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Can you trust Motorola phones for gaming?

Motorola gaming smartphone

Motorola makes some really good phones. Their eye-catching design preferences, especially for the Edge series, always have my attention. Most of them bring excellent value for the money, making them a great choice for the majority. However, there is always a big question mark on whether Motorola phones are reliable partner for gaming on-the-go?

The mobile gaming industry has had a historic rise in recent years. This has also led to many technological advancements, making them stand against PC gaming. Currently valued at around $100 billion, the mobile gaming industry is expected to hit approximately $119 billion in value by 2027 with a compound annual growth rate of 6.39%, per Statista.

Asus ROG and Nubia’s Red Magic are the leading brands in smartphone gaming. But where does Motorola stand on the chart? Let’s look at various factors to determine if you can trust Motorola phones for your gaming needs.

Chipset

Choosing the right chipset is the most crucial part as it defines the processing limits of a device. The Moto E-lineup consists of entry-level phones with not-so-powerful chipsets but they can smoothly run everyday tasks. They are not suitable for gaming.

The Moto G-series is also not gaming-friendly, but there are some phones like the Moto G75 (Snapdragon 6 Gen 3), Moto G85 (Snapdragon 6s Gen 3), and Moto G55 (Dimensity 7025) with decent mid-range chips to offer a smoother gaming experience in popular titles like PUBG Mobile, Pokemon Unite, and Call of Duty: Mobile, though not at extreme settings.

The Edge and Razr lineups are where you’ll find the most powerful chips in Motorola phones. The Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 is the most powerful chip right now for Motorola phones, powering the Razr+ (2024) (aka Razr 50 Ultra) and Edge 50 Ultra running the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip. While it’s a flagship chip, there exist better options with more powerful CPU and GPU, such as Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 8 Elite, but Motorola is yet to bring phones with those chips.

So, Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 is the best you can get on a Motorola phone. It’s a solid choice for most people, but those looking for the best smartphone gaming experience should go with a more powerful chip, such as Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Snapdragon 8 Elite, or Dimensity 9400.

Cooling mechanism

With a lot of processing comes a large amount of heat, and that’s when the cooling system comes into play. Phones with advanced cooling systems, such as vapor chambers or heat pipes, can efficiently manage heat and let users enjoy a prolonged gaming session without performance drops.

Even if you have a device with a flagship chipset but mediocre heat management, it may struggle with high-end games, as it will reduce performance upon reaching a high temperature. Unfortunately, most Motorola phones lack a powerful cooling system. Motorola Edge 50 is one of them, having a vapor chamber.

So, the bottom line is that Motorola doesn’t focus on bringing the best gaming experience. However, that doesn’t mean they are too bad at gaming. You can still enjoy most of the high-end games out there.

Software and gaming features

Motorola phones offer a near-stock Android experience, and that’s great. They are not bloated with unnecessary apps, unlike most brands. So, having limited apps means more free RAM and storage, which means more resources for your favorite games.

I like the clean software experience on Motorola phones, but they lack some gaming features you’ll find on other gaming devices. They come with Moto Gametime gaming suite that includes features like Block calls, Block notifications, Locked mode (turns off system navigation, gestures, quick settings), High performance (allocates more resources to the game), Screenshot, Screen record, and Acoustic light (adds visual effects to your gaming experience).

Motorola phones also have the RAM boost feature for faster app launches and seamless app transitions.

Verdict

Motorola smartphones offer a well-rounded experience with their clean software, eye-catching designs, and decent performance. However, when it comes to gaming, they fall short of being the ultimate choice. While the Edge and Razr series pack capable hardware, they lack advanced cooling systems and gaming-specific features that further limits their appeal for hardcore gamers.

That said, if you’re a casual gamer who values a clean Android experience and doesn’t push games to their absolute limits, Motorola phones can still meet your needs. But if gaming performance is your top priority, you’re better off exploring options with more powerful chipsets and advanced thermal management systems.

More Motorola stories:
1. Why a gaming Motorola phone would be amazing
2. The best-looking Motorola phones you can buy

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Oppo Find X8 Pro review: Perfect blend of camera prowess, design, and performance

The Oppo Find X8 Pro is a premium smartphone that aims to deliver a top-tier experience, particularly for photography enthusiasts. With its sleek design, powerful hardware, and impressive camera system co-engineered with Hasselblad, the Find X8 Pro makes a strong case for itself in the competitive flagship market. Oppo has crafted a device that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with a smartphone camera. This review delves into the various aspects of the Find X8 Pro, exploring its design, performance, camera capabilities, and overall user experience.

1. Design and Build

Oppo Find X8 Pro
  • 162.27 x 76.67 x 8.24mm (black) / 8.34mm (white) | 215 grams
  • IP68 / 69 rating
  • Colors: Space Black | Pearl White

The Oppo Find X8 Pro boasts a refined and elegant design. Its front and back are crafted from smooth, quad-curved glass that seamlessly blends into a durable aluminium frame. This creates a comfortable and ergonomic grip, despite the phone’s large display.

The Find X8 Pro is surprisingly lightweight and thin, considering its powerful hardware. Oppo has managed to pack in a dual periscope camera system and a large battery while keeping the overall form factor manageable. It measures 8.24mm in thickness and weighs 215 grams, which is impressive considering the powerful hardware packed inside.

The iconic “Cosmos Ring” design element returns, encircling the quad-camera setup on the back. The lenses are arranged symmetrically for a balanced aesthetic, with the Hasselblad “H” logo prominently displayed in the centre. Notably, Oppo has significantly reduced the camera bump compared to its predecessor, making the phone more comfortable to hold and use.

Apart from the Space Black edition, the Find X8 Pro is available in a Pearl White option. With its IP68 rating, the X8 Pro can handle being submerged in 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes, offering solid protection against everyday water damage.

What’s in the box:

  • Oppo Find X8 Pro
  • 80W SuperVOOC charger
  • USB-A to USB-C cable
  • SIM ejector tool
  • Protective case
  • Quick Start Guide

2. Display and Audio

Oppo Find X8 Pro

  • 6.78-inch AMOLED FHD+ (2780 x 1264p), 10-bit colors
  • 120Hz refresh rate, 2160Hz PWM dimming, DC Dimming
  • 4,500nits peak brightness, 1800nits HBM
  • HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
  • Dual speakers

The Find X8 Pro sports a stunning 6.78-inch micro-quad-curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The subtle curves on all four sides provide a more immersive viewing experience without accidental touches.

The display offers sharp resolution, vibrant colours, deep blacks, and excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. It is bright, vibrant, and incredibly sharp, offering a fantastic viewing experience for multimedia content and everyday use. The bezels around the display are minimal, maximizing the screen-to-body ratio and providing an immersive visual experience.

The dual speakers on the Find X8 Pro deliver rich and balanced stereo sound, further enhancing the multimedia experience. Whether you’re listening to music, watching videos, or playing games, the audio quality is impressive, with dual stereo speakers that deliver rich and balanced sound, enhancing the overall multimedia experience.

