Category: Phones

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  • iPhone 20: A New Standard in Smartphone Design

    iPhone 20: A New Standard in Smartphone Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 20, marking the 20th anniversary in 2027, is expected to be named instead of following the iPhone 19 pattern.
    2. The iPhone 20 may feature solid state buttons that use haptic technology instead of physical presses.
    3. Mass production of the iPhone 20 with new button technology is set to begin, including haptic feedback for various controls.
    4. Apple plans to use AI-powered sound compensation algorithms for accurate haptic feedback without mechanical parts, enhancing design and durability.
    5. If successful, the iPhone 20’s innovations could influence other smartphone manufacturers and set a new industry standard for design.


    Apple is set to mark the 20th year of the iPhone in 2027, which is expected to bring significant changes to that year’s model. Although it could have been called the iPhone 19, many believe Apple will follow the same naming pattern it used for the iPhone X and instead name the anniversary model the iPhone 20. Notably, the iPhone 20 is rumored to be entirely devoid of buttons, potentially establishing a new benchmark for smartphones.

    Design Expectations

    Originally, Apple was rumored to introduce solid state buttons with the iPhone 15 Pro, but that plan did not materialize. Now, four years later with the iPhone 20, the company appears ready to finally implement this concept and deliver a major redesign for the 20th anniversary iPhone. Unlike traditional smartphone buttons, solid state buttons won’t have a physical press. Instead, users will receive feedback through haptic technology. This information reportedly comes from the well-known leaker Setsuna Digital (also known as Instant Digital) through Weibo, translated from Chinese.

    Production Plans

    According to the leaker, the verification process for this technology has been finalized, and mass production is set to commence with the iPhone 20 in 2027. This update will incorporate haptic feedback for the volume controls, Side button, Action button, and Camera Control. The leaker also mentioned that the Camera Control will be streamlined with the iPhone 18 by keeping just the pressure sensing layer. Subsequently, with the iPhone 20, this will transition to piezoelectric ceramics to provide localized vibration feedback.

    Technological Innovations

    To achieve accurate haptic feedback on these buttons, Apple is reportedly planning to utilize vibrations emitted from the back or frame of the device, combined with AI-powered sound compensation algorithms. A significant advantage of this approach is the elimination of mechanical wear and tear, given that there won’t be any moving parts. Additionally, it will allow for a seamless design, resulting in a sleeker, glass-like appearance.

    If Apple proceeds with this plan for the iPhone 20, it could influence other manufacturers to follow suit, similar to past trends where Apple has led the way with new technologies. As more brands adopt similar features, it could eventually set a new industry standard, although it may initially be limited to high-end models. This would represent a substantial design evolution for smartphones, especially following the advent of foldable devices.

     

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  • Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6: Qualcomm’s Next Performance Leader

    Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6: Qualcomm’s Next Performance Leader

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 has launched but will not appear in many flagship devices until early next year, with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra expected to feature it.

    2. Rumors about the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 suggest it will utilize 2 nm-class technology, marking a shift for Qualcomm in chipset production.

    3. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is based on 3 nm technology, following the 4 nm processes used in earlier Snapdragon models.

    4. TSMC’s N2P nodes, expected to be used in the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, promise an 18% performance boost and a 36% reduction in power draw compared to the previous N3E node.

    5. Concerns arise about the official launch timeline for the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, as the necessary N2P nodes may not be ready until July 2026.


    The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 has recently launched, being only a month old. It likely won’t be seen in many flagship devices until early next year, with the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (currently priced at $949 on Amazon) being one of those expected to feature it. However, there are already rumors on Weibo about its successor. It’s worth mentioning that Qualcomm has yet to release the more affordable Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, which is anticipated to power a future OnePlus smartphone with a large battery of around 8,000 mAh.

    Future Developments

    Digital Chat Station has reported that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 will represent Qualcomm’s shift to 2 nm-class technology. For reference, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is the second chipset based on 3 nm that Qualcomm has provided to Android manufacturers, following the use of 4 nm processes in its earlier Snapdragon X series and several recent Snapdragon 8 models. Specifically, the report indicates Qualcomm plans to utilize TSMC’s N2P nodes for the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, which are scheduled to enter mass production in the latter half of 2026.

