Initial responses to Apple’s iBeacon technology have been decidedly mixed, but that doesn’t necessarily mean anything. After all, exactly the same was true of the iPod, iPhone and iPad in certain quarters upon their release.

Regardless, with Apple keen to push the tech and a number of venues enthusiastic about embracing it, it was only ever going to be a short amount of time before the marketplace rivals started popping up.

Back in September in the aftermath of the iPhone 5s’s debut boasting the world’s first 64-bit smartphone chip, Qualcomm representative Anand Chandrasekher called a 64-bit ARM chip a “gimmick.” Just three months later, Qualcomm’s announcing one, the Snapdragon 410, opening the door for 64-bit Android devices.

ASUS is rumored to be officially unveiling its scaled down Padfone variant, the Padfone Mini, at a dedicated event in Taiwan scheduled to take place this Wednesday, December 11. However, today a leaked press render of the device has appeared online, revealing some rather drastic design changes when compared to the original.

HTC is reportedly looking to turn its back on Qualcomm and purchase its smartphone processors from other manufacturers instead. The company has already launched two entry-level Desire devices with ST-Ericsson and Spreadtrum Shark chips, but it could be looking for cheaper alternatives to high-end processors as well.

Oppo’s latest Android-powered smartphone, the N1, was announced back in September, and now the handset is on the market to purchase from several retailers in China. However, there’s only 10,000 units at our disposal, so stock is destined to be a tad sparse.