3. Performance and Software

Oppo Find X8 Pro on AnTuTu, Geekbench, CPU Thtottle benchmarking apps
Oppo Find X8 Pro on AnTuTu, Geekbench, CPU Throttle benchmarking apps
  • Dimensity 9400
  • LPDDR5x RAM | UFS 4.0
  • Variants: 16GB+512GB
  • Android 15 | ColorOS 15
  • 5,910mAh battery | 80W wired charging
  • 50W magnetic wireless charging | 10W reverse wireless charging

The Find X8 Pro is one of the first phones to feature the 3nm MediaTek Dimensity 9400. This chipset delivers exceptional performance with significant improvements in CPU and GPU speeds compared to its predecessor. The phone comes with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and ample space for apps and files.

The Find X8 Pro packs a substantial 5,910mAh silicon-carbon battery that easily lasts a full day of heavy use. When it’s time to recharge, the 80W SuperVOOC fast charging technology quickly tops up the battery, minimizing downtime. The device can go from 0 to 100 percent in around 50 minutes. Additionally, the X8 Pro supports 50W wireless charging for added convenience. The device manages to stay cool even during extensive use for photo or video recording and gaming, with no significant issues reported.

On the software front, the Find X8 Pro runs ColorOS 15 based on Android 15. ColorOS 15 brings a refreshed design, smoother animations, and a host of new features. The user interface is clean and intuitive, offering a pleasant user experience. The only letdown in the software department is the presence of numerous preloaded apps, many of which can be uninstalled. On the positive side, Oppo has promised five years of Android OS upgrades and six years of security updates for X8 Pro users. The above shows how the device performs on benchmarking platforms.

4. Camera and Other Features

Oppo Find X8 Pro
Oppo Find X8 Pro
  • Front: 32MP Sony IMX615
  • Rear: 50MP Sony LYT-808 wide camera with OIS
  • 50MP Samsung S5KJN5 ultra-wide camera with autofocus
  • 50MP Sony LYT-600 periscope telephoto with 3x optical zoom and OIS
  • 50MP Sony IMX858 telephoto with 6x optical zoom and OIS

The Find X8 Pro’s versatile camera system offers incredible versatility and zoom range, from 15mm to over 300mm. While it doesn’t inherit the 1-inch sensor of the Find X7 Ultra, it compensates with a versatile setup that excels in various situations.

Speaking of the individual cameras, the main camera captures stunningly detailed images with accurate colours and excellent dynamic range, making it ideal for everyday photography. The ultra-wide camera, often a weak point in smartphone systems, is surprisingly good on the Find X8 Pro. It delivers sharp images with minimal distortion, even at the edges, and maintains consistent colour and exposure with the main sensor. This makes it a genuinely useful tool for capturing expansive landscapes or group shots.

Oppo’s zoom capabilities are particularly noteworthy. While it may not have the 10x optical zoom of some previous Samsung models, the Find X8 Pro excels in the quality and usability of its zoom. The 3x periscope telephoto camera produces sharp and detailed images, making it perfect for portraits or capturing subjects at a moderate distance.

The 6x telephoto, while having a smaller aperture, still delivers impressive results, especially in good lighting conditions. The transition between these lenses is smooth and almost imperceptible, and the images remain sharp and detailed even at higher magnifications. The digital zoom is one of the major strengths of the Find X8 Pro. As can be seen below, with AI working in the background, the 120x zoomed shots retain good clarity and are quite usable.

The camera’s post-processing adds a pleasing level of depth, contrast, and sharpness to images, resulting in a vibrant and engaging look. This approach contrasts with the brighter, more neutral style favoured by some competitors, offering a different aesthetic that may appeal to those seeking a more impactful image straight out of the camera.

In low-light conditions, the Find X8 Pro continues to impress. Its night mode captures detailed images with well-managed noise and excellent dynamic range. The phone intelligently handles various lighting situations, producing consistently good results without requiring the user to manually adjust settings.

The Find X8 Pro’s camera also excels in video recording, offering 4K resolution at 60fps and a range of slow-motion options. The video quality is consistently high across all lenses, with good detail, accurate colours, and effective stabilization.

And let’s not forget the front-facing camera. The 32-megapixel selfie camera captures detailed and well-exposed self-portraits with good colour accuracy and dynamic range. While it lacks autofocus, it generally produces pleasing results, making it suitable for both casual selfies and video calls.

Beyond the hardware, the Find X8 Pro introduces some innovative features to enhance the user experience. The Quick Button, a haptic-sensitive control on the side of the phone, offers a fast and intuitive way to launch the camera and control basic functions like zoom and shutter release. While not as feature-rich as Apple’s Camera Control, it provides a convenient alternative to on-screen controls, bringing the phone closer to the feel of a traditional camera. However, I did not prefer using it quite often. Rather, I prefer to slide zoom-wheel out using my thumb and switch betwen zoom options.

The Oppo Find X8 Pro comes with other notable features, such as an x-axis linear motor, NFC, studio-level quad microphones, a USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB-C) port, AI LinkBoost, triple Wi-Fi 7 antenna, NFC, and an alert slider.

5. Verdict and Competitors

Oppo Find X8 Pro

Oppo Find X8 Pro Price in India

The Oppo Find X8 Pro is a compelling flagship smartphone that excels in almost every area. Its sleek design, powerful performance, long-lasting battery, and exceptional camera system make it a top contender in its class. The phone’s focus on photography, particularly with its Hasselblad collaboration and telescopic zoom capabilities, sets it apart from the competition.

The Oppo Find X8 Pro has arrived in the following options:

  • 16GB+512GB: Rs 99,999 (~$1,180)

The Find X8 Pro is Oppo’s direct answer to the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max. The handset will also face competition from the upcoming Vivo X200 Pro, OnePlus 13, Honor Magic 7 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. While some of these competitors are already available in China, except for Vivo’s offering, other flagship phones are yet to be released in the global market.

Galaxy S25 leaked: Samsung’s small flagship phone may get even faster

Samsung might be bringing a notable upgrade to the Galaxy S25 series. Rumors have hinted that even its small flagship phone, the base Galaxy S25, might be getting faster thanks to a bump in RAM. We have already covered various reports regarding the upcoming phones, so here’s the latest update on Samsung’s next gen flagships.

Samsung Galaxy S25 gets faster

The South Korean tech giant is apparently planning on leaving the base 8GB + 128GB storage configuration. To recall, the Galaxy S24 featured this as a starting option. However, the upcoming Galaxy S25 will be getting a memory upgrade. The base variant of the Galaxy S25 series was spotted with 12GB of RAM a while back, and now, a fresh rumor claims that this might become the base variant globally.

Galaxy-S25-Qi2
Samsung Galaxy S25 with Qi2 wireless charging

The news arrives from known tipster Abhishek Yadav, who claimed that the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ arrive with 12GB of RAM for the base option. So there won’t be any 8GB option in Samsung’s new premium devices, making the base version on par with the top end Ultra model. While there is no official word regarding these devices, the Galaxy S25 series might upgrade the base storage model for all three models. In other words, the Galaxy S25 would have double the starting storage as the Galaxy S24, which came with just 128GB for the starting version.

