Reliable tipster Digital Chat Station recently shared a tentative launch date of Nov. 25 for the Oppo Reno 13 series in China. The lineup is expected to include two models: the Reno 13 and the Reno 13 Pro. It appears that the Reno 13 series will also debut in markets outside of China, as the global versions of both phones have received important certification, indicating an imminent launch.
Oppo Reno 13 series receives IMDA certification
Oppo Reno 13, Reno 13 Pro IMDA certified in Singapore
As seen in the above screenshot, the Reno 13 and the Reno 13 Pro have appeared in the database of Singapore’s IMDA certification platform. The standard version has the model number CPH2689, whereas the Pro variant has the model number CPH2697. These model numbers were previously seen in the databases of Europe’s EEC and Indonesia’s TKDN. However, it is only through the IMDA certification that their final monikers have been confirmed.
The IMDA listings only reveal the connectivity features of both devices. Interestingly, it also reveals that the Pro model will come with eSIM support.
Oppo Reno 13 series EEC certified in Europe
Oppo Reno 13, Reno 13 Pro TKDN in Indonesia
Additionally, the Reno 13 has also emerged in Camera FV-5’s database, revealing that it is equipped with a 50-megapixel primary camera on the back. It has a 26.6mm focal length and an f/1.8 aperture. The listing also suggests that the Reno 13 has a 50-megapixel front-facing camera with a 22.2mm focal length and an f/2.0 aperture.
Oppo Reno 13 Camera FV-5 listing
The Reno models launched in the global market bear the same design as their Chinese counterparts. However, the Chinese versions generally have slightly different and better specifications compared to their global counterparts. Recent reports have claimed that the Chinese variant of the Reno 13 Pro will be the world’s first phone to feature the upcoming Dimensity 8350 chipset. Whether the same device will be sold globally is unclear.
To recall, the Reno 12 series was spotted in IMDA’s database in May, and it went official on June 29, 2024, in Singapore. Similarly, the older Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro were spotted in IMDA’s database in November 2023 before going official on Jan. 27, 2024, in Singapore. Therefore, it is likely that the Reno 13 series may debut in January 2025 in Singapore and other global markets.
Redmi has already launched its Note 14 series, while its close competitor, Realme, is set to release the Realme 14 series early next year—and it appears they’re adding a new member to the lineup.
According to a report from 91mobiles, Realme is planning to introduce a Realme 14 Pro Lite 5G, a fresh addition since the brand hasn’t previously included a Pro Lite device in its number series.
With each of these getting a successor—and the addition of a Pro Lite model in the 14 series—the lineup could become even more crowded and confusing for users.
Realme 14 Pro Lite 5G details
Nonetheless, the report reveals that the Realme 14 Pro Lite 5G, set for the Indian market, carries the model number RMX990.
The device will offer four RAM and storage options: 8GB/128GB, 8GB/256GB, 12GB/256GB, and 12GB/512GB. And it will be available in Emerald Green, Monet Purple, and Monet Gold—colors already seen in Realme’s current lineup.
As a new addition, the Realme 14 Pro Lite’s exact price and specifications are still unclear. But its name already indicates it could be a more affordable option than the standard 14 Pro smartphone. So we can at least expect an AMOLED display and Android 15-based Realme UI out of the box.
Realme is rumored to launch the 14 series in India in 2025, but the initial release is expected to focus on only the Realme 14 Pro and Realme 14 Pro+. So the company may release the Realme 14 Pro Lite separately at a later date alongside other Realme 14 series devices. We will keep you updated on any new details we get of the upcoming smartphones. Stay tuned.
As the festive season is nearing, the discounts have started appearing on popular consumer electronics. Following a discount on Beats headphones the previous week, Amazon has discounted the Apple AirTag 4, which is now retailing for $70 for a pack of four Apple AirTags.
Apple AirTags, with its Ultra Wide Band wireless protocol, has become a useful utility to track items. It can work with any iPhone and can work even if any iPhone or Apple device comes within 25 feet of the periphery of the AirTag. However, the Apple Air Tag only works if it gets in contact with the UWB network of any device.
The users can track these on iPhones with proper directional arrows and a distance meter. All these features make it easy for the user to track the lost item without any major hassle. With IP67 water and dust resistance, a replaceable battery that lasts up to a year, and customizable engraving options, AirTag is both practical and personal. AirTag also prioritizes privacy and security, employing encrypted location data and sending alerts to users if an unknown AirTag is moving with them, safeguarding against unwanted tracking.
Apple AirTags are quite in demand due to their several uses and benefits. However, there are some caveats, like that it only works with iPhones and doesn’t come with a point of attachment for connecting keys or any other things. The user has to reply on third-party accessories to make it compatible with the keychain.
It is up for grabs at a discounted price of $70 with a $30 discount. Usually, it retails for the price of $100 in the US.
Keep track of and find your items alongside friends and devices in the Find My app
Simple one-tap setup instantly connects AirTag with your iPhone or iPad
Play a sound on the built-in speaker to help find your things, or just ask Siri for help
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Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Air, anticipated to be the brand’s next ultra-slim model, has encountered an unexpected setback. Initially, Apple aimed to introduce a high-density battery to achieve a thinner profile, but the iPhone 17 Air is now expected to debut with increased thickness.
