Category: Hardware

Things you must do before charging your brand new Android Phone or Tablet
Things to do while charging Android Phone, Tablet. Tips to extend the battery life of smartphone.
If you got a new Android smartphone. What things should you do before charging your brand new Android phone or tablet? Things you must avoid while charging of your smartphone? Today, we will talk about some tips that will help you to keep smartphones battery healthy as a long as possible. Important things you must do before charging your Android device.
The reason behind the death of smartphone is an issue in battery life. It doesn’t matter your smartphone is new or old.
Batteries are not made for lifetime purpose.
Batteries are not immortal. After some charging cycles, batteries stop to hold electricity in it. Using proper ways we can maintain those cycles of charging and discharging so we can get maximum power. So the question is how to keep the battery in the best condition? There are some ways you have to follow while charging your brand new Android phone, tablet or pc. This will help to keep battery life healthy.
Some of the important things you must do before charging your device running on Android.
Things you must do before charging your brand new Android Phone or Tablet
Check accessories properly
After buying a new android phone, tablet. Check accessories properly. Specifications on accessories must match with specifications given on paper. If it doesn’t match then contact with Customer Care support for further guidance.
Charging battery with Fast Charge charger
There are lot of fast charging methods offered by Qualcomm’s Quick Charge, One Plus’s Dash Charging, Moto’s Adaptive Fast Charging, etc. In fast charging, the charger is capable to supply electricity at higher voltage and current. Which helps to charge the battery faster. So, how fast charging works? In fast charging, charger communicates with circuits on device which tells charger how much of electricity required to charge a battery. This way device talks with charger. And with higher voltage and current ratio battery gets charged at faster rate. This way Fast Charging for Android works.
If your android phone or tablet doesn’t support fast charging then don’t use fast charger to charge your Android device. It effects on lifespan of battery. so for longer battery life try to use recommended charger given by the manufacturer.
Charging at night or overcharging
Many people charge their phone overnight. Average charging time of phone is only an hour or two to get 100 %. So there is no point charging your phone or tablet for long time than it requires. If you keep your phone charged overnight then you are increasing the amount of time your device spends with charger. It degrades the battery capacity little by little. Heavy dosage of tickle charge decrease the charge cycles of the battery.
Using proper cable
Unrecommended charging cable can damage U2I port on our smartphone. The port is responsible for charging and some other USB function. Improper handling of that port can damage the USB functionality of phone or tablet. Which can lead to the multiple consequences like phone doesn’t charge, phone won’t turn ON, etc. That’s why it is always recommended to use proper USB cable while charging your brand new Android phone or tablet. You can try braided USB cables which has a lot of advantages over regular USB cables.
Avoid uncertified magnetic charging cables
I have observed that many people are using un-certified magnetic charging cables. Those charging cables are easy to connect with USB port as compared to traditional USB cables. Always use proper magnetic charging cable. There are some risks to use magnetic USB cables. If device is made up of metallic body then sometimes you have to take care that charging cable and device body doesn’t get shorted.
Using another Charger
Always try to use the charger which comes with your phone. It comes with correct rating. While using another third-party charger make sure that it is supported by your phone. Never use low quality and cheap alternatives it may harm your phone or tablet. Many times such cheap chargers catch fire.
These are some of the things you must do before charging your Phone or Tablet running on Android operating system. It helps you to retain more and more battery life. Still worried about your battery life.
Thinking to buy Power Bank. Read How to choose right power bank for your mobile.
January 30, 2018
Mi In-Ear Pro Headphones: Specs, Test, Price Detailed Review
Xiaomi is known primarily for making budget smartphones with a premium build. But they found themselves on the radar of audio lovers everywhere with the Xiaomi Piston 2.0 in-ears. Mi In-Ear Pro even made it onto our best list and stayed there for quite some time. I personally liked them so much that I bought a pair and made them my daily drivers. Even when testing other headphones, I always had them in my back pocket.
Fast forward a little, and the Xiaomi Piston III come out with a brand new design and slightly different sound. Though it was in some ways a better sound, it wasn’t enough for me to part ways with my Piston 2.0’s. Now the company is pushing the fourth generation which they’ve dubbed the Mi In-Ear Pro Headphones. They have a similar design to the Piston III’s, but a new sound. Are these the new best earbuds on the block?
