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Alcatel is Strategically Re-entering Indian smartphone market – Here’s what to expect?

Alcatel, once a household name in the telecom sector, is poised for a comeback in the bustling Indian market. Known for its innovative devices and rich legacy, Alcatel is ready to re-enter the spotlight under the leadership of NxtCell India. The first phones are slated to launch on May 27 in India, marking an ambitious step for the brand as it aims to carve a niche in a market already crowded with many active players, where standing out requires more than just nostalgia—it requires a real commitment to offering something unique.

In a recent interaction via call, I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Atul Vivek, Chief Business Officer, and Mr. Ansh Rathi, Chief Operating Officer of NxtCell India, the company re-launching the Alcatel brand in India. The discussion delved into the strategic vision behind bringing Alcatel back, their target audience, product philosophy focusing on innovation like the stylus and AI, their ‘Make in India’ approach, market strategy, and ambitious future goals. Here are the key insights from our conversation with Mr. Vivek and Mr. Rathi, structured thematically:

Alcatel

1. Re-establishing the Alcatel Brand and Legacy

NxtCell India sees significant potential in leveraging Alcatel’s historical standing and technical prowess. For years, Alcatel has been at the forefront of the telecom sector, known for innovative designs that seamlessly blend style with functionality. This enduring legacy has been built on a commitment to user-focused experiences and an unwavering dedication to technological advancement.

Mr. Atul Vivek highlighted how this pioneering approach and strong emphasis on innovation have been central to Alcatel’s success over the years. “Alcatel was the pioneer in the telecom sector once upon a time… Alcatel’s legacy has been to provide innovation and reliability in their devices to the consumers… since the brand is from France… it comes with a different DNA altogether. A DNA with the player towards innovative designs, a DNA which is built on innovation and absolutely consumer centric DNA.” He affirmed this legacy as a primary reason for choosing Alcatel for the re-launch.

2. Targeting the Indian Market: Gen Z & Productivity

While the Indian smartphone market is crowded with brands offering incremental updates, NxtCell India aims to break the monotony by introducing meaningful innovations. The company believes that there is a growing demand for devices that offer more than just superficial upgrades, especially among younger consumers and professionals who prioritize productivity and seamless user experiences.

Mr. Ansh Rathi elaborated on this focus, identifying the key target segment that seeks these advanced features and a fresh approach to smartphone usage. “Our primary target segments are agencies who are into high-end technology… We have to give our users who would be primarily Gen Z and of course the millennials who are looking for productivity features… to give them a reason to upgrade to break the clutter… We are going to be like a breath of fresh air.”

3. Innovative Products: the Stylus & AI Focus

Alcatel V3 Ultra
Alcatel V3 Ultra

NxtCell India is positioning stylus support as a standout feature in their upcoming devices, aiming to make it a mainstream tool that goes beyond mere aesthetics. The company plans to integrate the stylus with cutting-edge display technology and AI to boost both creativity and productivity. This approach highlights their intention to deliver practical, versatile features that users can genuinely benefit from.

Mr. Atul Vivek elaborated on this strategy, explaining how their stylus offering is coupled with patented display technology designed to serve multiple purposes. “Now we are making stylus go mainstream with our offering. Our offering will come with stylus… ours will be coupled with an innovative and patented display which will… uses both productivity and creativity features… The stylus will not be only a showpiece… you can actually create a lot of things. You can use the stylus to enhance your productivity.”

He also emphasized the role of AI integration, indicating that it will be more than a gimmick, instead focusing on enhancing real-world usage. “Yes, our devices will come with the full suit of AI and our style should also be integrated with the AI features… wherein we can actually enhance productivity by using our device coupled with AI.”

4. ‘Make in India’ Manufacturing and After-Sales Service

NxtCell India manufacturing centre

Local manufacturing and reliable after-sales service form the backbone of NxtCell India’s strategy to build consumer trust and ensure product quality. By manufacturing devices domestically from day one, they aim to support India’s economy and deliver devices suited for the local market. Alongside production, a widespread service network is planned to provide comprehensive customer care.

Confirming these plans, Mr. Ansh Rathi stated, “We have partnered with one of India’s leading EMS providers. And our devices will be manufactured and made in India from day one.” He added that the manufacturing infrastructure is already in place.

Regarding after-sales support, he highlighted their pan-India network, featuring over 1,000 trained technicians and integration with custom CRM software to maintain a consistent customer experience. “We have partnered with F1 Chiefs and they have a service partner network on a pan-India level… We have 1,000-plus technicians available… integrating our own CRM software as well so that our customer endpoint and user experience is always with us.”

5. Sustainability and Responsible Practices

Environmental responsibility is embedded in their manufacturing and operational philosophy, with a clear focus on reducing e-waste and following government-mandated waste management standards. This proactive stance aligns with rising consumer awareness and regulatory expectations.

Mr. Rathi outlined their sustainable approach, describing how modular and component-level manufacturing helps minimise waste and facilitates repairs. “We are fully compliant with all waste management and other standards that the government has already prescribed… we have already adopted very modular and component-level manufacturing system to reduce the e-waste in future.” He also emphasised adherence to international manufacturing standards to lessen environmental impact and ensure spare parts availability for easier device upkeep.

6. Building Consumer Trust and Engagement

Re-entering the market with a trusted brand requires more than just products—it demands continuous engagement and transparent communication with customers. NxtCell India aims to leverage Alcatel’s legacy while highlighting their patented technologies and premium components to establish credibility.

Mr. Ansh Rathi described their comprehensive trust-building measures, including digital reputation management tools and a dedicated toll-free helpline to cover all customer touchpoints. “First of all, Alcatel has a name for itself. There is a legacy that Alcatel already has… we’re coming with the technologies which are patented to us that will establish our strength… superior components that we are using… long term user experience…”

On consumer feedback, he added, “We have a dedicated ORM system, a listening tool for digital feedback and a dedicated toll-free call center for traditional inquiries, ensuring a 360-degree UX coverage.” Community-building initiatives will follow in later stages, inviting users to participate in beta testing and product development.

7. Market strategy: competition, distribution & future goals

Mr. Ansh Rathi, Chief Operating Officer of NxtCell India (right) | Mr. Atul Vivek, Chief Business Officer (left)

Despite intense competition in India’s smartphone market, NxtCell India views this as an opportunity rather than a barrier. With growing smartphone penetration and an educated user base, the brand plans to offer accessible premium experiences tailored to Indian consumers.

Mr. Atul Vivek expressed optimism about the market potential and the advantages of an informed customer base. “We believe competition is good… India is the largest smartphone market… it offers infinite possibilities… it’s not a challenge for us. We… consider this an opportunity because now we do not have to educate people about the smartphone and technology, right? So it is actually a job made easier for us.”

He underscored the brand’s key differentiators: “Premium user experience at an accessible price. Devices which are made in India and reliable.”

On distribution, the company will maintain an omni-channel presence but emphasises its identity as a digital-first brand, leveraging a strategic partnership with Flipkart for broad reach and presence on Flipkart Minutes. Offline availability will be selectively curated through key retailers.

Setting ambitious targets, Mr. Vivek concluded, “Next two to three years our goal is to grab a position in top three players, top three smartphone players in India.”

