Category: Phones

  • March anticipated for launch of Vivo X Fold 3 series, renewed speculation on X100 Ultra release timeframe

    March anticipated for launch of Vivo X Fold 3 series, renewed speculation on X100 Ultra release timeframe

    Vivo to Launch New Devices in First Half of 2022

    Smartphone brands are expected to launch new devices after the upcoming Chinese Spring Festival vacation. Vivo, too, is expected to launch a couple of new devices in the first half of this year. A recent leak by tipster Digital Chat Station has revealed the launch timeframes of the upcoming devices, such as the Vivo X Fold 3 series and the X100 Ultra.

    Vivo X Fold 3 and Vivo Pad 3

    According to a recent Weibo post by tipster Digital Chat Station, Vivo’s foldable phone and tablet will launch in March. It is believed that the post refers to the Vivo X Fold 3 series and the Vivo Pad 3.

    The Vivo X Fold 3 and X Fold 3 Pro are expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets, respectively. The former is anticipated to be an affordable foldable phone, while the Pro variant is likely to offer exclusive features such as an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, wireless charging, and a 64-megapixel periscope telephoto camera.

    On the other hand, the Vivo Pad 3 is rumored to feature the Dimensity 9300 chipset. Reports suggest that the tablet will sport a 13-inch display with a 3K resolution and 80W charging support.

    Vivo X100 Ultra

    The leak also suggests that the Vivo X100 Ultra will debut after the Vivo X Fold 3 and Pad 3, indicating a possible launch in the second quarter of the year, specifically in April or May. It is reported that the X100 Ultra will come with a Samsung E7 AMOLED display, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, and a quad-camera setup featuring a 50-megapixel LYT-900 main camera. The device is expected to be equipped with a 5,000mAh battery supporting 100W charging and 50W wireless charging.

    With these upcoming devices, Vivo aims to offer consumers a range of options catering to their diverse needs and preferences. Stay tuned for more updates on the launch and availability of these exciting new Vivo devices.

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  • Chinese Crackdown Targets Apple ID Loan Scams: Caution for iPhone Users

    Chinese Crackdown Targets Apple ID Loan Scams: Caution for iPhone Users

    Chinese Officials Detain Over 40 Individuals Linked to ‘Apple ID Loan’ Fraudulent Activities

    Recent crackdowns by Chinese authorities have resulted in the detention of a significant number of individuals involved in ‘Apple ID loan’ scams, which target iPhone users. This underscores a growing concern regarding online fraud and emphasizes the critical need to protect one’s digital identity.

    The Nature of the Scam and Its Ramifications

    The fraudulent scheme entailed deceiving iPhone users into relinquishing their Apple IDs in exchange for loans. Subsequently, the scammers leveraged these obtained IDs to extort victims by threatening them with exorbitant interest rates and exposure of their personal information in case of default. Such actions not only jeopardize individuals’ privacy but also place their financial well-being in jeopardy.

    Extensive Reach and Severe Consequences

    With over 40 arrests made in relation to these illicit activities, impacting a staggering 20,000 victims spread across 21 provinces, the cumulative amount involved in these deceptions stands at 130 million yuan. This expansive operation underscores the grave peril posed by digital identity theft.

    Exploiting Trust through the Name of Tim Cook

    In an effort to lend credence to their ploys, certain scammers even employed the name of Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook. This specific tactic illuminates how fraudsters can manipulate trust and prey on the vulnerabilities of unsuspecting individuals.

    Heightened Vulnerability in China

    Given that approximately one in five smartphone users in China possess an iPhone, the susceptibility to falling prey to such fraudulent activities remains notably high. This recent enforcement action serves as a stark reminder for iPhone users worldwide to adopt measures to fortify the security of their digital identities. As smartphones play an increasingly integral role in personal and financial transactions, safeguarding digital assets such as Apple IDs becomes imperative.

