Just when you thought your smartphone’s rear-facing camera had reached its peak with 200-megapixel monster sensors, the industry has decided to turn the lens around and aim straight for your face.

According to the latest leaks from seasoned tipster Digital Chat Station, the 2026 flagship cycle is set to witness a staggering shift as manufacturers begin testing 100MP selfie cameras.

While we are already bracing for dual 200MP setups on the back of phones like the rumored Xiaomi 18 Pro, the jump to a nine-digit megapixel count for a front-facing lens raises a provocative question about where actual utility ends and marketing vanity begins.

Challenges of 100MP Selfie Sensors

Fitting a hundred million pixels into the punch-hole of a modern display is less about a simple hardware upgrade and more about a breakthrough in engineering. To make this work, brands like Oppo and Huawei are reportedly developing custom “small-pixel” sensors that defy traditional size constraints.

Because these pixels are so tiny, they naturally struggle with light sensitivity, but the industry isn’t just throwing numbers at a wall for the sake of it. They are likely banking on advanced pixel-binning and potentially RYYB color filters to ensure your low-light selfies don’t look grainy.

Vlogging Flexibility

We are now in the social media age, where almost everyone is exploring content creation, whether it’s recording for TikTok, vlogging for YouTube, or sharing high-quality videos on Instagram.

The 100MP square sensor could allow creators to shoot a single high-resolution video vertically for TikTok while seamlessly cropping it into a horizontal format for YouTube, all without compromising 4K clarity.

Manufacturers are also reportedly embracing the new 1:1 square format, an innovation inspired by Apple’s Center Stage feature introduced with the iPhone 17. According to reports, Huawei’s Nova 16 series and Oppo’s Find X10 series are expected to feature these advanced square sensors, signaling a shift in how front-facing cameras are designed.

The real value here isn’t just in capturing more detail but in enabling digital zoom, stabilization, and reframing during post-production without any loss in quality.

This level of flexibility could turn smartphones into powerful tools for content creators, rivaling even dedicated vlogging rigs and making mobile devices the preferred choice for the social media generation.

Spec Race or Genuine Innovation?

Despite the excitement, some might wonder if our devices can handle the immense data demands of a 100MP selfie camera. After all, such high-resolution photos come with significant processing and storage requirements.

However, with the advancements in modern chipsets and AI, refining and optimizing these massive images is no longer a challenge. AI-driven algorithms can efficiently enhance light, detail, and color in real time, ensuring that even high-resolution selfies are polished and ready to share instantly.

Ultimately, the 100MP selfie revolution might be the ultimate spec flex, but innovation is always welcome, and Android manufacturers have proven its value. Unless we experiment with new spaces, we won’t know what to expect.

Five years ago, capturing the moon with such detail seemed impossible, yet here we are. The front camera is the final frontier of smartphone imaging, and it is finally getting the upgrade it deserves.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

The post The 100MP Front Camera Revolution: Necessary or Just Spec Race? appeared first on Gizmochina.

The smartphone market is facing mounting instability in early 2026, driven by a sharp and sustained surge in memory chip prices. According to popular tipster Digital Chat Station, the impact is already rippling across product segments, with mid-range phones on the verge of being pulled from shelves and next-gen flagships entering development limbo.

The strain isn’t limited to increased bill of materials (BOM) costs. It is disrupting brand roadmaps and forcing internal teams to rethink launch schedules. Even Apple has reportedly felt the pressure, as suppliers like Samsung and SK Hynix have raised LPDDR memory prices by up to 100%. Some value-segment devices released in late 2025 may be phased out earlier than planned, while their successors have been pushed to mid-2026 or later. When they do eventually launch, many are expected to carry higher price tags.

Digital Chat Station also says that some internal product teams now view new smartphone launches as high-risk financial liabilities. In response, several brands have already paused development of their next-generation flagship phones. There is growing concern that brands may exit certain regional markets entirely to stem losses.

In a related post from late January, the same source pointed to the mid-range segment, especially the 2,000 to 2,500 yuan tier ($275-$345), as the most vulnerable. The pressure is evident: early Snapdragon 8 Elite phones have quietly dropped launch discounts, the price difference between 512GB and 256GB models has widened to over 400 yuan ($58), and 1TB variants are practically disappearing. Some phones are slashing production volumes just weeks after launch, while others aren’t making it out of prototype stages.

As pricing volatility collides with thinning margins, it’s clear that 2026 might be less about product innovation and more about survival. What used to be a battle of specs could quickly turn into a test of who can stay afloat, and which phone brands are still standing when the dust settles.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

(Source)

The post Memory chip price surge could trigger smartphone market crisis in 2026 appeared first on Gizmochina.

Most flagship smartphones today do look strikingly similar. Big OLED screens, slim bezels and stacked cameras dominate the landscape. This convergence is not a failure of creativity but a sign that the fundamentals are largely solved. Large, bright displays, multi-lens cameras and all-day battery life are no longer differentiators. They are basic expectations. We may have reached a point where this sameness is not a sign of stagnation, but of maturity. Phones look alike on the outside because the obvious design problems have been solved. That does not mean innovation has stopped. It has simply moved deeper.

Increasing Focus on Internal Hardware and Software

Under the hood, progress is accelerating. Smartphone makers are reorganizing their devices around next-generation operating systems and increasingly powerful chips, with generative AI becoming a core feature rather than an add-on. Apple’s latest A-series silicon brings advanced on-device machine learning to photos and videos, automatically analyzing scenes and optimizing results in real time. Google’s Pixel lineup leans heavily on AI as well, from smarter voice recognition and predictive text to sophisticated computational photography. The broader shift is toward phones that can run large models locally, handle complex tasks offline for privacy, draft content, translate languages instantly and adapt to user behavior. In effect, the modern smartphone is becoming a pocket-sized computer that learns as you use it.

Preview	Product
	Google Pixel 10 5G (Frost, 12GB RAM, 256GB Storage)	Check Price on Amazon India

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Preview	Product
	Google Pixel 10 Pro – Unlocked Android Smartphone – Gemini AI Assistant, Triple Rear Camera System,…	Check Price on Amazon Global

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Advances in Mobile Connectivity

Connectivity is another area where users will feel the change even if they never see it in a product render. The era of having no signal is slowly fading. Satellite connectivity is beginning to fill the gaps left by traditional cellular networks, enabling basic messaging and emergency features far beyond tower coverage, with voice and data support on the horizon. Upcoming phones are expected to push this further by integrating everyday apps such as maps and messaging with satellite links. Whether you are in a remote village or hiking in the mountains, your phone’s reach is expanding dramatically. This kind of innovation is invisible in the spec sheet glamour shots, but valuable in everyday use.

Battery Capacity and Charging Improvements

Power systems have also taken a major leap forward. Battery capacities that once seemed excessive are now common, with many phones packing cells in the 5,000 to 8,000 mAh range. Fast charging has become genuinely fast, with some devices capable of refilling from empty to full in well under half an hour. New battery chemistries and more efficient power management deliver longer endurance without making phones thicker. Wireless charging has improved as well, reaching speeds that rival older wired solutions. As a result, battery anxiety is becoming less of a daily concern for many users.

Thermal Management and Sustained Performance

All that extra performance and power creates heat, and manufacturers are addressing that head-on. High-end phones now use advanced vapor-chamber cooling systems that spread heat more effectively across the chassis. This allows chips to sustain higher performance for longer periods without throttling, even during gaming, video recording or AI workloads. While the exterior design may appear familiar, the internal engineering is increasingly focused on consistency and reliability.

Ongoing Exploration of New Form Factors

Foldables show that hardware experimentation continues alongside mainstream designs. Devices like the Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold demonstrate alternative form factors, while newer tri-fold designs unfold into larger displays and push the limits of hinges, screens and battery engineering. These products are not aimed at all users, and early generations typically appeal to enthusiasts. Even so, they play a role in advancing components that later appear in conventional smartphones.

Preview	Product
	Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 5G Smartphone with Galaxy AI (Coralred, 12GB RAM, 256GB Storage), Ultra Sleek…	Check Price on Amazon India
	Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 5G AI Smartphone (Blue, 12GB RAM, 256GB Storage) Without Offer	Check Price on Amazon India

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Preview	Product
	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Cell Phone, 256GB AI Smartphone,	Check Price on Amazon Global

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Incremental Design, Continued Evolution

The broader picture suggests that while external design changes have slowed, smartphone development remains active in other areas. Flagship designs have converged because the basic formula works well, and manufacturers are now emphasizing refinement. Inside the device and in software, progress continues through AI capabilities, connectivity improvements, sensor upgrades and better power and thermal management. Smartphones may look familiar, but they are still evolving in meaningful ways.

The post Have Smartphones Reached Peak Innovation or Is It Just Moving Under the Hood? appeared first on Gizmochina.

Global smartphone shipments are expected to fall 2.1% in 2026 due to a sharp rise in memory prices, according to a revised forecast from Counterpoint Research. The research firm downgraded its earlier projection by 2.6 percentage points, with Chinese brands like Honor, Oppo, and Vivo facing the steepest shipment cuts.

The low-end smartphone segment is likely to suffer the most. Counterpoint reports that BoM (bill of materials) costs for devices under $200 have jumped by 20% to 30% since early 2025. Mid-range and premium segments have also seen increases of 10% to 15%. The firm expects memory prices to rise another 40% through Q2 2026, which could push BoM costs even higher by 8% to over 15%.

Average selling prices (ASPs) are also being revised upward. Counterpoint now forecasts a 6.9% YoY ASP increase in 2026, compared to its earlier estimate of 3.6% from September 2025.

OEMs are adjusting their strategies to manage rising costs. Some have started cutting back on low-end SKUs and reducing specifications on select models. Senior analysts confirmed that companies are scaling back features like camera hardware, display quality, and RAM capacity to preserve margins. Several brands have resumed using older components or redirected users toward higher-priced Pro variants.

Recent smartphone launches, including the OnePlus 15 and iQOO 15 in India, debuted at significantly higher prices than their predecessors. Reports also suggest Samsung may raise prices for its upcoming Galaxy S26 and current A series.

The memory crisis has already impacted other categories. Xiaomi and Honor have raised tablet prices in China. Analysts expect more brands to follow as DRAM supply remains tight due to growing AI data center demand. Counterpoint warns that brands lacking scale or vertical integration will struggle to balance profitability and shipment volumes in 2026.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

(Source)

The post Smartphone shipments will decline in 2026 due to RAM shortages: Counterpoint appeared first on Gizmochina.

A newly smuggled smartphone from North Korea has just offered us a glimpse at the unusual depth of the state’s control in its citizens’ daily life. This model is packed with restrictions and surveillance tools that are tailored to reinforce the government’s message. So let’s have a look.

A Peek at North Korea’s Bizarre Smartphone

The rare look at this smartphone from North Korea comes from a BBC video, which was originally acquired by Seoul’s Daily NK. This paints an unsettling picture of the lives of North Koreans under Kim Jong Un’s regime. Right from the get-go, you see a North Korean flag as you power up the smartphone. While no official branding is revealed, it is immediately clear that the device is highly customized to fit the rigid requirements of the government.

The smartphone comes with automatic censorship that can detect when certain words are being used. This even includes something as simple as “oppo”, which is a Korean term for older brother. But in South Korea, girls often use it to refer to their boyfriends. So this device changes the word to “comrade” and also shares a warning message. Taking things even further, you can’t even type “South Korea” since it can automatically be changed to “puppet state”.

