Author: Advait Berde

  ASUS Brings ROG Academy for e-sport enthusiasts in India

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG), the No.1 Gaming Laptop brand with an endeavour to empower gaming enthusiasts in India, announced the launch of India’s first virtual academy programme for gamers – ROG Academy. As part of this initiative, ASUS ROG will identify PC gamers through a screening process and provide them with a platform to sharpen and enhance their skills and prepare them for competitive E-sport tournaments on a national and a global level. This initiative is a testimony to India being an important market for ASUS’s consistent efforts towards building a strong gaming ecosystem in India and empowering gamers through a number of programmes and initiatives.

ASUS ROG will be providing tournament-ready gaming equipment and first-in-class high-quality technology to gamers, with professional mentorship through this initiative. This will help gamers to enhance their skills to participate and conquer the E-sport tournament.

Speaking on the announcement, Arnold Su, Business Head, Consumer and Gaming PC, System Business Group, ASUS India, said “The count of online gamers in India grew by 31% in 2019 and reached approximately 365 million. It is expected to reach 440 million by 2022 as per a FICCI-EY report on the media and entertainment industry. Due to the pandemic, we are witnessing a permanent shift in content consumption patterns globally and increased digital acceleration. With an increase in e-sports gamers during the pandemic, ASUS has strengthened its commitment towards investing in the future of the gaming industry in India. It gives us immense pleasure to be the first brand in the laptop segment to introduce first-of-a-kind unique initiatives like ROG Academy, empowering gamers to conquer competitions and elevating the e-sports industry. We aim to encourage more and more gamers to mentor them through their journey and familiarise themselves with future opportunities in this landscape. This initiative will provide a huge boost in establishing a pool of credible E-sports players in India and pave the way for next-generation gamers with access to resources, mentorship and training”.

 

ROG Academy:

Curriculum & Duration:

ASUS ROG Academy is a yearlong- programme, divided into four sessions as per the quarter, aimed at strengthening the e-sports talent pool in India. The shortlisted team and players will go through an extensive selection process divided into different phases. This will culminate in 6 select players becoming part of a 3-month long session for the first quarter, which will include activities ranging from individual skill training and mentorship from the coach to teamwork, communication, and high-level concepts used in the highest level of competition. The exercises, schedule and entire programme will be specifically designed keeping in mind the title and the existing skillsets of the players who will be a part of it. The long term goal of the programme is to have more and more skilled e-sport players from India.

Rewards & Outcome from the training:

The first session of the quarter will involve “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” as the official title as we seek to uncover India’s most talented players. Panellists will consist of a representative from ASUS ROG, partners, and CS: GO. ASUS ROG will be providing the entire team Ex-Gratia with INR 100,000 price to all the final 6 players once they complete their 3-month training successfully. Players will also receive monetary compensation of INR 15,000 as a stipend as well as a bonus on a monthly basis during the training. Also, the 6 players will continue to represent the brand for an additional 3 months while participating in any tournaments or events post completing the 3-month training programme successfully.

How to Apply: ROG Academy

Aspiring Gamers aged 16 and above and who are willing to participate in the programme can register themselves through its official website.
Gamers aged between 16 and 18 will need to provide a consent letter from their parents to participate in the programme. 

Registration to be a part of ROG academy will start from Date 1st Feb till 10th Feb

After registration, participants will have to go through a screening process which will include showcasing their abilities in the open tryouts where they will be judged by a jury.

The top six participants chosen from the tryouts phase will receive admission into the programme. Participants will receive a stipend of INR 15000.

BMW G 310 GS review: No BS, GS.

When BMW Motorrad and TVS collaborated to share their engineering and technology, there was no doubt about its results’ brilliance. Among the trifecta of motorcycles that spawned in 2018 was the G 310 GS, that bore the BMW badge. It filled the gap of an entry-level adventure tourer in the German manufacturer’s lineup, thus enabling a significant audience to experience the off-road life. Although the erstwhile model had no flaws, BMW felt it needed a periodic update.

Enter the 2020 G 310 GS. Along with aesthetic updates, the motorcycle also gets a fresh appeal and a BS6 motor. Although the engine has become cleaner, its power output has remarkably remained unchanged at 34bhp and 28Nm. The bigger GS siblings inspire the three new colour schemes in its lineup, and you will be forgiven if you mistake the 310 GS as one of its bigger brothers, mainly due to the new “rally e” colours. BMW has also replaced the levers with adjustable ones, just to add that extra bit of personalisation. Apart from that, the engine, chassis, brakes, tyres, and frame, among other components have been carried forward. Not that they needed a change anyway.

