Advertisement

Samsung Galaxy A25 5G Spotted at GCF Certification Ahead of Upcoming Launch

The successor to the Galaxy A24 4G aka. Galaxy A25 5G is in the making, and plenty of leaks and rumors are already around. It is rumored to arrive in less than a month with a 120Hz AMOLED display, a new chipset, and several other improvements. The listing on GCF Certification confirms its 5G bands (n1, n3, n7, n8, n20, n28, n38, n40, n41, n77, n78), and NFC.

Must See: Samsung Galaxy A15 4G launch imminent, visits NBTC

Further, the GCF Certification once again corroborates with the stories of its upcoming launch.

It’s been months since we started hearing about the Galaxy A24 5G smartphone. Most of the device specifications are also public, but it awaits an official announcement scheduled for the next few weeks.

Samsung Galaxy A25 5G Specifications (Expected)

Expectedly, the smartphone will feature a 6.5-inch AMOLED display with 1080p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. It will arrive with a 5000 mAh battery with expected 25W fast charging support. In the camera department, the smartphone could come with a triple rear camera setup consisting of a 50MP primary sensor with OIS support, an 8MP Ultrawide sensor, a 2MP macro lens, and a 13MP Selfie camera on the front.

It is highly likely to debut with the Exynos 1280 SoC which is already present in Galaxy A53 5G and Galaxy M33 5G smartphones. It will bundle 5G connectivity, NFC, GPS, and Bluetooth 5.1 support. The smartphone will house a side fingerprint scanner for easy authentication.

As per information from WinFuture, the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G could launch for $315 for a 6GB RAM and 28GB storage variant. There will be a slight price increase for the 8GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. The device is already on the shelves of some online retailers in Switzerland but is slated for launch early next month. It will launch in India as the device has already appeared on BIS India.

Related:

(via)

Stable One UI 6-Based Android 14 Now Rolling Out To Verizon-Activated Galaxy Z Fold 5 In US

Samsung has started rolling out the stable One UI 6-based Android 14 update to the Galaxy Z Fold 5 for users in the US. Along with the fifth-generation foldable phone, the Galaxy Z Flip 5, S23 FE, and the Galaxy A54 are also among the devices receiving the latest stable software update. The rollout that is underway is a good news for owners of Samsung phones. The OneUI 6 was announced last month and it comes with a host of new features and changes. 

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 gets stable Android 14 update

Samsung Galaxy S23 One UI 6 Beta Update

The One UI 6-based Android 14 update is rolling out to Galaxy Z Fold 5 users on the Verizon carrier. The update notification is appearing for users in a phased manner and it should be available for everybody across the carrier’s network soon. If you own a Verizon-activated Fold 5 in the US, you can check it by heading to Settings > System Update > Download and Install. If there is no prompt to update, users can find out if an update is available by tapping on Check for Updates. 

The OneUI 6-based Android 14 update for Galaxy Z Fold 5 in the US has the version number F946USQU1BWK9. Alongside the various new software changes and features, the update also brings the November 2023 security patch. It’s expected that the latest update will make its way to all carriers and unlocked units in all countries very soon. 

The latest update for Verizon also details the changelog for the Z Fold 5. The OneUI 6 is said to be the biggest software update from Samsung. It introduces a new quick settings panel, picture and video previews in the share panel, multitasking improvements, camera improvements, widgets, bixby text call, and more. Read on to know all the new features in the One UI 6 here.

Related:

Realme GT 5 Pro Camera Specs Confirmed with Enhanced Optical Zoom

Realme is hyping its next flagship smartphone aka. Realme GT 5 Pro by teasing some of its specifications and features. After shedding some light on the Miracle Cooling System and the presence of Qualcomm’s latest flagship chipset, the Realme today teases the Realme GT 5 Pro’s camera capabilities.

Must See: Realme GT 5 Pro with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 teased to launch globally

As per the teaser, the smartphone is set to ship with the 50MP Sony IMX890 periscope telephoto lens with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) support. It is capable of offering up to 2.7x Optical Zoom and up to 120x overall zoom.

The smartphone was recently spotted on Geekbench coupling the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. However, the score itself undershadowed our expectations, but it’s the first run on Geekbench and we expect it to improve with further tweaks and optimization. It scored near 1500 points for the single-core test and the multi-core score remained lower than 5000.

Realme GT 5 Pro is expected to feature a Miracle Cooling System which will feature a 10,000mm² heat dissipation unit. Further, there will be a BOE-customized curved-edge 6.78″ 1.5K display supporting a 3,000 nits brightness rate. It will offer up to 240W fast charging feature.

The official launch is just a few hours away, and we have to just wait for the official specifications and pricing confirmation.

Related:

(source)

Honor Pad 9 tablet gets certified in UAE

A new Honor tablet could be in the works. The device in question is the new Honor Pad 9 model. But ahead of any official announcement, the company’s upcoming tablet has visited a certification platform in the UAE.

Honor Pad 9 spotted on TDRA

The Chinese smartphone maker’s upcoming Pad 9 tablet surfaced on the TDRA certification platform. Looking at the online listing, the device can be seen carrying the model number HEY2-W09. The certification has also revealed that the tablet will be a Wi-Fi only device similar to its predecessor, the Honor Pad 8. This model launched back in 2022, so it’s about time that Honor released a new tablet.