According to Naver user yeux1122, Apple has faced challenges in developing this high-density battery, forcing the company to abandon its ultra-slim design goal.
iPhone 17 Slim mock render
Battery limitations force Apple to rethink the iPhone 17 Air’s design
Originally envisioned as Apple’s thinnest iPhone since the 6.9mm iPhone 6, the iPhone 17 Air was designed to surpass this benchmark by using a battery with a thinner substrate. However, manufacturing difficulties and high production costs have led Apple to modify its plans. As a result, the iPhone 17 Air is now expected to exceed 7mm in thickness, falling short of its initial ultra-thin promise.
This development raises questions about the relevance of the iPhone 17 Air if it doesn’t significantly reduce thickness compared to existing models. For instance, the current iPhone 16 Plus which is expected to replace the Air is 7.8mm thick, so a minor reduction may not be enough to make the 17 Air stand out.
Despite this change, the iPhone 17 Air is still expected to deliver significant upgrades in display, performance, and camera. It’s likely to feature ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate, an upgraded 48MP camera sensor, and improvements in front camera resolution from 12MP to 24MP. Additionally, Apple plans to integrate its self-developed 5G modem.
Apple isn’t alone in facing these challenges. Samsung is reportedly experiencing similar issues with its own upcoming ultra-slim model, the Galaxy S25 Slim, slated for release in early 2024. Reports indicate Samsung has encountered hurdles with battery density, which was intended to enable a slimmer design without compromising battery life.
Consequently, the Galaxy S25 Slim may also end up thicker than planned, although Samsung is reportedly using a new battery technology. Due to these constraints, Samsung may limit the initial release quantities of the Galaxy S25 Slim.
More rumors are on the horizon, and we’ll keep you posted with the latest updates. In the meantime, you can explore our iPhone 17 Air roundup for all the details on what’s known so far about this radical “slim” iPhone.
Samsung may have led the 3nm race with its Gate-All-Around (GAA) process, but the production yields from this process have yet to meet satisfactory levels, if a new leak coming out of Korea is to be believed.
A report from Naver reveals that Samsung initially set an ambitious target of 70% yield for both its first- and second-generation 3nm GAA processes. However, this goal now appears far out of reach.
Reportedly, the first iteration, dubbed “SF3E-3GAE,” is faring comparatively better, with yields hovering around 50-60%. While this is closer to the target than its younger sibling, it still falls short of the level needed to make the technology commercially attractive.
This shortfall seems to be a key reason behind the lack of new clients adopting Samsung’s 3nm GAA process. Qualcomm’s decision to manufacture the Snapdragon 8 Elite exclusively on TSMC’s 3nm “N3E” architecture is a case in point.
It keeps getting worse…
The outlook for Samsung’s second-generation 3nm process (dubbed SF3-3GAP), however, is even grimmer. The report suggests its yield rates are just 20%, less than a third of the initial target.
This lack of progress could further undermine confidence in Samsung’s 3nm offering, and could potentially drive even South Korean clients toward TSMC’s more established 3nm technology.
Samsung’s 3nm GAA technology might be turning into a bit of a headache. This could explain why the company seems to be shifting resources and talent towards its upcoming 2nm node.
Rumors suggest that an unnamed Exynos chipset, codenamed “Ulysses,” is being developed using the “SF2P” technology. This chip is expected to debut in a future Galaxy S model, possibly the S27 in 2027.
It remains to be seen, however, if Samsung can overcome these hurdles and establish its 3nm technology as a viable alternative. If not, the future of the company’s next flagship Exynos 2500 SoC could also be in doubt.
Redmi is expected to unveil its K80 and K80 Pro smartphones in China later this month. These devices are expected to launch globally as rebranded models in the Poco F7 series.
The Redmi K80 will likely be branded as the standard Poco F7, while the K80 Pro may take on the Poco F7 Ultra name.
Recently, the Poco F7 appeared on Singapore’s IMDA certification website, hinting at a global release soon. The device is listed with model number 24117RK2CG, where the “G” suffix indicates it’s a global model.
As usual, the listing doesn’t reveal any specs but confirms 5G connectivity. It also shows support for standard features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC. Before this, both the Poco F7 Pro and Poco F7 Ultra models appeared on the IMEI database.
Poco F7 Pro: What we know so far
The Redmi K80 is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, and based on the historical relationship between the two brands, the Poco F7 Pro is likely to follow suit.
Likewise, we are expecting an OLED panel on the front with a 2K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. It may also house a substantial 6000mAh battery. Recently, the Redmi K80 appeared on China’s 3C certification site, showing 120W charging, which the Poco F7 Pro will likely match.
Alleged Redmi K80
An alleged real-life image of the Redmi K80 has also surfaced in a report, revealing a redesigned look with a circular camera island. It’s still unclear if the Poco F7 Pro will adopt the same design.
While the official launch date for the Poco F7 Pro hasn’t been confirmed, the IMDA certification hints that it’s just around the corner. With the Redmi K80 series expected to debut in China later this month, a global launch for the Poco F7 Pro and Poco F7 Ultra is likely to follow soon after.
In a recent performance comparison by Golden Reviewer, MediaTek‘s latest flagship chipset, the Dimensity 9400, has demonstrated impressive GPU capabilities, potentially setting a new standard in graphics performance for flagship Android devices.
