U&i Launches Entry Star 100 Smartwatch with 2.2-inch Curved Display and Wireless Charging

 Story By - Advik Gupta / Kartik Verma

U&i, one of India’s trusted and popular lifestyle tech accessories brands, has announced the launch of its latest smartwatch, the Entry Star 100 Series (UiSW 7596), expanding its wearable portfolio in India. The smartwatch features a 2.2-inch curved display, wireless charging, comprehensive health monitoring and sports tracking, along with IP68 water resistance for everyday durability. Adding further value for users, the smartwatch comes with 4 free straps included in the box, allowing customers to easily switch between different styles. Designed to offer practical smart features at an accessible price point, the Entry Star 100 Series aims to bring everyday convenience and fitness tracking together in a single device.

Priced at ₹1,099, the smartwatch is designed for users looking for an affordable wearable that supports daily activity tracking, smart utilities and personalisation options. The launch further strengthens U&i’s growing portfolio of smart accessories available across retail markets in India.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Paresh Vij, Director of U&i said, “Smartwatches today are becoming part of people’s daily routines, whether it is tracking fitness, checking updates or simply staying connected through the day. With the Entry Star 100 Series, we wanted to offer a smartwatch that includes features people actually use, such as a large display, health tracking and wireless charging, while keeping it accessible in terms of pricing.”

Features and Specifications

Display & Design

The Entry Star 100 Series Smartwatch (UiSW 7596) features a 2.2-inch curved display, offering an expansive and immersive viewing experience for notifications, health data and everyday updates. The smartwatch comes with a sleek metallic-finish casing, complemented by a functional crown and side button for easy navigation and control.

The smartwatch also supports interchangeable straps, allowing users to personalise the look of the device. Customers will receive 4 free straps included in the box, giving them the flexibility to switch styles based on mood, activity or occasion. The straps include an orange ribbed silicone belt designed for a sporty appearance, a textured braided white strap that offers a more refined finish, a grey Velcro nylon sport loop for extended comfort during long hours of wear and a light grey smooth silicone strap suited for everyday use.

Performance & Battery

The smartwatch supports wireless charging, allowing users to conveniently power the device using a magnetic charging dock without the need for cables. It is also designed to support extended battery usage, enabling users to stay connected and track their daily activities throughout the day.

Health & Fitness Tracking

The Entry Star 100 Series includes several health monitoring features designed to help users stay aware of their daily wellness metrics. The smartwatch supports real-time heart rate monitoring, pressure or stress monitoring, sleep tracking and temperature monitoring, allowing users to keep track of key health indicators throughout the day.

In addition, the smartwatch includes a dedicated sports mode that allows users to track their workouts and physical activities while monitoring performance and progress.

Durability & Smart Utilities

Designed for everyday use, the smartwatch comes with an IP68 water and dust resistance rating, offering protection against dust and water splashes during workouts or outdoor use.

The device also includes a range of smart utilities, such as weather forecast updates and remote control camera functionality that allows users to capture photos using their smartphone directly from their wrist. It also supports customisable high-resolution watch faces, enabling users to personalise the display with information such as time, heart rate and battery status.

Pricing and Availability

Entry Star 100 Series (UiSW 7596) is priced at ₹1,099 and is available across leading retail stores in India as well as on the brand’s official website.

Portronics Launches Vayu Cop – 6-in-1 Car Emergency Utility Station with Tyre Inflator, Vacuum Cleaner, Battery Starter, and Power Bank

Story By- Advik Gupta

Portronics, a leading brand in innovative consumer electronics and smart accessories, has introduced Vayu Cop, a versatile 6-in-1 car emergency utility station designed to support drivers during everyday vehicle maintenance as well as unexpected roadside situations. The portable solution integrates a 150 PSI tyre inflator, vacuum cleaner, air blower, 12V battery jump starter, LED flashlight with SOS mode, and emergency power bank, reducing the need to carry multiple car accessories.

Designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind, Vayu Cop features a sleek metallic grey finish and compact vertical design, giving it a modern and durable look that fits seamlessly into contemporary car interiors. A clear digital display provides real-time tyre pressure and device status updates, while the ergonomic side handle ensures easy portability and convenient use whenever needed.

Powered by an efficient BLDC motor, the unit delivers consistent performance across its core functions with lower noise and improved durability. The 150 PSI digital tyre inflator enables precise inflation for car and bike tyres with real-time pressure monitoring and auto shut-off to prevent over-inflation. It also functions as a 5000Pa vacuum cleaner for removing dust and debris from seats and tight corners, while the 10,000 RPM air blower helps clear dust from air vents and other hard-to-reach areas.

For added roadside readiness, Vayu Cop includes a 12V battery jump starter equipped with smart safety clamps that protect against reverse polarity, short circuits, and overcurrent. It runs on four 2000mAh rechargeable batteries with Type-C charging, ensuring reliable power on the go. The built-in LED flashlight with SOS mode improves visibility during nighttime breakdowns, while the power bank feature allows users to charge smartphones and small devices, making it a practical companion for long drives and emergencies.

Pricing and Availability

Vayu Cop is priced at INR 5,999 and comes with a 12-month warranty. The product is available for purchase on Portronics.com, Amazon.in, Flipkart.com, as well as other leading online and offline retail stores across India.

Instagram Ending DM Encryption May 8: Save Your Data Now

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the privacy-conscious tech community, Meta has officially announced it will discontinue end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for Instagram Direct Messages starting May 8, 2026. This decision marks a sharp U-turn from Meta’s long-standing goal of unifying secure messaging across its family of apps.

For years, Mark Zuckerberg championed the "privacy-focused vision" for social networking, but the latest update suggests that on Instagram, at least, that vision is shifting. Here is everything you need to know about why this is happening and how it affects your private chats.

Key Highlights of the Policy Shift

The core of this update is a transition away from the highest level of message security. While your messages will still be protected during "transport" (preventing outside hackers from intercepting them in transit), Meta will once again have the technical capability to access the content of your DMs.

Effective Date: May 8, 2026.

The Change: Removal of the "Secret Conversations" or opted-in E2EE feature for Instagram DMs.

The Reason: Meta cites low user adoption and a need for better platform safety and moderation tools.

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Features and Specifications

Since Instagram never made E2EE the default for all users—unlike WhatsApp—the feature was often buried in menus. This complexity likely contributed to its demise.

Message Scanning: Without E2EE, Meta’s automated systems can scan for prohibited content, such as spam, harassment, or illegal materials.

Data Portability: Meta is providing a tool within the app to let users download their existing encrypted message history before it is deleted or converted.

Device Support: To access these backup tools, users will need to ensure their Instagram app is updated to the latest version prior to the May deadline.

Price and Availability

There is no monetary "price" for this change, but the cost comes in the form of digital privacy.

Availability: This policy change is global and affects all users who had previously opted into encrypted chats.

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WhatsApp remains the "Fortress": Meta has explicitly stated that those who prioritize maximum privacy should migrate their sensitive conversations to WhatsApp, which will maintain E2EE by default.

Why This Device (and Platform) Matters

For the average user, Instagram DMs are for memes and casual replies to Stories. However, for activists, journalists, and high-profile creators, the removal of encryption is a significant blow.

Industry analysts suggest Meta is bowing to global regulatory pressure. Law enforcement agencies in the US, UK, and EU have long argued that "dark" chats hinder investigations into serious crimes. By removing the encryption barrier, Meta can more easily comply with warrants and deploy safety AI to flag harmful content before it spreads.

Final Thoughts

The end of encryption on Instagram feels like the end of an era for Meta’s "privacy first" marketing. While the company frames this as a move for safety, it undeniably broadens Meta's access to user data. If you have sensitive information in your Instagram DMs, now is the time to back up those chats and move the conversation to a dedicated secure platform.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Will my current Instagram messages be deleted on May 8?

Not necessarily, but your encrypted chat history might be lost if you don't download it. Meta is urging users to check in-app notifications to save their data before the feature is discontinued.

