This week in tech saw quite a lot happen with new smartphone launches, announcements, and even the comeback of brands that seemed to be forgotten. Starting with Nothing Phone (2a), the device has been officially confirmed by the brand. RBI also imposed strict orders on Paytm Payments Bank barring the platform from offering key services.
Realme launched the 12 Pro series in India, while Motorola unveiled a budget phone. HMD Global also revamped its identity teasing new ‘HMD Originals’ while assuring that Nokia phones aren’t going anywhere.
Nothing Phone (2a) India launch confirmed
Nothing has officially announced the launch of its new smartphone, the Phone (2a). The announcement comes amid reports and leaks about the Nothing Phone (2a). This would be a more affordable version of the Nothing Phone (2). The brand didn’t reveal much but it said that Phone (2a) will come with the most loved features of the Phone (2). The launch date isn’t out yet but Nothing Phone (2a) is expected to debut at MWC 2024 later this month.
RBI imposes restrictions on Paytm Payments Bank
The Reserve Bank of India announced major restrictions on Paytm Payments Bank barring it from offering key banking services to customers. Starting February 29th, Paytm Payments Bank will no longer be able to offer credit transactions, deposits, fund transfer, and other key services to customers. Paytm Payments Bank customers have time until February 29th to use their existing balance.
Realme 12 Pro, Realme 12 Pro+ launched in India
Realme 12 Pro and Realme 12 Pro+ launched as the brand’s first numbered series to come with a periscope telephoto camera. Realme 12 Pro has a starting price of Rs 25,999, and it has a 120Hz display, the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC, 8GB of RAM and a 50MP Sony IMX882 primary camera. Realme 12 Pro+ starts at Rs 29,999, and it comes with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, up to 12GB of RAM, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging support.
HMD revamps website, removes Nokia branding
HMD in a surprising move renamed its website and social media accounts from Nokia to HMD. This doesn’t mean the end of Nokia phones as the brand will continue launching new Nokia phones. It will also offer new ‘HMD Originals’, which could be tablets, smartphones, wireless earbuds, and more. HMD’s revamped website also teases new phones in bright colours of Blue, Green and Pink reminiscent of the Nokia Lumia phones.
Moto G24 Power launched in India
Moto G24 Power is a budget phone with a starting price of Rs 8,999 for the base model. The smartphone has a 6.56-inch HD+ 90Hz display, the MediaTek Helio G85 processor paired with up to 8GB of RAM. It also houses a 50MP rear camera and a 2MP macro camera at the back, and a 16MP front camera. The phone packs a 6,000mAh battery with 30W fast charging support.
