Category: Phones

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  • Rising DRAM Costs Expected to Decrease Smartphone Production

    Rising DRAM Costs Expected to Decrease Smartphone Production

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ongoing DRAM crisis is driving up prices for RAM, SSDs, and hard drives, making devices more expensive.
    2. The percentage of production costs for RAM and flash storage in smartphones is expected to rise from 10-15% to 30-40% in 2026.
    3. Smartphone prices may increase as manufacturers face higher production costs, especially impacting budget-friendly models.
    4. Global smartphone production is projected to decline by 10% to around 1.135 billion units in 2026, with a possible drop exceeding 15%.
    5. Chinese smartphone makers will be most affected, while companies like Apple and Samsung may manage the crisis better due to their pricing strategies and in-house production capabilities.

    The ongoing DRAM crisis is causing a rise in the prices of RAM, SSDs, and hard drives. This situation is also affecting the costs of DRAM and NAND chips for manufacturers of laptops and smartphones. As a result, many devices are becoming more expensive. A recent report from TrendForce highlights that the price for a standard smartphone setup featuring 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of flash storage has surged by 200% since the first quarter of 2025.

    Rising Production Costs

    Last year, RAM and flash storage represented merely 10 to 15% of the production expenses for an average smartphone. However, this year, it’s projected that these components will account for 30 to 40% of total costs. Price hikes are anticipated throughout 2026, as the DRAM situation is likely to deteriorate due to increasing demand from AI companies. For many manufacturers, raising smartphone prices for consumers may become unavoidable. This is especially true for budget-friendly mid-range smartphones, which generally have lower profit margins compared to premium models.

    Impact on Smartphone Production

    According to TrendForce experts, global smartphone production is expected to fall by 10% to around 1.135 billion units in 2026. Depending on how prices for RAM and storage develop, the decline could exceed 15%. Smartphone makers in China are predicted to feel the most impact, while Apple, with the relatively higher price of the iPhone 17, has more flexibility to manage the increased production costs. In addition, Samsung, which produces its own RAM and storage, is forecasted to navigate the crisis more effectively.

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  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro Launch Date and Xiaomi 18 Update

    Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro Launch Date and Xiaomi 18 Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm plans to launch two versions of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 platform to address rising component costs.
    2. The new chipsets are expected to be announced in September, similar to previous years.
    3. Qualcomm will introduce two ‘Elite’ chipsets: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro.
    4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro will feature LPDDR6 RAM, enhanced cache, and a full-power GPU.
    5. Xiaomi 18 smartphones are expected to be the first devices to use these new chipsets.

    According to recent sources, Qualcomm is planning to divide its top-tier chipsets this year due to increasing costs of components. Specifically, several Chinese informants have suggested that Qualcomm is working on launching two versions of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 platform later this year to replace devices like the Poco F8 Ultra and OnePlus 15 (current price: $899.99 on Amazon).

    New Chipset Announcements Expected

    In a post on Weibo, Digital Chat Station has indicated that Qualcomm is set to reveal its new flagship chipsets in September, similar to the announcements of Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 back in September 2025. Unlike the previous year, Qualcomm is expected to introduce two ‘Elite’ branded chipsets, with the SM8950 and SM8975 reportedly being developed as the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, respectively.

    Specifications of the New Variants

    Additionally, the leaker has suggested that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro will be the sole variant boasting LPDDR6 RAM, an ‘maxed-out cache’, and a ‘full-power GPU’. They also anticipate that Xiaomi 18 smartphones will be the first to feature both Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipsets. Currently, Digital Chat Station believes that the standard Xiaomi 18 will be the only model using the regular Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, however.

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  • Find X9 Ultra: New Battery and Display Features Unveiled

    Find X9 Ultra: New Battery and Display Features Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo Find X9 Ultra is in public testing and nearing its launch date.
    2. Specifications are based on an Engineering Validation Test (EVT) unit, meaning final features may change.
    3. The device is experimenting with a 1440p OLED display and a 144 Hz refresh rate, but the final version may have a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    4. Prototypes have a 7,050 mAh battery, smaller than the 7,500 mAh hinted at by an Oppo executive.
    5. The Find X9 Ultra is expected to launch before the end of March, with a global release to follow a few months later.