They have a similar design to the Piston III’s, but a new sound

Mi In-Ear Pro Box Contents
One of the cooler things about the Piston 2.0 in-ears was the box it came in. When you opened it, you got a faint smell of chocolate. Unfortunately, Xiaomi ditched that clever packaging and instead went with a simple cardboard box. Opening it up you’ll get the headphones, a quick start guide, and three extra ear tips.
Mi In-Ear Pro Build & Design
Aesthetically these look very similar to the previous generation. Xiaomi kept the angled design that shoots sound into your ear, but it’s slightly different if you put them right next to each other. The cable is made with “break-resistant” Kevlar fibers that are supposed to increase durability. Though we didn’t do any stress tests, the headphones seemed to survive being tossed around and stuffed into pockets without a problem. One thing I did notice was that it still gets tangled a little too easily for something that’s supposed to be tangle resistant.
The Mi In-Ear Pro cable is made with “break-resistant” Kevlar fibers that are supposed to increase durability
The control module is about three inches down from the right earbud and made of metal. This gives it a nice feel and surprisingly doesn’t weigh the earbuds down. They’re still as light as ever. That same metal is also found on the headphone jack in whichever color you choose to buy. It definitely helps the wires avoid fraying over time. I purchased the Black version but they also come in a silver/black. Though these do come with 3 extra pairs of ear tips, I found that none of them fit my ears comfortably enough and continuously fell out. I eventually swapped them out for old headphone tips and the entire experience immediately became much more enjoyable.
Mi In-Ear Pro Connectivity
The Mi In-ears terminates in a 3.5mm jack, so you can plug into any of your devices.
The Mi In-ears terminates in a 3.5mm jack, so you can plug into any of your devices. Still, you might need a dongle or two if you’re getting a new phone anytime soon. That said, there are a few things to be aware of regarding playback controls. Xiaomi manufacturers Android phones, so the 3-button mic and remote is completely compatible with Android. The middle button will pause/play music, skip between tracks, and access Google Now if you hold it down, while the top and bottom buttons control volume.
the 3-button works with an Android phone just as advertised, however, I had issues with iOS. Typical Apple *Sighs*
Using it with an Android phone it worked just as advertised, but I had issues with iOS. The volume buttons don’t work because of Apple’s hardware choices, but I also had an issue with pausing/playing music. While music is playing tapping it once will pause the music. Cool. But clicking the middle button again doesn’t resume playback, instead, it accesses Siri for some reason.
Although Xiaomi does mention the volume issues with iOS, they don’t mention this. So if you’re an iOS user you might as well just ignore the buttons. At least the microphone works well. Calls made on both Android and iOS came through loud and clear with no complaints from people on the other side, though with iOS I also was not able to answer the call by pressing the middle button.
Mi In-Ear Pro Sound Quality
The Mi In-ear Headphones Pro have two sets of drivers in each earbud to get the most out of the sound. Inside you’ll find a hybrid dynamic driver that handles the mids and low end. But you’ll also find balanced armature drivers that handle the highs. Together, the result is great.
Mi In-Ear Pro Pros & Cons
Mi In-Ear Pro Lows
The low end in these is definitely reminiscent of the older Xiaomi Piston 2.0’s that I fell in love with. It’s deep and solid, with just the right amount of pump. The consistent bass kicks in “Starboy” by Weeknd sound great and nothing in the low end ever gets out of control.
Mi In-Ear Pro Mids
Mids had a nice full sound to them but there was still some occasional muddiness depending on what you were listening to. In particular, I found this to be an issue in Tera Woh Pyar by Momina Mustehsan Coke Studio Season 9 Episode 6 where the organ seems to get in the way of some parts of the vocals.
Mi In-Ear Pro Highs
These in-ears handled the high end nicely as well with hi-hats and cymbals becoming piercing only when the volume is maxed out. Luckily, these get plenty loud. While listening to normal volume I didn’t have any issues and everything had a good amount of detail.
