Vivo is expected to unveil the Vivo X300 Ultra in March this year in China. However, recent sightings suggest that its global arrival is also close at hand. The device was first spotted on the IMEI database, followed by its appearance on Europe’s EEC certification platform. Now, the Vivo X300 Ultra has bagged yet another certification, further strengthening expectations of an imminent global launch.
Vivo X300 Ultra certified in Indonesia
The Vivo smartphone, model number V2562, has received TKDN certification in Indonesia. While the listing does not reveal any specifications or hardware details, it is a strong indication that the device is gradually clearing regulatory hurdles ahead of its official debut.
For those unaware, the Vivo X300 Ultra is expected to be the company’s first Ultra-branded flagship to launch in global markets, unlike the X100 Ultra and X200 Ultra, which remained China-exclusive.
Vivo X300 Ultra specifications (rumored)
Vivo X200 Ultra
Camera performance is shaping up to be the biggest highlight of the X300 Ultra. Recent leaks suggest that it will feature a 200-megapixel Sony LYT-901 primary camera with OIS, paired with a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-828 ultra-wide sensor and a 200-megapixel Samsung HPB periscope telephoto camera.
One of the major highlights of the X300 Ultra will be the multi-focal-length continuous optical zoom feature, which is expected to offer greater everyday usability compared to competing implementations, including Xiaomi’s approach. On the front, Vivo is tipped to include a 50-megapixel selfie camera with autofocus, catering to high-quality video calls and content creation.
The device is said to feature a 6.82-inch flat BOE display with around 2K resolution, LTPO technology, and four-sided narrow bezels. Powering the phone will be Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, positioning it firmly in the flagship segment.
In terms of endurance, the X300 Ultra is expected to pack a massive battery of around 7,000mAh with fast charging support. Another notable change is the removal of the dedicated Action button seen on the X200 Ultra, a move reportedly aimed at freeing internal space and improving overall practicality.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
iQOO is preparing something a little different this year. For the first time, the company is adding an “Ultra” model to its flagship number series, and the upcoming iQOO 15 Ultra has already appeared in regulatory listings ahead of launch.
The phone has now been spotted on China’s 3C certification platform, confirming support for 100W fast charging. While that detail alone is limited, it suggests the device is nearing an official release.
Fortunately, reliable tipster Digital Chat Station shared a detailed spec sheet for the iQOO 15 Ultra on Weibo earlier today.
iQOO 15 Ultra Specifications
According to the leak, the phone will use a large 6.85-inch Samsung M14 display with a 2K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. It’s a flat, straight screen rather than a curved one, which should be good news for people who care about touch accuracy, especially in games.
Powering the phone is said to be Qualcomm’s next-generation Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. On top of that, iQOO is also including its own Q3 gaming chip, which should handle things like frame rate control and power efficiency while gaming.
iQOO 15 Ultra poster-
The phone’s optics system will feature a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. Of course, this isn’t the sole lens, but details on other sensors are still under the hood for the time being.
Moreover, the leak also mentions a 7,000mAh or larger battery, which is huge by flagship standards. This is combined with 100W wired charging and support for wireless charging.
There are also some extra hardware features. The phone is said to include a built-in active cooling fan, similar to what you see on dedicated gaming phones. It will also have physical shoulder buttons for extra controls during shooting or aiming in games.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
SK Hynix plans to accelerate the launch of its new semiconductor facilities in response to growing global demand for memory chips. The company confirmed that it will open its first chip factory in Yongin, South Korea, three months ahead of schedule, targeting February 2027. It will also begin operating its new M15X fab in Cheongju next month to produce high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips.
The move comes amid a sharp rise in demand for HBM, which is used in AI systems developed by companies like Nvidia and AMD. SK Hynix is currently one of the leading HBM suppliers and a key partner in OpenAI’s Stargate project. Prices for some memory products have jumped more than 300% over the past year, according to TrendForce data, placing additional pressure on chipmakers to increase production.
SK Hynix is also investing $13 billion in a new packaging and testing facility named P&T7, which will be built in Cheongju near the M15X plant. Construction is scheduled to begin in April 2026, with completion expected by the end of 2027. The company aims to improve efficiency by enabling direct transfer of DRAM modules from M15X to P&T7 for final packaging.
The expansion is part of SK Hynix’s broader efforts to scale production and reduce reliance on external foundries. The Yongin facility is one piece of a planned $407 billion “Semiconductor Cluster” that will include four fabs.
SK Hynix stated that it reviews its production strategy on a monthly basis and is observing a shift among hyperscaler customers toward multi-year supply agreements, rather than traditional one-year deals.
The company currently holds over 60% of the global HBM market. As AI-related demand continues to grow, SK Hynix is positioning itself to maintain its lead by expanding its domestic capacity and accelerating deployment timelines.