8. India’s Role and the Ecosystem

India is not just a launchpad but a strategic hub for Alcatel’s global aspirations. NxtCell India envisions manufacturing locally while expanding their product portfolio to create a cohesive ecosystem.

Mr. Ansh Rathi shared their long-term vision, focusing first on India before branching into selected international markets. “Our ideology since we started… was to become a brand that manufactures in India and goes global… we will first cater to the Indian market and then we will select go to select international markets as well.”

Mr. Atul Vivek reinforced this by confirming plans for an expanded product ecosystem beyond smartphones. “To have a complete ecosystem of products in India. We’re just starting with smartphones. Going forward you will see a range of products… We will have the ecosystem.”

9. Commitment to Reliability Over Spec Sheets

In an industry often driven by spec wars, NxtCell India is focusing on delivering true value through usability and reliability. Their philosophy prioritises meaningful innovation over simply chasing the highest numbers on paper, aiming for sustainable differentiation.

Mr. Atul Vivek reflected on the challenges of competing on specs alone and explained their measured approach. “India’s market is highly competitive, and it’s easy to get drawn into a never-ending price and spec race. As a new brand, Alcatel must focus on innovation and offering real value, not just chasing specs or prices. This approach is more sustainable.”

He highlighted their commitment to local manufacturing and vertical integration to ensure quality and timely supply for both domestic and international markets.

Using battery capacity as an example, Mr. Vivek questioned the race for ever-larger batteries, arguing that longevity and safety are more important than raw size. He said the goal is a battery that lasts multiple days, supported by hardware and software optimisation. “Our focus is a battery that lasts several days, even without charging, thanks to hardware and software optimizations. That’s the difference we bring.”

10. Upcoming Alcatel phones’ details confirmed

Alcatel V3 series launching on May 27 in India

The brand will officially unveil the Alcatel V3 Ultra, V3 Pro, and V3 Classic on May 27 in India. A major highlight across these new models is the company’s proprietary NXTPAPER display technology, which offers four distinct modes: Regular Mode for everyday use, Max Ink Mode that can extend display time up to 168 hours, Ink Paper Mode specially designed for e-reading, and a standard viewing mode. Users can easily switch between these modes using a dedicated NXTPAPER Key, enhancing versatility and user experience. Readers can explore the key features of the upcoming Alcatel V3 series phones here. As mentioned above, these phones will be sold via Flipkart in India.

Huawei, Honor, OPPO, and Vivo collaborate for UFCS 2.0 charging standard

Huawei, Honor, Oppo, and Vivo have collaborated to standardize a unified charging protocol in China. The four Chinse smartphone makers came together in an event at the UFCS Industry Development Conference held in Shenzhen on May 22 to sign a new agreement around the Universal Fast Charging Standard (UFCS) 2.0 protocol.

For those unaware, the UFCS charging was first introduced by Huawei, Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi in 2021. It served as a base for framing the centralized mobile fast charging standards for these brands. 

UFCS Version 2.0 Upgrades

Version 2.0 of UFCS introduces some notable technical updates over the first generation. Chief among them is support for 40W unauthenticated power delivery. This means devices can charge at higher speeds without needing proprietary handshakes between brand-specific adapters and cables. 

The protocol also introduces a reverse charging feature, allowing supported devices to charge others, regardless of brand.

According to the companies, UFCS 2.0 also makes PowerChange—active adapter power adjustment—a required feature. In practice, this means chargers will automatically detect and adjust output based on the connected device, regardless of its brand. It’s a feature meant to improve safety and efficiency, while reducing the friction that often comes with third-party charging accessories.

The four brands coming together for a unified charging standard is a win for users. Fast charging has become an expected feature on modern smartphones, but it remains fragmented. 

Each brand historically pushed its own proprietary solutions, leading to a mess of incompatible standards and excess chargers for consumers. UFCS, in theory, reduces that fragmentation, at least within this alliance.

Whether this protocol will see adoption beyond China or by global competitors like Samsung or Apple remains unclear. But as long as companies keep agreeing to siloed standards, users will remain dependent on which ecosystem they buy into.

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Check out OnePlus 13s’ 32MP autofocus front camera samples

OnePlus is all set to announce the OnePlus 13s on June 5 in India. Reports suggest that it may remain exclusive to the Chinese market. Ahead of the launch, the brand has been gradually revealing key features of the smartphone. Like the OnePlus 13, the 13s will also feature a 32-megapixel front camera. However, it is confirmed to include something that’s not available on the OnePlus 13.

OnePlus 13s camera samples

OnePlus has confirmed that the OnePlus 13s is equipped with an autofocus-assisted 32-megapixel front camera. While the OnePlus 13 has the same megapixel count front camera, it lacks support for autofocus. Here are a few camera samples of the OnePlus 13s’ front camera.

With autofocus support, the OnePlus 13s’ 32-megapixel front camera captures subjects in various indoor settings with impressive results. The images showcase consistent sharpness and detail across both color and monochrome shots, complemented by a natural background blur that highlights the subjects.

The selfie camera samples reflect the camera’s ability to adapt to different lighting conditions effectively, producing well-exposed images with a professional, polished finish. Overall, the camera demonstrates the device’s capability to deliver high-quality selfies with improved focus and clarity.

Shown above are some images that showcase the photography prowess of the OnePlus 13s. While the details of the 13s’ rear cameras have not been confirmed yet, it can capture shots in zoom options, such as 1x, 2x, 4x, 10x, and 20x.

The OnePlus 13s also offers an impressive shutter speed, with the fastest at 1/370s, as seen in the last image, capturing sharp details even from a moving rickshaw. This makes it ideal for capturing dynamic scenes with precision and clarity.

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Tecno Pova Curve 5G’s design, 64MP main camera confirmed before May 29 launch

Tecno is gearing up to introduce its new Pova Curve 5G smartphone in India, with the launch confirmed for May 29 at noon local time. Teasers shared by Tecno India and Flipkart have revealed design elements and some feature highlights ahead of the official debut.

Tecno Pova Curve 5G design revealed

The Tecno Pova Curve 5G is set to arrive with a futuristic design inspired by starship aerodynamics. It will feature a curved AMOLED display and will be available in black, silver, and teal colorways.

The Pova Curve 5G’s rear panel has a unique triangular camera module that houses dual camera sensors and an LED flash, arranged vertically. The text imprinted alongside the camera module confirms that it features a 64-megapixel primary camera. The device seems to be equipped with an in-screen fingerprint sensor for security.

The Pova Curve 5G is designed to deliver reliable 5G connectivity and comes with Tecno’s Intelligent Signal Hub System for enhanced network coverage. It will come equipped with Tecno’s ELLA voice assistant. ELLA brings a suite of AI-driven features like AI Privacy Blurring and Circle to Search, designed to provide a smarter and safer user experience

Tecno Pova Curve 5G specifications (rumored)

According to reports, the Tecno Pova Curve 5G will feature an FHD+ AMOLED screen and the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset. It will be offered in configurations of 6GB RAM + 128GB storage and 8GB RAM + 128GB storage. Reports suggest that the device could feature a 5,500mAh battery and may support 45W charging.

