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ASUS Hosts Ahead of the Game Event during during Gamescom 2024

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ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) hosted an exclusive Ahead of the Game event during Gamescom 2024, where it launched a stellar lineup of the latest gaming products in the ASUS and ROG stables, including cross-series Advanced AI PC-ready AMD X870E / X870 motherboards, an upgraded AIO cooler, new gaming gear, two 26.5-inch QHD OLED gaming monitors, several WiFi 7 networking solutions, and two premium power supplies. These products are all designed to keep gamers one step ahead of their rivals on the performance curve.

The new X870E / X870 motherboards unlock the powerful AI capabilities of the new AMD Zen 5-based Ryzen™ 9000 Series processors. The comprehensive lineup includes models for every skill level, every project, and every budget: alongside the ROG Crosshair X870E Hero are the ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi, ROG Strix X870-F Gaming WiFi, the white ROG Strix X870-A Gaming WiFi, and the mini-ITX ROG Strix X870-I Gaming WiFi. Rounding off the lineup are the TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi, the Prime X870-P WiFi, and the ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi.

These innovations provide enhanced performance tuning, efficient cooling, better connectivity, and user-friendly installation. Integrated AI Overclocking in ROG, ROG Strix, TUF Gaming, and ProArt models optimize CPU performance by monitoring cooler efficiency and environmental changes. Dynamic OC Switcher and Core Flex on ROG, ROG Strix, TUF Gaming and ProArt models push Ryzen processors to peak performance across various workloads. NitroPath DRAM Technology — featured on the ROG Crosshair X870E Hero and ROG Strix X870E-E WiFi — optimizes DRAM signal pathways for better stability and overclocking, enhancing overall system performance. ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile (AEMP) is also supported across the range to optimize memory settings, and USB4®, PCIe 5.0® and WiFi 7 offer the latest I/O connectivity. Plus, a host of EZ PC DIY solutions enables the easiest builds ever.

AI Cooling II is available across all series for efficient airflow and quiet operation. AI Networking II offers features like GamesFirst (for ROG & ROG Strix), CreationFirst (for ProArt), optimizes network settings for gaming and content creation, and tools like Direction Finder, Fast Check, and Traffic Monitor — a new feature that helps users track and manage their WiFi channel use to optimize network performance. Combined with WiFi 7 and ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna, these motherboards provide seamless wireless connections.

ROG, ROG Strix and ProArt motherboards feature PCIe Slot Q-Release Slim, which eases GPU removal by eliminating fiddly latches and buttons. M.2 Q-Release and M.2 Q-Slide streamline SSD installation, while the new M.2 Q-Latch simplifies the process. The Q-Dashboard in the UEFI BIOS displays motherboard connectors and installed device information, adjusting more accessible.

AIO cooling: ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB Extreme

The ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB Extreme AIO CPU Cooler embodies the ROG ethos of pushing boundaries, significantly enhancing cooling efficiency, noise performance, and customization options. Upgraded to Asetek’s Emma Gen8 V2 Pump from the previous 8th Gen Asetek Pump, it still retains the embedded VRM fan to assist in cooling the motherboard’s VRMs. This setup optimizes performance and unlocks limitless overclocking potential for the latest AMD CPUs.

The new ROG Daisy-Chainable ARGB Fan allows for the seamless connection of three fans’ ARGB lighting and fan control with a single cable. These fans feature an efficient motor design and the thickness has been increased to 30 mm to ensure stable airflow and optimal noise performance.

Additionally, the ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB Extreme boasts an upgraded 3.5-inch LCD display, now with a 60 Hz refresh rate and a 640 x 480 resolution. Customizable via Armoury Crate, it can showcase vivid ROG wallpapers, personalized content, or real-time system information.

Gaming gear: Essential peripherals for the winning edge

At the event, a new collection of gaming keyboards, gaming mice and a gaming headset was unveiled, designed for maximum comfort, maximum performance and maximum gaming advantage.