Based on what we know so far, the Galaxy S25 series may cost the same as the Galaxy S24 lineup in certain regions. The new flagships could even come with support for Qi2 technology for wireless charging. Owing to the manufacturing woes of its 3nm Exynos chips, Samsung may launch the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra exclusively with the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

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Get Realme GT 6T 5G with an Exclusive ₹10,000 Coupon Discount on Amazon India

A major discount for Realme GT 6T 5G is now live on Amazon India. There’s an exciting Rs 10,000 discount applicable on the Realme GT 6T 5G 256GB and a Rs 7,000 discount on the 128GB variant. It is an exciting deal if you’re looking for a gaming smartphone at an irresistible price. You can grab the exclusive deal via Amazon India.

Realme GT 6T 5G 256GB with 12GB RAM usually retails for the price of Rs 39,998, and with the recent Rs 10000 coupon discount, the user can get it for the final price of Rs 29,998. Meanwhile, the 128GB variant retails for Rs 30,998, and with discount, it can be yours at the final price of Rs 32,998. Apart from the coupon discounts, there are some bank discounts that further drop the final price.

Realme GT 6T 5G is a beautiful gaming smartphone available at an exciting price, and the recent discount is like an icing on the cake. The smartphone ships with Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 flagship SoC with 8/12GB RAM. The smartphone features a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display, 120Hz refresh rate, and 1264 x 2780 pixels resolution. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset, and the device runs Android 14 with Realme UI 5.0, delivering smooth and responsive performance.

In the camera section, it features dual rear cameras, including a 50 MP wide lens with OIS and an 8 MP ultrawide lens, while the 32 MP selfie camera captures detailed shots. There’s Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, and an under-display fingerprint sensor to aid in better connectivity.

Well, the Realme GT 6T 5G is available in configurations ranging from 128GB to 512GB of UFS storage and 8GB to 12GB of RAM, ensuring ample space and high-speed data access.

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Huawei Beats Apple to Dominate the Smartwatch Market Worldwide

Apple has been a market leader in the smartwatch segment for a while now. But the Cupertino based giant has finally been dethroned. In a surprising turn, Huawei has managed to surpass Apple to become the world’s biggest smartwatch manufacturer. So here’s everything we know so far.

Huawei overtakes Apple as the world’s top smartwatch maker

Despite being a seasoned leader in the wearable segment with its premium Apple Watch lineup, Apple lost the lead to Huawei. According to a report from IDC, the Chinese brand managed to surpass Apple from Q1 to Q3 in 2024. Huawei managed to secure a market share of 16.9 percent in these 9 months. It managed to ship 23.6 million smartwatch units, beating out Apple’s 22.5 million shipments. The latter also accounted for 16.2 percent market share in the smartwatch market.

Huawei Watch Ultimate

The Chinese smartwatch market saw a notable year on year growth of 23.3 percent, while other major markets like India and US saw a decline during the same period. In the three quarters, Huawei recorded an impressive 44.3 percent year on year growth thanks to some popular smartwatch models like the Watch GT5, the Watch GT5 Pro, and the Watch D2. Meanwhile, Apple saw a 12.8 percent decline year on year during this same period.

Xiaomi took the third spot, while Samsung and BBK ranked fourth and fifth respectively. This news arrived right after we covered another report regarding the Chinese smartphone market. While Apple was overtaken here, it successfully beat Huawei in its home market for smartphones. It dominated the Q3 2024 sales with the only domestic rival being Huawei.

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Amazon India confirms OnePlus 13R’s chipset information and AI features

The OnePlus 13 series, which includes the flagship OnePlus 13 and its sibling, the OnePlus 13R, is set for an international launch on January 7. While OnePlus has been tight-lipped about the detailed specifications of the 13R, Amazon India has unveiled a crucial detail about the device—its processor.

OnePlus 13r Amazon India

The OnePlus 13R will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, ensuring a performance upgrade over the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered OnePlus 12R. It also sets it apart from the flagship OnePlus 13, which features the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip.

OnePlus 13R will include some AI features too!

Amazon India’s promo page not only confirmed the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC for the OnePlus 13R but also teased AI capabilities like “AI Notes,” which promise to enhance user productivity. This revelation adds to the anticipation for the 13R, which is confirmed to feature a massive 6,000mAh battery. Combined with the efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, users can expect stellar battery life and seamless performance.

Design-wise, the OnePlus 13R will sport a flat display protected by Gorilla Glass 7i on both the front and back, while the frame will be crafted from aluminum. With a thickness of just 8mm, the phone promises durability without compromising on aesthetics.

What else to expect from the OnePlus 13R?

While full specifications are yet to be disclosed, expectations are high for the OnePlus 13R. The smartphone reportedly boasts a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with an impressive peak brightness of 4,500 nits and a resolution of 1264×2780 pixels. The display will support a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals, and achieve up to 1,600 nits brightness in direct sunlight, making it perfect for outdoor use.

For anyone confused between the 13R and the 12R, or considering an upgrade from the 12R, the key upgrades are a larger battery (up from 5500 mAh), a flatter design, an IP69 ingress protection rating (up from the IP64 rating), and, of course, improved performance with the new chip. Gameplay tests of the Chinese variant, the OnePlus Ace 5, have even shown numbers typically expected from this year’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip.

OnePlus’s focus on performance, particularly gaming, is evident. The larger battery, powerful chipset, and advanced cooling mechanisms are likely to appeal to gamers and heavy users alike. We will share more details as soon as they become available.

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(Source)

Vivo Pad 4 Pro specs leak reveals Dimensity 9400, 12,000mAh battery and more

Earlier this year, Vivo unveiled the Vivo Pad 3 and Pad 3 Pro tablets in China. In March, Vivo debuted the Pad 3 Pro, which featured the Dimensity 9300 chipset. On the other hand, the Pad 3 announced in June featured the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC. A new leak, courtesy of tipster Digital Chat Station, has revealed the key details about the forthcoming Vivo Pad 4 Pro.

Vivo Pad 4 Pro key specifications leaked

DCS leaks details about the forthcoming Vivo Pad 4 Pro tablet

According to the tipster, the Vivo Pad 4 Pro will have a regular-sized, custom-designed display. This indicates that it may inherit the 13-inch LCD panel that came with support for a 144Hz refresh rate.

The Dimensity 9400 has powered a couple of flagship phones, such as the Vivo X200, X200 Pro, Oppo Find X8, and Find X8 Pro. It appears that the Vivo Pad 4 Pro will be the first tablet to feature the D9400 SoC.

The leak further states that the rated value of the Vivo Pad 4 Pro’s battery is 11,790mAh. Therefore, it is likely that its typical value could be around 12,000mAh. Regrettably, the device’s other specifications remain undisclosed.

Vivo Pad 3 Pro tablet
Vivo Pad 3 Pro tablet

There is no information about the launch timeframe for the Vivo Pad 4 Pro. Given the Pad 3 Pro was unveiled in March, it’s probable that the successor edition will make its debut around the same time next year. The Pad 3 series has remained exclusive to the Chinese market. Therefore, there is no clarity on whether the brand will release the Pad 4 series outside of China.