Having long legs means I don’t find many motorcycles accomodating. But that was nothing that worried the G 310 GS. I was snugly nestled in its seat, and the 835mm seat height meant I could put my foot down without having to bend it much. Also, the raised handlebars meant standing on the motorcycle was equally comfortable and manoeuvrability was hardly compromised, regardless of the riding stance. Though the older G 310 GS was 5 kilos lighter than the one I reviewed, the weight was quite manageable, and I hardly noticed the change. The combination of the seat, handlebars, and slightly rear-set footpegs offer a comfortable ride, even making long distances bearable. However, its sheer bulk makes it difficult to push by hand.

The bike’s happy place is between 6000 and 7000 rpm, with peak torque kicking in at 7500 rpm. Beyond that, the engine does not complain, but instead, the vibrations that seep through all points of contact will let you know that it has begun to grumble. Nevertheless, the engine stayed faithful and pulled all along; even then, I had twisted the throttle wide open. Also, the 5th and 6th gears are impossible to redline. Trust me, I tried. The bike can cruise comfortably at three-digit speeds and tops out at 142 kmph, though it might go higher with a lighter rider. Who knows.

With a heavy clutch, riding in peak traffic does become cumbersome after a while. The motorcycle itself can be taken through tight gaps, but the clutch action means the engine might conk off a couple of times. At least till you get used to it, anyway. However, it is an entirely different scenario when munching miles on the highway or taking the unbeaten path. The brakes, on the other hand, work in reverse. While they offer good bite in city rides, they will suck the fun right out of off-roading. Why, you ask? Well, BMW has opted out of switchable ABS, and as a result, you cannot lock the rear brakes. Get the point? No. Slides.

BMW has equipped the G 310 GS with 41mm USD forks and an adjustable rear monoshock. Though the suspension setup has been carried over, what’s new is the LED lights. Along with a long and bright throw, the LEDs also add to the motorcycle’s visual appeal. However, there are some chinks in the otherwise glistening armour.

TVS updated the Apache RR 310 with almost superbike level technology, offering different ride modes, a feature-packed colour TFT instrument cluster and much more. It is somewhat disappointing that BMW did not share this technology with TVS, which would have significantly improved the G 310 GS as an overall package. Nevertheless, it is a solid deal.

With a Rs 2.85 lakh (ex-showroom) price tag, the G 310 GS might seem a little pricey. But BMW has cut Rs 65,000 from its previous price, offering a much better value-for-money deal now. However, with the competition getting stiffer, the G 310 GS will be given a run for its money by the Royal Enfield Himalayan and the KTM 250 Adventure. How will it fare against them is something only time will tell, but until that happens, you can be assured that this GS is no BS!

Amen, Omen: HP Omen 15 review

Hewlett Packard, known in the computing world as HP, has always been keen on providing maximum performance at a minimal price. Well, minimal if you consider the value on offer and the competition. When Intel came up with the latest 10th series mobile CPUs, HP jumped on the bandwagon to upgrade its offering in the gaming industry.

While the baseline HP Pavilion Gaming gets a 16-inch model as an update, the flagship Omen series has undergone considerable changes. While the Omen X acts as the top boss in the lineup, I will be exploring the Omen 15 in detail, which I got a chance to review. Here are my thoughts.

First Impressions:

If the Omen had to mean what it is named after, it would be a rather good omen. Not that it doesn’t have its share of drawbacks and shortcomings, but more on that later. A glance at the laptop defines its purpose and HP has done a fantastic job keeping it straight, sophisticated, and subtle. The lack of RGB lighting on the exterior gives the laptop an understated look, but probably that’s where its stealth factor comes in. Displaying its logo in a shiny diamond background is the only telltale sign of what lies underneath. The new update has made the laptop sleeker and stealthier, making it more powerful and purpose-oriented. 

As I opened the lid, I was greeted by the ‘015’ branding on the keyboard deck. This is the first sign of the laptop being a gaming-oriented machine. Its chassis has a metal finish and a matte black colour. While it does look appealing, it tends to attract a lot of smudges. The shiny logo will immediately start to look worn and used if not taken proper care of. The lid itself is quite flimsy and was unable to hold its position as I moved and jerked the laptop around. Not that it was a pressure test, but HP Omen 15 could use a bit better build quality. 

Another parameter that seems unnecessary is the 180-degree flat hinge. It appears useless as there would be hardly any ardent gamer who would lay the laptop flat on the table to play. Add to that a weight of 2.36 kilos, and you have a good “chunky” laptop at your disposal.

According to HP, the Omen 15 gaming laptop has the smallest footprint in the 15-inch gaming laptop segment. However, it is in no way lightweight and will give you a decent arm workout should you choose to carry it around in a handbag. However, carrying it on your back is relatively easier.