MediaTek Dimensity 9400 vs Apple A18 Pro
Although MediaTek has generally trailed behind Apple’s A-series chips and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon lineup in overall performance, the Dimensity 9400 is proving to be a fierce competitor in the GPU arena. The 12-core Arm Immortalis-G925 GPU embedded in the Dimensity 9400 chipset showcased both power and efficiency in various GPU tests, surpassing Apple’s A18 Pro GPU in specific metrics.
Detailed breakdown of Golden Reviewer’s tests
The tests examined the Dimensity 9400’s graphics performance against Apple’s A18 Pro, focusing on 3DMark benchmarks. In the Solar Bay ray-tracing test, the Dimensity 9400 scored an impressive 11,817 points while drawing 11.4 watts of power. In comparison, Apple’s A18 Pro recorded a lower score of 8,587 while consuming slightly less power at 11.1 watts. This gives the Dimensity 9400 an approximate 30% efficiency edge over the A18 Pro—a remarkable feat, especially in a competitive landscape dominated by Apple’s GPU prowess.
Other tests yielded similar results. On 3DMark’s Steel Nomad Light and WildLife Extreme tests, the Dimensity 9400 consistently scored higher than the A18 Pro while drawing less power, establishing around a 40% efficiency advantage. These outcomes underscore the Dimensity 9400’s potential to outperform the A18 Pro in high-intensity graphics tasks, making it a solid choice for gaming and other GPU-demanding applications on Android devices.
Additional Information on the Dimensity 9400 and A18 Pro
The Dimensity 9400’s GPU enhancements represent a significant leap from its predecessor, the Dimensity 9300. Its 12-core Arm Immortalis-G925 GPU offers a 40% boost in ray-tracing performance and a 41% increase in peak performance. Additionally, it integrates MediaTek’s HyperEngine technology, designed to enhance super-resolution and visual quality, particularly for gaming. This combination of improvements makes the Dimensity 9400 a top-tier choice in the premium Android market, catering to users who prioritize high-quality graphics and efficient performance.
Apple’s A18 Pro, while outperformed in these specific GPU tests, is still a formidable chipset. Its six-core GPU boasts a nearly 40% improvement over the previous iPhone 15 series, enhancing its ability to handle gaming and computational photography. Despite the Dimensity 9400’s lead in the GPU benchmarks, the A18 Pro remains competitive, particularly when it comes to overall performance, including CPU efficiency and multitasking capabilities.
OnePlus officially launched its latest magnetic power bank alongside the new OnePlus 13 smartphone a couple of weeks back in China. Aptly named the OnePlus Magnetic Power Bank, it’s now finally available for purchase on the mainland. Let’s get into specifications, features, and price details here.
OnePlus Magnetic Power Bank Specifications
The power bank itself is a dark, minimalist affair. You can see the familiar OnePlus logo on the front, alongside the words “Magnetic Power Bank”, leaving no doubt about its function. It’s a wireless battery pack that you can attach to the back of your phone.
Following the current trend of ultra-thin profiles, OnePlus claims the power bank can “easily fit into a wallet.” Made from a seemingly sturdy 5 series aviation aluminum, it weighs a mere 120g and measures a mere 0.88 cm at its thinnest point.
While it seems tailor-made for the new OnePlus 13 with its flat bottom that avoids camera blockage, the power bank’s magnetic capabilities extend beyond OnePlus phones. It utilizes NTC resistors for active temperature control and, perhaps most notably, supports wireless charging for iPhones.
There are four small lights on the bottom to indicate the remaining power, while a button on the side allows users to activate the power bank. With a capacity of just 5000mAh, however, it can’t fully charge the OnePlus 13’s larger 6000mAh battery in one go. The company itself is advertising it as a companion for traveling.
Price and Availability
The OnePlus Magnetic Power Bank is priced at 149 yuan (around $21). Interestingly, OnePlus’ parent company, Oppo, also unveiled a similar magnetic power bank with identical specifications on the same day. Both power banks offer 5000mAh capacity, wireless charging for various devices, and a lightweight design for portability. They are likely the same product but with different branding.
Realme GT 7 Pro is a high-performance smartphone designed for users who seek both power and premium features. With its impressive hardware and advanced features, this device is built for multitasking, gaming, photography, and fast connectivity. The Realme GT 7 Pro is available starting at $619.00 and can be purchased from Giztop.
Sleek Display and Design
The Realme GT 7 Pro features a stunning 6.78-inch Samsung Eco² OLED display, known for its energy efficiency and vibrant colors. With a 120Hz refresh rate, this screen ensures smooth visuals, ideal for gaming, video playback, and seamless navigation. It boasts an astounding 2600Hz touch sampling rate for ultra-responsive touch sensitivity. The display reaches a peak brightness of 6000 nits, making it easily viewable even under direct sunlight, and it supports 2160Hz PWM dimming to reduce eye strain during extended use.
Powerful Performance with Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC
Under the hood, the Realme GT 7 Pro is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite octa-core processor, paired with either 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM. This combination delivers outstanding speed and efficiency, making it capable of handling even the most demanding applications, games, and multitasking needs. Running on Realme UI 6.0, based on Android 15, the device provides an intuitive and smooth user experience with updated features and enhanced security.