    Global Imperative for Enhanced Awareness

    While the proactive steps taken by the Chinese law enforcement agencies are commendable, they underscore the universal imperative for heightened awareness and education on digital security. As instances of online fraud grow in sophistication, it becomes paramount for all individuals, notably smartphone users, to stay abreast of developments and maintain a vigilant stance to safeguard their personal data.

    To summarize, the recent apprehensions orchestrated by Chinese authorities concerning ‘Apple ID loan’ scams emphasize the criticality of preserving digital identities and underline the severe risks associated with digital identity theft. Individuals, particularly those utilizing iPhones, must exercise caution with their personal details and implement preemptive measures to shield themselves from the perils of online fraud.

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  • OnePlus Ace 3V Unveils Key Specifications: 1.5K Display, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, and Beyond

    OnePlus Ace 3V Unveils Key Specifications: 1.5K Display, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, and Beyond

    OnePlus Ace 3V: Rumored Specifications and Release Strategy

    OnePlus, the popular Chinese smartphone brand, is known for its Ace series of smartphones. Last year, OnePlus launched three Ace-branded smartphones in China. The Ace 2 made its debut in February, followed by the Ace 2V in March. In the second half of the year, the Ace 2 Pro was introduced. It seems that OnePlus will continue with a similar release strategy for the Ace 3 series this year.

    OnePlus has already launched the OnePlus Ace 3 earlier this month in China. This device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. Moving forward, the brand is expected to release two more models in the Ace 3 series – the Ace 3V and the Ace 3 Pro. The Ace 3V is likely to arrive in the first half of the year, while the Ace 3 Pro may be launched in the second half.

    OnePlus Ace 3V: Leaked Specifications

    A recent leak on Weibo has provided some key specifications of the OnePlus Ace 3V. According to a Chinese leaker, this device will feature an OLED screen with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it will be powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset.

    The OnePlus Ace 3V is expected to come with a 5,500mAh battery that supports 100W fast charging. The device will have a plastic frame and a glass back. It is speculated that there might be both flat and curved-edge screen variants of the device.

    Missing Information and Global Release

    Unfortunately, the leak does not provide any details regarding the camera, storage, or RAM of the OnePlus Ace 3V. We will have to wait for further reports to know these specifications.

    It is worth noting that last year, the Ace 2V was exclusive to the Chinese market. However, it was later rebranded as the OnePlus Nord 3 for the global market. Therefore, there is a possibility that the Ace 3V may be repackaged as the OnePlus Nord 4 or Nord 5 when it is launched globally.

    As of now, these specifications and details are based on leaks and rumors. OnePlus has not officially confirmed any information regarding the Ace 3V. Therefore, it is advisable to take this information with a grain of salt until OnePlus makes an official announcement.

    In conclusion, OnePlus fans can expect the release of the OnePlus Ace 3V in the near future, with its rumored OLED display, powerful Snapdragon chipset, and fast charging capabilities. Stay tuned for more updates on this upcoming smartphone from OnePlus.

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  • Transferring eSIM Profiles between Android Devices is Now Possible

    Transferring eSIM Profiles between Android Devices is Now Possible

    The gradual shift from physical SIM cards to eSIMs is gaining momentum as more and more devices integrate this technology. eSIMs offer potential security advantages as they are embedded directly into the device. However, transferring eSIM profiles between devices can still be a hassle, often requiring carrier assistance or the use of new SIMs. To address this issue, Google announced a solution at last year’s Mobile World Congress—a new eSIM transfer tool for Android.

    The purpose of this tool is to allow users to securely and quickly move their mobile plans to new devices without the need for physical SIM cards. While Google did not provide specific details or a launch date, users setting up their Pixel 8 devices noticed the practical implementation of this tool as early as October last year. It appears that the tool is now becoming more widely available.

    Recently, a user setting up their brand-new Galaxy S24 Ultra using Samsung’s SIM transfer tool encountered a new eSIM transfer option during the setup process. This user reported that a pop-up appeared on their nearby LG V60 ThinQ, allowing them to transfer their SIM to the Galaxy S24 Ultra by simply scanning a QR code.