Flipkart will be the exclusive online retailer for the Pova Curve 5G, while offline availability will be through various retail outlets across India.

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Honor Watch 5 Ultra Launched in Malaysia with 40M Diving Mode and Titanium Body

Honor has officially launched the Watch 5 Ultra smartwatch in Malaysia. The watch was initially unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2025, back in March.

Honor Watch 5 Ultra

Honor Watch 5 Ultra features

The Honor Watch 5 Ultra comes with a titanium alloy case made from aerospace-grade material and is SGS-certified for durability. The design uses a scratch-resistant sapphire glass and an octagonal bezel inspired by a spaceship viewport.

The watch includes a 40-meter Free Diving Mode that tracks depth, speed, water temperature, max depth, time underwater, and direction. It also supports two apnea training modes and a test mode. It is rated 5ATM and IP68 for water and dust resistance.

The Watch 5 Ultra has a 1.5-inch screen with a 466×466 resolution and 310 PPI. It runs for up to 15 days on a single charge. It comes with a wireless fast charger that gives one full day of power in 10 minutes. The watch measures 46.3 x 46.3 x 11.4 mm and weighs 51.8 grams without the strap.

Honor Watch 5 Ultra features

Health features include a one-minute Honor Health Scan. For sleep, it offers calming music and sleep-optimized watch faces. Users can also record audio on the watch and sync it with the Honor Notes app. A two-way search feature helps find the watch or the connected phone. It works with Android 9.0 and above and iOS 13.0 and above.

Pricing & availability

The Watch 5 Ultra is now available for pre-order in Malaysia, offered with two strap options: Black fluoroelastomer and Brown leather. However, only the Brown leather version is currently in stock. Priced at RM1,099 ($260), customers who place their pre-orders by May 29 can enjoy a promotional price of RM999 ($236). Official sales begin on May 30.

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Redmi K80 Ultra 3C certified, June launch expected

Recently, the upcoming Redmi K80 Ultra, which bears the model number 25060RK16C, was approved by the MIIT platform in China. The certification revealed that the device will pack a huge battery of around 7,500mAh capacity. Now, the same device has bagged approval from the 3C certification platform in China. As usual, the listing gives an idea about the fast charging capabilities of the device.

Redmi K80 Ultra 3C certified

Redmi K80 Ultra 3C certified

The above image reveals that the Redmi K80 Ultra (25060RK16C) has received approval from China’s 3C authority. The listing reveals that it may ship with a 120W fast charger. This Ultra-branded device is expected to rival the likes of the iQOO Neo 10 Pro+ and OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra, which are equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite and Dimensity 9400 Plus chipsets, respectively.

Redmi K80 Ultra specifications (rumored)

Redmi K70 Ultra

As per reports, the Redmi K80 Ultra is expected to feature a 6.83-inch flat OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution. Under the hood, the device is expected to feature the Dimensity 9400 Plus chipset.

The K80 Ultra’s back panel is likely to feature a 50-megapixel triple camera unit housed inside a round camera module. While its retail package may ship with a 120W charger, the K80 Ultra may support only 100W charging. For durability, it may feature an IP68/69-rated chassis equipped with a metal middle frame.

The Redmi K80 Ultra may launch as early as next month (June) in China. The brand is also expected to unveil a gaming-focused tablet alongside the K80 Ultra.

The K80 Ultra may remain exclusive to the Chinese market. The global market may likely receive the Xiaomi 15T Pro as a slightly modified version of the K80 Ultra in Q3 2025.

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Oppo Find N6 tipped to launch in Q1 2026 with Snapdragon 8 Elite 2

Oppo launched the Find N5 in the first quarter of this year as the world’s first Snapdragon 8 Elite-powered foldable phone. While it is too early to talk about its successor, reliable tipster Digital Chat Station has leaked the first details about the Find N6. In a recent Weibo post, he seemingly mentioned the chipset and launch timeframe of the N6.

Oppo Find N6 launch timeframe (rumored)

Oppo Find N6 launch timeframe by DCS

According to the tipster, Oppo’s next foldable phone equipped with the SM8850 chipset is scheduled to launch in the first quarter of 2026. The SM8850 model number reportedly belongs to the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip, which is expected to debut in September of this year.

While the tipster has not specified the name of the device, it is evident that he could be talking about the Oppo Find N6. Oppo is said to be striving for an even thinner foldable profile with the Find N6. The previous generation, Find N5, had already achieved an industry-leading 8.93mm thickness, beating many bar-style flagship devices.

Now that the Find N5 is tipped to launch in Q1 2026, it is likely that it may debut as the world’s first foldable equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset. At present, there is no information about the other specs of the device.

Oppo Find N5
Oppo Find N5

As far as this year is concerned, Oppo is reportedly working on the Find X9 series of smartphones for the Chinese market. Expected to launch this year, the Find X9, X9+, and Find X9 Pro are said to be equipped with the Dimensity 9500c chipset. Unlike the Find X8 Pro, the X9 Pro is expected to feature a single 200-megapixel periscope telephoto camera.

The Find X9 Ultra, expected to launch in Q1 2026, may continue to feature dual periscope cameras like its predecessor. Instead of a Dimensity chip, the device may feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset.

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Honor Pad 10 Launched with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and 12.1-Inch 2.5K Display

Honor has officially launched the Honor Pad 10 tablet in Malaysia and across European markets, including France, Germany, and Italy.

Honor Pad 10

Honor Pad 10 features

The tablet is equipped with a 12.1-inch TFT LCD display featuring a 2.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 249 PPI, 500 nits peak brightness, and support for 1.07 billion colors. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor and runs MagicOS 9.0, which is based on Android 15.

Honor Pad 10 features

Camera hardware includes an 8MP sensor on both the front and rear. The Pad 10 is backed by a 10,100mAh battery with 35W SuperCharge support. Connectivity options include WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3. Additional hardware and software features include wet hand touch support, Honor Eye Comfort Display, and a six-speaker setup with Honor Spatial Audio.

AI-based productivity features are central to the Pad 10’s experience, with tools such as AI Honor Notes, AI Voice-note Sync, AI Notes Assistant, and AI Writing tools. Other utilities include Magic Portal and Honor Connect. The tablet also includes 8GB Turbo RAM and measures 277.07 x 179.28 x 6.29mm, weighing 525g.

Pricing & availability

In terms of availability, the Honor Pad 10 comes in Cyan (exclusive to Malaysia) and Gray. Pricing for the 8GB RAM and 256GB storage variant is as follows: RM1,499 in Malaysia, €399.90 in France, €329.90 in Germany, and €349.90 in Italy.

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Baseus launches MC1 Pro AI clip-on earbuds with LDAC, AI assistant, 40h battery life & IP67 rating

Baseus has officially launched the MC1 Pro AI clip-on earphones in China. The new model succeeds last year’s MC1 (full review) and is now available on JD.com starting at 429 yuan ($60). It comes in three color options: Star Titanium, Pearl White, and Star Black.

