Category: All News

  • Xiaomi Redmi Smartphone Leaked Ahead of Spring Release

    Xiaomi Redmi Smartphone Leaked Ahead of Spring Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is preparing to launch a new mid-range smartphone under its Redmi brand, identified as ‘25062RN2D’.
    2. The device has been spotted at the EEC and FCC with three different regional versions, expected to be unveiled next month.
    3. The smartphone is likely to run on HyperOS 2.0 and support both 5G and Wi-Fi 6.
    4. Users may have options for 6 GB or 8 GB of RAM and either 128 GB or 256 GB of storage.
    5. Additional details about the device’s features remain unknown at this time.


    It seems like Xiaomi is getting ready to launch a new mid-range smartphone named under its Redmi brand. Just to remind you, the company unveiled the Redmi Turbo 4 Pro last month in China. Recently, Xiaomi updated the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus 5G (curr. $377 on Amazon) by adding a new Sand Gold color variant, which was released with some early discounts.

    New Device on the Horizon

    The device known as ‘25062RN2D’ appears to be a fresh addition that Xiaomi aims to sell in various markets. So far, it has been spotted at the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) with three different regional versions, although there is no generic global version yet. The model numbers suggest that Xiaomi plans to unveil them next month, but that timeline can change.

    Specifications and Features

    According to the information from the FCC, the 25062RN2D is likely to run on HyperOS 2.0 and will include a chipset that supports both 5G and Wi-Fi 6. Additionally, users might be able to choose between 6 GB or 8 GB of RAM and either 128 GB or 256 GB of storage. Unfortunately, details regarding other features of the 25062RN2D are still a mystery at this moment.

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  • New Xiaomi Poco and Redmi Smartphones Unveiled for Global Launch

    New Xiaomi Poco and Redmi Smartphones Unveiled for Global Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is preparing to launch the Poco F7 globally, which is a renamed Redmi Turbo 4 Pro.
    2. A more affordable version of the device is expected to be released by summer.
    3. The same device may also be marketed under the Redmi brand in specific regions.
    4. The Poco smartphone model has been certified by the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
    5. The budget option features a 6.9-inch display, a 4G-only chipset, a 6,000 mAh battery, and 33 W wired charging.


    In the last few weeks, there has been lots of signs showing that Xiaomi is getting ready to launch the Poco F7 globally. However, it seems that this renamed Redmi Turbo 4 Pro will be accompanied by a more affordable option, possibly arriving by summer. Furthermore, Xiaomi might also market the same device under its Redmi brand in certain regions.

    Unclear Naming

    At this moment, it’s not clear what Xiaomi will name these devices. Xiaomi has been seen certifying the 25078PC3EG with the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) in Russia and the 25078RA3EL with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. So far, the EEC has only disclosed that ‘25078PC3EG’ is a Poco smartphone, which one can guess from the ‘P’ after the digits in its model identifier.

    Design and Features

    In contrast, the FCC has uploaded a picture of 25078RA3EL, showing a v-shaped notch and a flat screen with somewhat thick bezels. This device is likely a budget option, and the FCC reports that the 25078RA3EL is equipped with a 4G-only chipset and a 6,000 mAh battery that allows for 33 W wired charging. Additionally, the device features a 6.9-inch display, making it a bit larger than the Poco C75 (currently $119.99 on Amazon) and other recent entry-level smartphones from Xiaomi.

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  • Capcom Removes Games for Windows Live from Street Fighter X Tekken

    Capcom Removes Games for Windows Live from Street Fighter X Tekken

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft ended Games for Windows Live in 2013, impacting PC games that relied on the service.
    2. Lost Planet 2 and other Capcom titles have dropped multiplayer support, frustrating players.
    3. Capcom is working on solutions to restore online features, but many players are still waiting.
    4. The discontinuation of online services raises concerns about preserving games that need online connectivity.
    5. Capcom’s updates suggest a possibility of reviving multiplayer features for affected Steam titles in the future.