Advanced Camera System for Photography Lovers
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the Realme GT 7 Pro’s camera setup. The triple rear camera system includes a 50MP primary Sony IMX906 sensor with OIS, a 50MP periscope telephoto lens with OIS and 3x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens with a 122-degree field of view. Together, these sensors capture sharp, clear, and vibrant images, even in low light. On the front, there’s a 16MP camera for high-quality selfies and video calls.
Ample Storage and Battery Capacity
The Realme GT 7 Pro offers substantial storage options with choices of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB UFS 4.0 storage. This ensures ample space for apps, photos, and files without the need for external storage. Powering the device is a 6500mAh battery, providing extended usage time, and it supports 120W Supervooc fast charging, which quickly recharges the battery so you can get back to your tasks without delays.
Enhanced Cooling and Gaming Mode
For gamers, the Realme GT 7 Pro is equipped with a diamond ice core cooling system that uses aerospace-grade cooling gel, tempered VC, and 3D graphene layers. Covering 4129mm², this cooling technology ensures stable performance even during extended gaming sessions. The dedicated GT Mode 3.0 optimizes gaming experience with enhanced image quality, faster loading times, dynamic sound, and 4D in-game vibrations.
Other Notable Features
The Realme GT 7 Pro includes an under-display fingerprint sensor for secure and fast unlocking. It supports Dolby Atmos audio, delivering immersive sound for movies, music, and games. With 5G connectivity, users can enjoy fast internet speeds for downloading, streaming, and browsing. The device also supports dual SIM cards, with one card designated for 4G when both are in use.
Caviar, the luxury smartphone customizer based in Dubai, has unveiled its latest “Visionaries” collection, introducing exclusive custom designs for the iPhone 16 Pro series.
This collection celebrates influential figures, with models dedicated to Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Steve Jobs. Each piece is crafted with high-end materials, unique engravings, and symbolic elements that embody the legacy of these prominent personalities.
Caviar Visionaries Collection
The Steve Jobs model, starting at $9,340, pays homage to Apple’s late co-founder. This model is crafted from impact-resistant titanium and finished with a sleek black PVD coating. It features a gold-colored engraving and Apple’s iconic logo, adorned with double electroplated gold for a striking effect.
The Trump Great Again model commemorates Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential victory, starting at $9,200. It sports an aerospace-grade titanium body with a wear-resistant black PVD coating, reflecting the architectural essence of the Trump Tower. It comes with a red center insert symbolizing Trump’s iconic red tie and his election ballot checkmark. The design equips an engraved “Great Again” slogan as a nod to his campaign, with stars and stripes detailing to honor the American flag.
The Musk Be On Mars edition, which starts at $9,990, celebrates Elon Musk’s SpaceX ambitions. Its standout feature is a real fragment of the SpaceX Starship embedded in the phone’s body, acquired from a Starship crash collector. Designed in space black, the model showcases laser-engraved space landscapes and a bas-relief of the Dragon spacecraft. Musk’s name and signature are also displayed, further emphasizing his role in space exploration.
The Caviar Visionaries collection features the iPhone 16 series, including the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, along with the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max from the previous generation. Available in storage options from 128GB to 1TB, each model is a limited collector’s piece, with only 99 units produced.
HP has introduced the OMEN 35L gaming desktop in India, designed for gamers who want both strong performance and customization options. The launch meets the growing demand for high-performance gaming desktops in India, catering to users seeking systems capable of handling current and future game requirements.
Key Features for Gamers
The HP OMEN 35L is built to provide reliable performance, suited for both casual and serious gamers aiming to maximize their setups.
Powerful Core Components The OMEN 35L features Intel’s 14th Gen Core i7-14700F processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 with 8 GB VRAM, enabling smooth gameplay at high settings without significant lag. It includes 16 GB Kingston FURY DDR5-4400 MHz RAM with RGB heatsinks for fast performance and customizable lighting. A 1 TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD provides ample storage with fast load times for games and applications.
Customizable Design
The OMEN 35L allows for easy upgrades, such as changing the graphics card or adding memory, making it adaptable to future gaming needs. The OMEN Gaming Hub software enables users to monitor performance, adjust RGB lighting, and overclock components for improved power.
Effective Cooling System To handle long gaming sessions, the OMEN 35L includes two 140mm ARGB fans and a 240mm liquid cooling system, effectively managing heat to prevent performance drops.
Comprehensive Connectivity The OMEN 35L offers multiple ports for gaming peripherals and VR gear, including a USB Type-C port with HP Sleep and Charge, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 2.0, HDMI 2.1, and Wi-Fi 6E with Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connections.
Price and Availability
The HP OMEN 35L is now available in India through HP’s official online store, starting at ₹1,39,999. With its powerful specifications, efficient cooling, and upgrade-friendly design, the OMEN 35L is a solid choice for gamers looking for a reliable and future-ready pre-built gaming desktop.
Flagship smartphones typically launch with cutting edge technology, the latest features, and sleek new designs. But for the best high end phones, you also have a premium price tag. If you’re looking to buy a high-end device without breaking the bank, timing your purchase can make a significant difference. So here’s when you should consider buying a flagship smartphone to get the most value for your money.