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Realme 14 Pro series: Front, rear design unveiled, brings world’s first cold-sensitive color-changing tech

Realme began teasing the arrival of the Realme 14 Pro series. The brand confirmed that the lineup, which is expected to include the Realme 14 Pro and 14 Pro+, will feature the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip and a periscope telephoto camera. The 14 Pro series is expected to break cover in January 2025 in multiple countries, including India. Ahead of the launch, the company held a private conference to unveil the design of the 14 Pro series.

Realme 14 Pro series design revealed

Realme 14 Pro series back panel
Realme 14 Pro series flaunts world’s first cold-sensitive color-changing technology.

Realme has collaborated with renowned Nordic industrial design studio Valeur Designers to develop the 14 Pro series’ design, which features the world’s first cold-sensitive color-changing technology. It debuts industry-first advanced thermochromic pigments that react to temperature fluctuations. Below 16°C, the back cover shifts from pearl white to vibrant blue, reversing as temperatures rise.

On the front, the Realme 14 Pro+ 5G is equipped with a quad-curved AMOLED screen that promises a 93 percent screen-to-body ratio thanks to 1.6mm slim bezels. The overall thickness of the device is only 8mm. The company asserts that the 30-step “fusion fiber” process gives each Pearl White unit of the 14 Pro series’ back panel a unique look.

Speaking of the camera module design, which the company dubs as “Ocean Oculus” triple camera offers the industry’s first “Magic Glow” triple flash, which includes three dual-color temperature LEDs, for natural portrait shots in low-light conditions. When it comes to durability, the device will come with an IP69 rating and TUV Rheinland certification.

Realme 14 Pro+ specifications (rumored)

Realme 14 Pro+
Realme 14 Pro+ image via DCS

According to reports, the OLED screen of the Realme 14 Pro+ will support a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, the device will have the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip and support 80W fast charging. There is no information available about the battery size and configurations of the device.

Realme 14 Pro+
Realme 14 Pro+ image via DCS

For selfies, it may feature a 32-megapixel front camera, and its back panel will have a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS support, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a Sony LYT-600 or IMX82 periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom.

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Oppo Reno 13 Indian variant’s image leaked; Gives first look at design  

Oppo is reportedly preparing to introduce its Reno 13 series, a camera-focused premium mid-range lineup, to the global market in January 2025. The series, which made its debut in China in November, is now ready to make its global debut, probably starting with India. A recently leaked live image, courtesy of 91mobiles, reveals a brand-new dark blue or purple shade exclusive to the Indian market.

Oppo Reno 13 Indian variant’s leaked image

Oppo Reno 13 Indian variant leaked image

In China, the Reno 13 is available in three shades, such as black, purple, and blue. As mentioned above, the leaked image showcases a dark blue/purple shade with an overall design similar to the Chinese variant.

The Indian Oppo Reno 13 variant has an “AI” triple camera setup and a ring-shaped LED. There’s a glow around the camera island, which could either be due to the reflection of light or the placement of an LED strip. The device’s side antenna bands hint at a sturdy metal frame, while the camera bump and glass back appear to be a single, unified piece of glass, reflecting light in a unique glow around the camera module.

The Reno 13 will succeed the Reno 12, which launched in India at Rs 32,999 (~$390). At present, the specifications of the Indian/global version of the Reno 13 are unclear.

Oppo Reno 13 specifications

The Reno 13, available in China, has a 6.59-inch curved-edge AMOLED panel with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it features the Dimensity 8350 chipset, up to 16 GB of RAM, up to 512 GB of storage, and a 5,600mAh battery with 80W fast charging support.

For selfies, the Reno 13 has a 50-megapixel front-facing camera. The camera setup on the back has a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-600 primary camera with OIS support and an 8-megapixel Sony IMX355 ultra-wide lens. The device runs on ColorOS 15, based on Android 15. The Indian variant may likely pack slightly different specs.

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8 reasons why you should consider buying foldables

Foldable smartphones have come a long way, evolving from niche luxury items to practical, mainstream devices. Samsung deserves credit for pioneering and popularizing the foldable phone market, but in 2024, the landscape has matured significantly, with major tech giants like Huawei and Google entering the fray.

Thanks to advancements in technology, foldable phones are no longer just futuristic gadgets; they’ve become versatile tools that can serve as either a reliable daily driver or a powerful secondary device. This year, we’ve even witnessed the debut of innovative designs like Huawei’s Mate XT, a triple-fold device that showcases just how far the technology has progressed.

What’s more, prices are steadily dropping year by year, making foldable smartphones more accessible to a broader audience. Here are some reasons why you should consider buying a foldable smartphone right now.

Huawei Mate XT

1. Design & Functionality

The biggest selling point of book-style foldable smartphones is their innovative design. These devices combine the portability of a smartphone with the functionality of a tablet. When folded, they are compact and easy to carry, fitting comfortably in your pocket.

When unfolded, they offer a larger screen that is ideal for multitasking, gaming, and consuming media. This versatility allows you to switch seamlessly between tasks, making them highly efficient for both personal and professional use.

On the other hand, flip phones, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola Razr, offer a compact design that unfolds into a full-sized smartphone display. This is perfect for users who prefer portability without sacrificing screen size.

2. Enhanced Productivity

Foldable smartphones often come with features that boost productivity. With a larger screen, you can run multiple apps side by side, making multitasking more convenient. For example, you can take notes while watching a video or review documents while on a video call. Many foldables also support stylus input, which is great for creative professionals and note-takers.

With features like drag-and-drop functionality and split-screen modes, foldables are a boon for professionals and power users. Unlike traditional smartphones, foldables minimize switching between devices like a phone and a tablet, consolidating your digital needs into one versatile gadget.

3. Portability Meets Functionality

Foldable smartphones are designed to maximize portability. Book-style devices fold down into a more compact form, making them easier to carry despite their larger displays. Flip phones take portability to another level by folding into pocket-friendly sizes. This is particularly appealing for users who value space-saving gadgets.

Additionally, foldables often feature unique use cases enabled by their form factor. For example, the Galaxy Z Flip’s Flex Mode allows users to prop the phone up at various angles, turning it into a mini tripod for hands-free selfies or video calls.

4. Immersive Media Experience

The expansive screens of book-style foldable devices provide a more immersive experience for watching movies, playing games, or reading e-books. Some foldables feature high refresh rates and vibrant OLED displays, delivering stunning visuals. The larger screen real estate also enhances gaming experiences, giving players a competitive edge in games that require precise controls and attention to detail.

5. Improved Software Integration

The software experience on foldable smartphones has improved significantly, thanks to tailored operating system enhancements. Android now offers features like app continuity and multi-window functionality. When you open an app on the outer display of a book-style foldable and then unfold it, the app seamlessly transitions to the larger screen. Flip phones also benefit from such optimizations, allowing users to access quick settings or notifications on the external display without fully unfolding the device.

6. Improved Durability

Early foldable devices faced criticism for their durability, but manufacturers have made significant strides in this area. Modern foldables now feature robust hinges, water resistance, and stronger display materials.

