Category: Phones

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  • Motorola Moto G (2026): Affordable 5G Phone at $199.99 with Upgrades

    Motorola Moto G (2026): Affordable 5G Phone at $199.99 with Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Motorola has launched two new smartphones in the Moto G series: the Moto G Play and the updated Moto G (2026).
    2. The Moto G (2026) features a 6.7-inch, 720p, 120 Hz IPS display and retains the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset.
    3. The new model includes a larger 5,200 mAh battery, an increase of 200 mAh from the 2025 version.
    4. Camera upgrades include a 32 MP front-facing camera, while the rear camera setup remains a 50 MP main camera and a 2 MP macro sensor.
    5. The Moto G (2026) will be available for preorder on December 11 for $199.99 and promises two major OS updates starting from Android 16.


    Motorola has introduced two new smartphones in its Moto G series today. Firstly, they have unveiled the new Moto G Play, which we have detailed in a separate article. Secondly, they have updated the Moto G lineup with the 2026 version, replacing the Moto G (2025) in less than a year since it first launched (curr. $174.99 on Amazon).

    Similar Features

    As expected, not much has changed in just ten months for the Moto G. The 6.7-inch, 720p, and 120 Hz IPS display from the previous model continues to be featured. The MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, built on a 6 nm architecture, remains as well, consisting of two ARM Cortex-A76 performance cores and six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores, plus a Mali-G57 MP2 GPU. However, this time, it comes with a larger 5,200 mAh battery, which is a 200 mAh increase from the 2025 model.

    Camera and Charging

    On the charging front, it still includes 30 W wired charging, but there’s no support for wireless charging. The camera system also sees a familiar setup with a 50 MP main camera and a 2 MP macro sensor on the back. Notably, the front-facing camera has been upgraded from 16 MP to a 32 MP sensor, maintaining an f/2.4 aperture. Additionally, Motorola promises two major OS updates starting from Android 16, instead of Android 15 that was offered with the Moto G (2025).

    The Moto G (2026) will be available for preorder directly from Motorola on December 11 for $199.99 in the US. It will also be accessible through network carriers on that same date. However, major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy will not have it in stock until January 15. For further details, check out Motorola’s website.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Price Hike Expected with New Chips

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Price Hike Expected with New Chips

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung may take several months to release the Galaxy S26 series, but price hike discussions are already occurring.
    2. Component costs for the Galaxy S26 series are rising, with camera hardware and mobile chipsets increasing by 8% and 12%.
    3. LPDDR5 RAM prices have surged by over 15%, affecting overall production costs.
    4. External factors, like US tariffs, are influencing Samsung’s pricing strategy for the Galaxy S26 series.
    5. Despite rising costs, Samsung previously maintained prices for the Galaxy S25 series, suggesting possible minimal or no price increases for the upcoming models.


    Samsung is thought to still be several months away from introducing new models to replace its current Galaxy S25 series. However, discussions about potential price hikes for the upcoming flagship candybar smartphones have already started circulating from various sources.

    Speculations on Pricing

    According to a report from ET News, increasing costs of components are likely to lead to higher prices for the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. The report references industry insiders and Samsung Electronics’ semi-annual statements, indicating that camera hardware and mobile chipsets have seen price increases of 8% and 12% compared to last year. For the Galaxy S26 series, Samsung is expected to utilize the Exynos 2600 in select markets while using the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in others.

    Rising Component Costs

    Moreover, the expense of acquiring LPDDR5 RAM has reportedly surged by more than 15%. Furthermore, external factors, such as tariffs imposed by the US, are said to be on Samsung’s mind as they make decisions regarding the pricing of the Galaxy S26 series. To give some perspective, the Galaxy S25 series was believed to be set for a considerable price increase compared to its Galaxy S24 predecessors, largely due to the inclusion of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.

    Historical Context

    After the release of the Galaxy S25 Ultra (currently priced at $1,025 on Amazon), analyses of the bill of materials pointed out that Qualcomm’s chipset was responsible for the increased production costs. Nevertheless, Samsung chose not to transfer these expenses to consumers, maintaining the price of the Galaxy S25 series to match that of its previous models. Given Samsung’s past practices, it seems plausible that we might see only slight price increases, or even no price hikes at all, in an ideal scenario.