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Gaming laptops have come a long way from bulky, battery-draining machines that barely fit in a backpack. In 2026, the landscape is more competitive and nuanced than ever, with powerful hardware, sleek designs, and aggressive pricing tiers. But with that evolution comes an increasingly complex set of trade-offs: Do you prioritize raw performance, a lightweight build, battery life or value? So let’s unpack the current landscape of gaming laptops and breakdown things you need to consider before buying a gaming laptop in 2026.
At the core of every gaming laptop is its performance, and in 2026, this means next-gen CPUs and GPUs that are closer than ever to desktop-class power. The leading laptops are now powered by Intel’s latest Core Ultra Series 3 or AMD’s Ryzen AI HX 400 series processors, along with Nvidia’s RTX 50 series GPUs. These chips deliver high framerates in demanding titles, handle real-time ray tracing without catastrophic slowdowns, and even support AI-driven features like upscaling, automatic tuning, and generative in-game assets.
But one of the biggest improvements in recent years is not just about performance, but also sustained thermal performance and improved battery efficiency. Advanced cooling technologies are now standard in mid to high range gaming laptops. Meanwhile, these notebooks are also based on the latest silicon that offers both performance and endurance. Pair this with larger batteries, and you get devices that are perfect for gaming and everyday use.
However, some of these benefits, like better cooling mechanism, bigger batteries, and more wattage, can lead to heavier builds. So if maximum framerate and future-proof models are your top goals, you can expect to pay top dollar for notebooks like Dell’s latest Alienware Area-51.
2. Portability: Slimmer & Lighter
ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 gaming laptops
Portability usually meant thin-and-light laptops that brought reliable performance and battery life, but sacrificed performance. But in 2026, gaming laptops aren’t the chonky rigs like in the past. Manufacturers have gotten smarter about power efficiency and internal design. We now see laptops that weigh under 2kg yet still house capable hardware, thanks to a combination of AI performance scaling, dynamic boost tech, and smaller process nodes.
A great example of this is the 2026 ASUS Zephyrus G14 and Zephyrus G16. The G14 is a compact model that weighs just 1.5kg, despite packing up to an Nvidia RTX 5080 GPU and Intel’s Core Ultra Series 3 CPUs. So you get performance on the go, gorgeous OLED displays, and gaming aesthetics as well. In other words, it hits a great balance between performance and portability. However, these gaming notebooks can’t hit higher wattage like the thicker and heavier laptops dedicated for high end performance.
3. Price: The 3rd Important Pillar
ASUS TUF Gamnig A14
Gaming laptops have historically carried premium price tags, and with these recent improvements, pricing has gone up even higher. With the ongoing RAM and GPU shortage, some models cost an arm and a leg. So you can expect to pay around $1000 for any high end gaming laptop. But this doesn’t mean you’re all out of options. Even below this figure, you can expect to see great options from last-gen models that are still quite capable.
Furthermore, keeping an eye on bundle deals, seasonal discounts, and manufacturer promotions can significantly shift value in your favor. You can even wait for newer mid-tier gaming laptops that can likely compete with some of last year’s flagships. A gaming laptop can be your daily driver in 2026, although a true flagship power is still premium. But there are still new budget gaming laptops in the market that just debuted during CES 2026. A great example is the ASUS TUF Gaming A14.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Sharge has launched the Companion Pro (machine translated), a compact and travel-ready power bank that supports up to 45W fast charging. The device is now available in China for 239 yuan ($34).
Sharge Companion Pro Specifications
The Sharge Companion Pro has a compact build with a semi-transparent matte finish that minimizes fingerprints. Its rounded edges make it comfortable to hold, while the White and Black color options offer a quirky yet refined look compared to typical power banks.
The power bank is equipped with a 10,000mAh battery using a dual-cell configuration. Each cell is rated at 5,000mAh, with a total energy of 36Wh. The rated output capacity is 5,700mAh, which can charge most smartphones about twice. Sharge uses Lishen 21700 cylindrical lithium cells, which are known for their reliability.
The power bank supports up to 45W fast charging through its USB-C port and built-in USB-C cable. It also includes a USB-A output with up to 22.5W support, while input charging reaches 30W for faster recharging.
The built-in USB-C cable pulls out for direct use and tucks away neatly for storage. This design helps reduce clutter and makes it easier to carry without needing extra accessories.
The power bank measures 80 x 50 x 35.8 mm and weighs around 225 grams. It has passed China’s 3C safety certification and is approved for carry-on use on flights and high-speed rail.
The device is also compatible with multiple generations of iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and AirPods, offering reliable fast charging across Apple’s product ecosystem.
IKEA is expanding its audio portfolio with a compact, portable speaker that goes beyond typical single-device playback. On its own, the IKEA Kallsup is a tiny cube shaped Bluetooth speaker that stands out by its bright yet minimalistic design. But one of its highlighting features is its ability to pair up with 99 more of its kind.
