Category: Phones

May 4, 2024
TCL 50 XL 5G: Dimensity 6100+, FHD+ 120Hz Display
Chinese electronics manufacturer TCL introduced the TCL 50 series smartphones at CES 2024 earlier this year. Among them was the TCL 50 XL 5G, priced at less than $169. This smartphone is now available in the North American market.
TCL 50 XL 5G Arrives in North America
Orders for the TCL 50 XL 5G are open through Metro by T-Mobile in North America, priced at $159.99 before any potential new customer deals. The phone boasts a 6.78-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2,460 x 1,080p, a 20:9 aspect ratio, a 2.5D glass finish, and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
Impressive Specifications
In terms of camera capabilities, the TCL 50 XL 5G features a 50 MP primary camera, along with a 2 MP ultra-wide-angle camera and a 2 MP depth sensor. Additionally, it includes an 8 MP front-facing selfie camera. Powering the device is a MediaTek Dimensity 6100 Plus processor, combined with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, with the option to expand storage via a MicroSD card.
Notable Features and Design
The phone is equipped with a 5,010 mAh battery that supports 18W fast charging. Measuring 167.6 x 75.5 x 8.22 mm and weighing 195 g, it offers a sleek and manageable form factor. Running on Android 14 out of the box, the TCL 50 XL 5G includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for enhanced security.
Tags: specifications, TCL 50 XL 5G
May 4, 2024
Huawei Pura 70 Series Smartphones Launch in Europe at €999
Huawei recently introduced its latest Pura 70 series to the global market, commencing with its launch in Malaysia and subsequently expanding to the European market.
Huawei Pura 70 Series Specifications
The Pura 70 Ultra and Pro variants boast a 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness reaching 2,500 nits. In contrast, the standard model features a slightly smaller 6.6-inch screen.
Under the hood, the Pura 70 is powered by the Kirin 900S1 chip, while the Ultra and Pro models are furnished with Huawei’s newest Kirin 9010 chip. Notably, these international versions operate on EMUI 14.2 rather than HarmonyOS, which is found on the Chinese editions.
Camera and Battery Features
In the camera department, each model within the series offers distinct setups. For instance, the Pura 70 Ultra showcases a distinctive arrangement, including a 1-inch 50MP primary camera with a retractable lens, a 50MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom and OIS, and a 40MP ultra-wide lens with autofocus.
On the other hand, the Pura 70 Pro features a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 48MP telephoto lens with OIS and 3.5x optical zoom, and a 12.5MP ultra-wide lens. Meanwhile, the base model shares the Pro’s 50MP main sensor but diverges in its telephoto lens configuration, incorporating a 12MP periscope lens with OIS and 5x optical zoom, alongside a 13MP ultra-wide lens.
Battery capacities vary across the models. The Pura 70 Ultra is equipped with a 5,200mAh battery and supports 100W wired charging, 80W wireless charging, and 20W reverse wireless charging. Comparatively, the Pura 70 Pro houses a slightly smaller 5,050mAh battery while offering the same charging capabilities. The standard Pura 70 is fitted with a 4,900mAh battery and supports 66W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and 7.5W reverse wireless charging.
Pricing and Availability
Within the Eurozone, the Pura 70 is priced at €999, available in Black or White, and comes with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. The Pura 70 Pro, also offered in Black or White with identical memory and storage configurations, is priced at €1,199. At the top of the range, the Pura 70 Ultra is priced at €1,499, available in Black, Brown, or Green, providing 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage.
Tags: Huawei, Huawei Pura 70 Series, smartphone specifications
May 4, 2024
90s Iconic Nokia 3210 Rebooted in 2024 with 4G Upgrade
HMD Global, the company responsible for Nokia devices, is embracing nostalgia with their upcoming releases. Following the revival of the Nokia 6310, the iconic Nokia 3210 from 1999 is set to make a comeback in 2024 with a blend of modern features.
Revamped Nokia 3210 (2024) Specifications
The 2024 version of the Nokia 3210 takes design cues from the 6310 rather than the original bulky silhouette. It boasts a more contemporary appearance while still retaining a touch of its classic design, such as the horizontally aligned Nokia logo on the back. Notable additions include a 2-megapixel rear camera, a significant upgrade from the camera-less setup of the original model.
Features and Design
Internally, the Nokia 3210 (2024) is tailored as a feature phone with modest specifications. It sports a 2.4-inch QVGA display for basic visuals and operates on the Unisoc T107 processor. Users can choose from storage options of 64GB or 128GB, expandable via a microSD card for additional space. The device is powered by a 1450 mAh battery ensuring prolonged usage and features the beloved Snake game for a nostalgic touch.