1. Discount on Previous Models After New Flagship Launches
One of the best times to buy a flagship smartphone is right after a new model is launched. Smartphone brands like Apple, Samsung, OnePlus, and others have an annual release timeline for their top tier smartphones. So when the latest model drops, last year’s devices usually get an official price cut. This makes it a great opportunity for buyers to get their hands on a premium device without the same hefty price tag.
Going for a flagship device from the previous year means you do miss out on some new features, but there’s usually never a big difference. Brands often roll out small upgrades between generations, which include performance, camera, battery, and even some new software features. But skipping on these, you could get a deal that saves you hundreds of dollars.
2. Buy During the Festive Sales: Black Friday, Diwali, and Others
The festive season that brings festive sales is one of the best times to eye a flagship smartphone purchase. Majors sales events include Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Amazon Prime Day sales, and even regional sales during festivals like Diwali are great examples of this. During these events, customers can find significant price cuts, bundled deals, and exclusive offers on flagship phones.
Retailers also offer no-cost EMI options, free accessories, and much more. Older premium phones get a sizeable discount, while there are times that newer flagship models get some good offers or limited time deals. There are also end of the year sales or clearance sales, which is commonly in December and early January.
3. Exchange Programs and Carrier Deals
Many smartphone manufacturers often offer trade in or exchange programs with their launches. This isn’t always the case with new releases, but these might arrive a few months after their announcement. Older models usually get attractive deals when you exchange your older phone for a new one. There are also decent deals from carriers as well. With companies offering promotional deals and new plans.
The performance gap between Android phones and iPhones is almost blurred as Qualcomm takes on Apple with its most powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. The newest Snapdragon chip promises huge performance and efficiency upgrades, and so does Apple’s A18 Pro, which powers the iPhone 16 Pro models. But how do they stack up against each other? Let’s put them through benchmark tests to find out which one holds the crown.
Let’s look at the spec sheet first for a quick overview:
Snapdragon 8 Elite
Apple A18 Pro
Announced
October 2024
September 2024
Process node
3nm
3nm
Manufacturer
TSMC
TSMC
CPU
2 x 4.32GHz (Oryon) 6 x 3.53GHz (Oryon)
2 x 4.04GHz (High-performance) 4 x 2.2GHz (Energy-efficient)
GPU
Adreno 830 GPU Unreal Engine 5.3 running Nanite on smartphones Hardware accelerated ray tacing Snapdragon Elite Gaming features
[Note: We tested the Realme GT7 Pro (powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite) and iPhone 16 Pro Max (powered by A18 Pro) for benchmark results.]
Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Apple A18 Pro: Geekbench score
Geekbench runs a device through a series of tests to measure its CPU capabilities. The benchmarking platform outputs single-core and multi-core performance results.
Here’s how the two chips performed:
In the single-core test, the Snapdragon 8 Elite and Apple A18 Pro obtained similar scores. However, there’s a clear gap in the multi-core test, where the Snapdragon chip is ahead of the A18 Pro with over 15% higher score.
Snapdragon 8 Elite
Apple A18 Pro
Single-core
3,156
3,291
Multi-core
9,489
8,146
Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Apple A18 Pro: AnTuTu score
AnTuTu is popular benchmarking tool for measuring CPU, GPU, UX, and memory of a devices. The total score represents the overall strength. One thing to note here is that the AnTuTu for Android runs on Vulkan API, while the AnTuTu for iOS runs on Metal API.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite is a clear AnTuTu winner, leaving the Apple A18 Pro behind by a significant margin. Notably, the Snapdragon chip did a lot better in terms of GPU and memory performance.
Snapdragon 8 Elite
Apple A18 Pro
AnTuTu score
2,764,150
1,756,810
CPU
584,894
469,595
GPU
1,134,684
640,006
Memory
644,600
289,171
UX
399,972
358,038
Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Apple A18 Pro: 3DMark score
3DMark is a popular platform for GPU testing. It has a variety of benchmarking tools for testing various gaming capabilities devices. For this comparison, we chose the WildLife Extreme Stress (for testing sustained performance under heavy graphical loads) and Solar Bay (for evaluating ray tracing performance).
3DMark WildLife Extreme Stress Test
The powerful Adreno 830 GPU inside the Snapdragon 8 Elite did an excellent job in 3DMark tests compared to the 6-core GPU inside the A18 Pro. In the WildLife Extreme Stress Test, the Snapdragon chip resulted in 82.4% stability, while the A18 Pro was only 68.1%. The temperatures are almost similar, though.
Snapdragon 8 Elite
Apple A18 Pro
Stability
82.4%
68.1%
Temperature
42.8° C
42.3° C
3DMark Solar Bay
The Snapdragon 8 Elite also dominates the Solar Bay charts. It achieved 40.68 FPS (average), while the A18 Pro got 30.6 FPS (average). The former chip has a higher overall score and became less hot than the A18 Pro (it also depends on the cooling solution integrated into a device).
Snapdragon 8 Elite
Apple A18 Pro
Overall score
10,564
8,013
Average FPS
40.68 FPS
30.6 FPS
Temperature
43.6° C
45.5° C
Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Apple A18 Pro: Key differences
Snapdragon 8 Elite is Qualcomm’s first chipset to feature custom Oryon CPU cores, and the results are impressive so far. It’s an octa-core chip, which includes two large cores clocked at 4.32GHz and six mid-cores at 3.53GHz. Apple A18 Pro, on the other hand, has a six-core CPU: two large cores clocked at 4.04GHz and four efficiency cores at 2.2GHz.