IKEA Kallsup portable Bluetooth speaker specifications
While IKEA hasn’t confirmed the full feature list yet, the speaker’s small footprint and lightweight design suggest it’s intended for everyday use. The Kallsup features a compact design that measures 2.75 x 2.75 x 2.75 inches in dimensions and uses plastic for its build. It supports USB-C charging along with Bluetooth 5.3. There are also two small physical buttons for controls. On a single full charge, the IKEA Kallsup can offer up to 9 hours of audio playback at 50 percent volume.
IKEA Kallsup Bluetooth speaker
But what truly sets it apart is the scalable audio system. By itself, it is a tiny speaker that can barely cover a room, but when paired with multiple other Kallsup speakers, it can cover larger rooms, outdoor spaces, or everyroom in the house. That one tiny speaker can connect with up to 100 other units of the same model, which offers a massive boost in sound output.
This feature can also be useful for public events, pop-up venues, or collaborative listening setups where coverage is crucial. IKEA hasn’t shared a precise release window yet, but this model will go on sale in the US for just 10 US Dollars in April 2026. It is also available in multiple bright color options, namely hot pink, bright green and white. In related news, this launch arrives after the brand released the IKEA Solskydd circular wireless speaker and IKEA Kulglass Lamp speakers.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
After skipping a non-foldable premium smartphone in the Edge 60 lineup, Motorola introduced a brand new device called the Signature. This device brought high end specs and features packed in a sleek new design that doesn’t compromise on battery or aesthetics. Now, it seems like the brand is planning on bringing this device to the Indian market next week, with a hefty price tag. So here’s what we know.
Motorola Signature India Launch Date & Pricing
Ahead of any official announcement, a new leak from known tipster Sanju Choudhary revealed the India launch date and pricing details of the upcoming flagship. We already have an idea regarding its features, and the fresh tip claims that the Motorola Signature will be released in the region on 23rd January 2026. He further adds that Motorola’s latest premium phone will carry a hefty price tag of Rs 84,999. This is roughly about 941 US Dollars or 808 Euros.
Motorola Signature
To recall, the Signature initially launched in Europe for 999 Euros. The expensive pricing is for the 16GB + 1TB storage configuration. It is unclear whether the brand will offer cheaper variants, but considering how the global release only saw the announcement of the 1TB option, this might be the lone variant in India as well. Based on what we know so far, the Motorola Signature will likely sport a tall 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate.
Under the hood, it packs the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, while a sizeable 5,200mAh battery pack powers this device. You also get 90W wired fast charging and 50W wireless fast charging. For optics, the rear has a 50MP LYT828 main camera along with a 50MP ultra wide angle lens, and a 50MP LYT600 periscope telephoto shooter on the rear. Other notable features include a slim 6.99mm body, 186 grams heft, NFC, dual speakers, Bluetooth 6, and USB 3.2.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Huawei reclaimed the No. 1 position in China’s smartphone market in 2025, marking its first full-year lead since 2020 after recovering from years of US sanctions.
Huawei and Apple were separated by just 0.2 percentage points, underscoring extremely intense competition at the top of China’s smartphone market.
China’s overall smartphone shipments declined in 2025, with rising component costs and slower upgrades creating a tougher outlook for brands in 2026.
AI-Generated Image
Huawei reclaimed the No. 1 spot in China’s smartphone market in 2025, marking its first full-year leadership since 2020. According to data from International Data Corporation (IDC), Huawei captured a 16.4% market share with shipments of 46.7 million units, narrowly beating Apple’s 16.2%.
The comeback comes after years of pressure from US sanctions and signals a major shift in the world’s largest smartphone market. Huawei’s recovery was driven by its return to 5G, growing use of in-house Kirin chips, and a strong premium lineup led by the Mate and Pura series. IDC noted that improved domestic chip production played a key role in boosting shipments.
Apple finished a close second, helped by strong demand for the iPhone 17 series, and even ranked No. 1 in China during Q4 with a 21% market share. Vivo placed third, followed by Xiaomi and Oppo, while Honor dropped out of the top five.
Despite intense competition, the overall market continued to shrink. China’s total smartphone shipments fell 0.6% year-on-year to about 285 million units. Rising memory chip prices and higher production costs forced several brands to raise prices or delay launches.
Looking ahead, analysts warn that 2026 could be even tougher, with slower upgrades, higher costs, and fiercer competition—making Huawei’s new crown harder to defend.
The successor to the Vivo V60 series is arriving soon. But ahead of any official announcement, the Vivo V70 and Vivo V70 Elite just surfaced in a fresh leak that revealed their expected India launch timeline and some key features. So here are all the details.
Vivo V70, V70 Elite India launch timeline leaks
The latest information arrives from known tipster Yogesh Brar, who shared the details on X (formerly Twitter). In his tweet, he claims that the upcoming Vivo V70 lineup will debut in the Indian market sometime in mid February 2026. Brar adds that the rumors of the January release are baseless. Furthermore, both models will feature Snapdragon chipsets and Zeiss optics for improved photography.
