Category: Phones

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  • Honor Magic V6 Foldable Launch: Fast Charging & Major Upgrades

    Honor Magic V6 Foldable Launch: Fast Charging & Major Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Honor will launch the Magic V6 foldable on March 1, 2026, a day before MWC 2026 in Barcelona.
    2. The Magic V6 will support 120 W wired charging, significantly faster than the Magic V5’s 67 W.
    3. There will be two models of the Magic V6, identified as PNM-AN10 and PNM-AN20, with the latter supporting Beidou satellite messaging.
    4. The Magic V6 is expected to feature a 7,150 mAh battery, with more affordable versions possibly having a 6,850 mAh battery.
    5. All variants will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.


    Honor has officially announced that its Magic V6 foldable will be launched next month during MWC 2026. To give some context, MWC 2026 will take place from March 2 to March 6 in Barcelona. However, Honor plans to introduce the Magic V6 a day earlier, on March 1.

    Charging Capabilities

    A recent leak has revealed another way Honor aims to set the Magic V6 apart from the current Magic V5, which is priced at $1,620 on Amazon. The CCC has now verified that the Magic V6 will support 120 W wired charging. Since the Magic V5 has a maximum wired charging speed of 67 W, this indicates that the Magic V6 will charge much quicker than its predecessor.

    Model Variants

    Furthermore, this faster charging will also apply when comparing the Magic V6 to other current foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold7, Pixel 10 Pro Fold, and Find N5. Additionally, the CCC supports earlier reports that Honor will offer the Magic V6 in two different models. Labeled as PNM-AN10 and PNM-AN20 by the certification agency, these versions are only expected to differ in that the latter will include support for Beidou satellite messaging.

    Battery Specifications

    At the moment, it is believed that Honor will equip the Magic V6 with a powerful 7,150 mAh battery to go along with this 120 W wired charging. However, more affordable versions might come with a smaller battery, closer to 6,850 mAh. Nevertheless, all variants of the Magic V6 should be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Will Not Have Built-In Magnets

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Will Not Have Built-In Magnets

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 Series may include MagSafe-like accessories, but no integrated magnets will be in the phone itself.
    2. Users will need to buy special cases for magnetic connections, unlike competitors like the Google Pixel 10 that have built-in magnets.
    3. The Galaxy S26 is expected to support the Qi2 wireless charging standard.
    4. New accessories, including magnetic cases, power banks, and chargers, will be launched to provide magnetic features.
    5. The Galaxy S26 Ultra will support wireless charging at 25W, while standard models may be limited to 20W, with full details revealed on February 25.


    Early talks hinted that the Galaxy S26 Series might finally include MagSafe-like accessories such as power banks and chargers. However, the uncertainty remained about whether Samsung would embed magnets into the phone itself or depend on cases to achieve that magnetic connection.

    No Integrated Magnets

    Now, reliable leaker Ice Universe has stated that the flagship device won’t feature magnets built into its body. If this information is accurate, users of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will still need to purchase a special case to enjoy the quick magnetic connection that is available on competing devices.

    Qi2 Wireless Charging

    While the phone is likely to support the Qi2 wireless charging standard, not having internal magnets distinguishes it from rivals like the Google Pixel 10. The Pixel 10 series comes with built-in magnets for a smooth experience right from the start. Instead of changing the hardware, Samsung seems to be addressing this gap with a new range of official accessories.

    Upcoming Accessories

    Leaks have disclosed several products that will be launched to provide this magnetic feature, which includes magnetic cases, power banks, and chargers. Users will essentially have to get one of these cases to fully utilize the magnetic ecosystem. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to support wireless charging at 25W, whereas the standard models may be limited to 20W. We will probably not know the full details until the Galaxy S26 series is officially revealed on February 25.

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  • Exynos 2600 GPU Benchmark Shows Edge Over Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

    Exynos 2600 GPU Benchmark Shows Edge Over Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 series will feature the Exynos 2600 SoC, with at least two models powered by this chip.
    2. The Exynos 2600’s Xclipse 960 GPU shows strong performance in benchmarks, competing closely with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
    3. The Galaxy S26 achieved a score of 8,262 points in the Basemark’s In Vitro benchmark, showcasing its ray tracing capabilities.
    4. The Xclipse 960 GPU is approximately 10% faster than the Adreno 840, but actual performance may vary in real-world scenarios.
    5. The Exynos 2600 is expected to offer comparable CPU performance to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, with hopes that the Xclipse 960 maintains its GPU performance.