    The Find X9 Ultra is getting closer to its launch date. Recently, Oppo’s upcoming flagship device with Ultra branding has been seen multiple times in public testing. Leaker Yogesh Brar has now revealed several specifications for the Find X9 Ultra ahead of its official announcement.

    Observations from Testing

    According to Brar’s post on X, these details are based on an Engineering Validation Test (EVT) unit. EVT units are typically early prototypes, and they will be followed by Design Validation Tests (DVT) and Production Validation Tests (PVT). Therefore, some features might change before Oppo completes the production of the Find X9 Ultra.

    Display and Refresh Rate

    Brar mentions that Oppo was experimenting with a 1440p OLED display with a 144 Hz refresh rate from BOE for the Find X9 Ultra. However, he predicts that the final retail versions will likely have a refresh rate of 120 Hz, similar to other flagship models like the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is currently priced at $769 for refurbished units on Amazon.

    Battery and Launch Details

    The prototypes of the Find X9 Ultra are said to have 7,050 mAh batteries. This is actually smaller than the approximately 7,500 mAh capacity that an Oppo executive hinted at last December. The Find X9 Ultra is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and is anticipated to launch before the end of March, with a global release to follow a few months after that.

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  • Motorola Edge 70 Fusion Leaked Promo Images Before Launch

    Motorola Edge 70 Fusion Leaked Promo Images Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion will be available in five Pantone color options: Country Air, Blue Surf, Sporting Green, Orient Blue, and Silhouette.
    2. The design features a curved display, similar to its predecessor, with no significant hardware advancements expected.
    3. It is likely to be powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, with options for up to 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage.
    4. The phone may have a large 7,000 mAh battery, an increase from the previous model’s 5,000 mAh, and support for 68 W fast charging.
    5. Camera specifications include a 50 MP primary camera and a 32 MP front camera, with the launch expected to happen soon.

    Lenovo is set to unveil several mid-range Motorola devices, and among them is the Edge 70 Fusion. Recently, well-known tipster Evan Blass released crucial specifications for the phone, and he has now shared official promotional images that give us a clearer view of the smartphone.

    Color Options

    The leaked promotional images reveal that the Motorola Edge 70 Fusion will come in five distinct Pantone color options. These colors are expected to be named: Country Air, Blue Surf, Sporting Green, Orient Blue, and Silhouette.

    Design and Hardware

    The images also indicate that Motorola has maintained a curved display design, while the back of the new model appears to be quite similar to its predecessor. According to the last set of specifications leaked by Evan Blass, there won’t be significant advancements in hardware either.

    Performance and Battery

    Specifically, the Motorola Edge 70 Fusion is likely to be equipped with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, a mid-range chipset for 2024. It is expected to come with up to 12 GB of RAM and offer 256 GB of internal storage. There are rumors of a 7,000 mAh battery, which is a considerable increase from the 5,000 mAh battery in the previous model. The leak also hints at support for 68 W fast charging (with a 140 W Baseus PicoGo charger currently priced at $59.98 on Amazon).

    Camera Features

    As for the camera configuration, earlier leaks have indicated that the Motorola Edge 70 Fusion will feature a 50 MP Lytia primary camera on the back and a 32 MP camera for selfies. Although pricing information has not yet been released, the appearance of promotional materials suggests that the launch is imminent.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Pre-Orders and Vouchers for Unpacked Event

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Pre-Orders and Vouchers for Unpacked Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event is scheduled for February 25, 2026, with a variety of promotions.
    2. Promotions vary by region, including $30/£30/€30 vouchers for signing up on Samsung’s site and contests in the UK and Euro area.
    3. Samsung US is offering $900 in “extra savings” but has not mentioned the vouchers available in other regions.
    4. A free storage upgrade from 256 GB to 512 GB is available for pre-orders, though it may not apply in North America.
    5. The pre-order period runs until March 10, with general availability starting on March 11, 2026.

    Samsung has shared more information about its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event. The company is currently advertising different promotions on its website. With just two weeks to go before the official launch on February 25, 2026, Samsung has confirmed that there will be a range of vouchers, contests, and pre-order gifts available for its newest smartphones and wearables.

