Advertisement

How the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition is different from regular Z Fold 6: Here are 8 major differences  

Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, released in South Korea, introduces a unique twist to their premium foldable lineup, differing from the Galaxy Z Fold 6 in several key areas. From design refinements to enhanced hardware, this limited-release model caters to users seeking a more exclusive, robust experience. Here’s a closer look at the distinct features that set the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition apart from its regular counterpart.

ALSO READ: The 5 best foldable phones to buy in 2024

ALSO READ: Top 5 foldable phones to watch in 2025

1. Slimmer, lighter, and more refined

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition

Samsung has designed the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition as its slimmest foldable yet. It is engineered to be slimmer, thinner, and lighter, presenting a sleeker look and a more comfortable feel. The unfolded dimensions are slightly larger—157.9 x 142.6 x 4.9 mm—than the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which measures 153.5 x 132.6 x 5.6 mm when opened. When folded, the Special Edition measures 157.9 x 72.8 x 10.6 mm compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s 153.5 x 68.1 x 12.1 mm, making it both narrower and easier to hold.

Weight-wise, the Special Edition tips the scales at 236 grams, just a hair lighter than the 239-gram Z Fold 6. However, the design choices go beyond dimensions; the Special Edition’s single color—Black Shadow—underscores its minimalist, high-end aesthetic, contrasting with the color variety available for the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which comes in navy, silver, pink, black, and white.

2. Enhanced display experience with wider aspect ratios

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition

Samsung has made subtle adjustments to the display specifications of the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, aiming to improve the viewing experience. Both the internal foldable and cover screens maintain the same specifications as the Galaxy Z Fold 6 in terms of size, resolution, and display quality. The Special Edition’s foldable screen offers a 7.6-inch Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and 2600 nits of peak brightness, similar to the regular Z Fold 6.

However, a difference lies in the aspect ratio, providing a wider field of view. The Special Edition’s foldable screen adopts a 20:18 aspect ratio instead of the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s 4:3. This results in a broader, more immersive display when unfolded. The cover screen’s ratio is also more expansive at 21:9, compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s 22.1:9. For users accustomed to standard slab-style smartphones, this wider cover display on the Special Edition offers a familiar experience, making it easier to manage tasks without needing to unfold the device.

3. Boosted storage and performance

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Whereas the Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes in multiple configurations, the Special Edition provides a singular high-powered option with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. This ample memory and storage combo gives it an edge in multitasking and performance, aimed at users looking for a device capable of handling extensive tasks and intensive applications without compromise.

4. Upgraded primary camera

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition

Samsung has enhanced the photography experience on the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition with a significant camera upgrade. The primary sensor now boasts an impressive 200-megapixel resolution, far surpassing the 50-megapixel main sensor on the Galaxy Z Fold 6.

The rest of the camera setup remains similar across both models, with a 10-megapixel telephoto and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, along with under-display and cover selfie cameras. Both devices have a 10-megapixel selfie camera and a 4-megapixel under-display camera on the internal screen.

5. Other hardware specs

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition lacks support for the S Pen

The Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition and Galaxy Z Fold 6 share key specifications, including the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy and a 4,400mAh battery. Both models operate on One UI 6.1.1 with Android 15.

The Special Edition has an edge in connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 support, while the Z Fold 6 supports Wi-Fi 6E. Another major difference between both models is that the Special Edition lacks support for the S Pen stylus.

6. Comes with charger and leather case

1. Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition | 2. Leather Case | 3. 25 W PD Charger | 4. USB Connector (USB Type-C) | 5. Separator Pin
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition box content

Unlike Samsung’s recent trend of excluding chargers and cases from retail packages, the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition comes with a complete accessory set, including the handset, a leather case, a 25W PD charger, a USB-C to USB-C cable, and a SIM ejector pin.

7. Limited availability and pricing considerations

Samsung W25

The Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition is currently exclusive to South Korea but is expected to launch in China as well. It’s possible that the recently released Galaxy W25 foldable in China is a rebranded version of the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition. In contrast, the standard Galaxy Z Fold 6 is widely available worldwide.

In terms of pricing, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 with 12GB RAM and 512GB storage is priced at $2,019 in the U.S. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, available only in a 16GB + 512GB configuration, costs KRW 2,789,600 (~$2,015).

8. Flaunts a new name, hinting at future high-end foldable

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition

It’s worth noting that Samsung has branded this device simply as the “Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition,” refraining from attaching a generation number. This distinct naming could hint at Samsung’s intentions to present the Special Edition as a standalone device rather than just an iteration of the Galaxy Z Fold 6, possibly paving the way for future high-end, exclusive releases in the foldable series.

iPhone SE 4 specs leaks along with price and launch date

Apple is expected to launch its budget iPhone SE 4 in Q1, 2025 and rumors about the device are already circulating widely. A recent report showed the phone’s design through a leaked case image, and now tipster Jukanlosreve has revealed key specifications and an expected price range for the iPhone SE 4.