The ROG Falchion Ace HFX analog gaming keyboard has a compact 65% layout in a 60% frame that masterfully incorporates arrow and navigation keys. It features premium ROG HFX Magnetic Switches for a solid feel and customizable actuation from 0.1 to 4.0 mm, ensuring instant keystrokes. With the Rapid Trigger toggle, users can conveniently achieve the fastest typing response and key repeat. Moreover, the Speed Tap mode can prioritize the last input and automatically release the previous one to eliminate any time gap for counter-strafing and ensure precise aiming, especially in FPS games. The keyboard boasts an 8000 Hz polling rate, delivering a 0.125 ms response time — up to eight times faster than competitors’ gaming keyboards. Enhanced typing experiences are ensured with integrated five-layer dampening and a silicone gasket mount design, which absorb pinging noises and provide a cushioned typing feel. Intuitive control is facilitated by a multi-function button and interactive touch panel, allowing users to set the actuation point, play/pause media, and adjust volume and keyboard lighting. The dual USB-C® ports offer flexible port placement for a tidier setup and enable quick toggling between two PCs. Additionally, the bundled keyboard cover keeps dust away from the keyboard when not in use.

TheROG Strix Scope II 96 RX Wirelessgaming keyboard features a 96% layout that retains all function and number keys in an efficient form factor, only 1 cm wider than a standard TKL keyboard, optimizing desk space. It uses pre-lubed ROG RX optical switches for consistent, wobble-free keystrokes with near-zero debounce delay. The keyboard includes additional UV-coated ABS keycaps with ROG-themed elements for a unique look and supports the ROG Polling Rate Booster[i], achieving an 8000 Hz polling rate for a 0.125 ms response time. The tri-mode connection allows for connecting up to three Bluetooth® devices, 2.4 GHz wireless with ROG SpeedNova technology, or wired USB. Sound-dampening foam absorbs pinging noises for improved acoustics. Hotkeys for Xbox Game Bar and recording, intuitive controls with a multi-function button and multi-wheel, and ergonomic design with three tilt positions and a detachable wrist rest complete the package.

The new ROG Harpe Ace Mini gaming mouse inherits the design DNA of the standard Harpe Ace, offering a offering a smaller, semi-symmetrical form factor to accommodate a wider range of hand sizes and grip styles. It also features a smooth, matte finish that provides a premium look: even during intense gaming sessions, the coating effectively handles sweat and grease, ensuring both grip and control. Weighing just 49 grams, it’s crafted from innovative bio-based nylon material. The mouse displays unrivaled performance with the 42,000 dpi ROG AimPoint Pro optical sensor, boasting track-on-glass technology to ensure that tracking stays precise and consistent on almost all surfaces. The ROG Optical Micro Switch provides instant actuation and a lifespan of 100 million clicks. ROG SpeedNova wireless technology is optimized and primed to achieve maxed-out speed and reliability in even the most demanding wireless environments, making it a solution trusted by esports players. Compatible with the ROG Polling Rate Booster (sold separately), the mouse can achieve up to a true 8000 Hz report rate in wireless and wired modes. Additional features include the ROG Omni Receiver for simultaneous connectivity with a mouse and keyboard, 100% PTFE mouse feet set, ROG mouse grip tape, and onboard control for adjusting settings directly via mouse button combinations.

A new Moonlight White version of the ROG Strix Impact III Wireless gaming mouse was also revealed, featuring dual wireless connectivity with ultrafast 2.4 GHz RF, and Bluetooth pairing for up to three devices. The mouse offers superior battery life, lasting up to 618 hours on Bluetooth and 450 hours on 2.4 GHz RF. Its Push-Fit Switch Sockets allow swapping mechanical switches to vary click force.