Display

The unit I reviewed displayed all its content on a Full-HD (1920×1080) resolution, with 144Hz refresh rate screen (though it can scale up to 300Hz as per the model) compatible with Nvidia G-Sync. The IPS panel offers 300 nits of brightness, 72 per cent NTSC, and 90 per cent sRGB colour gamut coverage.

While it isn’t the best offering for gamers, it is a pretty solid deal for the price tag it commands. Narrow bezels surround the display on three sides, which offers a decently immersive experience. Continuing the “matte finish” theme, the laptop also features a non-reflective display which is great for gaming.

Connectivity and Hardware

HP does not like to comprise on connectivity and it shows. Armed with three USB-A ports, a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 3 support, an HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, and a 3.5mm connector for your headphones or microphone, the laptop can connect to practically anything you throw at it. It also gets an SD card reader, should any content creator or photographer wish to unload the data onto its super-fast 1 TB SSD, more on that later.

The laptop charges via a standard barrel charging pin and can sustain light to medium use for 6-8 hours a day on a full charge. However, for heavy gaming, it is recommended to keep the charger plugged in as AAA games will drain the battery otherwise.

 

Coming to the keyboard, it is a pleasant sight to look at. With full-sized arrow keys, it took us straight back to the time when I used to play 8-bit games with blocky controls. The keyboard has RGB lighting, though the one present under the keyboard isn’t the best of the lot either.

I found it best to use a single light, or switch it off altogether. The keyboard misses out on the Numpad, though it compensates for it with a few handy shortcut keys.

Typing on the keyboard for prolonged periods would have been easier if it wasn’t for the laptop’s jagged edges, starting digging into the wrists after some time. 

HP has sent me the Omen 15 with a 10-gen Intel Core i7-10750H, 16GB of RAM  and GeForce GTX 1660Ti with 6GB VRAM. Since I had to use the laptop for general office work, it neither took load on itself nor gave me trouble.

For the average office-goer, the laptop will be a boon as it will be lag-free and sustainable for as long as you would like. Ardent gamers, however, will be slightly underwhelmed by the hardware. However, this should be the perfect pick for someone running on a budget.

The heat dissipation was also remarkable, and the laptop managed to stay cool as I enjoyed hours of gameplay! The fan did become slightly noisy and could be heard over the keyboard, but it wasn’t too intrusive or distracting. Bang and Olufsen have provided a sound system for the laptop, which sits under a somewhat quirky design on the keyboard’s top.

While the sound output is decent, I didn’t use the speakers a lot as my headphones were almost always plugged in. Overall, I’d like to say that HP Omen 15 is a compelling package at its price point if you overlook its few drawbacks.

Verdict

Priced well above the Rs 1 lakh mark, the Omen has to be a well-researched and thought out pick for someone looking for a good gaming experience. While it does its job well, its shortcomings might dissuade some buyers who have a higher budget. Nevertheless, it is a value for money machine that’ll be capable enough for your productivity and gaming needs. 

HyperX SoloCast: A clear choice for a clear voice

HyperX recently sent us its premium live streaming microphone, the QuadCast. While it was an eyecatcher and served its purpose flawlessly, it was also rather bulky and complicated to use. Luckily, HyperX soon followed up with its more compact and user-friendly version, the SoloCast. While the SoloCast might seem minuscule compared to the bigger QuadCast, it packs a powerful punch nevertheless. Here is how my experience with SoloCast was:

First Impressions:

Right off the bat, the Cast, as I like to call it, makes its presence and its intention of being a streaming microphone quite clear. With a plain black body with the HyperX insignia embossed and a simple LED indicator at the front, the SoloCast is a pleasant and simple piece of equipment to look at. Nothing too fancy, nothing too gaudy. But that is where HyperX scores over the rest. Despite having minimalistic aesthetics, SoloCast is powerful and competent hardware and a considerable option for streamers looking to set up their streaming equipment on a tight budget.

Usage:

Since capturing voice and audio as clearly as possible is the goal, HyperX has kept that in focus. Akin to other HyperX aural devices such as headphones, the SoloCast takes the “sound over everything else” approach.” It utilises a single cardioid polar pattern as its name suggests (QuadCast uses four!). It also skips out on some fun parameters in the QuadCast, such as a headphone jack, gain control, shock mount, internal pop filter and complete RGB lighting inside. While the SoloCast does its job perfectly, the lack of these manual controls means you will have to fine-tune its settings using software like OBS or XSplit. If not, a simple plug-n-play also works perfectly well.

Standing almost half as tall as the QuadCast, the SoloCast has a rather compact and easy-going design. Apart from the stand it comes with, it also features a slot for a boom arm, should you wish to mount it so. For other connections, a USB Type-C connection does the job seamlessly. It also has a tap-to-mute sensor on top, allowing the user to quickly mute the microphone if the need arises. The aforementioned LED indicator also displays the status of the mic, so that it isn’t accidentally muted.