    Promotions Vary by Region

    As is common, the incentives differ by region. Generally, individuals who sign up on Samsung’s site for news about the forthcoming Galaxy devices will get $30/£30/€30 vouchers that can be used towards new smartphones and/or wearables. Furthermore, there is a chance to win various vouchers valued at up to £500 in the UK and €500 in the Euro area. However, Samsung US has not mentioned these vouchers and instead focuses on $900 in “extra savings.”

    Storage Upgrade and Pre-Order Details

    The company is also offering a free storage upgrade from 256 GB to 512 GB, similar to what was available with last year’s Galaxy S25 series. Though, it appears this offer might not be valid in North America. Meanwhile, Samsung’s site states that the pre-order period will extend until March 10. Therefore, the general availability is expected to commence on March 11, 2026. The next Galaxy Unpacked event will start at 18:00 UTC. For more details, check Samsung’s website and recent leaks regarding specifications.

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  • Oppo K14x Launches to Compete with Samsung Galaxy F70e

    Oppo K14x Launches to Compete with Samsung Galaxy F70e

    Key Takeaways

    1. Display and Design: The Oppo K14x features a 6.75-inch HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 1,125 nits, similar to the Samsung Galaxy F70e.

    2. Performance and Storage: Both the K14x and Galaxy F70e use the Dimensity 6300 processor, offering options of 4GB or 6GB RAM with 128GB of expandable storage.

    3. Camera and Features: The K14x has dual rear cameras (50MP main and 2MP depth) and a 5MP front camera, along with features like a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and Bluetooth 5.4.

    4. Battery and Durability: The K14x has a larger 6500mAh battery with 45W charging and an IP64 rating for water and dust resistance, outperforming the Galaxy F70e’s 6000mAh battery and IP54 rating.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at ₹14,999 for the 4GB version and ₹16,999 for the 6GB version, the K14x is slightly more expensive than the Galaxy F70e, which is ₹2,000 cheaper for both options. Pre-orders have started, with shipping on February 16.

    Oppo has introduced the K14x as its newest budget-friendly Android smartphone for the Indian audience, positioning it directly against the recently launched Samsung Galaxy F70e.

    Display and Design

    Similar to the Galaxy F70e, the Oppo K14x features an HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The display measures 6.75 inches and boasts a peak brightness of 1,125 nits. It also supports glove usage and has an outdoor mode that enhances visibility in bright conditions.

    Performance and Storage

    Oppo has chosen to equip the K14x with the same Dimensity 6300 processor as Samsung’s offering, and it is available in identical RAM and storage options. Customers can select either a 4GB RAM or 6GB RAM version, both providing 128GB of expandable storage.

    Camera and Features

    The Oppo K14x is equipped with dual rear cameras, including a 50MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. A 5MP front camera is available for selfies and video calls. Additionally, the phone has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 5, dual SIM capability, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, features that are also found in the Galaxy F70e.

    Battery and Durability

    The K14x excels in battery capacity, fast charging, and its IP rating. Unlike its competitor, which carries an IP54 rating, the K14x boasts an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance. Its 6500mAh battery supports 45W charging (charger included), while the Galaxy F70e has a smaller 6,000mAh battery that charges at only 25W and does not include a charger in the box.

    Software and Updates

    Shipping with ColorOS 15 based on Android 15, Oppo asserts that the K14x will remain swift and responsive for up to 48 months. Meanwhile, the Galaxy F70e operates on One UI 8, which is based on Android 16. Although Oppo has not specified the duration of software updates for the K14x, Samsung guarantees 6 years of Android and security updates.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Oppo K14x comes in Icy Blue and Prism Violet, both featuring a distinctive geometric design. The starting price is ₹14,999 (~$165/€139) for the 4GB RAM version, going up to ₹16,999 (~$187/€157) for the 6GB RAM model. In comparison, Samsung’s Galaxy F70e is priced at ₹2,000 ($22/€19) less for both options. Oppo has commenced pre-orders on its website, with shipping slated to start on February 16.