Apple iPhone SE 4 Expected Specifications

The biggest internal change could be Apple’s own 5G modem, codenamed “Centauri.” This in-house solution could improve efficiency and reduce Apple’s reliance on external suppliers for modems. 

On the display front, the SE 4 might ditch the LCD for a 6.06-inch LTPS OLED panel with a resolution of 2,532 x 1,170 and a peak brightness of 800 nits. Durability could also see a boost with the inclusion of Ceramic Shield, the same material used on the iPhone 14 series.  

For performance, Apple is likely to use the same A18 chip as in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus. It may be paired with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM and might even have support for Apple Intelligence features. 

Camera capabilities will remain modest, as the leak suggests the phone will have a single 48MP Sony Exmor IMX904 sensor at the back and a 12MP front-facing shooter. 

Dimensionally, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to measure 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8mm and house a 3,279mAh battery. While smaller than some competitors, it’s a notable increment over iPhone SE 3‘s meager 2,018mAh capacity – a jump of over 62%.  

Modern features like Face ID, IP68 dust and water resistance, and support for wired (up to 20W), Qi2, and MagSafe wireless charging (up to 15W) are also expected. 

Last but not least, the leak suggests that the iPhone SE 4 could be priced between $499 and $549, though this is yet to be confirmed. The unveiling is said to be in March 2025, we’ll have all the official details then.

(Source)

Redmi Band 3 Sales Kicks Off on October 29 in China

Xiaomi is gearing up to launch the Xiaomi 15 series in its home market of China on 29th October 2024. But it appears that its budget subbrand is also planning on releasing a wearable device on the same date. The company will kick off the sales of the Redmi Band 3 tomorrow.

Redmi Band 3

The Chinese tech giant has officially announced that the Redmi Band 3 will go on sale in China on October 29 at 10 AM (Local Time in China). As the name suggests, the wearable is a new smart band from Xiaomi’s budget subsidiary. It is also the direct successor to the Redmi Band 2. The Redmi Band 3 is set to launch for enhanced user interaction. The smart wearable features a rectangular color display with a 60Hz refresh rate.

Redmi Band 3
Redmi Band 3

Its screen is surrounded by silicone straps and can be seen in multiple color options. This includes a white, pink, yellow, black, and dark gray. The upcoming smart band has also been confirmed to offer an ultra long battery life of up to 18 days. Redmi has also confirmed that it will arrive with all day health monitoring systems. So we can expect the Redmi Band 3 to launch with support for heart rate monitoring, sleep analysis, and much more.

To recall, the Xiaomi 15 series is set to be announced along with the Android 15 OS based HyperOS 2.0 custom skin, Xiaomi Pad 7 series tablets, SUV Ultra EV, and the Xiaomi Watch S4. Apart from these, the brand is also gearing up to introduce the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro. All of these devices are expected to offer improved features and a more modern design compared to their predecessors. So stick around for more as we will be covering the launch event tomorrow.

OnePlus 13 Set for Global Debut Soon? Spotted in New Certification

OnePlus is all set to launch its new flagship smartphone later this week. The OnePlus 13 is a highly anticipated launch with the new high end device featuring Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC. But ahead of its Chinese announcement, a new certification has surfaced online, hinting at its imminent global launch.

OnePlus 13 visits SIRIM certification

oneplus 13

The Chinese brand’s new premium phone is set to launch in China on 31st October 2024. Although the smartphone was recently spotted on Malaysia’s SIRIM database (Via MySmartPrice). The device can be seen carrying the CPH2653 model number. Unfortunately, the certification does not reveal any finer details, such as specifications or features of the OnePlus 13. So it is unclear whether the global variant will have any differences compared to the Chinese version. However, it does suggest that the global release might be imminent.

Earlier today (28th October 2024), the OnePlus 13 was officially teased confirming its battery and charging speeds. A massive 6,000mAh battery pack will power the premium phone, which supports 100W wired fast charging and 50W wireless fast charging. It also houses 4 microphones to enable AI noise reduction, dual stereo speakers, WiFi and cellular switching. To showcase its camera prowess, sample shots were shared to show off the Motion Capture and Portrait quality last week.

OnePlus 13 SIRIM

Based on what we know so far, the OnePlus 13 arrives in three color options, namely Blue Moment, White Dew, and Obsidian Black. It sports a tall 2K Oriental 8T LTPO AMOLED display that offers a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. This panel also supports Glove Touch and Rain Touch 2.0 technology as well. Under the hood, the smartphone is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, which is paired with up to 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage.

Honor Magic 7 Pro close-up image reveals detailed design elements ahead of launch

Honor is preparing to launch its flagship Magic 7 series on October 30th, and ahead of the event, closeup images shared by Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station (DCS) have revealed key design elements.