    Publishers are still navigating the consequences of Microsoft ending Games for Windows Live. While recent Steam titles no longer depend on this online service, fans of Lost Planet 2 were taken aback by an unexpected change. The 2010 third-person shooter has officially dropped support for multiplayer. Similar updates were made for Street Fighter X Tekken and Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City by Capcom.

    A Brief History of Games for Windows Live

    Games for Windows Live was launched by Microsoft in 2007 to bring Xbox Live-like features to PC gaming. However, in 2013, the company announced its discontinuation, transitioning to the Xbox Network and Microsoft Store. Games that relied on GFWL continued to function for several years before publishers started to remove titles from Steam. Lost Planet 2 is particularly noteworthy because its multiplayer aspect is a core part of what makes the game enjoyable.

    Capcom’s Response to the Changes

    Capcom had already stopped the sale of affected games, but they suggested that a resolution was in the works. Gamers hoped that the publisher would switch online features to Steamworks. Resident Evil 5 received a similar update, but players of Lost Planet 2 and Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City are still waiting. In some instances, players have lost their local save data, erasing years of progress. Furthermore, prior methods to keep online play alive are no longer available.

    The Future of Online Gaming

    The collapse of Games for Windows Live brings attention to the issues of preserving games that depend on online connectivity. When companies shut down or servers go offline, these games risk becoming unplayable. With the growing popularity of the live-service model, there may be more issues on the horizon. Nonetheless, Capcom seems determined to resolve the issues with several of its Steam titles. Recent updates might hint at the potential return of these games to the marketplace with functional multiplayer features.

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  • Galaxy Z Flip 7 US Model to Feature Exynos SoC

    Galaxy Z Flip 7 US Model to Feature Exynos SoC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mixed reports about the Galaxy Z Flip7’s SoC indicate potential use of both Snapdragon and Exynos chips for different regions.
    2. Recent leaks suggest that the US version of the Galaxy Z Flip7 may be powered by the Exynos 2500 instead of the Snapdragon variant.
    3. Samsung’s decision to use its Exynos chip for the US model marks a departure from its usual practice of using Snapdragon processors in that market.
    4. Concerns about overheating with the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC may have influenced Samsung’s choice to use the Exynos chip.
    5. The official reveal of the Galaxy Z Flip7 is expected in July, with more details likely to emerge as the launch date approaches.


    There have been mixed messages about the System on Chip (SoC) in the forthcoming Galaxy Z Flip7. Some reports suggest that the global model will utilize a Snapdragon flagship SoC, while the Korean version will be equipped with an Exynos chip. However, recent leaks indicate that the US may actually receive a Galaxy Z Flip7 powered by the Exynos SoC.

    Recent Findings

    This info comes from a journalist associated with Smartprix and GizmoChina (as noted in their bio on X), who discovered that the latest firmware for the Galaxy Z Flip7 includes a processor labeled “S5E9955,” which is thought to correspond with the Exynos 2500. The firmware also indicates “USA,” implying that at least the US version of the device will feature the Exynos chip.

    Samsung’s Strategy

    Normally, Samsung reserves its Snapdragon processors for the US market; however, it seems that the Korean tech giant is opting for its own chip this time around. The last device that was released in the US with an Exynos chip was the Galaxy S24 FE (available on Amazon) in October 2024, which was powered by the Exynos 2400e.

    Concerns About Heating

    It’s possible that Samsung wishes to avoid potential overheating issues associated with the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, which was recently rumored to be in the US version of the phone. As noted with the Galaxy S25 Edge (via MrMobile on YouTube), maintaining a cool temperature with the SoC can be tricky in slim smartphones. Nonetheless, it remains uncertain whether the Exynos 2500 will perform any better in that regard. Additionally, the existence of a Snapdragon 8 Elite variant of the Galaxy Z Flip7 is still in question.