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  • OnePlus Ace 6 Pro Max: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 & 8000mAh Battery

    OnePlus Ace 6 Pro Max: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 & 8000mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus is reportedly developing a new smartphone called the OnePlus Ace 6 Pro Max, following the ‘Pro Max’ naming trend started by Redmi.
    2. A leaked image from Weibo shows a retail package for the OnePlus Ace 6 Pro Max, which features the ‘Pro Max’ label but lacks detailed specifications.
    3. The new device is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, which is anticipated to be more powerful than the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the standard Ace 6.
    4. The OnePlus Ace 6 Pro Max may feature a 1.5K display with a 165Hz refresh rate and could have a battery capacity exceeding 8,000 mAh.
    5. The ‘Pro Max’ branding is not officially confirmed, and the leak should be approached with caution until OnePlus makes a formal announcement.


    Last month, Redmi unveiled a ‘Pro Max’ version in its performance-focused lineup. It now appears that OnePlus is set to embrace the ‘Pro Max’ name for its upcoming smartphone. Recently, the company launched the flagship OnePlus 15 along with the budget-friendly OnePlus Ace 6. A newly leaked image hints that the OnePlus Ace 6 Pro Max is currently under development.

    Leaked Image on Weibo

    An image shared on Weibo shows a retail package for the OnePlus Ace 6 Pro Max. We can only see the front of the box, which prominently features the ‘Pro Max’ label, but no specifications have been disclosed at this time.

    New Phone in Development

    It’s not a big shocker that OnePlus is preparing a new device. Back in September, the company announced plans to launch its first smartphone powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset. This new processor is predicted to be more powerful than the Snapdragon 8 Elite located in the standard Ace 6. However, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 will be placed below the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, which is what drives the OnePlus 15.

    Expected Features

    Moreover, the soon-to-be-released smartphone is anticipated to come equipped with a 1.5K display and a refresh rate of 165Hz. It might also be OnePlus’s phone with the biggest battery, featuring a capacity exceeding 8,000 mAh.

    Keep in mind that the ‘Pro Max’ branding hasn’t been officially confirmed yet. The retail box looks genuine, but it’s hard to verify in an era where AI-generated images are easily made. So, it’s wise to approach this leak with caution until the company gives a formal acknowledgment of the name of its new device. It’s likely to be launched in China by the end of the year.

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  • Vivo Y500 Pro: The People’s Flagship with 7000mAh Battery & 200MP Camera

    Vivo Y500 Pro: The People’s Flagship with 7000mAh Battery & 200MP Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vivo will launch the Y500 Pro on November 10, branding it as a new ‘people’s little flagship’.
    2. The Y500 Pro features a 7,000 mAh battery and a 200 MP primary camera with an ISOCELL HP5 sensor.
    3. The device may include 2 MP auxiliary lenses instead of separate ultra-wide-angle or telephoto cameras.
    4. It has IP69 certification for durability and a 6.67-inch display with satin anti-glare glass.
    5. The Y500 Pro runs on OriginOS 6 and is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset with 12 GB of RAM.


    Vivo has recently launched the X300 and X300 Pro worldwide, having revealed them earlier this month in China. However, the brand has already shared on Weibo that a new smartphone is in the pipeline. Instead of the expected S50 series, Vivo is set to unveil the Y500 Pro next week in its home country, branding it as a new ‘people’s little flagship’.

    Launch Date and Features

    Vivo plans to introduce the Y500 Pro on Monday, November 10. Before its official launch, the company has confirmed that this device will feature impressive hardware, including a massive 7,000 mAh battery and a primary camera boasting 200 MP. For context, the ISOCELL HP5 sensor mentioned is already present in the Galaxy S25 Edge (currently priced at $644.99 on Amazon).

