This week, leaks signaled the ubiquitous tech giant Samsung has the intention to elevate user experience in the upcoming Galaxy series with faster charging. OnePlus, not to be outdone, was embroiled in anticipation and speculation around its newest flagship, the OnePlus 12. Not to be left behind, Infinix is setting the stage for its gaming-centric GT series, while Xiaomi is inching closer to an automotive breakthrough, preparing to make a debut in the electric vehicle market. Honor also launched a bunch of products including a super thin foldable smartphone.
In the midst of these advancements, the tech cold war between Russia and the U.S. marked a significant shift, with Russia placing a ban on Apple products for official use.
In our weekly review, we’ll delve into these developments and their wider implications, bringing you the highlights and the nuances that define the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Here were the top stories from last week:
Samsung’s Exynos 2400 SoC Set for Major Upgrade with 10-Core CPU
Samsung’s Exynos 2400 chipset aims to compete against Qualcomm’s Snapdragon and Apple’s M2. The new chipset, expected to feature a 10-core CPU configuration, will be optimized for various tasks. Despite initial plans to use the Fo-WLP packaging method, it will reportedly use the I-Cube process. With Samsung set to launch the Exynos 2400 with the Galaxy S24 series, the chip is expected to significantly enhance its performance reputation, potentially nearing the benchmark scores of the Apple M2.
Huawei’s Strategic Comeback to the 5G Market
Defying the impact of the U.S. ban, Huawei plans to return to the 5G smartphone industry. The company aims to sidestep U.S. restrictions by utilizing its semiconductor design tools and partnering with China’s Semiconductor Manufacturing International Co (SMIC) to produce 5G chips domestically. Despite potential production challenges, Huawei is poised to overcome these and regain its place in the competitive 5G market. The move marks a significant turning point in the company’s journey, potentially re-establishing its position in the smartphone industry.
Honor Unveils Thinnest Foldable Smartphone, a High-End Tablet, Smart TV, and New Watch
Honor recently launched several products: the Magic V2, acclaimed as the thinnest foldable smartphone to date; the MagicPad 13, a high-end tablet featuring the Snapdragon 888 processor; the Smart Screen 5 TV, a premium 4K smart TV with a 144Hz refresh rate and MagicOS; and the Honor Watch 4, equipped with eSIM support and a 10-day battery life. These launches signify Honor’s ambition to extend its product portfolio across multiple tech domains.
Russia Bans Apple Devices for State Use Amid Tech Tensions
Russian authorities have banned the use of Apple devices for official state purposes, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign-made technology. The ban, enforced by the trade ministry, applies to all government employees across various agencies, although personal use is still permitted. The decision comes following allegations by Russia’s Federal Security Service that Apple devices were used in a large-scale “spying operation by US intelligence agencies.” While Apple denies these claims, this move aligns with Russia’s broader efforts to transition to domestically developed software by 2025. The implications of this ban on US-Russia tech relations remain to be seen.
Huawei Unveils AI Model to Boost Computing Power in China
Huawei has revealed its self-developed AI model running on AI-powered processors, hoping to rival services like ChatGPT and alleviate China’s shortage of computing power amidst sanctions and restrictions. The new Pangu AI model, unveiled at the Cloud Developer Conference, targets broad industrial applications. It leverages the Ascend AI processors and MindSpore AI framework, intending to provide an alternative to the Nvidia graphics option and cut lead times. Despite similarities, Huawei clarifies that the Pangu AI model is not a competitor to ChatGPT, focusing more on enterprise clients. The move is seen as a significant relief for Chinese tech firms grappling with U.S. sanctions.
Tata Group Set to Acquire iPhone 14 Assembly Factory in India
Tata Group is on track to purchase Wistron Corp’s Karnataka factory, the assembly plant for the iPhone 14. Upon successful acquisition, Tata will be the first Indian company manufacturing iPhones for both local and global markets. This move aligns with India’s efforts to become a dominant player in hardware manufacturing.
MediaTek Unveils Dimensity 6100+ SoC for Lower-Mid-Range Devices
MediaTek expands its 6000 series with the launch of the Dimensity 6100+ SoC. Distinguished by its remarkable power efficiency, the Dimensity 6100+ SoC leverages a 4nm-based manufacturing process. The chipset offers impressive features, including support for vibrant displays, high frame rates, AI-powered camera technologies, and reliable Sub-6 5G connectivity.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Series Tipped to Feature Faster Charging Speeds
Samsung’s next-generation Galaxy S24 series is rumored to feature significantly improved charging speeds, according to a tip from RGcloudS. Current Samsung Galaxy S23+ and S23 Ultra models support a 45W charging speed, but the Galaxy S24 series could potentially reach up to 65W, utilizing stacked battery technology found in electric vehicles.
OnePlus 12 Reportedly Set for December 2023 Debut in China, Global Launch in Early 2024
Rumor suggests that OnePlus will launch its latest flagship, the OnePlus 12, in China in December 2023, with a global launch in early 2024. The phone is expected to feature 150W wired and 50W wireless fast charging capabilities, a 2K curved OLED display, and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. In addition, OnePlus is reportedly developing its first foldable phone, the OnePlus Open.
Infinix Preparing Transparent, Gaming-Centric Phone like Nothing: GT 10 Pro+
Infinix is reportedly developing a new series of gaming-focused smartphones, the GT 10 Pro and GT 10 Pro+, for the Indian market. Live images shared online reveal the Pro+ model to feature a transparent back, similar to Nothing’s Phone (2), and random orange patterns. More details in the original article.
