Android 7.1.2 beta released, Razer acquires Nextbit, Oppo A57 launched in India - PhoneBunch Daily

By Abhinav Pathak on Jan 31, 2017 05:24 PM

Here are all the updates for the day starting with new Android update, Razer acquiring struggling smartphone maker Nextbit, and new upcoming smartphones in India in this PhoneBunch Daily.

Android 7.1.2 Beta Released

Google today started rolling out Android 7.1.2 Nougat beta update for the Nexus and Pixel devices. Currently, you can install the update on the Pixel, Pixel XL, Nexus 5X, Nexus Player and Pixel C tablet. The Nexus 6P will get the update later. However, Nexus 6 and Nexus 9 will not be getting any further updates and will remain stuck at Android 7.1.1. This is just a maintenance release with bug fixes, but no new features. You can head over to the Android Developers website and sign up to receive the OTA update.

Razer Acquires Nextbit, will let it continue as a separate unit

Razer, the enthusiast gaming peripheral and PC manufacturer today announced that it had acquired a majority stake in Nextbit Systems Inc. and will also be onboarding the current management as well as employees. Financial details on the deal are still not available but Razer confirmed that, Nextbit will continue as a separate business unit. However, Nextbit will stop selling its Robin smartphone and all accessories. Software updates and support for already sold devices will be available for the next 6 months. Could this be Razer's way of saying they are working on a new gaming-focused smartphone or tablet? It may just be.

Fitbit to let go of 6% of its workforce amid disappointing Q4 financials

Fitbit today announced that it will be slashing 6% of its workforce which translates to 110 employees due to poor fourth quarter results. Fitbit expected to make $725 - $750 million in Q4 according to previous guidance, however, now the forecast has been slashed to about $572 - $580 million with 6.5 million units sold. Fitbit is also cutting expenses and reorganizing its business structure to bear the brunt of the disappointing quarter.

New Smartphone Launches - January 2017

From disappointing sales, acquisitions, and updates, now, let's get to some new smartphone launches.

Oppo A57 with 16MP Front Camera

Oppo today launched the A57 in India with 16MP front camera running on Snapdragon 435 octa-core processor with 3GB RAM and 32GB onboard storage. The Oppo A57 has a 13MP rear camera as well and a 5.2-inch 720p HD IPS display. It has been priced at Rs. 14990 and will be available starting February 3rd from all major retailers.

Intex Aqua Amaze+

Intex has launched another 4G VoLTE capable smartphone in India today. The Aqua Amaze+ packs a 4.7-inch HD display running on a Spreadtrum SC9830A Cortex-A7 processor with 1GB RAM, 8GB internal storage, which pretty much sets it in the budget category. It has 5MP front and rear cameras, and a decently sized 2000 mAh battery. It even runs Android Marshmallow out of the box. But priced at Rs. 6290, you would be way better off with the Redmi 3S for Rs. 6999.