Baseus MC1 Pro AI

Baseus MC1 Pro AI Specifications

The MC1 Pro is designed with a patented “Cloud Airbag Pro” structure that aims to improve comfort during extended use. Each earbud uses 0.5mm ultra-thin, skin-friendly silicone with a breathable design that cushions the ear from all sides. Baseus says this improves comfort by up to 120%. The earbuds weigh just 5 grams each.

The design includes an anti-drop suspension system built using data from over 10,000 ear shapes. The C-shaped arc and titanium alloy frame ensure a secure fit and high durability. The frame structure is rated to withstand over 8000 bends without deformation.

In terms of sound quality, the MC1 Pro supports LDAC for high-resolution wireless audio streaming at up to 990kbps. The earphones deliver CD-level lossless audio with a wide frequency range of 20Hz to 40kHz. Baseus has used a triple-magnetic circuit driver with a three-layer polymer diaphragm. The driver supports a 0.8mm amplitude to improve bass performance and soundstage clarity.

Baseus MC1 Pro AI

The MC1 Pro features HiFi 4 audio architecture and includes quadruple DSP enhancements that enable dynamic low-frequency tuning. The earphones support AI spatial audio using Baseus’ own BISA (Baseus Immersive Spatial Algorithm), which creates a 360-degree sound field for a more immersive experience.

Baseus has also integrated AI voice assistance based on large language models such as Doubao and DeepSeek. Users can ask questions, request translation help, practice English, or even receive emotional support. These smart features are accessible through touch controls on the earbuds.

The MC1 Pro uses four microphones with deep neural network-based noise reduction. Baseus claims the system can handle wind speeds up to 5m/s while maintaining clear voice calls. Directional sound reduces audio leakage to below 45.9dBA, improving privacy during use.

The earbuds support Bluetooth 6.0 and offer up to 10 meters of wireless range. Battery life reaches up to 40 hours with the included charging case. The MC1 Pro uses a USB Type-C interface and supports app-level customization for button mapping, EQ tuning, and location tracking. The earphones are IP67-rated for dust and water resistance.

There’s no word yet on global availability, but the earphones are expected to launch later this year under the Bowie series branding.

In related news, Anker recently introduced the Soundcore Liberty 5 earbuds with ANC 3.0, LDAC support, and up to 12 hours of battery life. Realme has also launched the Buds Air 7 Pro, featuring 53dB active noise cancellation, real-time AI translation, and a 48-hour battery life.

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Realme GT 7 Sets Guinness World Record for 24-Hour Movie Playback

The upcoming Realme GT 7 has officially broken a Guinness World Record for the “Longest Marathon Watching Films/Movies on a Mobile Phone.” The record was set during a 24-hour movie playback session certified by a Guinness representative on May 23, 2025. The event was part of Realme’s “Endless Power Journey,” a European cruise-based promotional tour that started in Rome and was livestreamed from Shenzhen, China, beginning at 9:30 PM IST on May 22. The record was validated exactly 24 hours later.

Realme GT 7 achieves Guinness World Record

Realme attributes this feat to the GT 7’s 7000mAh battery paired with 120W wired fast charging. The battery has received a 5-Star Battery Certification from TÜV Rheinland. The GT 7 series is set to launch globally and in India on May 27, 2025, with a Paris-based unveiling. Availability will follow via Realme.com, Amazon India, and select retail outlets.

In earlier coverage, it was confirmed that the global GT 7 lineup includes the GT 7, GT 7T, and Buds Air 7 Pro. The Indian market will also receive a GT 7 Dream Edition, a limited-release version in collaboration with Aston Martin’s Formula One team. The special edition features Aston Martin green packaging, silver branding, and F1 logos, alongside a custom UI and accessories.

The global GT 7 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400e, distinguishing it from the Chinese version, which uses the Dimensity 9400+. The global model also differs with a 7000mAh battery (versus 7200mAh in China) and supports 7.5W reverse wired charging. Camera specs include a Sony IMX906 main sensor, 112° ultra-wide lens, and a 32MP front camera capable of 4K video at 120fps.

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Breakthrough polymer slashes Organic Solar Cell cost to one-fifth

Zhengzhou University researchers have developed a game-changing polymer that achieves nearly 20% efficiency in organic solar cells (OSCs) at a fraction of the cost of existing materials. This leap could make lightweight, flexible solar power commercially viable, rivaling silicon panels.

It could transform lab experiments to mainstream energy solutions

Organic solar cells (OSCs) have long promised affordable, flexible energy solutions but struggled with efficiency and cost. Zhengzhou University’s new polymer, PTQ15, changes the game, achieving a certified 19.96% power-conversion efficiency, the highest for low-cost organic materials.

Costing $35,528 per kilogram—about one-fifth of premium polymers like PM6 and D18, which exceed $200,000/kg—PTQ15 is synthesized in a streamlined three to four-step process with over 80% yield, slashing production expenses.

Paired with acceptors K1/K6, PTQ15 enables OSCs with ultrafast 1.40-picosecond charge transfer and a mere 0.190 eV non-radiative energy loss, ensuring efficient energy conversion with minimal heat waste. Remarkably, devices processed in open-air conditions at 25% humidity retained 19.37% efficiency, proving robustness for real-world manufacturing. At an estimated $0.36 per watt, PTQ15-based OSCs are nearing the cost-effectiveness of silicon photovoltaics.

The lightweight, flexible nature of OSCs makes them ideal for applications like portable chargers and building-integrated photovoltaics. Researchers aim to cross the 20% efficiency threshold by optimizing donor-acceptor pairings and film morphology, potentially unlocking mass-market adoption.

If successful, PTQ15 could transform OSCs from lab experiments to mainstream energy solutions, offering a cheaper, greener alternative to traditional solar panels. Will this polymer spark a solar revolution? Ongoing refinements will tell.

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vivo T4 Ultra to feature periscope camera — a big leap over T3 Ultra’s no-telephoto setup

Vivo is stirring excitement with the upcoming T4 Ultra, a souped-up version of its April-released vivo T4. Leaked specs suggest a powerhouse device blending high-end performance, a stunning display, and advanced cameras, all at a mid-range price, with a launch expected in early June 2025.

After launching the Vivo T4 with a Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 in April 2025, Vivo is set to unveil the T4 Ultra, a premium mid-ranger powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 9300 series chipset, per X tipster Yogesh Brar. The Dimensity 9300+, previously rumored to be a part of the T4 Ultra, outperforms the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in renowned benchmarks like Geekbench and AnTuTu — and even in gaming performance, according to NanoReview.

Vivo T3 Ultra
vivo T3 Ultra

The vivo T3 Ultra packs the Dimensity 9200+, which also supports the speculation above. Running Funtouch OS 15 on Android 15, the T4 Ultra also promises a slick, up-to-date software experience.

As per the latest leak, the device sports a 6.67-inch quad-curved pOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It’s also speculated to boast 5,000 nits peak brightness and is certified for eye comfort, which, if true, would position it as one of the best mid-range screens. But it’s camera system steals the show, featuring a 50MP Sony IMX921 main sensor for crisp, detailed shots, and a 50MP periscope telephoto. It will likely be paired with an 8MP ultra-wide.