Honor Pad 9

Earlier this year, the brand had also launched the Honor Pad X9. Unfortunately, the Honor Pad 9’s latest sighting on the TDRA does not reveal any finer details regarding the upcoming device. The Honor Pad 8 was announced with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 SoC and sports a tall 12-inch IPS LCD panel. So we can expect similar specs and features for the successor but with improvements across the board.

These improvements could be in the form of a newer and more powerful chipset, a larger battery, improved camera sensors, or higher resolution. Keep in mind that this is still just speculation at the moment, so take this report with a pinch of salt and stick around for more updates.

RELATED:

(Via)

Periscope zoom camera confirmed for Realme 12 series

Realme is gearing up to launch the Realme GT 5 Pro in China as its next-gen flagship smartphone. Ahead of that, the company has been teasing the features of this device.

Earlier today, the brand held a press conference in China to talk about the handset’s periscope zoom camera. At the event, the company revealed that a similar camera will be also offered on its upcoming number series phone.

Let’s go through the details shared by Realme.

Realme Periscope Zoom Camera

Realme confirmed that the Realme GT 5 Pro will be equipped with a periscope zoom camera. The device will use a 1/1.56-inch 50MP Sony IMX890 sensor.

This sensor will be paired with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) and will support software-based EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization). Finally, it will allow users to click pictures with up to 120x magnification (digital).

At the very end of the presentation, Realme disclosed that the GT 5 Pro will not be the only phone from the brand to use a periscope camera. The company will use a similar camera on one of its number series devices as well.

This less-expensive handset will be fitted with an OmniVision OV64B sensor. Unfortunately, this is the only information Realme has shared so far.

As per leaks, this more affordable phone will be Realme 12 Pro Plus. It is expected to offer 3x optical zoom, just like the Realme GT 5 Pro.

Realme says that the GT model will offer a leading zoom camera experience. On the other hand, the number series handset will popularize zoom cameras.

The brand is yet to announce the launch date for either of these products. But we are certain that the GT 5 Pro will be made official in the next few days.

RELATED:

Apple iPhone 16 Pro could get Tetraprism 5X zoom camera, hints Analyst

Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple might include the 5X tetraprism camera in next year’s iPhone 16 Pro which is one of the exclusive features of this year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max. It comes from the yield rate improvements of Apple’s periscope camera supplier, Largan’s tetraprism lens assembly. Reportedly, the yield for the said equipment has increased from 40% in 3Q23 to 70% in 4Q23.

Huawei might be the next big player to adopt Largan’s periscope equipment

iPhone 15 Pro Max tetraprism

Largan’s exclusive position as the supplier for the tetraprism camera lens for the iPhone 15 Pro Max initially faced challenges, with a production yield of only 40% in the third quarter of 2023. This led to negative gross margins and a dip in EPS. However, Kuo’s recent surveys indicate a substantial improvement in yield to 70% or more, turning the tetraprism lens assembly profitable and a major contributor to fourth-quarter EPS.

The expected 2023 EPS of ~150 significantly surpasses the conservative market consensus of 130–140. Looking ahead to 2024, the camera equipment manufacturer is expected to gain more shares for periscope camera lenses, especially from two key players — Apple and Huawei.

Apple’s inclusion of a tetraprism camera in the iPhone 16 Pro is expected to drive a staggering 160% YoY growth in iPhone shipments featuring this advanced camera technology. Huawei, with its upcoming Huawei P70 series featuring periscope cameras and powered by its own Kirin chips, is also anticipated to witness a 100% YoY shipment growth in 2024.

Largan, holding primary supplier status for both Apple and Huawei, is expected to gain supply shares of 85–90% and 50–60%, respectively.

The improvements in yield for Apple’s tetraprism lens assembly from 3Q23 in 4Q23 hints a significant 130% increase in total periscope orders for the manufacturer in 2024.

Related:

(Source)

Samsung Galaxy A15 4G launch imminent, visits NBTC

Samsung is preparing to launch new smartphones from its popular Galaxy A series. The Galaxy A15 4G is one such model, with its launch expected to be near since it was spotted on a certification platform in Thailand. So here are all the details.

Samsung Galaxy A15 4G surfaces on NBTC

The latest sighting was on NBTC, which reveals that the device carries the model number SM-A155F. The South Korean tech giant’s Galaxy A15 4G model was previously spotted on the FCC database. This listing revealed that it features a 25W fast charging rate. Some of the key specifications of this smartphone were also revealed on GeekBench listing.

Samsung Galaxy A15 4G

The Galaxy A15 4G will apparently be equipped with the MediaTek Helio G99 SoC that is paired with 4GB of RAM. This model will even feature Android 14 OS based One UI custom skin out of the box. On the popular benchmarking platform, the handset scored 743 points in the single core test and 2005 points in the multi core test. The Galaxy A15 4G is expected to be the direct successor of the Galaxy A14 model.

In other words, we can expect the device to also offer a triple camera setup. Recently, the Galaxy A15 5G model was also leaked online. This includes leaked renders, GeekBench listing, specifications, and even pricing leaks. Unfortunately, no official announcement has been revealed at the moment, so stick around for more updates.

RELATED:

(Via)

Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro passes through NRRA Korea, Powerful Notebooks on the way

The Korean giant is soon pushing new notebooks in the market via the Galaxy Book 4 Series. These have already appeared on multiple public certifications, and some leaks have fully unleashed specification details of the upcoming Galaxy Book 4 Series laptops. As the launch is nearing, it apparently paved it way to Korea’s NRRA Certification website.