The North Korean government routinely monitors these smartphones since the phone silently captures a screenshot every five minutes. These images are then stored in a hidden folder that users can’t access. But as one can surmise, the screenshots are likely being used to monitor the user’s daily activities.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Tech enthusiast? Get the latest news first! Follow our Telegram channel and subscribe to our free newsletter for your daily tech fix!

The post An unsettling look at a North Korean smartphone appeared first on Gizmochina.

India’s love affair with smartphones is only growing stronger, but there’s a rising undercurrent that brands are still ignoring: users want compact phones, and not just budget-friendly ones. According to a new consumer survey from Counterpoint Research, there’s a real appetite for compact smartphones that don’t cut corners on performance. In fact, 88 percent of respondents said they would buy a smaller device if it could match the power and battery life of today’s larger flagships.

Here’s the thing: the definition of “compact” has changed. The survey finds that a majority of Indian users, especially younger professionals and early jobbers, consider a 6 to 6.5-inch display to be the sweet spot. That might sound big, but in a world where most devices hover closer to 6.7 or 6.8 inches, shaving off even half an inch can dramatically improve one-handed usability.

And that’s exactly the point. Over 55 percent of respondents cited ease of handling and one-handed use as key reasons for preferring smaller phones. Add to that the comfort factor during long usage sessions, and it becomes clear that form factor isn’t just about portability, it’s about daily practicality.

Yet, the options are slim. In 2024, nearly 90 percent of smartphones launched had displays larger than 6.5 inches. Brands continue to chase bigger screens, louder specs, and flashier designs while overlooking a large chunk of the user base that just wants something that fits better in the hand, doesn’t strain the wrist, and still runs like a beast.

Consumers aren’t willing to compromise, either. Over half of the surveyed users won’t settle for a phone that sacrifices processor strength or battery life for size. And this isn’t just about productivity. A surprising 86 percent of respondents said they would actually prefer compact devices for mobile gaming, citing better ergonomics and reduced hand fatigue. AI-powered features, customizable shortcuts, and advanced thermal designs are also in demand, reflecting just how high the bar has been set even for a smaller phone.

So who’s in the running to meet this demand? Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus came out on top as the brands users trust most to get the compact formula right. But as things stand, the gap is wide open and ripe for disruption.

While nothing shifts overnight, there’s reason to be optimistic. Battery tech has improved drastically over the past year with the introduction of silicon-carbon batteries, and thermal management in phones has also seen a leap forward. These advancements give brands the headroom to experiment with more compact yet capable phones.

That said, making devices smaller than 6.1 or 6.2 inches might not make much sense anymore, given how much content people consume and how central gaming has become. If there is a new compact flagship wave coming, it will likely hover around the 6.3-inch mark, arguably the new goldilocks zone for phones in 2025.

In related news, you might also want to check out how the Vivo X200 Ultra blurs the line between smartphones and real cameras.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

The post Most Indians want compact smartphones, but options are limited: Counterpoint survey appeared first on Gizmochina.

According to a recent survey conducted among consumers who purchased smartphones during the 2024 festive season highlights that “choice” has become the primary reason for opting for online marketplaces. While discounts and promotional offers have traditionally been strong motivators, the availability of preferred models, variants, and colors is now the leading factor influencing online purchases.

Why More Consumers Prefer Buying Smartphones Online

The survey was conducted among 2,000 respondents who bought smartphones during Flipkart’s Big Billion Days and Amazon’s Great India Festival. These two platforms remain dominant during India’s festive period, which begins in September and peaks around Diwali. Although pricing differences between online and offline channels have narrowed in recent years, online platforms continue to offer advantages that appeal to buyers.

Among the key findings, 44% of online smartphone buyers cited product choice as the main reason for purchasing online, whereas only 20% prioritized discounts. Nearly half of the respondents compared prices with offline retailers before completing their purchase, and many found no significant difference. In cases where online prices were lower, some buyers managed to negotiate similar deals at offline stores.

The flexibility of online shopping emerged as another strong factor. About 73% of respondents valued the ability to research products at their own pace, explore multiple options, and revisit their purchase decisions without pressure from sales representatives.

Confidence in online marketplaces has also grown significantly, with consumers rating their trust level at 4.5 out of 5. Amazon received a slightly higher score of 4.7, compared to Flipkart’s 4.3. Only 1% of respondents reported issues such as incorrect or incomplete deliveries.

While artificial intelligence features influenced purchasing decisions for 17% of buyers, they were not the primary factor. Customer ratings and reviews played a much bigger role, with 81% of respondents checking them before making a final decision.

Upgrades were the driving force behind most purchases, as 87% of buyers replaced their smartphones with newer models. Exchange offers were also popular, with 23% of respondents using trade-in deals. The average amount spent on smartphones during the festive season stood at Rs. 28,000 ($323).

Looking ahead, online marketplaces are expected to maintain their dominance in smartphone sales. In 2025, online channels are projected to contribute 53-55% of total sales volume, with marketplaces like Flipkart and Amazon accounting for 85% of these purchases.

Although hybrid retail models are evolving, online platforms continue to offer unmatched convenience and variety, making them the preferred choice for consumers.

You can also read our latest article on the future of smartphone innovation, which explores advancements like rollable screens, multi-hinge designs, and ultra-thin form factors.

For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.

Tech enthusiast? Get the latest news first! Follow our Telegram channel and subscribe to our free newsletter for your daily tech fix!

(Source)

The post Choice, not discounts, is the top reason for buying smartphones online in India appeared first on Gizmochina.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, smartphones have become indispensable tools, and artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing their capabilities. AI-powered features are transforming how we interact with our devices, making them more intuitive, efficient, and personalized. Let’s explore some of the must-use AI features that are enhancing the smartphone experience:

AI Summarization

In an age of information overload, AI summarization is a game-changer. This feature uses natural language processing (NLP) to condense lengthy articles, documents, and web pages into concise summaries. Whether you’re trying to grasp the main points of a news article or quickly review a research paper, AI summarization can save you valuable time and effort.

Preview	Product
	Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G AI Smartphone (Titanium Black, 12GB, 256GB Storage)_Without Offer	Check Price on Amazon

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

AI Photo Editing

AI has significantly elevated smartphone photography. AI-powered photo editing tools can automatically enhance images, adjust lighting and color balance, remove unwanted objects, and even suggest creative edits. Features like portrait mode, scene recognition, and AI filters empower users to capture stunning photos with minimal effort.

Circle to Search

Circle to Search is an AI-powered search feature that allows you to search for anything on your screen simply by circling it with your finger or stylus. This intuitive search method eliminates the need to type out queries, making it incredibly convenient for finding information about images, objects, or text directly from your screen.

AI Predictive Text and Typing

AI predictive text and typing have become integral to our messaging experience. By learning your writing style and frequently used words, AI can accurately predict your next word or phrase, saving you time and keystrokes. This feature also helps to correct typos and grammatical errors, ensuring clear and efficient communication.

AI Voice Assistants

AI voice assistants like Google Assistant and Siri have become ubiquitous on smartphones. These intelligent virtual assistants can perform a wide range of tasks, from setting alarms and reminders to answering questions and controlling smart home devices. With natural language understanding, they can comprehend your requests and provide helpful responses, making your life more convenient.

AI Rewriter

AI rewriter tools can help you refine your writing by suggesting alternative phrasing, improving sentence structure, and correcting grammatical errors. Whether you’re crafting an email, writing a social media post, or working on a document, AI rewriter can elevate your writing quality and ensure your message is clear and impactful.

Real-time Language Translation

AI-powered real-time language translation has made it easier than ever to communicate with people from different linguistic backgrounds. By leveraging machine learning, these tools can instantly translate spoken or written language, facilitating seamless cross-cultural communication. Whether you’re traveling abroad or connecting with international colleagues, real-time translation can bridge language gaps and foster understanding.

Conclusion

These AI-powered features are transforming smartphones into intelligent and versatile tools that enhance our daily lives. As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative and transformative features to emerge, further revolutionizing the smartphone experience.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

The post Top 7 Smartphone AI Features You Can’t Afford to Miss appeared first on Gizmochina.

The rollout of 5G technology has marked a significant leap in telecommunications, promising ultra-fast internet speeds, lower latency, and enhanced connectivity. Alongside this development, 5G smartphones have flooded the market, with manufacturers touting them as the future of mobile communication.

However, the question remains: Are 5G smartphones worth buying? To answer this, we must consider their technical advantages, practical benefits, and current limitations.

Technical Advancements of 5G Smartphones

5G technology represents the fifth generation of cellular networks, offering several technical improvements over its predecessor, 4G LTE. The most important feature is the enhanced data speeds, which can theoretically reach up to 10 Gbps, significantly faster than 4G’s peak speed of 1 Gbps. This improvement translates into faster downloads, seamless 4K or 8K video streaming, and smoother online gaming experiences.

Another technical advancement is the reduced latency. While 4G networks typically have a latency of around 50 milliseconds, 5G networks can reduce this to as low as 1 millisecond. This near-instantaneous responsiveness is crucial for applications such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and autonomous vehicles.

5G networks also support a higher density of connected devices per unit area, enabling the expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT) and fostering advancements in smart cities and industrial automation.

Benefits of Owning a 5G Smartphone

For consumers, 5G smartphones offer several immediate and potential benefits. First and foremost, they future-proof your investment. As 5G networks continue to expand, having a compatible device ensures you can take full advantage of the network’s capabilities without needing an upgrade in the near future.

Moreover, 5G smartphones are not just about faster internet. They often come equipped with cutting-edge hardware to support the demands of 5G technology. This includes advanced processors, better antennas, and improved thermal management systems. These devices are usually flagship models, offering superior build quality, display technology, and camera systems.

Professionals who rely on mobile connectivity for work can particularly benefit from 5G smartphones. Tasks such as video conferencing, cloud computing, and remote collaboration become more efficient with faster and more stable connections.

Current Limitations of 5G Smartphones

Despite their advantages, 5G smartphones are not without drawbacks. One of the primary concerns is the availability of 5G networks. While 5G coverage is expanding rapidly, it remains limited in many regions, especially rural areas. If you live in an area without robust 5G infrastructure, the benefits of owning a 5G smartphone may be minimal.

Battery consumption is another issue. 5G connections require more power than 4G, which can drain batteries quickly. While manufacturers are addressing this with larger batteries and more efficient processors, the problem persists in some models.

Price is also a consideration. 5G smartphones are generally more expensive than their 4G counterparts. For budget-conscious consumers, the additional cost may not justify the current benefits, especially if 5G networks in their area are not fully operational.

Are 5G Smartphones Worth It?

Whether a 5G smartphone is worth buying depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you live in a metropolitan area with good 5G coverage, frequently engage in data-intensive activities, or want a future-proof device, investing in a 5G smartphone makes sense.

On the other hand, if 5G networks are sparse in your area, or if you primarily use your phone for basic tasks, sticking with a 4G device may be more practical.

If you’ve made it this far, be sure to check out our article on the best smartphones for New Year photography in 2025.

Stay ahead in tech! Join our Telegram community and sign up for our daily newsletter of top stories!

The post Are 5G Smartphones Worth Buying? appeared first on Gizmochina.

Vivo X100S is now available on Giztop. The smartphone comes in Black, Green, White, and Titanium color variants and can be bought for a starting price of $699 only. Let’s delve into the features that make this device a must-have for tech enthusiasts and creative minds alike.