Vivo V60
Based on what we know so far, the base Vivo V70 is expected to pack the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chip, while the new V70 Elite model could get the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC. The older Vivo V60 series debuted with Zeiss optics, so it’s no surprise that the successor also continues this collaboration. Both models are also rumored to run on the Android 16 OS based OriginOS 6 custom skin out of the box.
Yogesh Brar claims that a Vivo V70 FE model will join the V70 lineup, but its release will be at a later date. Apart from this, the only other info shared was about “plenty” of upgrades planned for this new lineup. In related news, the Vivo V70 FE recently bagged the Bluetooth SIG certification along with the iQOO 15R and iQOO Z11x 5G. Meanwhile, the Vivo V70 Elite was spotted in India’s BIS database.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
iQOO is all set to launch the iQOO Z11 Turbo in China tomorrow. The company has already shared several key specifications on its official Weibo page, including details focused on the phone’s display and gaming performance.
According to official teasers, the iQOO Z11 Turbo will support Honor of Kings with native 144Hz high frame rate mode and the highest graphics settings. The phone has passed KPL tournament device certification, allowing it to meet the performance standards required for competitive mobile gaming. It also supports 1.5K plus 144FPS super-resolution and super-frame concurrency.
The phone supports 4D game vibration and screen lighting effects in large open-world titles. The display uses iQOO’s second-generation eye comfort technology, with low motion blur tuning and multiple dimming options.
The iQOO Z11 Turbo features a slim and lightweight design with a 6.59-inch mid-size display. The body measures 74.42mm in width for improved grip. The Extreme Night Black variant is 7.9mm thick and weighs 202g. Despite the slim profile, the device includes a large 7,600mAh Blue Ocean single-cell battery.
iQOO uses the same fourth-generation silicon anode battery technology found in the iQOO 15. The battery also features second-generation semi-solid-state tech that improves endurance and reduces degradation. The company claims that low-temperature discharge performance improves by 6.5% compared to the previous generation at −20°C.
The iQOO Z11 Turbo supports 100W fast charging with Global Direct Drive Power Supply 2.0. The feature allows the phone to charge during gameplay with lower heat output, aiming to improve thermal management.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced on X that the company will stop selling Full Self-Driving (FSD) as a one-time purchase after February 14. After this date, FSD will be available only as a monthly subscription, marking a major change in Tesla’s software strategy.
What’s Changing
Until February 14, customers in the US can still buy FSD outright for $8,000 or subscribe for $99 per month. Once the deadline passes, the upfront purchase option will be removed entirely. In China, FSD currently costs 64,000 yuan as a one-time purchase, while a subscription option has not yet been launched.
Why Tesla Is Making the Shift
The move aligns FSD with Tesla’s broader software-as-a-service model. A subscription lowers the entry cost, allows users to pay only when they need it, and removes the idea of FSD as a permanent, appreciating asset tied to the car.
Current Level of FSD
FSD was introduced in 2016 and has evolved from basic Autopilot into an advanced driver-assistance system. However, it is still officially classified as Level 2, meaning drivers must stay alert and in control at all times.
Future Plan
FSD subscription growth is also tied to Musk’s long-term compensation plan, which requires 10 million active FSD subscribers over the next decade.
Tesla’s shift ends the promise of FSD as an “investment” and reframes it as a paid software service, more flexible, but no longer permanent.
Humanoid robots crossed a commercial threshold in 2025, and 2026 will be the year the industry begins to scale, according to Counterpoint Research. The firm estimates that around 16,000 humanoid robots were installed globally in 2025, with China accounting for more than 80% of deployments, underscoring the country’s early dominance.
The market is already consolidating fast. Counterpoint notes that the top five manufacturers control 73% of the global share, four of them Chinese. AGIBOT leads with 31%, supported by over 5,000 units produced and active deployments in hotels, entertainment, and industrial logistics. Unitree Robotics follows with 27%, leveraging cost-efficient designs and rapid go-to-market execution. UBTECH, Leju Robotics, and Tesla each hover around the 5% mark, with Tesla expected to gain momentum as Optimus production ramps.
Looking to 2026, Counterpoint expects a shift from early commercialization to capacity expansion and cost compression. Larger factories, falling component costs, and growing adoption of Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) models are set to lower barriers for enterprise customers.
By 2027, Counterpoint forecasts the global installed base will exceed 100,000 units, with logistics, manufacturing, and automotive sectors absorbing 72% of new annual capacity, positioning humanoid robots as a meaningful force in global industrial productivity.
Xiaomi has begun rolling out the HyperOS 3 update to a new set of devices. This HyperOS 3 build is different. It’s based on Android 15, which recently began rolling out to the Redmi K60 and Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro series and is now expanding to more devices, including the Xiaomi 12 series, Xiaomi 12S series, and others.