Charging is another highlight, with 90W FlashCharge and a rumored 6,000mAh battery, hitting 50% in under 30 minutes. Set for an early June 2025 debut, possibly alongside a T4 Lite, it could compete with the Realme GT Neo 7. With “flagship-grade” specs at a fraction of the cost, will the T4 Ultra redefine the mid-range segment? More details should emerge soon.

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TCL Launches Flip 4 Feature Phone with 5G and Classic Clamshell Design

TCL has launched the Flip 4 5G, a new feature phone that combines a classic clamshell design with modern connectivity. The phone is now available through T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile in the United States at a retail price of $79.99.

TCL Flip 4 5G

TCL Flip 4 5G Specifications

The Flip 4 5G features a 1.77-inch external display for quick notifications and a 3.2-inch internal LCD screen. The large physical keypad is designed for ease of use, featuring shortcut keys and tactile feedback to improve accessibility for all users. TCL has included dual microphones with noise cancellation and HD Voice support to enhance call clarity.

The phone runs on KaiOS 4.0 and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 processor. It comes with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, of which 23.9GB is usable. The storage can be expanded via microSD. It supports access to essential apps such as Google Maps, YouTube, email, and a web browser.

TCL has equipped the Flip 4 5G with a 5MP rear camera capable of recording video. The device includes a music player that supports a range of audio formats, including MP3 and FLAC. It also has an FM radio, a calendar, a calculator, and basic note-taking functionality.

TCL Flip 4 5G

Connectivity options include 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and hotspot capability. The phone supports a wide range of network bands, including GSM, LTE, and 5G NR, ensuring strong coverage across regions. It also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and USB Type-C charging.

The phone packs a 3000mAh battery that offers up to 40 hours of talk time and lasts more than two days on a full charge. TCL says it can be recharged in under two hours.

Despite the rise of smartphones, the Flip 4 5G targets users looking for a distraction-free device. TCL is positioning it for seniors, teenagers, and users seeking a reliable backup phone. The company believes the Flip 4 5G offers essential features without unnecessary complexity, backed by modern network support and dependable battery life.

In related news, TCL has launched the C6K, C6KS, and P Series TVs in India featuring QD Mini-LED panels and 144Hz displays. The company has also introduced the 85-inch Q5K Google TV in the US, priced at $749, offering 4K QLED visuals with Dolby Vision support.

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(Via 1,2)

Fairphone 4 Won’t Get Android 14, Will Jump to Android 15 Instead

Fairphone has confirmed that it will not upgrade the Fairphone 4 to Android 14, as was previously announced. Instead, the company is now set to skip one full major OS version and directly upgrade to Android 15 on some later date. 

The company announced the changes in the plan via a community forum post. Apparently, resource limitations and internal capacity are the main reasons behind the decision. 

Fairphone says it had assessed the development workload required for Android 14 and decided that it would make the most effective use of its time and staff resources by focusing efforts on Android 15 instead.

The previous OS upgrade that the Fairphone 4 has is on Android 13 back in 2023. While Android 14 was initially bound to release in the first half of 2025, there is no chance now. 

We have no confirmed date

That change means that the users waiting for more incremental Android update versions will have to get along with Android 13 until the company completes the development and testing process for Android 15.

Fairphone hasn’t committed to stepping out with Android 15 on a firm date.

The most recent Fairphone 5 which is still available on sale in a few markets for €499, also has not received Android 15 update as of yet. And the company hasn’t clarified whether both devices will get it at the same time. 

Despite those major update delays, the Fairphone 4 still pumps out bi-monthly security updates. The official support for the device will run out in 2026; the company is considering extending it for another two years. That would still keep the brand’s wider brand goal of promoting longevity and reducing electronic waste on some kind of track, even if the brand is hitting some practical limitations with their relatively small software development scale. 

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Trump’s smartphone tariff won’t just hit Apple — Samsung and everyone else affected

President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on iPhones sold in the US unless manufactured domestically, erasing $70 billion from Apple’s market value. Now, the policy is also targeting Samsung and every other smartphone brand that sells their products in the US. While it aims to boost the US economy, it could spike prices. Wedbush Securities estimates a US-made iPhone could cost as much as three times their current prices.

Trump order may ban Huawei and ZTE from the 5G roll out

On May 23, 2025, President Trump intensified pressure on smartphone giants, declaring on Truth Social that iPhones sold in the US must be made domestically or face a 25% tariff. The statement, directed at Apple CEO Tim Cook, led to a 2.6% drop in Apple’s shares, pushing its valuation below $3 trillion. Trump extended the tariff threat to Samsung and all other smartphone manufacturers during a White House briefing, stating, “When they build their plant here, there’s no tariffs”.

Apple, which produces most iPhones in China and India through Foxconn, faces significant challenges relocating to the US due to limited infrastructure and higher labor costs. Wedbush Securities estimates a US-made iPhone could cost $3,500—over three times the current $999 for an iPhone 16 Pro—potentially reshaping consumer pricing.

Samsung and other Chinese smartphone brands would also need to invest heavily in US facilities to remain in the market, risking similar price hikes.

The policy aligns with Trump’s “America First” agenda, echoing his 2019 push for Apple’s Mac Pro production in Texas. Supply chain disruptions could also contribute to delayed production and increased costs. Analysts warn of broader economic impacts, with 70% of US smartphone components sourced from Asia, per Counterpoint Research. Will Apple and Samsung pivot to US manufacturing, or pass tariffs onto consumers? Clarity may emerge as trade talks unfold.

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(Source)

Philips Wants to Reinvent Eye Comfort with Its New 300Hz Gaming Monitor

Philips has launched a new monitor, the 27M2N3500UK, which it claims is the world’s first to feature hardware-level circular polarization technology. The 27-inch display is priced at 1199 yuan (around $166) and is designed to combine gaming performance with advanced eye protection features.

Philips 27M2N3500UK Monitor

Philips 27M2N3500UK Specifications

The monitor features a 2K QHD resolution (2560×1440) Fast IPS panel, and supports a 300Hz refresh rate with a 1ms GTG response time. Philips targets eSports users and competitive gamers with this high-speed display.

It also supports Adaptive Sync and Smart MBR Sync for tear-free visuals and low motion blur, ensuring a smooth and responsive gaming experience. Philips says the monitor achieves input lag under 5ms with its zero-latency acceleration technology.

The key highlight of the Philips 27M2N3500UK monitor is its circular polarized light structure, developed with BOE and branded as ComfortView Blue 4.0. This technology is designed to reduce directional light stimulation to the eye’s crystalline lens and retina, simulating the spiral diffusion of sunlight for a more natural viewing experience.

The company says it helps alleviate common symptoms such as eye fatigue, dryness, and irritation during prolonged use. The display also includes TÜV Rheinland-certified hardware-level low blue light filtering and flicker-free DC dimming, along with an EasyRead mode designed for reading text comfortably.

The Philips 27M2N3500UK supports 100% sRGB, 95.8% DCI-P3, and 93.8% Adobe RGB color gamuts. It offers Delta E <2 color accuracy out of the box and comes with a factory calibration report. The display supports DisplayHDR 400 certification and reaches a peak brightness of 450 nits for enhanced detail and contrast in HDR content.