The new ROG Pelta Gaming Headset is a versatile tri-mode headset designed for all gamers. Featuring a brand-new oval earcup design — with intuitive earcup-mounted controls for easy settings adjustments while playing — the lightweight 309 g headset includes a three-level adjustable elastic fabric headband with breathable fabric to reduce pressure, making it ideal for long gaming sessions. The headset connects via Bluetooth, ultra-low latency 2.4 GHz RF with ROG SpeedNova wireless technology, and a USB-C wired connection. The headset is also compatible with multiple platforms, including PCs, Macs, Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation® 4 & 5, and mobile devices. It boasts 50 mm ROG Titanium-Plated Diaphragm Drivers for rich, detailed sound across a wide 20 Hz–20 kHz frequency range, and a 10 mm super-wideband boom microphone for clear, detailed voice communication even during intense comms sessions. With up to 60 hours of battery life[ii] in 2.4 GHz mode and a quick 15-minute charge providing up to 3 hours of use, gamers don’t need to worry about battery life even in competitive gameplay.

A new ROG peripherals ambassador

At the Gamescom 2024 event, ROG also announced that Demon1 (Max Mazanov) winner of VALORANT Champions 2023, will be the new ROG peripherals ambassador. Demon1, recognized as one of the brightest talents with his breakthrough performances during VCT 2023: Tokyo Maters and VALORANT Champions 2023, is now a part of Team ROG, and will be equipped with a full suite of ROG gaming peripherals. Demon1 will also be testing new ROG peripherals and offering feedback on their design and features. “Having Demon1 on Team ROG is valuable to the development of our products,” said Kris Huang, General Manager of ASUS Gaming Gear and Accessory Business Unit. “His professional insights and feedback help drive us at ROG to continue creating top-tier products that embody the core values the gaming community seeks.”

“I’m thrilled to be the product ambassador for ASUS ROG peripherals,” said Max “Demon1” Mazanov. “In esports, we’re constantly striving to improve and tackle tougher challenges daily, so it’s great to partner with a brand that shares the same dedicating in delivering the best gear for competitive players like myself. This commitment makes them the perfect fit for my journey in esports.”

Displays: Two choices for unprecedented refresh rates

Two groundbreaking 26.5-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) OLED gaming monitors were announced at the ROG event, putting unprecedented refresh rates within the reach of gamers for ultra-smooth and immersive gaming, along with a choice between anti-glare and glossy panels. The ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDP is the world’s first 1440P 480Hz OLED monitor, featuring a 26.5-inch display with an anti-glare surface, along with DisplayPort™ 1.4 (DSC) and HDMI® 2.1 connectivity. It includes ROG AI Assistant technology, including AI Shadow Boost, AI Crosshair, AI Visual, AI Sniper, and MOBA Map Helper, to enhance gaming experiences. The ROG Strix OLED XG27ACDNG is a 26.5-inch 360 Hz QD-OLED gaming monitor with an anti-reflection panel, equipped with DisplayPort 1.4 (DSC), HDMI 2.1 and USB-C with 90 W Power Delivery. In addition to their ultrafast refresh rates, both models offer a 0.03 ms GTG response time, ensuring ultra-smooth and fast visuals.

In addition to a three-year warranty, both monitors feature new OLED Care+, providing more advanced adjustable OLED settings for end users including Taskbar detection, Outer dimming control, and Global dimming control to protect the OLED panel. Furthermore, the monitors come equipped with the DisplayWidget Center for easy adjustment of OLED and new AI Visual settings. Plus, it allows users to adjust settings without using OSD menu, create custom profiles and keyboard shortcuts for quick access to your favorite setting, and optimize your display for different content. With App Tweaker, users can define display modes for specific applications.

ROG-exclusive OLED Anti-flicker technology minimizes flicker during refresh-rate fluctuations, and the Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology provides crisper and clearer motion in fast-paced games. Both monitors also allow gamers to adjust brightness, color temperature and more in HDR mode.

Networking: Beyond fast

ASUS also announced several WiFi 7 products to elevate online or cloud gaming experiences with blazing fast speeds and extremely low latency.