Connectivity and Pricing
Connectivity options include dual SIM support for Nano-SIM cards, Bluetooth 5.0, a USB-C port for charging – a notable upgrade, retention of the classic 3.5mm headphone jack, and compatibility with 4G networks. The Nokia 3210 (2024) is scheduled to launch on May 8th with a price tag of €89, available for purchase from May 15th onwards. This device is ideal for those in search of a dependable basic phone or a means to disconnect digitally.
Tags: Feature Phones, Nokia 3210 (2024), Nostalgia
May 4, 2024
Funtouch OS 14 Update Excludes These Vivo & iQOO Devices in India
Software updates are thrilling because they introduce new features and enhancements. When a major Android update is announced, users anticipate a plethora of fresh features and modifications. Unfortunately, the newest Funtouch OS 14 skin, based on Android 14, will not be available for most Vivo and iQOO devices. If you own a Vivo or iQOO-branded device, make sure it is not listed as ineligible for the Funtouch OS 14 update.
Devices Ineligible for Funtouch OS 14 Update
Below is a list of Vivo and iQOO devices that will not receive the Funtouch OS 14 (Android 14) upgrade in India. Additionally, this post highlights the significant changes in the latest Funtouch OS skin.
These Vivo and iQOO Devices Won’t Receive Funtouch OS 14 Update in India:
- Vivo X Series: Vivo X50, Vivo X50 Pro, Older X-series phones
- Vivo V Series: Vivo V20 Pro, Vivo V20, Vivo V20 SE, Older V-series phones
- Vivo T Series: Vivo T1x 4G
- Vivo Y Series: Vivo Y02, Vivo Y16, Vivo Y22, Vivo Y15c, Vivo Y01, Vivo Y21G, Vivo Y15s, Vivo Y21A, Vivo Y21e, Vivo Y21T, Y-series phones released before 2022
- iQOO Number Series: All iQOO phones older than iQOO 7 series
- iQOO Z Series: iQOO Z5 5G, iQOO Z3, Older Z-series phones
These Vivo and iQOO phones are excluded from the Funtouch OS 14 upgrade based on official details. If your device is not on this list, anticipate the next significant update. Meanwhile, discover the key changes you'll encounter after updating to the latest Funtouch OS skin.
What’s Fresh in Funtouch OS 14
Smooth Envision
"Smooth Envision" denotes the performance optimizations in Funtouch OS 14 geared towards a seamless user experience. This latest Vivo skin trims down persistent processes, optimizes RAM usage, boosts system performance, and responsiveness to facilitate running multiple apps concurrently.
Smoother Visuals
Certain Vivo and iQOO phones running Funtouch OS 14 benefit from Motion Blur, utilizing advanced algorithms for smoother visual transitions when opening and closing apps on the home screen. This can enhance visual smoothness by up to 18.7% on a 60 Hz refresh rate screen.
Better Multitasking
Funtouch OS 14 enhances multitasking with an upgraded small window feature enabling users to maintain up to 12 small windows active in the background. The OS also introduces side-swipe suspension for improved control and a new non-interactive small window mode for seamless switching between modes with just a single tap.
Enhanced Video Editing Capabilities
Funtouch OS 14 includes enhanced video editing tools, enabling users to craft unique content without relying on third-party apps. Users can adjust video quality settings up to 4K at 60 fps, export videos in original quality, and utilize 25 filters for creating engaging videos.
More Personalization Options
Funtouch OS 14 offers users expanded personalization options with three lock screen layouts, eight font styles, new always-on display (AOD) styles, and a minimalist theme. Users can access a Material You-based monochrome theme named My color palette, offering a variety of colors and optimizing display for grayscale visuals to save power.
Smart Mirroring
Funtouch OS 14 introduces Smart Mirroring, allowing users to share their screen without exposing personal or sensitive information in the notification bar. This feature is crucial for safeguarding important details from accidental display to others.
If you own a Vivo or iQOO phone, which Funtouch OS 14 feature do you find most appealing? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Additionally, check out these articles:
1. Vivo Phone With Satellite Connectivity in the Works
2. How to Hide or Unhide Apps in Vivo Phones
Tags: Funtouch OS 14, iQOO, vivo
May 4, 2024
Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Featured in Video Running AnTuTu Benchmark
Qualcomm has been quite secretive about the details of their upcoming flagship mobile processor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. Nonetheless, leaks and speculations have been emerging, gradually shedding light on its features.
