OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro Features:

The OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro provide effective noise cancellation for their budget-friendly price. During an 11-hour flight to Milan for the OnePlus Summer Launch event, I found that the earbuds did a commendable job of reducing low-end rumble and attenuating the low and low-mid frequencies of the aircraft’s noise. However, the noise cancellation was less effective at higher frequencies. The Transparency Mode function is also impressive, offering clear environmental awareness and facilitating easy conversation without the need to remove the earbuds. One notable drawback is that the earbuds lack automatic wear detection; if you take them off while listening to music, the playback continues uninterrupted in the background.

The look and feel:

The OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro are available in two elegant color variants: Starry Black and Soft Jade. These earbuds feature a distinctive two-tone finish with a speckled, matte lower half and a glossier top half, reflecting a refined aesthetic. Sporting a compact teardrop design, the Nord Buds 3 Pro are IP55-rated for dust and water resistance, ensuring durability in various environments. The compact charging case, which easily fits into a jacket pocket or pant’s pocket, is designed for maximum portability. The earbuds themselves are lightweight and ergonomically crafted for a comfortable fit. During my week-long use, including extended periods at the gym and during runs, the earbuds remained snug and comfortable. The medium-sized eartips provided a perfect fit for me, though the package also includes small and large eartips to accommodate different ear sizes. The design of the Nord Buds 3 Pro has been refreshed to resemble the OnePlus Buds Pro series, combining style with functionality for an enhanced user experience.

Good battery life:

The OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro offers superb battery performance. With the ANC mode turned on, the earbuds’ battery easily lasts 3-4 days depending on the usage. The charging case adds another 2 days of battery life to that. So, on a moderate usage, the earbuds would easily last a week or so on a single charge. The earbuds also come with fast charging support. In a little over a half hour, you can fuel up the battery to full, but if you are in a hurry, charging it for 10-15 minutes would easily give you enough battery to last you a day.

Is the price worth it?

The OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro is a fantastic value proposition. If you are in the market for earbuds priced around Rs 3,000, these earbuds are a great option to look at. At Rs 3,299 the Nord Buds 3 Pro look premium, sound great, and offer a great ANC.

Recovered Album in iOS 18

According to a 9to5Mac report, the Recovered album appears in the Utilities section of the Photos app on iPhone following the iOS 18 update. This new album is visible next to the Recently Deleted tab. The feature is designed to identify and catalogue photos and videos on the user’s device that do not show up in the Photos app, allowing users to retrieve images and videos that may have been accidentally deleted and thought to be lost forever. This addition provides an extra layer of security for users seeking to recover important media.

This may include media that has a damaged database or those which don’t get saved in the photo library upon capture. However, it is suspected to be different from the Recently Deleted option which simply retains the deleted media in a folder up to 30 days after its deletion. It is unclear if the photos and videos in the Recovered tab will follow the same auto-delete schedule or stay in the iPhone library forever.

The report speculates that this feature may be in response to a bug reported in the iOS 17.5 update which resulted in the surfacing of media which users thought they had deleted permanently. As per the company, it occurred with “photos that experienced database corruption”. The issue was reported to have been fixed with iOS 17.5.1 update which arrived a few weeks ago. Alongside the iPhone, the Recovered option in the Photos app is also reported to arrive with iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia updates for the iPad and Mac, respectively. This development coincides with the rollout of the iOS 18 Public Beta, weeks after it was introduced to the developers.

Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 launch date revealed and features:

Xiaomi has announced via Weibo that the Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 will be unveiled on July 19 in China at 7:00 PM local time (4:30 PM IST). The posters suggest that the foldable will be available in blue and white shades, featuring a sleek 9.47mm profile and a weight of 226 grams. The Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 will sport a Leica Summilux quad-camera setup, including two telephoto dual macro cameras with a 5X periscope unit. It supports 50W wireless charging and boasts an IPX8-rated waterproof build. The device is confirmed to have a carbon body with a T800H carbon fiber hinge, offering stiffness up to 5,500MPa. This carbon lightweight technology, inspired by Xiaomi cars, is claimed to increase the device’s strength by 300 percent. Additionally, the foldable supports two-way satellite communication, enhancing its connectivity features. Alongside the Mix Fold 4, Xiaomi will launch the Redmi K70 Ultra on July 19. It is teased to get a 1.5K AMOLED screen with minimal bezels and 144Hz refresh rate. The screen is touted to offer 3,840Hz high-frequency PWM dimming and unified DC dimming. Last week, Lei Jun, founder and CEO of Xiaomi, revealed that the Mix Fold 4 and Mix Flip will be launched this month. So, we can expect Xiaomi Flip to go official at the same event as the first clamshell-style foldable from the brand. Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 is expected to run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. It is tipped to feature a 50-megapixel primary rear camera. It could pack a 5,000mAh battery.

Apple HomePod Mini colour options, price in India, availability

The Apple HomePod Mini, priced at Rs. 10,900, has been introduced in a new color option named Midnight. According to Apple, this variant is made with 100 percent recycled mesh fabric. It will be available for sale in India, the US, and 30 other countries worldwide starting July 17.

The new Midnight colorway is similar to the Space Grey option that the HomePod Mini initially launched with. Following the unveiling of the new Midnight shade, the online listing of the speaker no longer displays the grey option, indicating that the new color may have replaced the grey one. In addition to the new Midnight shade, the Apple HomePod Mini is currently available in India in blue, orange, white, and yellow colorways.

Apple HomePod Mini specifications, features

The Apple HomePod Mini is powered by the Apple S5 chipset and an additional U1 chip to enable UWB support which allows it to track other Apple devices for media controls as well as interacting with other smart home devices. It also sports a touch-sensitive light-emitting panel on top which allows users to control the volume of the device. The HomePod Mini allows people to use the Intercom feature to send messages from one unit to another. It is compatible with an iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, as well as car speakers with the CarPlay function. The smart speaker is equipped with Siri but the requests to the voice assistant are not associated with an Apple ID. 

Amazon Prime Day 2024 Sale Deals Revealed

Amazon has already started to reveal some of the discounts of products including the Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless headphones, Boat Smart Ring, and Amazon Echo Pop, that will be available at lower prices during the sale. It’s worth noting that these products are already available at prices that are lower than their maximum retail price (MRP) on the e-commerce website, but customers who wait until the sale begins can avail of higher discounts on these products.

Dislike Button on X

According to a post on the microblogging platform by user @aaronp613, the ability to dislike posts could soon be introduced on the X app for the iOS platform. Code references have reportedly been discovered, hinting at a heartbroken emoji-style icon for dislikes, similar to the heart icon used for likes. Strings of text also appear in the app’s code, with phrases such as “Do you want to downvote this post?” and “Downvote this post.” However, it remains unclear if the downvote feature will be available for both posts and replies, as the code only mentions “posts.” X, formerly known as Twitter, first announced testing a downvotes feature on iOS in 2021 as part of a “small research experiment” that added upvote and downvote options for replies. The platform confirmed that downvotes were not public, while likes could be seen by everyone. This remained the case until a recent update made likes hidden.

Hidden Likes

In addition to a rumoured ‘dislikes’ feature, Elon Musk’s X recently made a decision to hide ‘likes’ from the platform. This means posts liked by a user won’t be visible on their profile under the likes tab. Consequently, the entire section has been removed. It is just one of the many changes introduced on the microblogging platform since Elon Musk’s takeover in 2022.

Honda City: Benefits of up to Rs 1.15 lakh

The Honda City currently presents attractive benefits of up to Rs 1.15 lakh for prospective buyers. Specifically, the top-spec Honda City ZX variant offers benefits of up to Rs 88,000, while lower variants come with benefits worth Rs 78,000. Notably, Honda recently implemented minor safety feature enhancements across the City lineup. In the updated lineup, Honda is extending benefits of up to Rs 58,000 for the V (available in both MT and CVT) and VX (MT only) variants. Furthermore, the Honda City Elegant edition, introduced last year, is available with a significant discount of Rs 1.15 lakh. This special edition boasts additional cosmetic enhancements such as a rear spoiler with an LED high-mount stop lamp. Under the hood, the Honda City is propelled by a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine generating 121hp and 145Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT gearbox. Competing in the midsize sedan segment, it faces rivals including the Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, and Maruti Suzuki Ciaz.