Should You Buy Mi In-Ear Pro or Not?
Xiaomi hasn’t disappointed. These are the best sounding in-ears Xiaomi has built today without a doubt, but they do have their issues. If you’re using Android you won’t have an issue with the control module, but iOS users should be ready for a few hiccups. On top of that, the silicone ear tips that come with the headphones were not that great and I couldn’t get a good fit with any of them. If you’re looking to pick these up I definitely would recommend getting another pair of ear tips from somewhere else.
Still, at only at Rs. 1300 the pros easily outweigh the cons. Solid build quality and great sound are what you look for in a pair of in-ears and these deliver. For under Rs. 1500 these are without a doubt one of the best in-ears you can get. You can even make the case for the sub-Rs.2000 range. One thing is for sure though, these new headphones are for sure going to replace the older Piston 2.0’s in my pocket.
Buy Xiaomi Mi In-Ear Pro at Amazon
November 9, 2017
Braided USB Cable: Everything You Need To Know + VYPR Cable Review
With need for cables being on such an extensive level, you need to have durable, rugged cables that could withstand everyday use. If you have been wondering which one to buy, here’s a handy review that explains why Braided USB Cable and premium quality cable is much better when compared to conventional PVC cable. As an example of high quality braided nylon USB cable we are using VYPR CBL and comparing it to Samsung note 4’s stock USB cable.
Look at the Packaging! when did your cable arrived in a nice box?
Are Braided Cables More Durable?
When you go for a branded Nylon Braided USB Cable such as VYPR USB Cable, you can expect exceptional durability for the product. It will easily last through months without difficulty and will be your able companion when you travel from one place to another. Because of the industry grade braided nylon fiber and anodized aluminum which are used in the production of the cable, VYPR cable will not tear or break even after months of rough usage. PVC cables that comes with Redmi devices last a few months after which the black PVC material weakens, bends and eventually rips. Yes! Braided Cables Are Durable!
This Leather Braiding looks, so damn Amazing!!
Why there isn’t Thin Braided Cable?
The durability for the VYPR Braided USB Cable is rendered by the thicker design in comparison with your ordinary PVC cable. The CBL has 3.5 mm diameter on the outer area as opposed to 2-2.5mm of the regular PVC cable, but regardless of this thickness, the cable is very versatile and highly flexible. You can twist and turn it when charging your phone or tablet without difficulty. To maintain this flexibility and durable, most of time, Braided Cables aren’t so much thin.
Protection!! They got the basics Just right!
Braided Cables are Tangle-Free
Think about your headphones’ cables or other cables that you may be using. Isn’t one of first thing that comes to mind is the annoying knots and ties which you have to untangle every other day? Somehow they find the way to get tangled irrespective of the uncountable measures you take to ensure they do not! With premium Nylon Braided USB Cables, you no longer have to worry about this issue. They are completely tangle free which saves a lot of time and nerves. This feature also boosts the durability of the cable since it doesn’t bend, crack and tear.
With Mobile Cases: Most users have a different type of case to suit their mood and requirement. VYPR’s Connector housings used in the cables are really narrow so they fit most cases available in the market. However, they are not as narrow as Samsung’s cable. In fact, just the protective aluminum housing is fitted on top of it, makes the just a notch thicker than the stock cable. The company guarantees hassle free return and refund if the cable doesn’t fit the buyer’s specific case, so there is no risk there.
Live in Style: Coloured Braided Cables
While usability is really important for some users, style is important for the others. Samsung’s are not the cheapest smartphones and many users are prepared to pay extra to accessorize their beloved piece of technology. With this in mind some aftermarket cable producers including VYPR CBL, create their products with extra style. VYPR CBL cable comes in 4 colors, which match the colors of the latest Apple devices – Gold, Silver, Space Gray and an added bonus of Red. VYPR product reviews on Amazon.com indicate that this stylish feature is extremely popular with some buyers. These colors aren’t offered on regular PVC cables.
VYPR CBL comes in USB-C, MicroUSB, and Apple Lightning Flavors
How Much Braided USB Cable Costs? Price?