    Camera and Build Quality

    Interestingly, Vivo might pair this sensor with 2 MP auxiliary lenses instead of providing a dedicated ultra-wide-angle or telephoto camera. Regardless of this choice, the Y500 Pro holds an IP69 certification, ensuring durability, and it’s equipped with a 6.67-inch display protected by the same ‘satin’ anti-glare glass as Vivo’s latest flagship models. Running on OriginOS 6 right out of the box, recent Geekbench results suggest that the Y500 Pro will also come with a MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset and 12 GB of RAM, similar to the Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro and other competing smartphones.

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  • Realme C85 5G Launches with Dimensity 6300 and 7000 mAh Battery

    Realme C85 5G Launches with Dimensity 6300 and 7000 mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Realme launched the C85 5G and C85 Pro smartphones in Vietnam, with key differences in display and processor.
    2. The C85 5G features a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of non-expandable storage, running on Android 15 with Realme UI 6.
    3. It has a 7,000 mAh battery with 45 W wired charging and OTG charging capabilities, along with a 50 MP rear camera and an 8 MP front camera.
    4. The display is a 6.8-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1570 x 720 pixels, 1200 nits brightness, and a 144 Hz refresh rate.
    5. The C85 5G is priced starting at VND 6,490,000 ($247) and comes in peacock green and parrot purple colors.


    Realme has broadened its C-series range by launching the new C85 5G and C85 Pro smartphones in Vietnam. We’ve already discussed the Pro version in detail, which you can check out here. In terms of specifications, both models share many features, though there are some differences. For instance, the C85 Pro comes equipped with an AMOLED display and a Snapdragon 685 processor, whereas the standard version is powered by MediaTek’s mid-tier processor with an LCD display.

    Performance and Software

    The Realme C85 5G runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, featuring 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage, with no option to expand storage. It operates on Android 15 with Realme UI 6 pre-installed. Sadly, there is no information available regarding the brand’s software support for this device.

    Battery and Camera Capabilities

    This smartphone is driven by a massive 7,000 mAh battery that supports 45 W wired charging (Anker 45 W USB-C charger currently priced at $19.99 on Amazon). Additionally, it can charge other devices such as smartphones and accessories like earbuds and smartwatches through OTG charging. In terms of camera capabilities, it features a 50 MP Sony IMX852 rear camera along with an 8 MP front camera for taking selfies and making video calls.

    Display and Features

    The Realme C85 5G showcases a 6.8-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 1570 x 720 pixels, achieving a peak brightness of 1200 nits and a refresh rate of 144 Hz. In comparison, the Pro model only offers a refresh rate of 120 Hz. Other notable features include an IP69 waterproof rating, an in-display fingerprint sensor, support for up to 24 GB of dynamic RAM, Bluetooth 5.3, WiFi 5, and NFC functionality.

    The Realme C85 5G is available in peacock green and parrot purple, starting at VND 6,490,000 ($247). The model with 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage is priced at VND 7,090,000 ($270). For further information, you can visit Realme’s official website.

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  • MediaTek Dominates AnTuTu’s Latest Mid-Range Phone Rankings

    MediaTek Dominates AnTuTu’s Latest Mid-Range Phone Rankings

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 excels in flagship device performance but is absent in mid-range rankings.
    2. MediaTek Dimensity SoCs dominate the mid-range performance chart, occupying all top ten spots.
    3. AnTuTu requires devices to complete at least 1,000 valid benchmark tests to be eligible for rankings.
    4. The absence of Snapdragon mid-range devices in the rankings may be due to not meeting the benchmark test requirement.
    5. Synthetic benchmark scores do not fully reflect a phone’s overall performance; factors like display quality, battery life, and camera should also be considered.


    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 has shined in the latest performance chart released by AnTuTu for flagship devices. However, when it comes to mid-range phones, the situation is quite different. No devices featuring a Snapdragon chipset have found their way onto the list. Instead, all ten spots are occupied by smartphones running on MediaTek Dimensity SoCs. Below is a detailed overview:

    MediaTek Dominates Rankings

    It’s certainly fascinating to see MediaTek securing all the top positions in this ranking. However, it’s important to recognize that AnTuTu compiles these monthly performance lists based on several criteria. One critical factor is that devices must complete at least 1,000 valid benchmark tests to be eligible for inclusion. It’s possible that none of the mid-range smartphones with Snapdragon chipsets have fulfilled this requirement for the rankings of October 2025.

