Category: Phones

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  • Huawei Mate XT 2 Launch Expected with Premium Wearables Late 2024

    Huawei Mate XT 2 Launch Expected with Premium Wearables Late 2024

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei plans to release the ultra-high-end Mate XT Ultimate Design foldable phone in 2025.
    2. The Mate XT 2 is expected to launch in late September 2023, potentially before the Kirin 9030 processor is introduced.
    3. The XT 2 may feature the Kirin 9020 processor, offering an upgrade over the current XT’s 9010 chip.
    4. New companion devices, like the second-generation Huawei FreeClips wireless earphones, may be launched with the XT 2.
    5. The event could also showcase the “Watch GT 6” (and/or “6 Pro”), competing with top alternatives to the Apple Watch.


    Huawei is expected to expand its foldable series with a new version of the ultra-high-end Mate XT Ultimate Design, set to be released in 2025.

    Anticipated Launch Date

    The launch is forecasted to happen towards the end of September this year. This means that the Mate XT 2 event may occur before Huawei introduces its latest Kirin 9030 flagship mobile chip.

    Specifications and Upgrades

    As a result, the XT 2 might have to rely on the Kirin 9020 processor instead. However, this would still represent an improvement over the XT, which currently uses the 9010 chip. The successor could match the performance of the new Pura 80 Ultra, at least in some respects. Additionally, the XT 2 might come with new companion devices upon its release.

    One possibility is the second-generation Huawei FreeClips, a set of wireless earphones that may have influenced the design of other open-ear products since their launch in 2023. These earphones are available globally, even in the fresh Beige color.

    Additional Devices on the Horizon

    The “FreeClips 2” could be revealed alongside the “Watch GT 6” (and/or “6 Pro”) during the XT 2 event. If this happens, either smartwatch would compete with some of the leading alternatives to the Apple Watch currently available worldwide.

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  • Nubia Z70S Ultra: Premium Retro Smartphone with Excellent Camera

    Nubia Z70S Ultra: Premium Retro Smartphone with Excellent Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Design and Build: Features a vintage aesthetic inspired by classic cameras, with a luxurious feel but a somewhat cheap faux leather back. Offers water and dust resistance (IP68 and IP69).

    2. Advanced Connectivity: Supports modern connectivity options like Wi-Fi 7 and 5G Sub-6, with dual nano SIM slots but lacks eSIM support. Call quality is good, though noise cancellation struggles in loud environments.

    3. Camera Performance: Strong rear triple camera setup with a new larger OmniVision sensor, excellent in various lighting conditions; front camera performance is less impressive.

    4. Display and Performance: 6.9-inch AMOLED display with high peak brightness and 144Hz refresh rate, powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite chip with good everyday performance but high temperatures during stress tests.

    5. Battery and Audio: 6,600mAh battery offers satisfactory runtimes, while the audio quality from the speakers is decent but can sound hollow at higher volumes.


    The Nubia Z70S Ultra is a premium smartphone that captures attention with its vintage aesthetic and impressive camera features. It draws inspiration from classic cameras, especially the black version paired with an optional camera kit, which may remind some users of renowned German camera brands.

    Build and Design

    The quality of the construction feels luxurious, although the faux leather design on the back gives a somewhat cheap impression, yet it feels nice when handled. Its focus on photography is highlighted by a multi-functional slider switch (like for camera use or muting) and a two-stage camera button. Moreover, the device boasts water and dust resistance with IP68 and IP69 ratings.

    Connectivity and Security

    When it comes to connectivity, the Nubia Z70S Ultra is quite modern. It supports Wi-Fi 7 and 6GHz, providing excellent transfer speeds. Mobile connectivity is impressive as well, featuring 5G Sub-6, extensive frequency support, and dual nano SIM slots. However, it does not support eSIM. Call quality is reliable, although the noise cancellation struggles in loud settings.

    Security features include a fast optical under-display fingerprint sensor. There’s also facial recognition through the under-display front camera, but it doesn’t function well in low-light scenarios. The vibration motor offers precise and satisfying feedback.