    With the upcoming launch of the Galaxy S26 series, more details have emerged regarding the Exynos 2600 SoC that will power at least two of the three models. A prior listing on Geekbench suggested that this chip could compete closely with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in terms of GPU performance. Now, we have another look at the Exynos 2600’s Xclipse 960 GPU, this time through a lesser-known benchmark test.

    Benchmark Insights

    The Basemark’s In Vitro benchmark evaluates the ray tracing capabilities of mobile GPUs. According to the results, the base model of the Galaxy S26 achieved a score of 8,262 points, confirmed by its model number (SM-S942B). This listing verifies that it operates on the S5E9965 board with the Xclipse 960 GPU. Notably, the only device that surpasses the Galaxy S26 in performance is another Exynos 2600, but it is tested on a board rather than a commercial smartphone. Unfortunately, the information does not disclose any specific details, but earlier Geekbench results indicate it will feature 4 WGP/8 CUs.

    Performance Comparisons

    When it comes to performance, the Xclipse 960 claims to be around 10% faster than the Adreno 840 GPU found in the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. However, the Powerboard benchmark suite has a history of favoring Exynos GPUs over their Snapdragon counterparts, which means the actual performance difference in real-world scenarios might be smaller. Regarding the GPU’s architecture, one source mentions that the Xclipse 960 was designed by Samsung in-house, while another reports that it incorporates AMD’s RDNA 4 technology.

    Future Prospects

    An earlier Geekbench listing suggested that the Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 would offer comparable CPU performance. If this holds true for the final product, then all the Xclipse 960 needs to do is maintain its performance in the GPU area. This would help calm worries about Exynos chips, which have struggled in recent years to match the performance of similarly equipped options from Qualcomm and MediaTek.

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  • Galaxy SM-F971: Global Release Rumored for Samsung’s Foldable Phone

    Galaxy SM-F971: Global Release Rumored for Samsung’s Foldable Phone

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is testing multiple regional versions of the Galaxy Z Wide Fold with model numbers SM-F9710, SM-F971N, SM-F971U, SM-F971U1, and SM-F971W.
    2. The Galaxy Z Wide Fold is likely preparing for a global launch, although the name may change before release.
    3. The SM-F971 model designations indicate that the Galaxy Z Wide Fold is distinct from existing foldable models like the Galaxy Z TriFold and Galaxy Z Flip7.
    4. Samsung aims to launch the Galaxy Z Wide Fold in July 2026.
    5. The launch is timed to compete with Apple’s rumored iPhone Fold.


    Now, several regional versions of the Galaxy Z Wide Fold have been spotted in new IMEI database results. Samsung seems to be testing the models SM-F9710, SM-F971N, SM-F971U, SM-F971U1, and SM-F971W. Each of these model numbers appears to correspond to different regions, such as China, South Korea, the United States, Canada, and other parts of the world.

    Global Launch on the Horizon

    This indicates that the Galaxy Z Wide Fold is likely preparing for a worldwide release. It’s important to note that this name may not be the final one for the device. However, the SM-F971 designations suggest that it is not linked to existing foldable models like the Galaxy Z TriFold, Galaxy Z Flip7, Galaxy Z Flip7 FE, or the Galaxy Z Fold7 (currently priced at $1,249 for refurbished units on Amazon).

    Anticipated Release Timing

    At the moment, Samsung is thought to be aiming for a launch in July 2026 for the Galaxy Z Wide Fold, likely to beat Apple’s rumored iPhone Fold to the market.

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  • Vivo V70 Elite Leaks on Geekbench with Zeiss Cameras and Snapdragon 8

    Vivo V70 Elite Leaks on Geekbench with Zeiss Cameras and Snapdragon 8

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo V70 series will launch with two models: the standard V70 and the V70 Elite, focusing on mid-range camera capabilities.
    2. The V70 Elite features the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, marking the first use of a Snapdragon 8-series chip in the V series.
    3. Benchmark scores for the V70 Elite are 1,973 in single-core and 4,863 in multi-core tests, with 12GB of RAM and running on Android 16.
    4. The V70 Elite has a 6.59-inch OLED display with a 1.5K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, along with a Zeiss-tuned triple rear camera setup and a 50MP front camera.
    5. It is powered by a 6,500mAh battery with 90W wired charging and will be available in three colors: Passion Red, Sand Beige, and Authentic Black, expected to launch later this month.