Additionally, newer devices have significantly reduced the prominence of the crease where the screen folds, making it less noticeable during use. While they still require some care, their build quality has improved significantly, making them more practical for everyday use.

Battery technology and thermal management have also improved in foldable devices. Many models now include dual batteries optimized for their unique form factor, ensuring balanced power distribution and longer life.

7. Innovative Appeal

Let’s face it: foldable smartphones are cool. Their futuristic design and unique functionality make them stand out in a sea of conventional smartphones. Owning a foldable device can be a conversation starter and a way to express your appreciation for cutting-edge technology.

8. Considerations Before Buying

While foldable smartphones offer numerous advantages, they may not be for everyone. They are generally more expensive than traditional smartphones, and their unique design may not appeal to those who prioritize simplicity. Additionally, their durability, though improved, still lags behind that of conventional smartphones.

9. Final Thoughts

Foldable smartphones are more than just a trend; they represent a new way of thinking about mobile technology. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a productivity-focused professional, or someone who values versatility in a device, a foldable smartphone could be worth considering.

As technology continues to evolve, foldable devices are likely to become even more practical and accessible, making now a great time to explore this innovative option.

If you’ve made it this far, don’t miss our article on 7 reasons why foldable phones outshine the iPhone!

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Our review of the Mac mini M4 is up: Video editing performance impressed us!

Apple’s recent Mac lineup update has created quite a stir, especially with the launch of the Mac mini M4. After 16 years of relying on 8GB RAM as the standard, the new Mac mini M4 marks a major leap in performance. Here’s a deep dive into what the Mac mini M4 brings to the table.

1. Design: compact yet powerful

Mac-mini-M4-ports

One of the most striking features of the new Mac mini M4 is its drastically reduced size. Compared to its predecessor, it is now 58% smaller, making it nearly the size of a mini PC. Despite its compact nature, Apple hasn’t compromised on performance or port availability.

The M4 model now has front-facing USB ports, a Thunderbolt port, and a 3.5mm audio jack, along with a revamped HDMI port that supports a wider range of displays. However, the placement of the power button at the bottom of the device still remains questionable, much like Apple’s earlier design decisions, such as with the Magic Mouse.

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2. Energy efficiency and performance

Mac-mini-M4-energy-efficiency

Energy efficiency is another area where the Mac mini M4 excels. When the monitor is turned off, the power consumption drops to just 1 watt, which is akin to the power usage of a PC when it’s entirely turned off. Although the M1 chip was already more than sufficient for everyday tasks, the M4 brings significant improvements.

The biggest jump is in CPU performance, both in single and multi-core processing. In CineBench 2024 testing, the M4 consumed more power than the M1, which is expected given the doubling or tripling of performance in some areas.

3. Video editing performance: a dream for creators

The video export and rendering speed in DaVinci Resolve is noticeably faster, even outpacing our usual desktop PC setup. What stood out the most was the smoothness of 4K timeline previewing. The M4 chip is finally allowing us to preview videos directly within the editing software without the need for constant rendering and exports.

When it comes to special effects, the M4 handles animation and complex visual tasks with ease. However, for more demanding 3D work or more animations, the unified memory might become a bottleneck. While 16GB of RAM is adequate for most tasks, those working on highly detailed projects may need to upgrade to a higher memory configuration.

4. Gaming: better but not perfect yet

As for gaming, the M4 shows improved performance compared to the M1. However, the Mac mini is still not a dedicated gaming machine. For casual gamers, it’s more practical to run iPad games via Playover than to rely on macOS native ports, which remain unreliable and often lack graphical fidelity. Despite the improvements, the Mac mini M4 is still not comparable to gaming PCs in terms of image quality and overall experience.

5. Pricing: a strong value proposition on an Apple product

Where the Mac mini M4 truly shines is in its value proposition. With a starting price of $600 for the base configuration (16GB RAM and 256GB SSD), it offers a significant performance boost at an affordable price. In comparison, similar-priced PCs offer inferior capabilities.

This makes the M4 an attractive option for those who need an entry-level Mac experience but still want enough power for professional tasks like video editing and light gaming. However, those working on larger projects or requiring more RAM should consider upgrading the configuration. You can watch the video for more insights into the tests we conducted.

6. Conclusion: the perfect Mac for most users

Mac-mini-M4-size

In conclusion, the Mac mini M4 is an excellent choice for those seeking a powerful yet compact Mac experience. It offers impressive performance, energy efficiency, and an unbeatable price. While it’s not a powerhouse for high-end gaming or extremely complex 3D tasks, it is more than capable of handling everyday work, creative tasks, and even moderate gaming. If you’re considering a Mac mini, this is a great entry into the world of MacOS without breaking the bank.

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Huawei Mate 70 series sales expected to exceed 10 million units amid high demand

Huawei‘s latest flagship smartphone series, the Mate 70, has taken the Chinese market by storm, shattering expectations and setting new sales records. According to renowned tipster “Digital Chat Station,” the series has witnessed a remarkable surge in sales within its first two weeks, significantly outperforming its predecessor, the Mate 60.

Huawei Mate 70

Mate 70 Series Outperforms Expectations

Industry analysts predict that the Mate 70 series is poised to surpass the 10 million unit mark, a testament to its immense popularity and strong market demand. Unlike the Mate 60, which faced severe supply constraints upon its release, the Mate 70 series has benefited from improved production capabilities, allowing Huawei to meet the overwhelming consumer interest.

Mate 70 Series Outperforms Expectations

Despite increased production, the Mate 70 series remains in high demand, with certain models being resold at significant premiums in the secondary market. This surge in popularity has prompted Huawei to increase production by a substantial 30%, a rare move indicative of the series’ exceptional performance.

Currently, only the standard edition of the Mate 70 series is readily available for purchase, while the Pro, Pro+, and Ultimate Design editions continue to be in high demand, requiring reservations and selling out rapidly.

The Mate 60 series, which made a surprise debut last year, had already exceeded expectations by surpassing 14 million units in sales between its launch and mid-November. However, initial supply shortages likely hindered the series from reaching its full potential.

Industry insiders are confident that the Mate 70 series will not only surpass the 10 million unit milestone but also drive significant sales for Huawei’s older models. Due to the ongoing supply constraints for the Mate 70 series, many consumers have turned to the Pura 70 series, propelling its total shipments past the 10 million mark.

Remarkably, Huawei emerged as the only brand capable of challenging Apple in Q3 2024. Although domestic competitors such as Honor, Oppo, Xiaomi, Vivo, and Huawei itself secured spots in the top 10, their market shares remain significantly smaller compared to Apple‘s dominance. In the high-end segment, Huawei stands out as the sole contender, with the Huawei Pura 70 earning a coveted place on the list.

As Huawei continues to innovate and deliver cutting-edge technology, the Mate 70 series has solidified its position as one of the most sought-after smartphone series of the year.

