Category: Phones

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  • Fairphone 4 to Skip Android 14 and Upgrade Directly to Android 15

    Fairphone 4 to Skip Android 14 and Upgrade Directly to Android 15

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fairphone 4 is no longer sold officially but continues to receive software support, currently limited to Android 13.
    2. The company promised six years of updates for the Fairphone 4, but the Android 14 update has been canceled due to resource constraints.
    3. Fairphone is shifting focus to develop the Android 15 update instead of pursuing Android 14 for the Fairphone 4.
    4. There is no timeline for the release of the Android 15 update for either the Fairphone 4 or the newer Fairphone 5.
    5. Fairphone 4 will receive software support and security updates until at least 2026, with a possibility of extension to 2028.

    It has nearly been four years since the Fairphone 4 made its debut, and even though the phone is no longer sold officially due to a newer model, Fairphone continues to offer software assistance. The device is currently limited to Android 13 because Fairphone has not managed to release the Android 14 update, and an official announcement states that this update will not be available.

    Update Timeline

    The Fairphone 4 originally launched with Android 11 and was promised to receive updates for six years. However, the last upgrade to the operating system was Android 13 in 2023. Fairphone had initially indicated that an Android 14 update would be ready by early 2025, but that has not occurred. The company mentions that it is facing resource constraints and is working to remedy this by enlarging its support team and seeking external assistance.

    Shift in Focus

    Recently, Fairphone announced that the Android 14 update will not be released. A message on their community forum indicates a shift in focus towards Android 15 for the Fairphone 4. This decision followed a detailed assessment of the efforts required to produce a stable Android 14 update.

    There is currently no information regarding when the Android 15 update will be available for the Fairphone 5, but the company has stated that it will enhance its communication with its community, so more updates are expected soon. The newer Fairphone 5 (currently priced at €499 on Amazon.de) also has not received the Android 15 update yet, leaving it unclear which device will get it first or if they will both receive it simultaneously.

    Continued Support

    The Fairphone 4 will still benefit from software support until 2026, although Fairphone has hinted that this might be extended to 2028. At present, it offers security updates every two months for the Fairphone 4 and intends to continue doing this until the device reaches its end of life.

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  • Oppo A5x 5G Launch: Affordable Smartphone with Dimensity 6300 SoC

    Oppo A5x 5G Launch: Affordable Smartphone with Dimensity 6300 SoC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Display and Design: The Oppo A5x 5G features a 6.67-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 1604 x 720 pixels, a 120 Hz refresh rate, and a maximum brightness of 1000 nits, along with MIL-STD certification and an IP65 rating for durability.

    2. Processor and Storage: It is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, with 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1 TB via microSD card.

    3. Camera Setup: The smartphone includes a 32 MP primary camera and a 5 MP front camera for selfies and video calls.

    4. Battery and Software: The device has a 6,000 mAh battery with 45 W wired charging, and it runs on Android 15 with ColorOS 15, though future software support is uncertain.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The Oppo A5x will be available in India starting May 25 for INR 13,999 (~$165) in midnight blue and laser white colors.

    Oppo has introduced a new addition to its A5 series, named the A5x 5G. This budget-friendly smartphone comes with a solid array of features. It boasts a 6.67-inch LCD screen that displays at a resolution of 1604 x 720 pixels, along with a 120 Hz refresh rate and a maximum brightness of 1000 nits. The device is also MIL-STD certified and has an IP65 rating.

    MediaTek Power

    For this model, Oppo has opted for a MediaTek processor. It is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, which is complemented by 4 GB of RAM and offers up to 128 GB of internal storage, which can be expanded to 1 TB using a microSD card. Similar to its 4G version, this smartphone includes a 32 MP primary camera and a 5 MP camera on the front for selfies and video calls.