In terms of connectivity, it includes HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The monitor supports tilt adjustment from -5° to 20° and includes VESA 100x100mm mounting support. Philips uses over 85% recycled plastics in the build and provides 100% recyclable packaging, reflecting its focus on environmental sustainability.

In related news, Acer has unveiled its ProCreator 6K and 5K monitors with Calman color calibration certification at Computex 2025. AOC has also introduced a new 27-inch Full HD curved monitor featuring a 200Hz refresh rate, 1ms GtG response time, and HDR10 support.

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Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 vs 8 Gen 3: Benchmark showdown

Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 vs 8 Gen 3

The Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 is Qualcomm’s latest sub-premium chipset and a successor to last year’s 8s Gen 3, which has been a hit for the brand. Continuing the trend, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 is here, with impressive performance on benchmarks, even surpassing the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in many tests.

It’s not all-win for the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, though, as the 8 Gen 3 also leads some charts. But how do these two high-end chipsets stack up against each other? Let’s break it down to get a clear picture.

Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 vs 8 Gen 3: Benchmark comparison

Note: The tests were conducted on the Redmi Turbo 4 (Snapdragon 8s Gen 4) and Poco F7 Pro (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3).

AnTuTu benchmark

Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 vs 8 Gen 3 - AnTuTu comparison
SD 8s Gen 4SD 8 Gen 3
AnTuTu score2,050,8812,027,831
CPU460,339415,769
GPU852,942820,344
Memory410,236399,910
UX327,364391,808

In the AnTuTu test, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 scores a slightly higher 2,050,881 points, edging out the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3’s 2,027,831 points. The 8s Gen 4 leads in CPU (460,339 vs. 415,769), GPU (852,942 vs. 820,344), and memory (410,236 vs. 399,910).

However, the 8 Gen 3 retains a noticeable edge in UX performance, scoring 391,808 compared to the 8s Gen 4’s 327,364, indicating potentially smoother user experience in real-world scenarios like app switching and animations.

Geekbench benchmark

Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 vs 8 Gen 3 - Geekbench comparison
SD 8s Gen 4SD 8 Gen 3
Single core2,0412,213
Multi core6,8336,652

In Geekbench tests, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 takes a clear lead in single-core performance, scoring 2,213 versus the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4’s 2,041. This means it may feel slightly snappier in tasks like app launches and UI responsiveness.

However, when it comes to multi-core performance, the 8s Gen 4 pulls ahead with a score of 6,833, compared to 6,652 on the 8 Gen 3. This suggests better handling of heavy multitasking and demanding workloads on Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 devices.

Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 vs 8 Gen 3: Key differences that matter

CPU, GPU, and NPU

Both chips share the same TSMC’s 4nm node and ARMv9.2-A instruction set but have different core designs and core selections. For instance, the 8s Gen 4 features a 1+7 core design, featuring one Cortex-X4 core clocked at 3.21GHz and seven Cortex-A720 cores with varying clock speeds to achieve reliable performance and stability.

On the other hand, the 8 Gen 3 has a 1+5+2 CPU design, with one Cortex-X4 core running at a slightly higher speed (3.3GHz vs 3.21GHz), five Cortex-A720 cores, and two Cortex-A520 cores. The 8s Gen 4 skips Cortex-A520 efficiency cores and uses the Cortex-A720 instead for higher performance.

Coming to GPU, the newly released Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 is equipped with a high-end Adreno 825, which has excellent gaming performance. It even surpasses the Adreno 750 on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 on the AnTuTu benchmark, thanks to higher frequency and shading units. Both chips have a full suite of Snapdragon Elite Gaming features and support hardware ray tracing with Global Illumination for enhanced gaming experience.

Overall, both have powerful GPUs that can smoothly run high-end games, but the Adreno 825 is narrowly ahead, at least on the benchmarks.

While both have a Qualcomm AI Engine with Hexagon NPUs, their capabilities vary. The 8 Gen 3 has better on-device AI capabilities. Additionally, It also supports features like virtual assistant, GPT chatbots, stable diffusion, and more — all performance on-device.

Camera and Imaging

The Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 has 18-bit triple AI ISP with support for 320MP single camera. It supports zero shutter lag (ZSL) at 108MP (single camera) and 36MP (triple cameras). The 8 Gen 3 supports a lower 200MP resolution. With ZSL, the supported camera resolutions are: 108 (single camera), 64MP + 36MP (dual camera), and 36MP + 36MP + 36MP (triple cameras).

The 8s Gen 4 supports up to 4K/60fps video recording, but the 8 Gen 3 also supports 8K/30fps. Even the 4K recording on 8 Gen 3 supports 120fps. Both chips come with a range of AI and non-AI features for improvements.

Qualcomm says the Spectra AI ISP on the 8s Gen 4 enables real-time semantic segmentation for photos and videos with up to 250 layers. The 8 Gen 3, however, only supports up to 12 layers of real-time semantic segmentation. This means the newer chip can identify more elements in images and videos, resulting in better optimization.

The 8 Gen 3 advances in generative AI-powered voice-activated photo and video editing. Additionally, it features HDR photo technology from Dolby, Video Object Eraser, Photo expansion, Truepic photo capture, and Vlogger’s View.

Connectivity

Both Qualcomm chips have integrated 5G modems. However, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 has a higher peak download speed of 10Gbps (vs. 4.2Gbps on the 8s Gen 4). Over a Wi-Fi 7 connection, though, both chips deliver the same 5.8Gbps speed.

Notably, the 8s Gen 4 supports a newer Bluetooth 6.0 standard versus 5.4 on the other chip, potentially offering more reliable connectivity.  

Audio, Display, and Storage

Both chips bring the same audio technology, supporting Qualcomm Aqstic, aptX audio, and Snapdragon Sound technology. There’s absolutely no difference here. The memory and storage, too, have no differences—LPDDR5x at 4.8GHz and UFS 4.0 storage.

The display specs differ, though. The 8s Gen 4 supports WQHD+ (also known as 2K) resolution at a 144Hz refresh rate, while the 8 Gen 3 supports a higher 4K Ultra HD resolution at 60Hz. For external display, the maximum screen resolutions are capped at: 4K Ultra HD @ 60Hz (on 8s Gen 4) and 8K @ 30Hz (on 8 Gen 3).

Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 vs 8 Gen 3: Conclusion

The Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 offers flagship-level performance, even managing to outperform the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in several benchmark categories. With a newer core configuration, a beefed-up Adreno 825 GPU, and support for advanced camera features like 250-layer semantic segmentation, it’s clear that Qualcomm has positioned the 8s Gen 4 as a high-performance chip for premium mid-range devices.

That said, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 still holds its ground with better single-core performance, more capable AI processing, and higher-end features like 8K video recording and faster 5G download speeds. It also supports more advanced generative AI features.

If you’re after raw performance, especially for gaming and multitasking, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 is a very compelling option. But if your focus is on cutting-edge connectivity, superior AI, and ultra-high-end camera and video features, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 still earns its place as a flagship powerhouse.