    Samsung had previously introduced its own eSIM transfer tool within One UI 5.1, but it was limited to Galaxy devices only. However, this recent development suggests that the eSIM transfer feature for Android is expanding its compatibility across different brands and models in the future.

    While there have been no reports of other brands adopting this feature yet, it is not surprising that Samsung is among the first to do so. Samsung and Google have been building a strong partnership recently, which likely contributed to this collaboration.

    It is important to note that, currently, T-Mobile is the only carrier confirmed to support this eSIM transfer functionality in the US. Although there is growing interest in this feature, indicating that other carriers may adopt it in the future, it is still too early to confirm this definitively.

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  • TUV Certification Granted to Tecno Camon 30 Premier

    TUV Certification Granted to Tecno Camon 30 Premier

    Tecno is rumored to be preparing for the launch of its latest smartphone, the Camon 30 Premier, which is expected to be the successor to the Camon 20 Premier released last summer. The upcoming device has already been spotted on various certification platforms including EEC, Bluetooth SIG, and Geekbench. The latest information comes from the TUV certification website.

    According to the TUV certification, the Camon 30 Premier will feature a substantial 4900 mAh battery and will support charging via a USB-C port. However, details regarding the charging speed have not been disclosed in the certification. Apart from this, there is not much information available from the TUV certification at the moment.

    Previous certification data suggests that the Camon 30 Premier will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 processor and will be paired with 12GB of RAM. It is possible that Tecno may offer different RAM configurations at the time of the launch.

    The Geekbench listing of the device reveals that it scored 529 points in the single-core test and 1355 points in the multi-core test. The phone was running on Android 13 OS during the Geekbench test, but it is likely that Tecno will launch the device with Android 14 out of the box. This assumption is based on the fact that the Camon 20 Premier became the first non-Pixel smartphone to receive an Android 14 OS update in October. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect that its successor will come with the latest operating system pre-installed.

    In addition, the Camon 30 Premier will come with Bluetooth 5.3 support for connectivity, as confirmed by the Bluetooth SIG certification.

    While Tecno has not yet announced an official launch date for the Camon 30 Premier, these certifications indicate that the release of the device may be imminent. More information regarding its complete specifications and launch timeline is expected to be revealed in the near future.

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  • Apple Confirms Sideloading Feature Restricted to iPhone, iPad Misses Out

    Apple Confirms Sideloading Feature Restricted to iPhone, iPad Misses Out

    iOS 17.4 Beta Brings Sideloading to EU iPhones, Excluding iPads

    Apple has rolled out the iOS 17.4 beta, which brings a significant change in compliance with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). This update introduces the option of sideloading for EU users, enabling them to download and install applications from sources other than the official App Store. However, it is important to note that this feature is currently limited to iPhones only, and iPad users are excluded from this new flexibility.

    Sideloading: Exploring the New Possibilities

    Sideloading is a process that allows users to bypass the official App Store and directly download and install applications from alternative sources. With the iOS 17.4 beta, EU iPhone users gain the ability to explore a wider range of apps and discover new possibilities outside the confines of the App Store.

    The European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA)

    The European Union’s Digital Markets Act is legislation aimed at promoting fair competition and consumer choice within the digital market. As part of its compliance with this act, Apple has introduced the option of sideloading in its latest iOS 17.4 beta release. This move is in line with the EU’s objective of fostering a more open and competitive environment for app distribution.

    iPad Users Left Out

    While EU iPhone users can now enjoy the benefits of sideloading, iPad users are currently excluded from this new feature. Apple has not provided any specific reasons for this limitation. It is unclear whether sideloading will be extended to iPads in future updates or if this exclusion will remain permanent.

    Pricing and Specifications

    The iOS 17.4 beta update is available for free to all eligible EU iPhone users. The sideloading feature, however, is exclusively accessible to iPhone users and does not extend to iPads.