    Software and Battery Life

    On the software side, it runs Android 15 with ColorOS 15 right out of the box. However, there’s no information regarding future software support from Oppo, suggesting that updates might not be forthcoming. The device is powered by a robust 6,000 mAh battery that supports 45 W wired charging. Additional features feature a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, WiFi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. It has a thickness of just 7.9 mm (0.31 inches) and weighs around 193 grams (0.42 lbs).

    Availability and Pricing

    The Oppo A5x is set to hit the market on May 25 in India, available through Oppo India’s official website and Amazon. Customers can choose between midnight blue and laser white colors. Oppo offers a single variant with 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage for INR 13,999 (~$165).

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    Oppo A5x 5G Launch: Affordable Smartphone with Dimensity 6300 SoC

     

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  • Vivo S30 Pro Mini Launches as New Hello Kitty Smartphone

    Vivo S30 Pro Mini Launches as New Hello Kitty Smartphone

    Key Takeaways

    1. The S30 Pro Mini is described as “dopamine in the palm of your hand” due to its modern design.
    2. It will feature colorful designs inspired by characters like Pudding Dog and Hello Kitty.
    3. The device is expected to be the first to use the Dimensity 9400e SoC.
    4. The S30 Pro Mini will have a flat display, similar to its larger counterpart, the S30.
    5. Its launch is set for May 29, 2025, alongside the Vivo Pad 5 Pro and TWS Air3 earbuds.

    The S30 Pro Mini is set to be launched and is being described as “dopamine in the palm of your hand.” This exciting claim is not just due to its modern and compact design.

    Colorful Collaborations

    Vivo has announced that both the Pro Mini and its larger counterpart, the S30, will feature a new design similar to the OnePlus 13T. They will come in various colors and accessories that are inspired by characters like Pudding Dog, My Melody, Coolome, Big Eared Dog, and Hello Kitty.

    Unique Tech Partnerships

    While tech collaborations are common, the S30 Pro Mini is believed to be the first device to embrace this trend while also featuring the latest Dimensity 9400e SoC.

    However, it is important to note that the speculated status of the S30 Pro Mini as a potential rival to the 13T has not been confirmed yet. The device is now confirmed to come with a flat display, similar to the S30.

    Upcoming Releases

    The launch of the S30 Pro Mini will happen alongside the release of a standard version of the Vivo Pad 5 Pro and the new TWS Air3 earbuds, which will be available in “fruity new colors” on May 29, 2025.

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    Vivo S30 Pro Mini Launches as New Hello Kitty SmartphoneVivo S30 Pro Mini Launches as New Hello Kitty Smartphone
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  • Xiaomi 15S Pro with Xring O1 Processor Launches Globally

    Xiaomi 15S Pro with Xring O1 Processor Launches Globally

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched its Xring O1, the company’s most advanced flagship SoC, competing strongly with the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

    2. The flagship smartphone will not be available in global markets at this time, but importing is possible through Giztop.

    3. The starting model with 16 GB RAM and 512 GB storage is priced at $949, while the same model launched in China for about $764.

    4. Another configuration with 16 GB RAM and 1 TB storage is available for $1,049, compared to about $832 in China.

    5. Important considerations for importing include the pre-installed Chinese version of HyperOS, potential compatibility issues with global features, and differences in warranty policies.

    Xiaomi has revealed its Xring O1, marking a significant step for the company with its most advanced flagship SoC yet. Performance-wise, it stands strong against the Snapdragon 8 Elite, based on benchmark tests. Nevertheless, the company has stated that they do not have plans to release this flagship smartphone in global markets at this time.

    Importing the Device

    For those keen on getting the phone, importing it through Giztop is now an option. The starting model, which comes with 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, is priced at $949. In comparison, this configuration was initially launched in China for CNY 5,499, equating to roughly $764.

    Additional Configurations Available

    Giztop is also selling another configuration of the Xiaomi 15S Pro, which has the same RAM but offers 1 TB of storage. This variant is priced at $1,049. In China, the same setup was introduced for CNY 5,999, which is about $832.

