Category: All News

  • Qualcomm Hints at New Flagship Product with Snapdragon 8s Gen 4

    Qualcomm Hints at New Flagship Product with Snapdragon 8s Gen 4

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm will host a launch event in China on April 2, 2025, to introduce a new flagship Snapdragon product, likely the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4.
    2. The Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 is expected to have a 1+3+2 core architecture and will not include Oryon cores, skipping the previously rumored Snapdragon 8s Elite name.
    3. The new SoC will feature the Adreno 825 GPU, which has fewer cores than the Adreno 830 in the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
    4. Performance benchmarks for the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 could exceed 2 million points on AnTuTu, surpassing the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3.
    5. Xiaomi and iQOO are anticipated to be the first brands to release devices with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, with launches expected in mid-April 2025.


    Qualcomm has revealed plans for a launch event in China on April 2, 2025, where they are likely to introduce a new flagship Snapdragon product. Although there is no official word yet, it’s anticipated that the much-discussed Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 will make its debut at this gathering. This new affordable flagship SoC is expected to be a genuine successor to the previous year’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, but it seems to be skipping the Oryon cores.

    Name Speculation

    This absence of Oryon cores might explain why it won’t carry the name Snapdragon 8s Elite, which had been suggested by earlier rumors. New information indicates that the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 will adopt a 1+3+2 architecture, a significant departure from the custom 2+6 Oryon setup seen in the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

    Core Details

    According to recent leaks, details about the core clocks have emerged, and the layout might resemble the following:

    The Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 is also said to include the Adreno 825 GPU, which is from the same generation as the Adreno 830 in the Snapdragon 8 Elite, but it will have a reduced number of GPU cores. In terms of performance, it’s rumored that this SoC could achieve over 2 million points on AnTuTu benchmarks, surpassing the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 but possibly not much beyond the standard Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (12/256 GB RedMagic 9S Pro currently priced at $636.65 on Amazon).

    Smartphone Launches

    Xiaomi and iQOO are expected to be the first brands to release smartphones featuring the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4. Previous reports mention that this SoC will power devices like the Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro, Redmi Turbo 4 Pro, and iQOO Z10 Turbo Pro, with the first two likely to launch around mid-April 2025.

    Source:
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  • Siterwell Smoke and CO Detector: Save 50% on Safety Now!

    Siterwell Smoke and CO Detector: Save 50% on Safety Now!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Siterwell Electronics specializes in smart sensors, IoT security, and smart home technologies since 2010.
    2. The Combo Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector offers dual functionality in a single device, enhancing home safety.
    3. The detector can be installed in various living areas but should not be placed in basements or near air vents for safety reasons.
    4. It detects smoke 15 seconds faster than industry standards and has a 99.96% accuracy rate, reducing false alarms.
    5. The smart alarm features discounts up to 50% until March 31, available for purchase on Siterwell’s website and Amazon.


    Since 2010, Siterwell Electronics has been recognized for its expertise in developing smart ecosystems, particularly focusing on an array of smart sensor alarms, IoT security, and smart home technologies.

    Leading the Market in Safety Solutions

    Siterwell stands as a top contender in providing smart home safety solutions that adhere to global standards. The latest product to join their lineup is the Combo Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector, which integrates both functionalities into a single device.

    Versatile Installation Options

    The smart smoke and carbon monoxide detector by Siterwell is suitable for nearly all living areas such as kitchens, hallways, bedrooms, and storage spaces. However, for safety reasons, it is advised to avoid placements in basements, corners, sloped ceilings, and near air vents.

    In critical situations like a fire, every moment counts. The new smart alarm from Siterwell is notable for its capacity to detect smoke 15 seconds faster than the required UL217 9th Edition standard (*according to testing conducted in Siterwell’s lab, though actual results may differ in real-life scenarios).

