Category: Phones

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  • Google Pixel 10: Leaked Affordable Qi2 Stand and 67W Charger

    Google Pixel 10: Leaked Affordable Qi2 Stand and 67W Charger

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro will be revealed on August 20.
    2. A new 67-watt charger will be introduced, upgraded from the previous 45-watt version.
    3. The charger supports simultaneous charging for the Pixel 10 and Pixel Buds and is priced at C$79.
    4. A protective case for the Pixel 10 is available for C$69, featuring a magnetic ring for Qi2 accessories.
    5. The new Google Qi2 Wireless Charger + Stand is priced at C$99 and offers improved alignment for faster charging.


    The Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro are set to be revealed on Wednesday, August 20. Just ahead of the launch, Canadian retailer DirectDial has started showcasing new accessories that seem to be designed by Google. It looks like Google is introducing a new 67-watt charger, which is an upgrade from their existing 45-watt USB-C charger.

    Charger Power Details

    Previous leaks suggest that the Pixel 10 Pro XL can only handle a maximum charging power of 39 watts. With the new higher wattage, the charger can also support charging for more energy-efficient laptops. Moreover, it includes a second USB-C port, allowing users to charge their Pixel 10 and Pixel Buds simultaneously. This charger is priced at C$79. The official protective case for the Pixel 10 is available for C$69, which is C$20 more than the Pixel 9’s case. It reportedly features a magnetic ring designed for Qi2 accessories, as indicated by an earlier leak.

    New Wireless Charging Stand

    One of the most notable accessories highlighted by DirectDial is the Google Qi2 Wireless Charger + Stand. This product seems to be the successor to the Pixel Stand 2 and uses magnets to securely hold the smartphone in place, ensuring optimal alignment with the charging coil for faster and more effective charging. The stand is priced at C$99, making it more affordable than the Pixel Stand 2, which was launched in Canada at C$109.

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  • iPhone Users in India Report Annoying “Recharge Now” Messages

    iPhone Users in India Report Annoying “Recharge Now” Messages

    Key Takeaways

    1. A Reddit user reported a constant “Recharge now” message on their iPhone 12 Pro after reaching their Airtel prepaid data limit, expressing disappointment in Apple’s handling of the situation.

    2. Other Airtel users confirmed similar experiences, suggesting the issue may be part of a phased test, while some reported never encountering the alert.

    3. Concerns were raised about Airtel potentially misusing the emergency broadcast channel for data warnings, with some users labeling it unethical.

    4. Discussions included Apple’s role, with some users feeling that Apple is complicit in allowing carriers to misuse notification spaces, while others argued it’s not Apple’s fault.

    5. The problem appears to be limited to certain regions, including India and Turkey, where some service providers have taken over the phone interface for data-related notifications.


    A user named u/grmln_rsn on r/ios has ignited a heated conversation after they shared that their iPhone 12 Pro showed a constant “Recharge now” message on the home screen when they used up their Airtel prepaid daily data limit. “I can handle a pop-up notification, but this is too much,” they expressed. “I didn’t think Apple would do something like this.” The user seemed quite let down by the experience.

    User Responses

    Several other Airtel users chimed in to confirm the same problem. Redditor u/Frequent-Extreme-881 mentioned, “I’m on Airtel (India) and I get this almost daily,” suggesting it might be a phased test, as they just started noticing the notification recently. On the other hand, u/prabhat35 remarked that they had run out of data “countless times” but had never encountered the alert.

    Ethical Concerns

    Another Reddit user, u/WolframBravo, proposed that Airtel might be misusing the emergency broadcast channel, which is typically used for alerts about natural disasters, to send out data warnings. They labeled it “unethical,” whereas user r/Mr-Pomeroy added, “If this is true, that’s really dark and should be against the law.” Some people initially believed it was a Flash SMS, but r/WolframBravo pointed out that Flash SMS operates differently.

    The Role of Apple

    Discussions also revolved around Apple’s involvement. r/Anonymous_linux stated, “The carrier can’t send random messages to random spots in iOS unless Apple gives them the green light,” calling it a “betrayal of trust.” In contrast, user r/MrKuub argued: “Apple must permit the use of that space because it’s meant for real emergency alerts… It’s not Apple’s fault if your carrier misuses that feature.”