Leak Reveals Potential Launch Date
Recent leaks suggest that the initial smartphones equipped with this System on Chip (SoC) might hit the market as early as October.
Engineering Sample Benchmark Leak
In another leak today, a video surfaced on Bilibili (via @negativeonehero on Twitter) showcasing an engineering sample of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 being put through benchmark tests.
During testing on AnTuTu, the SoC achieved a score of 1,769,083 points, slightly lower than the current Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
Insights into Core Architecture
The video not only provides benchmark results but also offers a glimpse into the core architecture of the CPU. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 is anticipated to adopt a 2+6 core setup, comprising two high-performance cores and six efficiency cores.
The leaked video confirms this setup, displaying two "Phoenix M" cores with a peak clock speed of 2.4 GHz and "Phoenix L" cores limited to 1.939 GHz. The chip is identified with the codename "Sun for Arm x64."
Future Adjustments Expected
Although the revealed clock speeds fall below the previously speculated 4.2 GHz for the performance cores, it is probable that these figures pertain to the engineering sample. Qualcomm is likely to fine-tune these clock speeds in the final version of the chip.
Anticipating Official Unveiling
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4’s actual capabilities, we await Qualcomm’s official product reveal and independent reviews.
Tags: Leak and Rumors, Qualcomm, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4
May 3, 2024
Vivo Y100 4G Global Launch: Snapdragon 685, 80W Fast Charging
Vivo has been actively expanding its smartphone portfolio, with the recent addition of the Vivo Y100 4G to its lineup. This new device is essentially a rebranded version of the Vivo V30 Lite, offering consumers a fresh option in the market.
Vivo Y100 4G Specs:
The Vivo Y100 4G boasts a sizable 6.67-inch E4 AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. It features a high 120Hz refresh rate and reaches a peak brightness of 1,800 nits, ensuring a vibrant and smooth viewing experience.
Performance and Camera:
Powered by a Snapdragon 685 chip, the phone is equipped with 8 GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 256 GB of UFS 2.2 storage. The device sports a 50MP primary camera complemented by a 2MP bokeh sensor on its rear, along with an 8MP front-facing selfie camera.
Battery Life and Features:
The Vivo Y100 4G houses a robust 5,000mAh battery that supports 80W fast charging. Operating on Android 14, it integrates an in-display fingerprint scanner for enhanced security. The phone also offers dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a flicker sensor, catering to various connectivity needs. Additionally, it features dual stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience.
Pricing & Availability:
The Vivo Y100 4G is currently available for purchase in select Asian markets, priced at approximately $250.
Tags: Smartphone, vivo, Y100 4G
May 3, 2024
Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 phone set for mid-October release
Qualcomm’s upcoming flagship mobile processor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, is anticipated to be released this autumn. Recent leaks have cast doubt on previous speculations regarding its capabilities and performance.
Uncertainty Surrounding Early Benchmarks
A leak from Digital Chat Station proposes that the benchmarks leaked earlier were based on preliminary engineering samples of the 8 Gen 4 operating at lower frequencies. Such early versions typically run at reduced speeds for stability assessment purposes.
Revised Architecture Details
New information from the same source indicates that the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 features a “2+6” core configuration. The “2” likely denotes two high-performance cores with clock speeds ranging from 3.6 GHz to 4.0 GHz. The remaining “6” cores are presumably efficiency cores, although specifics on their clock speeds were not disclosed. The chip is purported to achieve scores of approximately 2,700 points in single-core tests and 10,000 points in multi-core tests on Geekbench 6.
Impending Launch and Smartphone Debuts
According to the leak, a smartphone powered by the new chip is expected to debut in mid-October. Xiaomi and OnePlus are traditionally among the first to adopt Qualcomm’s latest premium processors, with Xiaomi’s rumored Xiaomi 15 series likely being the initial phone to showcase the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. OnePlus is also set to feature the chip in its upcoming flagship, the OnePlus 13, which may introduce a redesigned camera system, potentially deviating from the brand’s typical camera layout.
Tags: Oneplus 13, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, Xiaomi 15 series
May 3, 2024
Vivo Y18 Launch in India: 90Hz Display & Water Resistance on Budget
Vivo recently introduced a new smartphone model in India as part of its Y series lineup. This particular device represents the brand's latest budget-friendly offering, boasting impressive specifications and features despite its economical cost. This unveiling closely follows the recent launch of the Vivo Y18e, showcasing the company's rapid pace of innovation in the smartphone market.
