Category: Phones

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  • Upgraded Anker MagGo Power Bank Coming Soon

    Upgraded Anker MagGo Power Bank Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new version of the Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) is expected, featuring improved Qi 2.1 technology for better magnetic functionality.
    2. The power bank can charge one or two devices at once, with a wireless charging pad offering up to 15W and a USB-C port providing up to 27W.
    3. It can charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max to 49% in just 30 minutes using the USB-C port, which also recharges the power bank at 20W.
    4. The design of the new power bank is similar to the original, with minor changes, but additional features are still uncertain.
    5. The original Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) is priced at $89.99, currently available for $71.99 on Amazon.


    A new iteration of the Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) seems to be on the horizon. This gadget first hit the market in early 2024, coming out together with the smaller MagGo Power Bank (6.6K) version.

    New Technology Insights

    Recently, the Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K), also known as model A1654, has shown up once again in the Wireless Power Consortium database. This indication hints that a second version of the power bank is in the works, boasting Qi 2.1 technology instead of Qi 2.0. This improved magnetic functionality could lead to advantages like less device misalignment, decreased heat output, and more effective power transfer.

    Charging Capabilities

    The Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) is capable of charging either one or two devices simultaneously. The front features a Qi2 certified wireless charging pad that can deliver up to 15W of power to the connected smartphone. On one side, there’s a USB-C port that provides an output of up to 27W; as stated by Anker, this could charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max to 49% in just 30 minutes. This USB-C port is also utilized for recharging the power bank itself at a rate of 20W. Additional features include a built-in kickstand and ActiveShield technology, which helps to avoid overheating.

    Future Features and Pricing

    It remains uncertain whether this upgraded version of the Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) will include any other new features. Nevertheless, its design appears nearly the same as its earlier model, with small adjustments such as the absence of the “Wireless PowerIQ” text. As for the release date of this new product, no details have been provided. The original version is priced at $89.99 in the United States, but it can be found for $71.99 on Amazon at present.

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  • Xiaomi 17 Leak: Early Global Release for Compact Flagship

    Xiaomi 17 Leak: Early Global Release for Compact Flagship

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra are expected to launch globally before MWC in Barcelona.
    2. The Xiaomi 17 was recently seen on a German retailer’s website, indicating a near release.
    3. The Leica Leitzphone, powered by Xiaomi, will be available globally by February 28.
    4. An Indian launch for the Xiaomi 17 is expected in early March.
    5. The Xiaomi 17 Pro and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max will not have global releases.


    Leaker Yogesh Brar has shared insights regarding Xiaomi’s plans for the worldwide release of the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra. For some background, the Xiaomi 17 made its debut in China last September, along with the Xiaomi 17 Pro and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra has been on sale in China since late September.

    Global Launch Expectations

    Previously, it was thought that the international versions of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and its smaller counterpart would launch during MWC in Barcelona, similar to how the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 were released (currently priced at $822 on Amazon). However, recent information suggests that the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra might be released sooner than anticipated. For example, the Xiaomi 17 was spotted on a German retailer’s website last week.

    Future Releases

    Brar noted that Xiaomi plans to unveil both flagship models ‘before MWC’. They haven’t mentioned an exact release date, but they did state that the Leica Leitzphone, which is powered by Xiaomi, will be globally available by February 28. It remains unclear if all three smartphones will launch at the same time. Reports indicate that an Indian launch is expected ‘in early March’. However, neither the Xiaomi 17 Pro nor the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max will have global releases.

    Yogesh Brar has been following these developments closely.

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  • Moto G17 Likely Won’t Get Android Updates Due to EU Rules

    Moto G17 Likely Won’t Get Android Updates Due to EU Rules

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Motorola Moto G17 features minimal upgrades over the Moto G15, with the main improvement being a 32 MP front camera.
    2. The device is powered by the older MediaTek Helio G81 Extreme and comes with Android 15 preloaded.
    3. Motorola UK offers only two years of security patches, with no promise of major Android updates for the Moto G17.
    4. Motorola’s update strategy falls short compared to competitors, such as Samsung and Xiaomi, which provide longer support durations.
    5. Under EU regulations, manufacturers are expected to offer at least five years of updates, but Motorola interprets these rules differently regarding major OS upgrades.