    Exceptional Detection Accuracy

    This prompt detection provides crucial time to ensure you and your family’s safety. The alarm boasts an impressive accuracy rate of 99.96% for identifying smoke and carbon monoxide. Utilizing advanced dual-lightwave technology, Siterwell’s combo smoke and CO detector can tell the difference between cooking smoke and genuine fire smoke, eliminating unnecessary interruptions while you cook.

    Additional Features and Discounts

    Moreover, the Siterwell smart alarm includes various additional features that enhance its usability. With discounts reaching as high as 50% until March 31, now is an excellent opportunity to upgrade your home safety measures.

    You can purchase the Siterwell smoke and CO detector directly from the company’s website. For discounted prices, check the links provided below.

    – Siterwell smoke and CO detector wireless interconnected available from Siterwell
    – Siterwell smoke and CO detector hardwired interconnected available from Siterwell

    Alternatively, visit Siterwell’s alarm product page on Amazon to find both the wireless and hardwired models at discounted prices.

    – Get the Siterwell smoke and CO detector wireless interconnected variant on Amazon
    – Get the Siterwell smoke and CO detector hardwired interconnected variant on Amazon

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  • Sony Xperia 1 VII Camera Upgrade and Walkman Tease Leak

    Sony Xperia 1 VII Camera Upgrade and Walkman Tease Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sony Xperia 1 VII is expected to feature a significantly improved telephoto camera with a larger sensor size (~1/2″) compared to its predecessor (1/3.5”).
    2. Enhanced telephoto capabilities may lead to sharper photos and better low light performance, aligning with Sony’s reputation in imaging technology.
    3. Discussions are ongoing about all three rear cameras potentially using Exmor T sensors, hinting at overall camera improvements.
    4. There are rumors of Sony developing high-resolution sensors (200MP and 100MP) for future flagship devices.
    5. A reference to the Walkman brand raises speculation about a possible revival of Xperia Walkman phones or updates to the Sony Music Center app.


    Recent leaks indicate that the Sony Xperia 1 VII might see a significant camera enhancement, along with an unexpected reference to the Walkman brand. A reliable source from the Xperia community has shared intriguing insights, suggesting that Sony’s flagship for 2025—expected to launch around May or June—could feature a notably improved telephoto camera. However, it’s still unclear when it will be available in the US.

    Xperia 1 VII’s Enhanced Telephoto Sensor

    The information originated from a user named spektykles on the Esato forum, who is well-regarded among Xperia enthusiasts. In a recent update, spektykles mentioned that the telephoto sensor of the Xperia 1 VII is projected to be around “~1/2” in size—a significant upgrade from the 1/3.5” Exmor RS sensor found in the Xperia 1 VI. The tilde indicates that this is an approximation.

    Nonetheless, this suggests a larger sensor, which would likely result in sharper photos and enhanced performance in low light conditions. Many discussions are happening about all three rear cameras potentially featuring Exmor T sensors, but this telephoto detail seems like a promising improvement. It also fits well within Sony’s history of imaging excellence. The pressing question remains whether it can compete with rivals that excel in computational photography. Rumors also hint that Sony is developing several 200MP and 100MP sensors, with one of them possibly making its way into a future Xperia flagship.

    A Nod to the Walkman Legacy?

    In another post, spektykles remarked, “welcome back, Walkman,” paired with the vintage Sony Ericsson “liquid energy” logo. This raises the question: could this signal a return of the Xperia Walkman phone, reminiscent of the classic W-Series, or is it merely an updated Sony Music Center app?

    The logo might be a nostalgic reference or a clever diversion. Considering the rumors surrounding Xperia 2025, it’s easy to fantasize about a music-focused flagship, although specifics remain unclear. For now, we can only speculate whether Sony is planning to merge state-of-the-art cameras with a revival of retro audio elements.

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  • ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 Air 2025: RTX 5080, Core Ultra 9-285H

    ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 Air 2025: RTX 5080, Core Ultra 9-285H

    Key Takeaways

    1. Price and Availability: The ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 Air 2025 is priced at ¥23,999 and preorders begin on March 31, with a wider international release expected later.