    The Vivo V70 series is about to make its debut, featuring two models: the standard V70 and the V70 Elite. Vivo’s V series is known for its focus on the mid-range segment, especially highlighting camera capabilities. The new V70 Elite is notable as it will be the first in the V series to incorporate a Snapdragon 8-series processor. Recently, it has been spotted on Geekbench, showcasing its benchmark results.

    Benchmark Results

    According to @ZionsAnvin on X, the Geekbench listing for the Vivo V70 Elite carries the model number “V2548.” This device is equipped with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, a premium Qualcomm chip that debuted in 2024, and has powered devices like the Poco F6 and Motorola Edge 50 Ultra.

    The benchmark scores indicate performance levels of 1,973 in single-core and 4,863 in multi-core tests. Additionally, the listing confirms that the device will include 12GB of RAM and run on Android 16.

    Display and Camera Features

    The official webpage for the V70 Elite reveals that it sports a 6.59-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1.5K and a refresh rate of 120Hz. The phone boasts a Zeiss-tuned triple rear camera setup that features a 50MP primary sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens, and an unnamed ultrawide camera. Moreover, it is equipped with a 50MP front-facing camera.

    The Vivo V70 Elite is powered by a substantial 6,500mAh battery and supports 90W wired charging (with a 10K Iniu powerbank currently priced at $20 on Amazon). It will be available in three colors: Passion Red, Sand Beige, and Authentic Black. While the exact launch date remains undisclosed, the phone is anticipated to be released later this month.

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  • Redmi Turbo 5 Max Launches New Higher Storage Variant

    Redmi Turbo 5 Max Launches New Higher Storage Variant

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Variant Release: Xiaomi introduced a fifth configuration of the Redmi Turbo 5 Max, powered by the Dimensity 9500s chip.

    2. Storage Upgrade: The new model features 16GB of RAM and offers 1TB of storage, priced at CNY 3,399 (approximately $490 or €415).

    3. Unchanged Key Specs: All other specifications remain the same, including a 6.83-inch AMOLED display, 50MP main camera, and 9,000mAh battery.

    4. Limited Stock: The 1TB version is in limited stock due to its higher price point.

    5. Exclusive Colors: The 1TB version is available in two limited edition colors: Sunshine Orange and Cloud White.


    It’s been just a week since Xiaomi unveiled the Redmi Turbo 5 Max, and now they have introduced a new version of the smartphone that runs on the Dimensity 9500s chip.

    New Configuration Released

    Initially, the Redmi Turbo 5 Max came in four different setups: a base model featuring 12GB of RAM and 256GB storage, another with 12GB of RAM and 512GB, a 16GB RAM version with 256GB storage, and the last one holding 16GB of RAM and 512GB. Xiaomi has now rolled out a fifth configuration.

    Impressive Storage Upgrade

    This new Redmi Turbo 5 Max variant also has 16GB of RAM, similar to the previously mentioned models, but now offers a whopping 1TB of storage. The price for this version is CNY 3,399 (about $490 or €415) and it’s already up for grabs in China. ITHome reported that a Xiaomi representative mentioned that the 1TB model is available in limited stock due to its high price.

    Key Specs Remain Unchanged

    Aside from the storage increase, all other specifications remain unchanged from the other versions. The Redmi Turbo 5 Max features a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2772 × 1280 and a 120Hz refresh rate. The display can achieve a peak brightness of 3,500 nits and supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+. It also has a centered punch-hole, housing a 20MP front-facing camera.

    On the rear, it has a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) and an 8MP ultra-wide camera. Inside, it includes LPDDR5X RAM, UFS 4.1 storage, and a massive 9,000mAh battery that supports 100W fast charging. The Redmi Turbo 5 Max also boasts an IP69K rating, an infrared blaster, NFC, dual SIM functionality, Bluetooth 5.4, and Wi-Fi 6. It comes with HyperOS 3, which is based on Android 16.

