on the home screen for One-Click Translation. From here, you only have to push and hold the blue or red button while speaking the respective language in order initiate both a spoken and text translation.
Also on the home page, you can do photo translations using the 8MP digital camera. Snapping a photo allows you to translate from the current selected native language to any of the supported languages so you only need one photo to translate multiple times. However, you must save each photo translation separately if you are going to translate to more than one language.
Scroll Right
To the right of the homepage, you will find configurable world time clock and currency conversion tools. Your translation history is also found on the lower portion of this screen.
Scroll Left
These additional apps/features are located by scrolling left from the homepage.
Ask For Directions – Allows you to create a custom message that could be used to engage with a foreign speaker. The default message is announced in English from Spanish. When you select this app, it automatically goes to the default message you have selected. You add more and select your default by using the hamburger icon in the top right side of the screen. When entering this app, the default view changes to landscape mode.
Chat Translation – Allows you to position the device between those talking with the respective microphones pointed towards the language of the speaker. I did not have the opportunity to try this feature in real life.
Listen Mode – Allows you to record audio and
Voice Memo – Voice memos that also offer transcription.
User Guide – Instructions on how to use the device and the various apps/features.
Common Expressions – Scenario based translations such as “Urgency, Restaurant, Hotel, Bank, etc.” The language is independent of what is selected for One-Click translation and is selectable at the top of the Common Expressions main screen.
SOS – Provides telephone emergency services information for the country you may be traveling in. It does NOT provide connectivity to those emergency services.
Settings – Self explanatory
Performance
Unfortunately, I wasn’t given the opportunity to try the Fluentalk T1 in a foreign land. I had the idea of using it at a local Mexican restaurant but I felt that it might be awkward or even insulting to try it with strangers. I’m wondering if I would feel the same while doing actual travel.
That said, I tried using One-Click Translation as I though I were at a Mexican restaurant. Despite being in a quiet bedroom setting, the device had a difficult time transcribing and hence translating my statement. “I would like a pitcher of margarita.” would be transcribed as, “I would like a picture of margarita.” Hilarious and a little frustrating while in the comfort of my own home. It could be deadly if I were in Mexico asking the server for that picture if his wife’s name just happened to be Margarita. To be fair, Google and Apple Translate also had difficulties transcribing that statement. However, those applications allow you to type the correct statement while the Timekettle product does not. It’s unfortunate that the onscreen keyboard is not available in this mode as it seems it’s the primary feature you would use.Â
I also tried the listening mode while watching “Stranger Things” trying to translate conversations of the Russian prison guards to English with very little success. This would not be the device to watch foreign films and expect to gain more understanding beyond visual context.
From an audio translation perspective, I found Spanish, French, and Vietnamese to all be high quality. Inflection was good and the voices were all pleasant. English on-the-other-hand was very mechanical or robotic.
Battery
This is the area that I personally find most disappointing. A couple times I wanted to bring the language translator along with me but having sat 2-3 days idle, it was completely dead. If you intend to travel with this device, I would definitely recommend that you plug it in nightly. I’m guessing that it would last approximately a day with heavy use. This might not be a deal breaker but I was quite surprised how much battery life drained while not in use.Â
Wrap-Up
Timekettle’s Fluentalk T1 Handheld Translator Device is solid and compact translator. It offers a nice screen and essential features that you would want if you were to travel to a foreign country.
Offering both online (Wi-Fi and two years of free cellular) and offline translations (limited and must be downloaded in language pairs); it would be a valuable accessory while traveling IF you didn’t already carry a smartphone. I am not sure the retail $299 price tag is justified when you consider prepaid Android phones are available for less than $50. You could simply purchase a phone and download Google Translator.
In doing research, I did find one reviewer who thought the Fluentalk T1’s niche application could be while traveling to countries where cell phone theft is common. That way you are not left stranded by presenting a device that may be stolen by the person you are asking for help. If that use case is fits your needs, you can purchase it at retail on Amazon.Â
Poco unveils its latest Poco F5 series smartphones in the Global markets. After so many leaks and anticipations, finally, the device is now fully official. The Poco F5 series consists of the Poco F5 and Poco F5 Pro variants. Design-wise both smartphones looks pretty good, and boast sturdy build quality.
Poco F5 Pro kicks off at $449 and is offered in Black and White two beautiful color options whereas the vanilla variant- Poco F5 starts at $379 and comes in three gorgeous color options- Electric Blue, Snowstorm White, and Carbon Black. Both smartphones are now available via Poco’s official website and other E-commerce sites.