    The issue seems to be limited to certain regions, with Reddit users mentioning similar incidents in India and even Turkey, where some service providers allegedly took over the entire phone interface until users added more credit.

    In spite of the varying opinions, some believe Apple should prevent such intrusive practices, asserting that Airtel’s method only strengthens their determination to oppose what they view as shady practices.

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  • Tensor G5 Fails to Impress in Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Benchmarks

    Tensor G5 Fails to Impress in Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Benchmarks

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 10 series will launch worldwide on August 20.
    2. The Pixel 10 Pro XL has shown disappointing benchmark scores compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
    3. The Pixel 10 Pro XL achieved a CPU score of 313,500 and a GPU score of 394,695, both lower than the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
    4. The unusual benchmark results may be due to the Pixel 10 Pro XL being a demo unit.
    5. Initial impressions based on these benchmarks may not be final, as CPU performance could be competitive with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and 8 Gen 3.


    The Google Pixel 10 series is set to launch worldwide on August 20. As has become common with Google’s products, these phones have been seen in real life, and a new, somewhat dubious leak has shown the lackluster performance of the Tensor G5 in the Pixel 10 Pro XL.

    Benchmark Results

    According to a post on Reddit, the Pixel 10 Pro XL was evaluated on the well-known benchmarking site AnTuTu, where it was compared to last year’s Pixel 9 Pro XL. The new flagship device fails to impress, achieving only a CPU score of 313,500. Interestingly, the Pixel 9 Pro XL scores 181,033—much lower than what it has previously achieved in the same test. The Pixel’s strange performance continues on the graphical side, with the Pixel 10 Pro XL scoring a mere 394,695, which is less than the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s score of 447,118.

    Unclear Issues

    What’s puzzling about the benchmark scores is that both the Pixel 10 Pro XL and the 9 Pro XL have results that don’t align with past performances. The Pixel 9 Pro XL normally achieves over 370,000 on AnTuTu 10’s CPU test, but this time it barely reaches half of that. Compared to the usual results for the Pixel 9 Pro XL (buy on Amazon), the Pixel 10 Pro XL shows poorer performance on both CPU and GPU tests. This could possibly be due to it being a demo unit, as suggested by the user who posted the information.

    Conclusion

    Regardless, it’s best not to form a final opinion on Google’s upcoming flagship based solely on this test. It may still disappoint to some extent; however, an earlier Geekbench listing hinted that its CPU performance might fall somewhere between the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

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  • iPhone 17 Air Clone: Thinner Design Revealed in Recent Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is 5.8 mm thick, while the iPhone 17 Air is expected to be slimmer.
    2. Competing brands are struggling to create their own “Air” versions, with Tecno Spark Go being a notable exception.
    3. Leaked specifications for the Nubia Air show conflicting thickness measurements, originally reported as 6.7 mm but later updated to 5.9 mm.
    4. The 5.9 mm measurement pertains only to the mid-frame’s thickness, excluding the display and back glass.
    5. Nubia faces marketing scrutiny for presenting unrealistic claims about the phone’s thickness ahead of its official launch.


    The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge boasts a slim profile at just 5.8 mm thick, while the upcoming iPhone 17 Air is expected to be even sleeker. Competing brands are struggling to produce their own “Air” versions. One notable exception is the Tecno Spark Go, which is not only thicker but also lacks a similar name. The Nubia Air stands out in this space, as recent leaks have shared its specifications and first look. More official images have come from the same leak source, leaving us a bit puzzled. The promotional image below raised some eyebrows since it indicated that the Nubia device had a different thickness than previously reported.

    Conflicting Thickness Measurements

    A glance at the leaked specifications shows a thickness of 6.7 mm, but now this has been updated to just 5.9 mm. It seems unlikely that 0.8 mm was shaved off so quickly during the final production stages, so we examined the footnote closely. It mentions that the 5.9 mm measurement comes from Nubia’s lab and only pertains to the mid-frame’s thickness. This situation reminds us of Honor’s claim regarding the Magic V5, which states it is 8.8 mm thick, but only for a specific color option and without considering the screen protectors.