The images confirm a triple-camera setup on the rear, including a periscope telephoto lens, and a front display with micro-quad-curved glass and symmetrical bezels. Additionally, the device sports a pill-shaped cutout housing dual front cameras, likely supporting 3D face unlock. The company has already confirmed the integration of AI into its camera system for improved imaging capabilities.

More details on the Magic 7 series

The leaked images and renders show that both the standard Honor Magic 7 and Magic 7 Pro feature an octagonal rear camera module with a silver or gray border, while one render hints at a gold frame. The setup includes three camera sensors and an LED flash, with the Honor logo discreetly placed at the bottom of the rear panel.

Leaks suggest storage options of 512GB and 1TB for the Magic 7, available in Gold, White, Black, Blue, and Gray. The Pro variant might offer 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations, with a more muted color palette. Rumors also point to a 1.5K OLED display for the standard model and a 2K OLED screen for the Pro, accompanied by robust battery specs, including a 5800mAh battery with 100W wired and 66W wireless charging on the Pro model.

The entire series is expected to include an ultrasonic fingerprint reader, IP68/IP69 water and dust resistance, and even satellite connectivity on the Pro model. The company has already unveiled its Android 15-based MagicOS 9.0 custom skin that will ship with the Magic 7 series.

Under the hood, the Magic 7 series will be driven by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, known for its improved performance and power efficiency. With an all-big-cores design, the chip delivers a 45% increase in CPU power, a more capable NPU, and a 44% boost in efficiency compared to its predecessor, ensuring smoother multitasking and better AI integration. This chipset aims to compete directly with rival processors like the Dimensity 9400, enhancing the overall performance of the Magic 7 series.

In summary, the Magic 7 series promises a mix of cutting-edge technology, advanced AI features, and premium design.

(Source)

Honor Magic 7 “AI Eagle Eye” camera: integrates AI for superior imaging

Honor is gearing up to introduce its new flagship Magic 7 series on October 30th. The company has already revealed two striking color options—”Moon Shadow Gray” and “Morning Glow Gold”. Now the company teases its AI-driven enhancements, including an upgraded “AI Eagle Eye” imaging system. The device promises better image processing for portraits, capturing crisp shots of moving subjects.

Honor integrates AI into Magic 7’s camera system

The Honor Magic 7 series will come equipped with an AI-powered camera system. The series features a periscope lens (possibly the 50MP OV50H) on the Pro model, offering improved optical zoom capabilities. The AI integration reportedly helps enhance focus and image stabilization, ensuring sharp and high-quality shots.

It also includes features for portrait enhancements, making “moving and still, near and far” shots turn into crisp, vivid images, according to the company’s claims. This is part of the broader suite of AI functions in the Magic 7 series, ranging from smart search to real-time translation.

The company previously confirmed that the Magic 7 series will integrate its previously announced AI Defocus Eye Protection technology. Unveiled in June, this feature utilizes the display to simulate defocus glasses, creating a controlled blur in the user’s peripheral vision for improved central focus.

Rumored specifications and features

According to a rumor, the Magic 7 and Magic 7 Pro are expected to include batteries with capacities of 5650mAh and 5850mAh, respectively, both supporting 100W fast charging. Additional rumored features include ultrasonic fingerprint sensors, “YOYO assistant” for automatic operations, and Game Space for an enhanced gaming experience with real-time game management features.

Powering the Magic 7 series is the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, known for its efficiency and performance improvements compared to its predecessor. The chip is built on a 3nm process, offering a 45% boost in CPU performance, and a 44% improvement in power efficiency compared to its predecessor. This ensures smoother multitasking, better gaming experiences, and overall enhanced user interaction with AI functionalities.

(Source 1, 2)

iQOO 13 packs a huge 6,150mAh battery in 7.99mm slim body, fast charging details confirmed

The iQOO 13 is all set to debut on Oct. 30 in China. Ahead of the launch, the iQOO flagship is generating significant buzz with its impressive combination of a slim profile, large battery, and blazing-fast charging capabilities.

iQOO 13 battery, charging capabilities

iQOO 13 battery, charging
iQOO 13 battery and charging details

Despite measuring a mere 7.99mm thick, the iQOO 13 houses a substantial 6150mAh battery. This feat is achieved using advanced third-generation silicon anode materials, increasing battery capacity by 23 percent compared to its predecessor. The phone also utilizes cutting-edge semi-solid low-temperature battery technology, ensuring exceptional battery life even in extremely cold environments.  

To optimize power consumption for demanding tasks like high-definition video playback and navigation, the iQOO 13 employs an innovative high-efficiency cache architecture. This architecture revolutionizes the internal operation of the SoC (System on a Chip), resulting in significant power optimization and extending battery life.

IQOO has already confirmed that the iQOO 13 features a stunning 6.82-inch 2K flat display with a resolution of 3168 x 1440 pixels. It is the first to feature the BOE Q10 luminescent device, which incorporates an 8T LTPO circuit design. Developed in collaboration with BOE, this display supports a 2592Hz refresh rate at full brightness and offers a DC-like dimming solution for enhanced eye comfort.