In terms of specifications, Poco packs full power-packed features in both smartphones. The Poco F5 Pro is powered by a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor paired with Adreno GPU, up to 12GB of RAM, and 512GB storage, under the hood. The device boots Andriod 13 based on MIUI14 out of the box.
It has a 6.67-inch WQHD+ AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1400 nits of peak brightness, and Dolby Vision support. The smartphone features a triple rear camera setup at the back- a 64MP primary lens joined by 8MP ultrawide shooter and a 2MP depth unit. There’s a 16MP snapper at the front for selfies and video chats.
The Poco F5 Pro packs a massive 5,160mAh battery with support for 67W fast charging tech it also has 30W wireless charging support.
On the other hand, the base Poco F5 is also launched in India at starting price of ₹29,999, comes with the same 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1000 nits of peak brightness, and Dolby Vision support. It packs a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging support but there is no support for wireless charging.Â
You’ll get a snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 chipset in the Poco F5 smartphone coupled with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. Other highlights of the Poco F5 smartphone include Dolby Atmos, dual stereo speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and up to 7GB virtual RAM support. Poco F5 smartphone features a triple rear camera setup at the rear- a 64MP primary lens joined by 8MP ultrawide shooter and a 2MP depth unit. There’s a 16MP snapper at the front for selfies and video chats.
Blackview, the innovative technology brand, is preparing to release the highly anticipated flagship BV9300 rugged phone and peerless comfortable AirBuds 10 Pro earbuds. BV9300 is a game-changer with a revolutionary laser rangefinder, flashlight, up to 21 GB RAM and 256GB ROM, octa-core Helio G99 processor, 15080mAh battery, and 50MP+32MP camera with ArcSoft® 3.0 algorithm. These five breakthrough upgrades in ruggedness, fluency, battery, camera, and OS make BV9300 the perfect choice for people with an active and rugged lifestyle. AirBuds 10 Profeatures advanced air conduction technology and an open-ear design, providing business, leisure, and sports enthusiasts with ultimate comfort, unparalleled sound quality, and a unique appearance. Here’s a sneak peek of what we know so far.
2023 New Flagship Rugged Phone — Performance King Blackview BV9300
Taking into account the handy, safe, and professional accurate measurement needs of construction workers, outdoor explorers, and sports enthusiasts, BV9300 features an innovative laser rangefinder that can measure the height of up to 40 meters. With an impressive 1 mm accuracy and a quick response time of just 0.3 seconds. Whether measuring lengths, areas, and volumes during indoor decorating and furniture installation or measuring safe distances during outdoor extreme sports or fire survival situations, BV9300 is well-suited for a variety of applications. Simply press the customized shortcut button to quickly access the rangefinder and start measuring. By putting user safety and practicality first, BV9300 is an ideal choice for anyone who needs to quickly and accurately measure distances on a daily basis.
Blackview understands the lighting needs of users while traveling or working, and BV9300 standard version comes equipped with a 100-lumen super-bright flashlight. This flashlight can illuminate up to 10 meters away, providing users with brighter, clearer, and safer lighting. Whether exploring a route, searching for lost items, night fishing, or camping, BV9300 can meet the lighting needs of most users. In terms of safety, users can use the flashlight to simplify long-distance communication by sending signals similar to Morse code in areas with poor signals. Alternatively, users can use the flashlight’s built-in SOS strobe mode to send a distress signal, quickly notifying rescuers or nearby people for help in emergencies. Moreover, BV9300 not only eliminates the hassle of carrying heavy flashlights but also greatly enhances personal safety at night, enabling users to easily enjoy outdoor travel and work.
To cater to the demands of outdoor enthusiasts and workers, BV9300 has a built-in phone lanyard hook that allows users for easy access to the phone while preventing it from being dropped or lost during outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or outdoor work. It also boasts MIL-STD-810H military certification, leading IP68 and IP69K waterproof ratings, and a Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5-protected screen, ensuring reliable and durable performance in harsh environments like rainforests and deserts. With BV9300, users can rest assured that the phone is always within reach.