    Software and Packaging

    The Nubia Z70S Ultra operates on an Android-based interface, with the manufacturer promising three years of updates. It remains uncertain if this covers major Android upgrades. Unfortunately, the packaging lacks eco-friendly materials, as it mainly consists of plastic and is fully shrink-wrapped.

    Camera Performance

    The camera technology is one of the standout aspects of the Z70S Ultra. The front camera, which is hidden under the display, tends to produce underwhelming images, often appearing oversharpened and faded. Conversely, the rear triple camera setup is of high quality.

    The new, larger OmniVision main sensor with enhanced optical image stabilization performs admirably in both bright and dim lighting. The digital zoom is acceptable, and the ultrawide lens captures mostly excellent images, although the edges may lack sharpness.

    Video Capabilities

    Video recording capabilities include 8K at 30 frames per second or 4K at up to 120 frames per second. Image stabilization is available up to 4K60, ensuring smooth video footage.

    Display and Performance

    The 6.9-inch AMOLED display achieves a peak HDR brightness of 1,869 nits and supports a refresh rate of 144Hz. However, it is not an LTPO panel, meaning the rate can only be lowered to 60Hz. Thanks to a high PWM dimming frequency of up to 2160 Hz, the screen largely avoids flickering, making it suitable for sensitive users.

    The Nubia phone is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, with options for 12GB or 16GB of RAM. In everyday use, its performance is good, but the Nubia Z70S Ultra falls short in benchmark tests, likely due to high temperatures. During stress tests, we recorded surface temperatures reaching 54 °C. On the bright side, there was no condensation in the camera, unlike earlier models.

    Battery Life and Audio

    The robust 6,600mAh battery delivers satisfactory runtimes, but we anticipated slightly better performance given its size. The speakers offer decent audio quality, though they can sound a bit hollow at higher volumes.

    Conclusion

    The Nubia Z70S Ultra appeals to those who appreciate a unique design, solid camera performance, and modern connectivity options. However, the smartphone does have some drawbacks concerning thermal management and performance. It also does not support eSIM and lacks visible sustainability efforts. Still, for photography lovers, it remains an intriguing device with a wide range of features.

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  • Galaxy Z Flip FE Price Leak Raises Questions on Samsung’s Strategy

    Galaxy Z Flip FE Price Leak Raises Questions on Samsung’s Strategy

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Z Flip FE combines features from the Galaxy Z Flip5 and Flip6 but may feel outdated compared to the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip7 and Motorola Razr 60.

    2. The Galaxy Z Flip FE might be priced €100 lower than the Galaxy Z Flip7, with potential US pricing around $899, depending on regional strategies.

    3. The device is expected to include an Exynos 2400 processor, 8 GB of RAM, up to 256 GB of storage, and a 120 Hz foldable screen, with a launch date set for July 9.

    4. Samsung’s pricing strategy raises questions, especially since the Galaxy Z Flip FE may not have significant hardware differences from the Flip7, leading to potential frequent discounts.

    5. Motorola maintains a clearer distinction between its Razr models, suggesting Samsung may need to adjust its approach to avoid confusion in the market.


    The Galaxy Z Flip FE stands out as a unique addition to Samsung’s growing Galaxy Z series. It supposedly combines elements from the Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Flip6 (currently priced at $614 for refurbished models on Amazon), which may make the Galaxy Z Flip FE seem somewhat outdated when compared to the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip7. In a similar way, it also gives off a more dated vibe than the Motorola Razr 60, which is a more affordable clamshell option available in 2025 and early 2026.

    Pricing Dynamics

    There’s a noticeable price difference between Motorola’s two clamshell versions; however, Roland Quandt hints that this might not apply to Samsung’s models. He shared on BlueSky that the Galaxy Z Flip FE could be priced at just €100 lower than the Galaxy Z Flip7. This price positioning might be influenced by the fact that the Galaxy Z Flip7 is expected to debut at around €100 less than its predecessor.