Furthermore, the iQOO 13 pioneers the use of circularly polarized light eye protection technology. This technology employs multiple layers of specialized film to transform the screen’s light output into a circularly polarized state, similar to natural light. This hardware-level approach provides true eye protection by mimicking the properties of natural light, effectively creating a “natural light screen.”  

Under the hood, the iQOO 13 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and offers up to 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. It also features an in-house Q2 gaming chip for enhanced gaming performance. It is said to feature a 32-megapixel front camera and a triple 50-megapixel camera setup on the back. It will come preloaded with OriginOS 5-based Android 15. Reports suggest that the iQOO 13 will be released globally in the first week of December.

Snapdragon 8 Elite delivers improved emulation performance for PC games with native Linux support

Following the official unveiling of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite, several Chinese smartphone manufacturers are gearing up to launch flagship devices powered by the new SoC. These phones will hit the Chinese market this October, with global availability expected by the end of the year or early 2025.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite launched specs

Qualcomm touts significant performance improvements for the 8 Elite, and early benchmarks seem to confirm this. A recent 3DMark Steel Nomad Light benchmark suggests the Adreno 830 GPU surpasses the Radeon 780M, the integrated graphics card found in popular gaming handhelds like the ROG Ally X and Legion Go.

Snapdragon 8 Elite confirmed to have Linux support

Adding another layer of intrigue is the confirmation by Qualcomm’s Director of Engineering that the Snapdragon 8 Elite boasts native Linux support. 

The support will be available for the SoC from day one, certainly exciting news for the mobile game emulation scene. The current Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 already shows promise for emulating PC titles with tools like Winlator and Mobox.

In a recent demo by ETA Prime, games like Fallout 4, Bioshock Remastered, and Far Cry run at playable frame rates on the Galaxy S24 Ultra with the 8 Gen 3. With proper Linux support, the Snapdragon 8 Elite could push mobile emulation even further.

It’s essential to keep in mind that emulation often results in some performance loss compared to native experiences. However, the raw power of the Snapdragon 8 Elite, combined with native Linux support, creates opportunities for a significant advancement in mobile emulation capabilities. 

With the hardware in place, the key remaining hurdle is to convince developers to port their PC games to the Android platform. This process may take time, so for now, emulation is the best alternative for Android users to experience PC games on their Snapdragon 8 Elite phone.

(Via)

Oppo Find N5 / OnePlus Open 2 leak reveals bigger screen, triple 50MP cameras, 5,700mAh battery, and more

Oppo has just launched the Find X8 and Find X8 Pro smartphones in China. In Q1 2025, the brand is expected to unveil the Find X8 Ultra with the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the home market. Apart from the X8 Ultra, the brand is also expected to announce the Oppo Find N5 foldable phone in the same quarter. The following Weibo post released by tipster Digital Chat Station spills new details about the N5.

Oppo Find N5’s new details emerge

According to the tipster, the general design of the Oppo Find N5’s engineering prototype is similar to the previous generation, the Find N3. Therefore, it continues to sport a large circular camera module on the back. The tipster revealed that the Find N5’s screen size has been increased, but he did not reveal the exact size. A previous leak by the same source revealed that the device’s internal screen will support a 2K+ resolution.

Under the hood, the Oppo Find N5 will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, and reports suggest it could debut as the world’s first foldable phone powered by this chipset. While its predecessor housed a 4,805mAh battery, the N5 is expected to deliver a notable upgrade with a dual-cell battery configuration (2,460mAh + 3,105mAh) that offers a rated capacity of 5,565mAh. The typical battery capacity could be around 5,700mAh.

There is currently no confirmed information on the device’s wired charging capabilities, though it is rumored to support wireless charging. Oppo has even teased that the N5 will include magnetic wireless charging.

For photography, the N5 will sport a Hasselblad-optimized triple camera system featuring a 50-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. A key highlight of the Find N5 is its slimness, measuring around 9.x mm in the folded state, as per a previous leak by DCS. To maintain this sleek profile, the company will incorporate a custom-made slim USB-C port.

Speculation suggests that the Find N5 might be rebranded as the OnePlus Open 2 in select markets such as India, Europe, and the US, though no concrete details are available regarding its launch timeline.

iQOO Neo 10 series launch timeframe tipped by reliable source

While iQOO is currently gearing up to launch its flagship iQOO 13 in China, rumors of the upcoming sub-flagship iQOO Neo 10 series are also growing louder. 

The two phones in the line, iQOO Neo 10 and Neo 10 Pro, are rumored to be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipsets, respectively. Both models may also come with larger batteries, likely over 6000mAh.