Avant-garde Battery Upgrade
Solid-state 15,080mAh Battery, Completely Kill Your Power Anxiety
To ensure users’ safety and provide stable and long-lasting battery life during navigation, communication, and emergency situations outdoors, BV9300 features 15,080mAh solid-state battery and 33W fast charging, with the use of a dual-cell battery improving safety during use. With just 3.5 hours of charging time, the standby time can last up to 1,828 hours, even during trips spanning up to 8,280 km such as those along the Euro, Asia, Africa or America circuits, without any battery anxiety. Additionally, the quad-navigation and compass offer continuous service for up to 575 hours, while the non-stop emergency call time is up to 84 hours and the flashlight can last for 59 hours. Even in caves, rainforests, or during emergencies, BV9300 provides reliable support for adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and workers. The upgraded glove mode ensures users can operate BV9300 with high sensitivity even in extremely cold conditions of -30°C/-22°F while wearing thick gloves, keeping them connected at all times.
Forceful Fluency Upgrade
Octa-core Helio G99(6nm) & up to 21GB RAM & 256GB ROM & 120Hz Adaptive Refresh Rate
To provide users with the ultimate usage experience, whether it’s for gaming, streaming videos, traveling, or working in daily life, Blackview BV9300, as Performance King, is equipped with an octa-core MediaTek Helio G99 processor, which has maximum clock speed of up to 2.2GHz, up to 21 GB RAM and Atomic Memory, increasing the overall fluency of BV9300 by 50%. With a benchmark score of up to 353,283 on Antutu, comparable to 5G chips, seamless multitasking is ensured, and users can smoothly run up to 20 apps. Additionally, BV9300’s 6.7-inch 2.3K display supports a 120Hz dynamic refresh rate and 10-point touch, providing a smoother experience when launching and switching between apps, combined with the high-quality sound provided by the smart-PA box large speaker, taking the users’ audiovisual experience to a new level.
In addition, to enable users to store all their important files, photos, videos, music, and apps without ever having to worry about running out of space, Blackview BV9300 offers a whopping 256GB ROM. And for those who need even more space, BV9300 also supports up to 1TB TF expandable storage.
Captivating Camera Upgrade
– 50 MP+32 MP Cameras with ArcSoft 3.0 Algorithms
To enhance users’ ability to take high-quality photos effortlessly even in low-light conditions, BV9300 is equipped with a 32MP Samsung® front camera and a 50MP Samsung® rear camera, as well as True Tone and Tetrapixel technology, ensuring brighter photos in low-light environments and clearer images in bright environments. With a large 1/2.8-inch sensor, more light can enter the camera, increasing overall sensitivity by 25%. Whether users are traveling, taking photos at night, attending parties, or simply going about daily lives, BV9300 will capture memories in the most realistic way possible.
Moreover, BV9300 is powered by advanced ArcSoft® 3.0 algorithms and a range of impressive features, including face fill light in low-lit conditions, 120° ultra-wide, 1cm ultra-macro, beauty mode, portrait mode, 360° panorama, and 2K beauty video capture. These features enable users to meet their photography needs in various scenarios and provide professional-quality content. Furthermore, BV9300 offers exceptional value for money, making it the perfect choice for consumers who want a rugged phone with powerful all-around camera without breaking the bank.
OS Upgrade
To provide users with the ultimate experience in personalization, smoothness, convenience, BV9300 comes equipped with a brand new DokeOS 3.1 based on Android 12, which has a bunch of self-developed modes suitable for different scenarios. New Focus Mode enables users to block out all external distractions when they need to concentrate. New Health Mode allows users to track their fitness metrics, including steps, calories, time, or distance for activities such as running, walking, and cycling. Cold Room function temporarily freezes less frequently used apps, effectively addressing lagging issues and saving more power and data usage. Additionally, the system saves and optimizes RAM Fast and Atomic Memory for smoother operation.
State-of-the-art Open-Ear Earbuds – Blackview Flagship AirBuds 10 Pro
Along with Blackview BV9300, Blackview’s brand new flagship open-ear earbud, AirBuds 10 Pro – are also worth anticipating. With stylish aesthetic design, advanced air conduction technology, φ16.2mm dynamic large driver, ENC noise cancellation, and a 550mAh mega battery, offering unparalleled comfort, sound quality, and a unique appearance for business, leisure, and sports enthusiasts.