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Panasonic Unveils LUMIX G97 and ZS99: Powerful Cameras with 4K, Stabilization, and Versatility

Panasonic has introduced two new cameras to its LUMIX lineup: the LUMIX G97, a hybrid Micro Four Thirds camera, and the LUMIX ZS99, a compact travel zoom camera. Both models aim to meet the needs of photographers and videographers with practical features and ease of use.

LUMIX ZS99: A Compact Camera for Travel and Everyday Use

Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 camera
Panasonic LUMIX ZS99

The LUMIX ZS99 is designed for users who need a small, portable camera with powerful zoom capabilities. It features a 24-720mm LEICA DC lens, offering 30x optical zoom and up to 60x with iZoom. This makes it suitable for capturing a variety of scenes, from wide landscapes to detailed close-ups. The camera includes 5-axis HYBRID Optical Image Stabilization, which reduces blur when shooting handheld, even at maximum zoom.

The ZS99 can record 4K video at 30p, ensuring clear and detailed footage. It also supports 4K PHOTO mode, allowing users to capture fast-action moments at 30 frames per second. For creative effects, the camera offers HD high-speed video at 120fps for slow-motion shots. A tilting 1,840k-dot touchscreen makes it easy to frame shots from different angles, and the USB Type-C charging port ensures the camera is ready for use while traveling.

Sharing photos is simple with built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. A dedicated button allows quick image transfers to smartphones. Priced at $499.99, the LUMIX ZS99 will be available in mid-February 2025 in black and silver.

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LUMIX G97: A Versatile Camera for Photography and Video

Panasonic LUMIX G97
Panasonic LUMIX G97

The LUMIX G97 is a hybrid camera that combines advanced features for photography and video. Its 20.3MP CMOS sensor and high-performance processor deliver sharp images with vibrant colors. The camera includes a Live View Composite mode, which lets users combine multiple exposures in real time to create effects like star trails or illuminated scenes without overexposing the background.

The G97 includes 4K PHOTO mode to capture high-resolution bursts at 30fps, making it ideal for capturing quick moments. Its 5-axis Dual I.S.2 stabilization system keeps photos and videos steady, even in challenging conditions. For video, the camera records in 4K at 30p and offers slow-motion and quick-motion options in FHD. It also supports 12 stops of V-Log L for more cinematic videos. Headphone and microphone jacks allow users to control audio during recording.

The camera has a durable dust- and splash-resistant body, making it reliable for different shooting environments. Its free-angle LCD and OLED Live View Finder help with accurate framing and focusing. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity allow easy sharing, and USB Type-C charging adds convenience. The LUMIX G97 will be available in late February 2025 for $849.99, including a 12-60mm lens kit.

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Portronics Launches PadMate: A Versatile Keyboard Case for iPad 10th Gen

Portronics has introduced the PadMate, a new keyboard case designed for the Apple iPad 10th Generation. The PadMate combines a protective case, a functional keyboard, and a built-in trackpad, offering users a near-laptop experience at an affordable price.

Portronics PadMate wireless keyboard

The PadMate is lightweight and sleek, making it easy to carry while providing reliable protection for the iPad. It attaches securely with magnets and features a rotating hinge for adjustable viewing angles. The design focuses on portability and versatility, making it suitable for work, entertainment, and travel.

Portronics PadMate wireless keyboard

The case includes a backlit keyboard, allowing users to type comfortably in low-light conditions. The integrated trackpad supports multi-touch gestures, providing smooth navigation. It has dedicated iPadOS shortcut keys that streamline workflows, while Bluetooth connectivity eliminates the need for physical connections, creating a clutter-free workspace.

The PadMate is powered by a rechargeable battery with a USB-C charging port, ensuring fast and efficient power-ups. This makes it a practical solution for users seeking long-lasting and convenient accessories for their iPads.

Pricing & availability

Priced at Rs. 5,099, the PadMate is available on Amazon, Flipkart, and the Portronics website. It is positioned as an affordable option for users who want to enhance their iPad’s functionality without spending on high-end alternatives.

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In other news, Oppo is reportedly expanding its Pad 3 series with two new models: the Pad 3 Ultra and Pad 3 Mini, according to a Weibo leak by Digital Chat Station. The Pad 3 Ultra is expected to feature a flagship-level flexible OLED display, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, a 10,000 mAh battery, and 100W fast charging. The Pad 3 Mini will offer a compact design with a high-refresh-rate LCD display and a MediaTek Dimensity 9-series chipset, though without 100W fast charging. Both tablets are rumored to launch in Q2 or Q3 2025.

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OnePlus 13 gets a major ColorOS update with new features & optimizations

OnePlus 13 has recently received the latest ColorOS 15.0.0.305 update, which brings a host of exciting features and improvements aimed at enhancing user experience. This update, officially identified as software version PJZ110_15.0.0.305 (CN01), introduces new functionalities across various aspects of the device, from the camera and communication to system stability and applications.

OnePlus 13

What’s new in this update?

The update focuses heavily on improving the OnePlus 13’s camera capabilities. Users will notice better clarity in both portrait and photo modes, alongside enhanced video recording quality at 4K 60FPS. The color performance of the main and telephoto lenses has also been optimized, delivering more vibrant and accurate photos. Additionally, issues related to overexposure in certain rear-camera scenarios have been resolved, ensuring more consistent results.

Connectivity has also received a boost. The update enhances the IPv6 internet experience in WLAN scenarios and improves Bluetooth connection stability and compatibility, ensuring seamless performance during wireless interactions.

The OnePlus 13’s watermark features have been upgraded with customizable styles, including options like Hasselblad, Master Imprint, Film, and Classic Camera series. Live photo editing now supports parameter rollback for adjustments such as cropping, rotation, and filters, offering users greater flexibility. The update also introduces a call summary feature, global voice summaries, and AI-powered noise reduction that operates offline using a local model.

The update brings a fresh charging animation, enhancing the charging notification experience while minimizing full-screen interference. Audio effects have been optimized, and overall system stability and smoothness have been improved.

OnePlus 13, launched in October in the Chinese market, features a 6.82″ 2K+ AMOLED display with 4,500 nits peak brightness, Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, up to 24GB RAM, and 1TB storage. It includes a triple 50MP camera setup with a periscope telephoto lens and Hasselblad tuning. With IP68/IP69 ratings and a 6,000mAh battery, it supports 100W wired, 50W wireless, and magnetic charging. Prices start at 4,499 yuan ($616), with finishes like ebony wood grain glass, velvet leather, and silk glass.

OnePlus 13 is also scheduled for a global launch alongside the OnePlus 13R on January 7. Unlike the Chinese variants with ColorOS, the global models will feature OxygenOS.

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Comparing Vivo S20 Pro and Redmi K80 Pro: Which is Better?

Choosing between the Vivo S20 Pro and Redmi K80 Pro is a tough decision, as both smartphones bring cutting-edge features and excellent value to the table. With advancements in design, performance, and cameras, these devices cater to tech enthusiasts and casual users alike. This comparison dives into key aspects to help you decide which phone suits your needs best.