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  • Tecno Pova Curve 2: Thinner Design, Double iPhone 17 Pro Battery

    Tecno Pova Curve 2: Thinner Design, Double iPhone 17 Pro Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tecno Pova Curve 2 is 16% slimmer and 5% lighter than the Apple iPhone 17 Pro, measuring 0.29 inches thick and weighing 6.9 oz.
    2. It features an impressive 8,000mAh battery, designed to last up to two days, and supports 45W fast charging via USB-C.
    3. The smartphone has a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 1.5K resolution, providing high-quality visuals.
    4. Camera specifications include a 50MP primary camera, a 13MP front-facing camera, and a 2MP sensor, with a fingerprint sensor likely under the display.
    5. The device has an IP64 rating for durability, making it resistant to splashes but not fully waterproof, and is expected to launch in India soon.

    With a slimness of 0.29 inches and weighing 6.9 oz, the Tecno Pova Curve 2 is 16% slimmer and 5% lighter compared to the Apple iPhone 17 Pro. In addition, Tecno claims that its battery offers more than double the capacity of the iPhone 17 Pro.

    Impressive Battery Life

    A teaser page reveals that the Tecno Pova Curve 2 features an 8,000mAh battery, designed to last up to two full days. The design of this new mid-range smartphone has also been showcased. Unlike the common flat panel trend, Tecno has opted for a display that curves on both the left and right sides. The power button stands out in a bright orange color. At the back, there is a transparent triangle that reveals the SIM card slot and a barcode.

    Design and Hardware Details

    Previously, a leak had already uncovered the complete design and many hardware specifications of the Tecno Pova Curve 2 back in December. The report stated that the 8,000mAh battery supports charging via USB-C at speeds of up to 45 watts. The device features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 144Hz and a 1.5K resolution. It is also expected to be powered by the new MediaTek Dimensity 7100 chip, with options ranging from 8GB to 12GB of RAM and 128GB to 256GB of internal storage.

    Camera and Durability Features

    Rumors suggest that Tecno has chosen a 13MP front-facing camera, a 50MP primary camera, and a seemingly unnecessary 2MP sensor. The fingerprint sensor might be located under the display, while the chassis is believed to have an IP64 rating, meaning it can resist splashes but is not entirely waterproof. The Tecno Pova Curve 2 is anticipated to be officially launched in India later this week.

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  • Baseus Launches Slim 10,000 mAh 25W Qi2.2 Certified Power Bank

    Baseus Launches Slim 10,000 mAh 25W Qi2.2 Certified Power Bank

    Key Takeaways

    1. Faster Charging: The Baseus PicoGo AM52 offers up to 25W of wireless charging and 45W through an extra USB-C port for quicker wired charging.

    2. Qi2.2 Certification: It is Qi2.2-certified, compatible with the latest iPhone 17 and other Qi2.2 devices, enhancing its usability.

    3. Design Enhancements: The power bank is more streamlined at 0.63 inches thick, features rounded edges for better grip, and operates at cooler temperatures due to advanced materials.

    4. Quick Recharge Time: The power bank itself can recharge in about 1.5 hours at a rate of up to 30W.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at $79.99 in the US (discounted to $59.99 on the Baseus website) and €59.99 in Europe at launch.

    Baseus has officially launched the PicoGo AM52 Qi2.2 Magnetic Power Bank worldwide. This new product was introduced in October 2025 and boasts faster Qi2 25W wireless charging capabilities. It is now purchasable in both the US and Europe, and it seems to present several enhancements compared to its predecessor, the PicoGo AM61.

    Enhanced Charging Features

    As mentioned in previous updates, the Baseus PicoGo AM52 power bank is Qi2.2-certified, allowing it to provide up to 25W of wireless charging for the latest iPhone 17 models and other Qi2.2 compatible phones such as the iPhone 16 series and Google Pixel 10 Pro XL. Additionally, it features an extra USB-C port that offers up to 45W for quicker wired charging, enabling you to charge two devices simultaneously while on the go. The power bank itself can recharge at a rate of up to 30W, needing about 1.5 hours for a complete recharge.