    Officially unveiled just a week ago, the mid-tier Motorola Moto G17 brings minimal improvements over its predecessor, the Moto G15 (around $130 on Amazon), except for a better 32 MP front camera. The device continues to utilize the older MediaTek Helio G81 Extreme and comes preloaded with Android 15, which debuted in summer 2024.

    Limited Update Commitment

    Motorola UK guarantees only two years of security patches, without any major Android updates promised. Similarly, the German product page for the phone lacks details on update commitments. Under EU regulations, manufacturers are expected to offer at least five years of updates from a device’s launch. In a conversation with media source After Dawn, Motorola clarified that, according to their understanding of the rules, while security and feature updates are mandatory, significant OS upgrades are not required. This implies that the Moto G17 will likely not receive an Android 16 update in Europe.

    Lagging Behind Competitors

    Though this update strategy may not breach any laws, Motorola is significantly trailing behind many of its rivals when it comes to software support. For example, the comparably priced Samsung Galaxy A17 (approximately $180 on Amazon) guarantees six Android updates. Even manufacturers from China usually provide much longer support durations. For instance, Xiaomi commits to four years of OS updates for its Redmi Note 15.

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  • Apple Developing iPhone Flip as Compact Alternative to iPhone Fold

    Apple Developing iPhone Flip as Compact Alternative to iPhone Fold

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple plans to launch a foldable iPhone, the iPhone Fold, in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 series.
    2. The iPhone Fold will be shorter and wider than the Galaxy Z Fold7 and will open like a traditional book.
    3. Apple is also working on a flip phone, the iPhone Flip, resembling the Motorola Razr Ultra, still in the conceptual stage.
    4. The success of the iPhone Fold will influence the future of Apple’s foldable devices, including the potential for more designs and lower prices.
    5. Apple is considering a larger model called the “iPhone Fold Max,” which would feature a 6.5-inch secondary display, but no final design or launch date is confirmed.


    Rumors have been buzzing for several months about Apple’s intention to launch a foldable iPhone in September 2026, coinciding with the iPhone 18 series. This new device is expected to be a bit shorter and wider than the Galaxy Z Fold7, but it will still open from left to right like a traditional book.

    Exciting Developments

    A recent report from Bloomberg indicates that Apple is also working on a flip phone that resembles the Motorola Razr Ultra, which starts at $1,022 on Amazon. This anticipated iPhone Flip is believed to have a nearly square shape when closed and an aspect ratio similar to that of the iPhone 17 Pro Max when it is opened. Yet, this compact foldable phone is still in the conceptual stage, with Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman mentioning that an actual release is not assured.

    Future Possibilities

    The choice to proceed with the flip phone is likely to depend on how well the iPhone Fold performs in the market. If it sells well, there may be a growing interest in foldable devices with different designs and possibly more affordable prices. Bloomberg also reports that Apple is contemplating a larger model, dubbed the “iPhone Fold Max,” which would expand the size of the secondary display from 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches. Similar to the flip version, Apple has not yet finalized its design or committed to a launch date. Nevertheless, it appears that Apple is serious about entering the foldable market, aiming to compete with companies like Samsung and Huawei in the future.

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  • Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leak: Global Price and Battery Details Revealed

    Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leak: Global Price and Battery Details Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 17 is priced at €1,099 in the Eurozone, matching the Xiaomi 15’s global price of $822.
    2. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be priced at €1,499 in the Eurozone, with a global release planned in Black, white, and green.
    3. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to have a 6,000 mAh battery for the global model, an 11% increase from the Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s global version.
    4. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s battery is smaller than the Chinese version’s 6,800 mAh battery.
    5. Compared to the Xiaomi 17, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will have a 330 mAh smaller battery, at 6,000 mAh compared to 6,330 mAh.


    Towards the end of the previous week, a German store has disclosed the pricing for the Xiaomi 17 in the Eurozone. The device is tagged at €1,099, featuring 512 GB of storage and 12 GB of RAM, which means its global price matches that of the Xiaomi 15 that was previously released (currently priced at $822 on Amazon). Arsène Lupin suggests that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will follow the same pricing trend.