Must See: Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro Hits Korean Safety with Actual Product Image

Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro with model code NT960XGL is manufactured in Vietnam as per the listing documents. There are three derivative models NT960XGLZ, NT960XGP, and NT961XGL. Apart from this, the listing does confirm the nearing launch.

The next generation of Galaxy Book branded notebooks is expected to launch in five different models. The lineup will consist of the Galaxy Book 4, Galaxy Book 4 360, Galaxy Book 4 Pro, Galaxy Book 4 Pro 360, and the Galaxy Book 4 Ultra. As per the previous report, these will feature Intel’s latest Meteor Lake and Raptor Lake CPU which were recently announced.

Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Series Specifications (Rumored)

It is highly likely that the standard Galaxy Book 4 and the Galaxy Book 4 360 could debut with the Intel Core 5 120U (Up to 5.0 GHz 12 MB Smart Cache). Meanwhile, the Galaxy Book 4 Pro and the Galaxy Book 4 Pro 360 will make it to the market with the Intel Core Ultra 7 155U (Up to 4.8 GHz 24 MB Smart Cache). The most powerful Galaxy Book 4 Ultra will make a debut with Intel Core Ultra 7 155U (Up to 4.8 GHz 24 MB Smart Cache).

The screen size of these notebooks will vary, the Book 4 and Galaxy Book 360 will house a  15.6-inch FHD LED display with 1920 x 1080 pixels resolution. The Galaxy Book 4 Pro 360 Will feature a 16-inch WQXGA Touchscreen AMOLED having 2880 x 1800 pixels resolution.

These are likely launching with Windows 11 on board early next year as the current-gen Galaxy Book 3 Ultra was announced earlier this year.

Related:

(via)

Samsung starts seeding One UI 6 Update for the Galaxy Z Flip 5

The stable One UI 6 update for the latest foldable is finally out, following the Galaxy Z Fold 5, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is now receiving the update in the US. Samsung is actively bringing new updates for its flagship and mid-range smartphones including the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S22, and Galaxy A54.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

The update for Galaxy Z Flip 5 is currently limited to the US, and may soon reach to broader audience in different regions. Surprisingly, the update is available for the carrier-locked Verizon Galaxy Z Flip 5 smartphone with firmware version F731USQU1BWK9.

Alongside the new luxuries of Android 14 and Samsung’s newly backed feature, it also bundles the latest November 2023 Security Patch. We expect the update to arrive for both the locked and unlocked variants in the Stateside within a few weeks.

The update currently weighs 3GB in size, and it is recommended to switch to a Wi-Fi network to save on carrier data costs. The users can always manually check for the update by heading over to Settings > Software Update > Software Update and Install and then the Download and Install option.

One UI 6.0 Features

There are massive change list that is part of the OneUI 6.0 update. The user will get a fully overhauled Quick panel design, a new notification design, new fonts, and much more. A much more dynamic Lock Screen with an improved clock widget is part of the parcel. Some stock apps have also been tweaked with new features and functions to further enhance the overall user experience on One UI 6.0.

Quick panel

- The Quick Settings layout has been updated to enhance usability.

Weather Widget

- A new weather widget was added to provide weather forecasts and insights.
You can now check the local weather on a map without adding current location.

Call

- Added Bixby text call button to easily switch to text calling. Bixby Text call must be first enabled in Call settings.

Camera

- Added separate picture resolution button in Camera quick settings menu. Now you can now easily change picture resolution by tapping the 12M button.

- Added separate video size button in Video quick settings menu. Select Video mode and tap the FHD 30 button at top to show more options.

- Added "Swipe up/down to switch cameras" button in Camera settings. This will turn on/off the swipe gesture to switch between selfie and rear cameras.
OS

Gallery

- Added Details button (i) in Gallery to easily view image information. Optional AI enhancements such as "Remaster" and "Object eraser" are added to the Gallery details page for quick editing.

- Save an image as a sticker. Tap an object in an image, then an options menu will appear > Select Save as sticker. Next time you use Photo Editor, the saved sticker will show in your sticker options from Gallery.

- Added a Document scanning option in Gallery. Select the T button in the bottom right corner to start scanning.

Video Player

- When you pause a video, you can create a sticker from a single frame of video. Tap an object in the image, then an options menu will appear > select Save as sticker. The next time you use Video Editor, you can add this sticker to your videos.

Photo Editor

- Added More menu (3 dots) in the top right corner for easy access. Added AI tools button (first stars editing icon) to quickly use edits/effects.

- Added Straighten and Perspective options to the image rotation menu, so the image angle and horizontal/vertical correction can be performed at the same time.

- Easily tap or draw around any object you want to keep in the picture. Select AI tools > Lasso > tap or draw the object desired.

Video Studio

- Video Editor has be renamed to "Video Studio" and can be easily found in the Gallery Menu tab. Select Go to Studio and add Studio to the app screen for easier access.

- Easily edit the videos on one screen using the quick editing elements: text, stickers, audio, etc.

Calendar

- Easily create recurring events with repeat recommendations for anniversaries, birthdays and other events.

- Added Schedule view to see a snapshot of events within a period.

- Reminders can now be created directly in Calendar.

Reminder

- Reminders are now categorized so you can easily view the Reminder by time segment.

Battery and Device Care settings

- Battery and Device Care settings settings are now separated in Settings menu for quicker access.

Security and Privacy Settings

- Added descriptions for each category in Security and Privacy dashboard. Removed Scan button as the information is automatically updated when user opens Security and Privacy settings.

- Auto Blocker menu has been added to block threats and suspicious activities when enabled. 

