• Qualcomm expands its AI ecosystem with developers

Launched AI Hub to support developers: Qualcomm’s AI Hub has a library of 75+ AI models for easy deployment on Snapdragon platforms, which will reduce time to market and ensure seamless integration for a wide range of applications covering mobiles, PC, Automotive, and Infrastructure. These models are available on Qualcomm AI Hub, Hugging Face, and GitHub deployed by developers with a single line of code. Next-generation baseband with 5G Advanced and AI accelerators: Qualcomm launched the latest Snapdragon® X80 5G Modem-RF System with 5G-Advanced capabilities and is the first modem with fully integrated NB-NTN satellite communications support. Qualcomm has the most advanced 5G basebands with AI baked in. X80 included a dedicated Tensor AI accelerator that improves throughput, quality of service (QoS), coverage, latency, spectrum efficiency, power efficiency, and mmWave beam management. Intelligent Wi-Fi 7 solutions: Qualcomm launched its FastConnect 7900 to deliver AI-optimized performance and integrate Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth, and Ultra-Wideband technologies into a single chip. According to Counterpoint’s Wi-Fi devices shipment forecast research, more than 7 billion 5G and Wi-Fi 7-based devices will be shipped cumulatively over the next five years, unlocking significant opportunities for key stakeholders to provide new and more powerful connected experiences.

• HMD to release a Barbie-themed flip phone: A nostalgic digital detox

HMD teased its upcoming products at MWC 2024, which include a Barbie-themed feature phone, the comeback of an iconic Nokia-branded phone, and new HMD-branded smartphones. However, HMD did not reveal detailed specifications, prices, or full product pictures but shared a glimpse into what’s to come in 2024. The products will be rolled out one by one in mid-2024. HMD has collaborated with Mattel to release a Barbie-themed flip phone, aiming to offer a stylish accessory that also serves as a nod to nostalgia. This traditional feature phone is expected to come in the iconic Barbie pink color scheme. HMD is marketing this phone as a means for a digital detox, which could capture consumers who are seeking a break from the constant connectivity of digital life. This phone could be a secondary phone rather than a replacement for a smartphone, and its unique positioning might attract consumers looking for a simple, functional phone that stands out as a fashion accessory. The phone is expected to be launched in the summer of 2024. HMD will be releasing an iconic Nokia-branded phone and two HMD-branded smartphones with its continuous commitment to sustainability and making repairability easier for everyone. HMD aims to extend the lifespan of phones, allowing users to keep them for longer periods. This will help global efforts to reduce electronic waste and promote environmental responsibility.

• HONOR is integrating AI capabilities into its ecosystem

HONOR introduced smartphones, PCs, and tablets with AI capabilities. HONOR is committing to integrating AI into its wide range of products. HONOR has globally released its flagship smartphone, the Magic6 Pro, and the world’s thinnest foldable smartphone with Porsche design, the Magic V2 RSR. The HONOR Magic6 Pro will be available in Black and Epi Green color schemes, with a starting price of €1,299 (nearly $1,409). The Magic V2 RSR is available in Agate Grey, with prices starting at €2,699 (nearly $2,927). The HONOR Magic6 Pro is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and runs on MagicOS 8.0, aiming to further showcase its AI capabilities. The smartphone comes with on-device AI with Llama 2. The Magic Capsule offers a more interactive way to handle smartphone notifications, while the Magic Portal facilitates AI features and offers contextual functions based on AI, such as capturing text from images and image-based shopping. The Magic 6 Pro smartphone is equipped with a 50MP main camera with variable apertures, a 50MP ultra-wide camera, and a 180MP telephoto lens. Additionally, the smartphone is equipped with HONOR’s new Falcon Camera System, which enables faster shutter speeds and clearer pictures. HONOR MagicBook Pro 16: HONOR has also announced its first AI-capable laptop, the MagicBook Pro 16. The laptop is designed to offer enhanced interconnectivity with other HONOR devices, which will help the company expand its ecosystem. The inclusion of a 3K resolution LCD panel with a 165Hz refresh rate, combined with the power of Intel’s Core i7 Ultra processor, suggests that this laptop could be well-suited for high-performance users. HONOR Pad 9: HONOR Pad 9’s global release adds to the company’s impressive lineup of devices. Its 12.1-inch display with 2.5K resolution and 102Hz refresh rate, coupled with eight speakers, promises an engaging multimedia experience. The tablet is priced at €349 (nearly $379) and is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor which provides reliable performance for mid-range users.