Honda Amaze Benefits up to Rs Rs 96,000

In May, Honda is offering attractive benefits on its Amaze lineup. The base-spec Amaze E variant comes with benefits of up to Rs 56,000, while the S and VX variants offer benefits of up to Rs 66,000. Notably, unsold stocks of the Honda Amaze Elite Edition, introduced in October 2023, are eligible for the highest discounts of Rs 96,000. The Elite edition boasts special enhancements including a trunk spoiler, decals, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Powering the Honda Amaze is a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 90hp and 110Nm of torque, coupled with either a 5-speed manual or a CVT gearbox. Despite recent accolades, with the Amaze scoring 2 stars in the latest round of GNCAP’s Safer Cars for India campaign, Honda is in the process of introducing a new Amaze model. Set to launch during this year’s festive season, the new Amaze will share its platform with the City and Elevate models, promising enhanced features and performance.

Honda City hybrid Benefits of up to Rs 65,000

Only the V variant of the Honday City hybrid is offered with benefits of up to Rs 65,000 in May 2024. The sedan is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine and two electric motors, both of which are mated to an e-CVT gearbox. The combined output is 126hp. 

Honda Elevate SUV Benefits up to Rs 55,000

Honda’s entrant into the midsize SUV space, the Elevate, is being offered with multiple benefits this month. The V variant is offered with benefits of up to Rs 55,000, while all other variants get discounts worth Rs 45,000. Only the top-spec ZX variant of the recently updated Elevate gets benefits of up to Rs 25,000. The Honda Elevate is available with the same 121hp, 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine as the City, which comes mated to a 6-speed manual, or an optional CVT automatic.

Externally, the i4 showcases subtle yet impactful updates, including a new matt chrome kidney grille and a refreshed rear diffuser in M Sport specification. The lighting units have been redesigned, offering a sharper appearance with single LED modules for both low and high beams. Inside, significant changes are evident, with BMW introducing a smaller gear selector and reshaped climate control air vents for a more minimalist aesthetic. The i4 features BMW’s iDrive 8.5 infotainment system and an updated steering wheel with illuminated buttons, with M Sport variants receiving a flat-bottomed design. Internationally, the i4 is available in three specifications: the entry-level i4 eDrive35 with 295hp and up to 500km of range, the mid-range i4 eDrive40 offering 340hp and a 600km range, and the range-topping i4 M50 xDrive delivering 544hp, 795Nm of torque, and a 520km range, capable of accelerating from 0-100kph in just 3.9 seconds.

BMW i4 facelift for India:

BMW India has not yet revealed when the i4 facelift will launch here, though it is likely to come to our shores. However, the outgoing i4 has been on sale since May 2022. Available only in mid-spec eDrive40 form, the i4 is currently priced at Rs 72.50 lakh ex-showroom, India. The all-electric sedan has no direct rivals in the country, for now.

New Delhi: In a recent development, Punjab and Haryana court’s scathing ruling against MGF, a company led by real estate tycoon Shravan Gupta, has unveiled a web of deceit, manipulation, and forum shopping in the demerger saga with Emaar. The incisive judgment by Honourable Justice Pankaj Jain has shed light on the underbelly of dirty tricks that MGF employed to subvert legitimate demerger procedures, raising significant concerns about the future of foreign joint ventures in India.

The court’s ruling comes in the wake of a contentious legal battle between MGF and Emaar, companies in the real estate sector. The case revolves around accusations of undervaluing assets and fraudulent practices during the demerger of Emaar MGF Land Limited (EMGF).