We expect the update to arrive in other regions soon.

Related:

(source)

Redmi K70e to feature a 5,500mAh battery and 90W fast charging

Xiaomi is set to unveil the highly anticipated Redmi K70 lineup in its home market of China soon. Now, a fresh teaser from the company has revealed the battery specifications and fast charging rates of the Redmi K70e. So here are all the details.

Redmi K70e Battery and Charging Specs

The brand shared a new teaser on its official Weibo account (a Chinese microblogging website). Looking at the teaser, the Redmi K70e will pack a 5,500mAh battery pack. Furthermore, this device will even offer 90W fast charging rates. Redmi also adds that the new smartphone comes with Xiaomi’s proprietary battery technology, which ensures 90% battery health even after 1,000 heavy loads and long cycles.

Redmi K70e

To achieve this long lasting battery, the company uses a high energy density battery that is paired with a smart charging algorithm to extend the battery life. But despite the large battery pack, the Redmi K70e will still measure just 8.05mm in thickness. Just recently, the front design of the smartphone was revealed during a performance test video.

In another previous report, we covered the full specs leak of the device as well. So the teaser confirms the battery and charging specs. It will sport a 6.67-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it will be equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 Ultra SoC, which is paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. It is worth noting that the Redmi K70e model could be a rebranded POCO F6 5G for the global market.

RELATED:

Vivo V30 Lite to launch with 4,700mAh battery & 44W fast charging

Vivo is gearing up to unveil the V30 series of smartphones soon. But ahead of the announcement, it was revealed that the V30 and V30 Pro won’t be the only models being launched in the lineup. The Vivo V30 Lite will reportedly arrive as the entry level smartphone and even had some of its specs revealed. So let’s have a look.

Vivo V30 Lite Specs

According to a new report, the Chinese tech giant is planning on launching the V30 Lite alongside the V30 and V30 Pro soon. The device will support 5G networking and will apparently be available in two storage configurations, namely 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB. A 4,700mAh battery pack is expected to power this smartphone, which will even offer 44W wired fast charging.

Vivo V30 and V30 Pro

Connectivity options include dual band WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, and USB Type-C for charging. The Vivo V30 Lite is rumored to run on the Android 13 OS out of the box. The report hints that the model could also be a global variant of the previously announced Vivo V29e, which first debuted back in October. If this is true, then we can expect the V30 Lite to sport a tall 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.

Under the hood, the V29e is equipped with the Snapdragon 695 SoC. The rear features a 54-megapixel dual camera setup, while the front houses a 50-megapixel selfie shooter. Keep in mind that this is still just an unconfirmed report, so take this news with a pinch of salt for now. In related news, the Vivo V30 was recently spotted on GeekBench with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC and even surfaced on the IMEI database alongside the higher end V30 Pro.

RELATED:

Amazon Echo Buds 2023 gets tap-to-start playlist feature via a new update

In May 2023, Amazon released several new Echo products. It consisted of a TWS earphone and three brand-new smart speakers. The third generation of the Echo Buds was also included in the launch, which goes by the name Amazon Echo Buds.

Now, a new software update is rolling out for Amazon Echo Buds 2023 (3rd generation). The latest update brings new features to the earbuds.

To begin with, you can now tap the earphones to start a suggested playlist, eliminating the need for you to fumble with your phone or even say aloud to ask Alexa for assistance.

Amazon Echo Buds gets served with tap-to-start playlist feature via a new update
Amazon Echo Buds gets served with tap-to-start playlist feature via a new update

Amazon Echo Buds 2023 OTA Update

Playlists may be started with a single long press or a triple tap, which can be customized in the Alexa app’s settings. Simply, open the Alexa app, head to the Echo Buds device settings, and then search for the audio customization choices.

Considering that Amazon claims to get the playlist by contacting “your preferred audio provider,” it appears that this functionality is compatible with all of the main streaming services. To get started, simply search for “Tap Controls” in the Echo Buds device settings.

Additionally, a new audio personalization feature allows you to adjust the sound and your physical surroundings. To create a richer sound, you may adjust the frequencies to emphasize the bass when taking a walk.

Even better, you can tune each ear separately from the other, so your right ear can have a different frequency range or be louder than your left.

According to the company, this setup takes around four minutes. It’s also important to note that the 2023 model and the 2021 second-generation Echo Buds are compatible with this capability.

Related:

MSI MAG 401QR 40″ UWQHD monitor launched in China with 155Hz refresh rate for 2999 yuan ($422)

MSI has unveiled its newest creation – the MAG 401QR monitor. It offers a 40-inch flat screen with a stunning UWQHD resolution. The MAG 401QR is currently available for 2999 yuan ($422). The MAG 401QR is for an immersive display solution.

MSI MAG 401QR is a combination of size, resolution, and advanced features

MSI MAG401QR
  • Panel Type: IPS Panel
  • Resolution: 3440×1440
  • Aspect Ratio: 21:9
  • Refresh Rate: 155Hz
  • Response Time: 1ms

The monitor achieves remarkable color accuracy with 94% DCI-P3, 90% Adobe RGB, and 118% sRGB. It is also HDR 400 certified, meeting the entry-level standards for HDR-capable monitors. This certification guarantees a peak brightness of at least 400 nits, dynamic metadata adjustments for varying scenes, and global dimming capabilities. MSI also promises sharp colors and detail up to 178° wide viewing angle.