    Important Considerations

    While the import pricing looks decent, there are important details to think about before buying a phone that’s exclusive to China. For instance, the Xiaomi 15S Pro will come pre-installed with the Chinese version of HyperOS, which might include apps tailored for the Chinese market.

    Additionally, some functionalities that are available on global phones, like Android Auto, could be incompatible with imported models. Warranty issues are also a consideration; although Giztop seems to offer a reasonable warranty policy, it is not identical to the official one.

    Features of the Xiaomi 15S Pro

    In terms of specifications, aside from the Xring O1, the Xiaomi 15S Pro is equipped with a premium camera system that features Leica tuning. It also boasts a brilliant 2K display and a robust 6,100 mAh battery that supports 90 W fast charging (100 W Anker Prime currently priced at $49.99 on Amazon). More details about the device can be found in our coverage of the launch.

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  • Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7, Z Flip7 FE Demo Units in Production

    Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7, Z Flip7 FE Demo Units in Production

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung will unveil three foldable smartphones: Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7, and Z Flip7 FE in July.
    2. Production of demo units for these devices started on April 30, 2023.
    3. The Galaxy Z Fold7 may feature an 8.2-inch internal display, 6.5-inch outer screen, Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, 200MP camera, and 4,400mAh battery.
    4. The Galaxy Z Flip7 FE is expected to be a budget-friendly version of the Z Flip7, weighing 187g and featuring a smaller 3.4-inch cover display.
    5. No official confirmation from Samsung yet; information is based on leaks and should be viewed with caution.

    Samsung is set to unveil its next generation of foldable gadgets in July. It’s being said that the company will launch three foldable smartphones: the Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7, and Z Flip7 FE.

    Production of Demo Units

    According to a new report from tipster Max Jambor, preparations for demo units of Samsung’s upcoming foldable devices are underway. Jambor indicates that production of the demo units for the Z Fold7, Z Flip7, and Z Flip7 FE began on April 30.

    Expected Specs and Features

    The Galaxy Z Fold7 is rumored to have an internal display measuring 8.2 inches and a 6.5-inch outer screen. It’s likely to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, similar to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is currently priced at $985 on Amazon. There may be a 200MP main camera and a battery capacity of 4,400mAh. An alleged real-life image of the Z Fold7 has appeared online, hinting at a design akin to last year’s Z Fold6.

    The Galaxy Z Flip7 FE is anticipated to be a budget-friendly variant of the standard Flip7. It might look like the previous Z Flip6. Max Jambor mentions that the Z Flip7 FE weighs 187g, the same as its predecessor. There are rumors that the Flip7 and Flip7 FE will be powered by the Exynos 2500 and Exynos 2400 processors, respectively. The Z Flip7 is said to have an edge-to-edge cover display, whereas the Z Flip7 FE might feature a smaller 3.4-inch cover display.

    Confirmation Status

    As of now, Samsung has not officially confirmed any particulars about its upcoming foldable devices. The information provided is based on leaks, so it should be treated with some skepticism.

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  • Xiaomi Reveals Global Availability Issues for 15S Pro and Pad 7 Ultra

    Xiaomi Reveals Global Availability Issues for 15S Pro and Pad 7 Ultra

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the Xring O1, a new flagship System on Chip (SoC) used in the Xiaomi 15S Pro and Pad 7 Ultra.
    2. The Xring O1 is currently exclusive to China and will not be available globally for now.
    3. Xiaomi has partnered with Qualcomm to produce high-end smartphones using Snapdragon processors.
    4. The Xring O1 features a 10-core setup, including two Cortex-X925 performance cores, an Arm Immortalis-G925 MC16 GPU, and a MediaTek T800 Modem.
    5. Global customers may not have access to devices with the Xring SoC for the foreseeable future.

