Category: Phones

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  • Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Aims for New AnTuTu Record with Faster GPU

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Aims for New AnTuTu Record with Faster GPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Snapdragon 8 Elite has achieved ~2.9 million AnTuTu scores, making it the current benchmark champion with the RedMagic 10S Pro+.
    2. The upcoming “11 Ultra” is rumored to potentially reach a score of 4 million, aiming to surpass the current record.
    3. The Adreno 840 GPU in the Elite 2 has a maximum speed of ~1.2GHz, an upgrade from the previous model’s 1.1GHz.
    4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is expected to feature advanced ARM’s Scalable Vector Extension 2 (SVE2) and Scalable Matrix Extension (SME) for enhanced performance.
    5. The Elite 2 will power next-gen devices like the Honor Magic8 Pro, Xiaomi 16, and OnePlus 15, with the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra expected to lead with a custom chipset version reaching up to 4.74GHz.


    The Snapdragon 8 Elite’s newest Leading Version has astonishingly hit the ~2.9 million mark in AnTuTu scores, claiming the title of the benchmark’s current champion with the RedMagic 10S Pro+.

    Surpassing Expectations

    Rumor has it that its upcoming successor, the “11 Ultra,” is set to outshine this achievement, potentially becoming one of the first devices globally to reach a score of 4 million, as per a recent leak.

    Enhanced Performance

    The Adreno 840 GPU found in the Elite 2 is believed to play a significant role in achieving these impressive scores, boasting a maximum speed of ~1.2GHz, which is an upgrade from the 1.1GHz in the previous 830 model.

    Next-Gen Devices

    This second-generation 8 Elite, also known as “Qualcomm SM8850,” is expected to include its variant of ARM’s latest Scalable Vector Extension 2 (SVE2) along with Scalable Matrix Extension (SME) features to enhance its octa-core Oryon CPU, which is said to have a straightforward layout of 2 prime and 6 performance cores.

    The 8 Elite 2 is anticipated to power various next-generation gadgets like the Honor Magic8 Pro, Xiaomi 16, and OnePlus 15. However, these devices may be surpassed by the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, thanks to its custom ‘for Galaxy’ version of the same chipset.

    It is now forecasted to reach a peak speed of 4.74GHz, an upgrade over the estimated ~4.6GHz of the standard variant of this chipset, ensuring it remains at the forefront of mobile technology.

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  • Realme 15 Pro Launch: Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 & 144Hz Display

    Realme 15 Pro Launch: Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 & 144Hz Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Realme has introduced the 15 series, consisting of the Realme 15 and Realme 15 Pro, without a Pro+ version.
    2. The Realme 15 Pro features a 7,000 mAh battery with 80 W wired charging, but no wireless charging option.
    3. The camera system includes a dual rear setup with a 50 MP main sensor and ultrawide lens, and a 50 MP front camera.
    4. It is powered by a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, with options for up to 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, but lacks expandable storage.
    5. The Realme 15 Pro boasts a 6.8-inch AMOLED curved display with 1.5k resolution, a 144 Hz refresh rate, and starts at INR 28,999 ($335).


    Realme has broadened its numerical series with the unveiling of the new Realme 15 series smartphones. This series features two models: the Realme 15 and the Realme 15 Pro. Interestingly, there’s no Pro+ version this time, which means the Pro model directly follows the Realme 14 Pro+, while the standard Realme 15 takes the place of the Realme 14 Pro.

    Notable Upgrades in the Pro Model

    The Realme 15 Pro offers significant enhancements compared to its predecessor. For starters, the phone is equipped with a much larger battery—now at 7,000 mAh—with support for 80 W wired charging. However, it’s important to note that wireless charging isn’t available. The camera system has also seen major improvements, featuring a dual rear camera setup that includes a 50 MP Sony IMX896 main sensor alongside a 50 MP ultrawide lens, a clear upgrade from the 8 MP of the previous Realme 14 Pro+.

    Enhanced Front Camera and Performance

    On the front, you’ll find a remarkable 50 MP camera, which is a big leap from the older 32 MP selfie camera found in the Realme 14 Pro+. In terms of performance, the device is driven by a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, with options for up to 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage, though it lacks expandable storage. The software on the phone is Realme UI 6, running on Android 15 straight out of the box.

    AI Features and Design

    Realme has also integrated new AI-enhanced editing tools into the smartphone, including features named AI Edit Genie and AI Party. Despite having a larger battery, the phone maintains a slim profile at just 7.69 mm (0.3 inches) thick and weighs 187 grams (0.41 lbs). The Realme 15 Pro showcases a 6.8-inch AMOLED curved display that supports a 1.5k resolution, a 144 Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 6,500 nits. Additionally, it comes with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i for protection.