At the heart of the Vivo X100S lies its captivating 6.78-inch FHD+ AMOLED display. With a resolution of 2800×1260 pixels, every image and video comes to life with breathtaking clarity and vibrant colors. Whether you’re streaming your favorite content or immersing yourself in mobile gaming, the display’s 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, while the 1440Hz high-frequency dimming enhances viewing comfort, even in low-light conditions.

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor and Immortalis-G720 GPU, the Vivo X100S delivers uncompromising performance for all your tasks. From multitasking with ease to handling graphics-intensive applications, this chipset ensures a seamless user experience. Paired with 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4 storage, you’ll have ample room for your apps, photos, and media files, all while enjoying lightning-fast data transfer speeds.

Equipped with a triple camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 64MP periscope zoom lens, and a 50MP portrait lens, the Vivo X100S empowers you to unleash your creativity and capture life’s moments with unparalleled clarity and precision. Whether you’re shooting breathtaking landscapes or striking portraits, each photo will be a masterpiece. On the front, the 32MP selfie camera ensures you always look your best, whether you’re video calling loved ones or snapping selfies.

The Vivo X100S features a robust 5100mAh battery, ensuring uninterrupted power for your busy day. Plus, its 100W wired fast charging capability means less time plugged in and more time on the move. Charge up to 50% in only 11 minutes and achieve a full charge in just 34 minutes

The Vivo X100S comes with NFC, an in-display fingerprint sensor, and facial recognition, ensuring your data remains safe while enabling effortless device access. Enjoy immersive audio experiences through HiFi support and dual stereo speakers, whether you’re listening to music or watching videos. With OriginOS 4 on Android 14, the interface is fast, intuitive, and adaptive, keeping you productive and connected wherever you go.

Vivo X100S redefines the smartphone experience with its stunning display, powerhouse performance, and innovative features. 

The post Vivo X100S is now for $699 at Giztop appeared first on Gizmochina.

Chinese smartphone manufacturer Blackview has unveiled the Oscal Modern 8, a budget model that presents a decent specs array and a budget price tag. The introductory offer of the smartphone which is powered by Unisoc’s T616 SoC is just under $100 for the lower configuration model.

Features

The new Oscal Modern 8 runs on the Android 13-based DokeOS 4.0 mobile operating system. It has a 6.75-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels. It also crams a generous 6,000mAh battery under the hood with 18W fast charging support.

The Unisoc T616 chipset powering the device is an entry-level processor that offers some good performance specs. The Modern 8 has gone through some reliability testing and it came out with some remarkable results including an AnTuTu score of 285,000. The smartphone features a 50MP Samsung ISOCELL JN1-based rear camera and an 8MP Samsung ISOCELL 4H7 front camera. The rear camera was unveiled in 2021 and has a 1/2.76-inch sensor as well as a pixel size of 0.64 micrometer. The smartphone can achieve a peak brightness of 450 nits and a display refresh rate of 90Hz.

The Oscal Modern 8 smartphone has an integrated cooling system that keeps it cool even during CPU-intensive activities. The 6,000mAh battery can be used for gaming for up to 8 hours on a single charge while it achieves up to 744 hours on standby mode. Connectivity options for the Oscal Modern 8 are the basics but the smartphone does not support NFC and 5G network connectivity. Three color options namely Ash Grey, Ripple Blue, and Wisteria Purple are available for customers to choose from.

Pricing & Availability

The Oscal Modern 8 smartphone is being offered at an introductory discounted price up till March 27. The 8/128GB model retails for $95.99 while the 8/256GB version of the smartphone is priced at $108.21. The early bird discount regime for the Oscal Modern 8 is 52% and it can be purchased online via AliExpress.

Related:

The post Blackview Oscal Modern 8 is a budget phone with Unisoc T616, Android 13 starting at $95.99 appeared first on Gizmochina.

Smartphone manufacturers pay a lot of attention to mobile photography. Especially some brands are making efforts to improve the camera in mobile devices and are partnering with different companies. For example, Xiaomi is partnering with Leica.

As an effort of this partnership, smartphones are specially tested by both companies and not only that, they also add advanced effects for photos. Of course, you may ask whether every brand needs to partner with another company. Well, some companies may feel that they no longer need to partner and may soon decide to start their own image development company.

Device manufacturers create their own imaging companies

With advanced hardware, smartphones can deliver good photos, although not as good as photographic cameras. Many device manufacturers work on mobile photography and cameras are developing more and more every day.

Now the latest report from Digital Chat Station surprises everyone. Some smartphone manufacturers are reportedly preparing to stop making exclusive partnerships for imaging systems and will set up their own private companies. First of all, it is not known which brand will establish its own imaging company.

But we don’t think Xiaomi’s partnership with Leica will end immediately, so this could happen in the future for Xiaomi. It’s thought that Vivo or Oppo will set up their own special imaging company. Formerly, Huawei ended its partnership with Leica and created its own company called XMAGE. This company works to improve the photo and video quality of Huawei devices.

Related:

• Huawei is reportedly testing two screen sizes for the P70 series
• Xiaomi 14 series India launch near as brand shares Leica partnership
• The Best Leica-Branded Xiaomi Smartphone Cameras (October 2023)
• This is the First “Leica Summilux Lens” Equipped Smartphone
• The Huawei P60 Pro: The new king of smartphone cameras according to DxOMark

The post Smartphone manufacturers are creating their own imaging companies for mobile photography appeared first on Gizmochina.

The latest report by research firm Omdia indicates that the global smartphone market expanded by 8.6% year on year (YoY) in Q4 2023. This is a decent performance even with rising inflations in some markets within the global marketplace. The report also highlighted a 6.5% YoY improvement by Cupertino company Apple within the last quarter of 2023.

The global smartphone market achieved shipments of about 328 million units within Q4 2023. The growth is the first significant change in fortunes since 2021, thus stemming 9 consecutive quarters of decline YoY in smartphone shipments. This is coming on the heels of a quite turbulent 2022 where the market had to grapple with supply chain disruptions and other challenges. Overall shipments for 2023 (Q1-Q4 2023) declined by 3.5% YoY highlighting the current challenges.

Apple recorded a leading performance among its competitors in Q4 2023. It achieved a record-making 78.7 million units in shipments, indicating a 6.5% improvement from the same period in 2022. The surge in shipments by Apple is believed to be driven by increased demand for the iPhone 15 lineup. Apple’s major competitor Samsung recorded a 9% decline in shipments within the period in comparison to Q4 2022. However, Chinese powerhouse, Xiaomi continued to improve on its recovery efforts with 41.2 million units in shipments. Other brands on the list are Transsion, Oppo, Honor, and Motorola.

The outlook of the global smartphone shipment trajectory for 2024 is positive, as it is expected to return to growth this year. Omdia however predicts potential challenges that could result in declines in the second half of 2024. Some of the parameters that could affect the growth trajectory include delays in economic recovery, political instability, and the growing demand for used/ refurbished smartphones due to the reduced purchasing power of consumers.

RELATED:

• NVIDIA RTX Remix open beta officially released offering ray tracing and DLSS in one click to supported games
• Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang Strategically Returns to China Amidst Tech Tensions
• Xiaomi Band 8 Genshin Impact custom edion get a huge discount.
• OnePlus partners with Pixelworks to Elevate Mobile Gaming Experience on the OnePlus 12

(source)

The post Omdia reports an 8.6% YoY growth in global smartphone shipments for Q4 2023; Apple sees 6.5% YoY growth appeared first on Gizmochina.

Competition is heating up in the smartphone market. Big players like Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, and others are in a fierce race to outdo each other and grab a larger market share. While even the major companies face challenges, smaller manufacturers find it tough to shine. To stand out, they focus on differentiating factors like durability in their products. However, sometimes, even that isn’t sufficient. Bullitt Group, the company behind the rugged smartphones of Caterpillar (Cat Phones) and Motorola Defy, is now closing down. Here are the details…

The End for CAT Phones and Motorola Defy as The Bullitt Group Bankrupt

Bullitt Group, known for rugged phone brands like CAT and Motorola Defy, has filed for bankruptcy. The British company had been facing challenging times and attempting to undergo restructuring. Despite these efforts, the management declared bankruptcy as a last resort. Many of the company’s employees have been laid off, and the fate of Bullitt’s brands and products remains uncertain.

Actually, the financial crisis within the company was no secret. In fact, as I mentioned, a restructuring was in the works. According to the plan, Bullitt would transfer the smartphone department to a new company operated by creditors. Both existing brands like CAT would be assessed, and the necessary funds would be available to focus on the British manufacturer’s satellite connectivity solutions.

For example, Bullitt introduced the first consumer phone, the CAT S75, capable of satellite messaging without the need for special external hardware before Apple. However, all these plans fell apart. With the bankruptcy decision, the future of initiatives like CAT’s became uncertain. Yet, it’s worth noting that bankruptcy may not be the end, and CAT could potentially continue its journey in the smartphone market under a different parent company in the future.

RELATED:

• Best smart luggage of 2023: Modobag, Weego, Incase & More
• Alldocube iWork GT 12: AMD 2i-in-1 laptop, $100 off and free keyboard
• Aoostar R1 N100:  Intel N100 NAS / Mini PC with Windows 11 for $219
• Lenovo Legion Y700 2023: Save $100 on this 8-inch gaming Android tablet

The post CAT Phones and Motorola Defy Future Uncertain as Bullitt Group Declares Bankruptcy appeared first on Gizmochina.

India stands out as a key tech market and a central hub for tech companies, catering not just to sales but also production. Companies like Apple and Xiaomi manufacture their products within the country. The government is proactively enhancing its attractiveness for investments, offering diverse incentive packages. As of January 31, 2024, India has decreased the import duty on smartphone components from 15% to 10%, showcasing its commitment to fostering a favorable business environment. Here are the details…

India’s 10% Import Duty Sparks Surge in Smartphone Production

India has decreased the import duty on smartphone components from 15% to 10%, intending to boost smartphone manufacturing and reduce prices. As a result, companies manufacturing in India will now pay lower taxes on items like camera lenses, back covers, plastic and metal mechanical parts, GSM antennas, and other components imported from other countries.

This decision brought joy to major manufacturers, including Apple. While a drop from 15% to 10% may not appear substantial initially, it’s crucial to acknowledge that we’re dealing with operations valued in billions of dollars. The cost reduction could motivate current manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, Realme, and OnePlus to boost their investments and inspire new ones to initiate production in India.

“Duty cuts on import of mobile phone parts would help big global manufacturers to set up large scale mobile assembly lines in India, and substantially increase exports of mobile phones,” said Rajat Mohan, a director at tax consultancy firm MOORE Singhi.

In 2022, Apple started making iPhones and AirPods at its factory in India, with a hefty $1 billion investment. Xiaomi, since 2014, runs five Indian factories, producing smartphones like Redmi, Mi, and POCO. Samsung, having started production in India back in 2007, operates six factories, making phones under brands like Galaxy, M, and A. This decision seems to be very beneficial for all these brands and many more.

RELATED:

• Best smart luggage of 2023: Modobag, Weego, Incase & More
• Alldocube iWork GT 12: AMD 2-in-1 laptop, $100 off and free keyboard
• Aoostar R1 N100:  Intel N100 NAS / Mini PC with Windows 11 for $219
• Lenovo Legion Y700 2023: Save $100 on this 8-inch gaming Android tablet

The post Smartphone Manufacturing Thrives as India Cuts Import Duty to 10% for Apple, Xiaomi, and Other Major Manufacturers appeared first on Gizmochina.