    Market Variability

    As of now, it remains unclear if Samsung will implement this slight price difference in other regions, like North America. If they do, the Galaxy Z Flip FE could potentially be available in the US for around $899 prior to launch discounts. This device is set to feature an Exynos 2400 processor, 8 GB of RAM, storage options of up to 256 GB, and a 120 Hz foldable screen. Samsung is anticipated to reveal this phone on July 9, equipped with the same 12 MP cameras found in the Galaxy Z Flip5.

    Strategic Concerns

    In the end, the range of hardware cuts from the Galaxy Z Flip7 raises questions about Samsung’s approach in this instance. Presently, Motorola clearly separates the hardware differences between the Razr 60 and Razr 60 Ultra with a significant price disparity. While the Razr Plus 2025 complicates things a bit in the US market, it seems there are more than €100 worth of differences between the Galaxy Z Flip FE and the Galaxy Z Flip7. Should Quandt’s rumor be accurate, Samsung may need to frequently discount the Galaxy Z Flip FE, similar to its strategy with the Galaxy S24 FE.

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  • Xiaomi 16 Ultra May Feature 1-Inch Camera Sensor from Huawei P40 Ultra

    Xiaomi 16 Ultra May Feature 1-Inch Camera Sensor from Huawei P40 Ultra

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pura 80 series features the SC5A0CS SmartSens sensor, marking a shift from traditional Sony and Samsung sensors.
    2. SmartSens is a company based in Shanghai, not just a marketing term from Huawei.
    3. Xiaomi is rumored to consider using SmartSens components for its future devices, indicating a shift in sensor sourcing.
    4. Xiaomi has a history of using various camera sensors, including those from Sony and Samsung, showcasing its flexibility.
    5. There are speculations that the upcoming Xiaomi 16 Ultra may use a SmartSens sensor, possibly replacing the older Sony LYT-900.


    Prior to the launching event of the Pura 80, there were lots of talks and hints about the SC5A0CS SmartSens sensor that people thought would be used in the Pura 80 Ultra. At that moment, it wasn’t completely clear if SmartSens was just a new marketing term from Huawei. However, it turns out that it is actually the name of a company located in Shanghai. Their camera sensor tech is making its debut in the Pura 80 series, replacing the traditional Sony and Samsung sensors.

    New Hardware Sources

    This means that some of the hardware found in the Pura 80’s camera system doesn’t come from Huawei but from another Chinese company instead. This is important since there are fresh rumors suggesting that another popular Android smartphone maker, Xiaomi, might start using SmartSens parts too. This information comes from an Indian leaker who recently shared this unverified detail on the social media platform X.

    Xiaomi’s Flexibility with Sensors

    Xiaomi has always been quite adaptive when it comes to camera sensors. Besides using Sony sensors, like the 1-inch LYT-900 that can be found in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra (which is available through import on Aliexpress), they also incorporate the 200-megapixel Samsung ISOCELL HP9 and Omnivision components in many of their devices. Thus, it’s very likely that SmartSens could soon become a new source for Xiaomi’s upcoming Leica camera flagship phones.

    Potential Features in Future Devices

    Rumor has it that a SmartSens sensor is expected to be used in the Xiaomi 16 Ultra, although we don’t know the exact model yet. Xiaomi might choose the same 1-inch sensor found in the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra to replace the older Sony LYT-900. Whether this will actually take place is still uncertain. Regardless, this should definitely spark excitement among Xiaomi fans.

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  • Sony Unveils New Camera Sensor for Vivo X300 Pro and Oppo Find X9 Pro

    Sony Unveils New Camera Sensor for Vivo X300 Pro and Oppo Find X9 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo X300 Pro is expected to launch in China in October 2025, with a global release in early 2026.
    2. The smartphone may feature a new main camera sensor called IMX09A, a 1/1.28-inch Sony sensor.
    3. The LYT-828 sensor, which could replace the LYT-818, may also be used in flagship devices from other brands like Oppo and OnePlus.
    4. The LYT-828 sensor boasts enhanced technology called Hybrid Frame HDR, offering a dynamic range exceeding 100dB.
    5. The sensor also includes features like Loss-Less-Exposure (LLE) to improve image quality, particularly in low-light conditions.