Now, a reliable source has hinted at a possible launch timeframe for the new phones. 

iQOO Neo 10 series launch timeframe

Prominent leakster Digital Chat Station, known for reliable information on upcoming devices, recently hinted at the launch timeframe on China’s Weibo platform. Responding to a user’s query, the tipster stated that the iQOO Neo 10 series launch is currently scheduled for November.

This aligns with past launch patterns for the iQOO Neo lineup, which typically arrives in the latter part of the year. For instance, last year’s Neo 9 series debuted in December.

What to expect

The Neo 10 series is expected to feature a 1.5K display on the front. It natural to expect an AMOLED panel since the Neo 9 phones already has it. 

Likewise, both devices may feature a metal middle frame, run Android 15 with OriginOS 5 on top, and support 100W charging. 

The Neo 10 series will compete with the upcoming OnePlus Ace 5, Realme GT Neo 7, and Redmi K80 lineups. Reports suggest that China will unveil the K80 series in November, while the Ace 5 and Realme GT Neo 7 may launch in the same month or in December.

Beyond these details, not much else is known about the phones at this time. We will keep you updated as new information becomes available.

(Source)

Xiaomi Teases Upgraded Watch S4 and Smart Band 9 Pro Ahead of October 29 Launch

Xiaomi is gearing up to introduce a slew of new products, including smartphones, tablets, and wearables. The highly anticipated Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Pro flagship devices, along with the Pad 7 series are said to debut on October 29.

In terms of wearables, Xiaomi will soon introduce the Watch S4 and Smart Band 9 Pro. These devices are expected to offer improved features and a more modern design compared to their predecessors. The company has teased these devices with promotional images, hinting at potential upgrades such as brighter displays and a new intercom mode. The Watch S4 will be the second addition to the S4 line, with the brand launching the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport back in July. The teaser image has also revealed that like its predecessor, the Watch S4 will have an interchangeable bezel design.

Last month, renders of the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro were leaked, but the design of this wearable has now been officially unveiled. It is anticipated to include a 1.74-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 336 x 480, a 60Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 600 nits. The Smart Band 9 Pro is also expected to provide a range of health and fitness tracking features, including heart rate monitoring and blood oxygen tracking.

Unfortunately, there are no details about the specifications of the Watch S4; however, we expect it to share some similarities with the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport. The Watch S4 Sport has a 1.43-inch OLED display that boasts a peak brightness of 2,200 nits for excellent outdoor visibility, and the watch is powered by a 586mAh battery, promising a battery life of 15 days.

It includes a heart rate and blood oxygen sensor on the back, protected by sapphire glass, and claims an accuracy of 97.2%. With EN13319 diving certification, the watch can be used for diving up to 40 meters (130 feet) and offers offline map capabilities via eSIM, allowing users to leave their phones behind. Additionally, NFC support enables it to function as a car key.

(Source 1, 2)

OnePlus 13 pack 6,000mAh battery with 100W wired, 50W wireless charging, many other details confirmed

The OnePlus 13 is slated to go official on Oct. 31 in China. Ahead of the launch, the brand has been gradually revealing the key details about the smartphone. Recent Weibo posts released by the brand have confirmed the battery size, charging capabilities, and many other details about the OP13.

OnePlus 13 battery, charging capabilities

The above posters confirm that the OnePlus 13 will house a 6,000mAh battery. This means that the OP13 will have the largest battery seen on a OnePlus phone. The second poster confirms that it will support both 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. With 100W SuperVOOC charging, the phone can go from 0 to 100 percent in just 36 minutes.

In addition, the OnePlus 13 supports the 100W UFCS (Universal Fast Charging Standard) protocol, allowing fast charging with third-party adapters. With the SUPERVOOC S chip integration, the phone achieves an impressive 99.5% discharge efficiency, optimizing battery output for extended and efficient usage.

The other posters released by the brand confirm that the OnePlus 13 will continue to feature an alert slider on its left spine. Additionally, the phone will come with features like an IR blaster, a multi-functional NFC, and a USB 3.2 Gen USB-C port for faster data transfer. 

Apart from these, OnePlus has already confirmed that the OnePlus 13 will feature dual stereo speakers, four microphones for AI noise reduction, and run on ColorOS 15-based Android 15. Its rear camera setup will have a 50-megapixel LYT-808 main camera with OIS, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel LYT-600 periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. Finally, the OP13 is also confirmed to feature a 6.82-inch 2K 120Hz OLED screen and the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.

Xiaomi CEO: Xiaomi 15 series to feature 12GB RAM base model, 16 new products launching tomorrow

Xiaomi is preparing for a major launch event on October 29, during which it will unveil 16 new products as part of its growing “human-car-home” ecosystem. The event will last over three hours and will see the official release of the Xiaomi 15 series along with HyperOS 2, the company’s next-generation operating system.

Now, in a pre-launch address, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun has shed light on some key details surrounding the upcoming event.