    2. Lightweight Design: The laptop weighs 1.95kg and is only 1.49cm thick, making it ideal for users seeking high performance in a portable form.

    3. High-Quality Display: It features a 16-inch OLED Nebula Display with 2.5K resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, 0.2ms response time, and supports Dolby Vision.

    4. Powerful Performance: Equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 9-285H processor, NVIDIA RTX 5080 GPU, 32GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, the laptop is designed for demanding gaming and productivity tasks.

    5. Advanced Cooling and Connectivity: It includes the Glacier Cooling 3.0 system for effective heat management, along with multiple connectivity options like Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and a six-speaker Dolby Atmos audio system.


    ASUS has put the ROG Zephyrus M16 Air 2025 gaming laptop on JD.com for a price of ¥23,999. Preorders will begin on March 31. This laptop is designed for those who want top-tier performance in a lightweight package, as it weighs 1.95kg and is only 1.49cm thick.

    Design and Display

    The laptop is available in Eclipse Gray and Platinum White, crafted from CNC-machined aircraft-grade aluminum. The lid has a customizable “Space-Time Rift” LED matrix that features seven RGB zones and 15 different lighting themes. Its 16-inch OLED Nebula Display boasts a 2.5K resolution with a 240Hz refresh rate, a 0.2ms response time, and a brightness of 500 nits. It supports Dolby Vision and covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color space. ASUS also provides a two-year burn-in warranty for the screen.

    Performance and Cooling

    Inside, the M16 Air houses Intel’s Core Ultra 9-285H processor (16-core) and NVIDIA’s RTX 5080 GPU with a 130W TGP. It is equipped with 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, with options for storage upgrades through dual M.2 slots. The cooling solution is the Glacier Cooling 3.0 system, which features liquid metal thermal paste, dual Arc Flow fans, and vapor chambers.

    Connectivity and Extra Features

    The laptop is fitted with two Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps, 100W PD), HDMI 2.1 (8K@60Hz), two USB-A ports (10Gbps), a UHS-II SD card reader, and WiFi 6E. There’s also a dedicated square power port that monitors temperature to help manage heat effectively. Additionally, it comes with a six-speaker Dolby Atmos audio system, an RGB backlit keyboard with 1.7mm key travel, and a 90Wh battery that supports 100W fast charging via USB-C.

    Release Information

    The ROG Zephyrus M16 Air 2025 will launch in China on March 31, with a wider international release anticipated in the months that follow. The laptop is priced at ¥23,999 (approximately US$3,307) on both the ASUS China website and JD.com.

    Source:
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  • Hisense 2025 ULED TVs: AI, 165Hz, Dolby Vision Gaming & More

    Hisense 2025 ULED TVs: AI, 165Hz, Dolby Vision Gaming & More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hisense launched its ULED TV lineup for 2025, featuring U6, U7, U8, and U9 series with over 100-inch screen options, catering to various audiences and budgets.

    2. The new ULED series includes advanced AI technology, with the U9 series using the Hi-View AI Engine X to enhance picture quality, contrast, and motion clarity in real time.

    3. Key enhancements include improved local dimming, Quantum Dot technology, and AI-driven features that elevate the viewing experience, particularly for gamers with refresh rates up to 165Hz and support for Dolby Vision Gaming.

    4. The U8 series achieves peak brightness of up to 5000 nits and includes Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and an 82W Dolby Atmos sound system, while the U7 series targets gamers with MiniLED Pro technology and Game Mode features.

    5. The 2025 ULED lineup supports HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi 6E, and smart home integration, with pricing for the U9 series starting at $2,999 for the 75-inch model and $3,999 for the 85-inch model, set to launch later this year.


    Hisense has launched its ULED TV lineup for 2025, which includes the U6, U7, U8, and U9 series, now offering more than 100-inch screen options. The latest models are designed to enhance picture quality and performance, catering to movie lovers, gamers, and sports fans across a variety of price points.