    A Broader Perspective

    Another crucial aspect to think about is that these synthetic benchmark scores do not provide a complete picture of a phone’s capabilities. Other elements, like display quality, battery life, and camera performance, should also be taken into account before deciding to make a purchase.

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  • Unique Feature on the Back of This Phone Beyond the Cameras

    Unique Feature on the Back of This Phone Beyond the Cameras

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi’s 17 series introduces a back screen primarily used as a viewfinder for high-quality rear camera selfies and videos.
    2. The back display also shows notifications, time, and features always-on display (AoD) functions like a pedometer.
    3. Uncertainty exists about developers creating widgets for the second screen and the future support for this feature.
    4. The Pro models with the second screen may not launch globally, raising questions about Xiaomi’s future investment in this technology.
    5. The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max is priced at just under $1,090, and its value depends on the user’s interest in taking selfies or selfie videos.


    Larger batteries, super-thin designs, and tri-fold phones are all part of the push from manufacturers to keep the nearly perfected smartphone concept fresh with new ideas. One feature that has become more common is a display on the back of the device.

    Xiaomi’s New Attempt

    Xiaomi is giving it another go with a back screen in their 17 series, which isn’t available worldwide just yet. We recently examined the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max and looked at this unique attribute. The main use for this feature is likely its role as a viewfinder for the rear camera. This allows users to capture selfies or videos using the high-quality rear camera while being able to see themselves as they do it.

    Extra Functions

    Xiaomi has also incorporated this display for notifications, which is handy if the phone is placed face down on a table. Additionally, it can show the time and includes some always-on display (AoD) functions, like a pedometer.

    However, a key question is whether developers will create their own widgets for this second screen or if other types of support will emerge. While Xiaomi is a significant player in the market and the 17 series is likely to perform well, the Pro models (which are the only ones featuring the second screen) are probably not going to be launched globally. This raises doubts about how much Xiaomi will invest in this feature moving forward.

    Future of the Feature

    There may be a way to adapt apps designed for foldable devices, but currently, there are very few applications that would genuinely enhance the experience with the second screen.

    The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max is an impressive device priced at just under $1,090 for direct import from TradingShenzhen. Deciding whether to purchase it for the second screen largely depends on how often you take selfies or selfie videos with your phone.

  • Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Leak: Standard & Pro Variants with N2P GPU

    Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Leak: Standard & Pro Variants with N2P GPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series will have two versions: Standard and Pro.
    2. Both versions will use third-generation architecture and TSMC’s N2P fabrication technique, but the Pro variant will have better GPU performance and support for LPDDR6 memory.
    3. Qualcomm’s naming system for chips is confusing, with potential for non-flagship chips to carry the “Gen 5” tag and the introduction of a “Pro” label for Gen 6.
    4. The new Snapdragon 8 series is expected to feature a 2+3+3 CPU configuration for improved efficiency and performance.
    5. The advanced N2P manufacturing process is likely to reduce energy consumption in upcoming flagship smartphones.


    New insights from the well-known leaker Digital Chat Station (DCS) hint that Qualcomm’s next high-end chip could be available in two different versions. The source shared this information on Weibo, indicating that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series might come in both Standard and Pro configurations.

    Processor Specifications

    According to DCS, both of the upcoming mobile processors will utilize the same third-generation architecture. They will also be built using TSMC’s N2P fabrication technique. The Pro variant, however, will boast stronger specifications, including enhanced GPU performance and compatibility with LPDDR6 memory.

    Naming Confusion

    Qualcomm has a history of creating a rather perplexing naming system for its chips. The company transitioned from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, and there’s speculation that it will apply the “Gen 5” tag to a non-flagship chip this year. This could leave smartphone consumers bewildered, especially with the introduction of a “Pro” label for Gen 6.

    Future Expectations

    Despite the confusing naming conventions, the next-generation Snapdragon appears to be quite promising. Qualcomm’s forthcoming 2+3+3 CPU configuration is anticipated to enhance both efficiency and performance. Moreover, employing TSMC’s advanced N2P manufacturing process is likely to lower energy usage in the next series of flagship smartphones.