1. Several new products are incoming

Lei confirmed that alongside the Xiaomi 15 series and HyperOS 2, Xiaomi will debut the Pad 7 series, Watch S4, and Band 9 Pro. Expanding its hardware lineup further, Xiaomi will reveal a high-end electric scooter series, smart door locks, Wi-Fi 7 routers, and more. In total, there will be 16 new products. 

2. Xiaomi 15 series RAM/ Price increase

Xiaomi-15-Pro-official-render-3-1

Lei confirmed that the Xiaomi 15 series base model will start with 12GB RAM, up from the previous 8GB. This is to improve the on-device AI performance. 

He also confirmed major improvements in design, power efficiency, and user experience. And with these changes, the Xiaomi 15 series will have a slightly higher price than its predecessor.

Addressing the price increase, Lei Jun says the Xiaomi 15 series still offers exceptional value. He noted that the upgraded 3nm process technology and rising RAM and ROM costs in the supply chain majorly contribute to the price increase.

3. A new display for new phones

Xiaomi also shared details about its display technology: the entire Xiaomi 15 series will feature a customized M9 luminous material with a dual micro-cavity structure. 

This new panel is claimed to improve luminous efficiency while reducing power consumption. According to Lei Jun, the Xiaomi 15 series uniquely achieves “2K screen to 1.5K screen power consumption,” with further details to be shared during the press conference.

4. Xiaomi SU7 delivery goals

Lei Jun also shared an update on the delivery timeline for the Xiaomi SU7, reaffirming the goal of shipping 20,000 units within a month. The CEO says the team remains committed to this target and will offer a status update on the first day of each month.

(Source)

MSI’s MAG 255PXF Monitor with 300Hz Refresh Rate unveiled

MSI has unveiled its latest gaming monitor, the MAG 255PXF, a Full HD display specifically tailored for competitive gamers.

MSI MAG 255PXF

Performance-Focused Display

The MAG 255PXF features a 1920×1080 resolution, which provides a good balance between image quality and performance. It supports a native 180Hz refresh rate, which can be overclocked to 300Hz, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay. The monitor’s rapid 0.5ms (GtG) response time further minimizes motion blur and ghosting, resulting in clear and crisp visuals.

MSI MAG 255PXF

MSI has included Adaptive Sync technology, which synchronizes the monitor’s refresh rate with the GPU to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering. The monitor’s ergonomic stand enables height, tilt, and swivel adjustments, allowing users to find the optimal viewing position.

To reduce eye strain during extended gaming sessions, MSI has incorporated Anti-Flicker technology and a Low Blue Light mode. The MAG 255PXF features a sleek, frameless design that complements multi-monitor setups. MSI has also paid attention to build quality, ensuring durability and longevity. MSI has yet to announce the price and release date for the monitor, so we’ll have to wait for further details.

In other news, the AOC Q27G4XM is a 27-inch gaming monitor with a 2K QLED display, 180Hz refresh rate, 1 ms response time, and G-Sync compatibility. It boasts excellent color accuracy, HDR 1000, and an ergonomic design with height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments. This monitor is ideal for gamers and creators seeking a high-performance and comfortable viewing experience.

(Source, via)

G-SHOCK’s Limited-Edition Katana-Inspired MR-G Watch launched with Only 800 Pieces Worldwide

G-SHOCK has introduced a new limited-edition MR-G model inspired by Japanese sword-making traditions. Set for release in November 2024, this new G-SHOCK MRG-B2000JS-1A timepiece combines traditional craftsmanship with advanced technology, appealing to collectors with only 800 pieces available worldwide.

Casio G-SHOCK MRG-B2000JS-1A

Craftsmanship Honoring Japanese Swordsmiths

The design of this MR-G watch draws from the Juryoku-Maru: San, a katana crafted specifically for G-SHOCK by master swordsmith Kamiyama Teruhira. The bezel, made of recrystallized titanium, reflects the edge pattern found on hand-forged blades. A blue-grey AIP coating on the case gives a similar polished look to that of the katana’s blade.

Adding a touch of tradition, the watch band features aogai-nuri, a lacquer technique with mother-of-pearl inlay, mimicking the intricate design of the sword’s scabbard. This element produces a subtle shimmering effect that changes with the light. Each watch is individually numbered and features a hand-engraved inscription on the back by Kamiyama Teruhira, adding a unique touch to every piece.

Combining Tradition with Functionality

While rich in traditional design, the MR-G model includes modern features. The dial displays a hishimaki-gara pattern, a traditional diamond shape found on sword hilts, and the watch indexes subtly reflect a blade’s curve.

For functionality, the watch includes Bluetooth connectivity, solar power, and radio-controlled timekeeping. With a sapphire crystal face and titanium alloy case and band, the watch is both scratch-resistant and impact-proof, staying true to G-SHOCK’s durability standards.

An Exclusive Collector’s Piece

This MR-G model is limited to 800 units, designed for collectors, and carries a hefty price tag of around $8,000 USD (1.1 million yen).