    Advanced AI Technology

    The 2025 ULED series is equipped with AI-driven features that automatically optimize the visual experience. The U9 series utilizes the Hi-View AI Engine X, found in the ULED X models, while the U7 and U8 series are powered by the Hi-View AI Engine Pro. These processors work to improve contrast, color precision, and motion clarity in real time, ensuring a better viewing experience.

    Notable Enhancements

    This year’s improvements feature better local dimming and Quantum Dot technology, leading to richer blacks, vibrant colors, and enhanced brightness. For gamers, the TVs come with AI-driven motion processing, refresh rates up to 165Hz, and support for Dolby Vision Gaming. Additionally, AI-enhanced audio processing elevates the Dolby Atmos sound experience.

    Series Specifications

    The U9 series now includes a new 65-inch model alongside the existing 75 and 85-inch variants, leveraging the Hi-View AI Engine X for optimal brightness, contrast, and color. Among its many features are AI 4K Upscaler, AI Super Resolution, AI Noise Reduction, AI Local Dimming, AI HDR Upscaler, and AI Depth Enhancer. The series boasts a higher peak brightness, an Ultra LR panel to minimize reflections, and a wider viewing angle. Audio capabilities incorporate CineStage X Surround, Dolby Atmos, and DTS Virtual X, offering a 4.1.2 or 5.1.2 multi-channel sound experience.

    The U8 series, powered by the Hi-View AI Engine Pro, delivers excellent picture quality, smooth motion, and captivating audio. It can achieve peak brightness levels of up to 5000 nits, with expanded local dimming and Quantum Dot tech. A 165Hz refresh rate, MEMC, and quick response times are also part of the package. Visual enhancements like Dolby Vision, Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, and IMAX Enhanced, paired with an 82W Dolby Atmos 4.1.2 multi-channel sound system, ensure an immersive experience.

    Targeting Gamers and Sports Fans

    The U7 series is designed with gamers and sports enthusiasts in mind, featuring MiniLED Pro technology and offering a 165Hz refresh rate. It includes features such as 165Hz Game Mode Ultra, Game Booster 288 Hz, VRR, ALLM, Dolby Vision Gaming, and FreeSync Premium Pro. Also, it comes with an AGLR-Antiglare low reflection panel and upgraded Dolby Atmos audio, providing 60W 2.1.2 multi-channel sound.

    The U6 series makes MiniLED technology accessible at lower price points, integrating Fire TV and Alexa Voice Remote. Its features include Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos with a 2.1 built-in subwoofer, HDR10+ Adaptive, ALLM, VRR, a 144Hz refresh rate, Game Mode Pro, FreeSync Premium, and Wi-Fi 6 capabilities.

    Pricing and Release Information

    All models support HDMI eARC, Wi-Fi 6E, and are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. The 2025 ULED lineup is set to launch later this year, offering large-screen entertainment with multiple performance options suitable for different budgets.

    The U9 series will be available in a new smaller 65-inch size, along with 75-inch and 85-inch options. Reports have indicated that the prices for the 75-inch and 85-inch models will be $2,999 and $3,999 in the US, respectively. While the launch is anticipated later this year, Hisense has yet to specify an exact release date.

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  • HP Omen MAX 2025 Gaming Laptop Launches in China with RTX 5080

    HP Omen MAX 2025 Gaming Laptop Launches in China with RTX 5080

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Details: The HP Omen MAX gaming laptop will be released in China on March 31 at 9 PM, priced at ¥18,999 ($2,618), with a discount to ¥16,999 (~$2,350).

    2. High-Performance Specs: It features an Intel 24-core Ultra 9-275HX processor, NVIDIA RTX 5080 GPU, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB PCIe 5.0 SSD, with a total power consumption exceeding 250W.