    Pricing Details for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra

    In a post on X, Lupin has stated that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be available in the Eurozone for €1,499. This model comes with 512 GB of storage and 16 GB of RAM, matching the starting configuration of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. There are rumors of a 1 TB version with 16 GB of RAM as well, but no pricing details for this variant have been shared yet. Additionally, Lupin confirms that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be offered globally in Black, white, and green shades.

    Battery Specifications Revealed

    The same source has also disclosed battery specifications for the global edition of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. It is believed that Xiaomi has provided global models with a 6,000 mAh battery. This represents an approximate 11% increase compared to global models of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, yet it is around 12% smaller than the 6,800 mAh battery found in the Chinese version of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra.

    Comparison with the Xiaomi 17

    For the global launch, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will have a smaller battery compared to the Xiaomi 17 as well. Following the trend set by the Chinese versions, a battery capacity of 6,000 mAh would make the Xiaomi 17 Ultra 330 mAh and 5% less powerful than the 6,330 mAh battery that powers the Xiaomi 17 outside of China.

    Arsène Lupin

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  • iPhone 17 Pro Leads Early Sales; Top 3 Best-Selling Models Revealed

    iPhone 17 Pro Leads Early Sales; Top 3 Best-Selling Models Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Pro Max accounts for 27% of early sales in the iPhone 17 series, highlighting strong demand for Apple’s premium models.
    2. Together, the Pro models (iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max) make up 52% of total early sales, a significant increase from 39% in the iPhone 16 series.
    3. The standard iPhone 17 holds a 22% share, indicating it remains popular among general consumers.
    4. The iPhone Air has only captured 6% of early sales, suggesting challenges in marketing this fourth model effectively.
    5. Features like larger screens, better cameras, and longer battery life are more appealing to buyers than sleek design or mid-range options.


    New sales information released by Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) shows that customers are more and more choosing Apple’s top-tier iPhones, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max standing out as the most favored model in the series.

    Sales Breakdown

    As per the findings, the iPhone 17 Pro Max makes up 27% of the initial sales of the iPhone 17 series, with the iPhone 17 Pro not far behind at 25%. Together, the Pro models now account for 52% of total early sales, which is a significant rise from the iPhone 16 series, where both Pro and Pro Max models only represented 39% of the sales.

    In contrast, the standard iPhone 17 holds a 22% share, remaining a strong choice for general consumers. However, the report also reveals Apple’s ongoing difficulties in effectively marketing a fourth model. The iPhone Air, despite being highly publicized during its launch, only makes up 6% of early sales, falling short of the iPhone 16 Plus, which captured 8% in the same timeframe last year.

    Historical Context

    Looking back at the iPhone 16 series, the iPhone 16 Pro Max was the top seller with 23%, followed by the iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro, which both stood at 21% and 16%, respectively. The changes seen in the iPhone 17 series imply that buyers are increasingly willing to invest more for Apple’s premium models, even though the design and materials have sparked some discussions. However, as previously noted, the aluminium body and new vapor chamber technology in the iPhone 17 Pro series deliver enhanced thermal efficiency, particularly beneficial for gaming.

    The data suggest that features usually linked with the Pro lineup, such as bigger screens, advanced cameras, and longer battery life, continue to be more important for many buyers than factors like sleekness or mid-range positioning. At the same time, Apple’s efforts to introduce a high-end option below the Pro range seem to appeal to a much smaller segment of the market.

    Sales Trends

    While CIRP’s statistics show early sales instead of long-term trends, the pattern reflects a recurring theme Apple has observed over the past few generations: strong demand for Pro and Pro Max models, consistent interest in the standard iPhone, and variable success for other options placed in the middle.

    CIRP – Apple Report

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  • Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G: Premium Design, IP68, and Victus 2 Features

    Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G: Premium Design, IP68, and Victus 2 Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-End Display Features: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G boasts a 90% screen-to-body ratio, flat design, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, and IP68 water resistance.

    2. Impressive Screen Quality: It features an HDR-capable AMOLED display with brightness levels up to 3,000 nits and promises six years of security updates.

    3. Strong Battery Performance: The smartphone is equipped with a 6,580 mAh battery, lasting over 30 hours on Wi-Fi and more than 5 hours during gaming.