    Performance Expectations

    If this is true, it means Qualcomm will bypass TSMC’s N2 node for the next Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. According to TSMC’s projections, the N2P nodes promise an 18% boost in performance over the N3E versions without raising power usage. In fact, these N2P nodes are expected to cut power draw by about 36% compared to the N3E node used in the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

    The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 is rumored to pair N2P nodes with LPDDR6 RAM and UFS 5.0 flash storage. However, since the N2P nodes are not expected to be ready until July, it raises concerns about whether the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 will be prepared for an official launch in September 2026.

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  • Google Pixel 10a: Key Features and Major Changes Before Release

    Google Pixel 10a: Key Features and Major Changes Before Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has released the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL, alongside the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
    2. Anticipation builds for the mid-range Pixel 10a, with rumors dating back to January 2025.
    3. The Pixel 10a will feature the Tensor G4 chipset, similar to the Pixel 9a.
    4. The new model is expected to be slightly shorter and narrower while keeping the same 6.3-inch display size.
    5. The design of the Pixel 10a will resemble the Pixel 9a, with a flat camera housing and gently curved body.


    Google seems to have wrapped up its main Pixel 10 smartphone lineup after the simultaneous release of the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL on August 28. While these three models were accompanied by the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, which was introduced during an event on August 20, it took Google around six weeks to start sending out pre-orders for this latest foldable device (currently priced at $1,799 on Amazon).

    Anticipation for the Next Model

    Now, all eyes are on what Google will do next in its smartphone lineup. It’s not surprising that the tech giant is likely to return to the mid-range segment with the Pixel 10a. Android Headlines has recently shared multiple CAD renderings of this new model. To provide some background, rumors about the Pixel 10a first came to light as early as January 2025.

    Specs and Features Leaked

    In more recent leaks, it has been confirmed that the Pixel 10a will feature the same Tensor G4 chipset as the existing Pixel 9a. It seems that next year’s mid-range Pixel will be slightly shorter and narrower than its predecessor, all while maintaining the same 6.3-inch display size. If the dimensions reported by Android Headlines of 153.9 x 72.9 x 9 mm are correct, the Pixel 10a might offer a better screen-to-body ratio than the Pixel 9a.

    Similar Design Elements

    Aside from these changes, the Pixel 10a looks very much like its predecessor, with a nearly flat camera housing, a gently curved body, and a flat display. Google is expected to replace the Pixel 9a in the spring of 2026. However, specific launch dates and complete specifications are still a mystery at this point.

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  • New Sundial Keypad for Premium Modular Dumb Phone Revealed

    New Sundial Keypad for Premium Modular Dumb Phone Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sundial Keypad is a new accessory for the minimalist modular mobile, designed to improve music playback and device navigation.
    2. It features a circular dial with nine buttons, including four soft-touch media controls and four preprogrammed buttons for key apps.
    3. The keypad is modular and attaches magnetically to the phone, allowing for easy swapping and customization.
    4. The initial production batch includes 1,000 keypads priced at $29, with silicone cases available for $10 each or bundle options for $100.
    5. Pre-orders for the Sidephone SP-01 began on October 16th, with expected shipping for Sundial accessories set for January 2026.


    Sidephone has recently introduced a new accessory for its minimalist modular mobile: the Sundial Keypad. This innovative control tile is designed to enhance music playback and make device navigation simpler. The announcement was shared on the official Sidephone Reddit account, showcasing the Sundial’s design and its practical use, which visually resembles the iPod control wheel, though they do not function the same.

    Features of the Sundial Keypad

    The Sundial Keypad is characterized by a unique circular dial featuring a total of nine buttons. Within the dial, there are four soft-touch controls that handle media playback, including options for previous track, skip, volume up, and volume down, with a glass center button for play/pause. Additionally, there are four corner buttons that come preprogrammed for key apps like Phone, Messages, Camera, and Clock. All nine buttons can be fully reprogrammed through the Sidephone’s settings menu. The keypad is designed to be modular, attaching magnetically to the phone’s base, allowing for quick swaps. Along with the Sundial Keypad, Sidephone will launch eight new colors of silicone cases for easy customization. In an initial demo video, the Sundial keypad was seen being inserted directly into a production model by Sidephone’s manufacturing partner located in Shenzhen.

    Pricing and Availability

    The first production batch will consist of 1,000 Sundial keypads in silver/white, with a possible silver/black version if there’s enough demand. The price for the keypad is set at $29, while each silicone case will cost $10. Buyers can also choose bundle options, mixing and matching three different cases and three keypad types for a total of $100. The Sundial accessories are expected to ship with the first Founders Edition Sidephone devices, aiming for delivery in January 2026. It’s important to note that US pre-orders for the Sidephone SP-01 began earlier this month on October 16th.