The quality and features of Nylon Braided micro USB cables may lead to thinking that they are overpriced and aren’t affordable for an average user. However, it couldn’t be further from the truth. 3ft/1mtr VYPR cables are offered for as low as Rs.500, which at the time of writing is way cheaper than the original Samsung cable in PVC. And for those in need of a longer cable, VYPR offers a 10ft/3mtr. long cable at the same price of Rs.500. it is available in Gold, Black and Silver. As for compatibility VYPR CBL comes in with USB-C, MicroUSB, and Apple Lightning connector’s as Well.
Any Warranty?
Buying PVC USB cables for cheap rates is quite possible online but you hardly get any kind of warranty with it. The life span of such cables is mostly limited by the durability of materials used in the production. Thin PVC cables are far more likely to bend and rip, and their plastic connector housings are also quite fragile. Nylon Braided cable by VYPR CBL come with a solid 12-month warranty, which makes the investment worthwhile.
January 8, 2017
MTT Braided Nylon Micro USB Cable Review: Value For Money Or NOT?
Today Let’s take a look at a Braided USB Cable from a not so well known manufacturer “MTT”. This USB cable has great value for money proposition and have some tricks up its slews.
The braided USB cable box package was quite good!
Why Are Braided (USB) Cables Better?
Firstly why braided cable? Well I have a cat and she tends to destroy almost every cable no matter whether it is a headphone cable or a USB cable (only she knows what she against cables). So after she went through THREE of my original Samsung cables (costing Rs. 600-700 each) and when everything else failed, it was time to try something new, braided cable. And many reputed manufactures like Anker, Tuzker, and boAt make couple of good ones from and they supported quick charging and were quite promising but honestly speaking, they were pretty expensive for experiment. So I stumbled up upon the MTT’s braided cable. From the pictures it looked OK and it said it supported fast charging and had a nifty feature of having reversible connectors at both ends. (I was a bit skeptical about it though) plus as they had a discount on it , so the deal seemed quite reasonable as well.
The package arrived a bit late but I did not care much as shipping was free (Never complain if it’s free). The box contains the just Braided Nylon micro USB Cable nothing else (I still wonder, what more I was expecting?). Having a first look, the quality of the cable was quite good (much better than what I expected). The nylon braiding was nicely done, no loose threads, the connector are made of metal with plastic inserts to protect the cable, and it comes with a Velcro tie for cable management as well. All in all first impression were quite good.
MTT Braided USB Cable Review
Though the feature is quite handy the USB type-A side worries me as it is too thin!
Well now to the important part. Is this Braided USB Cable good enough? How did it perform? What about fast charging? Did my cat destroyed it as well? Well to be honest after three months of use still it looks good as new. The nylon braiding held up well (trust me I have abused it quite well). This cable does support fast charging (2.4 Amp output) but quick charging would have been nice (but that’s me being greedy) and the reversible connector is a handy feature, now no need to fiddle around finding the right way in (though on USB A side, it looks bit delicate but it still going). and finally my cat, she strangely have left the cable alone after smelling it for a few seconds the first time I installed it.
Being 1 meter on length, it is just right for everyday use!
So final verdict? Well even though the Cable was quite impressive at the price and have that nifty reversible connector. The cable lacks the assurance and peace of mind that cables from big manufacturer provides (maybe I’m being paranoid but that’s my view) and though I haven’t faced any issues, many others have and the after sales service is quite questionable. So if you are looking a cheap cable that will take a beating before giving up (don’t expect this cable to be strong as Anker Powerline plus), this is the one to get. So, this was our review about MTT Braided Nylon USB Cable! Make sure you share this with your friends too.
Anker claims their Power line plus series of braided cable can lift upto 80kg of weight! so you can imagine the strength!

January 6, 2017
Xiaomi Mi 10,000mAh Power Bank Review: Everything You Need to Know
Xiaomi’s 10,000mAh Power Bank is one of the best we’ve seen, and not just in a long time – ever. The design language oozes style with an elegant and high portability with aluminum-alloy design, the Xiaomi packs useful capacity and at an extraordinary value. Find out more in our Xiaomi Mi 10,000mAh Power Bank Review.
in some countries like China it comes in different colors (*sigh* typical Xiaomi.)