Not only does the Snapdragon 8 Elite have two additional CPU cores, but it also has a higher peak CPU frequency of 4.32GHz (vs. 4.04GHz on the A18 Pro). For graphics rendering, the Snapdragon chip has an Adreno 830 GPU, and the Apple A18 Pro has a 6-core GPU. Both are high-performance GPUs with hardware-accelerated ray tracing support.
The two chips have powerful NPUs: a hexagon NPU with multimodal Gen AI support on the Snapdragon 8 Elite and a 16-core neural engine with support for 35 trillion operations per second (TOPS) on the A18 Pro. They pack similar connectivity features, though, except for a higher Bluetooth standard on the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Apple A18 Pro: Final words
The Apple A18 Pro and Snapdragon 8 Elite are the best smartphone chips. Both feature strong CPUs that can easily handle all your processing needs, and GPUs are good enough for buttery smooth gaming for a long session. They also have integrated powerful AI chips. However, when it comes to benchmark results, the Snapdragon 8 Elite leads the chart.
Although the Snapdragon 8 Elite has an edge over the Apple A18 Pro on benchmarks, choosing one really boils down to your preferred ecosystem. If you’re highly invested into the Apple ecosystem, the A18 Pro would be a better choice; otherwise, go for the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
Earlier this year, Apple launched its much-anticipated Vision Pro, which fell short of becoming a fully successful product. Now, reports suggest that Apple is setting its sights on a game-changing smart glasses project, aiming to redefine the wearable tech industry.
Credit: PhoneArena
Apple’s Secret Smart Glasses Project
While the tech giant has been tight-lipped about specific details, recent reports suggest that the company is running internal focus groups under the code name “Atlas” to gather insights on smart glasses, with its Product Systems Quality team leading the initiative. This research, which started last week, involves collecting feedback from employees on consumer preferences and market trends, with further studies planned soon.
This strategic move echoes Apple’s approach with previous products like AirPods, HomePod, and the recently unveiled Vision Pro. By understanding user needs and expectations, Apple aims to deliver a true AR experience that surpasses existing offerings.
However, the road to realizing Apple’s vision for smart glasses is a long one. Competitors like Meta and Snap have already introduced consumer smart glasses, and their true AR glasses are on the way, with prototypes in the early development stages.
However, Apple’s stringent quality standards and pursuit of cutting-edge technology may push the launch date to at least five years from now. Despite the significant challenges, Apple remains undeterred, investing heavily in research and development to overcome technical hurdles and deliver a seamless, user-friendly experience.
The potential approach involves creating a lightweight, stylish pair of glasses that seamlessly integrates with the iPhone, leveraging the smartphone’s processing power to deliver a rich AR experience. This strategy could help accelerate the development process and ensure a smoother user experience.
However, the ultimate goal is to develop a fully standalone pair of smart glasses that can operate independently, offering unparalleled freedom and flexibility. To achieve this, Apple will need to make significant advancements in battery technology, chip design, and display technology.
Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly set to release the Vision Pro 2 by 2025 or early 2026, featuring a powerful M5 chip to boost its augmented reality capabilities, while shelving plans for a more affordable Vision Pro due to concerns over demand. The new Vision Pro model will retain the sleek design of its predecessor but aims to deliver a more enhanced and immersive experience.
Flydigi Direwolf 3 Naruto Gaming Controller is a standout device for gamers who appreciate the premium design and top-notch functionality. With a unique Naruto-themed aesthetic, this controller combines the appeal of anime culture with advanced technology to create a gaming experience that caters to professionals and enthusiasts alike. Engineered for high performance, it’s a multi-platform controller that is compatible with Windows PC, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS, and even TVs. The Flydigi Direwolf 3 Naruto Edition promises impressive response times, adaptive triggers, and unparalleled precision.
Price and Availibility:
Flydigi Direwolf 3 Naruto Co-Branded Gaming Controller is available for pre-sale at Geekwills for $69.99, with shipping scheduled to begin on November 23. This pre-sale offers early access, allowing customers to secure their purchase ahead of the official release date.
Advanced Adaptive Triggers and Responsive Joystick
The Direwolf 3 controller comes equipped with adaptive triggers, allowing users to feel every press with sensitivity tailored to their gaming needs. It features a Hall Effect Gaming Trigger that ensures fast and accurate responses, enhancing control over each movement. Additionally, the force-adjustable lever joystick includes a joystick-dedicated chip, supporting a linear control curve and 12-bit sampling. This unique feature enables gamers to customize the joystick’s sensitivity and control range, from light 40gf up to a firmer 100gf, adjusting for comfort and play style.
Multi-Platform Compatibility and Multiple Connection Modes
One of this controller’s greatest assets is its versatility. Gamers can switch seamlessly between platforms such as PC, Nintendo Switch, TV, Android, Xbox Steam, and more. It offers three connection modes: wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4G wireless dongle, giving gamers flexibility and convenience in how they connect. Regardless of the mode selected, the Flydigi Direwolf 3 maintains high stability and precision across platforms, making it an excellent option for gamers who play on various devices.