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  • Galaxy Z Fold 8 Addresses Major Foldable Issue with Big Battery

    Galaxy Z Fold 8 Addresses Major Foldable Issue with Big Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Crease Removal: The Galaxy Z Fold 8 may use an ASP laser-drilled metal plate to eliminate the visible display crease, a major issue in foldable smartphones.

    2. Enhanced Battery Life: The device is expected to feature a battery larger than 5,000 mAh, improving on the 4,400 mAh battery of the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

    3. S Pen Return: The Galaxy Z Fold 8 might reintroduce S Pen support, which was absent in the Galaxy Z Fold 7, aiming for a better user experience.

    4. Competitive Enhancements: Samsung is likely to implement additional improvements to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 to compete with Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone.

    5. Key Selling Point: Successfully addressing the crease issue could make the Galaxy Z Fold 8 a significant upgrade and a major selling point for Samsung.


    We shared in July that the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 might feature an ASP laser-drilled metal plate to tackle the problem of the display crease. The visible crease on the screen has been a major challenge for foldable smartphones since they first came out. Although companies like Samsung have made strides in lessening its size and visibility, the crease still remains a noticeable issue.

    Major Improvement Ahead

    If Samsung succeeds in removing the display crease in the Galaxy Z Fold 8 next year, it would mark a significant enhancement and potentially become a key selling point. The Korean news outlet Deal Site has now verified, through sources in the industry, that Samsung is indeed utilizing this laser-drilled metal plate to address the crease problem. Remarkably, this solution is also anticipated to be used in the foldable iPhone.

    Battery Life Boost

    Alongside the removal of the display crease, Deal Site indicates that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 could feature a battery exceeding 5,000 mAh. This would be a notable upgrade from the Galaxy Z Fold 7 (available on Amazon), which currently uses a 4,400 mAh battery.

    The Return of the S Pen

    Besides the crease reduction, the most exciting news about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is the rumored comeback of the S Pen. Deal Site mentions that “high expectations are also held” for the S Pen’s inclusion in the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Samsung omitted S Pen support from the Galaxy Z Fold 7, likely to keep the display thinner.

    Lastly, Deal Site hints that Samsung is mindful of Apple’s plan to launch a foldable iPhone in 2027. As a result, the company is said to be “likely to implement additional enhancements” to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 to ensure it competes well against the forthcoming iPhone Fold in 2027.

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  • Affordable Xiaomi Smartphone with Huge Battery Under $100

    Affordable Xiaomi Smartphone with Huge Battery Under $100

    Key Takeaways

    1. New battery technology has finally reached smartphones, highlighted by the Xiaomi Redmi 15C 4G’s 6,000 mAh battery.
    2. Battery capacities were previously limited in Europe and North America, but Xiaomi has now overcome these obstacles.
    3. Competing brands like OnePlus are introducing smartphones with even larger batteries, such as a 7,300 mAh option.
    4. The Xiaomi Redmi 15C 4G offers over 21 hours of battery life, making it a strong choice among budget devices.
    5. This model is a suitable secondary smartphone for users who don’t need 5G and have basic performance needs.


    Given the extensive research and advancements in electric car batteries, the arrival of new battery technology in smartphones could have happened much earlier. However, it now seems that this technology has finally made its way into devices like the Xiaomi Redmi 15C 4G. This model, which is priced between $100 and $150 depending on where you live, boasts an impressive 6,000 mAh battery.

    Battery Capacity and Market Trends

    For several months, battery capacities have been available in China, but they were limited in Europe and North America. The reasons for this limitation are unclear, and manufacturers have been tight-lipped about it. Fortunately, it seems that these obstacles have been overcome, and Xiaomi is now pushing forward with its offerings.

    Competing Brands and High-Capacity Options

    Xiaomi’s latest flagship series, the 17 series, also features high-capacity batteries, including a 7,000 mAh option. Many new smartphones are increasingly coming with larger batteries. OnePlus has revealed its new top model with a 7,300 mAh battery. It will be interesting to see if competitors like Samsung or Apple will follow suit as well.