    3. Advanced Cooling System: The laptop includes a dual-fan cooling system with heat pipes and a vapor chamber, enhancing heat transfer compared to standard thermal paste.

    4. Display and Connectivity: It has a 16-inch 2560×1600 IPS display with a 240Hz refresh rate, peak brightness of 500 nits, and multiple connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1.

    5. Security Features and Design: The Omen MAX includes a Full HD IR camera for Windows Hello login, a physical privacy shutter, and a minimalistic black design focused on performance.


    HP is set to launch the Omen MAX gaming laptop in China on March 31 at 9 PM. The laptop is priced at ¥18,999 ($2,618), but there’s a discount that lowers the price to ¥16,999 (~$2,350). This device is designed for gamers and content creators, featuring top-notch components packed into a 16-inch size.

    Powerful Specs

    The Omen MAX is equipped with Intel’s 24-core Ultra 9-275HX processor and NVIDIA’s RTX 5080 GPU that can reach a maximum power of 175W. It also includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM (5600MT/s) and a 1TB PCIe 5.0 SSD. HP claims the combined power consumption of both the CPU and GPU exceeds 250W (75W for the CPU and 175W for the GPU), which is managed by an advanced dual-fan cooling system. This thermal management system features heat pipes, a vapor chamber that covers 61% of the motherboard, and a hybrid liquid metal compound, which enhances heat transfer performance compared to standard thermal paste.

    Impressive Display and Connectivity

    The laptop showcases a 16-inch 2560×1600 IPS screen with a refresh rate of 240Hz and a peak brightness of 500 nits, offering full sRGB coverage. It also supports variable refresh rate (VRR) to reduce screen tearing while gaming. For connectivity, there are two Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps, 100W PD), two USB-A 10Gbps ports, an HDMI 2.1 port (capable of 8K at 60Hz), a 2.5G Ethernet port, and compatibility with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.

    Security and Design

    For security features, the laptop comes with a Full HD IR camera for Windows Hello login and a physical privacy shutter. The overall design is minimalistic, primarily black, focusing on performance over style. HP has yet to reveal information about the laptop’s weight or thickness.

    Additionally, the laptop is available for pre-order in other regions outside of China, with starting prices at US$1,899.99.


  • New Galaxy Watch 8 Models Revealed in Firmware Leak

    New Galaxy Watch 8 Models Revealed in Firmware Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Watch 8 is expected to be released in 2025, alongside Samsung’s foldable smartphones.
    2. Recent firmware leaks reveal model numbers for the Galaxy Watch 8, confirming its development status.
    3. Model numbers include Bluetooth versions SM-L320 and SM-L330, and US LTE models SM-L325U and SM-L335U.
    4. Anticipated improvements include advanced health sensors and AI-enabled tracking features, building on the Galaxy Watch 7’s capabilities.
    5. The launch is likely to coincide with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7, expected around July or August 2025.


    Samsung is gearing up for its yearly smartwatch update, and recent information strongly suggests that the Galaxy Watch 8 is on its way, set to be released in 2025. After the launch of the Galaxy Watch 7 and Watch Ultra in mid-2024, the company is likely to reveal its next series of devices together with its foldable smartphones around July or August. A recent leak of firmware has provided a solid clue about what to expect.

    Firmware Leak Reveals Model Numbers

    An X user known as @theonecid has uncovered a test firmware that lists the model numbers for the Galaxy Watch 8. The Bluetooth versions are identified as SM-L320 and SM-L330, associated with firmware versions L320XXU0AYC4/L320OXM0AYC4. Meanwhile, the US LTE models are noted as SM-L325U and SM-L335U, linked to firmware versions L325USQU0AYC6/L325UOYM0AYC. These align with Samsung’s usual naming convention—similar to SM-L310 and SM-L315 for the Watch 7—suggesting that these details are indeed credible.