The ROG Rapture GT-BE19000 gaming router features ultrafast WiFi 7 with 320MHz channels in the 6 GHz band and 4096-QAM to increase network capacity and throughput, delivering speeds up to 19 Gbps. It offers versatile WAN options, including AI WAN detection on its 2.5G or 10G Ethernet ports, and supports 4G LTE and 5G mobile tethering via USB. With Guest Network Pro, users can easily manage up to five SSIDs, set up IoT devices, and configure VPNs and parental controls. Guest Network Pro technology also includes a Gaming Network setting tailored for next-gen experiences that combines all gaming features into a single SSID and VLAN. Gamers can also take advantage of Triple-Level Game Acceleration, which prioritizes game data packets for an enhanced experience all the way from the gaming device to the game server, while AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro™, ensures robust security.

The ASUS RT-BE86U router, featuring cutting-edge WiFi 7, provides dual-band throughput up to 6800 Mbps with Multi-link Operation and 4096-QAM. It includes one 10G and four 2.5G Ethernet ports for combined wired speeds up to 20 Gbps and versatile WAN options, including AI WAN detection and 4G LTE/5G mobile tethering. The powerful quad-core 2.6 GHz CPU, with a remarkable 30% efficiency boost[iii], supports demanding applications. With Guest Network Pro, AiProtection Pro and VPN for robust security, this router offers comprehensive features and seamless connectivity that is powered by MLO, delivering a robust backhaul connection for an extendable whole-home network.

For adding WiFi 7 client connectivity to existing PCs or laptops, the ROG USB-BE92 USB adapter offers ultrafast WiFi 7 speeds up to 6,500 Mbps and is compatible with all standard WiFi networks. It features a powerful 6 GHz band for less congestion and interference, delivering 3.6 times faster performance than WiFi 6 clients. Enhanced security is provided through WPA3 support, and its plug-and-play design ensures broad compatibility with Windows 10/11, supporting both USB Type-A and USB 3.2 Gen 1×1 Type-C connections for effortless integration.

 

Power supplies: Setting the standard

Two recently-announced PSUs were also showcased at the event, highlighting the comprehensive top-to-bottom coverage of the company’s gaming offerings.

The ROG Thor 1200W Platinum III features a GaN MOSFET for high efficiency and a magnetic OLED display for real-time power monitoring that’s visible in either fan-up or fan-down installations. It includes our GPU-First voltage sensing and patented intelligent voltage stabilizer for stable performance, TURBO Mode for overclocking, superior cooling with ROG heatsinks, and a 10-year warranty[iv]. The PSU is also PCIe 5.0-ready, ATX 3.1 compliant and 80 PLUS Platinum certified.

The ROG Strix 1000W Platinum model features a GaN MOSFET for superior efficiency, a patented GPU-First voltage stabilizer for stable performance, and large ROG heatsinks for reduced temperatures and noise. It includes dual ball fan bearings for durability, 0dB technology for quiet operation, and is ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.0 ready. 80 PLUS Platinum certified, with a 10-year warranty.

vivo V40 Series hits markets

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vivo, expanded its much-loved V series portfolio in India with the V40 series. Comprising the V40 and V40 Pro, the vivo V40 series continues the V series legacy and introduces innovations in terms of design, camera, and durability. The V40 series is equipped with ZEISS co-engineered imaging systems and is set to deliver the best-in-class smartphone imaging experience.

With the V40 and V40 Pro, vivo is extending its long-standing global imaging partnership with ZEISS to the V series. The series now brings pro-level camera features such as ZEISS Multifocal Portrait, ZEISS Style Portrait and ZEISS Telephoto portrait camera. vivo has also introduced the innovative Festival Portrait Mode along with the Wedding Style portrait tuned for Indian users.