    The Realme 15 Pro is available in flowing silver, velvet green, and silk purple. The pricing starts at INR 28,999 ($335) for the base model with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, while the 8 GB + 256 GB version is priced at INR 30,999 ($360). The high-end model, which offers 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, retails for INR 35,999 ($415). Pre-orders for the Realme 15 series are already open, and general sales will begin on July 30 on Realme India’s official website and through authorized retailers.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Gets Exciting Charging Upgrade

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Gets Exciting Charging Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to feature improved charging capabilities, supporting 60 W or possibly 65 W wired charging.
    2. The standard Galaxy S26 may not receive better charging options, likely remaining at 25 W charging, while the S26 Plus may have some enhancements.
    3. The Galaxy S26 Ultra could have a larger battery, potentially increasing to 5,500 mAh.
    4. There is uncertainty about whether the battery size will change, as some reports suggest it may remain at 5,000 mAh.
    5. Overall, the Galaxy S26 Ultra aims to address past criticisms regarding battery and charging features.


    Samsung has faced some backlash over the years due to its unimpressive battery and charging features. However, that could soon change with fresh reports suggesting significant improvements for the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    Exciting Charging Upgrades

    According to Ice Universe, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to come with enhanced charging capabilities. The leaker mentions that the next flagship device will support 60 W wired charging, which is a notable enhancement from the 45 W charging standard that Samsung introduced back in 2019 with the Galaxy Note 10+. Yet, another source hints that the new standard might actually be 65 W instead.

    Uncertain Specs for Other Models

    It’s still uncertain whether the less expensive Galaxy S26 models will feature better charging options. The Galaxy S26 Plus might have this improvement, but it seems the standard Galaxy S26 will likely miss out, especially since the Galaxy S25 (available on Amazon) is limited to 25 W charging.

    Potential Battery Upgrade

    Besides enhanced charging, the Galaxy S26 Ultra could also boast a bigger battery. Well-known leaker Chunvn8888 suggests that the flagship device will come with a 5,500 mAh battery. However, other reports indicate that Samsung might stick with the 5,000 mAh battery found in earlier models. We will keep you posted on any developments regarding this matter.

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  • Anker Launches Ultra-Thin Connector Cable for Easy Use

    Anker Launches Ultra-Thin Connector Cable for Easy Use

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anker has launched a new Zolo USB-A to USB-C Cable in Europe, available in two lengths: 1 m (3.3 ft) and 1.8 m (6 ft).
    2. The cable supports up to 18W of power and 480 Mbps file transfer speeds, and is designed for seamless CarPlay functionality.
    3. It features a durable design with USB-IF certification, capable of withstanding over 12 kg of tension and more than 10,000 bends.
    4. The cable is available in black or white, with a soft braided exterior and a sleek aluminum USB-C connector.
    5. Pricing for the cable in Europe is £9.99/€11.99 for the 1 m version and £10.99/€12.99 for the 1.8 m version, with plans for US availability later this year at a projected price of $11.99 for the 1 m version.


    Anker has introduced a fresh Zolo USB-A to USB-C Cable in Europe. It comes in two lengths: 1 m (3.3 ft) and 1.8 m (6 ft). This new addition complements the existing Anker Zolo USB-C to USB-C Cable (3.3 ft/6 ft, 240W, Braided), which made its debut in 2024.

    Features of the Cable

    The Zolo USB-A to USB-C cable, identified as model A8052, is marketed for ‘seamless CarPlay’ functionality. It enables users to navigate, enjoy music, or answer calls while on the road, all while charging the phone at the same time. The cable supports up to 18W of power and can facilitate file transfers at a speed of 480 Mbps. It has received USB-IF certification, indicating its ability to endure over 12 kg (~26 lbs) of tension and more than 10,000 bends. With a choice of black or white, the cable boasts a 48-strand braided exterior, making it both soft and smooth to the touch. Additionally, it features a sleek aluminum USB-C connector measuring 10 x 5.8 mm (~0.4 x 0.2 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    You can find both the 1 m and 1.8 m versions of the Anker Zolo USB-A to USB-C Cable (1 m/1.8 m, Braided) in European nations such as the UK and Germany priced at £9.99/€11.99 and £10.99/€12.99, respectively. A recent study indicates that these cables will also soon be available in the US, with plans for a launch later this year. In the US market, the Anker Zolo USB-A to USB-C Cable (1 m, Braided) is projected to cost $11.99. This will place it at a higher price point compared to the Anker Zolo USB-C to USB-C Cable (3 ft, 240W, Braided), which is currently listed for $8.99 on Amazon; a similar trend is observed in European pricing as well.

