Category: Phones

  • Oppo F27 Pro Series: Are These IP69 Smartphones Worth the Wait?

    Oppo F27 Pro Series: Are These IP69 Smartphones Worth the Wait?

    Oppo has announced the introduction of a new smartphone series in India, the Oppo F27 Pro series, which will include two models: the Oppo F27 Pro and F27 Pro+.

    The launch date is set for June 13. This article will explore whether these devices are worth your attention.

    Design & Display

    The design of the Oppo F27 Pro series, particularly the F27 Pro+, mirrors that of the Chinese Oppo A3 Pro. The phones boast a vegan leather back and a circular camera island. On the front, they are anticipated to feature a curved AMOLED display measuring 6.7 inches, with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.

    Key Selling Point

    Apart from their stylish appearance, the standout feature of these upcoming smartphones is their durability. The Oppo F27 Pro series will be India's first smartphones to receive IP69 certification for water and dust resistance.

    IP69 is the highest protection level against solids and liquids, designed to function in extreme conditions, including frequent exposure to water, dust, and debris. Additionally, the devices can be submerged underwater for extended periods. The front is further protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, capable of surviving a 3-foot drop onto hard surfaces like concrete and up to 6.5 feet onto surfaces like asphalt.

    Performance

    Under the hood, the Oppo F27 Pro+ is expected to house the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC, launched in May 2023. This chip features two Cortex-A78 cores clocked at 2600 MHz and six Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2000 MHz, built on a 6-nanometer process. The chip will be paired with LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 3.1 storage.

    Performance-wise, the device is expected to score around 545,000 points on AnTuTu. It was also recently seen on Geekbench 6, scoring 886 points in the single-core test and 2305 points in the multi-core test. This indicates that users should not experience any lag or stutter during daily tasks.

    Optics

    In the camera department, the F27 Pro+ is expected to feature a 64 MP main camera with an ƒ/1.7 aperture and AF autofocus. The secondary camera on the back will likely be a 2 MP portrait lens with fixed focus. On the front, the device will sport a basic 8 MP camera with an ƒ/2.0 aperture. The phone will likely include modes such as portrait, night scene, ultra-clear picture quality, panorama, slow motion, time-lapse photography, and multi-scene recording.

    Battery & Other Features

    The battery capacity of these devices is expected to be around 5,000 mAh, supporting 67W fast charging. Additionally, the device will likely offer an in-display fingerprint scanner and Bluetooth 5.3.

    Verdict

    While the device might not stand out in terms of specifications, its design and durability make it unique. If you are looking for a premium-looking mid-range smartphone that can withstand some rough handling, the Oppo F27 Pro series is worth the wait.

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  • Apple Unveils iPhone Software Support Policy for First Time

    Apple Unveils iPhone Software Support Policy for First Time

    Apple’s iPhones have long been recognized for their extensive software support policies. The tech giant from Cupertino typically provides OS updates for five years, with certain models even receiving updates beyond that timeframe. However, the company had never officially disclosed the guaranteed duration of software support—until now. Due to new regulations in the UK, Apple has been compelled to declare the minimum number of years it will support its iPhones with software updates.

    Apple Confirms Software Support Policy for iPhones

    Samsung and Google recently committed to seven years of software updates for their latest flagship models, the Galaxy S24 series and the Pixel 8 series. In response, Apple has, for the first time, officially stated that it will provide software updates for at least five years from the device's initial supply date, which is the first sale date. This means that the iPhone 15 series will receive updates until at least September 2028, likely including iOS 22.

    Comparing Apple's Policy with Competitors

    While Apple's five-year minimum software support policy is two years shorter than that of its competitors, the emphasis is on the term 'minimum.' Apple has often extended updates beyond the stated minimum in the past. The company does not distinguish between flagship and mid-range models, unlike many Android brands, ensuring that each iPhone receives the same duration of software support.

    Mid-Range vs. Flagship Support

    Samsung and Google's seven-year software support is exclusively for their top-tier flagship devices. In contrast, their mid-range phones typically receive up to three years of updates. Thus, despite the longer support periods promised by its competitors, Apple still holds an advantage in its consistent software support policy across all iPhone models.