1. Design and Display

Vivo S20 Pro
Vivo S20 pro

The Vivo S20 Pro boasts an AMOLED display with 1 billion colors, 120Hz refresh rate, and an impressive 1600 nits HBM brightness, peaking at 5000 nits. Its sleek IP64 dust/water resistance makes it a stylish yet durable choice. On the other hand, the Redmi K80 Pro features an OLED display with 68 billion colors, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and a slightly better peak brightness of 3200 nits, complemented by IP68 certification for superior water resistance.

While both phones feature 6.67-inch screens, the K80 Pro edges ahead with higher resolution (1440 x 3200) and ppi density (~526), making it sharper and better for media consumption. However, the Vivo S20 Pro’s high brightness could make it more usable under direct sunlight.

If you prioritize visual vibrancy and durability, the Redmi K80 Pro is the better choice due to its higher resolution and advanced protection features.

2. Specifications

Redmi K80 Pro
Redmi K80 Pro

The Vivo S20 Pro is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ (4nm), while the Redmi K80 Pro runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm). The latter’s more advanced fabrication process and faster clock speeds provide better performance and efficiency. Both models offer similar RAM and storage options, but the K80 Pro goes further with a 1TB variant.

Battery-wise, Vivo provides a 5500 mAh unit with 90W wired charging, whereas Redmi steps up with a 6000 mAh battery, 120W wired charging, and 50W wireless charging. The Redmi can fully charge in just 28 minutes, making it far more convenient for heavy users.

The Redmi K80 Pro’s better chipset, larger battery, and faster charging make it more future-proof and ideal for power users.

3. Camera

Redmi K80 Pro

Both phones feature triple-camera setups with 50 MP primary sensors. Vivo emphasizes versatility with identical resolutions across wide, telephoto, and ultrawide lenses, while the Redmi focuses on superior detail, offering dual-pixel PDAF and 8K video recording. The K80 Pro also provides a dedicated 32 MP ultrawide sensor versus Vivo’s 50 MP shared ultrawide lens.

Selfies are better on Vivo with its 50 MP wide-angle front camera, compared to Redmi’s 20 MP counterpart. However, Redmi supports more advanced video recording options, such as 8K and slow-motion, making it appealing for videography enthusiasts.

For still photography, Vivo’s triple 50 MP setup shines, but Redmi’s advanced video capabilities and telephoto options may appeal to content creators.

4. Pricing

The Vivo S20 Pro is priced at approximately €450, while the Redmi K80 Pro costs slightly more at €500. The €50 difference reflects the K80 Pro’s better protection, advanced display, faster charging, and additional features like wireless charging.

Considering the modest price difference, the Redmi K80 Pro provides better value for money with its extra features and upgrades, justifying the higher cost.

5. Conclusion

Vivo S20 Pro
Vivo S20 Pro

The Redmi K80 Pro stands out with features like IP68 certification, Dolby Vision support, faster charging, and advanced video recording capabilities. Its Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset ensures long-term software and hardware compatibility. Vivo’s S20 Pro, while lacking some high-end features, offers incredible brightness and exceptional selfie capabilities, appealing to casual photographers and those who prefer stylish designs.

Redmi is the obvious choice for tech enthusiasts looking for cutting-edge features, while Vivo caters to users who value aesthetics.

If you want to know more about Vivo S20 Pro and Redmi K80 Pro and know how they fare against other phones, then check the following posts:

HyperOS 2 update is rolling out to these Xiaomi phones

Xiaomi HyperOS 2 update

HyperOS 2 is a major upgrade for Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco devices. It brings important under-the-hood changes that significantly reduce app delays and improve multitasking capabilities. Plenty of new features are also included, such as an AI-powered lock screen, a 3D real-time weather system, a revamped desktop layout, and AI magic painting. The latest upgrade also heavily focuses on improving seamless connectivity with other Xiaomi devices.

So, the new HyperOS 2 update is exciting and has plenty of new features and improvements to explore. However, the update is not rolled out in one go. It’s distributed in batches, and hence, most users have to wait for weeks or months. As of writing this post, these Xiaomi devices have started getting the HyperOS 2 update:

  • Xiaomi 15
  • Xiaomi 15 Pro
  • Xiaomi 14
  • Xiaomi 14 Pro
  • Xiaomi 14 Ultra
  • Xiaomi 14T
  • Xiaomi 14T Pro
  • Xiaomi 13
  • Xiaomi 13 Pro
  • Xiaomi 13 Ultra
  • Xiaomi 13T
  • Xiaomi Pad 7
  • Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro
  • Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4
  • Xiaomi Mix Fold 4
  • Redmi Note 13 4G
  • Redmi Note 13 Pro 5G
  • Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G
  • Redmi Note 12
  • Redmi K80
  • Redmi K80 Pro
  • Redmi K70
  • Redmi K70 Pro
  • Redmi K70 Ultra
  • Redmi K70E
  • Redmi K60 Ultra
  • Redmi Pad Pro 5G
  • Redmi 13
  • Redmi 13C
  • Redmi 12 4G
  • Redmi 12 5G
  • Poco M6
  • Poco M6 Pro 5G
  • Poco C65

These Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco devices are getting the stable HyperOS 2 update, at least in a single region. As you may know, it can take a few days to weeks before the update is available to all regions. So, even if your device is on the list but you don’t see the HyperOS 2 update on your device, wait for it to hit your device. Meanwhile, regularly check for new updates via the Settings app.

In case you’re wondering when your Xiaomi phone will get the HyperOS 2 update, check out the official rollout timeline here.

What’s new in HyperOS 2?

HyperOS 2 introduces three core technological innovations — HyperCore, HyperConnect, and HyperAI — to enhance the user experience, integration among Xiaomi devices, and AI capabilities. Various optimizations have been made to reduce the app delays on smartphones by up to 55% and frame rate drops are now up to 13% improved. Tablets, TVs, and smartwatches are also receiving performance enhancements.

The upgrade brings a new “movie-like” lock screen that uses AI to create personalized wallpapers. There’s a 3D real-time weather system to simulate real atmospheric conditions that’s visually appealing. You’ll also get a new home screen layout with visual upgrades and customizable content, enhancing widget selection.

The animations are much smoother when interacting with notifications or navigating the interface. There are many AI-powered features as well, such as AI Magic Painting for transforming simple drawings into artwork, AI Voice Recognition for real-time text conversation and automatic summarization, and AI Translation for meetings, calls, and videos. There are also AI Writing tools such as text generation, error correction, polishing, and summarization, as well as AI Anti-Fruad for identifying fraudulent calls or face-swapping videos.

HyperOS 2 also lets you use your phone from your tablet in a windowed interface, with the ability to drag phone apps onto the tablet or add them as native apps.

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Comparing Vivo S20 Pro and Vivo X200 Pro: Which is Better?

Vivo S20 Pro and Vivo X200 Pro represent two distinct approaches to smartphone innovation, catering to different audiences. While the S20 Pro focuses on delivering solid performance at a competitive price, the X200 Pro pushes boundaries with cutting-edge features. This comparison highlights how Vivo balances affordability with premium advancements, helping buyers decide which device best suits their needs, preferences, and budget.