Tecno continues to expand its product lineup and strengthen its position in the global smartphone market. For example, recently the company has been setting new sales records with its Spark 20. Additionally, it shows no signs of slowing down. One of the most concrete examples of this is the new Tecno Spark 20 Pro+. The eagerly awaited phone launched with a powerful MediaTek processor, an impressive 108MP+32MP camera system, a sleek double-curved design, a stunning display, and more. Here are the details of Tecno Spark 20 Pro+ specs and price…

TECNO Newest Spark 20 Pro+ Brings Many Industry-first Features in its Price Bracket

The Tecno Spark 20 Pro+ comes with a 6.78-inch Curved AMOLED display. It has a 120Hz refresh rate, P3 color gamut, and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. It also offers a 1500Hz instant touch sampling rate and Smart Refresh 3.1 for smoother swiping. Its Double Curved Design not only looks great but also makes it comfortable to hold. With a thickness of 7.55mm and weighing 190 grams, this device is equipped with flagship-grade glass for excellent durability against scratches and drops. Additionally, it holds IP53 certification, providing water- and dust-proof capabilities for added peace of mind.

When we look under the hood, we see the Helio G99 Ultimate, a custom variation of MediaTek’s Helio G99. Thanks to this chipset, the company can maintain affordability without sacrificing performance. This processor is paired with 16 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. However, . it’s worth noting that out of the 16 GB RAM, 8 GB is extended, which means it functions as virtual RAM. Additionally, the device is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery supporting up to 33W charging speed.

The Tecno Spark 20 Pro+ is also stands out for its impressive camera capabilities. Its 108-megapixel main camera, which includes 3x lossless zoom and 10x digital zoom, can take highly detailed photos, from great distances. The camera’s large 1/1.67” sensor and F/1.75 aperture adapt well to different lighting situations. Furthermore, HDR Multi-Frame Fusion ensures well-balanced lighting and smart compositions. In addition to these features, the phone includes a 32MP Glowing Selfie Camera enhanced by AI portrait restoration and an expansive 88.9° golden lens, perfect for capturing stunning solo or group selfies.

Although the phone has three other rear cameras alongside the 108-megapixel one, the company hasn’t revealed specific details about them yet. Spark 20 Pro+ is also available in a fourth color – Magic Skin 2.0 Green – with TECNO’s upgraded Magic Skin technology, adding a luxurious touch and extreme durability while being more eco-friendly.

Availability & Price

Tecno Spark 20 Pro+ is expected to be broadly available from January 2024 across key regions including Africa, Latin America, South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Pricing will vary by region.

RELATED:

• Gizmochina – Best Smartphones Awards 2023
• Unlock Savings: Take 3% OFF on Every Giztop Product under the New Year Sale Extravaganza
• Get $100 OFF on Lenovo Legion Y700 2023 Gamin Tablet at Giztop
• Big Discount: AOOSTAR WTR R1 N100 NAS Mini PC Only For $159 at GeekWills

The post Tecno Launches Affordable Spark 20 Pro+ with Custom MediaTek Processor, 16 GB RAM, and 108 MP Camera appeared first on Gizmochina.

Smartphone manufacturers often make headlines by teaming up with other brands. These collaborations, usually aimed at combining the strengths of each brand and expanding their user base. It has also resulted in the creation of many memorable products over the years. For example, the Redmi Note 12 Turbo Harry Potter edition, which we at Gizmochina have also reviewed, serves as a prime example. Now, a similar partnership has occurred between Honor and Porsche.

The two companies have officially partnered for “Porsche Design” phones. Naturally, people from around the world quickly became excited and eagerly awaited. the new phone. However, it appears that the Honor Porsche Design Phone is limited to just 911 units and many will return home empty-handed. Here are the details…

Honor and Porsche Design’s Limited Edition Foldable Phone is on the Horizon

New informations are coming to light regarding the partnership between Honor and Porsche Design. Contrary to previous reports, the highly anticipated first device will not be the Magic 6 but rather a foldable phone. The key question is whether this upcoming phone, named the Honor Porsche 911, will be a revamped existing model or an entirely new product.

As of today, the Chinese manufacturer has only one foldable phone called the Magic V. However, this device powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is considered somewhat outdated by today’s standards. Therefore, it is likely that a new phone will be introduced instead of just a rebranded version.

If this development has excited you about the upcoming smartphone, stay calm. Because the phone, developed under the codename “Honor 911,” will have a limited production unit number. As the name suggests, there will be only 911 units of the phone, and most likely, a significant portion of them will be sent to technology publications like ours for review. As you may know, 911 is the iconic model name of Porsche.

Therefore, it’s possible to see influences from that model in the phone, such as similar design lines, shared materials, and colors. For now, these are all the details we know about the eagerly anticipated phone. However, you can be sure that we will keep you instantly informed of any developments.

RELATED:

• Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro Genshin Impact Special Edition up for sale
• Best Feature Phones with UPI support 2023: Nokia Dominates
• Giztop’s Christmas Holiday Savings: Unwrap Joy with Exclusive Discount
• Best Apple Watch Cases in 2023: Spigen, Otterbox, Casetify & More

(source)

The post Honor and Porsche Design Have Become Partners for a 911-Unit Limited Collector’s Dream Phone! appeared first on Gizmochina.

Foldable smartphones are becoming more and more popular. Recent reports show that in the third quarter of the year, companies like Samsung, Google, Huawei, Xiaomi, TECNO, and others sold a whopping 7 million foldable phones, setting a record. The annual growth rate is a solid 16%, and compared to the previous quarter, it shot up by a huge 215%. Now, the big question is: how much of the market did each brand grab during this amazing growth? Here are the details…

Samsung Dominates Q3 Foldable Smartphone Sales with 45% Market Share

When it comes to foldable smartphones, Samsung, the first brand that comes to mind, stayed at the top this quarter. The company grabbed a 45% share of the market. At first glance, it might raise eyebrows that the company’s numbers went down by 75%. However, when you consider the increasing competition and sales from other brands, it’s not all that surprising. This is especially true when you think about how Samsung’s models are pricier compared to all its competitors.

Right now, Honor and Huawei are both in the second spot in the market, sharing it with a 6% market share each. Other brands like OPPO, vivo, and Xiaomi are also in the mix. Experts are saying that the last quarter of 2023 might bring a change. They predict a significant drop in smartphone sales, with an expected decrease of as much as 36%.

Unfortunately, it looks like Samsung might be hit hard by this situation. As mentioned earlier, even though Samsung’s market share is decreasing, their positive outlook is mainly because the overall market is growing. To put it simply, while Samsung’s piece of the pie from a 100-slice cake is getting smaller, it’s not a big deal because the whole cake is getting bigger.

However, if sales drop and competition heats up in the last quarter of the year, and both the overall market and Samsung’s share go down, the Korean manufacturer could face a real problem. Still, there’s nothing we can do about all this except wait and see what happens.

RELATED:

• Best smart luggage of 2023: Modobag, Weego, Incase & More
• Alldocube iWork GT 12: AMD 2-in-1 laptop, $100 off and free keyboard
• Aoostar R1 N100:  Intel N100 NAS / Mini PC with Windows 11 for $219
• Lenovo Legion Y700 2023: Save $100 on this 8-inch gaming Android tablet

(via)

The post Samsung’s Reigns Q3 Foldable Smartphone Sales Skyrocket to 7 Million Units with 45% Share appeared first on Gizmochina.

A recent report by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology shows that the mobile phone market in China is experiencing a notable increase, with shipments witnessing a staggering year-on-year increase of nearly 60% in September 2023. This surge is attributed to a fresh wave of the “replacement tide,” fueled by the release of flagship models by several market brands, including the highly successful Huawei Mate60 series.

Out of the 33.2 million shipments 28.7 million devices were 5G-enabled

During September 2023, the domestic market saw the shipment of 33.277 million mobile phones, marking a 59.0% increase compared to the same period last year. Of these, 28.717 million were 5G-enabled devices, exhibiting an even more remarkable year-on-year increase of 90.1%. Notably, 5G phones accounted for 86.3% of total mobile phone shipments in the same period, signifying the growing dominance of 5G technology in the market.

The growth is not confined to the statistical realm alone; market consultation reports corroborate the upward trend. It signifies the revival of the mobile phone market in China after a period of stagnation. The improvement of the foldable smartphones is also capturing consumer interest and driving the desire to upgrade.

Market research firm Counterpoint supports this observation, reporting that China’s smartphone market is in recovery mode. It showcases an average sales increase of 11% in the first four weeks of October 2023. Analysts at Counterpoint anticipate a new “replacement wave” after more than three years, spurred by the recent releases of the iPhone 15 series and Huawei Mate60 series in September.

Related:

• Xiaomi 13 Ultra Premium Camera Phone is now only $799
• Get $50 Off on the latest Xiaomi Redmi K70 Pro
• Vivo iQOO 12 Pro: Save $100 on the flagship gaming phone
• Best smart luggage of 2023: Modobag, Weego, Incase & More
• Best Apple Watch Cases in 2023: Spigen, Otterbox, Casetify & More

The post Mobile phone shipments in China have seen 60% increase year-on-year in September appeared first on Gizmochina.

HTC is not shutting down its smartphone business in fact they are set to follow a new strategy of releasing 1-2 mobile phones each year. In recent statements, Huang Zhaoying, HTC’s Senior Vice President of global business and marketing, outlined the company’s plans and perspectives regarding its future in the highly competitive mobile phone sector.

HTC’s Strategic Focus on Communication and Consumer Needs

HTC’s strategy centers on maintaining its partnership with Qualcomm and using Snapdragon 7 series processors in upcoming models. This decision aligns with the company’s aim to cater to what it perceives as the ‘better-suited’ needs of its customers, rather than shifting to the more advanced Snapdragon 8 series.

The company prioritizes the core function of mobile phones: communication. While design and technology may evolve, HTC emphasizes the enduring importance of mobile communication, guiding its product development and release strategies. The specific specifications and release dates for these upcoming 2024 models are yet to be announced.

HTC’s recent market performance, particularly the sales of the HTC U23 series, has validated its strategic choices. As per Huang Zhaoying, the U23 series, comprising the U23 and U23 Pro models, has witnessed a significant sales increase of at least 30% when compared to the previous HTC Desire 22 Pro. This achievement is noteworthy given that the U23 series has been available for only six months, still within its product lifecycle. HTC’s focus on enhancing phone features, especially camera modules, has garnered a positive market response.

Beyond smartphones, HTC is also actively developing its metaverse ecosystem. The company has also collaborated with the Kaohsiung City Government to create a virtual metropolis.

RELATED:

• HTC U23 Pro now comes in Misty Red color variant
• HTC unveils new 65W Gallium Nitride (GaN) charger with multiple ports
• Aoostar R1 N100:  Intel N100 NAS / Mini PC with Windows 11 for $219
• Vivo iQOO 12 Pro: Save $100 on the flagship gaming phone
• Lenovo Legion Y700 2023: Save $100 on this 8-inch gaming Android tablet
• Best Apple Watch Cases in 2023: Spigen, Otterbox, Casetify & More

(Via)

The post HTC plans to launch 1-2 phones in 2024 using Snapdragon 7 series appeared first on Gizmochina.