    The latest information about the Vivo X300 Pro has just surfaced, with expectations for its launch in China as soon as October 2025, followed by a worldwide release in early 2026. This recent leak suggests that the smartphone will feature a new main camera sensor known as IMX09A. This sensor is expected to be a 1/1.28-inch Sony sensor, much like its predecessors, the Vivo X200 Pro and X200 Ultra. Interestingly, a compatible sensor has now been listed on the Sony Semiconductor website. The new model, named LYT-828, is set to replace the LYT-818 and may be included in both Vivo flagship models mentioned earlier.

    Unconfirmed Features

    It is important to note that the inclusion of the LYT-828 in the Vivo X300 Pro, or even in a potential Vivo X300 Ultra, has not been officially confirmed. Additionally, this sensor might also appear in upcoming flagship devices from brands like Oppo and OnePlus, such as the OnePlus 15 or Oppo Find X9 Pro. Although the Sony website does not provide any internal codenames, it appears quite plausible that this sensor could be utilized in these phones.

    Specifications and Upgrades

    When looking at the technical specifications of the LYT-828, the differences from the LYT-818 seem to be minimal. Both sensors are 1/1.28-inch stacked designs featuring 50 megapixels and a pixel size of 1.22 microns. The primary enhancement comes from an innovative technology called Hybrid Frame HDR.

    As per Sony’s specifications, this technology is expected to provide a dynamic range exceeding 100dB, which would be the highest among all Sony sensors in this category. In contrast, the LYT-818, which is used in the Vivo X200 Pro and Vivo X200 Ultra, has a dynamic range of 86dB. In simpler terms, Sony’s new sensor combines Single-Frame HDR, Dual-Conversion Gain (DCG), and Multi-Frame HDR to achieve this remarkable dynamic range. The HF-HDR technology remains effective even when zooming. Another innovative feature of this sensor is Loss-Less-Exposure (LLE), aimed at improving the signal-to-noise ratio, which should help reduce noise in darker sections of images.

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  • Honor Magic8 Max: Launching in 2025 with Nearly 7-Inch Display

    Honor Magic8 Max: Launching in 2025 with Nearly 7-Inch Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. More Android smartphone manufacturers are expected to introduce compact models due to the popularity of the OnePlus 13s and Vivo S30 Pro Mini in 2025.

    2. There is still a strong demand for larger smartphone displays, with some manufacturers planning to exceed the typical 6.8-inch size.

    3. Honor is likely to launch the Magic8 Max, featuring a 6.9-inch display, indicating a shift in their product strategy.

    4. Honor is also considering a more affordable smartphone option with an even larger 6.96-inch screen, possibly targeting gaming users.

    5. The naming and specifics of Honor’s new model remain uncertain, with various possibilities being discussed for future releases.


    More Android smartphone manufacturers are expected to launch new compact models, following the popularity of the OnePlus 13s and Vivo S30 Pro Mini in 2025.

    Big Displays Still in Demand

    Despite this trend, there seems to be a growing appetite for larger screens, as at least one manufacturer is anticipated to exceed the usual ~6.8-inch barrier with its upcoming smartphones.

    Honor’s New Offering

    It could be unveiled as the Honor Magic8 Max, which is somewhat amusing since there were earlier speculations that the company would have already unveiled a Magic7 Mini by now. This new device is said to feature a 6.9-inch display, slightly larger than the 6.8 inches found in the current Magic7 Pro.

    Honor apparently sees a strong demand for smartphones that aren’t just compact (possibly for gaming purposes?) and is considering launching a more affordable model with an even bigger 6.96-inch screen.

    Uncertain Future

    The name of this new model is still a mystery, but there are several potential candidates, including successors to the X60 GT, a high-capacity Power model, and possibly even a flagship competitor like the GT Pro.

    The OnePlus 13s is currently priced at INR 54,998 on Amazon in India, according to Digital Chat Station via Weibo.