2. Is Facebook Messenger also losing encryption?

As of now, the change specifically targets Instagram. Meta has not yet confirmed if Messenger’s default encryption—which was rolled out more broadly than Instagram’s—will face a similar rollback.

3. Does this mean Instagram can read my messages for ads?

Technically, without end-to-end encryption, Meta has the ability to analyze message metadata and content. While they primarily cite "safety and moderation," the lack of E2EE removes the technical barrier that previously prevented such data use.

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4. How do I download my encrypted chats?

Go to your Accounts Center in Instagram Settings, select "Your Information and Permissions," and look for the "Download Your Information" option. Make sure your app is updated to see the specific prompts for encrypted data.

By - Aaradhay Sharma

Lava Bold 2 5G: Launch Date, Price, and Features in India

The Indian smartphone landscape is about to witness a significant shake-up. Lava International is gearing up to launch its latest contender, the Lava Bold 2 5G, on March 13, 2026. Positioning itself as a "flagship killer" for the budget segment, this device aims to bring high-end hardware—like curved displays and advanced biometrics—to the sub-₹15,000 category.

For a brand that has been gaining steady momentum with its "Clean Android" and "Agni" series, the Bold 2 5G represents a strategic push to dominate the entry-level 5G market.

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Key Highlights

Launch Date: March 13, 2026 (12:00 PM IST).

Expected Price: Starting around ₹13,999.

Standout Feature: Under-display fingerprint scanner (a segment first).

Display: 120Hz Curved AMOLED panel.

Software: Bloatware-free "Clean Android" experience

Features and Specifications

Lava isn't just competing on price; it's competing on "feel." The Bold 2 5G is designed to look and handle like a device twice its cost.

Premium Visuals: The device sports a 6.67-inch Curved AMOLED display. Much like the recently praised Agni 4, this screen supports a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring buttery-smooth scrolling. With slim bezels and high peak brightness, it’s built for heavy media consumption.

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Hardware & Performance: Under the hood, the Bold 2 5G is expected to house a MediaTek Dimensity 7060 chipset. This 6nm processor provides a solid balance between power efficiency and 5G connectivity.

Memory: It comes with 6GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage. Users can also leverage "Virtual RAM" to expand the multitasking capacity up to 12GB.

The "Sony" Camera: The rear features a prominent circular module housing a 50MP primary sensor (rumored to be the Sony IMX752). This is a significant step up for the Bold series, promising better low-light performance.

Battery & Charging: A 5,000mAh battery keeps the lights on, supported by 33W fast charging via USB Type-C.

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Price and Availability

The Lava Bold 2 5G is expected to debut at an aggressive price point of ₹13,999. This makes it one of the most affordable smartphones in India to offer an in-display fingerprint sensor and a curved AMOLED screen.

The device will be available primarily through Amazon India and the official Lava e-store. Early bird offers and bank discounts are likely to be announced during the March 13 event, potentially bringing the effective price even lower.

Why This Device Matters

In a market dominated by Chinese giants like Redmi and Realme, Lava is leaning heavily into its "Made in India" identity. However, patriotism isn't the only selling point here.

By offering an under-display fingerprint scanner—a feature usually found in phones priced above ₹25,000—Lava is forcing competitors to rethink their budget offerings. Furthermore, the promise of Clean Android (no ads, no bloatware) remains a massive advantage for users tired of intrusive software notifications on other budget phones.

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Final Thoughts

The Lava Bold 2 5G looks like a winner on paper. If the real-world performance matches the high-end aesthetics, Lava might just have the most compelling budget 5G phone of 2026. For students and young professionals looking for a premium-looking device without the flagship price tag, the wait until March 13 will be well worth it.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

1. When is the Lava Bold 2 5G launching in India?

Lava has officially confirmed the launch for March 13, 2026, at 12:00 PM.

2. Does the Lava Bold 2 5G have an AMOLED display?

Yes, it features a 6.67-inch Curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.