Tecno continues to expand its product lineup. For example, the company recently introduced the Spark Go 2024. With this and similar models, Tecno aims to increase its market share in the smartphone industry, and it’s making significant strides in that direction. According to the latest reports, Tecno’s parent company, Transsion Holdings, had its most successful quarter in Q3 2023, demonstrating impressive financial performance. Here are the details…

How TECNO’s Premiumization & Regional Expansion Catapulted Transsion to Its Best Quarter Ever

According to Counterpoint’s report, in the third quarter of 2023, Tecno’s revenues saw a significant increase of 39% compared to the same period last year, reaching RMB 17.99 billion. The net profit also experienced an impressive growth of 190% YoY, totaling RMB 1.34 billion. This notable success was fueled by an enhanced gross profit margin of 25.2%, attributed to the shift towards higher-priced smartphones and the expansion into more lucrative markets. Tecno, Transsion’s leading brand, played a pivotal role in this outstanding performance, achieving a remarkable 62% YoY increase in smartphone shipments across all regions.

The significant growth in smartphone shipments played a crucial role in Transsion’s overall performance, experiencing a noteworthy 36% increase. Tecno saw a remarkable boost in its global market share, reaching 4% and securing the 9th position among smartphone brands. This achievement becomes even more impressive when considering that Tecno’s market share tripled in just three years.

Tecno’s success can be attributed to a strategic focus on two key areas: premiumization and regional expansion. The company has shifted towards offering higher-value smartphones, with nearly all Tecno devices now featuring 4G or 5G connectivity. The volume of 5G smartphones has witnessed a staggering growth of over 600% year-over-year. Furthermore, sales of Tecno’s premium Camon and Phantom series have increased by 53%, highlighting the brand’s appeal in the high-end segment.

Tecno’s venture into the foldable smartphone market has been a contributing factor to its success. The launch of two foldable smartphones, one at MWC and another in Singapore, has not only enhanced its global image but also demonstrated its ambitious outlook. Notably, the Phantom V Fold, Tecno’s most affordable foldable smartphone, has garnered attention for its impressive display, lack of creases on the inner screen, commendable battery life, and overall performance. These features align with Tecno’s strengths in the lower-priced segments, indicating its potential to compete effectively in the premium market.

RELATED:

• Best smart luggage of 2023: Modobag, Weego, Incase & More
• Alldocube iWork GT 12: AMD 2-in-1 laptop, $100 off and free keyboard
• Aoostar R1 N100:  Intel N100 NAS / Mini PC with Windows 11 for $219
• Lenovo Legion Y700 2023: Save $100 on this 8-inch gaming Android tablet

(source)

The post Tecno Climbs to the Top with 39% Revenue Growth, 190% Net Profit Surge, 62% Shipment Increase appeared first on Gizmochina.

This year, there has been a decline in the number of smartphones shipped around the world. Sales of smartphones have been falling in every major market, including those in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Following the ongoing festive sales, there’s a slight chance of improvement, but the overall year remained sluggish for global shipments. Surprisingly, the Middle Eastern smartphone market defied the global smartphone market signals and registered a 21% annual growth in Q3 2023.

Must See: Global smartphone market shows signs of recovery in 2024: Canalys

Middle-East Smartphone Shipments Details

As per a new Canalys research report, smartphone shipments in Middle Eastern countries (excluding Turkey) have registered a significant growth of 21%, with 12.0 million shipments. An increase in business growth due to local demand is one of the primary reasons behind the growth. Job and business opportunities have exceptionally increased in recent times, unaffected by falling oil prices.

The markets in Iraq and Saudi Arabia soared to historical highs, with 57% and 46% growth on a year-over-year basis, respectively. Surprisingly, despite some limitations and challenges while importing in US dollars, Iraq gained maximum growth. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates market registers only a 2% increase in shipments which is mostly fueled by increased tourist footfall. Qatar and Kuwait show a slight decline due to subdued demand in both countries.

Samsung accounts for 31% of the total smartphone shipments in Q3 2023. It is followed by Transsion with 22% share, Xiaomi with 15% share, Apple with 11% share, and Realme in 5th position with a mere 4% share.

Inclination towards Budget Smartphones in Middle-East

Unlike Southeast Asian markets, the Middle East is more inclined towards budget smartphones which translates to under $200 market. The maximum sales are garnered by Chinese brands such as Xiaomi, Transsion, and Honor.

“TRANSSION is steadily increasing its footprint in response to the expanding mass-market segment amid broader economic uncertainties. Infinix introduced exclusive models with Noon in Saudi Arabia, while Tecno promoted its Camon 20 with enhanced incentives in Iraq. While Xiaomi and HONOR strive to penetrate the premium market with enticing incentives and aggressive promotions, luring customers away from established brands demands persistent investment,” reveals Manish Pravinkumar, Dubai-based Senior Consultant at Canalys. 

Motorola further increases its growth in the enterprise businesses in the GCC region. However, Samsung and Apple remained at their respective positions with their extensive distribution network and ecosystem strategy, respectively.

Further, emerging brands are working on their marketing campaigns to garner sales. While Oppo and Honor are bringing foldable to the market to compete against Samsung’s prowess. However, “consumers in markets such as Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia will still hesitate to switch brands. Affordability, aspirational value and availability will be pivotal factors for emerging players, with schemes such as Buy Now Pay Later gaining traction through platforms such as Tabby and Tamara, proving beneficial for both retailers and consumers, “said Pravinkumar.

Related:

• Samsung Sets Ambitious Target of 250 Million Smartphone Shipments in 2024
• Redmi Note 12 5G is the fastest Android phone to surpass 1 Million shipments in 2023
• Global PC shipments decline for eighth straight quarter, says Gartner
• Apple Wipes Out Android in Global Smartphone Shipments; iPhone 14 Pro Max is the Most Popular Smartphone in the World

The post Middle Eastern Smartphone Market Grows Despite Global Downturn appeared first on Gizmochina.

The global economic crisis and inflation are impacting the world. Of course, this situation is adversely affecting technology companies, especially smartphone manufacturers. People are hesitant to spend money on products they deem “unnecessary,” and advancing technology isn’t helping. Even mid-range and entry-level phones are more than sufficient for daily use today. As a result, people don’t feel the need for a change, and this issue is not a new one.

Manufacturers have been struggling to reach their desired levels for the past two years, or at least they couldn’t reach them. A study published by Counterpoint reveals that there has been a shift in the global smartphone market. According to this, global smartphone sales in October 2023 showed annual growth for the first time since June 2021. Here are the details…

October Global Smartphone Market Sales Break Two-Year Losing Streak, Path Set for Gradual Recovery

The global smartphone market finally broke the 27-month-long downward trend. The sector, which grew by 5% compared to the same period the previous year, presented a positive picture for the first time since June 2021. The source of growth was the Middle East and Africa (MEA), followed closely by China and India.

Especially in China, the interest in smartphones increased significantly, especially after the release of the Huawei Mate 60 series. Moreover, with the addition of the iPhone 15 series, the rise became inevitable. This even reminded many of the days when there was fierce competition between Apple and Huawei.

Moreover, this is just the beginning. Experts predict growth for the global smartphone market in the last quarter of 2023. This may indicate that the impact of the economic crisis on phone manufacturers is at least diminishing. As you know, the Covid-19 pandemic was a golden age for technology companies.

During a period when the whole world was continuously shopping, everyone set records in sales, revenues, and profit margins. Just when those days might have seemed entirely behind us, the resurgence has excited smartphone manufacturers like Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, Huawei, and many others.

RELATED:

• Download the best GCam APK for Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
• Get $100 Discount on Alldocube iWork GT 12 at Geekwills (Coupon)
• Get the latest Xiaomi 14 smartphone for $599 at Geekwills
• Get $100 OFF on Lenovo Legion Y700 2023 Gamin Tablet at Giztop

(source)

The post Global Smartphone Market Shows Signs of Life After Two Years of Decline appeared first on Gizmochina.

P-UP World, a Japanese tech firm, is turning back time with the launch of its new phone, the Mode 1 RETRO II. A nostalgic nod to the flip phones that were the rage between 2005 and 2010, this device successfully fuses the old with the new.

Mode 1 RETRO II Key Specifications:

The device features a 3.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1440×720. It has a unique design with a numeric keypad beneath the screen, reminiscent of older phones. The device also includes customizable buttons around the Android navigation keys. Despite these features, it remains compact and lightweight, weighing only 145 grams. The device measures 112 mm x 52 mm x 20 mm when folded.

Despite its retro appearance, the phone doesn’t lag in modern-day features. Running on the Android 13 OS, it supports full Google services and even has side fingerprint recognition.

On the tech front, the Mode 1 RETRO II is equipped with MediaTek’s Helio G85 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of internal storage (expandable with an SD card). It features a 48-megapixel main camera and a 13-megapixel front camera. The device is powered by a 2500mAh battery and utilizes a Type-C port for charging and data transfer.

Targeting an interesting segment of the market, the Mode 1 RETRO II seems poised for those who miss the tactile feel of feature phones but need the functionalities of today’s smartphones. Whether it’s for pure nostalgia or utility, this device certainly offers a unique blend of past and present.

The device comes in Sheep White, and Wolf Black colors. Starting pre-orders on October 13th and set to be available on October 20th, this phone will retail at 29,800 Japanese yen, roughly 1,457 Chinese yuan ($199). There’s no info on the global availability yet.

RELATED:

• Dell Latitude 7230 Rugged Extreme Tablet with 12th-Gen Intel CPU & 10.1″ display unveiled
• Huawei Nova 12 series to feature satellite connectivity, specs leaked
• Xiaomi MIJIA Dictionary Pen goes on Sale for 699 Yuan (~$96)
• Samsung Galaxy S23 FE vs Xiaomi 13T Pro: Specs Comparison
• iPhone 15 Pro vs Google Pixel 8 Pro: Specs Comparison
• Redmi Note 13 vs Redmi Note 13 Pro: Specs Comparison

The post Mode 1 RETRO II, a retro flip smartphone with modern specs launched by a Japanese company appeared first on Gizmochina.

A smartphone and a can of deodorant led to an explosion that injured a couple of people inside and even managed to break the windows of cars that were parked outside. The incident took place in India, so here’s what went wrong.

Unknown Smartphone explodes in Nashik

The explosion occurred in a house that was situated in Nashik, Maharashtra. Usually, when such a device explodes, the damage is restricted to the immediate area or the person carrying it. However, the blast inside a home in Nashik had a much wider impact. According to an NDTV report, the mobile phone exploded inside a house in Nashik, which ended up injuring three people inside the residence.

The individuals suffered from a couple of serious injuries, which are currently being treated at a hospital. As of right now, the exact model of this handset is still unclear. Furthermore, the smartphone alone wasn’t the cause of such a large explosion. Apparently, a can of deodorant was in close proximity to the device. For those unaware, deodorant is a highly flammable product, with any small contact or even spark potentially leading to an explosion. Thus, the blast blew out the window near the smartphone which was being charged and even damaged the windows out side the house as well.

The cars that were parked around the house were also affected by the blast, with some of the cars having all of their window panels shattered. The image shared in the report reveals that the metal railings and furniture in the house were also burnt. But thankfully, there were no casualties caused by this explosion. The exact reason for the blast is still unclear at the moment, so stick around for more updates. Earlier this year, we reported on the OnePlus Nord 2 explosion and a Xiaomi device overheating and reportedly killing an 8-year-old child in China.

RELATED:

• The Global Smartphone Market’s Mass Extinction: 500 Local Smartphone Brands Disappeared in 6 Years
• Qualcomm’s New Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 Processor is a Secret Rebrand of Last Year’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 1
• Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro Max Fails the JerryRigEverything Durability Test, First iPhone to Fail This Decade
• Xiaomi Smart Band 8 vs Xiaomi Smart Band 7: Comparison
• Best Apple Watch Cases in 2023: Spigen, Otterbox, Casetify & More

The post Smartphone explosion injures 3 in India, shatters windows of cars parked outside appeared first on Gizmochina.