    There isn’t much longer to wait, as Samsung is anticipated to reveal the next generation of foldable devices in July. As the launch date nears, we should expect to see more details about these phones come to light.

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  • Elden Ring Nightreign Patch: Balance Adjustments Now Live

    Elden Ring Nightreign Patch: Balance Adjustments Now Live

    Key Takeaways

    1. Elden Ring: Nightreign is releasing on May 30 in the United States, with Patch 1.01 already available for download.
    2. Players must update to App Ver. 1.01 / Regulation Ver. 1.01.1 before starting the game.
    3. The patch includes troubleshooting tips for PC users, including verifying game file integrity and adjusting graphics settings for better performance.
    4. Early reviews for the game are mixed, with an 80 rating on OpenCritic; concerns include the lack of crossplay and limited multiplayer options.
    5. The game will be available globally on multiple platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X and S, and Xbox One.


    As Elden Ring: Nightreign gets ready to release on May 30 in the United States, FromSoftware has already rolled out Patch 1.01 for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox systems. While details on the specific changes are limited, the quick update demonstrates the studio’s ability to respond promptly to initial feedback.

    Important Patch Notes

    Players need to make sure they download the newest version (App Ver. 1.01 / Regulation Ver. 1.01.1) before starting the game on their devices.

    For those on PC, the official patch notes provide some troubleshooting tips for common launch and performance problems. If players run into starting errors, they should check the integrity of the game files by going to Steam’s Library > Properties > Installed Files > “Verify Integrity of Game Files.” Users facing frame rate drops while using the latest GPUs might see better performance by adjusting graphics settings or resolution and ensuring they have the latest drivers installed.

    Mixed Impressions from Reviewers

    After the review embargo was lifted yesterday, the co-op multiplayer spinoff has received a mix of early reviews. Currently, it holds an 80 rating on OpenCritic. Players have voiced their worries about the absence of crossplay and limitations in multiplayer options. It’s important to mention that these issues could potentially be resolved in an upcoming update.

    Elden Ring Nightreign is confirmed to launch globally on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X and S, and Xbox One.

    Publisher Information

    Bandai Namco has been actively involved in promoting this title, ensuring that players are aware of the latest updates and features.

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  • Tecno Pova Curve: Affordable 5G Smartphone with Curved Display

    Tecno Pova Curve: Affordable 5G Smartphone with Curved Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tecno launched the Pova Curve 5G, its slimmest 5G smartphone, featuring a 55° curved display and a thickness of just 7.5 mm.
    2. The phone has a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED screen with a 2436 x 1080 pixel resolution, a 144 Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of 1300 nits.
    3. Equipped with a dual rear camera system that includes a 64 MP primary lens and a 2 MP depth sensor, it is designed for solid photography.
    4. Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultimate processor, it offers up to 8 GB RAM and 128 GB internal storage, with no expansion option and runs on HiOS 15 based on Android 15.
    5. It features a 5,500 mAh battery with 45 W charging, various AI capabilities, and is priced starting at INR 15,999 ($187.12), available on Flipkart from June 5th.


    Tecno has launched its newest and slimmest 5G curved smartphone, the Pova Curve 5G, in India. A standout feature of this phone is its curved display, which has a 55° curvature. In terms of dimensions, the device is just 7.5 mm thick (0.29 inches) and weighs 188.5 grams (0.41 lbs). It boasts a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED screen with a resolution of 2436 x 1080 pixels, a refresh rate of 144 Hz, and a peak brightness of 1300 nits.

    Screen Protection and Water Resistance

    The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, but the phone only holds an IP64 rating. This indicates that it is not fully waterproof and offers protection mainly against dust and splashes. On the camera front, the Tecno Pova Curve 5G features a dual rear camera system, which includes a 64 MP 1/1.73-inch Sony IMX682 primary lens, alongside a 2 MP depth sensor, making it a solid choice for photography.