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  • Galaxy S26 SoC Leak: Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Boosts Clock by 6%

    Galaxy S26 SoC Leak: Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Boosts Clock by 6%

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 series will feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 processor, based on TSMC technology.
    2. Qualcomm may use both Samsung SF2 and TSMC N3P nodes for different versions of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, leading to varied smartphone segments.
    3. Budget-friendly “flagship killers” may emerge from Chinese brands using the less expensive Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, while high-end devices like the Galaxy S26 Ultra will use the premium version.
    4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy will have speeds up to 4.74 GHz, providing a 6% boost in single-core performance over its predecessor.
    5. Samsung may choose to use the Exynos 2600 in some regions for the S26 series, which is manufactured on Samsung’s SF2 2 nm process node.


    Another day brings more news about the Galaxy S26. The well-known leaker UniverseIce has suggested that the upcoming Galaxy S26 series will feature Qualcomm’s newest flagship SoC for smartphones, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2.

    Details About the Processor

    According to the leaker’s post on X, the Galaxy S26 lineup will utilize the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy, which is based on TSMC technology. The mention of “with TSMC” technology is quite intriguing, as there have been rumors that Qualcomm might also be utilizing Samsung’s SF2 node for a different version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. This alternate version is expected to be less expensive than the TSMC version, possibly using the TSMC N3P 3 nm process node.

    Different Smartphone Segments

    Qualcomm’s strategy of using both Samsung SF2 and TSMC N3P nodes could lead to two distinct classes of Android smartphones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. One segment may offer more budget-friendly “flagship killers,” especially from Chinese manufacturers like Oppo and Xiaomi, which will use the less expensive Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. The other segment could feature true high-end flagship devices like the Galaxy S26 Ultra, equipped with the premium Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 manufactured on the TSMC node.

    Performance Enhancements

    Furthermore, UniverseIce states that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 for Galaxy in the S26 series will operate at speeds of up to 4.74 GHz. This represents a 6% boost in clock speed compared to the previous Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, which is expected to significantly enhance the single-core performance of the chipset.

    In conclusion, while UniverseIce indicates that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will be present in all Galaxy S26 models, it wouldn’t be surprising if Samsung opts to use the Exynos 2600 in certain regions. Reportedly, the Exynos 2600 is manufactured using Samsung’s SF2 2 nm process node and has shown good performance in its pre-release testing.

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  • Qi2 25W Wireless Charging Officially Supports Pixel 10 Series

    Qi2 25W Wireless Charging Officially Supports Pixel 10 Series

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Qi2 standard (Qi v2.2.1) allows for fast wireless charging up to 25 W, an increase from the previous maximum of 15 W.
    2. Market research by WPC shows that faster wireless charging is the most desired feature by users.
    3. Major Android smartphones are expected to support the new 25 W charging, with the Pixel 10 series likely being among the first.
    4. Google is rumored to be creating a wireless charging accessory called “Pixelsnap” for the Pixel 10 series, possibly featuring magnetic charging.
    5. The new Qi2 25 W standard will also be compatible with the latest iPhone models that support MagSafe, but it’s uncertain if the upcoming iPhone 16 series will include this support.


    Wireless charging technology for smartphones has just gotten a boost with the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) unveiling the next-generation Qi2 standard. This updated version, called Qi v2.2.1, allows for fast charging of up to 25 W. In contrast, the previous version only managed a maximum of 15 W, marking a significant improvement.

    Market Insights

    In an official statement, WPC provided insights from their market analysis. Their research indicates that quicker wireless charging is the “most sought-after feature by users,” and with the new Qi2 wireless charging protocol, it appears that this demand has been met.

    Compatibility Expectations

    Regarding compatibility, WPC mentioned that “major Android smartphones” will be able to utilize this faster wireless charging technology, although they did not name any specific devices. Considering that Google has been assisting in enhancing Qi2 charging speeds, it is likely that the upcoming Pixel 10 series will be among the first to adopt the new 25 W wireless charging standard.

    Future Accessories

    There have also been rumors that Google is developing a new wireless charging accessory named “Pixelsnap.” This gadget is expected to provide a magnetic charging upgrade for the Pixel 10 series. However, it remains uncertain if Google’s future flagship smartphones will come equipped with built-in magnets.