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  • Xiaomi 17 Ultra Set to Outshine Oppo Find X9 Pro and Vivo X300 Pro

    Xiaomi 17 Ultra Set to Outshine Oppo Find X9 Pro and Vivo X300 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the Xiaomi 17, Xiaomi 17 Pro, and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max, with plans for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra.
    2. Only the smaller Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra are expected to be available globally, similar to previous releases.
    3. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra will feature ‘true’ optical zoom, utilizing an external teleconverter lens instead of in-phone components.
    4. This new telephoto lens aims to provide a superior visual experience compared to previous models.
    5. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is anticipated to be launched before the end of the year.


    Xiaomi has recently launched the Xiaomi 17, Xiaomi 17 Pro, and the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. However, it seems the company is already focusing on the upcoming Xiaomi 17 Ultra. According to the latest information, it looks like only the smaller Xiaomi 17 will be available globally alongside the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, similar to how the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and the compact Xiaomi 15 were released earlier this year, with the current price being $897 on Amazon.

    Exciting Features Ahead

    In recent weeks, a known tipster, Digital Chat Station, has revealed that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be the first smartphone from Xiaomi to feature ‘true’ optical zoom. Interestingly, instead of following the trend set by recent Sony Xperia flagship models that include all periscope zoom components within the phone, Xiaomi is said to be exploring a new direction. The leaker claims that Xiaomi is working on an external teleconverter lens, much like what Oppo and Vivo have done with their latest flagship devices.

    A New Telephoto Lens

    This is expected to be a specialized telephoto lens, diverging from the camera kit accessories Xiaomi has provided for its Ultra models in recent years. The tipster also points out that this new solution will offer a better visual experience compared to those made for the Find X9 Pro or X300 Pro. It’s worth noting that Xiaomi presented a similar external camera lens earlier this year at MWC 2025 in Barcelona. This Laserlink-supported lens might be the foundation for Xiaomi’s camera strategy with the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, although it may not include a specific 100 MP M/4.3 camera sensor. Currently, it is anticipated that Xiaomi will introduce the Xiaomi 17 Ultra before the year concludes.

    Digital Chat Station

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  • Sony to Launch Xperia 1 VIII and Another Snapdragon 8 Elite Phone

    Sony to Launch Xperia 1 VIII and Another Snapdragon 8 Elite Phone

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is registering model numbers for the upcoming Xperia 1 VIII smartphone.
    2. The Xperia 10 VIII is more likely to be released than the Xperia 5, which was discontinued due to low demand.
    3. The Xperia 1 VIII will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, as confirmed by Qualcomm.
    4. Sony’s mobile division is undergoing changes, focusing on fewer models with higher impact.
    5. Fans are looking forward to innovative features and performance improvements in Sony’s future smartphone releases.


    A few weeks ago, there was some buzz about a new Sony Xperia smartphone that popped up online. To summarize, Sony was seen registering several model numbers that are said to be linked to the Xperia 1 VIII. Meanwhile, it seems like Sony’s mobile division is going through some changes, as The Walkman Blog has found out about model numbers tied to another yet-to-be-released Xperia smartphone.

    Possible New Variants

    It looks like the Xperia 10 VIII is more probable to emerge than the Xperia 5 returning at this point. The Xperia 5 was dropped after Sony’s fifth-generation smartphones were launched, mainly because it was seen as unnecessary due to lower demand just a year back. Consequently, it appears that the upcoming Xperia 1 will be the only smartphone from Sony powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. Qualcomm has already stated that Sony will be incorporating its newest high-end processor in at least one smartphone soon.

    Future Expectations

    The hints from The Walkman Blog suggest some exciting developments for Sony’s mobile offerings. With the focus shifting to the Xperia 1 VIII and the potential of the Xperia 10 VIII, it’ll be interesting to see how Sony positions itself in the competitive smartphone market. Fans are eagerly awaiting further updates and releases, hoping for innovative features and improvements in design and performance.

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