    If you are on a budget or prefer not to spend too much, the Xiaomi Redmi 15C 4G is an excellent choice that still offers great durability. In our Wi-Fi testing, we recorded over 21 hours of battery life, which significantly outperforms other similar devices. Plus, it has a 120 Hz display that provides decent brightness and avoids PWM issues. The only downside is that the resolution could be improved.

    A Great Secondary Device

    The Xiaomi Redmi 15C 4G could serve as the perfect secondary smartphone, especially if you can do without 5G and have modest performance expectations. For more in-depth information, we suggest checking out our comprehensive review of the Xiaomi Redmi 15 4G.

  • Honor X6b Plus: 50MP Camera and SGS Drop Protection Features

    Honor X6b Plus: 50MP Camera and SGS Drop Protection Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Honor X6b Plus is an entry-level smartphone with limited performance and connectivity options, powered by the MediaTek Helio G85 processor.
    2. It features a 6.56-inch TFT display with a resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 780 nits, but lacks 5G support.
    3. The device includes a 50MP main camera and a 5MP front camera, with a 5100mAh battery and 35W charging speed.
    4. It offers some drop protection with SGS certification, a fingerprint sensor, and additional sensors like a gyroscope and compass.
    5. The smartphone comes with a USB Type-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and may include a case and pre-installed screen protector in the box.


    Honor has launched a new smartphone known as the X6b Plus. Currently, there are no specific details about its availability in Europe, and it’s possible that it may never be released outside of China. Despite having “Plus” in its title, this device is more aligned with the entry-level segment. It weighs 6.77 oz, has a thickness of around 0.33 inches, and is driven by the MediaTek Helio G85 processor, which is somewhat limited in both performance and connectivity options.

    Connectivity Limitations

    This budget-friendly Honor smartphone can accommodate two SIM cards. However, the integrated cellular modem in the chipset lacks support for 5G, which is a significant drawback as we move into 2025. The device features a 6.56-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels, which isn’t particularly impressive. That said, the TFT panel boasts a 90Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 780 nits. In comparison, many current AMOLED displays can reach over 1000 nits. The always-on feature allows users to see the time and some additional information at all times.

    Features and Build

    While the Honor X6b Plus isn’t classified as a rugged smartphone, it does offer some level of drop protection with an SGS certification, which can help prevent major damage from falls from certain heights. The device is equipped with a 50MP main camera, but the front camera only comes with 5MP. Additionally, the 5100mAh battery is not particularly large, and its charging speed, though respectable at 35 watts, isn’t extremely fast.

    Among other features, the smartphone includes a fingerprint sensor, gyroscope, compass, and an ambient light sensor. Furthermore, it has a USB Type-C port along with a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. Depending on the variant, the Honor X6b Plus may come with a case and a pre-installed screen protector. To wrap it up, a charger and USB cable are also provided within the box.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold Launching Soon: Official Announcement

    Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold Launching Soon: Official Announcement

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Galaxy TriFold has officially debuted as an innovative foldable smartphone.
    2. Journalists and guests were unable to physically test the device, as it was displayed behind glass.
    3. The Galaxy TriFold features a primary screen that measures 6.5 inches when folded and expands to about 10 inches when unfolded.
    4. Samsung plans to produce between 50,000 to 100,000 units of the Galaxy TriFold, targeting select countries for its release.
    5. The official release of the Galaxy TriFold is expected later this year, but it will not be aimed at the mass market.


    The Samsung Galaxy TriFold has made its official debut, and it’s no longer just a concept. Samsung recently showcased this innovative foldable smartphone in person, rather than just through images. It was revealed at the K-Tech Showcase, which is part of the lead-up to the APEC 2025 Summit.

    Limited Access for Observers

    Sadly, journalists and guests could not get a hands-on experience with the Galaxy TriFold. They were not permitted to hold or test the device. Instead, two units were displayed behind glass, as many had speculated. One of the units was shown unfolded, while the other remained folded. Since both sides of the device can be folded, it offers a compact design, though it will be a bit bulkier because of its triple-fold feature.

    Specifications and Production Plans

    Recent information suggests that the Galaxy TriFold’s primary screen is about 6.5 inches wide, which is the size when the phone is folded. Once it is unfolded, the display expands to approximately 10 inches, potentially serving as a tablet substitute. Samsung aims to produce between 50,000 to 100,000 units of this new foldable model. Moreover, the company is not looking at a widespread global launch; instead, they will target select countries. The official release is expected later this year, but it won’t be aimed at the mass market.