    Expectations for the Galaxy Watch 8

    Although specific specifications are still unclear, this leak indicates that Samsung is nearing completion of the Galaxy Watch 8 models. With the Galaxy Watch 7 introducing enhanced health sensors and AI-enabled wellness and sleep tracking, there are high hopes that the Watch 8 will build on these features. Will we see more advanced fitness tracking capabilities or a more refined design? Additional information is likely to emerge as the launch date approaches.

    Anticipated Improvements and Launch Timing

    The improvements made last year were well received, merging state-of-the-art health-tracking tools with intuitive AI functionalities. The upcoming Watch 8 is expected to enhance these elements, potentially aligning its introduction with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 launches. So far, this firmware leak serves as an intriguing preview, hinting at another remarkable smartwatch from a brand that excels in the wearable market.

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  • Qualcomm Announces April 2 Event for Snapdragon 8s Elite Launch

    Qualcomm Announces April 2 Event for Snapdragon 8s Elite Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm will hold a launch event on April 2 to introduce a new flagship product, likely the Snapdragon 8s Elite or 8s Gen 4 chipset.
    2. The Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 will be produced using TSMC’s 4nm process with an all-big-core CPU layout for improved performance.
    3. It features a CPU configuration with one Cortex-X4 core and multiple Cortex-A720 cores, aiming for robust performance across tasks.
    4. Benchmark scores suggest the chipset could surpass 2 million points on AnTuTu, placing it between Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and 8 Gen 3 in performance.
    5. The first smartphones with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 are expected to launch in April, including models from Redmi, iQOO, Xiaomi, and Oppo.


    Qualcomm has revealed that it will hold a launch event on April 2, suggesting the introduction of a new flagship product. Although the company hasn’t directly stated the name, various reports indicate that this event will likely unveil the Snapdragon 8s Elite or the 8s Gen 4 chipset.

    Snapdragon 8s Elite / Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 Specifications

    The anticipated chipset is set to be produced using TSMC’s 4nm process technology. It will utilize an all-big-core CPU layout. The CPU setup includes one Cortex-X4 core operating at 3.21GHz, three Cortex-A720 cores running at 3.01GHz, two Cortex-A720 cores at 2.80GHz, and an additional two Cortex-A720 cores at 2.02GHz. This configuration aims to deliver robust performance across a range of tasks.

    For graphics processing, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 is expected to feature the Adreno 825 GPU, which is a slightly less powerful variant of the Adreno 830 found in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. Furthermore, the chipset will come with 6MB of system-level cache (SLC) and 8MB of L3 cache, designed to improve overall efficiency.

    Anticipated Performance and Benchmark Scores

    Benchmark results are indicating that this processor could surpass 2 million points on AnTuTu. This positions it between the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 regarding performance capabilities.

    Expected Devices and Launch Timeline

    Numerous smartphone manufacturers are gearing up to use this new chipset in their forthcoming devices. The first models equipped with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 are anticipated to hit the market in April. These include the Redmi Turbo 4 Pro, iQOO Z10 Turbo Pro, Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro, and Oppo K13 Pro. Notably, the Z10 Turbo Pro is expected to be the first to be launched with this new processor.

    Globally, the Poco F7 is likely to be the first smartphone to feature the Snapdragon 8s Elite or 8s Gen 4 chipset. It is thought to be a rebranded version of the Redmi Turbo 4 Pro. Additionally, the Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro is likely to be relaunched as the Xiaomi 15 Civi in India.

  • Expectations for MediaTek Dimensity 9400e Performance and Features

    Expectations for MediaTek Dimensity 9400e Performance and Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. MediaTek is rebranding its upcoming chip from Dimensity 9350 to Dimensity 9400e, positioning it closer to flagship offerings.
    2. The Dimensity 9400e is expected to outperform the Dimensity 9300+ with enhanced clock speeds and an all-big-core CPU strategy.
    3. The chip will likely retain the Immortalis-G720 GPU and see improvements in AI performance through optimized architecture.
    4. Manufacturing on TSMC’s 4nm process could enhance efficiency, power management, and thermal performance.
    5. The Dimensity 9400e is expected to power mid-premium smartphones like the OnePlus Ace 5V and Realme devices, intensifying competition in the sub-flagship market.