If you’re a regular Gizmochina reader, you might have noticed that we often mention how fierce the competition is in the smartphone market. Yet, many of you probably think we’re mainly talking about the rivalry between tech giants like Samsung, Apple, and Xiaomi, and might not take our words too seriously. However, a study by Counterpoint reveals the intensity of this competition. According to the published report, nearly 500 brands exited the smartphone market from 2017 to 2023. Here are the details…

Local Brands Vanish as Global Giants Dominate Smartphone Market

If you asked any of you to name companies competing in the global smartphone market, you’d probably give us a list of 10-20 brands, mostly consisting of major manufacturers. However, the global smartphone market is a much more fierce battlefield than you might think. Today, around 250 manufacturers worldwide are competing for a share of this market. This number was once much higher. Not so long ago, in 2017, there were over 700 brands vying for consumer attention, and within a six year, 65% of them exited the market.

Of course, there are many reasons for this decline, and some aren’t as bad as you might think. First, let’s consider why there were so many manufacturers at one time. The ever-increasing popularity of smartphones and the steadily growing numbers each quarter prompted many local and global companies to try their luck in this market.

I’m sure that no matter which country you read this from, a few manufacturers who normally did something else but at some point released their own Android phone will come to mind. In fact, these local smartphone brands were once hailed as titans in their own regions. However, they have been the main casualties in this market evolution.

Unfortunately, the rise of global brands and their expansion into more markets, coupled with their ability to produce better phones, has made it harder for local producers. Moreover, the sheer size of these global tech giants has allowed them to offer models with a higher price-to-performance ratio.

As a result, local brands which once dominated their markets have seen their market share decline, or have even exited the market entirely. Additionally, these local manufacturers, already lagging in advertising, have fallen further behind due to the absence of celebrity brand ambassadors and significant marketing events.

In the process we discussed, numerous reasons stood in the way of companies’ success, with the final blow coming from the Covid-19 pandemic. Even though there was an increased global demand for technology products and manufacturers struggled to meet this demand, disruptions in the supply chain and other economic issues impacted smaller producers even more.

As a result, 65% of brands that were producing their own smartphones in 2017 have now exited the market. This decline isn’t solely due to a crisis, especially considering there are still over 250 manufacturers. However, to protect consumers, competition shouldn’t be compromised, and the number of brands should not decrease much further.

RELATED:

• iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Huawei Mate 60 Pro: Specs Comparison
• Foldable Smartphone Market Grows 10% YoY in Q2 2023, China Drives Growth
• Nio Enters the Smartphone Market with a Bold New Smartphone That’s Designed to Work…
• Honor partners with PSAV Global to re-enter Indian smartphone market
• Indian Smartphone Market Sees a Significant Shift In 2023, Premium Segment Thrives

(source)

The post The Global Smartphone Market’s Mass Extinction: 500 Local Smartphone Brands Disappeared in 6 Years appeared first on Gizmochina.

The competition in the smartphone market is fierce. Manufacturers around the world are competing to offer the latest technologies at the most affordable prices, and as a result, they are also raising the bar. However, it is not possible to say the same for sales figures. It seems that the rise in the market, which was thought to continue forever, has come to an end. Global smartphone production fell to 272 million units in Q2 2023, the lowest quarterly level in 10 years. Here are the details…

Vivo Dethroned by Transsion in Global Smartphone Production

The global economic recession is gradually taking effect around the world. The frenzy of spending and buying everything possible that began during the Covid-19 lockdown period is being replaced by policies of saving and belt-tightening. Unfortunately, even entry-level smartphones, which offer more than enough performance today, are among the sectors most affected by this saving. According to TrendForce’s report, global smartphone production fell to 272 million units in Q2 2023, the lowest quarterly level in 10 years.

However, this did not slow down technology companies. While new players are emerging in the market, existing companies are also increasing their investments. For example, Chinese manufacturer Transsion, which makes smartphones under the TECNO, Infinix, and itel brands, surpassed Vivo to enter the global top 5 for the first time ever. Transsion’s high production output was driven by a combination of inventory replenishment, new product launches, and its entry into the mid-to-high-end market.

Another interesting development was the strong performance of Xiaomi and Oppo. Both companies saw their production increase in Q2, despite the overall decline in the market. Xiaomi benefited from a strategic depletion of channel inventory and the allure of new product launches, while Oppo rode the wave of rebounding demand in Southeast Asia and other regions.

The global smartphone market is facing a number of challenges, but there are still some bright spots. Transsion’s rise is a sign that there is still room for growth in the market, and the strong performance of Xiaomi and Oppo shows that there is still demand for smartphones, even in a tough economic environment. Although there is still hope, the future of the market is uncertain for now.

RELATED:

• Cheap Gaming Monitors 2023 – Dell, AOC, Samsung & More
• Huawei Mate 60 Pro will not launch in global markets: Official
• Foldable Smartphone Sales in China increased by 72% this year, with Huawei leading the…
• Indian Smartphone Market Sees a Significant Shift In 2023, Premium Segment Thrives
• Is This the End of Smart Projectors? Xiaomi is Not the Market Leader and…

(via/source)

The post Vivo No Longer at the Top: Transsion Surpasses Chinese Smartphone Maker in Global Market Share appeared first on Gizmochina.

India is one of the world’s top tech markets. Many brands compete fiercely there to sell more products and outdo their rivals. Some companies even set up India-focused sub-brands, like Realme and Poco, to get ahead in the race. But India’s significance isn’t just about sales numbers. Big companies like Apple, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Qualcomm use India for manufacturing. This seems to work well for the country. Because in 2022, India assembled 2 billion smartphones, and 98% of them were for local customers. Here are the details…

India Emerges as a Global Tech Powerhouse

Before we talk about India’s achievements in smartphones, let’s understand what a current account deficit is. It’s when a country spends more on buying things from other countries than it earns from selling its own stuff to them. This can be risky. One way to fix this is to make more things, especially high-value tech products. And that’s exactly what India did with smartphones.

India recognizes the importance of technology and has been investing in it for a long time. The country is keen on attracting foreign investors and offers various incentives to lure manufacturers. After the shift of production from China due to Covid-19, India’s position in Asia has become even stronger. Now, it’s clear that the country has become a major player in the global smartphone market.

According to recent data from Counterpoint, from 2014 to 2022, India made and sent out 2 billion of its own smartphones. Moreover, it took India just two years to assemble the last 500 million smartphones This big step matches the “Make in India” plan that started in 2014 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The change is huge. In 2014, only 19% of phones were made in India, but by 2022, it was 98%.

Production is still increasing. We often tell you about technology companies investing in India. For example, we recently mentioned that Foxconn, which makes iPhones for Apple, will invest $600 million in India and create 13,000 new jobs. As such events increase, production in the country is expected to grow even more.

RELATED:

• RED MAGIC 8 Pro vs Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate: Specs…
• Mahindra e-Alfa Super Electric Rickshaw with practicality and utility launched in India
• Indian Smartphone Market Sees a Significant Shift In 2023, Premium Segment Thrives
• India’s laptop and tablet import restriction will be effective from November
• Foxconn Invests $600 Million, Creates 13,000 New Jobs in India to Expand Production Facilities

(via)

The post “Make in India” Pays Off: How India’s Smartphone Manufacturing Industry Grew 14 Times in 8 Years appeared first on Gizmochina.

The latest IDC Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker has shown that the smartphone market in China fell 2.1% in 2023. The report indicates that 65.7 million smartphones were shipped in China in the second quarter of 2023. This was a slight decline of 2.1% from the figures for the same period in 2022.

Overall, the Chinese market saw 130.9 million shipments in the first half of 2023, which is a 7.3% year-on-year decline. This indicates sluggish consumer demands even with higher discount efforts by vendors and e-commerce platforms. This also resulted in a 5% dip in sales during the “618” Online Shopping Festival. It is expected that the challenging business environment will improve within the second half of 2023.

Former global heavyweight brand Huawei retained a top 5 position, jointly tied with Xiaomi. The brand has continued to serenade the market with a raft of impressive product offerings and marketing. The Huawei Mate X3 foldable and Huawei P60 series has been highly successful in the market. Huawei and Apple were the only vendors with positive YoY growth among the top 5 brands. It is believed that the discount regime for the Apple iPhone 14 series positively impacted the demand of the products. The leading brands were Oppo, Vivo, Honor, Apple, and the joint fifth brands of Huawei and Xiaomi.

The latest IDC quarterly report on the Chinese smartphone market points to a mixed bag for the leading smartphone brands. While Apple and Huawei have recorded positive growth, the other brands recorded a flat or declining performance. The business environment could be one of the major factors but other factors could also be impacting shipments.

RELATED:

(source)

The post Latest IDC report shows China’s smartphone market declined by 2.1% in Q2 2023 appeared first on Gizmochina.

OPPO has today officially announced that the company will be launching its new K-series smartphone, dubbed OPPO K11, in its home market China on 25th July.

The launch event for the OPPO K11 for the Chinese market will take place on 25th July at 02:30 PM local time. The phone has already passed 3C certification at reportedly carries model number PJC3.

Based on the leaks so far, the OPPO K11 features a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a centered hole-punch design and an under-display fingerprint sensor. The display is expected to have a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Under the hood, the device will come powered by an octa-core processor clocked at 2.7GHz, which is most likely to be the Qualcomm Snapdragon 782G.

In the camera department, the phone has a triple-camera setup on the back that includes a 50MP primary Sony IMX890 sensor, an 8MP secondary sensor, and a 2MP tertiary sensor. On the front side, there will be a 16MP snapper for taking selfies and video calling.

The smartphone will run the Android operating system with the company’s own ColorOS custom user interface. The device is expected to be powered by a 4,870mAh battery and has support for 100W fast charging.

RELATED:

• Oppo Pad Air 2 bags certification in China, launch likely in August
• Oppo Reno 10 Pro 5G first impressions: Leading the pack with a telephoto camera in its price segment
• Baseus AeQur series G10 TWS earphones with support for dual-mode connections launched in China
• Mysterious Realme 5G smartphone spotted on FCC with 5000mAh battery & SuperVOOC charging
• Oppo A58 4G spotted on Bluetooth SIG website, launch imminent

The post OPPO K11 smartphone confirmed to officially launch in China on July 25 appeared first on Gizmochina.

Remember the days when feature phones ruled the mobile industry? They had their flaws, but one thing we loved about them was the ability to swap out the batteries when they ran out of juice. However, as smartphones took center stage, removable batteries became a thing of the past. But wait, recent developments, including the proposed legislation by the European Union (EU), are reigniting the debate about removable batteries in smartphones.

Let’s dive in and explore why smartphone makers moved away from removable batteries and why we’re starting to question that decision.

Why the EU Wants to Removable Batteries on Smartphones

The EU aims to promote environmental sustainability through its proposed legislation. It believes that non-removable batteries contribute to electronic waste, as many devices are discarded solely due to battery aging. By reintroducing removable batteries, the EU hopes to extend the lifespan of smartphones, reduce waste, and align the industry with green principles.

Some of the key points mentioned in the EU Ecodesign Requirements for smartphones are as follows:

• Smartphone makers, importers, or their authorized representatives are required to make available to professional repairers certain spare parts, including necessary fasteners (if the originals can’t be reused). This should be for a time period starting one month after the phone is introduced to the market until 5 years after it’s no longer sold.
• These entities should provide professional repairers access to repair and maintenance information for certain parts. This should start from one month after the phone is released to the market until 7 years after it stops being sold.