    As for devices with integrated magnets, the new Qi2 25 W standard will also be compatible with the Apple iPhone. The latest models already support 25 W fast wireless charging via MagSafe using a 30 W power adapter (30 W Ugreen Nexode GaN charger curr. $12.99 on Amazon). WPC emphasizes that to achieve the improved charging speed, support for the Qi 2.2.1 specification is needed, and it’s still unclear if the iPhone 16 series will include this support.

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  • iPhone 17 Pro Could Ditch Samsung and LG Screens in One Country

    iPhone 17 Pro Could Ditch Samsung and LG Screens in One Country

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple typically uses South Korean firms, primarily Samsung and LG, for Pro model displays, while other models may use more affordable LTPS OLED screens from Chinese manufacturer BOE.
    2. BOE might start producing higher-end ProMotion displays for the upcoming iPhone 17 series, potentially marking a significant change in Apple’s display sourcing.
    3. The inclusion of BOE’s LTPO OLED screens in Pro models is currently expected to be limited to devices sold in China.
    4. Mass production of BOE screens is anticipated to be approved by the end of July, indicating they are close to meeting Apple’s quality standards.
    5. Most displays for the iPhone 17 series will still come from South Korea, with Samsung and LG projected to supply the majority of panels.


    The distinction has always been quite clear: The two Pro models in Apple’s yearly iPhone lineup feature screens made by South Korean firms – mainly Samsung, with LG playing a smaller role – while the other models, like the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, sometimes incorporate more affordable LTPS OLED screens from Chinese manufacturers, notably BOE, which is based in Beijing.

    Possible Changes Ahead

    Recently, there have been some mentions about BOE potentially getting the chance to produce Apple’s higher-end ProMotion displays. However, Apple’s strict quality control has been a hurdle – until now, it seems. According to sources from the supply chain, the South Korean publication DealSite has reported that the upcoming iPhone 17 series could be the first to tentatively include BOE’s LTPO OLED screens in its Pro models. As of now, this change looks to be limited to devices sold specifically in China.

    Production Timeline

    It’s anticipated that the mass production of these BOE screens will be approved by the end of July. The small scale for this country-specific launch indicates that BOE may not fully satisfy Apple’s standards yet, but they are reportedly very close. Additionally, the publication suggests that involving another display supplier might be part of Apple’s tactic to encourage its South Korean partners to lower their component prices – a possibility that seems reasonable given the existing tariff issues. Still, most displays for the iPhone 17 series are expected to continue coming from South Korea, with projections of Samsung and LG providing 70 million and 43 million panels, respectively.

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  • Galaxy S26 Ultra Expected to Feature Significant Battery Upgrade

    Galaxy S26 Ultra Expected to Feature Significant Battery Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 Ultra may see an increase in charging wattage from 45 Watts to a potential 65 Watts.
    2. Battery capacity for the Galaxy S26 Ultra might stay at 5,000 mAh.
    3. It is uncertain if the standard Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+ will receive similar charging enhancements.
    4. The Galaxy S26 Ultra could be the first Samsung phone to feature a 1-inch camera sensor.
    5. Speculation around the Galaxy S26 series is growing as attention shifts from the recently announced Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7.


    Now that the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 have been announced, attention is shifting to Samsung’s upcoming major phone release: the Galaxy S26 series. The rumour mill is buzzing with lots of speculation surrounding these premium smartphones. Well-known leaker Ice Universe has shared some positive news for those interested in the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    Charging Improvements Ahead

    The Galaxy S26 Ultra will likely see a welcome upgrade in charging wattage. Samsung’s flagship phones have been stuck at 45 Watts for years, but the new model may finally boost that to a yet-to-be-announced number. A rise to 65 Watts seems like a good target, given Samsung’s cautious stance on smartphone batteries following the Galaxy Note 7 incident. That could be the limit for their high-end devices.

    Battery Concerns Persist

    Sadly, the battery capacity might remain at 5,000 mAh. This raises an important question: will the standard Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26+ receive the same enhancements? Additionally, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to feature more than just a faster charging option. It could also be the first Samsung device to come with a 1-inch camera sensor, although similar claims have been made about past Ultra models.

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  • Xiaomi 16 Ultra: Major Camera Upgrades and 7,500 mAh Battery Rumored

    Xiaomi 16 Ultra: Major Camera Upgrades and 7,500 mAh Battery Rumored

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is likely to unveil the Xiaomi 16 Ultra alongside a successor to the Xiaomi 15 at MWC 2026 in Barcelona, scheduled for March 2-5, 2026.
    2. Significant camera upgrades are expected for the Xiaomi 16 Ultra, described as ‘very shocking’ by insiders, though specific details are not yet available.
    3. Rumors suggest the Xiaomi 16 Ultra may feature a new 1-inch main camera, a 200 MP periscope telephoto camera, and an improved ultra-wide-angle camera with a Sony 50 MP sensor.
    4. The battery capacity for the Xiaomi 16 Ultra is rumored to be between 7,000 and 7,500 mAh, with 100 W wired and 50 W wireless charging support.
    5. The Xiaomi 16 Ultra is anticipated to be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 and will have thinner bezels compared to current flagship models.