    Marketing Strategies Under Scrutiny

    Focusing solely on the frame and ignoring parts like the display and back glass feels like a step beyond Honor’s approach with screen protectors. Nubia doesn’t need to meet the 6 mm mark, especially since this mid-range phone houses a larger 5,000 mAh battery and is likely aimed at a different pricing tier.

    Despite the marketing department’s apparent pressure, Nubia seems to have put forth a rather unrealistic measurement. As the Nubia Air has yet to officially launch, it remains unclear whether the original thickness listed was a mistake. One can only hope that this is true and that the Nubia Air indeed measures 5.9 mm, even when including the display glass and rear panel.

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  • Xiaomi Reveals Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus Design Before Launch

    Xiaomi Reveals Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus Design Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Date: The Redmi Note 15 series will be unveiled in China on August 21, 2025.

    2. Design Features: The Redmi Note 15 Pro+ retains a similar rear design to the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus, featuring a 50 MP main camera with OIS and two additional cameras, including a 50 MP telephoto lens.

    3. Durability: The phone has a “double-side drop-resistant” design, can endure a 2-meter drop test 50 times, and has an IP69K rating for waterproof capabilities.

    4. Expected Specifications: It is rumored to have an OLED display with “1.5K” resolution, a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor, up to 16 GB of RAM, and a 7,000 mAh battery with 90 W fast charging.

    5. Updates: More official information will be shared through teasers on Weibo leading up to the launch.


    Xiaomi is all set to introduce the Redmi Note 15 series in China, with the latest announcements confirming that the series will be unveiled on August 21, 2025. Just days ahead of the full reveal, the company has shared a glimpse of the design for the Pro+ model, which appears to be quite similar to its predecessor.

    Design Similarities

    The rear design features a camera island akin to that of the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus, though it lacks the dual-tone aesthetic. Xiaomi has also revealed that the back will incorporate a 50 MP sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), along with two additional cameras. One of these is anticipated to be a 50 MP telephoto lens, while the other is likely an ultrawide sensor. Furthermore, Xiaomi points out that the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ boasts a fully curved display, which is designed to provide a premium look and comfortable feel in hand.

    Durability and Build Quality

    Xiaomi highlights that the Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus features a “double-side drop-resistant” design and utilizes “flagship Dragon Crystal Glass.” The device is claimed to withstand a 2-meter drop test 50 times, indicating that this mid-range smartphone is built to be quite durable against drops.

    In addition to its robust build, the phone has received an IP69K rating, which the company asserts grants it “true waterproof” capabilities, adding to its appeal for users seeking durability.

    Expected Specifications

    While Xiaomi has not disclosed extensive specifications for the Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus, recent leaks suggest that it will come with an OLED display featuring a “1.5K” resolution. It is believed to be powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 processor, paired with up to 16 GB of RAM. The mid-range device is also rumored to be equipped with a large 7,000 mAh battery that supports 90 W fast charging (150 W Anker 747 currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon). More official information is anticipated to be shared through teasers leading up to the August 21 launch.

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  • Apple May Skip iPhone 18 Launch in 2026, Rumors Suggest

    Apple May Skip iPhone 18 Launch in 2026, Rumors Suggest

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 17 series in September 2025.
    2. The current Plus model may be replaced with a new Air version in the lineup.
    3. There will likely be no standard iPhone 18 released in 2026.
    4. An entry-level iPhone 17e is set to launch in spring 2026.
    5. The new lineup for 2026 may include a Pro, Pro Max, Air, and a foldable phone.


    Apple is likely to announce the iPhone 17 series in September 2025, and recent reports indicate some significant changes in the line-up. The current Plus model will probably be substituted with a new Air version, and looking ahead to 2026, another report suggests that there won’t be a standard iPhone 18.

    New Lineup Details

    This information comes from ETNews, which cites sources within the industry. The Korean news outlet mentions that Apple is not intending to launch a standard iPhone 18 in 2026. Instead, the proposed line-up for 2026 is expected to include the Air, Pro, Pro Max, and a foldable phone, marking a first for the company.

    The Entry-Level Model

    Instead of a standard iPhone 18, the company is anticipated to introduce the iPhone 17e in spring 2026, which will serve as the entry-level model for that year. Furthermore, ETNews claims that the basic iPhone 18 will debut alongside the 18e in spring 2027, with newer foldable and high-end models to follow later.