MSI MAG401QR ports

The MAG 401QR offers a variety of connectivity options, including 2 x HDMI (2.0b), 1x Display Port, 1x USB Type C, 1x USB Type B, and 2x USB 2.0 Type A ports. The USB Type-C connection not only facilitates device power-up (up to 65W) but also ensures effortless connectivity. This means fewer cables cluttering your workspace.

Users can enhance their experience with the MSI Remote Display software, available for download from MSI’s official website. This software allows users to remotely set display parameters using their mobile phones. Adding a touch of flair, the MAG 401QR comes with RGB lighting on the back.

Related:

Oppo Find N3 Flip Review: Clamshell with Great Cameras

Oppo entered the clamshell foldable smartphone category about a year ago in December 2022, in China. The company’s first offering, dubbed Oppo Find N2 Flip, later made its way to global markets, starting in February 2023.

At launch, the Find N2 Flip had one of the largest cover screens on flip-style foldable smartphones. And like non-Samsung foldables, it had a teardrop hinge for a minimal crease.

Eight months later, the brand debuted Find N3 Flip at the end of August in its home country. Beginning in October, the phone was also made available in India and other countries.

Oppo Find N3 Flip

The latest model improves upon its predecessor in quite a few areas. It is the only flip-style foldable with a triple-camera system and houses a slightly more powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9200 chip.

Just like the Find N2 Flip, Oppo India sent us a unit of the Find N3 Flip to try out. Having used the handset for about two weeks, I have shared my thoughts on it in this article.

Before I note down my experience, I would like to let readers know that the company had no early look or editorial input. Also, I am dividing this review into three segments, talking about the device’s use case, pros, and cons.

Why do clamshell foldable smartphones make sense?

Primarily, there are two types of foldable phones. The first, commonly referred to as book-style foldables, has a horizontal folding screen that unfolds into a tablet. The second one sports a vertical folding display and unfolds into a regular smartphone.

The Oppo Find N3 Flip falls into the second category. The most popular product in this segment is Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip lineup. Ever since foldables became mainstream, these handsets have been bestsellers.

The primary reason behind the success of clamshell foldable phones is their affordability compared to book-style foldables. For instance, the Oppo Find N3 Flip is priced at ₹94,999 in India, while its competitor, the Galaxy Z Flip 5, starts at ₹99,999. In other words, they cost about the same as non-folding flagship smartphones like Galaxy S23 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus.

In terms of the use case, it is generally considered that foldables that offer a larger canvas when needed satisfy many user needs. But clamshell foldables are not far behind in terms of practicality either.

I have always adored flip-style foldables since their inception. After having used the Find N3 Flip for the last few days, my love for them has only increased. They elevate the overall smartphone experience when compared to a regular slab phone. 

First and foremost, they take up less space in your pockets and bags. Due to their small form factor when folded, they are comfortable to hold in hands for a longer duration.

Further, you don’t need a kickstand case or a stand for your desk, as the handset itself can sit on any flat surface. I found this feature quite useful, as I used the phone conveniently by placing it at desired angles on tables in my house and other places. 

Thanks to a larger cover screen and software features, a lot can be done on the device when it is unfolded. Also, ending calls by folding the phone shut with a ‘thud’ sound is satisfying, and it even folds flat without a gap in between.

As for fashion enthusiasts, I don’t think there’s any other handset on the market as stylish as clamshell foldables. Whenever I used the device in public, it lured people’s attention due to the ‘wow factor’ or novelty associated with it.

Similarly, this type of smartphone is well-suited for someone looking to detox from social media. Because you need to unfold the device every time, in addition to picking it up in hand. Finally, for those who can afford it, I believe flip-style foldables are strong contenders for a fun secondary smartphone.

How Oppo Find N3 Flip is different from competitors?

Oppo markets the Find N3 Flip as a camera smartphone, and the device delivers on that front. I used the handset’s cameras more than anything else.

The camera hardware on the rear is the same as the one found on the OnePlus 11 (review). The phone arrives with an OIS-assisted 50MP Sony IMX890 main sensor with 2x in-sensor zoom, a 48MP Sony IMX581 ultrawide unit with autofocus, and a 32MP Sony IMX709 2x telephoto shooter with 5x in-sensor zoom.

The selfie camera also uses the same sensor as the zoom camera. Lastly, the image processing is tuned in collaboration with Hasselblad, just like on other premium handsets from Oppo and OnePlus.

This camera system is probably the best on a clamshell foldable smartphone to date. In fact, I would argue that the overall camera experience is better than what you get on premium slab smartphones like the iPhone 15 and Galaxy S23.

I reached out to Find N3 Flip every time I wanted to take pictures, even though I had an iPhone 15 alongside. The dynamic range, colors, white balance, and contrast are well-balanced. The images don’t come out too natural or overprocessed.

The pictures have enough details and almost no noise. The cameras also perform well under low-light conditions and often come out better than the aforementioned slab handsets.

Above all, it’s fun to use the Oppo Find N3 Flip for photography, thanks to its cover display. By using ‘Dual Preview’, you can take various types of shots. Your creativity is the limit. This feature is very useful for group shots, especially when you couple it with a timer and ‘Interval Shooting’ (burst mode).

Almost all the images I clicked on the handset are in portrait orientation. Because the device screams at you to fold it 90° (L-shaped) to take pictures.

Talking about performance, the phone does not stutter and offers a smooth experience like any other premium smartphone. This is made possible by a MediaTek Dimensity 9200 chip and well-optimized ColorOS 13 software based on Android 13. The 6.8-inch 1-120Hz LTPO FHD+ (2520 x 1080 pixels) display with a not-so-visible crease also contributes to smoothness.