    4. Considerations Before Purchase: The device has a relatively weak SoC for intensive tasks, subpar Wi-Fi speed, and mediocre camera quality, along with ads in the operating system.

    5. User Experience Caution: Users sensitive to PWM frequency should test the display before buying, as it supports frequencies up to 3,840 Hz.


    At first sight, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G appears to be a high-end device. Even though this mid-range smartphone can be purchased for less than $400, its display bezels are so slim that they make many premium devices look inferior.

    Impressive Display Features

    We recorded a screen-to-body ratio of 90%, which is quite remarkable. The display is now flat, unlike the previous model, and it no longer curves at the edges. It is safeguarded by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, a feature usually reserved for costly flagship devices.

    Also included is IP68 water resistance, allowing users to take the smartphone for short dives in shallow waters. A unique mode activates to eliminate water from the speakers using high-frequency vibrations.

    Outstanding Screen Quality

    The display is quite remarkable: Who would anticipate an HDR-capable AMOLED screen with brightness levels reaching up to 3,000 nits in a mid-range smartphone? Our tests show that the device nearly achieves this brightness. Additionally, it promises six years of security updates, a fairly accurate fingerprint sensor, multiple cellular bands for global use, and precise location tracking.

    The battery life is also noteworthy, powered by a 6,580 mAh battery. We found that it lasts over 30 hours in practical Wi-Fi tests and more than 5 hours during gaming sessions.

    Considerations Before Purchase

    Before you decide to purchase this phone, it’s essential to consider some downsides of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G. For instance, Xiaomi has once more equipped this device with a relatively weak SoC. While it suffices for daily tasks, it doesn’t leave much room for more intensive activities.

    The Wi-Fi speed is also not up to par, the camera quality is mediocre at best, and several apps in Xiaomi’s operating system feature advertisements. Currently, the smartphone runs on Android 15. While the display allows for an increase in PWM frequency up to 3,840 Hz, sensitive users should try it out before making a purchase.

  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Leaked: First Official Promo Poster

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Leaked: First Official Promo Poster

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Galaxy S26 series, including the S26 Ultra, features a new unified camera module design with a three-tiered layout.
    2. The camera design has shifted from three distinct lenses to a more integrated look, with the 3x telephoto lens and other sensors repositioned.
    3. The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a slimmer profile at 7.9 mm and is 4 grams lighter than its predecessor, the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
    4. The overall housing design has rounder corners, moving away from the Galaxy Note style, while the S Pen remains a feature with a redesigned tip.
    5. The Galaxy S26 lineup is set to be officially announced on February 25, 2026, during a Galaxy Unpacked event.


    The first official images of the Samsung Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and Galaxy S26 Ultra leaked last Friday, creating a buzz. Recently, Evan Blass provided a more detailed view of the updated camera on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. While it still looks like a Samsung camera, there are some noticeable changes. The three distinct lenses with their bulky, questionable optical rings have been replaced. Instead, a unified camera module has returned, featuring a three-tiered design upon closer examination.

    Camera Design Changes

    The 3x telephoto lens and other sensors, including the LED flash, are again positioned to the right of the camera module. The overall housing design has also shifted, with the corners appearing significantly rounder, distancing itself from the Galaxy Note style. The S Pen remains a familiar feature, having endured another year, with its tip now redesigned to match the new rounded housing.

    Size and Weight Adjustments

    When comparing it to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, the Galaxy S26 Ultra has a slightly slimmer profile that should be noticeable. At 7.9 mm thick, it occupies 0.3 mm less space in a snug pocket, and at 214 grams, it is 4 grams lighter. Nevertheless, it is a tad larger in height and width and doesn’t seem to incorporate titanium as part of its build. A recent teaser poster leak suggests that the Galaxy S26 lineup will be officially announced on February 25, 2026, during a Galaxy Unpacked event.