The court’s ruling includes a meticulous analysis of the allegations made in the complaint, concluding that the continuation of criminal proceedings against the accused would be an abuse of the court’s process. The court finds that the allegations regarding Mr. Shravan Gupta’s resignation and the communication from Emaar’s CEO are primarily civil in nature, involving contractual obligations rather than criminal elements.

The court also highlights MGF’s material concealment and forum shopping, referencing a similar Supreme Court case where costs were imposed on the complainant for misusing the legal system and concealing necessary facts.

The court’s orders include:

• Quashing the FIR registered against the present petitioners.

• Declaring the continuation of criminal proceedings as an abuse of the court’s process

The judge’s scathing remarks on the abuse of legal processes and potential criminal activities have significant implications for the ongoing investigations and the future of the companies involved. While this ruling is a significant victory for transparency and justice, it also serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges within the real estate sector.

In a recent court document dated 2019, it has come to light that Emaar Properties allegedly appointed JLL, a globally renowned top consultant, as an independent valuer in an arbitrary manner. The document suggests that there was a collaborative effort between Emaar Properties and JLL to manipulate reports related to demerged assets. This alleged conspiracy aimed to decrease the value of MGF’s land while inflating the value of Emaar Properties’ claim, thereby unjustly enriching both parties. These allegations have also put JLL’s reputation as a leading global consultant at stake.

Emaar Spokesperson said, “We wholeheartedly welcome the HC’s decision to dismiss the unsubstantiated allegations against Emaar India by our former partner. As a responsible corporate entity, Emaar India upholds the highest ethical standards of business conduct. These allegations were futile attempts to tarnish our reputation.”

Bentley Bentayga S Black Edition: Exterior highlights

The Bentayga S Black Edition marks a significant milestone for Bentley, being the first vehicle in 105 years to feature the iconic ‘Bentley Wings’ logo finished in black. This luxury SUV exudes exclusivity with its all-black exterior finish, including dark-tinted headlights and 22-inch alloys treated to a blacked-out aesthetic. Despite the monochromatic theme, buyers have the option to personalize their vehicles with one of seven contrasting accents: Mandarin, Signal Yellow, Klein Blue, Pillar Box Red, Ice, Hyper Green, or Beluga. These accents adorn various elements such as the front and rear bumpers, side skirts, rear spoiler, and brake calipers, adding a touch of individuality to the sleek design. Additionally, the Black Edition insignia positioned on the D-pillar serves as a subtle yet distinctive identifier of this exceptional model.

Bentley Bentayga S Black Edition: Interior highlights

The Bentayga S Black Edition boasts a meticulously crafted all-black interior, featuring premium Beluga leather-wrapped seats and contrasting accents adorning the seats, dashboard, doors, and center console. Bentley incorporates carbon fiber elements throughout the interior, complemented by the Dark Chrome pack, which lends a sleek dark finish to metallic surfaces, including air-con vents. Buyers have the option of three premium audio systems: the Bentley Signature system, a Bang & Olufsen setup, and the top-tier Naim system, renowned for its exceptional automotive sound quality.

Bentley Bentayga S Black Edition: Mileage and Powertrain

The mileage of Bentley Bentayga is 8.6 Kmpl. This is the claimed ARAI mileage for all the variants of Bentayga. In Automatic the claimed ARAI mileage of Bentayga Petrol is 8.6 Kmpl. While the mechanicals of the Black Edition are shared with the Bentayga S – from the rear-wheel steer and Dynamic Ride system to the 48V active roll control hardware and sport exhaust. However, the Bentayga S Black Edition is available with the 550hp, 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, and the 462hp, 3.0-litre V6 petrol-hybrid powertrain. The former unit is claimed to sprint from 0-100kph in 4.5 seconds, while the latter does the same in 5.3 seconds. One can choose to spec the Bentayga S Black Edition with the optional All-Terrain Specification, which adds four off-road modes – Snow and wet, Grass, Dirt and gravel, Mud and Trail – along with a 500mm water wading capability.