    Xiaomi has officially introduced the Xring O1, their newest flagship System on Chip (SoC). This powerful chip is currently being used in two premium devices: the Xiaomi 15S Pro and the Pad 7 Ultra. According to information released during the announcement, the Xring O1 appears to be a strong contender against rivals like the Snapdragon 8 Elite and Dimensity 9400.

    Exclusive Availability in China

    At this moment, Xiaomi is not planning to introduce this competition to the global market. The company has clarified to Android Authority that the flagship smartphone and tablet powered by the Xring O1 will only be available in China for the time being. This means that international customers interested in these devices will have to import the Xiaomi 15S Pro and Pad 7 Ultra from China.

    Collaboration with Qualcomm

    This update comes shortly after Xiaomi entered into a long-term partnership with Qualcomm to produce high-end smartphones using Snapdragon processors. As part of this collaboration, Xiaomi announced it will be the first to launch a flagship device featuring the next generation of the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. All of this indicates that global customers may not have the opportunity to buy flagship phones equipped with Xring SoCs anytime soon.

    Specifications of the Xring O1

    For those curious about the Xring O1, Xiaomi revealed that it has a 10-core setup, which includes two high-performance Cortex-X925 cores. The SoC is also equipped with the Arm Immortalis-G925 MC16 GPU and the MediaTek T800 Modem. For more information about the SoC, you can refer to our launch coverage.

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  • Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Review: Mid-Range King Losing Ground

    Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Review: Mid-Range King Losing Ground

    Key Takeaways

    1. Storage Options and Pricing: The Samsung Galaxy A56 5G comes in 128 GB and 256 GB storage options, priced at approximately $370 and $410, respectively, with a fresh design and an IP67 rating.

    2. Technical Features: The device operates on Android 15 with One UI 7.0, supports Wi-Fi 6, NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB 2.0, but lacks a microSD card slot. It offers software updates until March 2032.

    3. Camera Performance: The front camera has improved for selfies, but the rear triple-camera setup remains unchanged, offering decent quality that struggles in low-light conditions and features HDR video support.

    4. Display and Battery: The 6.67-inch display is bright (up to 2,001 cd/m²) and sharp, powered by the Exynos 1580 processor and 8 GB of RAM. The 5,000 mAh battery ensures long usage times and charges quickly at 45 watts, though it lacks wireless charging.

    5. Market Competition: While the Galaxy A56 5G has strengths, it may not fully compete with brands like Xiaomi, Apple, and Google, particularly in performance and camera quality, but becomes more appealing as its price decreases.

    The Samsung Galaxy A56 5G is a notable upgrade in the mid-range smartphone category. It offers two storage options: 128 GB and 256 GB, priced at approximately $370 and $410, respectively, though it initially had a higher suggested retail price. The design is fresh and appealing, featuring a brushed aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back, and it boasts an IP67 rating. While it is a bit larger, the A56 is also slimmer and lighter than its predecessor, achieving a better display-to-surface ratio of 88% due to its narrower bezels.

    Technical Features

    On the technical side, the A56 lacks a microSD card slot but compensates with features like Wi-Fi 6, NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB 2.0. It operates on Android 15 with One UI 7.0, and users can expect updates until March 2032. The device includes a streamlined AI function called “Awesome Intelligence,” which offers image editing options and features such as Circle to Search and Gemini.

    Camera Performance

    Sadly, the camera setup hasn’t really improved much. The front camera takes better selfies due to a new sensor, but the rear triple-camera remains unchanged from the previous model. The picture quality is decent, yet the lens struggles with capturing details and performs poorly in low-light situations. It now offers HDR video support for both front and back cameras. The digital zoom functions adequately up to 2x, but beyond that, the image quality declines significantly.