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  • Oppo Find X9 and X9 Pro Leaked Ahead of Global Launch

    Oppo Find X9 and X9 Pro Leaked Ahead of Global Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo Find X9 will be priced similarly to the older OnePlus 13, which is $776 on Amazon.
    2. The OnePlus 15 is expected to have a 7,300 mAh battery, while the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro are rumored to have 7,025 mAh and 7,500 mAh batteries, respectively.
    3. The Find X9 will be limited to a maximum of 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage globally.
    4. The Find X9 Pro will also lack the 16 GB RAM and 1 TB storage options available in China.
    5. The global launch of the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro is set for tomorrow, following their recent reveal in China.


    Oppo is set to launch the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro worldwide tomorrow, just a few weeks after they were revealed in China. Meanwhile, leaks have already surfaced regarding the pricing in the Eurozone, along with the colors that will be available for the global launch.

    Pricing Surprises

    Interestingly, the Find X9 will be priced the same as the older OnePlus 13, which is currently listed at $776 on Amazon. This is surprising because the OnePlus 13 has more similarities with Oppo’s Pro version. To add context, OnePlus has just replaced the OnePlus 13 with the OnePlus 15 in China earlier today, and you can check our dedicated launch article for full details.

    Battery Specs

    Recent rumors suggest that the OnePlus 15 will come equipped with the same 7,300 mAh battery as seen in China, unlike the rumored Poco F8 Pro or Poco F8 Ultra from Xiaomi. It is also expected that the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro will feature similar batteries outside of China, with capacities of 7,025 mAh and 7,500 mAh for their silicon carbon batteries in Oppo’s domestic market.

    RAM and Storage Limitations

    Regrettably, a new leak from Paras Guglani indicates that the Find X9 will only offer a maximum of 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage globally, despite the availability of 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB options in China. Similarly, the international version of the Find X9 Pro will not include the 16 GB RAM and 1 TB storage configurations that Oppo provides in China. For more details about what to expect from Oppo’s upcoming global flagship phones, check out the images above and below.

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  • iPhone 20 Pro to Feature New Apple Camera Sensor, iPhone 18 Pro Upgrades

    iPhone 20 Pro to Feature New Apple Camera Sensor, iPhone 18 Pro Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 18 Pro will feature a primary camera with a variable aperture for improved depth of field in photography.
    2. A periscope telephoto camera with a wider aperture is expected in the iPhone 18 Pro, enhancing low-light photography and videography.
    3. Camera enhancements may be exclusive to the higher-end iPhone 18 Pro Max model.
    4. Apple is developing its own camera sensor using LOFIC technology, expected to debut in the 2027 anniversary iPhone.
    5. LOFIC technology improves dynamic range by allowing overexposed pixels to be read again, reducing detail loss in bright areas.


    Following chatter about the upcoming iPhone designs planned for the next three years, two sources are now shedding light on exciting camera enhancements that we can look forward to in the next two iPhone models. First off, leaker Digital Chat Station has confirmed previous speculations that the successor to the iPhone 17 Pro will include a primary camera with a variable aperture.

    Improved Depth of Field

    This feature will enable photographers to adjust the lens aperture as necessary, allowing for better depth of field in images. This is particularly helpful for taking clear photos of multiple subjects positioned at different distances. The iPhone 18 Pro is also anticipated to come equipped with a periscope telephoto camera that has a wider aperture. For context, the current 48 MP telephoto camera found in the iPhone 17 Pro uses a 1/2.55-inch sensor along with a 100 mm f/2.8 lens. A quicker lens should result in improved photography and videography in dim lighting conditions. Digital Chat Station suggests that these enhancements may only be available on the pricier iPhone 18 Pro Max.

    Future Technology Developments

    On another note, Korean leaker yeux1122 has disclosed that not only Chinese smartphone makers like Xiaomi, Honor, Huawei, Oppo, and Vivo are developing cameras with LOFIC sensors, but Apple is also reportedly working on its own camera sensor utilizing this tech. This sensor is expected to make its first appearance in the anniversary iPhone set for release in 2027. LOFIC stands for “Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor.” This innovative technology allows for overexposed pixels to be read a second time with reduced light sensitivity, which helps avoid the loss of details in overly bright areas of a photo. Consequently, this significantly boosts the dynamic range without needing to merge multiple differently exposed images into an HDR shot.

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