Xiaomi Mi Power Bank 10400mAh Review: Box Contents
When we first took the Xiaomi power bank out of its box we were confused. Opposed to standard with Xiaomi products (all product info written the writing on the box) this box was pretty bear with only Mi logo on it along with MRP and basic info. on the side (and a weird warning sticker but I hope it is not meant for us).
Inside the box, sits the powerbank itself in all its glory and a good quality short micro USB cable in its own small slot. they supplied a quick setup guide as well which is in English as well as in Chinese, Just In case you don’t know how the power bank works.
sits the powerbank itself in all its glory and a good quality short micro USB cable in its own small slot
Xiaomi Mi 10,000mAh Power Bank Review: Design and build Quality
The Mi Power bank have anodized aluminum shell that gives them a premium look and a solid build quality that you don’t expect in power banks in this price range. These have curved corners and have Mi branding on the front. The charging/discharging chips are designed by Texas Instruments and the cell is manufactured by LG or Samsung.
Xiaomi has managed to squeeze so much power into such a package
India gets only the silver-colored variant, but in some countries like China it comes in different colors (*sigh* typical Xiaomi.). These feel solid in hand and is quite scratch resistant, but don’t test it. Since it is in silver color, dust and stains are clearly visible. But this power bank is water and corrosion resistant so cleaning it is easy.
The Mi Power bank have anodized aluminum shell that gives them a premium look and a solid build qualityThe powerbank have LED indicators, standard USB slot, micro USB slot and a button on the top. The 4 LED indicator shows the remaining battery left when you are using and the remaining battery that needs to be charged when it is charging. The LED indicator might be too bright in dark environment. It charges devices immediately when it is connected, pressing the button simply indicates the remaining charge left.
The Power bank have LED indicators, standard USB slot, micro USB slot and a button
This isn’t the only thing, Xiaomi has taken extra care over in designing its Xiaomi power bank. The fact that Xiaomi has managed to squeeze so much power into such a package means this is the first 10,000mAh power bank we’ve seen that we’d happily slip into a pocket rather than a bag. No power bank makes a better compromise between portability and capacity.
Xiaomi Mi 10,000mAh Power Bank Review: Charging Time, Performance
Coming to the performance, This 10000mAh power bank has 2.0A input and 2.1A output, so you can even charge an iPad (or any android tablet). The 10000mAh power bank can charge the Redmi note 3 and 3s prime upto 1.5 times and Samsung Note 4 twice. The power bank charges the devices faster since it offers 2.1A output which is good enough to charge smartphone along with its accessories such as Bluetooth headphones, fitness bands and more as well.
Power loss during voltage conversion is a common problem in power banks, and Xiaomi promises 93% charging conversion rate for the 10000 mAh power bank. It also says that these have been tested to withstand 5,000 MicroUSB insertion or removal cycles and 1500 USB insertion or removal cycles.
These power banks don’t get heated a bit even after hours of usage, compared to most other power banks with metal build. Lack of USB charger in the box is acceptable considering the price tag. Wish the 10000mAh power bank had an additional USB slot to charge another device. These have nine layers of circuit chipset protection (that’s what the company says. And I believe them).
We think Xiaomi has been somewhat over-cautious with this 6250mAh rating in any case. The hardware inside has been optimized for increased efficiency and durability, which Xiaomi claims is up to 93 percent.
Most major manufactures mentions the efficiency along with minimum charge
These power banks come only with a small USB cable. You need to get a wall charger separately to charge these power banks, Better use a 2A charger since it takes several hours (and several hours’ means more than 6 hours) to charge these power banks with a 1A charger.
Xiaomi Mi 10,000mAh Power Bank Review: Price, Conclusion
Overall, these power banks are highly recommended for the impressive build quality and affordable price tag. And the 10000mAh power bank offers more value for money at just Rs. 1299(which drops to Rs. 999 for seasonal sales), and is a powerful battery pack that can charge even the latest iPad. That being said I think this might be the Best power bank for your phone or tablet
January 4, 2017
How To Choose Right Power Bank For Your Mobile Phone
How To Choose Suitable Portable Power Bank For Your Android, iPhone or any Smartphone?