    Xiaomi probably won’t bring out a new Xiaomi 15 Ultra until early next year. If we look at how the company has released products in the past, it seems likely that the Xiaomi 16 Ultra will be unveiled alongside a successor to the Xiaomi 15 (currently priced at $850 on Amazon) during the MWC 2026 event in Barcelona, which is set to take place from March 2 to March 5, 2026. However, some insiders have already hinted that they have information about the next flagship phone from Xiaomi.

    Major Camera Upgrades Expected

    Reports from Kartikey Singh indicate that the Xiaomi 16 Ultra will come with significant changes to the camera setup, especially when compared to the previous model. Still, the leaker hasn’t provided detailed info about these upgrades. They merely mention that these changes will be ‘very shocking’.

    New Camera Features Rumored

    Additionally, there are talks on Weibo suggesting that the Xiaomi 16 Ultra might feature a new 1-inch main camera. This could be combined with a 200 MP and 1/1.28-inch periscope telephoto camera. The main camera is said to produce images natively at 50 MP, boasting impressive dynamic range. There’s also speculation that an improved ultra-wide-angle camera using Sony’s 50 MP and 1/2-inch LYT-600 sensor will be included.

    Battery and Processor Details

    The Xiaomi 16 Ultra is rumored to come with a battery capacity ranging from 7,000 to 7,500 mAh, supporting 100 W wired and 50 W wireless charging. It’s also expected that Xiaomi will choose Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 to power the Xiaomi 16 Ultra, as well as the Xiaomi 16 and Xiaomi 16 Pro. While no design images have been leaked yet, it’s said that the phone will have even thinner bezels compared to the latest flagship models.

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  • Realme Narzo 80 Lite 4G: 90Hz Display & 6300mAh Battery

    Realme Narzo 80 Lite 4G: 90Hz Display & 6300mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Processor and Performance: The Narzo 80 Lite 4G features a Unisoc T7250 processor, with options for up to 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of expandable storage.

    2. Camera Setup: It includes a dual rear camera system with a 13 MP primary lens and a 5 MP front camera for selfies and video calls.

    3. Display: The smartphone boasts a 6.74-inch LCD screen with HD+ resolution and a 90 Hz refresh rate.

    4. Battery and Charging: It is equipped with a 6,300 mAh battery that supports 15 W wired charging and includes 6 W reverse wired charging.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The Narzo 80 Lite 4G starts at INR 7,299 ($85/€70) for the 4 GB + 64 GB version and will be available in India from July 28.


    Realme has launched the Narzo 80 Lite 4G model in India after introducing the Narzo 80 Lite 5G variant last month. This new budget-friendly smartphone offers a good range of features for its price point. When it comes to performance, Realme has chosen a Unisoc processor for this economical 4G phone.

    Specifications Overview

    Specifically, the Narzo 80 Lite is equipped with a Unisoc T7250 processor, which works in conjunction with up to 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, which can be expanded using a microSD card. The device operates on an unconfirmed version of Realme UI based on Android 15. As is often the case, there are no details about software support from Realme, suggesting that updates might not be provided.

    Camera Features

    For photography enthusiasts, this budget smartphone includes a dual rear camera setup featuring a 13 MP primary lens and a secondary camera, which specifications remain unmentioned. On the front, there’s a 5 MP camera designed for selfies and video calls. The Narzo 80 Lite 4G showcases a 6.74-inch LCD screen that has an HD+ resolution and a smooth 90 Hz refresh rate.

    Battery and Additional Features

    Moreover, Realme has integrated a substantial 6,300 mAh battery into the Narzo 80 Lite, which supports 15 W wired charging only. Interestingly, the device also features 6 W reverse wired charging. Additional attributes include an MIL-STD-810H certification, an IP54 rating, and a classic 3.5 mm headphone jack.

    The Realme Narzo 80 Lite 4G is available in beach gold and obsidian black shades, with the starting price set at INR 7,299 ($85/€70) for the basic 4 GB + 64 GB version. The 6 GB + 128 GB model is priced at INR 8,299 ($95/€80). In terms of availability, the smartphone will be up for sale in India starting July 28 through Realme’s website and Amazon.

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