To cater users with ultimate comfort and safety while listening to audio, Blackview has launched its first high-end open-ear earbuds, AirBuds 10 Pro, which utilizes advanced air conduction technology. This technology enables users to listen to crystal clear audio without needing to insert the earbuds into the ear canal. Coupled with ergonomic ear hooks, a lightweight design of only 9.8g, and a skin-friendly TPU material, users can wear AirBuds 10 Pro for extended periods without feeling any discomfort, while also preventing ear infections and other injuries. Whether driving and enjoying music while still being aware of traffic, listening to podcasts or audiobooks while still being able to clearly hear the sound of a golf club striking a ball, or jogging while still being aware of car honks on the road, AirBuds 10 Pro always allows users to stay connected while also paying attention to their surroundings during business, leisure, or sports activities.
To ensure an unparalleled audio experience and immersive bass, midrange, and treble, AirBuds 10 Pro uses cutting-edge φ16.2mm dynamic large drivers, a frequency response range of 20Hz~20kHz, and SBC and AAC audio decoders. Whether users are enjoying rock, pop, classical music, or especially hip-hop and R&B, AirBuds 10 Pro delivers concert-like thunderous bass, crisp midrange, and clear treble, providing a truly immersive audio experience that will leave users breathless. Additionally, AirBuds 10 Pro incorporates ENC noise cancellation and beamforming technology, enabling users to make crystal-clear calls even in the busiest or quietest environments such as crowded airports, lively cocktail parties, or business dinners, while maintaining privacy. Moreover, AirBuds 10 Pro’s business leisure trendy design and skin-friendly material provide users with a sense of confidence and comfort during use, while also being eye-catching and attractive.
To ensure users can enjoy long-lasting and uninterrupted audio playback, AirBuds 10 Pro comes with a built-in large 550mAh battery that provides up to 36 hours of music playback when used with the charging case, and up to 6.5 hours of music playback and 4.1 hours of talk time on a single full charge. Moreover, AirBuds 10 Pro adopts Bluetooth 5.2 technology with a stable range of up to 10 meters, allowing users to continue to enjoy music or stay connected on a call even when temporarily away from their phone, making it an ideal companion for business work, long commutes, flights, outdoor traveling, camping, and other activities.
To provide users with a more shock-resistant and durable experience in both business and outdoor activities, AirBuds 10 Pro is specifically designed with ergonomic ear hooks that fit snugly to the ear and prevent accidental dislodging during intense activities or outdoor adventures. Additionally, AirBuds 10 Pro boasts an IP68 & IP69 waterproof rating, reliably protecting against splashes, light rain, and sweat. Whether users are running, exercising, horseback riding, playing golf, or traveling outdoors, AirBuds 10 Pro is the perfect companion for all hobbies and adventures.
Price and Availability
Blackview BV9300 and AirBuds 10 Pro are now available at a special early bird price of $191.99 and $(price) respectively. This amazing offer will only be available for 5 days, starting from May 10th to 14th, 2023 PST. Don’t wait, take advantage of this limited-time deal and get your hands on these exceptional products now!
The Adonit Star is a digital stylus that is inspired by the sleek elegance of a timeless fountain pen. The stylus has a beautiful metallic body and a weighted feel, which provides a sophisticated digital writing experience.
Read on to learn what we thought of the Adonit Star.
Noteworthy Features
Inspired by the elegant design of a timeless fountain pen
Ideal for business professionals looking for a digital writing tool with sophistication
Palm rejection
Ultra-fine one mm tip for high accuracy
One-hour charge time provides up to 11 hours of use
Can be used while charging via USB-C
Compatible with a wide range of iPad models and newer models with iOS 12.2 and above
Gallery
Thoughts and Conclusion
With its classy aesthetic, Adonit Star is the perfect writing tool for e-signing and business professionals looking to make a lasting impression while keeping an upscale style inside any briefcase or work bag. The stylus is compatible with a wide range of iPad models and newer models with iOS 12.2 and above.
The stylus has nuanced details such as the Adonit emblem engraved in the stylus’ tip. The Adonit Star features palm rejection, an ultra-fine one mm tip for high accuracy, and has no Bluetooth connection needed. Simply turn on the stylus and begin writing for quick and easy tasks such as e-signing or note-taking.
The Adonit Star has a short one-hour charge time for up to 11 hours of continuous use, and can even be used while charging to avoid any disruptions in workflow.
The Adonit Star offers an elevated writing experience and is a reliable and elegant go-to stylus for those important moments. It is an excellent tool for business professionals looking for a digital writing tool that matches the sophistication of their day-to-day tasks. The Adonit Star is a premium stylus that can leave a lasting impression with its classy aesthetic, modern design, and elegant writing experience.