    In conclusion, Apple’s iOS 17.4 beta release brings the option of sideloading to EU iPhone users, aligning with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. While this introduces new possibilities for iPhone users, iPad users are currently not included in this feature. It remains to be seen whether sideloading will be extended to iPads in future updates.

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  • More Upcoming Smartphones: Realme 12 Pro, Tecno Spark 20, and Beyond

    More Upcoming Smartphones: Realme 12 Pro, Tecno Spark 20, and Beyond

    Upcoming Smartphones Next Week

    The first month of 2024 is about to end, but the smartphone releases show no signs of slowing down. In the last week of January, several brands are expected to introduce new phones, including Realme and Tecno.

    Realme’s Latest Numbers Series

    Realme has confirmed that it will unveil its latest numbers series for global markets. This new lineup of handsets will be competing with the Redmi Note 13 lineup. While specific details about the devices are yet to be revealed, fans can expect Realme to continue its tradition of offering feature-packed smartphones at competitive prices.

    Tecno’s Budget Smartphone for India

    Meanwhile, Tecno is set to launch a budget smartphone in India. As one of the leading brands in the Indian market, Tecno aims to cater to the needs of budget-conscious consumers who are looking for affordable yet reliable smartphones. While the specifications and pricing of this upcoming device have not been disclosed, Tecno’s reputation for delivering value for money suggests that it will be an attractive option for those on a tight budget.

    With these upcoming releases, smartphone enthusiasts have something to look forward to in the last week of January. Stay tuned for more updates on the specifications, pricing, and availability of these new handsets.

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  • DxOMark’s battery test reveals Fairphone 5’s camera use drains battery within two hours

    DxOMark’s battery test reveals Fairphone 5’s camera use drains battery within two hours

    The Fairphone 5: A Smartphone with a Weak Battery

    The Fairphone 5 smartphone stands out with its easily replaceable 4,200mAh battery. However, the battery’s performance has been a major drawback for this model. In the DxOMark battery analysis, the Fairphone 5 failed to impress, revealing that the battery is the weak link of the device. During a two-hour camera usage test, the battery drained completely, emphasizing its limitations.

    A Disappointing Battery Performance

    Previous reviews have already pointed out the inferiority of the Fairphone 5’s battery. The DxOMark battery analysis awarded the mid-range smartphone a score of 83 points, placing it in a disappointing 165th position, just above five other smartphones. The analysis revealed that the smartphone’s Qualcomm QCM6490 processor, based on Snapdragon 778G, is inefficient when it comes to power optimization. While the battery lasts only two hours when using the camera, it can manage approximately 5.5 hours of gaming.

    Battery Life Under Different Usage Scenarios

    The Fairphone 5 does show some improvement in battery life under light loads, such as making calls and streaming music. However, the battery analysis indicates that when using social media apps, the battery life is reduced to around 5 hours. Additionally, GPS navigation further decreases the battery life to four hours. Under medium usage, the Fairphone 5 can last a day. The smartphone can be recharged through USB-C with a maximum output of 30W. However, it takes under 2.5 hours for a full charge, which is considered underwhelming compared to the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G, which can be fully recharged in just 1.67 hours (100 minutes).

    Decent Performance Despite Battery Limitations

    Despite the Fairphone 5’s limited battery life under heavy usage, it still offers decent overall performance. It is a sustainable smartphone that comes with a 5-year warranty and 8 years of software updates. The Fairphone 5 also boasts more recycled elements, a higher degree of modularity, and fairer trade practices compared to its predecessor, the Fairphone 4. These sustainability credentials could significantly drive demand for the product, even with the highlighted poor battery life.

    Conclusion

    The Fairphone 5 may have a weak battery, but it compensates for this limitation with its sustainable features and longevity. While the battery performance may disappoint some users, those who prioritize eco-friendly practices and long-term software support may still find the Fairphone 5 to be a worthwhile investment.