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  • Oppo Reno 15 Pro Set to Launch with 200MP Telephoto Lens

    Oppo Reno 15 Pro Set to Launch with 200MP Telephoto Lens

    Key Takeaways

    1. Oppo is developing a new smartphone called the Reno 15 Pro with a 6.78-inch display and a 200MP periscope zoom camera.
    2. The Reno 15 Pro will replace the previous model, which had a 50MP periscope zoom camera, offering improved camera quality.
    3. A standard version of the Reno 15 is expected, featuring a smaller 6.3-inch display.
    4. The new models will succeed the Reno 14 Pro and 14, which have a similar build quality to the iPhone 16 and are rated at IP68/69.
    5. The Reno 15 series is expected to launch soon in India, alongside the Reno 13 and 13 Pro models.


    Oppo is reportedly working on a new smartphone that features a sizable display of approximately 6.78 inches and a rear camera with a remarkable 200MP periscope zoom. Interestingly, the information leak suggests that this device is known as the Reno 15 Pro, instead of the more premium Find X9 Pro.

    Device Details

    If this information is accurate, the Reno 15 Pro would replace its predecessor, which also had a periscope zoom camera but with a resolution of 50MP. The quality of the new camera is expected to be significantly better than that of the Find X8 Pro. There is also speculation that it will be launched alongside a standard version that will have a smaller, yet newer, display measuring around 6.3 inches.

    Potential Succession

    These new models are believed to take over from the Reno 14 Pro and 14, which are currently available on the global market and boast a build quality similar to that of the iPhone 16, rated at IP68/69.

    Despite having fewer color options than their Chinese versions, the Reno 14 has recently introduced a unique Luminous Green color for the international market.

    Market Arrival

    It is anticipated that these devices will soon be available in India, joining the Reno 13 and 13 Pro models.

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  • Huawei Mate 80 Series Launching with New Kirin Processor in 2025

    Huawei Mate 80 Series Launching with New Kirin Processor in 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Kirin 9030 is expected to be a direct upgrade from the Kirin 9020.
    2. The anticipated launch of the Kirin 9030 is in 2025, coinciding with new high-end smartphones.
    3. It may be unveiled towards the end of 2025, aligning with the release of Mate 70 series models.
    4. The Kirin 9030 is likely to be used in other devices, including the Mate X7 foldable flagship.
    5. It could also power the next generation of Pura-series smartphones expected in early 2026.


    Huawei’s upcoming mobile SoC flagship is believed to be the Kirin 9030, which fits as a direct upgrade from the existing Kirin 9020, a logical progression.

    Expected Launch Timeline

    This new processor is anticipated to arrive in 2025, coinciding with the release of the company’s next high-end smartphones. While competitors like the Dimensity 9500 and Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 aim for a launch as soon as September 2025 to compete with the Apple A19 Pro, the “9030” might not be part of that competition at all.

    Potential Release Date

    Instead, it is now expected to be unveiled towards the end of the year. This timing could align perfectly for it to feature in the successors to the Mate 70, 70 Pro, Pro+, and RS models.

    The Kirin 9030 is also likely to find its way into other devices, such as the Mate X7 foldable flagship, along with its even more advanced XT 2 tri-folding version.

    Future Applications

    Furthermore, it could power the next generation of Pura-series smartphones, especially if they are set to launch in the first half of 2026, making the 9030 still a relevant option.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7: New Thin Design Leaks

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7: New Thin Design Leaks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung will unveil the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 on July 9, entering a competitive foldable device market.
    2. The Galaxy Z Fold7 is expected to be much thinner than its predecessor, measuring close to 4 mm on each side.
    3. The Galaxy Z Fold7 will not include Under Display Camera (UDC) technology.
    4. The Galaxy Z Flip7 will be slimmer than the Galaxy Z Flip6 but not as thin as the Galaxy Z Fold7.
    5. The Galaxy Z Flip7 will feature a modern clamshell design compared to the previous model.