    MediaTek is gearing up for a strategic shift in the competitive sub-flagship market, taking cues from Qualcomm. Initially anticipated to be released as the Dimensity 9350, this chip is now likely set to debut as the Dimensity 9400e. This rebranding indicates that MediaTek aims to position this new model closer to its flagship offerings rather than merely adding another option to the mid-high tier Dimensity 9300 range.

    Performance Expectations

    Leaked information from reliable Chinese source Digital Chat Station suggests that the Dimensity 9400e will provide real performance improvements, not just a marketing gimmick. It’s rumored to be deserving of the label “9300++,” hinting at its capability to exceed the already enhanced Dimensity 9300+.

    Core Configuration

    At the core of the Dimensity 9400e, it’s believed to feature the same configuration as the 9300 and 9300+: one Cortex-X4 prime core, three Cortex-X4 performance cores, and four Cortex-A720 cores. This totals eight performance-oriented cores without any efficiency cores—showcasing MediaTek’s commitment to its all-big-core CPU strategy, first introduced with the 9300.

    What sets this version apart? Enhanced clock speeds. The 9400e is expected to push these frequencies beyond those of the 9300+, which already had the prime Cortex-X4 clocked at 3.4GHz. This change could result in noticeable improvements in burst performance and multitasking capabilities. Anticipate benchmark results that may surpass those of the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and potentially challenge Qualcomm’s upcoming 8s Gen 4, which also aims for the sub-flagship market.

    Graphics and AI Advancements

    There’s currently no official word regarding changes to the GPU; however, the Dimensity 9400e is likely to keep the Immortalis-G720 GPU, which has shown strong performance in the 9300 series, particularly with its 46% better ray tracing support. Incremental boosts in AI performance can also be expected, likely owing to optimized tuning of MediaTek’s APU 790 and enhancements in its “NeuroPilot” architecture.

    Efficiency and Manufacturing

    Efficiency is another important aspect of this chip. The Dimensity 9400e might be manufactured using TSMC’s 4nm process node, similar to its predecessors. While specifics remain vague, any improvements in power management or thermal performance could have a significant impact—especially for a chip that emphasizes high performance across all cores.

    Future Devices

    The Dimensity 9400e is poised to power a variety of performance-oriented mid-premium Android smartphones expected to launch later this year. Leading this lineup might be the OnePlus Ace 5V, a device rumored to feature an impressive 7,000mAh battery and a flat 1.5K display. This model is likely the successor to the Ace 3V, which was rebranded as the Nord 4 for international markets. It’s reasonable to assume that the Ace 5V could eventually make its way outside of China as the Nord 5.

    Realme is also reportedly looking to adopt the 9400e, making this chip a formidable player in the upper-midrange segment where performance and value meet.

    MediaTek’s Competitive Strategy

    MediaTek’s choice to rename the 9350 to Dimensity 9400e mirrors Qualcomm’s rebranding approach with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 (previously known as the 8s Elite). Both companies are merging the lines between flagship and sub-flagship categories, providing near-top-tier performance in devices that don’t necessarily come with hefty price tags.

    This strategy is a wise one. With the Dimensity 9400e, MediaTek could sustain the positive momentum from its successful 9300 series and demonstrate that it can compete in the high-performance arena alongside Qualcomm. Furthermore, this sets the stage for a more crowded and competitive premium mid-range smartphone market in 2025.

    No official date for the launch has been disclosed yet, but if the leaks hold true, MediaTek is close to making an announcement. If the expected performance and efficiency improvements come to fruition, the Dimensity 9400e could emerge as the sub-flagship chip to watch this year.

    Additionally, MediaTek is scheduled to unveil the Dimensity 9400+ on April 11th, which has already appeared in various benchmark listings.