Snapdragon 8s Gen 4Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
AnnouncedApril 2025October 2023
Manufacturing4nm (TSMC)4nm (TSMC)
CPU1 x 3.21 GHz — Cortex-X3
3 x 3 GHz — Cortex-A720
2 x 2.8 GHz — Cortex-A720
2 x 2.02 GHz — Cortex-A720
1 x 3.3 GHz — Cortex-X3
3 x 3.15 GHz — Cortex-A720
2 x 2.96 GHz — Cortex-A720
2 x 2.27GHz — Cortex-A520
GPUAdreno 825 GPU
Ray tracing support
Snapdragon Elite Gaming features
Adreno 750 GPU
Ray tracing support
Snapdragon Elite Gaming features
NPUQualcomm Hexagon NPUQualcomm Hexagon NPU
Storage/MemoryUFS 4.0
LPDDR5x, up to 4.8GHz
UFS 4.0
LPDDR5x, up to 4.8GHz
CameraSpectra triple 18-bit AI ISP
Up to 320MP single camera
Up to 108MP single camera with ZSL
Up to 36+36+36MP triple cameras with ZSL
Real-time semantic segmentation (up to 250 layers)
Up to 4K/60fps video recording
Spectra Cognitive triple 18-bit ISP
Up to 200MP single camera
Up to 108MP single camera with ZSL
Up to 64+36MP dual cameras with ZSL
Up to 36+36+36MP triple cameras with ZSL
Real-time semantic segmentation (up to 12 layers)
Up to 8K/30fps video recording
ConnectivitySnapdragon 5G modem
Download: 4.2Gbps (maximum)
Wi-Fi 7 (peak speed: 5.8Gbps)
Bluetooth 6.0
Snapdragon X75 5G modem
Download: 10Gbps (maximum)
Wi-Fi 7 (peak speed: 5.8Gbps)
Bluetooth 5.4
DisplayOn-device: WQHD+ @ 144Hz, QHD+ @ 144Hz
External: 4K UHD @ 60Hz
10-bit color depth
Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HDR Vivid
On-device: 4K Ultra HD @ 60Hz, QHD+ @ 144Hz
External: 8K @ 30Hz
10-bit color depth
HDR10, HDR10+, HDR Vivid
ChargingQualcomm Quick Charge 5Qualcomm Quick Charge 5

OnePlus 13T or Vivo X200s: Which is the Best Value Flagship

OnePlus 13T and Vivo X200s represent two of the most compelling upper-midrange flagships of 2025, each pushing boundaries in performance, design, and camera capabilities. With both priced competitively and powered by cutting-edge 3nm chipsets, this comparison matters for anyone choosing between raw performance and feature-rich versatility.

1. Design and Display

OnePlus 13T
OnePlus 13T

Build and Feel:
OnePlus 13T features a refined glass front with an aluminum alloy frame and IP65 rating, offering decent durability against dust and low-pressure water jets. In contrast, the Vivo X200s is rated IP68/IP69, providing stronger water resistance, including full immersion and high-pressure jets. The Vivo also uses premium build elements and is slightly heavier, which lends a more substantial, flagship feel in the hand. The Vivo X200s is the better pick for those prioritizing ruggedness and durability due to its superior ingress protection.

Display Quality:
OnePlus uses a smaller 6.32-inch LTPO AMOLED panel with 1B colors, Dolby Vision, and a peak brightness of 1600 nits. The Vivo X200s features a larger 6.67-inch AMOLED with 5000 nits peak brightness, HDR10+, and Ultra HDR image support. While both have excellent clarity and similar pixel density, the Vivo’s screen stands out for outdoor readability and vivid image rendering. The 5000-nit peak brightness and Ultra HDR support give the Vivo a clear edge for multimedia consumption.

Verdict:
Vivo X200s wins in both durability and display brilliance, making it more suitable for users who prioritize premium build and top-tier screen visibility in all conditions.

2. Specifications

Vivo X200S
Vivo X200S

Performance:
OnePlus 13T runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm), delivering top-tier performance with its custom Oryon cores and Adreno 830 GPU. The Vivo X200s is powered by the Dimensity 9400+, also built on 3nm, featuring the new Cortex-X925 architecture with Immortalis-G925 GPU. While both are extremely powerful, early benchmarks show that the Snapdragon chip in the OnePlus has a slight edge in GPU performance and sustained thermal efficiency during gaming. For those focused on raw performance and gaming reliability, the OnePlus 13T holds the advantage.

Battery and Charging:
OnePlus 13T offers a slightly larger 6260 mAh battery with 80W wired charging and support for various protocols (PPS, PD, QC), including 5W reverse wired. Vivo X200s, with its 6200 mAh battery, supports faster 90W wired charging, 40W wireless, and reverse wired. The inclusion of fast wireless charging gives the Vivo a significant versatility advantage. While both have excellent battery endurance, Vivo’s more flexible charging setup makes it more convenient for modern power users.

Verdict:
Performance favors the OnePlus 13T due to its GPU efficiency while charging flexibility and wireless support give the Vivo X200s the battery edge. Vivo is better for users wanting a versatile power experience; OnePlus is better for high-performance tasks.

3. Camera

OnePlus 13T
OnePlus 13T

Main and Secondary Lenses:
OnePlus 13T uses a dual-camera setup with two 50 MP sensors for wide and 2x telephoto shots. It includes a color spectrum sensor and offers Dolby Vision in video. The Vivo X200s steps up with a triple-camera array: a 50 MP main sensor, a 50 MP periscope telephoto with 3x zoom, and a 50 MP ultrawide. It also features Zeiss optics, laser autofocus, and 3D LUT support. Vivo provides more versatility, superior zoom capabilities, and enhanced optical quality with its Zeiss branding. For photography enthusiasts, Vivo offers more depth and flexibility.

Selfie Camera:
OnePlus 13T comes with a 16 MP front-facing camera that records in 1080p. Vivo X200s has a 32 MP ultrawide selfie shooter that supports 4K video at up to 60fps. The higher resolution and broader angle on the Vivo make it ideal for group shots and vlogging, while its 4K video support ensures superior video clarity. This makes the Vivo a clear choice for content creators and selfie lovers.

Verdict:
Vivo X200s wins in both rear and front camera systems due to its versatile triple-lens setup, higher zoom, and superior selfie features. It’s better suited for users who value camera quality and creative shooting options.

4. Pricing

OnePlus 13T is priced around $550, making it a strong value flagship with high-end specs, excellent performance, and a competitive camera setup. The Vivo X200s costs approximately $650, reflecting its superior camera hardware, wireless charging, and IP69 protection. While Vivo offers more premium features overall, the OnePlus 13T delivers strong performance at a lower cost. For users on a tighter budget who still want flagship power, the OnePlus 13T is the better-value choice. Vivo is worth the extra cost only if camera flexibility and wireless charging are top priorities.

5. Conclusion

Vivo X200S
Vivo X200S

OnePlus 13T introduces the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chip with Circle to Search, a niche software feature for productivity. However, the Vivo X200s pushes boundaries with Zeiss optics, 5000-nit display brightness, wireless charging, and a periscope zoom lens, all typically found in ultra-premium devices. The addition of IP69 durability also sets it apart for rugged use. These unique camera and display elements give the Vivo a distinctive identity among mid-premium smartphones.