    Limited Edition Colors Available

    According to the promotional materials, the 1TB version of the Redmi Turbo 5 Max is exclusively offered in the Sunshine Orange and Cloud White color options.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Leaks: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Beats A19 Pro

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Leaks: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Beats A19 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S26 Ultra features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, with Geekbench scores of 3,601 (single-core) and 10,686 (multi-core).
    2. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is approximately 16% faster in single-core and 7.5% faster in multi-core tests compared to its predecessor.
    3. In direct comparison, Apple’s A19 Pro is about 7% faster in single-core tests, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is 6% faster in multi-core tests.
    4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is slightly overclocked, reaching a boost frequency of 4.74 GHz, which is higher than the official max of 4.60 GHz.
    5. Samsung continues to use the “For Galaxy” version of its Snapdragon chipsets, following the trend set with the Galaxy S23 series.


    The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is on the horizon, and that means we are seeing more leaks about the Galaxy S26, especially the Ultra version, which is the most awaited model. We have previously revealed many details regarding its design, display, colors, and camera specs. Now, we have some Geekbench scores to discuss.

    Geekbench Performance Results

    The recent Geekbench scores for the Galaxy S26 Ultra show that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset achieved a score of 3,601 for single-core and 10,686 for multi-core tests. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is said to be combined with 12 GB of VRAM, operating at a base clock speed of 3.63 GHz and a peak clock speed of 4.74 GHz on two cores.

    Speed Comparison

    Our evaluation indicates that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in the Galaxy S26 Ultra is approximately 16% quicker in single-core and 7.5% faster in multi-core Geekbench 6 tests compared to its predecessor. When we pit the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 against Apple’s A19 Pro, it turns out that the A19 Pro is about 7% faster in single-core testing, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 edges ahead by 6% in the multi-core tests.

    Overclocked Snapdragons

    The new Geekbench listing for the Galaxy S26 Ultra appears to verify that Samsung will continue its trend of using a slightly overclocked Snapdragon SoC. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 has a max boost clock officially set at 4.60 GHz, but in this case, it boasts a reported boost frequency of 4.74 GHz, achieving a 3% advantage.

    Samsung has been following this approach since the introduction of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy in the Galaxy S23 series. Consequently, it looks like the Galaxy S26 series will also include the “For Galaxy” version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

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  • Vivo Launches iQOO 15 Ultra: Gaming Phone with LED Strips & 50MP Cameras

    Vivo Launches iQOO 15 Ultra: Gaming Phone with LED Strips & 50MP Cameras

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo iQOO 15 Ultra features an eye-catching design with a honeycomb pattern and a square camera bump with an RGB LED strip for notifications.
    2. It is IP69 certified for waterproofing and includes a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor with an active cooling fan for enhanced gaming performance.
    3. The smartphone has a 6.85-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 3168 x 1440 pixels, a 144Hz refresh rate, and peak HDR brightness of 8,000 nits.
    4. The camera setup includes three 50MP cameras (main, ultra-wide, and telephoto) and a 32MP selfie camera, along with an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.
    5. Pricing starts at around $820 for the base model with 16GB RAM and 256GB storage, while the premium version with 24GB RAM and 1TB storage is priced at $1,110.


    The Vivo iQOO 15 Ultra is set to come with improved specifications compared to its predecessor, the iQOO 15. The design of this new flagship is eye-catching, featuring a honeycomb pattern on the back, and it’s available in either white or black. Notably, the square camera bump includes an RGB LED strip that can alert users to incoming notifications.

    Design and Durability

    Measuring 0.34 inches in thickness and weighing 8 ounces, this device is also IP69 certified, meaning it is waterproof. Vivo has chosen the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, which is also present in the less expensive iQOO 15. However, the Ultra model benefits from an active cooling fan, which should enhance its gaming performance. Additionally, it includes two touch-sensitive shoulder buttons, allowing for a more immersive experience with complex mobile games.

    Display and Battery

    The smartphone features a 6.85-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 3168 x 1440 pixels, a refresh rate of 144Hz, and an impressive peak HDR brightness of 8,000 nits, while full-screen brightness reaches 2,600 nits. The battery capacity stands at 7,400mAh, with charging capabilities through USB-C at 100 watts and wireless charging at 40 watts. Unlike many other gaming-focused flagships, such as the RedMagic 11 Pro, the iQOO 15 Ultra does not compromise much on its camera features.

    Camera Features and Pricing

    For the camera setup, Vivo has chosen a 50MP f/1.9 main camera with a 1/1.56-inch sensor, a 50MP f/2.05 ultra-wide-angle camera with a 1/2.76-inch sensor, and a 50MP f/2.65 telephoto camera featuring a 1/1.95-inch sensor with 3x optical zoom. There’s also a 32MP f/2.2 selfie camera located in a centered punch-hole. The ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is built into the display for ease of access.