1. Design and Display

Vivo S20 Pro
Vivo S20 Pro

The Vivo S20 Pro offers a sleek, modern design with IP64 water resistance, ensuring protection against minor splashes. Its 6.67-inch AMOLED display delivers vibrant colors and excellent brightness, peaking at 5000 nits. Meanwhile, the Vivo X200 Pro takes durability up a notch with IP68/IP69 certification, offering water resistance up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. Its 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display provides superior smoothness with adaptive refresh rates and Dolby Vision, making it ideal for multimedia consumption.

The X200 Pro edges ahead due to its robust design and advanced display technology, making it a better choice for durability and cinematic viewing.

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2. Specifications

Vivo X200 Pro
Vivo X200 pro

The Vivo S20 Pro is powered by the Dimensity 9300+ chipset with 4nm fabrication, offering robust performance for daily tasks and gaming. Its 5500mAh battery supports 90W wired charging. In contrast, the Vivo X200 Pro features the more advanced Dimensity 9400 chipset on a 3nm process, ensuring higher efficiency and power. It houses a larger 6000mAh battery with 90W wired and 30W wireless charging.

The X200 Pro’s advanced chipset and wireless charging make it a more future-proof option, but the S20 Pro remains a strong contender for value-conscious buyers.

3. Camera

Vivo X200 Pro
Vivo X200 Pro

The Vivo S20 Pro boasts a triple 50MP camera setup, offering versatility with telephoto, ultrawide, and wide-angle lenses. It excels in standard photography but lacks advanced zoom capabilities. The X200 Pro, however, takes photography to another level with its 200MP telephoto lens, providing exceptional clarity and up to 3.7x optical zoom. It also includes Zeiss optics and Dolby Vision HDR for professional-grade videos.

If photography is your priority, the X200 Pro’s cutting-edge camera setup is unmatched in this comparison.

4. Pricing

The Vivo S20 Pro is priced at around $450, while the Vivo X200 Pro is significantly higher at approximately $796. This makes the S20 Pro a budget-friendly option, whereas the X200 Pro caters to premium buyers looking for top-tier features.

The S20 Pro offers great value for money, but the X200 Pro justifies its price with advanced features and superior build quality.

5. Conclusion

Vivo S20 Pro
Vivo S20 Pro

Unique to the S20 Pro is its excellent balance of performance and affordability. On the other hand, the X200 Pro shines with features like IP69 certification, 200MP telephoto lens, wireless charging, and satellite connectivity, catering to users seeking cutting-edge technology.

While the S20 Pro is a fantastic mid-range device, the X200 Pro stands out as a flagship offering with innovative features that future-proof your investment.

If you want to know more about Vivo S20 Pro or Vivo X200 Pro and how they fare against other phones thenc chekc out the following:

OnePlus Buds Ace 2 to feature long battery life, durable design, launching on Dec 26

OnePlus is gearing up to launch its latest audio offering, the OnePlus Buds Ace 2, alongside the highly anticipated OnePlus Ace 5 series on December 26th. Initially teased and available for reservation, the company has now officially unveiled the earbuds on Weibo.

OnePlus Buds Ace 2

OnePlus Buds Ace 2 Specifications (Teased)

As per the teaser, the Buds Ace 2 boasts a fresh, rounded design that sets it apart from its predecessor. The cylindrical stems and oval-shaped charging case not only look stylish but also promise a comfortable fit. The contrasting color scheme, with the inner part of the grey case featuring a vibrant green accent, adds a touch of gaming flair to the overall aesthetic. The buds will come in Black and Grey colors.

While specific details about the Buds Ace 2 are still under wraps, we can draw insights from its predecessor, the OnePlus Buds Ace. The original Buds Ace impressed with its 36-hour battery life and quick charging capabilities, delivering 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge.

OnePlus Buds Ace 2

It’s reasonable to expect the OnePlus Buds Ace 2 to build upon this foundation, offering even longer battery life and faster charging times. Additionally, the earbuds are likely to be IP-rated for water and dust resistance, ensuring durability for both indoor and outdoor use.

The OnePlus Buds Ace 2 is also expected to cater to gamers with features like low-latency connectivity, powerful drivers, and immersive audio technologies, these earbuds are designed to provide an edge in competitive gaming.

We can anticipate the OnePlus Buds Ace 2 to support advanced audio codecs like AAC and LDAC, ensuring high-quality audio streaming from compatible devices. Furthermore, active noise cancellation (ANC) is likely to be included, allowing users to focus on their gaming experience without distractions.

Given the competitive pricing of the original Buds Ace, which launched at just 249 yuan ($34) in China, the OnePlus Buds Ace 2 is expected to follow a similar pricing strategy.

Talking about OnePlus’ global launch the company will launch the Buds Pro 3 in a new Sapphire Blue color, matching the OnePlus 13’s Midnight Ocean variant, on January 7, 2025. The earbuds will retain their features, including 50dB ANC, LHDC 5.0 codec, Google Spatial Audio, and up to 43 hours of battery life.

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Widespread boot loop issue reported on Galaxy S22 Ultra since One UI 6.1 update

Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra users are reporting severe issues following the One UI 6.1 update released in September 2024. While the update introduced advanced Galaxy AI features and enhanced functionality, it also appears to have caused significant problems, with many users experiencing device stuttering or being caught in an endless boot loop. “As a result of these issues, I have lost numerous documents, pictures, notes, and beautiful memories,” a user noted.

One UI 6.1 update causing boot loop and performance issues

A growing number of Galaxy S22 Ultra users have taken to social media and Samsung’s official forums to voice concerns about their devices. Complaints include stuttering, random crashes, freezing, and even continuous reboots. Several users claim their phones restart multiple times daily or become entirely unusable due to an infinite boot loop.

These problems reportedly began after installing a One UI 6.1-based update in September 2024. Many affected users sought help from Samsung’s authorized service centers, where they were informed that the issue stemmed from a “faulty” or “fried” motherboard. Since most Galaxy S22 units are out of warranty, customers are being asked to cover the repair costs themselves, even though the update appears to have triggered the problem.

Notably, there have been several instances of the Galaxy S22 Ultra encountering such issues after installing the One UI 6.1 update. Earlier this year, Samsung had to pull the update after similar complaints emerged. The company apparently addressed the issues and re-released the update weeks later. However, the recurrence of these problems has left users frustrated and questioning the stability of Samsung’s software updates.

Frustrated users demand accountability

One user detailed their experience, stating, “Following several AI updates and subsequent patches, I began experiencing random reboots and intermittent Wi-Fi disconnections. Although these issues were manageable at first, a recent update led to an endless boot loop, rendering my phone unusable.”

Galaxy-S22-Ultra-boot-loop

The user further noted that Samsung’s service centers attributed the issue to the motherboard, with repair costs estimated at INR 41,000 (~$481). The exorbitant cost, coupled with the loss of valuable data, has left many customers disheartened.

While companies, including Samsung, are promising more Android version updates, this kind of serious issue makes the promise rather questionable. It remains to be seen if Samsung offers a free replacement or some kind of solution, or if it prefers not to pay attention to the updates at the cost of the trust of the affected users.

Source: 1, 2 ,3 | Via