You can make good use of the 3.26-inch cover screen as it can open many popular apps, including the likes of Gmail, YouTube, Google Maps, WhatsApp, X, and Telegram to name a few. And, of course, you can also access notifications and quick toggles.

Additionally, you can customize the external display with live wallpapers, AOD, and ‘Interactive Pets.’ The latter bit is so cute, and almost everyone I showed it to was impressed.

Finally, the network reception and 5G performance are solid, just like the battery life from the 4,300mAh battery. The device can easily last a day even with excessive camera and mobile hotspot usage, or even more if you use it conservatively. It even charges 20-100% within an hour with the bundled charger (up to 44W).

In a nutshell, cameras have been the weakest link on most clamshell foldables. However, it is where the Find N3 Flip shines. This makes it stand out among competitors.

What could have made Oppo Find N3 Flip better?

Not every product is perfect, as there are always some drawbacks. The same applies to the Find N3 Flip as well. But I am happy to say there aren’t many major cons, except for one thing.

The Oppo Find N3 Flip is no doubt well-built. But I wish the hinge was a bit tighter. It feels loose compared to what you get on Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 5 and its predecessors.

Also, the hinge cannot hold the phone folded at extreme angles like Samsung’s offerings. I hope Oppo improves the hinge further on its next-gen clamshell foldable.

Then, there are minor issues that can be fixed with future software updates if the company wants to.

To keep the thermals low, Oppo limits video recording to 1080p 30fps when you use ‘Dual Preview’. Similarly, the device doesn’t let you take the above-discussed burst shots, even if it gets a little warm, as a precaution. 

Clamshell foldables don’t have enough space inside to dissipate heat. So they are expected to get warmer. To mitigate this, Oppo throttles the performance, especially while running high-demand applications like games. 

It’s not wrong for the company to be cautious. However, it would be better if the brand offered an option to let users decide via a future software update.

Last but not least, competitors have moved on to a larger external display with a better resolution. The smaller screen on the Find N3 Flip is definitely useful, but I could clearly notice the lower resolution, though regular customers probably won’t.

Should you buy the Oppo Find N3 Flip?

The answer to this is yes. If you want a clamshell foldable smartphone with the best cameras, the Oppo Find N3 Flip should be your pick.

Oppo Find N3 Flip

It even boasts a stellar battery life for this form factor and a faster charging speed than competitors. Further, the software is well-optimized and is assured to receive 4 Android updates and 5 years of security updates.

Unfortunately, the Oppo Find N3 Flip is not as widely available as the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 or even the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra (review). In that situation, Samsung becomes the default option given its sheer presence and eye-catching deals from retailers and carriers.

RELATED:

Realme V50, Realme V50s December launch expected; Specifications, prices, images emerge before official unveiling

By the end of this month, Realme will unveil the Realme GT 5 Pro flagship phone featuring the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip in China. In December, the brand will announce the Realme V50 series of entry-level 5G smartphones in the country. The China Telecom listings of the unannounced Realme V50 and Realme V50s that are now available reveal that both phones will go on sale by Dec. 10. Ahead of the expected release date, the China Telecom listings have revealed the specifications and prices of both smartphones.

Realme V50 and Realme V50s
Realme V50 (left) and Realme V50s (right)

Back in August, Realme phones with model numbers RMX3783 and RMX3781 were spotted in the database of China’s TENAA certification platform. The China Telecom listings confirm that these devices will be called the Realme V50 and Realme V50s, respectively, when they arrive on the market. The Realme V50 series packs the same specs and design as the Realme 11x 5G available in India. However, the Indian mainly differs in the camera department, wherein it offers a 64-megapixel primary camera.

Realme V50, Realme V50s specifications (rumored)

As per the China Telecom listing, the Realme V50 has a 13-megapixel primary camera and a 2-megapixel auxiliary camera. It has an 8-megapixel front-facing camera. The device is equipped with a 6.72-inch LCD panel that offers an FHD+ resolution and supposedly a 120Hz refresh rate.

The Dimensity 6100 Plus chipset-powered device will arrive with up to 8 GB of RAM, up to 256 GB of storage, and a 5,000mAh battery that seemingly supports 18W charging. It will come with other features, such as a side-facing fingerprint scanner and Android 13 with a layer of Realme UI on top.

The Realme V50 will arrive in Midnight Black and Dawn Purple shades. It will arrive in various configurations, such as 4 GB RAM + 128 GB storage for 1,199 Yuan, 6 GB RAM + 128 GB storage for 1,399 Yuan, and 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage for 1,799 Yuan.

Regarding the Realme V50s, it shares identical specifications, variants, and pricing with the V50. How Realme plans to distinguish between the two smartphones is yet to be revealed.

RELATED:

(source 1, 2)

Vivo Y12 launched with HD+ display, Helio G85, 5,000mAh battery

A Vivo phone with the model number V2317A was recently approved by the TENAA authority in China. The listing revealed the complete specifications of the phone, along with its images. It has finally been officially released under the name Vivo Y12. Here’s a look at what’s in store for buyers of the Y12.

Vivo Y12 4G specifications and features

Vivo Y12 4G
Vivo Y12 4G

The Vivo Y12 4G features a 6.56-inch LCD waterdrop-notch display that offers an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels. Under the hood, it is powered by the MediaTek Helio G85 chip, accompanied by 6 GB of LPDDR4x RAM. The device offers ample storage with 128 GB of eMMC 5.1 storage, expandable via a microSD card slot.