Power banks or Portable Batteries or Battery Packs, whatever you call them but all serve one purpose! To give you power on the go without a need to look for power output. Just like cables, Power banks come in different shape, size, capacity, and don’t get me started on the features. Some do just light up as well! I have seen some powerbanks that can jumpstart a full size SUV!! How cool is that? Here, I’ll give few tips to choose best powerbank for your mobile phone suitable for your needs.

So with all these option, how to buy right powerbank one that gets the job done for you?
What is Power Bank Capacity, mAh?
Let’s start by understanding what exactly is the capacity of a Powerbank? How it is measured? How much of the stated capacity you actually get? Is there any difference between genuine branded powerbank and a cheap powerbank (you guessed it right from some shady seller outside your local railways station)? Well let’s find out the answers.
Now first what is the powerbank capacity? The amount of charge the battery cells inside the powerbank can hold. It is generally measured in mAH (milliAmp-Hour) or WHr (Watt-Hour). Now we know that we never get even close to what mentioned capacity on the powerbank. So, how to know what you are going to get?
if you open a powerbank something like this is expected to be seen. (If not, you might be screwed)
If your phone has 4000 mAh battery and if you buy powerbank of 2000 mAh capacity, its not going to last enough! So, make sure you look at your phone’s battery capacity too while choosing right powerbank for your mobile phone. There is a theoretical equation to calculate the USB output capacity from a powerbank. Let’s understand some basics. Inside powerbanks are 3.7V batteries (this voltage varies but only in point margin) but the USB standard is 5V. Between the battery and the USB socket is a conversion circuit and this changes the 3.7 V into USB friendly 5V. When converting into a higher voltage you must also convert the mAH into the new voltage.
How to Calculate Power Bank Capacity? (Formula)
A simple equation can be used to convert the 3.7V into 5V.
Capacity with respect to 5V = 3.7 X Advertised Capacity / 5
In this case a 10,000 mAH powerbank: 3.7 X 10,000 / 5 = 7,400 mAH
So a 10,000 mAH at 3.7V powerbank really only supplies 7,400 mAH at the 5V USB connection. So straight out of the box is a 26% reduction in the stated mAH. But that’s not it, there is also something called as conversion loss. What is a conversion loss?
As you use your powerbank, the circuit inside that converts 3.7V to 5V USB uses some energy and also creates heat. During this conversion you lose some charge. This loss is called as conversion loss. There is a wide range in conversion efficiency and most brands don’t state the losses, but here Xiaomi has prized themselves on their conversion efficiency chips which are up to 93% efficient, meaning you only lose 7% off your battery power in the conversion. This loss is more is the cheap generic powerbanks as conversion circuits are not even remotely as sophisticated as the ones of branded powerbanks.
You can see 5V output, which is a standard for USB output
So now what you actually get out of your powerbank?
To get a rough idea the equation (yeah! I know maths suck. But it is part of life. Deal with it) will be
Actual output percentage= (Capacity with respect to 5V / Advertised Capacity *100) – conversion loss
In this case, Actual output= (7400/10000*100) – 7%
= 67%
So the mi powerbank should supply roughly 67 mAH of charge. Which is good enough to charge most smartphones at least 1.5 times if not more. But again this percentage varies on the basis of conversion loss.
Most major manufactures mentions the efficiency along with minimum charge
Now a bonus answer. Why don’t they just state the actual output?
The manufactures don’t need to!! As technically, most people have no idea what’s inside the box. By not giving the actual 5V output brands can reap these benefits;
• Manufactures can have a higher number of mAH for their powerbank and sound more powerful.
• It avoids the talk or testing of conversion loss and brands with low efficiency conversion chips can still market them in the same league as other efficient brands.
Some manufacturers will state in the manual or in small print on the device (but most will not state) the minimum output of the powerbank. So as a general rule always buy a powerbank with atleast 30% more charge capacity than you need.
Till now, hope you’ve learned how to choose right power bank for your phone! Make sure you share this post with your friends too.
December 28, 2016