    The Vivo iQOO 15 Ultra will first be released in China, where the entry-level model with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage is priced at around $820. The premium version, which comes with 24GB RAM and 1TB of storage, is set at $1,110. Vivo has not yet announced if or when the phone will be available globally.

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  • Google Pixel 10a: Official Release Date for New Mid-Range Smartphone

    Google Pixel 10a: Official Release Date for New Mid-Range Smartphone

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has revealed a sneak peek of the Pixel 10a through a 15-second video on social media.
    2. The Pixel 10a features a fully flat rear camera design, differing from the Pixel 9a’s slight bump.
    3. The dual-camera system from the Pixel 9a will return in the Pixel 10a.
    4. The Pixel 10a will be available in a darker color compared to the Iris color of the Pixel 9a.
    5. Pre-orders for the Pixel 10a will start on February 18, with more information expected soon.


    Google has recently given a sneak peek at the Pixel 10a, shortly after Evan Blass shared a detailed leak about the device on X. Up until now, the company has only shown a brief preview of its upcoming mid-range phone. They released a short 15-second video on their social media platforms, which we have included below.

    Design Changes

    At this point, Google hasn’t shared any specific technical information regarding the successor to the Pixel 9a. However, we can make some assumptions about how Google aims to set the Pixel 10a apart from its earlier model, which is currently priced at $399 on Amazon. For example, the new mid-range phone features a fully flat rear camera design, unlike the slight bump that was seen with the Pixel 9a.

    Camera and Color Variations

    That said, the dual-camera system from last year’s version makes a return. The video also suggests that the Pixel 10a will come in a darker shade compared to the Iris color that is available for the Pixel 9a. Google plans to start pre-orders for the Pixel 10a on February 18. Meanwhile, the tagline ‘a phone with more in store, in store soon’ hints that the company will disclose more information about the device in the next couple of weeks. Check out the video below for additional insights.

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  • TCL Unveils Affordable Smartphones with Helio G100 and Big Displays

    TCL Unveils Affordable Smartphones with Helio G100 and Big Displays

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TCL K70 and K70 Power smartphones feature a 6.8-inch LCD display with a resolution of 1570 x 720p and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    2. The K70 Power is powered by a MediaTek Helio G100 Turbo chipset, offers up to 8 GB of RAM, and has a 6,500 mAh battery with 33 W wired charging.
    3. The K70 Power includes a 50 MP dual rear camera setup and an 8 MP front camera, along with an IP64 rating for splash resistance.
    4. The K70 model has 4 GB of RAM, 128 GB of storage, and a 5,200 mAh battery, priced at €135.50, while the K70 Power is priced at €174.50 for the 4 GB + 256 GB version.
    5. Both smartphones are available for purchase on Lazada in Thailand in nebula blue and space gray colors.


    TCL has quietly launched the K70 and K70 Power smartphones in the global market. These two devices are 4G smartphones and they have some common features in design, display, and processor. More specifically, both models come with a large 6.8-inch LCD screen that has a resolution of 1570 x 720p and a refresh rate of 120 Hz.

    Specifications of K70 Power

    The TCL K70 Power runs on a MediaTek Helio G100 Turbo chipset along with up to 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage. It also has a larger battery compared to the K70, featuring a 6,500 mAh capacity and supports 33 W wired charging. The company asserts that this device can last up to 3 days on a single charge, which is quite impressive.

    Camera Features

    When it comes to photography, the K70 Power includes a dual rear camera arrangement with a 50 MP primary camera and an additional lens that remains unspecified. For selfies and video calls, there is an 8 MP front-facing camera. It also has an IP64 rating for splash resistance. Other notable features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers with DTS support, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, and 4G connectivity.

    Pricing and Availability

    In contrast, the TCL K70 is equipped with 4 GB of RAM, offers up to 128 GB of internal storage, and has a 5,200 mAh battery. In terms of pricing, the K70 is listed at €135.50, while the K70 Power is available for €174.50 for the 4 GB + 256 GB version. Both devices can be bought now through Lazada in Thailand. Buyers can opt for either nebula blue or space gray color choices.

    Lazada, GSMArena

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