    Performance and Software

    Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultimate processor built on a 4 nm architecture. It comes with up to 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, but there is no option to expand the storage. The device runs on HiOS 15 based on Android 15 and Tecno has guaranteed just one significant OS update (to Android 16) and two years of security updates.

    Battery Life and AI Features

    The Pova Curve 5G is equipped with a robust 5,500 mAh battery that supports 45 W wired charging. Tecno has also secured TUV Rheinland certification for long lifespan charging, promising over 1,800 charging cycles. Moreover, this 5G-ready smartphone comes loaded with various AI features such as multilingual support, AI Auto Answer, AI Voiceprint Noise Suppression, and an AI Call Assistant that provides live translations and post-call summaries.

    Additional features of the device include an in-display fingerprint sensor, an IR sensor, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, and NFC capability.

    The Tecno Pova Curve 5G is offered in three color options: magic silver, neon cyan, and geek black. The starting price is INR 15,999 ($187.12) for the entry-level 6 GB + 128 GB model, while the higher-end 8 GB + 128 GB version is priced at INR 16,999 ($199). The phone will be available on Flipkart starting June 5th.

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  • Avalon Hill Reveals Details on Joe Manganiello’s HeroQuest Expansion

    Avalon Hill Reveals Details on Joe Manganiello’s HeroQuest Expansion

    Key Takeaways

    1. HeroQuest is experiencing a resurgence with new versions and expansions, including the accessible First Light starter kit and the exciting Jungles of Delthrak quest pack.

    2. Actor and dungeon master Joe Manganiello is collaborating with Avalon Hill to create the challenging Crypt of Perpetual Darkness expansion, which features a darker theme and high difficulty gameplay.

    3. The new quest pack includes unique artwork and card designs reminiscent of heavy metal album covers, enhancing the game’s visual appeal.

    4. Manganiello personalized the expansion by incorporating elements from his life, such as characters and locations inspired by his dog and favorite sandwich shop.

    5. The Crypt of Perpetual Darkness expansion will be available for pre-order and includes 10 quests, a metallic dragon mini, and other game components, with a full release set for July 15th.


    HeroQuest has been doing great lately, making a comeback with new versions and expansions. The First Light starter kit has made the game more accessible than ever, while new adventures like the Jungles of Delthrak quest pack keep the excitement alive for fans. Now, Avalon Hill is teaming up with actor and renowned dungeon master Joe Manganiello to introduce a darker and more challenging quest line.

    Joe Manganiello’s Journey

    Manganiello recently wrapped up filming for One Piece season 2, where he played the popular character ‘Mr. 0’ aka Crocodile. However, he’s also well-known in the tabletop gaming world. While he often plays D&D, his journey in tabletop roleplaying games started with HeroQuest. With this new expansion, he feels like he’s finally got the “job that [he] wanted as a kid.” In a recent press event, Manganiello and the Avalon Hill team discussed the exciting details of the next chapter in HeroQuest.

    The Dark Adventure Awaits

    The upcoming quest pack is named Crypt of Perpetual Darkness and exudes heavy metal vibes right from the start. The box features HeroQuest’s classic black and gold design, but the central artwork stands out with its glowing green colors. Similarly, the cards are eye-catching and have a unique style compared to other HeroQuest expansions. Many of them resemble album covers for a heavy metal band, complete with intricate, band-like lettering.

    In terms of gameplay, players should be aware of the expansion’s challenging design, as this quest pack is one of the most difficult yet. There are house rules that could help beginners, like starting with 100 gold, but the Crypt of Perpetual Darkness is primarily tailored for experienced players. The Avalon Hill team even recommends shuffling potions back into the game at the beginning of each session to assist seasoned players in making it to the end. Manganiello mentioned that he prefers a high difficulty level, stating, “When your players are scared… it means they care.”