Chinese leading gaming smartphone manufacturer brand iQOO is gearing up for the launch of its latest iQOO 8 series smartphones. iQOO Neo 8 series will consist of two smartphones the iQOO Neo 8 and the 8 Pro. The firm also introducing its first-ever iQOO Pad along with Neo 8 series smartphones. Although, the brand hasn’t revealed yet the launch details of the iQOO Neo 8 series and pad.
Chinese tipster Panda is Bald has shared a bunch of promotional posters of the upcoming iQOO Neo 8 series smartphone and iQOO pad. These posters confirmed that the iQOO Neo 8 series and iQOO Pad will debut on May 23 in China.
Furthermore, the iQOO Neo 8 Pro smartphone has also been spotted on the Google devices list with model numbers PD2302 and V2302A means the smartphone might soon launch globally as well.
The rumored specifications of the iQOO Neo 8 Pro include a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED 120Hz display, a 50MP primary camera, and 16MP front snapper. The smartphone will likely be powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ processor and is tipped to offer up to 16GB RAM, 512GB storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging support.
OnePlus is preparing to launch its first foldable smartphone this year. A previous confirmation revealed the phone will be launched in 2023. According to a latest press release, a tipster by the name of Max Jambhor claims the company will unveil its foldable in the month of August. He made this known on his Twitter page. But the manufacturer has not offered information regarding the release date of the new foldable device.
That could come after the launch of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, the Z Fold 5, and the Google Pixel Fold smartphones.
Rumors also claim that OnePlus will name the new foldable device OnePlus V Fold. For now, that remains as it is; a rumor. However, there are indications that the name of the phone has already been sent for a trademark application in China. Apart from being a foldable, the smartphone will also be available in a flip version.
Details of OnePlus V Fold (Expected)
Displays: outer display – 5.54 inch AMOLED displa with 120Hz refresh rate. Inner display – LTPO AMOLED display with 120Hz variable refresh rate.
Rear cameras: 50MP primary Sony IMX890 camera with OIS, and LED flash, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 13MP 2x telephoto camera.
Front camera: 32MP selfie camera
Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 with Adreno GPU.
Storage: 12GB/16GB RAM and 256GB/512GB internal storage.
Battery: 4520 mAh with 67W fast charging support (wired charging)
Operating System: Android 13 with ColorOS 13 custom skin out of the box.
Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, a USB Type-C port, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, etc.
Rebadged version?
There are reports that OnePlus foldable will be a rebadged version of Oppo Find N2. The N2 smartphone has gone official in China already. The assumption could result from the 2022 merger between Oppo and OnePlus. This means that if the new foldable is a rebadged version, it may bear some similarities in spec to the Oppo Find N2.
Treblab makes an awesome array of wireless audio accessories for your connected devices. Whether it’s earbuds or full-fledged speakers, the company has been making great options that also don’t break the bank. I’ve been reviewing the latest model Treblab HD-Force speaker for a month now and it’s another top-notch addition to the Treblab lineup.
Design
The shape of the HD-Force isn’t quite square or a cylinder. Let’s call it a squircle. It’s covered in woven gray fabric that gives a pleasing aesthetic and the material adds to the environmental protection from the elements.
On the top of the Treblab HD-Force is a soft touch area that houses the button controls. There’s also an LED array for battery indications and status. Around the rim of the entire top is another LED ring that pulses different colors to spark up your listening experience. To each side are connections for the attached handle that makes taking this speaker on the go a breeze.
There’s a branded Treblab tag at the bottom of the front of the HD-Force. Around the back on one corner, you also get a covered expansion port bay. Behind the rubber flap, you get a 3.5mm jack, USB-A, microSD slot, USB-C charging port, and a dedicated reset button.
Controls
Let’s circle back to the controls for a moment. These are pretty consistent with most universal Bluetooth controls. The buttons have dedicated functions for play/pause, volume up/down, and power. You can take these controls further with a long press of the volume up button will skip to the next track. The same will take you back a track with the volume down.
The LED ring can be turned on and off by double-pressing the power button. A single press of the power button will switch between audio modes. This rotates between the Bluetooth, Aux port, and microSD card playback options.
Audio
The quality of audio produced by the HD-Force is very good. Even though this speaker is around the same size as a roll of paper towels, its output punches well above its weight class. The HD-Force has plenty of power to push out good bass but doesn’t drown out the rest.
When listening to higher-octave music, the highs, and mids come through with clarity and crispness. Even podcasts sound good on this device allowing the natural tones of just voices to be heard clearly.