In terms of imaging capabilities, the Vivo Y12 features a dual-camera setup on the rear, consisting of a 13-megapixel primary lens, a 2-megapixel depth sensor, along with an LED flash, complemented by an 8MP front camera for capturing detailed selfies. Security features include a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and face unlock.

The Vivo Y12 4G is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, supporting 15W charging via a USB-C port. Additionally, it retains the convenience of a 3.5mm audio jack. It runs on Origin OS 3, based on Android 13. The device’s dimensions measure 163.74 x 75.43 x 8.09mm, weighing 186 grams.

Vivo Y12 4G price and availability

Priced at 999 Yuan (~$140), the Vivo Y12 4G is available in two colors, such as Wild Green and Crystal Purple.

In related news, Vivo has just launched the Vivo X100 series of smartphones in the Chinese market. Speculations are rife that the brand will unveil the Vivo S18 series of smartphones in December in China. The S18 is expected to feature the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, whereas the S18 Pro may arrive with the Dimensity 9200 Plus chipset.

RELATED:

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE gets One UI 6.0 based on Android 14

Three weeks ago the latest version of One UI based on Android 14 was made available for the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra. The Galaxy S23 Series were the company’s first batch to receive an Android 14 update.

Now, Samsung has released the stable version of One UI 6.0 based on the Android 14 OTA update for the Galaxy S23 FE. The latest version of One UI 6.0 was previously available for beta testers only, but it is now being made available to all Galaxy S23 FE users in the region.

The Exynos Galaxy S23 FE, which is available in most regions, is the first to receive the update. However, the Snapdragon variant will probably follow soon and shouldn’t be left behind.

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE gets One UI 6.0 based on Android 14
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE gets One UI 6.0 based on Android 14

One UI 6 features a ton of new features, including substantial visual alterations to the Quick Settings panel, the Lock Screen, and the Notification panel. It also adds a new video editing software called Studio, a unique Auto Blocker mode to increase device security, and a number of other little enhancements.

Here is where you can find out more details about One UI 6 features.

The update is being rolled out in phases and will be in other regions in the coming weeks. To check for the update, Go to Settings > Software Update and tap Download and Install.

Another way to update the phone is to use a USB-C connector and a Windows PC to flash the Android 14 firmware.

Related:

(Via)

Fulsolen A01 Series EV Charger: Revolutionizing Electric Vehicle Charging with Smart Solutions

Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers are crucial for advancing sustainable transportation, and fostering the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. These chargers form the backbone of a cleaner and more energy-efficient future by providing essential infrastructure for EV users. By facilitating convenient and accessible charging, they accelerate the transition away from traditional fuel sources, contributing significantly to the reduction of carbon emissions. EV chargers play a pivotal role in creating a greener, more environmentally conscious transportation landscape, essential for combating climate change and promoting a sustainable global energy paradigm.

So let’s check to new EV chargers from Fulsolen. The best part is both chargers are available at discounted prices under the ongoing Black Friday Sale. Please note that this deal ends on 30 November. 

Fulsolen A01 40A EV Charger

Fulsolen A01 EV charger

Fulsolen A01 40A EV Charger is a versatile and powerful Level 2 electric vehicle charging station tailored to meet the diverse needs of North American electric vehicle owners. The charger is designed to accommodate a wide range of electric vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks, complying with SAE J1772 standards, and even providing compatibility with Tesla vehicles through an adaptor.

With its NEMA 14-50 and NEMA 5-15 adaptors, the Fulsolen A01 offers the flexibility to charge your electric vehicle at various outlets, supporting 120V and 240V installations. This versatility makes it a practical choice for home charging or on-the-go use, ensuring that electric vehicle owners can power up wherever they are.

Installation of the Fulsolen A01 is hassle-free, with options for both indoor and outdoor use. Electricians can easily mount the charger on the wall or make it portable, providing users with convenience and adaptability based on their preferences.

Scheduled charging becomes a seamless experience with the Fulsolen app, allowing users to set up a charging schedule that aligns with cost-effective off-peak times. The charger also offers three charging modes, including plug-and-charge, remote control via the app, or physical control through the equipment screen. This provides users with convenient options to initiate charging sessions.

Security features are paramount, with the Fulsolen A01 incorporating an anti-theft protection system. Users can lock the charger through the mobile app, preventing unauthorized use and ensuring the security of their charging station.

Safety is a top priority with multiple built-in protections, such as over-voltage, under-voltage, overheating, over-current, leakage, grounding, lightning, fire and flame, waterproof, dustproof, and antistatic protection. The charger is fully certified with UL 2594, UL2231-1, UL2231-2, CSA C22.2 No.280, CSA C22.2 No.281.1, CSA C22.2 No.281.2, FCC, FCC ID, and Energy Star, providing users with confidence in its reliability.

In terms of dimensions, the control box measures 9.53 x 4.15 x 2.66 inches, while the overall package dimensions are 17.72 x 16.14 x 7.28 inches. The Fulsolen A01 40A EV Charger stands as a trustworthy and efficient charging solution, offering an optimal blend of user-friendly features, safety measures, and compatibility.


Fulsolen A01 32A EV Charger

Fulsolen A01 32A EV Charger, a Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charging Station designed for seamless and efficient charging experiences. With its versatile features and certifications, this charging solution caters to a wide range of electric vehicles while prioritizing user convenience and safety.