At 0.758 cm (7.58mm), the V40 and V40 Pro are India’s slimmest smartphones in the 5500mAh battery category1. vivo has also introduced a suite of AI Portrait tools like AI Eraser, AI Photo Enhancer, and AI Group Portrait, among other tools. Additionally, to meet the consumers’ demands of having a robust and durable smartphone, the vivo V40 series comes with IP68 dust and water resistance, enabling these smartphones to withstand challenging environments.

Along with the V40 series, vivo has also introduced its latest vivo TWS 3e with ANC with a long lasting battery life, ensuring that users get an immersive experience. The TWS 3e flaunts a light, fashionable, in-ear design and supports AI call noise reduction.

The new vivo V40 series and TWS 3e will be available in the following colors:

  • The vivo V40 Pro, going on sale from August 13, will come in two color options – Blue and Grey, priced at INR 49,999 for the 8GB + 256GB variant, and INR 55,999 for the 12GB + 512GB variant. 
  • The vivo V40 will be available in three color options – Ganges Blue, Lotus Purple, and Titanium Grey, and will be priced at INR 34,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant, INR 36,999 for the 8GB+256GB variant, and INR 41,999 for the 12GB + 512GB variant. It will go on sale starting August 19. 
  • Consumers can pre-book the V40 series starting today across vivo exclusive stores and partner stores 
  • TWS 3e will be available in two colors – Bright White and Dark Indigo, and will be priced at INR 1,899 with sale starting today

Offline offers

  • 6 months of free accidental and liquid damage along with flat 10% instant cashback 
  • 12 months zero down payment 
  • Up to 40% off on vivo V-Shield and up to 10% Exchange bonus as part of vivo upgrade programme with SBI, HDFC, Kotak Mahindra, and IDFC First Bank among other partners

Online offers

  • 6 months of free accidental and liquid damage along with flat 10% instant cashback 
  • Flat 10% exchange bonus along with up to 6 months no-cost EMI 

Consumers can purchase the vivo V40 series and TWS 3e across Flipkart, vivo India e-store, and all partner retail stores.

Commenting on the launch, Geetaj Channana, Head Corporate Strategy, vivo India said, “We are proud to unveil the all-new vivo V40 series in India, marking a significant milestone in our V series journey. This launch underscores our commitment to innovation, delivering smartphones that cater to the dynamic market needs. With ZEISS co-engineered imaging system, sleek design, and robust durability, we are confident that the V40 series will be a valuable addition to our product lineup and resonate well with our customers”.

By extending its collaboration with ZEISS in both the V40 Pro and V40, vivo empowers consumers to capture even the most challenging scenarios with remarkable precision and clarity, whether at long range or close focus. The vivo V40 Pro houses a triple camera setup, and the V40 comes with dual camera setup. Both smartphones feature a 50MP ZEISS OIS Main Camera (Sony IMX921 on the vivo V40 Pro), and a 50MP ZEISS Ultra Wide-Angle Camera. On the V40 Pro, users also get a 50 MP ZEISS Telephoto Portrait Camera and 50X Digital. Co-engineered to achieve superior camera lenses, the vivo V40 Pro also offers seven distinct portrait styles. The smartphones also come with a 50MP ZEISS Group Selfie Camera, meeting ZEISS Optics Standards, ensuring that users are able to capture all their moments perfectly. It offers an enhanced user experience for diverse shooting conditions, whether distant or close, bright or dark. The camera also supports wide-angle shots with a 92° field of view (FOV).