(Source)

Realme GT 7 Pro spotted on Geekbench with impressive scores, launching on November 4

Realme is gearing up to launch its next flagship smartphone, the GT 7 Pro, on November 4. The phone has already passed through multiple certifications and benchmarks. It made an appearance on AnTuTu earlier this month, showcasing impressive performance, and has now been spotted on Geekbench under the model number “RMX5010.”

Realme GT 7 Pro

According to Geekbench 6.3.0 results, the GT 7 Pro scored 3,153 in single-core and 9,554 in multi-core tests. It’s powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, built on a 3nm process, featuring a new Oryon CPU architecture with 6 cores clocked at 3.53 GHz and 2 high-performance cores at 4.32 GHz.

Realme GT 7 Pro Geekbench

The phone boasts an upgraded Adreno 830 GPU, delivering a 44% boost in peak performance, 25% better energy efficiency, and a 1,100 MHz frequency, along with 12MB of dedicated cache. Additionally, the Hexagon NPU is improved by 45% for faster AI performance.

The GT 7 Pro was also spotted recently on TENAA with the same model number. As per reports, the global variant carries the model number RMX5011.

In terms of display, the device features a 6.78-inch Samsung Eco² OLED Plus panel with a micro-quad-curved design. It offers a resolution of 2780 x 1264 pixels, supports a 1Hz-120Hz refresh rate with 8T LTPO technology, and achieves a peak brightness of 6,000 nits. It also includes Qualcomm’s ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor for enhanced security.

The Realme GT 7 Pro will be among the first devices in China to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, paired with 8GB to 24GB of RAM and 128GB to 1TB of storage. It will house a large 6,500mAh battery supporting 120W fast charging.

The camera setup includes a 16MP front camera and a triple rear camera system featuring two 50MP sensors and an 8MP sensor, along with a periscope telephoto lens enabling 3x optical zoom.

The phone will be the first from Realme to ship with Android 15 and Realme UI 6. It will also feature an IR blaster, a metal mid-frame, and an IP68/69 rating for water and dust resistance. It will launch in three color options in China: Mars Design (Orange), Star Trail Titanium, and Light Domain White. Realme GT 7 Pro will also launch globally next month including India.

Exclusive: Asus ROG Phone 9 FE spotted, coming soon

Asus has established a solid place for itself in the field of gaming phones with the ROG Phone series. The ROG Phone 9 FE, the budget-friendly version of the Asus ROG Phone 9 series, which is eagerly awaited by mobile game lovers, has been spotted in the GSMA database.

Asus ROG Phone 9 FE appeared with the model number “ASUS_AI2401_N”. We don’t know the specifications of the model yet. However, the ROG Phone 9 FE’s model number is similar to the Asus ROG Phone 8 series, which was introduced earlier this year. Therefore, Asus ROG Phone 9 FE is expected to be equipped with similar features to the ROG Phone 8 series. The device is expected to offer high-performance gaming experience at an affordable price.

Asus’ ROG Phone series has always stood out for its unique designs and gamer-friendly features. The ROG Phone 9 FE is sure to have a unique design as well. In particular, details such as RGB lighting and trigger buttons could be among the highlights of the device.

On the display side, a large screen with a high refresh rate is likely to be used. This will increase fluidity during gameplay, while the high touch sampling rate will allow for more precise control in games. This kind of display could offer an advantage to gamers, especially in competitive games.

In terms of hardware, judging from the model number, the Asus ROG Phone 9 FE is likely to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. While delivering top-end performance, the device is expected to be equipped with an effective cooling system for long gaming sessions. There is also a possibility that this cooling system can be further enhanced with external accessories.

A phone with such a powerful processor will need a large battery for long gaming sessions. For this reason, the ROG Phone 9 FE is expected to come with a high-capacity battery with fast charging support. This will allow gamers to enjoy an uninterrupted experience for long periods of time. Although ROG Phone 9 FE is a price-performance-oriented model, this device is a candidate to attract a lot of attention by offering high-end gaming performance at an affordable price.

Exclusive: Infinix Note 50 series leaked

Infinix continues to attract users with a wide range of smartphones for different budgets. The brand’s highly anticipated new Infinix Note 50 series has appeared in the GSMA database and is preparing to appear with four different models: Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G, Infinix Note 50 Pro, Infinix Note 50, and Infinix Note 50X.

Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G “X6856”, Infinix Note 50 Pro “X6855”, Infinix Note 50 “X6858” and Infinix Note 50X “X6857” model numbers appear in the GSMA database. Technical specifications of the series have not yet been clarified. However, the previous version of the Infinix Note 40 series offers some clues about the new models.

The Infinix Note 40 Pro offered users a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 1300 nits brightness. The processor of the device was MediaTek Dimensity 7020. It comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB internal storage.