Designed for compatibility with a majority of electric vehicles in North America, including Sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks compliant with SAE J1772 standards, the Fulsolen A01 32A EV Charger ensures broad accessibility. Tesla owners can also benefit from its inclusivity through the provided adaptor.

Equipped with versatile adaptors, including NEMA 14-50 and NEMA 5-15, the charger accommodates both 120V and 240V outlets, making it an ideal choice for electric vehicle owners who travel frequently. Its flexibility extends to installation options, allowing for easy setup by a qualified electrician, whether wall-mounted or portable.

Optimizing cost-effective charging is made easy with the Fulsolen app, enabling users to set a convenient charging schedule, especially during off-peak times. The charger provides three modes of operation – plug-and-charge, remote control via the app, or physical control through the equipment screen, offering users flexibility and control over their charging sessions.

Security is a priority with the inclusion of an anti-theft protection feature. Users can utilize a secure lock on the app to prevent unauthorized charging, ensuring the safety of their charging stations.

Safety is paramount with the Fulsolen A01 32A EV Charger, which features a comprehensive set of protection measures. These include safeguards against over-voltage, under-voltage, overheating, over-current, leakage, grounding issues, lightning, fire, and flame, as well as waterproof, dustproof, and antistatic protection.

Certified with UL 2594, UL2231-1, UL2231-2, CSA C22.2 No.280, CSA C22.2 No.281.1, CSA C22.2 No.281.2, CE, FCC, FCC ID, and Energy Star, the Fulsolen A01 32A EV Charger offers users confidence in its reliability and safety.

In terms of dimensions, the control box measures 9.53 x 4.15 x 2.66 inches, while the package dimensions are 16.73 x 15.94 x 6.69 inches, ensuring a compact and efficient design.

Fulsolen A01 32A EV Charger provides a comprehensive solution for electric vehicle charging, combining compatibility, flexibility, security, and safety in a user-friendly package.

Redmi K70E front design is revealed by its performance test video

The performance tests of the Redmi K70E have just surfaced online. The video showcasing the Redmi K70E provides a glimpse of its front design, featuring an ultra-narrow edge flat display. The display appears to maintain an equal width on three sides, with a slightly wider chin at the bottom. Notably, the middle frame also adopts a flat design. It represents a unified design aesthetic, which is expected to be consistent across the K70 series.

Redmi K70E offers a flat design following the industry trend

Redmi K70E front design

This design approach has been well-received in the market, especially following its successful implementation in some recent flagships such as the Xiaomi 14.

While the Xiaomi 14 comes with a price tag exceeding 4000 yuan ($560), the Redmi K70 series aims to bring the flat design aesthetic to a more budget-friendly range. This ensures that users with varying budgets can still enjoy the modern design without breaking the bank.

The Redmi K70E introduces another noteworthy feature as the world’s first to be powered by the Dimensity 8300-Ultra model. The Antutu running score for this device achieves an impressive 1,526,328 points, showcasing its substantial processing power. In performance-intensive scenarios, such as running “Genshin Impact” at 720p, the device maintains an impressive 58.9fps. So it may very well offer a great value with the combination of both.

Under the hood, the Dimensity 8300 utilizes TSMC’s second-generation 4nm process. The CPU configuration includes 4× Cortex A715 + 4 Cortex A510 + 4 × Cortex A510, featuring a CPU frequency reaching up to 3.35GHz. Complementing the powerful CPU, the GPU is a Mali-G615 MC6, contributing to an outstanding overall performance.

In summary, the Redmi K70E emerges as a budget-friendly powerhouse, combining cutting-edge design elements with powerful hardware, setting the stage for a new standard in midrange smartphones.

Related:

(Source)

Redmi K70e full specifications leaked before official announcement

A hands-on video showcasing the front design of the upcoming Redmi K70e has surfaced on Weibo. The video provides a detailed look at the device, highlighting its flat screen with ultra-thin bezels and rounded corners. The design is expected to be similar to the Redmi K70 and K70 Pro, which are expected to launch alongside the K70e. Unfortunately, it does not reveal the rear design of the smartphone.

REdmi K70e front-
REdmi K70e front-

The hands-on video shows how the Redmi K70e, which uses the Dimensity 8300-Ultra chipset, performs in a variety of benchmark tests like AnTuTu, Geekbench, 3D Mark, and others. Since the video is in Chinese, specific details may require translation for a comprehensive understanding. Here is a look at the Redmi K70e specifications that have emerged through the hands-on video.

Redmi K70e specifications (rumored)

The Redmi K70e will feature a 6.67-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2712 x 1220 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 12-bit color depth, a manual maximum brightness of 500 nits, and a theoretical peak brightness of 1200 nits, and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. In terms of design, it will sport a glass back flanked by a plastic frame. It will measure 8.09mm in thickness and weigh around 198 grams.

When it comes to photography, the Redmi K70e includes a 16-megapixel front camera, an OIS-enabled 64-megapixel primary rear camera, an 8-megapixel camera for ultrawide shots, and a 2-megapixel macro camera.

The Dimensity 8300-Ultra powered smartphone will have a 5,500mAh battery and support rapid 90W fast charging. The device will be offered with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage options up to 1TB.

When compared to last year’s Redmi K60e, the Redmi K70e’s screen resolution has been reduced from 2K to 1.5K, while the charging speed has been increased from 67W to 90W. It is speculated that the Redmi K70e will be rebranded as the Poco F6 5G in the global market.

RELATED:

(source)