    It’s important to note that this isn’t the first instance of the base iPhone 18 being reported as absent from the 2026 launch, as earlier rumors from various sources have indicated similar outcomes. This reshaped launch timeline seems to be aimed at enhancing the sales of Pro models, and it is thought to be a strategic decision to boost overall iPhone sales during the first half of the year.

    Confusion Ahead?

    Nonetheless, it remains to be seen whether or not these strategies, if Apple truly intends to implement them, will create confusion among consumers in 2026 and in subsequent years.

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  • Doogee S200 Ultra: Dual Displays and New SoC Previewed

    Doogee S200 Ultra: Dual Displays and New SoC Previewed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Doogee S200 Ultra features a 120Hz 6.72-inch LCD screen and a circular secondary display on the back.
    2. It includes a camera setup with a 20MP Sony night-vision camera and a 100MP main camera from Omnivision.
    3. The phone is expected to have a large 11,000mAh battery utilizing silicon-carbon technology for extended performance.
    4. It may offer 1TB of expandable storage and be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 processor.
    5. The S200 Ultra is anticipated to launch at a price of $569.99.


    Doogee has just announced the new S200 Max, which is rated IP68/IP69K/MIL-STD-810H. However, the brand is also preparing to unveil the flagship of its 2025 rugged smartphone series, known as the Ultra.

    Design and Display

    Featuring a stunning 120Hz 6.72-inch LCD screen, the Ultra resembles the S200 Plus currently available on Amazon, complete with a circular secondary display on the back.

    Camera Features

    The Ultra appears to carry over the camera setup from the Plus, which includes impressive features like a 20MP Sony night-vision camera and a rare 100MP main camera (identified as the OVA0B40 from Omnivision).

    Battery and Performance

    With a battery capacity that might be around half of that of the Max, it’s said to utilize silicon-carbon technology, potentially surpassing even the most enduring non-rugged phones of 2026 with an 11,000mAh capacity.

    The S200 Ultra is also anticipated to showcase a unique, Y-shaped LED accent on the back, which may serve as a notification and/or charging status light.

    Storage and Processor

    Rumors suggest that this model may offer 1TB of expandable storage, a significant upgrade from the 512GB found in the Plus and Max. Additionally, it is expected to be powered by the latest MediaTek Dimensity 7400 processor.

    Pricing

    Due to its advanced features, the S200 Ultra is expected to be priced at $569.99 when it launches.

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  • Asus Launches Android 16 Beta for ROG Phone 9 & 9 Pro

    Asus Launches Android 16 Beta for ROG Phone 9 & 9 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has released the ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro with Android 15, committing to only two OS updates for these devices.
    2. The Android 16 Beta Program is now open exclusively for the ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro, but not for the ROG Phone 9 FE.
    3. The ROG Phone 9 series is priced at €999 on Amazon.de, with Android 17 expected as the second update next year.
    4. To join the Android 16 Beta, users must enroll through the Settings app, agreeing to the notice and privacy policy.
    5. The beta software may have bugs, and users cannot revert to a stable version until the official Android 16 release.


    The ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro have just been released with Android 15, and although other brands are offering more, Asus has committed to providing only two OS updates for these flagship devices. Recently, the first of those updates has been announced. Asus is now opening the Android 16 Beta Program, which comes shortly after the Zenfone 12 Ultra’s Android 16 beta launch.

    Beta Program Details

    This Beta program is exclusively for the ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro. Unfortunately, the ROG Phone 9 FE, which was launched in February, is not part of this program and will also be limited to just two OS upgrades. Nonetheless, Android 16 represents one of the two updates for the ROG Phone 9 series, which is priced at €999 on Amazon.de, with the second update being Android 17 expected to arrive next year.

    How to Join the Beta

    Joining the Android 16 Beta program is pretty easy. First, open the Settings app, then go to System and choose System update. Click on the gear icon located in the top right corner, and select ‘Enroll in Android preview program.’ After that, read the notice and privacy policy before clicking ‘Agree.’ Just follow the remaining instructions to complete the process.