Ultra-High Polling Rate and Extended Battery Life
In gaming, milliseconds matter. The Direwolf 3 Naruto Edition boasts an impressive 1000Hz wireless polling rate with a response delay of just 1ms, ensuring that every action is registered instantly. The wireless mode supports this high polling rate, which is a game-changer for competitive gaming, minimizing lag and maintaining seamless gameplay. It’s also equipped with a powerful 800mAh battery, allowing for extended playtime without constant recharging. The long battery life keeps gamers engaged in the game without interruption, so they can focus on the thrill of gaming rather than battery concerns.
Key Specs:
Design: Naruto Co-Branded Edition with Adaptive Triggers
Polling Rate: 1000Hz with 1ms delay
Joystick: Force-Adjustable Lever Joystick with joystick-dedicated chip, 12-bit sampling, adjustable 40-100gf resistance
When it comes to flagship smartphones, the processor is a major factor that showcases performance, features, and much more. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 are two of the most powerful chipsets in the market right now. Both of these promise the best performance on Android devices, but which one should you choose for your next smartphone purchase? Let’s find out in this comparison.
1. Snapdragon 8 Elite or Dimensity 9400: Performance
Snapdragon 8 Elite
While the two processors have different core configurations, they are pretty comparable in terms of performance. In our first comparison between the two processors, we saw that the Snapdragon 8 Elite’s performance managedto rival the Apple A18 Pro. It was on par with the A18 Pro in single core test in GeekBench 6, while its multi core scores crossed over 10,000 points. A previous GeekBench sighting listed the device with 2884 (single) and 8840 (multi) points respectively. On AnTuTu, this chip managed to get a score of over 3 million. Regardless, it is one of the fastest processors for Android smartphones right now.
Meanwhile, the Dimensity 9400 was first seen getting a GeekBench score of 2818 points in the single core test, while its multi core scores reached 8847 points. Just like the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the MediaTek chip also crossed the 3 million mark on AnTuTu. So the Snapdragon 8 Elite performed better in GeekBench, while the Dimensity 9400 took the lead in AnTuTu (3,109,010 points vs 3,007,853 points respectively). Although in real world use, people would be hard pressed to notice a major difference. So let’s check out other avenues.
2. Thermals & Battery Performance
Qualcomm has claimed a 45% boost in CPU performance along with a 44% improvement in power efficiency. MediaTek also promises a 40% upgrade in both performance and battery efficiency as well. However, a recent real world test from C4ETech, which compared the Oppo Find X8 Pro (Dimensity 9400) and OnePlus 13 (Snapdragon 8 Elite), revealed that the Dimensity 9400 consumes less battery and runs cooler overall.
We have already seen reports of heating issues with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, so thermals could be one area where the Dimensity edges ahead. Battery efficiency could still be tweaked with optimizations and it is still early to tell how these chips perform over time. But this is a notable aspect to take into account.
3. Camera Support
Dimensity 9400
Both Qualcomm and MediaTek have updated their ISPs (Image Signal Processor) to support a single 320MP capture. The Snapdragon 8 Elite brings triple 48MP capture with Zero Shutter Lag, 8K@60fps, and 1080p slo-mo capture at 480fps. On the other hand, MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 offers full range HDR zoom without losing the subject focus thanks to the new Imagiq 1090 ISP. It also has AI super zoom with 100x magnification and maximum video recording resolution of 8K. This includes 30fps and 60fps.
4. Which one should you choose?
Both the Snapdragon 8 Elite and Dimensity 9400 are top-tier chipsets, so the differences at this price point wouldn’t be the performance. Other factors come into play like camera specs of the smartphone you’re buying, its pricing, and more. As of right now, the Snapdragon 8 Elite on the Realme GT 7 Pro is the cheapest flagship phone in the market. However, it there have been reports of the device heating up during use. So it’s best to wait a bit more for more launches, so we have better options to choose from. During this time, brands would likely offer optimizations for their new premium phones, making them even better.
Samsung Galaxy users may soon get to experience the highly anticipated One UI 7 update, with the beta program expected to roll out later this month. Trusted tipster ICE Universe has shared that One UI 7 Beta will be available after November 17, starting in South Korea and the United States.
Users in India may receive the beta in December, according to tipster Tarun Vats, while 91mobiles reports that other regions—including China, the UK, Germany, and Poland—are expected to join around the same timeframe.
Expected visual and functional changes in One UI 7
Samsung’s One UI 7 will bring several design enhancements and usability improvements. According to rumors, one of the most noticeable changes will be the refreshed icons for stock apps such as Gallery and Camera. This visual update is expected to extend across the interface, with more rounded UI elements in areas like the Control Center widgets, notification banners, battery indicators, and various other toggles.
Notably, Samsung may also reconfigure the layout of Control Center widgets, affecting the placement of frequently used controls such as media, dark mode, and volume sliders. Additionally, a significant change includes separating the notification tray from the Control Center, although this configuration will still be accessible through the GoodLock app.
Other updates could streamline the user experience. For example, the quick shortcuts tray will initially appear minimized but can be expanded with a tap to reveal more options. Additionally, users may gain more intuitive access to certain functions, like direct toggles for zoom levels in the camera app, offering a smoother photography experience.
Performance and efficiency improvements
Beyond design changes, One UI 7 may include performance and efficiency optimizations. This new version aims to improve overall speed, battery life, and resource management, potentially making daily use smoother and more efficient for Galaxy device users.