    Personal Touches in the Game

    Manganiello’s gaming background not only contributed to the game’s challenge but also made the Crypt of Perpetual Darkness expansion uniquely his own. Some of the locations and characters are inspired by his real life. For instance, there’s an enemy named Bubelexia, which is derived from his dog, Bubbles. An imprisoned elf named Vander is based on one of Manganiello’s brother’s characters, while a tavern keeper named Toni is modeled after a woman who works at Manganiello’s favorite sandwich shop in Pittsburgh. “There’s an EU in my mind’s eye with these characters,” he explained.

    The quests in the Crypt of Perpetual Darkness will demand a lot of teamwork and strategic planning. Manganiello took inspiration from games and stories that feature impossible tasks, like Dragon Lance and the dragon Smaug from The Hobbit. There are also numerous easter eggs, shortcuts, and special items to discover. One example he shared was a helpful little mouse that can give your party a tactical edge, provided they are patient and clever. There are several routes to finish the adventure, leading to a climactic battle against an evil dragon.

    Pre-order Now!

    Originally, the Crypt of Perpetual Darkness was only available to those who supported the HeroQuest relaunch. However, this summer, everyone will have the opportunity to dive into a new HeroQuest adventure. The expansion will include 10 epic quests, a high-quality metallic black dragon mini, 8 black dice, 1 pad of character sheets, 20 foil-embellished game cards, and 2 cardboard tile sheets. Remember, you’ll need the base game to play, but due to its high difficulty, starting with First Light might be a good idea if you haven’t played HeroQuest in a while.

    You can now pre-order the game on Amazon. Alternatively, you can wait until the full release on July 15th to grab it from your local game store.


  • Vivo Pad5: Gaming Tablet with 144Hz Display & Dimensity 9300+

    Vivo Pad5: Gaming Tablet with 144Hz Display & Dimensity 9300+

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vivo has launched the Pad5, expanding its Android tablet lineup shortly after the Pad SE and Pad5 Pro.
    2. The Pad5 features a 12.1-inch display with a 7.1:5 aspect ratio, 2,800 x 1,968 resolution, 144 Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of 900 nits.
    3. The tablet is built with an aluminum frame, weighs 590 g, and has dimensions of 266 x 192 x 6.62 mm.
    4. Powered by LPDDR5X RAM and a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset, it competes with Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S10 Plus.
    5. The device includes a 10,000 mAh battery with 44 W wired charging and a significant heat dissipation system.


    Vivo has broadened its lineup of Android tablets just a little over a month after introducing the Pad SE and Pad5 Pro in its home base. This time, the brand has introduced the Pad5, which shares a lot of components with the already available iQOO Pad 5.

    Design and Display Features

    Constructed from an aluminum frame, the Vivo Pad5 weighs 590 g and has dimensions of 266 x 192 x 6.62 mm. It features a 12.1-inch screen that sports a rather unique 7.1:5 aspect ratio and boasts a native resolution of 2,800 x 1,968 pixels. Vivo claims that the display also offers a refresh rate of 144 Hz and can reach peak brightness levels of up to 900 nits. To support all of this, it comes with a robust 10,000 mAh battery that can charge at 44 W via wired connections.

    Performance and Competition

    On the performance side, the device is powered by LPDDR5X RAM alongside a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset. In this regard, the Pad5 competes directly with Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S10 Plus, currently priced at $849.99 on Amazon, which has been available since last October. Vivo also highlights a significant 34,200 mm² heat dissipation system and mentions the ability to use remote desktop features with either a PC or a Mac. At this moment, Vivo has only released information for China with the following prices:

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  • Realme Neo7 Turbo Launch: 144Hz Android Flagship Under $300

    Realme Neo7 Turbo Launch: 144Hz Android Flagship Under $300

    Key Takeaways

    1. Realme Neo7 Turbo competes with flagship devices like Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro and OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition, powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9400e chip.
    2. It features a 6.8-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 6,500 nits, ideal for outdoor use.
    3. The smartphone has a large 7,200mAh battery with 100W fast charging but lacks wireless charging capabilities.
    4. Camera setup includes a 50MP main camera with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide lens, but the selfie camera is less impressive at 16MP.
    5. Priced at 1,700 yuan (around $237) for the base model with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, it sits between competitors in terms of cost.