    Samsung is just a few days away from officially showcasing its upcoming foldable devices. Set to be revealed on July 9, the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 are entering a competitive market that includes rivals like the Vivo X Fold5, Homor Magic V5, and the Xiaomi Mix Flip 2, among others. Meanwhile, Evan Blass has released new images of both devices, highlighting their relative slimness.

    Galaxy Z Fold7 Details

    Currently, the Galaxy Z Fold7 is expected to be much thinner than the previous version (currently priced at $999 – refurbished on Amazon), as pointed out by Blass’ recent leak. It’s said to be only slightly thicker than its volume button or capacitive fingerprint scanner, estimated to measure close to 4 mm on each side. Blass also notes that this year’s Galaxy Z Fold will not feature Under Display Camera (UDC) technology, similar to last year’s Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition.

    Galaxy Z Flip7 Insights

    The precise measurements of this year’s Galaxy Z Flip are still not available. However, it is clear that the Galaxy Z Flip7 will be noticeably slimmer than the existing Galaxy Z Flip6. Yet, it is probably not going to be as thin as the Galaxy Z Fold counterpart. The clamshell design is expected to present a more modern look compared to the Galaxy Z Flip FE, which has had its Eurozone pricing leaked recently as well.

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  • Vivo X Fold 5 Now Available for Half the Price of Galaxy Z Fold 7

    Vivo X Fold 5 Now Available for Half the Price of Galaxy Z Fold 7

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo X Fold 3’s successor is introduced in China, with options for global delivery through retailers like TradingShenzhen and Wondamobile.
    2. Pricing for the Vivo X Fold varies by model: $1,201 for 12GB/256GB, $1,517 for 16GB/512GB, and around $1,630 for 1TB.
    3. Expected availability is late June, with shipping starting in early July, offering a more affordable alternative to the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7.
    4. Consumers should consider technical differences and challenges with returns/warranties when importing, though Android Auto issues are resolved.
    5. eSIM support is lacking in the current model, and users may need to uninstall pre-installed Chinese bloatware due to the use of Origin OS instead of FunTouch OS.


    It’s not yet available worldwide, but the Vivo X Fold 3’s successor has already been introduced in China. For those interested, importing it from China is an option; numerous retailers offer the Zeiss camera foldable for global delivery. Along with our trusted import partner, TradingShenzhen, there’s also the Vivo X Fold available at Wondamobile in Hong Kong, with prices varying slightly by model.

    Pricing Details

    Both online retailers present the sleek and lightweight foldable in three hues: black, white, or green. The 12GB/256GB variant is priced at $1,201 on TradingShenzhen and $1,239 at Wondamobile. If you’re looking for 512GB storage with 16GB RAM, it’ll cost you $1,517 at TradingShenzhen and $1,489 at Wondamobile. Finally, the 1TB foldable is available for about $1,630 at both TradingShenzhen and Wondamobile, with the green version at Wondamobile being $30 pricier.

    Availability and Comparison

    The Vivo foldable is not expected to be in stock until the end of June, but shipping is anticipated for “early July” at TradingShenzhen or around July 8 – 9 at Wondamobile. In comparison to the upcoming global release of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, this pricing is quite reasonable. While the cost of the Galaxy Z Fold6’s successor remains uncertain, it’s likely to be at least $2000.

    When it comes to Chinese imports, consumers should carefully examine the technical distinctions from global smartphone versions and the common challenges associated with returns and warranties. Fortunately, with Vivo, the Android Auto issue seems to be resolved, and it should function properly with the Chinese version. It supports LTE band 20 and the standard 5G frequencies. The system languages available include English, German, Spanish, French, Filipino, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Korean, Indonesian, and many others (the complete list of languages can be found by scrolling to the specifications’ end).

    Additional Features

    However, eSIM support continues to be a challenge, so those needing this feature may have to wait for a potential Vivo X Fold 5, which hasn’t been announced yet. Vivo employs Origin OS instead of FunTouch OS in China, leading to some differences in operation and features. Users will also need to spend a few minutes uninstalling pre-installed Chinese bloatware.

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