    Display and Battery

    The display size has increased to 6.67 inches, with impressive brightness levels reaching up to 2,001 cd/m². Even with a slightly lower pixel density, the screen remains very sharp. The Galaxy A56 is equipped with the Exynos 1580 processor and 8 GB of LPDDR5 RAM. It shows noticeable performance gains in daily tasks and outperforms many competitor devices in benchmarks, although it still trails behind premium processors like the Apple A18. The phone is powered by a 5,000 mAh battery, ensuring long usage times, and it can be charged in about 71 minutes at 45 watts via cable, but it does not support wireless charging.

    Conclusion

    So, can it compete with brands like Xiaomi, Apple, and Google? The answer is both yes and no. Given its original price, Samsung should deliver more, especially regarding performance and the main camera. However, as the price continues to drop, the Galaxy A56 becomes a very appealing offer overall.

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    Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Review: Mid-Range King Losing Ground

     

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  • Xiaomi Redmi K80 Ultra Leaks with New 120W Charger Ahead of Launch

    Xiaomi Redmi K80 Ultra Leaks with New 120W Charger Ahead of Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Redmi K80 Ultra, also known as the Redmi K80 Extreme Edition, is closer to launch, with its model number 25060RK16C listed in MIIT’s database.
    2. The phone is expected to feature a large 7,500 mAh battery, offering a 36% increase in capacity compared to its predecessor.
    3. It will support fast charging capabilities of up to 120 W, approved by the China Compulsory Certification (3C).
    4. The device may launch with new power adapters, specifically the MDY-14-ED or MDY-17-EW.
    5. The Redmi K80 Ultra is rumored to be powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400+ chipset, used in other recent devices.

    What is likely to be known as the Redmi K80 Ultra or the Redmi K80 Extreme Edition has moved closer to its launch after it showed up recently in the MIIT’s database. To summarize, the phone was listed with the model number 25060RK16C, suggesting that Xiaomi plans to introduce this device in China.

    Battery Capacity and Performance

    Furthermore, the MIIT has revealed that the Redmi K80 Ultra is expected to come with a battery of around 7,500 mAh. If this information is accurate by the time it is launched, it would represent a 36% increase in battery capacity compared to its predecessor, which Xiaomi later released globally as the Xiaomi 14T Pro (currently priced at $618 on Amazon). A new listing from the China Compulsory Certification (3C) suggests that this impressive battery may also feature notable charging capabilities.

    Charging capabilities

    The screenshot below indicates that the 3C has approved the model 25060RK16C for sale with the ability to support up to 120 W wired charging through either Xiaomi’s MDY-14-ED or MDY-17-EW power adapters. Interestingly, the latter seems to be a new model that might launch together with the Redmi K80 Ultra at some stage. Recent speculations suggest that this device will be powered by MediaTek’s latest Dimensity 9400+ chipset, which is already used in devices like the Oppo Find X8s and Vivo X200s, among others.

    Xiaomi Redmi K80 Ultra Leaks with New 120W Charger Ahead of Launch
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  • Alcatel V3 Classic, V3 Pro, and V3 Ultra Launch Announcement

    Alcatel V3 Classic, V3 Pro, and V3 Ultra Launch Announcement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Alcatel is launching three new smartphones on May 27: V3 Ultra, V3 Classic 5G, and V3 Pro 5G.
    2. The Alcatel V3 Classic 5G features India’s first NXTVISION Display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Dimensity 6300 processor, and 128GB storage expandable to 2TB.
    3. The Alcatel V3 Classic 5G includes an 8MP front camera and a 50MP main rear camera.
    4. The Alcatel V3 Pro 5G has a 6.7-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a unique Max Ink mode, similar to TCL’s E Ink display.
    5. Both the V3 Classic 5G and V3 Pro 5G come with additional features like NFC, a case, and charger included in the box.

    The Alcatel V3 Ultra isn’t the only smartphone from Alcatel that’s set to debut on May 27. According to a listing on Flipkart, the Alcatel V3 Classic 5G and the Alcatel V3 Pro 5G will also be introduced. Similar to the Alcatel V3 Ultra, these two devices are rebranded versions of TCL smartphones.