    Realme has introduced the Neo7 Turbo to compete with other new flagship Android devices like the Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro and OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition, powered by the latest MediaTek Dimensity 9400e chip.

    Impressive Display

    This new smartphone boasts a stunning 6.8-inch 1.5K AMOLED display, making it the largest in its category. It also promises quick responsiveness with a 144Hz refresh rate, which is quite impressive.

    Realme has equipped this device with a remarkable peak brightness of 6,500 nits, although its overall brightness is capped at 1,800 nits. This makes it suitable for outdoor use and bright conditions.

    Battery and Charging Capabilities

    The Neo7 Turbo features the biggest battery among its competitors, coming in at 7,200mAh, and it supports rapid charging at 100W. However, this impressive spec contributes to the phone’s thickness, measuring 8.6mm. Despite its robust design, like its rivals from Xiaomi and OnePlus, it lacks wireless charging capabilities.

    This absence is unfortunate, especially considering the innovative design of the Turbo’s rear panel, which could have benefited from such a feature.

    Camera Specifications

    In terms of design, Realme has opted for a familiar camera hump style similar to its Neo7-series. The device incorporates a 50MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), which is expected for the Ace 5 Racing Edition, along with a potentially better 8MP ultrawide-angle lens.

    However, the Neo7 Turbo is unlikely to outshine the Civi 5 Pro’s 16MP selfie camera, which is considered quite standard.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Neo7 Turbo is priced between the Civi 5 Pro and the Racing Edition, starting at 1,700 yuan (approximately $237) for the base variant that includes 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. This pricing is aided by ongoing subsidies in China.

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  • Vivo Unveils Affordable Slim Power Bank with Built-In Cable

    Vivo Unveils Affordable Slim Power Bank with Built-In Cable

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo PB2531 power bank has a battery capacity of 10,000 mAh, capable of recharging most smartphones about two times.
    2. It features dual charging capability with an extra USB-C port, allowing two devices to be charged simultaneously, and supports 33 W fast charging.
    3. The power bank is compatible with multiple charging protocols, including PD 3.0, QC 2.0, and PPS, making it versatile for various devices.
    4. Safety measures are included to ensure a safe and steady charging experience, and it comes with a lithium-ion polymer internal battery pack.
    5. The power bank is priced at CNY 129 (approximately $18) and is currently available in China, with no global release date announced yet.


    Vivo has rolled out several new gadgets in China, one of which is the PB2531 power bank. This portable charger boasts a battery capacity of 10,000 mAh, which should be sufficient for recharging most smartphones approximately two times. It comes with an integrated cable, making it slim and compact, thus ideal for travel.

    Dual Charging Capability

    The fresh Vivo power bank also features an extra USB-C port, allowing it to charge two devices simultaneously. Additionally, this portable charger supports 33 W fast charging. According to the company, this capability allows the device to charge the iPhone 16 to 58% in just 30 minutes, and the X200 to 48% in the same duration.

    Versatile Charging Protocols

    The power bank supports a wide variety of charging protocols, such as PD 3.0, QC 2.0, and PPS. This extensive compatibility means that it should work well with most devices, even low-powered accessories like smartwatches.

    Another notable feature of the Vivo 33 W power bank is its safety measures. Vivo claims that these protective features will ensure a safe and steady charging experience. The portable charger also comes in three color choices and is equipped with a lithium-ion polymer internal battery pack.

    Pricing and Availability

    In terms of pricing, the power bank was launched in China at CNY 129, which is approximately $18. Vivo has not yet announced when the 33 W power bank will be available globally, but it may make its international debut alongside the recently unveiled S30 series.

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