Both smartphones come equipped with ZEISS Multifocal Portrait, supporting professional portrait modes. The vivo V40 Pro supports five golden focal lengths for portraits and combines each with the ZEISS Style Portrait Bokehs, allowing consumers to take professional portraits with focal lengths up to 100 mm. Both smartphones also come with the ZEISS Cinematic Portrait Video feature that lets the camera auto-shift focus seamlessly to follow the subject and deliver professional camera movement effects. Both smartphones feature vivo’s exclusive Studio-Quality Aura Light Portrait technology, which uses electronically controlled dimming to optimize lighting brightness for portraits. This advanced technology enhances brightness, clarity, and color accuracy in low-light and night conditions by delivering three times the brightness at the commonly used 2x focal length for portraits compared to the previous generation.

vivo V40 series delivers uncompromising performance with immersive displays and dual stereo speakers. The V40 Pro smartphone is powered by the highly acclaimed Mediatek Dimensity 9200+ SoC chipset. The flagship processor is set to provide faster overall performance, an enhanced gaming experience, and a faster camera experience. On the other hand, the V40 smartphone runs on the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor ensuring faster performance, enhanced gaming experience and better camera performance.

The V40 series packs a 1.5K ultra-clear AMOLED display with a 3D curved display offering an immersive, detailed visual experience. Its peak local brightness of 4500 nits is  60.7% higher than the previous generation, ensuring clear visibility even in bright sunlight.

To ensure durability, the V40 series comes with IP68 Dust and Water resistance, making it suitable for use in challenging environments and adverse weather conditions. Additionally both the smartphones offer Drop Resistance Structure that comes with enhanced physical protection with a comprehensive cushioning structure, boosting safety for internal and external components. It includes high-performance SCHOTT Xensation® α Cover Glass, a metal bezel around the back camera bump, customized aluminum alloy in the four corners, and reinforced middle  frame for added durability.

To further enhance the capabilities of the V40 series, vivo has included a suite of AI tools which improve camera performance and overall user experience. Tools such as the AI Eraser help users remove unwanted elements in their photographs, AI Photo Enhancer automatically perfects your photos by enhancing the sharpness, and AI Group Portrait ensures everyone looks their best. Additionally, AI Superlink optimises performance and intelligently manages your network connection, keeping your device running smoothly and efficiently.

Acer Introduces New Chromebook laptops 

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Acer, launched its latest Chromebook plus models, the Acer Chromebook Plus 14 and 15 laptops. These advanced laptops are specifically designed to cater to the demands of the Enterprise and education sector. The all-new Chromebook Plus with the latest built-in Google Gemini AI features offering robust performance, enhanced productivity features, and a sleek, professional design. The Chromebook Plus 14 offers a 14-inch Full HD IPS display with options for high-brightness Acer ComfyView™ LED-backlit TFT LCD or an integrated multi-touch version. The Acer Chromebook Plus 15 features a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with Acer ComfyView™ technology, available in standard and high-brightness touch variants. Acer Chromebook Plus offers built-in Google apps and powerful AI capabilities. It also offers Google Photos Magic Eraser, File Sync, Wallpaper generation, AI-created video backgrounds, and Adobe Photoshop on the web to help consumers boost their productivity, inspire their creativity, and make everyday tasks intuitive. It’s a laptop experience that optimizes hardware performance with software apps and tools.

Powered by a range of Powerful Intel® & AMD® processor variants, these Chromebooks ensure robust performance for multitasking and running demanding applications. The Chromebook Plus 14 has two variants. One with Intel® Core™ i3-N305 processor and another with AMD® Ryzen® 7000 Series Processor, while the Chromebook Plus 15 offers Up to Intel® 13th Gen Core™ i7-1355U processor. All the models support Upto 16GB LPDDR5X SDRAM and Storage up to 512 GB PCIe NVMe SSD, ensuring fast data access and ample space for important files and applications.

Google® AI-powered writing assistance and generative, custom wallpapers and AI backgrounds for video calls make the Chromebook Plus the most preferred device for the professional. All Chromebook plus models feature Dual DTS® Speakers, optimized bass, and treble response. It is also equipped with two built-in microphones and a high-definition Full HD webcam with features such as Temporal Noise Reduction, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and support for 1080p video at 60 fps, ensuring clear video conferencing and online interactions.