The HyperOS 3 build, based on Android 15, is currently only available in China. Here are the latest Xiaomi devices that are getting this update, along with the firmware versions (as shared by Xiaomi Time):
Xiaomi 12: OS3.0.2.0.VLCCNXM
Xiaomi 12 Pro: OS3.0.2.0.VLBCNXM
Xiaomi 12S: OS3.0.2.0.VLTCNXM
Xiaomi 12S Pro: OS3.0.2.0.VLECNXM
Xiaomi 12S Ultra: OS3.0.2.0.VLACNXM
Xiaomi Civi 3: OS3.0.1.0.VMICNXM
Xiaomi MIX Fold 2: OS3.0.1.0.VLRCNXM
The HyperOS 3 update is currently available as a Mi Plot release to these devices, which essentially means a beta release. To receive this update, you must sign up to become a beta tester (click here for all the steps). The update will soon roll out to non-beta users once Xiaomi ensures that the build has no critical bugs.
Xiaomi has not confirmed a global release for the Android 15-based HyperOS 3 upgrade. However, the presence of global models such as Xiaomi 12, Xiaomi 12 Pro, and Xiaomi Civi 3 on the above list gives a positive indication. The brand typically rolls out the update in China first, then expands it to the rest of the world within a few weeks.
We’ll keep posting the latest developments around HyperOS in our Xiaomi section. Remember to visit this section regularly for the latest updates. Alternatively, you can join our Telegram channel to get instant alerts for the newest software updates, product launches, and the biggest tech headlines.
Apple’s rumored smart ring remains one of the most speculated products in its wearables roadmap. While rivals like Samsung have already entered the segment with the Galaxy Ring, Apple’s direction is still unclear. Patents exist. Surveys have been sent. Code leaks have been analyzed.
But despite years of speculation, the Apple Ring remains a mystery. The question now is whether 2026 will finally be the year Apple jumps into the smart ring market.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported consistently that Apple has no active development plans for a smart ring. According to him, Apple executives are concerned that such a product could cannibalize Apple Watch sales by offering similar health-tracking features at a lower price point. He said the idea was explored internally but ultimately shelved.
On the other side, CCS Insight’s chief analyst Ben Wood believes Apple will launch a smart ring by 2026. He argues that the company’s increasing emphasis on health and sleep monitoring makes the ring a logical addition. Wood also claims the product would align with Tim Cook’s personal focus on health-tech innovation as part of his long-term legacy.
Another source, Korean leaker yeux1122, said in late 2025 that Apple’s smart ring project is in the research phase. However, no known production schedules or manufacturing details have emerged to back that claim.
2. Leaked iOS 26 code
When internal builds of iOS 26 surfaced in late 2025, speculation grew over new Apple hardware. Codenames like “V68” (believed to be the foldable iPhone) and “J490” (a smart home hub) were discovered. Early reports suspected “J229” might refer to the Apple Ring, but later analysis by Macworld and AppleInsider confirmed it as a smart camera accessory.
No mention of a smart ring appeared in these builds. However, Apple did conduct user surveys early last year targeting Apple Watch owners, asking if they had experience with other wearables, including smart rings. Such surveys often help Apple gauge product-market fit ahead of new launches.
3. Patents
There’s no shortage of Apple patents describing a ring-shaped wearable. Some patents date back to 2015, detailing a ring with sensors for heart rate, skin temperature, and gesture input.
Others are more recent, exploring rotating outer bands, haptics, and NFC support for Apple Pay. Apple also envisions the ring as a controller for Vision Pro, enabling precise hand gestures even when finger tracking fails.
These aren’t idle ideas. They’re part of a long trail of intellectual groundwork, and it’s clear Apple has invested heavily in exploring the form factor. But translating patents into products takes more than engineering, it requires market timing, manufacturing readiness, and strategic fit.
4. The bottom line
Apple is not expected to launch a smart ring in early 2026. The company is prioritizing other products, such as a foldable iPhone and a new smart home hub. The patents and internal discussions confirm Apple’s interest in the category, but there is no firm evidence of an upcoming release.
The Apple Ring remains a product in waiting. Apple could still make a late-year surprise or save it for a future cycle. Until then, the smart ring stands as another possibility on Apple’s long list of experimental ideas.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 was one of the most powerful flagship mobile chipsets when it debuted in late 2023, powering Android flagships like Galaxy S24 Ultra, OnePlus 12, ROG Phone 8 Pro, and many others. Fast-forward to 2026, and newer SoCs are available on the market, including the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. So, the question is: whether the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 still holds up as a compelling choice in 2026?
We’ll dive deep into performance, benchmark numbers, real-world usage, and value perspective to find out the answer.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3: Performance in 2026 — still fast enough?