Verdict:

HyperX says that it has been certified by TeamSpeak and Discord and there is no doubt about it. The SoloCast is not only versatile, but it is also quite flexible and can be adjusted to fill any spot the user wishes. With a price tag of Rs 5,790, it might seem pricey but it is a pretty value for money deal. Well, that is if you are looking for simplicity and ease of use. It will go on sale on Amazon from January 28th.

Ducati India updates Scrambler family with new, BSVI models

Ducati India today announced the launch of the all-new Ducati  Scramblers in India. The MY21 Scrambler range for India now includes Scrambler Icon, Icon Dark and 1100 Dark Pro at Rs 8.49 Lakh, Rs 7.99 Lakh, and Rs 10.99 Lakh respectively (Ex-Showroom Pan India) respectively. The new series is more contemporary, comfortable, and safer, and further enriches and completes the Scrambler ‘Land of  Joy’ in India.

The Ducati Scrambler Joyvolution continues with the arrival of three new versions: Scrambler Icon, which is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, Scrambler Icon Dark, which represents the ideal gateway “800”  range, and Scrambler 1100 Dark Pro, which is elegant, pure and an utterly customisable bike. For MY21, all the bikes in the Ducati Scrambler family become compliant with BS6 norms.

Commenting on the launch, Mr Bipul Chandra, Managing Director of Ducati India, said, “The Scrambler range has always been a favourite amongst our customers and is the bestselling model range in India. It’s easy riding nature,  oodles of character, and accessible everyday performance make it a great bike for beginners and enthusiasts.  Scrambler Icon and Icon Dark, which are now BS6 compliant, also get a retuned suspension setup which makes it ideal for daily use. I am certain that the new as well as seasoned riders will appreciate these changes. For the purists, we are also launching the Scrambler 1100 Dark Pro, which takes the elements that make the Scrambler range such a joy to ride, a notch above. The reinforced chassis and the Dark Stealth paint job makes the 1100 Dark Pro as good to look at as it is to ride. We can’t wait for people to try our first offerings for 2021 that are meant to be ridden hard, and ridden far!”

On the Scrambler Icon, modern yet authentic materials are combined to perfection. The Scrambler Icon version incorporates the new aesthetics. It is loaded with features including a BS6 803 cc air-cooled L-twin engine, steel teardrop fuel tank with interchangeable aluminium side panels, softer-feel hydraulic clutch control, all-new DRL (Daytime Running Light) headlight which boosts bike visibility in traffic and ergonomic switchgear which makes it easier for the rider to scroll through the menu.

The Ducati Scrambler’s wide handlebars, flat seats and renewed suspension set-up merge to provide a more comfortable and relaxed riding position. The new Cornering ABS maximises active safety while braking, ensuring riders get full-on riding fun.

Riders will also appreciate the new Multimedia System which lets you ride while listening to your favourite music,  answer incoming calls or chat with the passenger on the intercom. The Ducati Scrambler Icon is now available in  “Ducati Red” paint scheme alongside the classic “62 yellow” colour with black frame and black seat.

The Scrambler Icon Dark represents the essentiality of this iconic family of motorcycles: two wheels, wide handlebars, a simple engine and lots and lots of fun. Scrambler Icon Dark is the perfect gateway to the “800”  range, as well as the ideal starting point for creating a personal version of your Ducati Scrambler experience. The  Scrambler Icon Dark is now available in “Matt Black” paint scheme with black frame and black seat with grey trim.

Furthermore, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 Dark PRO represents the entry model to the “Land of Joy” 1100 range. An elegant, pure and utterly customisable bike, characterised by the “Dark Stealth” livery, combined with a tubular steel frame and rear subframe in aluminium, both black. The 1100 Dark PRO has the same iconic and original design as the other two models in the range. Still, it differs from its “big brothers,” in the form of a matt black colour with parts in natural anodised aluminium and rear-view mirrors of classic style. Made to fully transmit some typical elements of the Ducati Scrambler brand, such as purity, essentiality and a sense of freedom, the 1100 Dark  PRO is the right bike to get on the saddle and conquer every road with oodles of style and character.

The Scrambler 1100 Dark PRO incorporates a 1,079 cc engine characterised by a generous torque available from low revs and a 15-litre tank that allows you to tackle even the longest journeys with comfort. In terms of electronics, the new entry of the “Land of Joy” is equipped with Ducati Traction Control (DTC), specially calibrated for this model, and Cornering ABS, which guarantees maximum safety and agility in all types of turns. In addition to that, the three standard Riding Modes (Active, Journey and City) help less experienced motorcyclists to find the right balance in the use of electronic components, choosing their riding style.