Vivo Y18 Specifications
The latest Y18 model from the Chinese manufacturer features a 6.56-inch LCD display with HD+ resolution, TUV Rheinland certification, and a peak brightness of 840 nits. Although it offers a lower resolution, the device compensates with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate screen. Powering the phone is the MediaTek Helio G85 SoC, coupled with up to 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage capacity.
Users have the option to expand storage via a microSD card slot and potentially boost RAM through a 4GB virtual RAM expansion. In terms of photography, the Vivo Y18 is equipped with a 50-megapixel dual camera setup on the rear, complemented by an 8-megapixel front-facing selfie camera.
Advanced Features and Pricing
Fueling the device is a substantial 5,000mAh battery that supports 15W wired fast charging via USB Type-C. Notably, the charging brick is not included in the retail packaging. Additional features include the Android 14 OS with FunTouch OS 14 custom skin, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for security, and an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance.
Pricing and Availability
The Vivo Y18 is competitively priced, starting at 8,999 INR (approximately 108 US Dollars) for the 4GB + 64GB storage variant. Alternatively, the 4GB + 128GB model is available for 9,999 INR (around 120 US Dollars). Interested buyers can purchase the smartphone through the Vivo eStore, with color options including Space Black and Gem Green.
Tags: Budget smartphone, Feature-rich Device, Vivo Y18e
May 3, 2024
Sony Xperia 10 VI Leaked: Dual Cameras, Color Options & More
Sony is gearing up for its Xperia product event scheduled for May 17, where it is anticipated to introduce the Xperia 1 VI flagship smartphone alongside the Xperia 10 VI. These new devices will succeed last year’s Xperia 1 V and 10 V models. While leaks have provided insights into the Xperia 1 VI, details about the Xperia 10 V have been relatively scarce. Notably, renowned tipster Evan Blass, also known as evleaks, has recently shared several press renders of the upcoming Xperia 10 V.
Sony Xperia 10 VI Unveiled in Press Renders
The press renders showcase the Sony Xperia 10 VI in three color choices: Light Blue, Black, and White. The device exhibits a sleek design with a raised pill-shaped section on the back’s top left, housing two camera sensors flanked by an LED flash unit. Interestingly, Sony has opted to exclude the telephoto lens present in its predecessor, indicating that the upcoming model will feature an ultra-wide-angle lens and a primary unit with 2x zoom capabilities.
The Sony Xperia 10 VI boasts a flat frame, with a volume rocker and power button situated on the right side, where the power button also functions as a fingerprint scanner. Its front view reveals a tall aspect ratio display, maintaining Sony’s signature top and bottom bezels. Additionally, one of the images suggests the inclusion of front-firing speakers at the top and bottom of the device.
Notable Features and Specifications
While the IP rating for the Sony Xperia 10 VI remains undisclosed, it is confirmed to offer dust and water resistance. The smartphone retains a 3.5mm headphone jack positioned at the top. Sony is expected to provide a range of covers and cases to complement the upcoming device.
This update on the Xperia 10 VI sheds light on its design elements and anticipated features, setting the stage for Sony’s forthcoming product launch event.
Tags: Smartphone Launch, sony, Xperia 10 VI
May 3, 2024
Oppo and Vivo to Forego Flip Phones in 2022, Tease Innovations
Oppo and Vivo, two pioneering companies in the foldable phone market, introduced innovative designs such as flip-style and larger folding screens. However, a recent rumor suggests that they might be pausing the production of flip phones in 2024.
A Pause in Flip Phones
Insider Digital Chat Station (DCS) hinted in a Weibo post that these major brands won’t be refreshing their clamshell foldables this year, although specific names were not disclosed.
Shift in Strategy
While Samsung gears up for the launch of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Motorola plans its flip phone release, Oppo and Vivo seem to be stepping back. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had previously mentioned that these brands could halt the development of new flip phones for the Chinese market in 2024 due to slower sales.
Future Innovations
DCS hinted at a possible new direction for Oppo and Vivo in 2025, suggesting the launch of a novel foldable phone design. The specifics remain vague, but it could involve unconventional folding methods like a Z-shaped fold or a rollable display.
Emerging Trends
While Samsung and Huawei have been linked to Z-style foldables, the concept of rollable phones is gaining traction. Reports even speculated that Vivo might beat Samsung to the market with a rollable phone, though no recent developments have been disclosed.
Tags: Foldable Phones Market, Oppo, vivo