In terms of camera, Note 40 Pro stands out with 108MP OIS-supported main camera and auxiliary cameras; the main camera stood out with a 3x lossless zoom feature. There was a 32MP selfie camera on the front. The device’s 5000mAh battery could quickly recharge with 45W fast charging and 20W wireless charging options. With IPX3 water resistance and IP5X dust resistance certificates, this device was also ambitious in terms of durability. It also comes out of the box with the Android 14-based XOS 14 interface and offers an up-to-date software experience to users.

Although the Infinix Note 40 has similar specifications to the Pro model, equipped with the MediaTek Helio G99 Ultimate processor. 8GB RAM and 256GB storage were also included in this model. Camera and battery specifications were largely the same as the Pro model.

The Infinix Note 40X, which is positioned at a lower level, comes with a 6.78-inch IPS LCD display, 120Hz refresh rate and MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor. It offers up to 12GB RAM support and 256GB storage. On the camera side, comes with a dual camera setup. The 108MP main camera is accompanied by a 2MP auxiliary camera. It provided a more modest energy management with a 5000mAh battery with 18W fast charging support.

In the light of this information, the Infinix Note 50 series is expected to hit the market with a similar design concept and features. However, in the Note 50 series, the Pro+ 5G model will be a strong player especially in the middle segment. The 4G version will be offered with a different processor, but there will be no major changes in other key features. The Note 50 will be simpler and more price-performance oriented than the Pro models, while the Infinix Note 50X is expected to reach the user with more basic features for the lower-mid segment.

With the launch of the Infinix Note 50 series, a great competition is expected to take place, especially in the middle segment. Although the launch date is not yet finalized, the series is expected to be introduced in 2025. With these new models, we expect Infinix to offer a series that attracts attention especially with price-performance balance.

Exclusive: ZTE prepares to launch the Nubia Neo 3 GT 5G, designed for gamers

ZTE continues to produce devices that appeal to gaming enthusiasts with the Nubia series. We previously announced that the Nubia Neo 3 model was included in the GSMA database. Now, the more powerful version of the same series, the Nubia Neo 3 GT 5G, has been spotted in the GSMA database.

Nubia Neo 3 GT 5G appears with the model number Z2465N. We can make some predictions about the new model by looking at the features of the predecessor Nubia Neo 2. Nubia Neo 2 offers a wide and smooth viewing experience with its 6.72-inch IPS LCD display. Smoothness in gaming and multimedia experience is prioritized with a 120Hz refresh rate. The device is powered by a Unisoc T820 processor and comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage capacity.

The Nubia Neo 2 features a dual rear camera setup with a 50MP main camera and a 2MP depth sensor. Also, the 16MP front camera offers decent performance for selfies. The device has 6000mAh or 5200mAh battery options in different regions. On the software side, the device comes out of the box with Android 13-based MyOS 13.

Nubia Neo 2 is more than just a smartphone, drawing attention with a special design for gamers and advanced gaming features. The device’s trigger keys and special game areas are among the elements that enrich the gaming experience.

Nubia Neo 3 GT 5G is expected to be equipped with more advanced technologies compared to the predecessor Neo 2. Especially the processor, camera and gaming features are expected to be improved. Although there is no clear information about the launch date, Nubia Neo 3 GT 5G is expected to be introduced in 2025. This model seems to be an important step in ZTE’s gamer-oriented series.

Samsung Galaxy A56 to Feature New 12MP Front Camera, Exynos 1580 Chipset, and Six Years of Updates

While the official launch of the Samsung Galaxy A56 is still months away, early details about its camera specifications have emerged.

Samsung Galaxy A55
Samsung Galaxy A55

Camera Upgrades

The Galaxy A56 is expected to feature a similar camera setup to its predecessors, with a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 5MP macro lens. However, Samsung is reportedly making a significant change to the front camera, upgrading from the aging 32MP sensor to a 12MP sensor. This move will likely improve selfie quality, especially in low-light conditions.

In terms of performance, Samsung has started testing a processor identified by model number S5E8855, codenamed “Santa,” which is expected to power the Galaxy A56. This chip is likely to debut as the Exynos 1580, a successor to the Exynos 1480 in the Galaxy A55. The 1480 brought notable performance enhancements over its predecessor, the Exynos 1380, so there’s interest in seeing how the Exynos 1580 compares. The Galaxy A56 was recently spotted on the Geekbench database with a score of 1341 in single-core and 3836 in multi-core tests. This score is on par with the Snapdragon 888, the flagship Qualcomm SoC powering 2021 smartphones.

Samsung is also extending its update policy for the Galaxy A56, which is similar to the Galaxy A16. This will provide the device with six years of updates, including six major Android upgrades, positioning the Galaxy A56 as a longer-lasting choice for users who want software longevity in a mid-range device.

Pricing details are still unknown, but the Galaxy A56 is expected to fall in the €450–€500 range, aligning with previous models in the A5x series.

(via)