While the 2021 models offer a solid starting point, the original Ducati accessories will further enhance the Ducati Scrambler’s creative spirit, which is available at Ducati stores. The Scrambler range also comes with a new apparel line-up which ranges from jackets to t-shirts and ensures that the new motorcycles are enjoyed in style.  Based on the Scrambler line-up, Ducati India already sells the Scrambler 1100 Pro and Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro in India.

Considering the need for the hour, Ducati also started the Ducati Cares Program to welcome customers again to the dealerships and ensure that all safety protocols related to COVID are met at its stores. Bookings for the new Scramblers are now open across all Ducati dealerships in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad,  Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kochi, Kolkata and Chennai and deliveries will begin by 28th January 2021.

Microsoft launches Surface Laptop Go in India

Microsoft has announced the availability of Surface Laptop Go in India from January 22 via commercial authorized resellers, authorized retailers and online partners at a starting price of INR 63,499. Designed to power essential everyday experiences, Surface Laptop Go extends its Surface line-up by delivering standout designs along with the features most loved by our Surface Laptop customers at a more affordable price.

Combining performance, battery life, value and style, Surface Laptop Go is ultra-light with a portable profile comprised of premium materials. Whether for learning or working, the camera, speakers, and mics are being used more now than ever before. For families, students and businesses, Surface Laptop Go offers a premium Surface look and feel at amazing value.

“As the reality of hybrid work and learning environments unfolds before us, the PC continues to play an integral role in keeping all of us connected to our work, school, and lives – and every person today needs a PC. Our goal is to design a Surface for every person, work style and location. With the new Surface Laptop Go, we want to give every person in the household or organization a laptop that’s not just something you need to use, but something you want to use. The Surface Laptop Go is our lightest and most affordable Surface laptop yet that offers the perfect balance of performance, battery life and style,” said Rajiv Sodhi, Chief Operating Officer, Microsoft India.

Sleek design and standout value: The lightest Surface Laptop ever at 1.11 kg helps people do more on a 12.4” PixelSense touchscreen display, full-size keyboard with 1.3mm key travel for an accurate and comfortable typing experience, large precision trackpad and all-day battery life plus Fast Charging, all at an exceptional value. Narrow bezels and the Surface signature 3:2 screen ratio provide more space to work naturally. Available in platinum colour, there is a Surface Laptop Go for everyone.

Familiar features and trusted security: Users can get started with the Windows they love, convenient security of Windows Hello and One Touch sign-in with a Fingerprint Reader Power button on select models. One-Touch sign-in also provides fast, secure access to OneDrive Personal Vault files and more for quick productivity. Amazing sound for music and streaming video and built-in Studio Mics, Omnisonic Speakers, Dolby Audio and a 720p HD camera enhance video calls. Bringing cloud-first device deployment and management to every organization’s IT ecosystem with Microsoft Endpoint Manager and Device Firmware Configuration Interface (DFCI), Surface Laptop Go offers Windows Autopilot to reduce IT complexity by deploying straight to employees.

Get work done with essential apps: Users can power through today’s tasks and tomorrow’s assignments with all their favourite apps, backed by all-day battery life. All configurations of Surface Laptop Go feel snappy and fast, taking full advantage of cloud-connected experiences like Microsoft 365 and online storage. Surface Laptop Go features USB-C and USB-A ports for display and accessory support along with the latest 10th Gen Intel i5 Quad-Core Processor and up to 16GB RAM and 256GB storage, helping users stay productive and connected wherever they are.

BMW India launches the 3 Series Gran Limousine in India. 

BMW India has launched the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine in the country. Produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai exclusively for the Indian market, the car will be available in both petrol and diesel variants at all BMW India dealerships from today onwards. The long-wheelbase ‘Gran Limousine’ is a new addition to the BMW 3 Series family. It takes on the position of the longest, most spacious and comfortable car in its segment and sets a new benchmark in the class. It offers sportiness, comfort and innovation exclusively for the Indian market.

Mr Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The 3 Series is the soul of the BMW  brand and has won over millions of customers around the world. The ultimate sports sedan has now set the ultimate standard in luxury in a new form – the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine.  With its elongated design, enhanced space, luxurious comfort and dynamic performance, the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine has a unique and captivating character. It delivers sheer driving pleasure and indulges in superlative luxury, making it a perfect choice for individuals as well as the family. The Gran Limousine has been tailored with an innovative proposition that will  attract young, progressive Indians who want a perfect combination of sporty performance and  higher practicality for family usage in this segment.”