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is Qualcomm’s last flagship chip from the Snapdragon 8-series to feature ARM cores. The chip maker then switched to in-house Oryon cores for the future flagship smartphone chips, such as the Snapdragon 8 Elite, 8 Elite Gen 5, and 8 Gen 5.
Oryon cores are generally faster than the ARM cores used inside the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. On top of that, the newer cores run at a higher CPU frequency, further enhancing performance. The difference is clearly visible on the benchmarks as well.
Geekbench (v6) score:
SD 8 Gen 3
SD 8 Gen 5
SD 8 Elite Gen 5
Single core
2,243
2,837
3,528
Multi core
6,591
9,352
10,521
AnTuTu (v11) score:
SD 8 Gen 3
SD 8 Gen 5
SD 8 Elite Gen 5
AnTuTu score
2,274,520
2,961,236
3,621,078
CPU
607,409
914,878
1,124,794
GPU
796,782
974,402
1,322,190
Memory
353,279
382,729
437,367
UX
517,050
689,228
736,727
Both the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and 8 Elite Gen 5 have significantly higher benchmark scores compared to the 8 Gen 3. But these are peak performance scores. In day-to-day usage like browsing the web, scrolling through social media apps, or streaming videos, you’d hardly notice any performance gap.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is also capable of high-end gaming, thanks to the Adreno 750 GPU with ray tracing support and a full suite of Snapdragon Elite Gaming features. However, the newer chips offer sustained performance in extended gaming sessions, better thermal efficiency, and improved battery efficiency.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3: AI and battery efficiency
The demand for on-device AI capabilities, including AI voice assistants and AI image/video editing tools, has grown rapidly in recent years. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 doesn’t compromise on this, as it features a Hexagon NPU that still offers competent AI processing. It supports generative AI models with up to 10 billion parameters.
That said, the newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and 8 Elite Gen 5 offer extended AI capabilities with improved power efficiency and support for Agentic AI.
The overall power efficiency still remains a significant strength of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in 2026, thanks to the chip’s architecture and mature 4nm process. The chip delivers respectable battery efficiency even under sustained workloads.
However, the newer chips, such as the 8 Gen 5 and 8 Elite Gen 5, are built using the more advanced 3nm process, delivering equal or slightly better performance at similar power usage.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3: Software support
You wouldn’t want to miss out on the latest security patches and new features. Hence, software support becomes a key factor to consider. Fortunately, that’s not a concern, as a couple of phones were released last year with a promise of up to four years of OS and security updates.
Many flagship phones from 2024, such as the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Xiaomi 14 Ultra, are still within their major Android update windows, with additional years of security patches.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3: Is it still a compelling choice in 2026?
The answer is Yes. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 still remains a solid choice in 2026. It still delivers robust performance, capable gaming performance, and a solid battery efficiency, all at a lower cost than current flagship chipsets.
That said, if you want the absolute peak performance, AI capabilities, and top-tier benchmarks, newer silicon like the Snapdragon 8 Elite, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 are better choices. But for most users, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 still remains a practical choice and delivers strong value for the money.
IDC’s smartphone shipment report for 2025 is out, and the overall takeaway is that the market remained mostly stable, both globally and in China. There wasn’t any major growth in shipments, but much of the momentum came from consumers shifting toward higher-end devices like foldables, which is a positive sign.
China’s smartphone shipments in 2025
China’s smartphone market remained largely flat toward the end of 2025. The market traded around 75.78 million units of smartphones, which is a 0.8% decline year-on-year.
For the full year, smartphone shipments in China totaled approximately 285 million units. But the shipments are still 0.6% less compared to 2024.
Q4 2025 China Smartphone Shipments
As for the brands, Huawei, Apple, and Vivo make up the top three of the leaderboard. The brands shipped a combined total of 139 million smartphone units.
However, Apple was the only one to record year-on-year growth at 4 percent by shipping 46.2 million units. Huawei and Vivo, meanwhile, posted declines of 1.9 percent and 6.6 percent, respectively.
Year 2025 China Smartphone Shipments
Xiaomi and Oppo round out the top five, with a year-on-year increase in market share by 4.3 percent and 2.1 percent, respectively.
Global smartphone shipments in 2025
The global market, on the other hand, saw a modest but consistent growth. In the fourth quarter, the shipment volume reached 336.3 million units, up 2.3% year-on-year. Meanwhile, in the whole of 2025, global shipments totaled 1.26 billion units, which is a 1.9% increase.
Q4 2025 Global Smartphone Shipments
Much of that growth came from the high end of the market. Apple and Samsung were the fastest-growing brands with growth rates of 6.3 percent and 7.9 percent, respectively.
Commendable for Apple is the fact that it’s the world’s top smartphone market for the third year in a row. Samsung also saw a record growth since 2013, largely thanks to foldables and the affordable Galaxy A lineup. Together, Apple and Samsung now make up for 39 percent global smartphone market share, up from 37 percent in 2024.