    Notable Design Improvements

    While the specifications appear similar to the PicoGo AM61, the new model introduces some significant updates. Both devices have a sturdy aluminum exterior, but the PicoGo AM52 is more streamlined at 0.63 inches thick, compared to 0.7 inches for the AM61. It also has rounded edges, making it easier to grip. Baseus claims that the new version operates at cooler temperatures, thanks to an advanced graphene layer and an AI-driven temperature regulation chip.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Baseus PicoGo AM52 can now be found for $79.99 on Amazon in the US, with an introductory discount bringing the cost down to $59.99 on the Baseus website. In Europe, it is also available at a promotional launch price of €59.99 through the Baseus online store.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Leaked Specs Reveal Exciting New Features

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Leaked Specs Reveal Exciting New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S26 series on February 25, including the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra.
    2. The Galaxy S26 lineup will run on One UI 8.5 based on Android 16, with varying processors: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Ultra and Exynos 2600 for S26 and S26+.
    3. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will have an optional configuration of 16 GB RAM and 1 TB storage, making it a powerhouse device.
    4. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will support dual SIM functionality, while the S26 and S26+ will have a single SIM slot with eSIM capabilities.
    5. Pricing for the Galaxy S26 series starts at €999 for the S26, €1,269 for the S26+, and €1,459 for the S26 Ultra.

    Samsung is just about to unveil its new Galaxy S26 series, which includes the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. This announcement is set to happen on February 25, and the current price for the Galaxy S25 series is around $760 for a refurbished model on Amazon. Meanwhile, Roland Quandt has managed to gather detailed specifications for all three upcoming flagship models.

    Details on Software and Performance

    All three devices in the Galaxy S26 lineup will run on One UI 8.5, which is based on Android 16. However, in Europe, it appears that only the Galaxy S26 Ultra will be equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. The Galaxy S26 and S26+ will feature the Exynos 2600 chipset instead. Additionally, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will come with an optional configuration offering 16 GB of RAM and a massive 1 TB of storage.

    Unique Features of the Galaxy S26 Ultra

    The Galaxy S26 Ultra will also be the first smartphone to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, boasting prime cores that operate at 4.74 GHz. It’s still unclear whether Samsung will brand this as the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy. Notably, the Galaxy S26 Ultra will be the only model in the series that supports dual SIM functionality with two physical SIM cards.

    On the flip side, the Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus will utilize a single physical SIM card slot, supplemented by eSIM capabilities. The Galaxy S26 is anticipated to have a starting price of €999, while the Galaxy S26 Plus is expected to retail for €1,269. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will be priced starting at €1,459 in the Eurozone. For more detailed information, refer to the table below.

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  • Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max Price Predictions Amid RAM Crisis

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max Price Predictions Amid RAM Crisis

    Key Takeaways

    1. iPhone 17 Pro may see a price increase due to rising RAM and storage costs.
    2. The Apple A20 Pro processor for the iPhone 18 Pro will likely be more expensive due to advanced manufacturing processes.
    3. Apple might accept lower profit margins to maintain prices for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.
    4. Expected pricing for the iPhone 18 Pro (256GB) is $1,099 and $1,199 for the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
    5. Apple could negotiate with suppliers and find cost-cutting measures for components like displays and cameras.

    Over the last few weeks, there have been whispers that the next version of the iPhone 17 Pro might come with a higher price tag. Reports indicate that Apple’s RAM expenses have doubled because of the ongoing DRAM crisis, and prices for NAND flash storage are also on the rise.

    Rising Processor Costs

    Moreover, the anticipated Apple A20 Pro processor that will likely drive the iPhone 18 Pro could be much pricier than the Apple A19 Pro. This increase is due to the new chipset being built on TSMC’s advanced 2nm manufacturing process in Taiwan. According to MacRumors, analyst Jeff Pu suggests that Apple might take on these elevated costs and settle for lower profit margins. As a result, it seems that the starting prices for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will remain the same as those of the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

    Pricing Expectations

    If these assertions hold water, the iPhone 18 Pro featuring 256GB of storage would be priced at $1,099, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max with the same storage would come in at $1,199 in the US. To minimize the effect of rising costs on profit margins, Apple could push hard in negotiations with suppliers, particularly with DRAM manufacturers like SK hynix and Samsung. There are also indications that Apple might have discovered ways to cut costs on other essential components, such as the display and cameras. The iPhone 18 series is expected to make its debut in September.

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