Battery life
The endurance between charges is also good with the Treblab HD-Force. The company rates the speaker to last up to 25 hours at 50% volume and I’d say this is fairly accurate. I’ve used this exclusively during my workdays in my home office to play a mix of YouTube Music playlists and podcasts. The HD-Force lasted me around four full workdays of at least six hours of total playback.
When you do deplete the internal power pack on the Treblab HD-Force, you can charge it back to 100% within around eight hours via the USB-C port. That’s a little longer than I expected, but the power bank is rather large at 10,400mAh.
Speaking of the power bank. The USB-C and USB-A can be utilized in reverse. You can plug your other devices like a phone or tablet into these ports to recharge them. It’s a nice touch for a device that’s meant to be used while you are mostly away from outlets.
Conclusion
Treblab has returned to the market with another solid option with the HD-Force wireless speaker. The combination of compact size with large sound makes this device very compelling. Add the IPX6 water resistance, the easy-to-carry handle, and the overall cool design and the HD-Force should be on your list of new tech to add to your home.
Lastly, we have to talk about price. It’s unavoidable really. The Treblab HD-Force is $140 full retail from Treblab’s website or $130 on Amazon. This puts it somewhere just an impulse buy for me, but I still believe it’s well worth the cost.
OPPO is planning to launch its Reno 10 series smartphones in the market though the company hasn’t confirmed the exact launch timeframe yet. It is expected to debut in the upcoming weeks. Oppo Reno 10 series leaks are already started to surface online, a latest leaks revealed the cad-based renders of the OPPO Reno 10 Pro smartphone which is the middle member of the Reno 10 series.Â
So far renders suggest, the Reno 10 series smartphones boast a completely new rear design compared to its predecessor Reno 9 series smartphone launched last year. Moreover, the Reno 10 Pro will feature a 6.7-inch curved display and it will measure 163.2 x 74.2 x 7.9mm (10.2 mm at the rear camera bump). The smartphone will have a center punch hole cutout for the selfie camera and USB Type C port and a speaker grill at the bottom side, which you can see in the images.
Previous leaks suggest the upcoming OPPO Reno 10 Pro will be powered by MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chipset. The rest of the details of the Reno 10 Pro are still under the box but in the coming time, we’ll get to know more about it.Â
Talking about the rest two variants of the Reno 10 series- the Reno 10 and Reno 10 Pro+, according to the rumors, the base variants i.e the Reno 10 Pro will feature a 6.7-inch FHD+ OLED curved display, a 32MP selfie camera, and 2x portrait lens. Whereas, the top-end variant the Reno 10 Pro+ is said to feature a 6.4-inch curved 1.5K AMOLED 120Hz display, a 50MP primary camera sensor, and a 4,700mAh battery with 100W fast charging support. Under the hood, it is expected to come with a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 512GB of internal storage.
The Kaja Audio Go-To’s are a pair of wireless earbuds designed to be comfortable and easy to use, and which offer a long battery life. Moreover, they have a fairly decent set of features for their price.
Play time per charge: 6+ hrs (~20hrs at 50% volume)
Max hours per single case charge: 70 hrs
Charging time 0% to 100% in about 1.5hrs
IPX4 water resistance level
6mm dynamic driver
Noise cancellation type: Dual mics ENC
Gallery
Thoughts and Conclusion
The Kaja Audio Go-Tos have a sleek, minimalist design that is both stylish and comfortable. They are lightweight and come with (two sets) soft, flexible silicone ear tips that provide a secure fit. The earbuds are IPX4 water-resistant so you can wear them without concerns whether working out or running errands.
The Go-To’s are equipped with a variety of features that make them ideal for everyday use, particularly the long battery life. At six hours of listening per charge (or longer at 50% volume), you can get upwards of 70 hours from the case and earbuds.
The Go-To’s are Bluetooth compatible with all major smartphones and tablets, pair easily, and offer touch controls on each earbud. We like that these can work independently of each other and always appreciate support for Google Assistant (or Siri).
The sound is a bit more flat that we might have liked but it was in line with other earbuds in this price point. We’d have liked an EQ setting or app to go with the earbuds but understand that could be a stretch for the budget.
As a pair of earbuds for the everyman we think the Kaja Audio Go-To’s are worth a look. They are a decent “go-to” pair for working around the house, commuting, exercising, biking, and other daily activities. We’ve not had any problems with these thus far and feel like the brand is off to a decent start.