The new Beamer blends the joy of driving and the outstanding comfort of an extremely spacious sedan. The grandeur rises many notches higher, thanks to a modern design with a larger, elongated body and bigger rear doors. Due to the extended wheelbase,  there is more room to unwind, more legroom for rear passengers and a pleasant seating experience even on long journeys. The powerful engine ensures a thrilling performance and acceleration. The long list of indulgence features, such as Panorama Glass Sunroof, Comfort  Seats in front, bespoke ‘Vernasca’ leather upholstery, luxurious rear seat, Parking Assist with  Reverse Assist, Ambient Lighting, BMW Live Cockpit Professional and Wireless Charging adds to its appeal.

The Gran Limousine is available in two attractive design schemes – Luxury  Line and the exclusive M Sport ‘First Edition’ which is limited to the launch phase only. Luxury Line indulges movement in style and endows elegance. M Sport ‘First Edition’ bestows a  masculine character with distinguished M elements evoking the racing spirit. The additional features of M Sport ‘First Edition’ are BMW Heads-Up Display, BMW Gesture Control, Comfort  Access and Surround-view cameras with 360 view including top, panorama and 3D view.

The exterior body design of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine blends the new,  extremely precise design language and sporting aura of the BMW 3 Series with distinctive proportions. The unique character in long-wheelbase guise stems from an extra 110  millimetres of wheelbase and the associated increase in seating comfort and legroom in the rear compartment. Encompassing an exterior length of 4,819 millimetres and a 2,961- millimetre wheelbase, the exterior dimensions of the new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine outstrip those of any other car in its class.

Creating a striking front look is a large BMW kidney grille with a single surround for the two elements and LED headlights with extended features. BMW’s hallmark sporting prowess is embodied here by short overhangs, a long bonnet and a set-back passenger compartment.
The model’s stretched silhouette underscores its inherent elegance and hints at the enviable spaciousness of the interior. The sporty look is created by the slim three-dimensional L-shaped  LED taillights along with two large freeform tailpipes.

The interior is designed to accentuate grand cabin spaciousness. The rear doors are 110 millimetres longer than those of the BMW 3 Series sedan, allowing for an extra 43 millimetres of legroom in the rear compartment, which sets a new benchmark in the class. The comfort-oriented character is highlighted through improved padding and pampering Vernasca leather upholstery of the rear seats, newly designed headrest and the central armrest between the rear seats. The large 480 litres luggage compartment meets the needs of long-distance travel. The automatic tail-gate operation increases access convenience by enabling the boot lid to be opened/closed at the press of a button.

The M Sport ‘First Edition’ has Comfort Access which goes a step further and allows completely hands-free operation of the boot lid. The Welcome Light Carpet, projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. Added to which, the car comes with illuminated door sill plates. The driver and front passenger settle into electrically adjustable Comfort Seats with Sensatec door trim. The driver-focused cockpit includes a sports leather steering wheel in Luxury Line and M leather steering wheel in M Sport ‘First Edition’ with multifunction buttons along with the instrument cluster/control display grouping. The modern design of the centre console with galvanic embellisher adds to the cabin’s premiumness. Filling up the cabin with a sense of spaciousness is the large Panorama sunroof. Ambient lighting with six dimmable designs creates an atmosphere for every mood. In another model-specific feature, the ambient lighting also includes an illuminated contour strip on the back of the front seats. Three-zone automatic climate control with active carbon filters optimizes air quality. The optimised acoustic properties reduce noise levels and make the journey peaceful.

The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW 330Li produces an output of 258 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,550 – 4,400 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km/hr in just 6.2 seconds. The two-litre four-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW 320Ld produces an output of 190 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km/hr in just 7.6 seconds.

The eight-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency. For even greater driving pleasure, it comes with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking functions. Using Launch Control, ambitious drivers can achieve maximum acceleration with optimized traction from a standstill. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, the driver can choose between different driving modes to suit the driving conditions – ECO PRO,  Comfort, Sport and Sport+.

A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in the automotive industry. Modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes  3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a 10.25
inch Control Display. The occupants can operate several functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. Hands do the talking with BMW Gesture Control that recognizes six pre-defined hand movements for control of many functions (available in  M Sport ‘First Edition’). The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay and  Android Auto ensure seamless smartphone connections with the car to access several functions. The car has a Harman Kardon Surround Sound system with 16 loudspeakers.

The BMW Heads-Up Display in M Sport ‘First Edition’ projects driving-related information onto the windscreen and directly into the driver’s field of view. It employs full-colour graphics and provides a wealth of information to the driver without having to divert their eyes from the road. Parking Assistant with Rear View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier.
Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering. The M Sport ‘First Edition’ features surround-view cameras with 360 view including top view, panorama view and 3D view.