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  • Infinix Note 40 Racing Edition with BMW Design Released

    Infinix Note 40 Racing Edition with BMW Design Released

    Infinix has recently hinted at the launch of new special edition variants of its Note 40 series. Now, the company has officially introduced the Infinix Note 40 series Racing Edition with a fresh design. So, what’s new and different here? Let’s dive in.

    Infinix Note 40 Series Racing Edition Unveiled

    The company has rolled out the Racing Edition for the Note 40, Note 40 5G, Note 40 Pro, Note 40 Pro 5G, and Note 40 Pro+ 5G. These special models are created in collaboration with BMW Group Designworks. The Wing of Speed design graces the rear with iconic lines that flow across the device, forming grooves like tiny ridges for better grip. These grooves are crafted using an advanced UV transfer printing technique.

    All five models in the Racing Edition lineup are available in a silver color option with a glossy finish. Additionally, the recognizable tri-color is featured on the rear camera module. The Infinix Note 40 series Racing Edition also includes some software enhancements. Users can enjoy exclusive wallpapers and UI elements inspired by racetracks.

    Pricing and Availability

    While the design has seen significant changes, the internal specifications remain the same as the standard Infinix Note 40 lineup. Here are the details on pricing and availability:

    • Infinix Note 40 Racing Edition – Starting price of 209 US Dollars
    • Infinix Note 40 5G Racing Edition – Starting price of 259 US Dollars
    • Infinix Note 40 Pro Racing Edition – Starting price of 279 US Dollars
    • Infinix Note 40 Pro 5G Racing Edition – Starting price of 309 US Dollars
    • Infinix Note 40 Pro+ 5G Racing Edition – Starting price of 329 US Dollars

    The new limited edition devices are available globally starting today (6th June 2024).

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  • Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 & Honor Magic V3 Leak: 5000mAh Batteries

    Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 & Honor Magic V3 Leak: 5000mAh Batteries

    Xiaomi and Honor are in the process of developing their latest book-style foldable phones, known as the Mix Fold 4 and Magic V3, respectively. Both devices are anticipated to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.

    Battery and Design

    The Mix Fold 4 is rumored to feature a 5000mAh battery. Although initial details about the Magic V3's battery were scarce, it was hinted to have a larger battery. However, a recent update from Digital Chat Station on Weibo confirmed that the Magic V3 will also sport a 5000mAh battery, similar to the Mix Fold 4.

    Currently, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro boasts the largest battery among foldables, with a substantial 5700mAh capacity, and is expected to retain this title for the foreseeable future.

    Camera and Fingerprint Sensors

    Both foldables are set to include side-mounted fingerprint sensors, a feature carried over from their previous models. The Mix Fold 4 is expected to be the thinnest foldable on the market when it launches, as suggested by recent leaks.

    Moreover, the tipster corroborated earlier reports about the Mix Fold 4's camera setup, which will include a 50MP quad-camera system featuring a 5x periscope lens. However, the camera bulge on Xiaomi’s foldable is said to be quite prominent. In contrast, the Honor Magic V3 is expected to have a centrally aligned camera with minimal protrusion.

    Upcoming Devices

    In addition to their book-style foldables, both brands are also developing flip-style foldables. Honor has already announced the Magic V Flip, which is set to debut on June 20. On the other hand, Xiaomi has yet to release details about its flip phone.

    Both the Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 and Honor Magic V3 are slated for a July release. Xiaomi may also unveil its flip phone alongside the Mix Fold 4.

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  • Vivo X Fold 3 Pro Launches in India: Price, Variants & Offers

    Vivo X Fold 3 Pro Launches in India: Price, Variants & Offers

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro has made its debut in the Indian market today, featuring advanced foldable technology and robust specifications. Initially launched in China in March this year, let's explore its pricing, available variants, and attractive launch offers.

    Price and Variants

    In India, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro comes in a single variant with 16GB RAM and 512GB internal storage, priced at Rs. 1,59,999 ($1916). While the price might seem high, it reflects the premium nature of foldable smartphones.

    In China, an additional 1TB storage option is available, but this variant hasn't been introduced in India yet. The Chinese market offers two configurations: the 16GB + 512GB variant at 9,999 yuan ($1,380) and the 16GB + 1TB variant at 10,999 yuan ($1,518). In India, the phone is available in Celestial Black, whereas the Chinese versions come in Eclipse Black and Solar White.