Sudhir Goel, Chief Business Officer at Acer India, stated, “We are excited to launch the new Chromebook Plus laptops in India. These models represent our commitment to providing cutting-edge technology and reliable performance. With powerful Intel® & AMD® processors, vibrant displays, Powerful AI capabilities, and robust security features, we believe these Chromebooks will significantly enhance productivity and learning experiences. Our goal is to offer solutions that empower professionals and students to achieve more, and the Chromebook Plus 14 and 15 embody this vision perfectly.”

All Acer Chromebook Plus models support the Latest Wireless Wi-Fi 6E, providing fast and stable wireless connectivity, and Bluetooth® 5.3 for seamless pairing with peripherals and accessories. All models are equipped with a discrete H1 Trusted Platform Module (TPM) solution, camera shutters for privacy, and Kensington lock slots for physical security.

Designed for durability and reliability, these Chromebooks have undergone rigorous military-grade reliability tests, including mechanical shock, transit drop, vibration, and resistance to sand, dust, humidity, and extreme temperatures. The robust construction ensures that the laptops can withstand the rigors of daily use in various environments. All models feature a 53 Wh 3-cell Li-ion battery that supports fast charging technology. The Chromebook Plus 14 can last up to 11 hours on a single charge, while the Chromebook Plus 15 offers up to 10 hours of battery life, making them perfect for all-day use without frequent recharging.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

Acer Chromebook Plus 14 & 15 starting price at Rs. 35990. The laptop will be available in Acer exclusive stores, Acer online store, Amazon, Croma, Flipkart, Vijay Sales, and other multi-brand outlets.

Garmin Smartwatches and Lexar JumpDrive® F35 USB 3.0 hits markets

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Lily

Lily is a lightweight and stylish smartwatch from Garmin that is specifically designed for women, featuring a sleek 34 mm case and a distinctive patterned lens. This cutting-edge watch offers a vibrant touchscreen display that’s accessible with a simple tap or wrist twist. Choose from a range of classic and sporty designs with options for metal, leather, and silicone bands. Track your body’s energy levels, heart rate, and stress, with alerts for abnormal heart rates and relaxation reminders. The Garmin Connect app enhances functionality by allowing the users to monitor their menstrual cycle, log fluid intake, set hydration goals, and track your progress. The Garmin Lily is priced at INR 27,990/ in India and an apt gift where style meets functionality.

Vivoactive 5

The Garmin Vívoactive 5 is an affordable smartwatch featuring a bright AMOLED touchscreen, designed to integrate seamlessly into daily life. It offers a wide range of health monitoring features, helping users understand their bodies, stay active, and achieve fitness goals. With up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, users can enjoy continuous health tracking without frequent recharges.

The Vívoactive 5 supports features tailored for wheelchair users, including tracking workouts in wheelchair mode. It evaluates overall health through heart rate variability (HRV) during sleep and offers guided meditation to help reduce stress. Priced at INR 33,490 and available in five colors, the Garmin Vívoactive 5 is a practical and thoughtful gift for those committed to an active lifestyle.

Venu 3

The Garmin Venu 3 is an advanced smartwatch packed with features to support fitness enthusiasts. It offers detailed insights across more than 30 sports profiles on a vibrant AMOLED touchscreen. With a battery life of up to 14 days in smartwatch mode, the Venu 3 ensures continuous health monitoring and seamless connectivity.

This smartwatch caters to a wide range of users, including those who use wheelchairs, by providing specialized tracking for wheelchair pushes and workouts. It monitors daily steps, calories burned, and floors climbed, and includes a built-in speaker and microphone for phone calls and text messages. The Venu 3 also offers comprehensive health monitoring, including stress levels, Body Battery™, and sleep patterns, enhanced with personalized sleep coaching and nap detection. Priced at INR 50,490 and available in eight colors, the Garmin Venu 3 is an excellent choice for anyone dedicated to their health and well-being.