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is available in one diesel variant (BMW 320Ld Luxury  Line) and two petrol variants (BMW 330Li Luxury Line and BMW 330Li M Sport ‘First Edition’)  which are locally produced. The ex-showroom prices are –
BMW 330Li Luxury Line : INR 51,50,000
BMW 320Ld Luxury Line: INR 52,50,000
BMW 330Li M Sport ‘First Edition’: INR 53,90,000
The new BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is available in four exciting metallic paintworks – Mineral White, Melbourne Red, Carbon Black and Cashmere Silver. The choice of upholstery combinations includes Leather  Vernasca Cognac | Black and Oyster | Black.

Mercedes-Benz launches the 2021 GLC in India

Mercedes-Benz today launched the 2021 GLC in India with updates to connected car technology and better comfort and driving assistance. The ‘Mercedes me connect’ technology gets a host of additional feature enrichment. These feature enhancements in the 2021 GLC will help maintain its lead in the mid-size luxury SUV  segment and offer customers a compelling choice in the form of a fully loaded, connected luxury  SUV.

The 2021 GLC is available in both GLC 200 and GLC 220d variants and combines outstanding on and off-road driving characteristics with spaciousness, practicality and comfort. It is an illustration of excellent artisanship of high-quality materials, in combination with a classy and authentic design that attracts immediate attention. Targeted towards tech-savvy urban dwellers and adrenaline seekers, the GLC is one of the most suitable products for them. With 2021 GLC, Mercedes-Benz is introducing two new shades in the GLC colour palette. They are ‘Brilliant Blue’ and ‘High Tech Silver’.

Martin Schwenk, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “The GLC has remained a key pillar of our SUV offence and has been the single highest-selling SUV in our portfolio last year. With 2021 GLC, we now offer a technology superior, feature enriched fully loaded mid-size SUV, which has raised the benchmark for tech, comfort and convenience in the segment significantly. The new intuitive Mmc technology, MBUX Telematics with Hey  Mercedes and new features create a comfortable and best-in car experience. As a customer-centric brand, it remains our endeavour to constantly offer new products and technology that benefit the customers and create a delightful ownership experience. We are confident, with the  technology and feature enrichment, the GLC will continue its customer preference and extend  its lead in the premium mid-size SUV segment.”

Key feature and technology enrichments of the 2021 GLC:

All-digital Instrument Display:

The digital instrument display with a choice of styles like “Classic”, “Progressive” and “Sporty”  provides information, which is important to the driver. The 31.2 cm (12.3-inch) display delivers a pin-sharp image, which is very easy to read in all light conditions. In all styles, the instrument display is divided into different areas. In each case, the driver can adjust these individually to suit their requirements using the various settings options. In this way, they always have a  precise view of what is important to them while they are driving.

Front massage seats:

Introducing in its product portfolio, front massage seats make the journey all the more pleasant. Individually adjustable air chambers adjust just like a tailor-made suit. When you adjust the backrest bolsters so that they are particularly firm, it improves lateral support for sporty driving manoeuvres. The air chambers in the lumbar area can also alternately inflate and deflate, giving a massage with a pulsating effect. The massage functions are adjustable via the media display.

Parking Package with 360° camera:

Parking Assist with 360° camera makes it easier for the driver to manoeuvre effortlessly and park with precision. Thanks to the 360° camera the driver can have a view from every angle around the vehicle. The virtual bird’s-eye view is a smart way to show where the car stands. The combination of the reversing camera and three additional cameras provides the driver with all-round visibility: so you can see the surroundings in front of, alongside and behind your vehicle, on the media display.

Remote Engine Start

With the “Mercedes me” app on the phone, the customers can remotely start the engine, for air-conditioning before the start of their journey. Customers will also be able to track the location of the vehicle, remotely lock or unlock, remotely flash the headlamps, and use the horn to find it in the parking lot. Customers can also open or close windows and sunroof remotely from the app, set speed alerts for other users and enjoy a plethora of other connected services.

Featuring 2021 Mercedes me connect with Alexa, Google Home integration and Parking  location on navigation system

Any conversation with Alexa promises to be more fun as the systems connect with customers  Mercedes Benz via the cloud and provide a real-time update. This feature can be used from an Alexa Echo device set up at the home, office or also from phone’s Alexa App. Some examples that you can  command, “Alexa, Ask Mercedes to lock the car” or “Alexa, Ask Mercedes to start the engine.” Or  “Alexa, Ask Mercedes when is my service due?”

Google Home users can also use Google Home voice assistance with Mercedes me connect. Similarly, once the Mercedes me connect is linked to Google Home, you can start issuing  commands like “Hey Google, ask Mercedes where is my car” or “Ok Google, ask Mercedes to remind  me to buy flowers”

Another introduction is the new Parking solution POIs (Points of interest) across different parts of the cities. One can easily spot a parking lot with the help of the vehicle’s navigation system or even with the maps section on the Mercedes me App.

Timex iConnect Premium Active Smartwatch review: Budget luxury or expensive mediocrity?