Year 2025 Global Smartphone Shipments
However, Chinese brands faced challenges in the global market. Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo largely held their positions but saw slight declines in market share. Xiaomi’s fourth-quarter shipments fell by double digits as it navigated a shift toward higher-end devices and tougher competition in China, though it still finished the year as the world’s third-largest vendor.
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Nubia has started revealing details about the upcoming Red Magic 11 Air and also offered us a proper look at this new gaming phone. Ahead of its official launch, the Red Magic 11 Air had its full design showcased in three color options along with some of its key features. So let’s check it out.
Red Magic 11 Air
Red Magic 11 Air launches in refreshing new colors
Looking at the official teasers, the new Red Magic 11 Air can be seen with a slightly curved glass back, which is also transparent. So users get a glimpse of the internals as well. The upcoming gaming phone will launch in three colorways, namely Stardust White, Quantum Black, and Aurora Silver. While this includes the classic black and white colors, the gray variant even has orange accents for added depth.
This orange hue is found on the power button, some design elements, and even in the camera rings. Furthermore, the Red Magic 11 Air can be seen with a triple camera setup on the rear along with the company’s brand logo, which houses RGB lighting that complements the gaming aesthetic. Pairing this with the transparent rear panel, you also get a futuristic look.
Based on what we know so far, the Red Magic 11 Air is set to debut in China on 20th January 2026. In the previous teasers, the brand has already revealed a bunch of features to improve the gaming experience, like a an ultra-thick 4D Ice-Step vapour chamber, Red Magic’s Cube gaming engine, a self-developed Red Core R4 esports chip, and a built-in PC emulator. To recall, this device is also relatively thin for its category, measuring just 7.85mm thick.
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Anker SOLIX has officially introduced the Anker SOLIX E10, a next-generation smart hybrid whole-home backup system designed to keep homes powered during outages, without compromise. The E10 is positioned as the world’s first smart hybrid whole-home backup solution, combining batteries, solar energy, and a smart generator into one unified system. The product is launching across the continental United States, with NFL Hall of Famer Troy Aikman serving as the brand ambassador.
What Makes the Anker SOLIX E10 Different?
Anker SOLIX E10 is built around three core ideas: infinite backup power, true whole-home coverage, and a simplified ownership experience. Unlike traditional backup systems that require users to manually select which circuits to power, the E10 can support every circuit in the home at once, delivering a seamless experience during power outages. The system is designed for both professional installation and DIY users, making advanced backup power more accessible than ever.
Smart Hybrid Energy System Explained
At its core, the E10 is a smart hybrid energy system that intelligently integrates battery storage, solar panels, and a smart fuel generator. The system supports both automatic and manual power switchover, ensuring flexibility based on the user’s setup and budget.
Homeowners can choose between two installation options. The Power Dock offers a fully automatic solution with near-instant switching, while the Smart Inlet Box provides a more affordable manual alternative. Both options are compatible with grid charging and existing solar systems, allowing the E10 to fit into a wide range of homes and energy setups.
Power Without Compromise: Output and Coverage
Anker SOLIX E10 is engineered for serious power demands. A single E10 unit can deliver up to 37.2 kW of surge power, while a dual-unit setup can reach an impressive 66 kW, enough to handle large appliances, HVAC systems, and heavy startup loads.
With 200A true whole-home backup, the E10 powers all household circuits simultaneously. The Power Dock enables an ultra-fast 20-millisecond automatic switchover, protecting sensitive electronics like computers and smart appliances. For users opting for the Smart Inlet Box, manual switching ensures reliable backup at a lower cost.
Turbo Mode for High-Demand Moments
The E10 also features a Turbo Mode, which boosts output to 10 kW per unit for up to 90 minutes. This is ideal for short periods of high energy demand, such as running multiple large appliances at once during an outage.
Massive Energy Through Modular Expansion
Scalability is one of the E10’s biggest strengths. Each battery module offers 6 kWh of capacity, and users can stack multiple modules with ease. Up to three E10 sets can be combined, delivering a massive 90 kWh total capacity.
Depending on household usage, the system can provide up to 15 days of backup power. Solar input further extends runtime, with 9 kW of solar support per unit, scaling up to 27 kW across three units. The E10 works with rigid solar panels, portable solar options, and even third-party AC solar systems.
Smarter Generator Integration
When paired with Anker’s smart generator, the E10 uses direct DC charging, which is far more efficient than traditional AC generator setups. This design can extend backup duration by up to five times, ensuring longer runtimes with less fuel consumption.
Built for Tough Conditions
Durability is a major focus of the Anker SOLIX E10. The system features an all-metal NEMA 4 enclosure with F1 UV protection, making it resistant to harsh weather conditions. It operates reliably in temperatures ranging from -4°F to 131°F, and supports both wall and floor mounting.
The design is also suitable for flood-prone areas, adding peace of mind for homeowners in challenging environments.