3. Will there be ads or bloatware on this phone?

No. Keeping with Lava's recent philosophy, the Bold 2 5G will provide a Clean Android experience with no pre-installed bloatware or intrusive ads.

4. What is the expected price of the Lava Bold 2 5G?

The smartphone is expected to be priced at approximately ₹13,999 for the base variant.

By - Aaradhay Sharma

ASRock X870E Taichi OCF Shatters PCMark 10 World Record

The boundaries of desktop performance have been pushed once again. In a stunning display of engineering prowess, the ASRock X870E Taichi OCF (Overclocking Formula) has officially secured the #1 World Record spot in the PCMark 10 Express benchmark. Paired with the powerhouse AMD Ryzen™ 9 9950X3D, the setup achieved a staggering 14,290 marks, cementing its status as the ultimate platform for enthusiasts chasing every last drop of performance.

Achieved by professional overclocker Alex2305 and validated on HWBOT.org, this feat isn't just about a number; it’s a testament to what happens when cutting-edge silicon meets elite-tier motherboard design.

Key Highlights

World Record Achievement: Secured 1st Place in the PCMark 10 Express benchmark.

The Powerhouse Duo: AMD Ryzen™ 9 9950X3D paired with the ASRock X870E Taichi OCF.

Record-Breaking Score: 14,290 marks, setting a new industry standard.

Built for Extremes: Engineered specifically to handle the thermal and electrical demands of professional overclocking.

Features and Specifications

The X870E Taichi OCF is not your standard gaming motherboard. It is a purpose-built tool designed for those who treat BIOS settings as their playground.

Processor Support: Optimized for AMD Ryzen™ 9000 Series (Zen 5) processors.

Advanced Power Delivery: Features an industrial-grade VRM design to ensure clean, stable power even during extreme voltage adjustments.

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Optimized PCB Layout: Specially designed to minimize signal interference and heat accumulation, critical for stability under high-load benchmarking.

Tuning Flexibility: Packed with exclusive ASRock overclocking tools that provide granular control over voltage, frequency, and memory timings.

Premium Components: Uses high-durability capacitors and chokes designed to withstand the stress of extreme cooling solutions.

Price and Availability

While ASRock has positioned the X870E Taichi OCF as a flagship product for the enthusiast market, availability can vary by region. Currently, this board is rolling out to major retailers worldwide. We recommend checking ASRock’s official product page for local pricing and to find authorized dealers near you.

Why This Device Matters

In the world of PC hardware, there is often a gap between "advertised speed" and "actual limits." The X870E Taichi OCF exists to bridge that gap. For the average user, it represents an investment in rock-solid stability. For the pro-overclocker, it is the key to unlocking the full potential of the Zen 5 architecture. This record proves that ASRock is listening to the community, refining its power delivery, and continuing to dominate the high-performance motherboard space.

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Final Thoughts

The ASRock X870E Taichi OCF has proven that with the right foundation, the latest AMD Ryzen processors can achieve truly remarkable results. Whether you are a competitive bencher or an enthusiast who demands the absolute best for your workstation, this motherboard is a serious contender. It’s a rare combination of raw power and refined stability that few boards can match.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the X870E Taichi OCF only for professional overclockers?

While it is designed for pros, it is an excellent choice for any enthusiast who wants maximum reliability and the headroom to push their system performance to the limit.

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2. Does this motherboard support previous generations of Ryzen CPUs?

The X870E chipset is specifically optimized for the latest AMD Ryzen™ 9000 Series "Zen 5" processors. Please check the official ASRock support list for compatibility with older AM5 CPUs.

3. What makes the OCF (Overclocking Formula) different from other boards?

The "OCF" line features specialized PCB layouts and power delivery components specifically chosen to handle the extreme voltage and heat generated during competitive overclocking.

4. Where can I find more details on the world record?

You can view the full validation of the 14,290 score on HWBOT.org by searching for the ASRock X870E Taichi OCF and the Ryzen 9 9950X3D.

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By - Aaradhay Sharma