Verdict:
Choose the OnePlus 13T for top-tier performance, a cleaner software experience, and strong value at a lower price. Opt for the Vivo X200s if camera versatility, extreme brightness, wireless charging, and superior durability are must-haves. Overall, Vivo X200s is the more feature-rich device, while OnePlus 13T remains the performance-focused value champion.

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Asus launches ROG Strix GS-BE18000 router with tri-band Wi-Fi 7, eight 2.5GbE ports & gaming features

Asus has officially introduced the ROG Strix GS-BE18000 wireless router at Computex 2025. This high-end model shares the “magic cube” aesthetic with the earlier Strix GS7 but upgrades nearly every core feature.

Asus GS-BE18000

Asus GS-BE18000 Specifications

The GS-BE18000 supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard (IEEE 802.11be) and delivers tri-band speeds of up to 18,000Mbps. It distributes bandwidth across the 2.4GHz (688Mbps), 5GHz (5,765Mbps), and 6GHz (11,529Mbps) bands.

The router supports advanced features such as 320MHz channel bandwidth, 4K-QAM modulation, and Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which improve throughput and reduce latency. Asus also includes Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) to extend 6GHz signal range by adjusting power output based on local interference.

The router uses eight internal antennas and ten front-end modules to optimize coverage. Asus claims a coverage area of up to 3,300 square feet, which suits large homes or multi-device environments. It features a 2.0GHz quad-core processor that powers the device alongside 2GB of DDR4 RAM and 256MB of flash storage, allowing it to manage high network loads during gaming and media streaming.

The GS-BE18000 features a total of eight 2.5GbE RJ45 ports, one for WAN and seven for LAN, supporting up to 20Gbps of wired data throughput. Two LAN ports are prioritized for gaming, and a USB 3.2 Gen 1 port allows users to connect 4G/5G dongles or external storage.

The router supports Asus AiMesh, allowing users to integrate it into a larger mesh Wi-Fi network. The Smart AiMesh engine uses MLO to improve mesh routing and maintain low latency. Users can control and monitor the network using the Asus Router app, which includes tools such as Adaptive QoS, traffic analyzer, parental controls, and VPN Fusion.

Asus includes AiProtection Pro powered by Trend Micro to handle network security. This service blocks malicious sites, isolates infected devices, and monitors threats in real-time. The router also supports multiple VPN protocols including OpenVPN, IPSec, and WireGuard.

Asus has added several gaming-focused features. These include ROG First for prioritizing ROG gaming devices, Game Boost for traffic acceleration, and Mobile Game Mode for reducing latency on phones. The router also features customizable RGB lighting, with multiple effect modes controlled via the app.

Pricing and Availability

Asus has not officially announced global pricing or availability, but the ROG Strix GS-BE18000 is already listed on Best Buy in the US for $449.99.

In related news, ZTE has introduced the U60 Pro, a compact 5G hotspot featuring a 10,000mAh battery, Wi-Fi 7 support, and built-in NFC. Meanwhile, Asus has launched the RT-BE82U Wi-Fi 7 router, which offers speeds up to 6500Mbps, supports AiMesh for flexible network expansion, and includes enhanced security features.

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(Source, Best Buy, Via)

Xiaomi devices eligible for Android 16 update

Xiaomi Android 16 eligible device list

Xiaomi is often amongst the first non-Google brands to release the latest Android OS to its devices. Android 15 was no different, and it’s already moving ahead with Android 16. The brand has already released Android 16 beta for select devices, allowing them to get an early taste of the operating system ahead of the wider rollout.

Google has confirmed that the stable Android 16 will be released in June 2025. Xiaomi, however, hasn’t announced a release date for its devices yet, but it’s not going to take longer from this point. We are indeed closer to the Android 16 release, and many of you might be wondering if your Xiaomi device is eligible for this upgrade. So, we’ve prepared a list of Xiaomi devices (that also includes Redmi and Poco devices) that are likely to get the Android 16 upgrade.

Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco Android 16 update list

Xiaomi hasn’t announced which of its devices will be upgraded to Android 16. So, we had to rely on the existing software update policy and some guesswork in preparing this list.

Xiaomi devices

  • Xiaomi 15
  • Xiaomi 15 Pro
  • Xiaomi 15 Ultra
  • Xiaomi 15S Pro
  • Xiaomi 14
  • Xiaomi 14 Pro
  • Xiaomi 14 Ultra
  • Xiaomi 14T
  • Xiaomi 14T Pro
  • Xiaomi 14 Civi
  • Xiaomi 13
  • Xiaomi 13 Pro
  • Xiaomi 13 Ultra
  • Xiaomi 13T
  • Xiaomi 13T Pro
  • Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro
  • Xiaomi Civi 4 Pro
  • Xiaomi Civi 3
  • Xiaomi Pad 7
  • Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro
  • Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra
  • Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro
  • Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14
  • Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4

Redmi devices

  • Redmi Note 14 (LTE/5G)
  • Redmi Note 14 Pro (LTE/5G)
  • Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G
  • Redmi Note 13 (LTE/5G)
  • Redmi Note 13 Pro (LTE/5G)
  • Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G
  • Redmi Note 13R
  • Redmi K80
  • Redmi K80 Pro
  • Redmi K70
  • Redmi K70 Pro
  • Redmi K70 Ultra
  • Redmi K70E
  • Redmi K60
  • Redmi K60 Pro
  • Redmi K60 Ultra
  • Redmi 14R
  • Redmi 14C
  • Redmi 13 (LTE/5G)
  • Redmi 13R
  • Redmi 13C (LTE/5G)
  • Redmi A4 5G
  • Redmi A3 Pro

Poco devices

  • Poco F7 Pro
  • Poco F7 Ultra
  • Poco F6
  • Poco F6 Pro
  • Poco X7
  • Poco X7 Pro
  • Poco X6
  • Poco X6 Pro
  • Poco M7
  • Poco M7 Pro
  • Poco M6 (LTE/5G)
  • Poco M6 Plus
  • Poco M6 Pro (LTE/5G)
  • Poco C75
  • Poco C71

When will Xiaomi roll out Android 16?

While Xiaomi has already released Android 16 beta for a few devices, it has not announced when the stable rollout will begin. If past rollouts are anything to go by, the Chinese brand should start rolling out the update later in June or early July 2025.

The brand usually takes a week or two after Google releases the latest version of Android OS. Take Android 15, for example: It was released on October 15, 2024, and Xiaomi phones started getting it in the first week of November. This year, Android 16 is arriving way too early. It’s confirmed for a stable release in June. So, if early June is what Google is looking for, we might see Android 16 start hitting Xiaomi phones later that month, else July.

As always, premium high-end phones, including the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 14 models, will get the early treat before the update reaches mid-range and cheaper models.

If you have a Xiaomi 15 or Xiaomi 14T Pro, you can install the Android 16 beta right now and get a taste of it ahead of the public release. We have a completed step-by-step guide on this (read here).

Don’t forget to visit our Android 16 section for the latest news. Also, follow our Telegram channel and subscribe to our free newsletter for your daily dose of tech!

Also read:
1. Android 16 beta is now available for these devices
2. Android 16 Beta 4 surprises with major UI redesign