They also need to make sure that the battery can be replaced easily:

• The replacement should be doable without any tools, or with tools supplied with the phone or the spare part, or basic tools.
• The battery replacement should be possible to carry out in any typical use environment.
• The process should be simple enough for a regular person to do it.

If Removable Batteries Were Good, Why Did Smartphone Makers Remove Them?

When smartphones started entering the market, manufacturers sought to prioritize sleek and seamless designs, pushing the boundaries of technology. Removable batteries seemed like a relic from the past as fast charging technologies emerged as a viable alternative. After all, who needs to swap batteries when you can charge your phone at lightning speed?

The convenience of quick charging and sleek design seemed to outweigh the need for removable batteries. Not to mention, added features such as IP rating was made possible with non-removable parts.

However, it’s time to take a fresh look at the benefits and drawbacks associated with removable batteries.

Advantages of Removable Batteries in Smartphones:

Let’s not dismiss the advantages that removable batteries offer:

Flexibility and convenience: Remember the days when you could carry spare batteries and swap them out whenever your phone ran out of power? That was the epitome of convenience, giving you uninterrupted usage.

Extended device lifespan: The ability to replace aging batteries breathed new life into smartphones, allowing you to keep using your trusted companion for longer.

Cost-effectiveness: Instead of shelling out big bucks to replace the entire phone, you could simply purchase a new battery, saving you some serious cash.

Reduced downtime: No more waiting for your phone to charge or sending it off for repair. With a spare battery, you could easily swap it in and continue using your phone while the other battery charged or was being fixed.

Disadvantages of Removable Batteries in Smartphones:

As much as we may love the convenience, there are some downsides to removable batteries:

Design constraints: The sleek and slim designs we’ve grown accustomed to could be compromised if smartphone manufacturers had to accommodate removable batteries. Who wants a bulky phone in their pocket?

Compromised durability: Adding removable batteries often meant compromising the water and dust resistance capabilities of smartphones. After all, extra seals and covers were required, which could affect their overall durability.

Reduced battery capacity: Making space for removable batteries often resulted in smaller battery capacities. That means shorter battery life between charges, and nobody wants that!

Potential for damage or loss: Swapping out batteries might have been convenient, but it also introduced the risk of mishandling, accidental drops, and misplacing the batteries. Losing a battery could leave you stranded and frustrated.

Shockproof: Non-removable batteries provide added safety in fast-charging smartphones, as they are integrated and designed to withstand the high voltage and power associated with fast charging.

Conclusion

The debate surrounding removable batteries in smartphones is a complex one, with valid arguments on both sides. While removable batteries offer advantages such as flexibility, extended device lifespan, cost-effectiveness, and reduced downtime, they also present drawbacks related to design constraints, compromised durability, reduced battery capacity, and potential damage or loss.

Nonetheless, the smartphone industry has evolved, and non-removable batteries now provide sleek designs, enhanced durability, larger capacities, and compatibility with fast-charging technologies. Furthermore, advancements in battery life and charging technologies have mitigated the concerns that removable batteries once addressed.

The proposed legislation by the EU highlights the importance of environmental sustainability, as removable batteries can extend the lifespan of devices and reduce electronic waste. However, it is essential to consider the progress made with non-removable batteries and their ability to meet the demands of modern users while minimizing drawbacks.

What do you think? Do you want your next smartphone to have a removable battery?

RELATED:

• Best Mid-Range Tablets of 2023 – Apple, OnePlus, Lenovo & More
• Best Smartphones of 2023 – Samsung, Xiaomi, Apple & More
• Best Mid-Range Smartphones of 2023 – OPPO, Moto, Samsung & More
• Best Budget Tablets of 2023 – Xiaomi, Lenovo, Nokia

The post Quick Take: Are Smartphones with Removable Batteries a Good Idea in 2023? appeared first on Gizmochina.

A team of researchers from Koç University in Turkey has developed a tiny sensor that can monitor the freshness of protein-rich foods like meat, chicken, and fish in real time and send the data to your smartphone. The device has the potential to revolutionize the way we monitor and manage food freshness. Here are the details…

Researchers from Koç University Develop a Revolutionary Sensor for Real-Time Food Freshness Monitoring

The world is addicted to buying things. We buy too much food, clothes, electronics, and all the other things that we don’t need. This is a problem because it wastes resources and contributes to climate change. For example, every year, one-third of all food produced globally is lost or wasted. That’s about 1.4 billion tons of food.

In addition to the economic and environmental costs, food waste also poses a health risk. When food spoils, it can produce harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Food poisoning can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms. In some cases, food poisoning can be fatal. It is not always easy to tell when food has spoiled. Some foods, such as meat and poultry, can look and smell fine even when they are contaminated with harmful bacteria.

Until now, it was difficult for ordinary people to detect the decay of food. However, a new sensor developed by researchers at Koç University makes it easy for anyone to do. The sensor is small and planned to be affordable, and it can be attached to any food container. When the sensor detects that food is starting to spoil, it sends a notification to your smartphone. This way, you can always know when food is no longer safe to eat.

The researchers tested their sensor in packaged chicken breasts and rib steak to demonstrate the real-world application of the device. The meat samples were stored in different conditions: in a freezer, in a refrigerator, and at room temperature. Over three days, the capacitance of the sensor monitoring the room-temperature samples went up, indicating that biogenic amines were being released from the meat as it spoiled. This, say the researchers, indicates that the sensor efficiently detected spoilage.

“We have tested the sensor using chicken and beef samples stored under various storage conditions to demonstrate a real-life application for the sensor,” the researchers said. “The sensor presented a reliable performance, such that the spoilage of foods was predicted during three-day measurement by instantaneous sensor readings using a mobile phone. On the third day, the room-temperature-stored samples showed a 700% change in sensor response compared with the samples stored in a freezer, which proves the sensor operation for the detection of spoilage.”

The new sensor is still in the early stages of development, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we monitor and manage food freshness. If it is successful, it could help to reduce food waste and improve food safety worldwide.

RELATED:

• Best Gaming Mouse in 2023 under INR 1000
• India to Become World’s Largest Smartphone Market Soon, Apple to Help
• Unihertz Jelly Star miniature smartphone running Android 13 launched
• Samsung W24 & W24 Flip luxury foldable smartphones visit 3C certification website
• Get Xiaomi Civi 3 Disney Limited Edition smartphone at Giztop

(via)

The post Goodbye Food Waste: A Smartphone-Enabled Sensor That Can Detect Food Spoiled Before It’s Too Late appeared first on Gizmochina.

In a peculiar and funny incident at a phone repair shop in Miami Gardens, a suspect attempted to conceal his identity by wearing a cardboard box on his head while carrying out a robbery. However, his attempt quickly fell apart when the box slipped off as he smashed glass displays to steal iPhones, inadvertently exposing his identity. 

The store owner revealed that the thief made off with 19 iPhones and a substantial sum of $8,000 in cash. The total value of the stolen goods and cash amounted to an estimated $15,000, as reported in the news.

However, in a twist of events, the thief inadvertently revealed his identity during the robbery. Caught on surveillance footage, the suspect lifted the cardboard box covering his head in an attempt to gain a better view of the targeted phones he intended to steal. This unexpected act of self-exposure provided a crucial clue for law enforcement in their investigation.

According to the store’s owner, the incident occurred at approximately 4 a.m. on Saturday, prompting him to review the surveillance footage. Upon recognizing the suspect’s face in the video, the owner took it upon himself to conduct a thorough investigation within the shopping plaza vicinity where his establishment is situated.

Following the identification of the suspect’s face on the surveillance video, the vigilant shop owner launched an investigation within the shopping plaza premises, urging residents to report any sightings of the culprit. In a fortunate turn of events, a tip was received indicating that the perpetrator was present at a neighboring liquor store, casually socializing with friends. 

Reacting swiftly, the shop owner, wasted no time in notifying the Miami Gardens Police Department, leading to the prompt arrest of the individual involved.

Related:

• Apple’s latest iOS 17 drops support for iPhone 8 and iPhone X
• Apple’s new StandBy feature will turn Your iPhones into Bedside Displays
• iPhone 15 Tipped To Support 15W Wireless Charging Via Third-Party Qi2 Standard

(via)

The post Funny iPhone Robbery: Suspect Tries To Conceal Identity with Cardboard Box While Stealing iPhone appeared first on Gizmochina.

Kyocera smartphones are known for their durability. They are often used by people who work in demanding environments, such as construction workers and firefighters. The company used to be a minor but significant player in the smartphone market. However, as competition increased, the company struggled to find success. In response, tech giant changed its strategy. Here are the details…

Kyocera Statement Puts End to Rumors

Recently, there have been rumors that Kyocera is planning to completely overhaul its smartphone strategy. These rumors claimed that the Japanese company would focus only on premium models in the future. However, Kyocera has now clarified that this is not the case. Kyocera has said that it will be making some changes to its smartphone strategy, but these changes will not be as dramatic as the rumors have suggested. Instead, Kyocera will be adapting the strategies that it has used in North America to the global market.

“Kyocera refocused its North American wireless phone market strategy to emphasize business solutions several years ago, and our Japan-based parent company is now doing the same in the Japanese market. The rugged durability of a Kyocera smartphone remains attractive to many consumers, and consumers can continue to purchase our smartphones as they always have – through carriers such as Verizon, both in-store and online, and through the Kyocera website.“

Kyocera’s statement put an end to the rumors that the company was withdrawing from the rugged phone market. The rumors were based on a translation error from a Chinese source. As people who produce English content on the internet, we often use sources from all over the world. This includes sources from China, where English is not the first language. As a result, it is not uncommon for translation errors to occur.

In this case, the translation error led to the misunderstanding that Kyocera was withdrawing from the rugged phone market. However, Kyocera has since issued a statement clarifying that this is not the case. The company is committed to continuing to produce rugged phones, which are popular with users who need a durable device. We are glad that Kyocera has clarified the situation and will continue to produce rugged phones. These phones are an important option for users who need a device that can withstand harsh conditions.

RELATED:

• Xiaomi 13 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro Max: Specs Comparison
• Upcoming Smartphones: Oppo F23 5G, HTC U23 Pro, and more
• Oppo to soon launch a new smartphone with Snapdragon 695
• Economic Storm Shatters US Smartphone Shipments, But Apple Weathers the Tempest
• The Huawei P60 Pro: The new king of smartphone cameras according to DxOMark

(via)

The post Official Statement: Will Kyocera Cease the Production of Durable Smartphones? appeared first on Gizmochina.

The competition in the smartphone market is continuing at full speed. Tech giants such as Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, and Oppo are fiercely competing to sell more products and expand their market shares globally. So, what is the current state of this race? Counterpoint, often featured on Gizmochina for their industry reports, recently published the US smartphone shipments report for Q1 2023. According to this report, the ongoing decline in sales worldwide has continued in the US as well.Here are the details…

US Smartphone Shipments Decline in Q1 2023 Amid High Inflation, Inventory Correction; Apple Share Up

The technology world has recently been grappling with a serious economic crisis. During the pandemic, increased demand caused sales to skyrocket. This situation led to a significant increase in revenues, causing many companies to grow excessively. Of course, the pandemic didn’t last forever, and after the normalization process, demand for consumer electronics decreased. With the addition of the global inflation increase, interest in non-essential products declined for many people. This situation naturally affected smartphone sales as well.