American watchmaker Timex has established itself as a premium yet affordable brand with a plethora of watches to choose from. Recently it entered the smartwatch segment with iConnect Premium Active, whose Rose Gold coloured, metal-strapped version we got a chance to review. So, is it budget luxury or expensive mediocrity? Read on.

First impressions:

Right off the bat, the watch bears a strong resemblance to Apple iWatch. Intentional? Probably. Intimidating? Not quite. The watch does feel like a bit of a rip-off, but it has a premium appeal nonetheless. It offers all the basic features present in a smartwatch but fails to stand out among the competition. It is also available with a soft silicone strap, though the flexible stainless steel mesh band looks professional and suave as compared to the alternative. The soft silicone option is available in black as well as pink colour while the stainless steel mesh band is offered in silver or gold finishes. It is claimed to be IP68 water-resistant and displays its data on a 36mm rectangular dial. It has rounded corners for a softer finish and also is complete touchscreen. 

 

Features and usage:

Users can connect the smartwatch to their smartphone via the iConnect by Timex 2 app. The app displays all the data that is collected by the smartwatch. Timex has programmed the iConnect Premium Active Smartwatch with a heart rate sensor, sedentary reminders, activity tracking, sleep tracking, and music playback controls as well. The smartwatch also gives direct notifications for calls, texts, and calendar events. It is charged magnetically via a pair of pogo pins that are placed just beside the heart rate sensor.

While using the smartwatch is not an extraordinary experience, it does its job well, with no complaints there. However, it loses its ground due to the fact that the entire navigation system on the watch is controlled by one button, as opposed to the swipe-based touch function available on other smartwatches. The giveaway is thick bezels and a touch button, sans which it could have looked sleeker. Its measurements aren’t accurate either and tend to miscount the steps and the watch also has a slight lag when measuring the heart rate, though I give it the benefit of doubt there. The sleep tracker, too, feels out of place and a rather forced addition than a genuine accessory. The battery life, however, sticks to its promise of lasting for almost five days, albeit with normal to minimum usage. Then again, what are the chances that you will spend the entire day just operating the smartwatch?

Verdict:

Despite the lag and error in calculation, Timex iConnect Active Premium does its job well, although it will be difficult to justify the price tag of Rs 7295, especially when compared to the much cheaper, yet equally feature-packed alternatives. However, if you are a Timex loyalist or just like to splurge and look fancy, this one is for you!

Kingston Previews NVMe SSD Lineup and Workflow Station with Readers at CES 2021

Kingston Technology today announced the launch of its upcoming NVMe SSD roadmap along with Kingston’s Workflow Station and Readers at the all-digital CES 2021. Despite adopting a new format this year, Kingston will bring its industry-leading SSDs to the forefront for attendees to experience the best-in-class technology virtually. 

Kingston’s Workflow Station and Readers give users the freedom to create and customize a file offload setup that fits their needs, allowing them to transfer video, photos, and audio from multiple sources at once. Whether on a 4K/8K multi-cam shoot with portable audio recorders or filming B-Rolls with drones and GoPros, with a customizable Workflow Station dock, the user can simultaneously connect to the USB miniHub, SD or microSD readers that the shoot requires to transfer footage quickly. Workflow Readers can also be used standalone by connecting to a laptop via the included USB-C cable, giving users the flexibility to have their workflow on-the-go.

“It’s not just the flexibility of the Workflow Station and its readers that is sure to aid content creators, but also the speed,” said Kingston. “Workflow Station products support incredible USB 3.2 speeds, which together with Kingston’s high-performance memory cards and USB flash drives get users through the post-production process faster than ever.”

Kingston is poised to continue its SSD market leadership position with both new clients and data centre U.2 NVMe drives this year. 

The new offerings include its first PCIe NVMe Gen 4.0 SSD as well as an external USB 3.2 SSD:

  • Ghost Tree: Our upcoming High-Performance Gen 4.0 drive is perfect for content creators and power users. Codenamed “Ghost Tree,” Kingston is targeting speeds of 7000MB/s read and write, stretching PCIe Gen 4.0 x4 8-channel to its limit with capacities ranging from 1TB-4TB.
  • NV Series: The latest Gen 3.0 x4 SSD is the ideal entry-level drive for first-time NVMe users with capacities up to 2TB.

  • XS2000: Kingston’s all-new USB 3.2 Gen 2 x2 external drive with 500GB – 2TB storage capacity is perfect as additional storage for photos, videos and other files. The USB Type-C interface allows for super-fast data transfers up to 2,000MB/s.

  • DC1500M: The Data Center 1500M is an update to the DC1000M adding support for multi-namespaces. The U.2 NVMe SSD is designed to support a wide range of data-intensive workloads including cloud computing, web hosting and virtual infrastructure.
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