    Important Notes

    Keep in mind that this software is in beta, meaning you might encounter some bugs, which could be serious or minor. Asus has also stated that there won’t be a way to revert back to a stable version of Android, so you will remain on the beta until the official Android 16 is released. Asus hasn’t specified how long the beta testing will last, so stay tuned for updates!

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  • Xiaomi Announces Major Updates for Xiaomi 16 Series Smartphones

    Xiaomi Announces Major Updates for Xiaomi 16 Series Smartphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 16 series will debut at the end of September in China, featuring Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset.
    2. Significant changes and major modifications are expected in the new lineup compared to the Xiaomi 15 models.
    3. The series is rumored to include four devices, including a new Xiaomi 16 Pro Max with a rear display.
    4. The Xiaomi 16 Pro is likely to be a smaller and less premium option than the Xiaomi 15 Pro.
    5. Anticipated hardware improvements include larger batteries, upgraded cameras, and enhanced audio components.


    The Xiaomi 16 series is set to debut at the end of September in China, making it one of the first to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset. Over recent months, leaks have unveiled important details about the devices, and Xiaomi has now indicated that there will be “significant changes” coming with this new lineup.

    New Features and Changes

    According to Lu Weibing, the president of the company, the Xiaomi 16 series will introduce major modifications compared to last year’s Xiaomi 15 (buy on Amazon) models. Though he did not share specific details, he mentioned that the series would undergo substantial shifts in its product positioning and definition, which seems to confirm earlier speculations about a major overhaul in the lineup.

    Device Variants and Specifications

    Rumors suggest that the Xiaomi 16 series will consist of four different devices, including a brand-new Xiaomi 16 Pro Max. This model is expected to be the successor to the Xiaomi 15 Pro and is rumored to feature a rear display. The Xiaomi 16 Pro, on the other hand, is likely to be a smaller and possibly less premium option compared to its predecessor, the Xiaomi 15 Pro.

    Hardware Improvements

    Additionally, there are many hardware enhancements anticipated for the Xiaomi 16 series. The devices are expected to come equipped with larger batteries, upgraded cameras, and probably enhanced audio components, similar to what was seen in the Redmi K80 Extreme Edition.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Beats Xiaomi 15 Ultra in Sales Report

    Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Beats Xiaomi 15 Ultra in Sales Report

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S25 Ultra launched in early 2025, competing with high-end Android smartphones like Vivo X200 Ultra, Oppo Find X8 Ultra, and Xiaomi 15 Ultra.

    2. Xiaomi 15 Ultra was the top seller among competitors, with 586,000 units sold, while Samsung shipped 8.39 million Galaxy S25 Ultra units.

    3. Sales figures from Ice Universe are unverified and may only reflect the Chinese market.

    4. The S25 Ultra features a 1440p Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and a customized Snapdragon 8 Elite processor with unique S Pen capabilities.

    5. Despite its strengths, the S25 Ultra faced challenges in camera performance tests, being outperformed by competitors like the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra.


    The Galaxy S25 Ultra made its entrance in early 2025, quickly followed by a series of high-end Android smartphones with similar specifications and names.

    Competitors in the Market

    These include the Vivo X200 Ultra, Oppo Find X8 Ultra, and Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Notably, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra was reported to be the top seller among the three, achieving 586,000 units sold by the end of June 2025, while Vivo and Oppo sold 219,000 and 210,000 units, respectively.

    In stark contrast, Samsung managed to ship a remarkable 8.39 million units of its flagship device in the same timeframe. The Galaxy S24 Ultra didn’t fare as well, with just 7.65 million units sold by June 2024.

    Unverified Numbers

    However, these statistics come from a report shared on X by the well-known leaker Ice Universe, and it’s unclear whether these figures reflect global sales or are limited to the Chinese market.

    The S25 Ultra has some advantages over its Ultra counterparts, including an anti-glare 1440p Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, powered by a customized version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, which is overclocked to 4.47GHz. It also boasts unique S Pen capabilities.

    Camera Performance Challenges

    Despite these strengths, the S25 Ultra has struggled in various camera tests conducted by DxOMark, where it has been outperformed by models like the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra, which is not included in the sales data, likely due to its non-Android operating system, even with Samsung’s impressive 200MP main camera and advanced AI features.

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