    Alcatel V3 Classic 5G

    The Alcatel V3 Classic is being advertised as ‘India’s first NXTVISION Display’ because it features TCL’s special NXTVision display tech. This technology offers several benefits such as eye protection, the ability to enhance SDR to HDR, and reduced blue light emission. The Flipkart promo page mentions that the phone will sport a centered punch hole and a refresh rate of 120Hz.

    Moreover, the webpage discloses that the device will be powered by a Dimensity 6300 processor, include NFC, and boast 128GB of internal storage, with a MicroSD card slot available for expanding storage by as much as 2TB. Additionally, the Alcatel V3 Classic will feature an 8MP front-facing camera along with a 50MP main rear camera.

    Alcatel V3 Pro 5G

    On the flip side, the Alcatel V3 Pro 5G will showcase a display much like that of the Alcatel V3 Ultra. The 6.7-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate will include four different modes, one of which is a Max Ink mode that imitates an E Ink display. This specific feature is also found on the TCL 50 Pro NXTPAPER which is currently priced at €259.99 on Amazon. The product page on Flipkart also indicates that there will be a side switch called the NXTPAPER Key to enable the Max Ink mode.

    Some additional information from the promotional page highlights 8GB of RAM, a 5,200mAh battery, and integrated Gemini. Similar to the Alcatel V3 Classic 5G, this model will also come with a case and charger included in the box.

    While the remaining specs have yet to be disclosed, if you’re interested in learning more, you should look up the TCL 60 5G, which serves as the foundation for the Alcatel V3 Classic 5G, whereas the Alcatel V3 Pro 5G is derived from the TCL 60 SE NxtPaper.

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  • Alcatel 3 2025 Update: New Android Go Smartphone Release

    Alcatel 3 2025 Update: New Android Go Smartphone Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Alcatel 3 (2025) features a 6.52-inch HD+ display with a water drop notch and a thick bottom bezel.
    2. It is powered by a UNISOC SC9863A1 processor, paired with 3GB of RAM and an option for virtual RAM expansion.
    3. The smartphone includes a 5MP front camera and an 8MP rear camera, along with face unlock and a fingerprint scanner.
    4. It has a large 5,010mAh battery that charges via USB-C at 10W and features an audio jack and Bluetooth 4.2.
    5. The device runs on Android 15 Go Edition, targeting entry-level users, and comes in Space Gray and Teal Blue colors.

    It was thought that the Alcatel V3 Ultra would be the first new Alcatel smartphone in a long time, but TCL has quietly introduced a fresh model. The latest Alcatel 3 has been revealed without much excitement, possibly due to its rather basic specifications.

    Display and Design

    The Alcatel 3, also known as Alcatel 3 (2025), features a 6.52-inch HD+ (1280 x 576) display that has a water drop notch and a noticeably thick bottom bezel. The screen is protected by 2.5D glass, offering a 20:9 aspect ratio and an 89% screen-to-body ratio.

    Performance and Storage

    Under the hood, it houses a UNISOC SC9863A1 processor alongside 3GB of RAM. The product page mentions a RAM expansion option (which is essentially Virtual RAM) that allows users to increase RAM by an additional 6GB. There’s 64GB of internal storage, with a MicroSD card slot available for expansion (up to another 1TB).

    Camera and Battery Life

    For photography, the Alcatel 3 (2025) is equipped with a 5MP front camera and an 8MP rear camera. It also has face unlock support and a fingerprint scanner located beneath the power button. The device comes with a 5,010mAh battery that charges through USB-C at 10W. Additional features include an audio jack, Bluetooth 4.2, and a mono speaker.

    The Alcatel 3 (2025) runs on Android 15 Go Edition right out of the box, which aligns with its entry-level specifications. Although there’s no pricing information available yet, the phone will be offered in Space Gray and Teal Blue.

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