     

  • OnePlus 16 Leak Shows Telephoto Camera Upgrade Details

    OnePlus 16 Leak Shows Telephoto Camera Upgrade Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OnePlus 15 has a smaller camera setup compared to its predecessor, lacking Hasselblad color tuning.
    2. The upcoming OnePlus 16 is expected to feature a significant upgrade with a 200MP telephoto camera sensor.
    3. The OnePlus 16 may include telephoto macro capability, similar to the Oppo Find X9 series.
    4. Battery capacity for the OnePlus 16 is rumored to increase to 9,000mAh, up from 7,300mAh in the OnePlus 15.
    5. The display refresh rate of the OnePlus 16 is anticipated to exceed 200Hz, and it will likely include a new high-end Snapdragon processor.


    The OnePlus 15 has a smaller camera setup when compared to the previous model. It features a reduced-size main sensor and telephoto lens, and it does not include Hasselblad color tuning. Nonetheless, recent leaks indicate that the telephoto camera for the upcoming OnePlus 16, likely set to launch in 2026, will see significant enhancements.

    Camera Upgrades

    Digital Chat Station, a well-known leaker, previously suggested that the OnePlus 16 might sport a 200MP camera sensor. However, it wasn’t specified if this would be for the main camera or the telephoto lens. Now, new information from @OnePlusClub on X has provided further insights.

    The leak claims that the OnePlus 16 will be equipped with a 200MP 1/1.56-inch sensor specifically for its telephoto camera. In contrast, the OnePlus 15 features a 50MP 1/2.76-inch telephoto sensor. Additionally, the OnePlus 16 could offer a telephoto macro capability, similar to what is seen in the Oppo Find X9 series.

    Battery and Display

    In terms of battery life, the OnePlus 16 is rumored to come with a 9,000mAh battery, an increase from the 7,300mAh found in its predecessor. The display refresh rate is also expected to surpass 200Hz. Moreover, the OnePlus 16 is likely to feature the latest high-end Snapdragon processor. Reports suggest that Qualcomm is set to unveil two versions of its upcoming chipset: the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. It is still uncertain which of these two chipsets will be utilized in the OnePlus 16.

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  • Smartphone Prices Surpass $400 for the First Time Ever

    Smartphone Prices Surpass $400 for the First Time Ever

    Key Takeaways

    1. The high-end smartphone market is rapidly growing, leading to a 3% increase in average selling prices (ASP).
    2. Apple dominates the market with a 57% share, driven by strong sales of the iPhone 16 and 17, resulting in an 11% revenue growth to $76 billion.
    3. Samsung saw a 17% increase in unit sales but faced a 20% drop in ASP due to a focus on affordable models during the holiday season.
    4. Xiaomi experienced a decline in both revenue and unit sales by around 10%, affected by rising component costs.
    5. Future smartphone prices are expected to rise further due to increasing demand for AI features and expensive RAM.


    Figures from Counterpoint Research show that the high-end smartphone market is growing rapidly. More and more customers are choosing premium devices, which has led to a 3% increase in the average selling price (ASP) compared to last year. This rise in prices is not just about luxury; costs for hardware, like memory chips, have also jumped significantly.

    Apple Leads the Market

    Counterpoint Research indicates that Apple was the top brand in 2025. The American tech giant held a commanding 57% market share in the last quarter of that year. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 17, along with strong interest from consumers in China and the US, contributed to Apple’s revenue, which grew by 11% to reach $76 billion. The Pro Max model in particular sold very well.

    Samsung’s Mixed Performance

    Samsung experienced the highest growth in unit sales, which increased by 17%, but it struggled with average prices. The South Korean company focused heavily on its affordable Galaxy A series during the holiday season, resulting in a 20% drop in ASP. However, overall sales still rose by 12%, partly due to the new Galaxy S25 models and the foldable Z Fold7.

    Xiaomi Faces Challenges

    Things are not looking good for Xiaomi. Both revenue and unit sales fell by around 10%. The company is heavily impacted by the rising prices of components like DRAM and NAND, which are squeezing profit margins on its lower-cost models. On the flip side, Oppo performed well in the premium market. Thanks to its Reno 14 series and new models in the Find line, Oppo’s revenue increased by a significant 23%.

    Looking ahead, it seems that prices will rise even more in 2026. The demand for AI features and costly RAM is expected to make smartphones more expensive in the future. Experts from Counterpoint warn that those unable to keep up with these climbing prices may soon face serious difficulties.

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