• Xiaomi 14 Series, Pad 6S, Watch 2, Watch S3, Smart Band 8 Pro and SU7

Xiaomi has unveiled the Xiaomi 14 series, the brand’s new flagship smartphone lineup with a focus on the camera. The series, which includes the Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Ultra, is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 coupling with advanced cooling technology. The Xiaomi 14, with its HyperOS interface based on Android 14, has a 6.36-inch LTPO AMOLED display, 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, which is designed to deliver a high-end user experience. The Leica-branded triple rear camera setup with three 50-MP sensors and a 32MP in-display front camera suggests a strong emphasis on photography and videography. The 4610mAh battery with 90W and 50W wireless charging ensures the smooth functioning of the device. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s claim of featuring the most robust frame and display made using the toughest materials, positions it as a durable and premium device. The AI-driven features in HyperOS, such as AI subtitles, AI portrait generation, and AI expansion in the Gallery app, highlight Xiaomi’s commitment to integrating AI into the user experience. Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro: Xiaomi has introduced its next flagship tablet, the Pad 6S Pro, which features a 12.4-inch 3:2 aspect ratio display with 144Hz refresh rate, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 engine, and up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage. The all-metal slate boasts six speakers with Dolby Atmos compatibility and four microphones. The device is available in black, blue or green. Xiaomi Watch 2: The Xiaomi Watch 2 is crafted with an aluminum body and delivers an elegant front. The watch is rated 5 ATM for water resistance, making it a reliable companion for swimming and other water-related activities. Its 1.43” AMOLED display, boasting a resolution of 466 x 466px, ensures that users are treated to crisp and vibrant visuals, enhancing the user experience significantly. Xiaomi Watch S3: Although the Xiaomi Watch S3 looks similar to the Watch 2, it uses a different operating system. It runs on Xiaomi's proprietary IoT HyperOS platform, which means users will not be able to download apps. The Watch S3 makes up for it with a 1.43-inch AMOLED display housed within an aluminum body, as well as a unique feature – a swappable stainless-steel bezel for customizable aesthetics. The Watch S3 is priced at €149, which is slightly lower than the Watch 2. Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro: The Band 8 Pro is the latest addition to Xiaomi’s popular fitness band series. It has a large 1.74-inch AMOLED display with higher resolution, which makes it easier to view data and navigate menus. The Band 8 Pro retains its 5 ATM water resistance rating and offers an impressive 14 days of battery life on a single charge. Xiaomi SU7: Xiaomi has made a daring leap of faith by aggressively investing in the SU7 sedan, a powerful electric car. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Auto connection platform now includes QCA6797AQ, the automotive industry’s first Wi-Fi 7 access point solution. The standard 73.6 kWh battery promises a range of 668 km on a single charge. The higher-end 101 kWh battery can deliver up to 800 km. Xiaomi emphasizes that mobility is a critical component of its unified software platform. Xiaomi said that the SU7 will play in the luxury class.

• MediaTek launches 5G RedCap platform

MediaTek has launched the T300 platform which is aimed at IoT applications geared towards 5G RedCap. It is a System-on-a-Chip (SoC) powered by a M60 modem, which supports 3GPP Release 17. It will enable low power capabilities and also reduce the developing cost and time to market for 5G RedCap devices. 5G RedCap promises a mix of capabilities including improved throughput, extended battery life, and less complexity to power diverse use cases cost-effectively. According to Counterpoint, 5G RedCap (including eRedCap) modules are expected to contribute to one-fourth of total cellular IoT module shipments by 2030.