    Launch Offers in India

    To attract early buyers, Vivo has introduced several enticing launch offers for the X Fold 3 Pro in India:

    • Instant Discount: A flat Rs. 15,000 instant discount is available for purchases made using ICICI, SBI, HDFC, AMEX, or HSBC bank cards, significantly lowering the phone's effective price.
    • Free Screen Replacement: Vivo is providing a one-time free screen replacement, a valuable offer considering the delicate nature of foldable displays.
    • No-Cost EMI: Buyers can choose no-cost EMI options for up to 24 months, making the phone more affordable via monthly installments.
    • Exchange Bonus: An exchange bonus of up to Rs. 10,000 is available for trading in old smartphones, further reducing the cost.
    • V-Shield Protection: Customers can get a 20% discount on V-Shield protection, adding extra security to their investment.

    Availability

    Pre-booking for the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro starts on June 6th, 2024, and it will go on sale from June 13th. The phone can be purchased from the Vivo India eStore, Amazon.in, Flipkart, and select offline stores. Additionally, Vivo is launching a 50W wireless charger priced at Rs. 5,599, available from June 17th via the Vivo India eStore and offline stores.

    Comparison with Chinese Launch

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro was first launched in China in March 2024, with a slightly different set of variants and pricing. The Chinese market offered a 16GB/1TB model alongside the 16GB/512GB variant, providing more storage choices. Prices in China were slightly lower, often due to factors like import duties, taxes, and regional market dynamics. The key difference lies in the operating system: the Chinese variant runs on OriginOS 4, while the Indian version features Funtouch OS 14.5.

    Quick Specifications

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro features an 8.03-inch 2K+ inner foldable screen and a 6.53-inch FHD+ outer display, both with 120Hz refresh rates. It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, paired with Adreno 750 GPU. The camera system includes a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 50MP ultrawide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens. Dual 32MP selfie cameras are provided for both the inner and outer displays. A large 5700mAh battery supports 100W wired and 50W wireless charging.

    Conclusion

    The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro has certainly generated excitement in the Indian market with its innovative design, powerful specs, and competitive pricing. The launch offers enhance its appeal, making it a compelling choice. Although the single variant and relatively high price might be drawbacks for some, the overall package is impressive. As the device becomes available, it will be interesting to see its performance in the Indian market and whether it can establish a niche among the growing number of foldable smartphones.

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  • Xiaomi Mix Flip Global Launch: HyperOS Phone Visits IMDA

    Xiaomi Mix Flip Global Launch: HyperOS Phone Visits IMDA

    Xiaomi is gearing up to release its next-generation flip phone, as a recent certification suggests that the Mix Flip announcement may be imminent. The foldable device has been spotted on the IMDA listing, which is a certification in Singapore. Here are the details you need to know.

    Xiaomi Mix Flip on IMDA

    The Mix Flip from the Chinese tech giant was found on the IMDA database with the model number 2405CPX3DG. It is listed as a “5G Mobile Phone with Bluetooth, WiFi, and NFC,” indicating that this device could be a global variant, given its appearance outside of China. The Mix Flip is anticipated to include NFC support. To recall, this smartphone is expected to be a flagship model.

    Specifications and Features

    Recently, the Mix Flip was also seen on the IMEI database alongside the Xiaomi 14T and 14T Pro models. Based on current information, the upcoming Mix Flip is likely to come with high-end specs and features. It may be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and could have a 4,800mAh or 4,900mAh battery. Thanks to a 3C certification sighting, we know this model may support 67W fast charging.

    Advanced Capabilities

    According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the Xiaomi Mix Flip might support two-way satellite connectivity, enabling users to send SOS signals in emergencies. An earlier leak revealed the design of the smartphone, showing an ultra-slim bezel primary display, which may offer a 1.5K resolution. Camera details include a 50-megapixel primary sensor on the back, accompanied by a 60-megapixel telephoto Omnivision OV60A sensor with 2x zoom. The front of the device features a 32-megapixel selfie shooter.