Easy Installation
Anker SOLIX offers nationwide professional installation, providing a true one-stop solution for homeowners who want a hands-off experience. For DIY users, the E10 features a stackable, plug-and-play design, allowing batteries to be expanded without complex wiring.
Anker also provides detailed technical documentation and a dedicated customer support hotline, ensuring long-term reliability and support.
Pricing, Pre-Orders, and Availability
Pre-orders for the Anker SOLIX E10 opened on January 12, 2026, through the official website, with a $10 refundable deposit. Early buyers receive a $500 discount coupon and a gift pack worth over $1,500, which includes a 400W solar panel.
Official sales begin on February 4, 2026, with pricing starting at $4,299 for the base system. Bundles with the Smart Inlet Box, Power Dock, and smart generator are available, with the fully loaded package priced at $7,399.
• E10 Base System (1 inverter + 1 battery) priced from $4,299. • E10 + Smart Inlet Box priced from $4,599. • E10 + Power Dock priced from $5,799. • E10, Smart Generator, and Power Dock priced from $7,399.
Warranty and Long-Term Value
Anker SOLIX E10 comes with a 5-year standard warranty, and pre-order customers receive an additional 3-year extended warranty, offering up to 8 years of coverage.
With the SOLIX E10, Anker is redefining what whole-home backup power can be. By combining high output, modular scalability, solar integration, and simplified installation, the E10 is designed for homeowners who want reliable, long-lasting power without complexity. For anyone looking to future-proof their home against outages, the Anker SOLIX E10 stands out as a powerful and flexible solution.
Apple is reportedly moving closer to its long-rumoured foldable iPhone, with fresh information suggesting that internal testing has already begun. While Apple has not confirmed anything officially, recent leaks indicate that the company is planning to unveil it alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. Here is some new information shared about the iPhone Fold (tentative name) by reliable tipster Digital Chat Station.
Apple foldable iPhone enters early testing
iPhone Fold leak by DCS
According to DCS, Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to arrive as a major industry-level product rather than an experimental first attempt. The device is said to feature a new-generation foldable display design that differs from current foldables on the market. It is expected to break cover in September this year along with the iPhone 18 Pro series.
The inner screen is tipped to measure around 7.58 inches, while the outer display is expected to be approximately 5.25 inches. Interestingly, the engineering prototype is said to be slightly smaller than earlier rumors suggested, which could help improve ergonomics and daily usability.
The tipster also notes that Apple is working on a new in-house application processor specifically designed for this foldable form factor. This aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of tighter hardware and software integration, allowing it to fine-tune performance, efficiency, and thermal control for unconventional designs. Alongside the new chip, the foldable iPhone is said to debut with a new foldable-focused operating system that adapts the interface for multi-screen usage and seamless app transitions.
iPhone Fold design by DCS
Unlike many early foldables that focused heavily on specifications, Apple appears to be prioritizing design maturity, display quality, and in-hand comfort. DCS adds that the grip and overall feel of the device should be notably refined, suggesting that Apple is taking a cautious but deliberate approach.
If these details hold true, Apple’s foldable iPhone could mark a significant turning point for other manufacturers, as rival brands are also said to be working on wider foldable phones. Samsung is rumoured to debut the Galaxy Fold Wide in July this year, whereas Oppo is said to be working on the Oppo Find N7 with a similar design, with a launch expected in September this year.
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Realme is all set to announce the Realme Neo 8 on Jan. 22 in China. So far, the company has confirmed some of its specs and showcased its purple edition. Today, the brand released the following images to showcase all its colour options.
The above images show the Realme Neo 8 in Origin White, Mecha Grey, and Cyber Purple editions. The device is said to have a glass back and a metal middle frame. A closer look at the phone’s back panel reveals RGB lighting similar to what was seen on the older Realme GT Neo 5.
Realme Neo 8 specifications
Realme Neo 8 – Cyber Purple
According to reports, the Realme Neo 8 will arrive with a 6.78-inch Samsung AMOLED screen offering a 1.5K resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate. For security, it will feature an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor. It will come preloaded with Realme UI 7-based Android 16.
Under the hood, the Realme Neo 8 will have the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset. It will be paired with up to 24GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.1 storage. It is expected to pack an 8,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging support.
The Neo 8 will have a 16-megapixel camera on the front for selfies and video calls. Its back panel will feature an OIS-assisted 50-megapixel main camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide snapper, and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera.
The Neo 8 will also come with other features such as dual speakers, an IR blaster, and NFC. It will have an IP68/69-rated dustproof and water-resistant chassis, measuring 8.3mm in thickness and weighing around 215 grams.
In China, the Realme Neo 8 will compete with the likes of the iQOO Z11 Turbo and the OnePlus Ace 6T. Rumours are rife that the Neo 8 may get rebranded as the GT 8 in the global market.
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