Lexar JumpDrive® F35 USB 3.0

The Lexar JumpDrive® F35 USB 3.0 is a standout gift to sisters for rakshabandhan. This fingerprint-enabled pendrive boasts up to 3000 MB/s sequential read performance, making it a top choice in the Indian market where fingerprint-enabled pendrives are limited. With its 256-bit AES encryption, the Lexar F35 ensures your data remains secure while providing quick access through fingerprint authentication. It supports up to ten unique fingerprints, protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access. Available in capacities of 32GB and 64GB, with read speeds of up to 150MB/s or 300MB/s, the JumpDrive is priced at Rs. 4500 and Rs. 6000 respectively. It’s available at leading online and offline retailers. Amazon Link

Sony’s BRAVIA 8 OLED television series hits markets

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Sony India announced the BRAVIA 8 Series. This new series combines state-of-the-art OLED technology with the advanced AI Processor XR to deliver unmatched picture quality and lifelike audio experiences. Designed to cater to the modern viewer, the BRAVIA 8 Series offers perfect blacks, precise shadow details and dynamic contrast, all while enhancing sound with Acoustic Surface Audio+ and Dolby Vision Atmos and various Studio Calibrated modes developed in collaboration with the leading streaming services.

BRAVIA 8 series is equipped with Studio Calibrated mode that reproduce the image quality intended by film content creators in a home setting. In addition to the existing established Netflix Adaptive Calibrated Mode and SONY PICTURES CORE (formerly BRAVIA CORE) Calibrated Mode, Prime Video Calibrated Mode is a new mode designed to provide customers with even more ways to experience premium entertainment through the lens of the creator.  

The new BRAVIA 8 series will be available in 164 cm (65) and 139 cm (55) screen size. The advanced AI Processor XR in BRAVIA 8 series revolutionizes viewing with its ability to understand human perception of sight and sound. By analyzing and processing data like a human would, it delivers more natural and lifelike images and sound. OLED technology in the BRAVIA 8 Series delivers unparalleled picture quality with perfect blacks, accurate shadow details, and superior contrast. BRAVIA 8 series includes XR 4K Upscaling technology, powered by our Cognitive Processor XR, this television takes 2K signals close to true 4K quality for incredibly real, detailed, and immersive viewing. Complementing this is the XR OLED Motion technology, which keeps fast-moving scenes smooth and blur-free.

The BRAVIA 8 series supports advanced audio and visual technologies such as Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Dolby Vision provides vibrant visuals with exceptional contrast, while Dolby Atmos delivers multi-dimensional sound, making you feel like part of the action.

The BRAVIA 8 Series features SONY PICTURES CORE, a unique platform that provides access to a vast library of Sony Pictures movies. The platform also includes 4K HDR and IMAX enhanced movies, offering an elevated movie-watching experience with superior picture and sound quality. For 24 months, receive 10 FREE credits to stream movies in 4K Blu-ray quality with IMAX Enhanced visuals to elevate your home entertainment experience and bringing the magic of the big screen to your living room.

The BRAVIA 8 series is optimized for gaming and is perfect for PlayStation 5. It features Auto HDR Tone Mapping, which automatically adjusts HDR settings for the best picture quality. With 4K/120fps, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), our TVs give you smooth and clear movement for responsive gameplay.  The BRAVIA 8 series offers a smart user experience powered by Google TV, providing access to 400,000 movies and TV episodes, plus 10,000 apps and games. Google TV organizes all your favorite content in one place, making it easy to find and watch what you love. Voice search functionality allows for hands-free control, and integration with Apple AirPlay2 and HomeKit ensures seamless connectivity with your Apple devices.

Price and Availability:

ModelBest Buy (in INR)Availability Date
K-65XR80314,990/-Available now
K-55XR80219,990/-Available now

These models will be available across all Sony Centers, major electronic stores, and e-commerce portals in India. Sony is also offering a comprehensive two-year warranty on the BRAVIA 8 series.