    Xiaomi Mix Flip Global Launch: HyperOS Phone Visits IMDA
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  • CMF Phone 1 with Orange Leather Back, Smart Dial Launch Confirmed

    CMF Phone 1 with Orange Leather Back, Smart Dial Launch Confirmed

    Earlier today, Nothing CEO Carl Pei hinted that the launch of Phone (3) might be delayed until 2025. Now, CMF, a sub-brand of Nothing, has officially announced the release of its first smartphone, the CMF Phone 1. The teaser image offers a sneak peek at what to expect from this new device. For those who don't know, CMF by Nothing targets the budget-friendly market segment. Previously, key specifications of this sub-brand’s debut smartphone were leaked.

    CMF Phone 1 is Launching Soon

    In a tweet, CMF described its first smartphone as having an exceptional design. It aims to utilize Nothing’s innovative design philosophy and meticulous attention to detail. The sub-brand is focusing on an often-overlooked market segment. The CMF Phone 1 will act as an entry-level device into the company’s broader product ecosystem, indicating it will be an affordable option.

    However, don't expect the CMF Phone 1 to look like Nothing’s existing smartphones. The teaser image confirms it won’t have a transparent back panel or the Glyph interface. Instead, it will feature a leather-textured back panel in an Orange color, consistent with the sub-brand’s other devices. Notably, there is a dial on the bottom right side of the device similar to the one found on the Neckband Pro. Its function on the smartphone is still unclear.

    Availability and Specifications

    The CMF Phone 1 will be available on Flipkart in India, like other devices from the brand.

    Leaked specs indicate the CMF Phone 1 will sport a 6.7-inch 120Hz OLED display, a 50MP rear camera, and a 16MP front camera. It is rumored to be powered by a Dimensity 7200 SoC, coupled with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The phone is expected to be priced between $249 to $279 and could be launched next month.

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  • OxygenOS 15: Final Major Update for These OnePlus Devices

    OxygenOS 15: Final Major Update for These OnePlus Devices

    Android 15 is in its final development stages and is approaching the platform stability phase for final refinements before its public release. It promises several exciting features such as satellite connectivity, private space, app archiving, and more.

    List of Devices Ending Major Support with Android 15

    Each year, various Android devices reach the end of their major update support. Below is a list of OnePlus phones and tablets that will get Android 15-based OxygenOS 15 as their last significant update. Check if you’ll need to upgrade to a newer model next year to continue receiving the latest features and improvements.

    OnePlus Devices That Won’t Get Any Major Updates After Android 15:

    • OnePlus 10 Pro
    • OnePlus 10T
    • OnePlus 10R
    • OnePlus 10R 150W
    • OnePlus Nord N30 SE
    • OnePlus Nord CE 3
    • OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite
    • OnePlus Pad Go

    These devices will get the Android 15 update, but it will be their last major OS upgrade. Future OS updates post-Android 15 are unlikely.

    OnePlus Software Update Policy

    OnePlus provides generous software support for its devices. High-end models receive four years of OS updates and five years of security updates. Newer Nord models like the OnePlus Nord 3 get three OS updates, while older models receive two. The Nord N and Nord CE series typically get two major Android updates.

    OnePlus has always had a decent software policy, but extended support for newer models has made it one of the top brands for software updates. Google’s recent announcement of seven years of updates for the Pixel 8 series set a new benchmark, which Samsung quickly matched for its Galaxy S24 series.

    OnePlus has a different approach to software support. In an interview with Tom’s Guide, OnePlus President Kinder Liu explained, “Simply offering longer software update policies completely misses the point. It’s not just software update policies that are important to the user, it’s the fluency of your phone’s user experience too.”

    So, don’t expect extended software support from OnePlus for now. However, offering four OS updates is still commendable, a feat many brands struggle to achieve.

    Exciting Features in Android 15

    Android 15 is confirmed to support Satellite Connectivity, which will allow users to send texts even without nearby cell towers. It supports SMS, MMS, and preloaded RCS apps, making it useful beyond emergency situations.

    Users can choose a default note-taking app from Settings, capturing all or part of the screen for note insertion via Android’s Content Capture API. You can also save your favorite split-screen combinations for quicker access, with a shortcut on the home screen to instantly open both apps in split-screen mode.