Underneath the new One UI 7 skin, users will also find the latest Android 15 operating system, which will further enhance the device’s capabilities with Android’s latest features.
While Galaxy users will get a taste of One UI 7 through the beta program this year, the stable version of One UI 7 is expected to debut early next year with the Galaxy S25 series.
Following a China launch last month, Oppo has officially confirmed the global and Indian debut of the Find X8 series alongside its new ColorOS 15 user interface. The unveiling will take place on November 21st at 10:30 AM IST in Bali, Indonesia.
The Find X8 series will be the first smartphone lineup in India powered by MediaTek’s latest Dimensity 9400 chipset, barring any surprise announcements from competitor Vivo regarding their X200 series.
Oppo Find X8 series specifications
The Find X8 boasts a thin profile at 7.85mm and a lightweight build of just 193 grams. Meanwhile, the Find X8 Pro offers a larger display at 6.78 inches compared to the Find X8‘s 6.59-inch panel. Both displays feature ultra-narrow, symmetrical bezels measuring 1.45mm.
Each model in the Find X8 series includes a 50MP sensor for every lens. The standard Find X8 has three lenses (main, ultrawide, and telephoto), while the Pro model adds a second telephoto lens, totaling four.
Battery sizes also vary between the models. The Find X8 holds a 5,630mAh silicon-carbon battery, while the Find X8 Pro features a larger 5,910mAh cell, supporting longer usage between charges.
Color options include Star Grey and Space Black for the Find X8, while the Find X8 Pro comes in Space Black and a unique Pearl White with a shimmering finish. Additionally, the Find X8 Pro has a new Quick Button feature for faster access to camera functions like instant photo capture and zoom.
Pricing details still under wraps
Chinese pricing for the Find X8 series is already set, starting at CNY 4,199 for the Find X8 and CNY 5,299 for the Find X8 Pro. However, global and Indian launch prices remain under wraps. Oppo will reveal all the details during the November 21st launch event.
Oppo has already developed its own secondary display and charging chips, aiming to improve the display quality, and user experience of its flagship devices.
According to well-known tech tipster Digital Chat Station, Oppo is currently working on a networking chip, which reportedly improves the daily network experience. This is a crucial component for users who rely on cellular connectivity.
According to the tipster, this new chip will be ready soon. Unfortunately, he didn’t share which specific model will debut this new networking chip.
According to previous reports, the OnePlus Ace 5 series mobile phones are expected to be released next month, and the new series will be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen3 and 8 Elite processors. It remains to be seen if this series will incorporate the new networking chip.
Oppo’s self-developed secondary chips
For those unfamiliar, the SUPERVOOC S chip was first featured in the OnePlus 11R, marking it as the world’s first mobile phone equipped with this technology. The SUPERVOOC S chip enhances charging performance by managing both charge and discharge processes more efficiently, allowing devices to charge faster while optimizing battery life.
The chip achieves a discharge efficiency of up to 99.5%, significantly improving battery longevity and performance. Additionally, it includes features like temperature control modes and intelligent charging optimizations, ensuring safe and efficient charging under various conditions, including extreme temperatures
The SUPERVOOC S chip improves the performance of the Battery Health Engine (BHE) and enhance battery longevity and performance over time. This innovation aims to ensure that future Oppo devices offer long-lasting battery health, alongside faster and more efficient charging.
Another key addition, the Display P2 chip builds on the success of the first-generation Display P1 chip found in the OnePlus 12. The P1 chip introduced high-precision pixel-level calibration technology, which improved image quality and brightness by up to 90% while reducing power consumption by 13%. The Display P2 chip is part of OnePlus 13‘s advanced display technology, which includes the second-generation BOE X2 screen.
Vivo is gearing up to launch a new mid range smartphone soon. A fresh leak has revealed that a Vivo Y300 model is set to launch soon, but ahead of the official launch, the device had its launch timeline, color options, and certain specs leaked. So here’s everything we know so far.
Vivo Y300 Launching Soon in 3 Colors
As the name suggests, this is the base model of the Vivo Y300 series. Back in October 2024, the Vivo Y300+ was announced in India with a tall curved AMOLED screen for just 23,999 INR (roughly 284 US Dollars). According to a MySmartPrice report, the Vivo Y300 will be announced by the end of November 2024. Although, the official launch date of the Y300 is still unclear.
Vivo Y300 Plus
The report adds that this upcoming device will launch with a titanium inspired design and will be available in three color options. This includes Phantom Purple, Titanium Silver, and Emerald Green variants. That’s not all, the rear will also feature a Sony IMX882 primary sensor along with an AI Aura Light. The battery capacity is still unknown but the Vivo Y300 will support 80W wired fast charging. To recall, the Vivo Y300+ was announced with a tall curved AMOLED screen. So the base Vivo Y300 may offer a flat AMOLED panel with a more affordable pricing.
The Plus variant is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC, which is paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. It has a 50MP + 2MP camera setup on the rear, while the front houses a 32MP selfie shooter. A 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device, which supports 44W wired fast charging. Considering it has a faster charging rate, the battery capacity might take a hit, or we could get a more outdated processor. This is still just speculation at the moment, so take this report with a pinch of salt for now.
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