Smartphone shipments in the US experienced a 17% YoY decline in Q1 2023. The drop in shipments affected all major manufacturers, despite a strong first quarter performance in the previous year. Amid this decline, Apple managed to increase its market share to 53% in Q1 2023, up from 49% in Q1 2022. Research Analyst Matthew Orf attributed the decline to inflation and an uncertain economic outlook, which has caused consumers to hold off on new device purchases.

Despite the overall market weakness, some niche categories such as foldable smartphones are expected to perform well. Additionally, when looking at specific models, it is possible to say that the sales of models like iPhone 14 and Samsung Galaxy S23 are in good shape. The real surprise, however, is the success of the Galaxy A14 5G model in the USA. Based on this, it is possible to say that entry-level phones are just as important as flagship models.

RELATED:

• Best 75-inch TV in 2023 – LG, TCL, Samsung & More
• Apple’s Q1 2023 Mac Shipments Plummet 40.5%: A Tough Blow for the Tech Giant
• Apple, Samsung, and Other Tech Giants Experience Decline in Wearables Shipments During Q4 2022
• Apple Trumps Over Samsung & Sharp in Smartphone Shipments for Q4 2022
• Worldwide Smartphone Shipments To Decline In 2023: IDC

(source)

The post Economic Storm Shatters US Smartphone Shipments, But Apple Weathers the Tempest appeared first on Gizmochina.

The competition between Android and iOS continues at full speed. On one hand, there’s Apple, and on the other, there are other manufacturers including Samsung, Xiaomi, and Oppo, all fiercely competing to capture the highest market share. Following this intense battle brings excitement to many technology enthusiasts. However, according to Canalys’ latest report, things are not going well for both sides. In the first quarter of 2023, Apple Inc and its Android competitors experienced a decline in sales in China. Here are the details…

Q1 Smartphone Sales in China Decline for Apple and Android Competitors

China is the world’s most populous country. As a result, securing a leading position in such a massive market is the dream of every smartphone manufacturer. Both Apple and other Android smartphone manufacturers are working diligently to sell more devices in the country. However, looking at the situation in the first quarter of 2023, both Apple and Android brands experienced a decline.

Apple, the top-selling brand in the first quarter, secured a 20% market share. However, its overall shipments in China fell to 13.3 million units, a 3% decrease compared to the same period in 2022. Other leading brands in the market also saw a decline in sales, causing total smartphone shipments to drop by 11% year-on-year, amounting to 67.2 million units. This marked the lowest quarterly total since 2013.

Although Apple remained the best-selling brand during this period, its total market share fell by 3 percentage points compared to the previous year. Android brands Oppo and Vivo, which follow Apple as the second and third best-selling brands, experienced shipment reductions of 10% and 7%, respectively.

Honor and Xiaomi Corp, companies that specialize in more affordable phone models, faced even more significant declines in their sales. Shipments for these companies dropped by 35% and 20%, respectively, suggesting that consumers were hesitant to make phone purchases, even at lower price points.

China’s GDP grew by 4.5% in the first quarter, surpassing expectations. Policymakers in Beijing are currently working on strategies to further stimulate demand. Despite this, economists anticipate that the majority of Chinese consumers and businesses will continue to spend cautiously throughout the year.

RELATED:

• HarmonyOS is neither Android nor iOS: Father of HarmonyOS
• “Switch to Android” iOS App Announced by Google, Here’s How Users Can Transfer All…
• Tim Cook blames app side-loading for Android having more malware than iOS
• Apple’s Sacrifice for Innovation: Popular Feature to Disappear on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max
• Qualcomm’s new upscaling tech will potentially boost Android games to 4K 60fps

(via)

The post Smartphone Sales in China Decline for Apple and Android appeared first on Gizmochina.

A couple of days back, Honor announced its latest smartphone in its home country China, dubbed Honor x50i. As the name indicates, the phone is a successor to the Honor x40i which was launched last year.

The Honor x50i is now available for purchase in the Chinese market. The base model with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage is priced at 1,399 yuan (~$203) while the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage model costs 1,699 yuan (~$245).

The Honor X50i features a 6.73-inch IPS LCD panel with a punch-hole cutout on the top center of the screen. The display comes with support for a Full HD+ resolution of 2388 x 1080 pixels, a refresh rate of 90Hz, and a 93.6 percent screen-to-body ratio.

Under the hood, the device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor, coupled with up to 12 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and up to 256 GB of UFS 2.2 storage. It also supports up to 7 GB of virtual RAM and is equipped with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security.

In the camera department, the phone has a dual-camera setup on the back that includes a 100-megapixel primary camera sensor and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. On the front side, there’s an 8-megapixel snapper for taking selfies and video calling.

The Honor x50i smartphone runs the Android 13 operating system out-of-the-box with the company’s own Magic UI 6.1 on top. It is powered by a 4,500mAh battery that supports 35W fast charging.

RELATED:

• Honor Magic 3 & 4 Phones Receive Game-Changing Camera Upgrades
• Microsoft Releases Vibrant Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 Youth Edition in China for 999 Yuan
• Honor Magic 5 Pro goes on sale in the UK with offers & freebies
• China Tests Ultra-fast Wireless Internet with 300Gbps Download Speed, Sparking 6G Rumors
• Honor announces MagicBook 14 2023 laptop with a 13th-Gen Intel Core i5 processor

The post Honor x50i smartphone goes on sale in China; pricing starts at 1,399 yuan ($203) appeared first on Gizmochina.

Smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives. People of all ages, from 7 to 70, depend on these devices for communication and everyday tasks. n line with this, many of us purchase a new smartphone every 1-2 years. Smartphones have been quite successful in nearly every segment over the past few years, and the differences between old and new models are smaller than ever. Even though we know this, many of us still change phones often, with younger users upgrading to newer models even more quickly. Here are the details…

Younger Apple users upgrade their iPhones more frequently than older customers

According to a recent study by the Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) on Apple users, younger people tend to upgrade their iPhones to newer models more frequently than older customers. For example, 45% of users aged 18 to 24 had their previous phone for less than two years, which is over three times the rate of those aged 65 and older. 65% of customers aged 65 or older kept their previous phone for at least three years, a figure more than 2.5 times greater than the percentage observed in the 18 to 24 age group.

CIRP’s study also found that 40% to 45% of consumers between 18 to 54 years of age retired a phone that was under two years old, and 21% to 27% of consumers aged 55 or older gave up a phone they held for three years or longer. In fact, this situation is not too surprising. As many of us know from personal experience and observing our close circles, young people spend more time on their smartphones. Every day, millions of people consume and create content on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

These trends, along with many others, push young people to change their phones even when they might not need to. Brands, aware of this, target young users with their advertising. Another possible reason is the interest many young people, including the editor who wrote this news and the readers, have in technology. However, it wouldn’t be accurate to say we are solely responsible for driving up these numbers.

RELATED:

• Redmi Note 12s vs Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G: Specs Comparison
• Apple iPhones owners are being locked out of their stolen phones by thieves
• Xiaomi 13 Ultra Unboxing & Hands on: Wow, a camera able to make a call!
• Apple may bring another Periscope Lens supplier for its iPhone 15 Pro Max
• Realme 11 5G appears on Bureau of Indian Standards ahead of…

(via)

The post Study Shows Younger iPhone Users Upgrade to New Models More Quickly appeared first on Gizmochina.

Coolpad Cool 30, a new smartphone from the Chinese brand, is now available for pre-order in the company’s home market through online marketplace JD.com.

The phone comes in three options — 4GB + 64GB, 4GB + 128GB, and 6GB + 128GB, costing 699 yuan (~$102), 799 yuan (~$117), and 899 yuan (~$131), respectively.

The smartphone can be pre-ordered with a deposit of just 1 yuan, and those who pre-order the device will get a 100 yuan (~$15) discount on the final payment.

Coming to the specifications, the Coolpad Cool 3 features a 6.51-inch LCD panel with a screen resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels and a standard refresh rate of 60Hz. Under the hood, the device is powered by the MediaTek G85 processor, coupled with up to 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage.

In the camera department, there’s a 48-megapixel primary camera sensor and a 13-megapixel secondary sensor on the back panel, along with an LED flash. There’s also a 5-megapixel front-facing snapper for taking selfies and video calling.

The device runs the Android operating system out-of-the-box with the company’s own Cool OS 2.0 custom user interface on top. It is powered by a 4,500mAh battery and has a power-saving mode to extend the battery life.

RELATED:

• Coolpad Grand View 40s Launched with Dimensity 700 5G Chipset
• Acer Hummingbird Fun 2023 thin and light notebook with Intel Core i5-1335U processor launched in China
• Coolpad Cool 20s launched with 90Hz display, Dimensity 700, and 50MP camera
• ZMI GaN Charger 67W with a 2C1A interface and eight protection mechanisms released in China
• Teased Xiaomi 13 Ultra Accessory Could Transform the Smartphone Into a Real Camera

The post Coolpad Cool 30 budget smartphone now up for pre-order in China; price starts at 699 yuan ($102) appeared first on Gizmochina.

We’ve all had that one experience where we had been talking about something that we wished to buy (it could be a new laptop, a smartphone, or whatever), and not long after, we see advertisements of the products that were in the conversation. This has led to many to believe that our electronic products like smartphones, tablets, or smart speakers could be spying on us. But is that really the case? Let’s find out.

This phenomenon isn’t just exclusive to gadgets and could even include certain medicines, furniture, and much more. Thus, when you see an ad online talking about a certain product (which you need) going on discount at a store near you, one would naturally assume that your very own smartphone is spying on you. However, a recent test from the UK’s Daily Mail has suggested that this might not be the case.

The test was conducted by setting up a new Google account on a Samsung Galaxy smartphone that was factory reset to ensure that this is how the device would function straight out of the box. For the test, a 22 year old named Robin was created and a fake Facebook account was also made for this fictitious persona. Following this, daily Mail talked about the names of products nearby for two days straight to see if this impacted the advertisement that were being displayed online through the Galaxy handset.

However, the test found that the smartphone wasn’t eavesdropping on any of the conversation around its vicinity since it did not receive any online ads that were related to said products. In other words, your device is probably not listening to your conversations and is likely tracking your activity based on the products you search for or click on online. Jordan Schroeder, the person that head’s the firm’s network security , also added that OEMs don’t need to listen in on your conversation since there are plenty of other ways of collecting the data that they need from your smartphone.

To further prove this point, Daily Mail used the fake Robin’s account on Google to search for ‘luxury car’ and ‘expensive bed’ using Google Assistant and even Google Search. Follow this, the ads targeted online were all related to cars from high end brands as well as bed companies. Google took it a step further and also created a webpage with brands that Robin want to potentially check out.

For those interested, you can find your personalized page by going to myadcenter.google.com. This is the webpage that basically compiles all the topics and brands that you have been interested in. Keep in mind that this feature won’t work for those who have their personalized ads switched off. One can even customize the settings to receive lesser or even more advertisements related to particular topics or specific brands from the My Ad Center website.

RELATED:

• 3 Technologies that Will Make Smartphones Thinner in the Next 5 Years
• AI & Smartphones – An Ongoing Revolution in the world of Mobile Technology
• Power Off, Immunity On: How Less Time with Smartphone Benefits Your Health
• Here’s Probably Why You Should Avoid Buying Samsung ACs in India
• Best Electric Bikes With The Fastest Speed in 2023
• Best Noise Cancelling Headphones 2023

(Source)

The post Your smartphone isn’t eavesdropping on you talking about certain products for targeted ads appeared first on Gizmochina.