    Android 15 introduces Private Space to protect sensitive files and apps with an additional security layer, similar to Samsung’s Secure Folder. This feature creates a separate space hidden from the regular area, allowing a different Google account and lock screen for enhanced security.

    The app archiving feature initially introduced via the Google Play Store allows unarchiving apps to save storage while keeping user data intact. Android 15 integrates this feature at the OS level, enabling archiving and restoring any apps, even those installed outside the Play Store.

    Partial screen sharing is another key feature, allowing users to share or record a single app rather than the entire screen. The Notification Cooldown feature reduces the volume of successive notifications from the same app. Additionally, the new OS brings a high-quality webcam mode, improving video quality by disabling power optimizations. You can enable this mode by tapping the “HQ” symbol in the webcam preview mode.

    Do you consider the software update policy when choosing a new smartphone? Share your thoughts on the update policy for your device in the comments below.

    More on Android 15:

    1. OnePlus Devices That Won’t Get Android 15 Update
    2. Android 15 Improves Battery Standby Time up to 3 Hours With Faster Doze Mode
    3. How to Download and Install Android 15 Beta on OnePlus
    4. 10 Amazing Features Coming to Android 15
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  • Oppo Reno 12 Series Launch Globally This Month, Find X Next

    Oppo Reno 12 Series Launch Globally This Month, Find X Next

    Oppo held a press event in London on Wednesday (June 5) where it announced plans to introduce generative AI features to 50 million users globally by the end of this year. According to GSMArena, the company also shared details about the international launch of the Reno 12 series and the next-generation Find X series of smartphones.

    Reno 12 Series Global Launch in June

    Reno 12 series teaser for the global market
    The Reno 12 series of smartphones is expected to make its global debut later this month (June). Last month (May), the Reno 12 and 12 Pro were launched in China, featuring the Dimensity 8250 and Dimensity 9200+ chipsets. It remains uncertain if the same models will be released globally.

    During the event, the company showcased the teaser image above. While no additional details about the Reno 12 series were revealed, the image hints that the global market might receive both a standard variant and a Pro model.

    Oppo Find X Series to Return to Global Market

    In February 2022, Oppo launched the Find X5 series of smartphones. The company continued the release of the X6 and X7 series in China but did not make these models available internationally.

    Reports suggest that the Find X8, equipped with the upcoming Dimensity 9400 chipset, will debut in China in October this year. The Find X8 Ultra, expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, might launch in Q1 2025. With Oppo confirming the return of the Find X series to the global market, it remains to be seen if both the X8 and X8 Ultra will be released internationally.

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  • Oppo F27 Pro+ Leaked: Specs, Unboxing & Hands-on Before Launch

    Oppo F27 Pro+ Leaked: Specs, Unboxing & Hands-on Before Launch

    Oppo F27 Pro+ is an upcoming mid-range smartphone that is set to launch in India soon. But ahead of its official release, the device has been spotted in a massive leak that revealed its key specs along with a video of its unboxing and hands-on. So let’s have a look.

    Oppo F27 Pro+ leaked video

    https://twitter.com/Sudhanshu1414/status/1798577470876393644

    This leak was shared on X (formerly Twitter) by known tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore. Looking at the video, we get a view of the Oppo F27 Pro+’s retail box. The device was unboxed with the new phone coming with an 80W charging brick and wire. The smartphone can be seen with vegan leather at the back as well as a large circular camera module. Meanwhile, the front arrives with a curved display. The tipster also revealed key specifications of this device. It sports a tall 6.7-inch curved AMOLED display with an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.

    Under the hood, the Oppo F27 Pro+ is expected to be equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 SoC, which is paired with LPDDR4X memory and UFS 3.1 internal storage. For optics, the rear packs a 64-megapixel primary sensor and a 2-megapixel secondary shooter. Meanwhile, the front houses an 8-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. A large 5,000mAh battery pack powers this device that supports 67W wired fast charging.

    This model runs on the Android 14 OS based ColorOS custom skin. A notable aspect of this device is that it could be the first smartphone to launch in India with an IP69 water and dust resistance. Earlier this week, this device was also spotted on GeekBench and the Camera FV-5 listings. So we know that there is at least one variant with 8GB of RAM. The camera resolution for the front and rear sensors were also revealed along with EIS support.

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