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  • 2a Charging Speed Certification Revealed for Nothing Phone Bags TUV

    2a Charging Speed Certification Revealed for Nothing Phone Bags TUV

    Nothing Phone (2a) Spotted on Certification Website

    The highly anticipated smartphone from Nothing, rumored to be the Nothing Phone (2a), has made an appearance on a certification website. This latest development has further fueled the excitement surrounding the upcoming device. Nothing's founder, Carl Pei, has been dropping cryptic teasers, adding to the anticipation. The company has already confirmed its presence at the upcoming MWC event in Barcelona, where it is expected to unveil its next product.

    TUV Certification Reveals Charging Speed

    The Nothing Phone (2a) has recently obtained the TUV certification with the model number A142. The certification listing discloses that the device will support 45W wired charging speed, which is the same as its predecessor, the Nothing Phone (2). While the certification does not provide any additional details about the smartphone, it is worth noting that the device has also received BIS and TDRA certifications, suggesting an imminent launch.

    Leaked Prototype Image Reveals Camera Setup

    According to a leaked prototype image, the Nothing Phone (2a) will feature a circular camera module housing two camera sensors, with a 50MP primary lens taking the spotlight. The camera island will be surrounded by Glyph LED light strips, adding a unique touch to the design. In terms of display, the upcoming device is expected to boast a 6.7-inch AMOLED screen with an FHD+ resolution, providing users with a stunning visual experience.

    Expected Specifications and Pricing

    Rumors suggest that the Nothing Phone (2a) will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 SoC. It is expected to come in two RAM and storage configurations: 8GB RAM with 128GB storage and 12GB RAM with 256GB storage. The smartphone will be available in White or Black color options. As for the pricing, the base model is rumored to have a sub-EUR 400 price tag, making it an attractive choice for consumers looking for a budget-friendly option.

    With the Nothing Phone (2a) making its way through various certifications and leaks, the excitement for its official launch continues to grow. Fans and tech enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting more details about the device, which is expected to offer impressive features and specifications at an affordable price point. As the MWC event approaches, all eyes will be on Nothing as they unveil their latest creation.

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  • Realme 12 and 12+ devices draw near to release, identified on Indian certification platform

    Realme 12 and 12+ devices draw near to release, identified on Indian certification platform

    The Realme 12 and 12+ smartphones have recently been spotted on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification platform, suggesting that their launch in the Indian market is imminent. While the Realme 12 Pro series is scheduled to be launched on January 29, 2024, the non-pro models are expected to follow soon after.

    BIS certification confirms arrival

    Both the Realme 12+ (model number RMX3867) and Realme 12 (model number RMX3868) received BIS certification on January 24, 2024. This certification confirms their official entry into the Indian market, although the exact launch date is yet to be announced.

    Design details revealed by FCC

    The Realme 12+ has also received clearance from the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which has revealed some interesting design details and features. According to the FCC documents, the Realme 12+ will have a similar look to the Realme 12 Pro, with dimensions of approximately 162.9 mm by 75.5 mm. The phone is expected to feature a round camera setup on the back, possibly with three cameras, including a periscope telephoto lens.

    Battery and software details

    The Realme 12+ is said to be equipped with a 5000 mAh Li-ion polymer battery (technically 4880 mAh). Additionally, it is expected to come with Realme UI 5.0, which is likely to be based on Android 14.

    Certifications from various authorities

    In addition to the BIS and FCC certifications, the Realme 12+ has also received certifications from other global authorities, including MIIT, TDRA, NBTC, SIRIM, and SDPPI.

    Launch of non-pro models

    As previously announced, the Realme 12 Pro and 12 Pro+ are set to be launched on January 29, 2024. With the BIS certification and leaked specifications of the non-pro models, it is reasonable to expect their launch to follow shortly after.

    Based on the BIS certification and FCC documents, the Realme 12+ is expected to offer exciting features and design elements. The official launch date for both the Realme 12+ and Realme 12 is yet to be announced, but their arrival in the Indian market is now confirmed. With the launch of the Realme 12 Pro series just around the corner, fans can look forward to the release of the non-pro models in the near future. Stay tuned for more updates on these upcoming smartphones.

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