Category: Phones

  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Launch Delayed to May Due to Hurdle

    Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Launch Delayed to May Due to Hurdle

    Key Takeaways

    1. The launch of the Galaxy S25 Edge is delayed, likely moving from April to a new window between May and June 2025.
    2. The delay is attributed to changes in management within Samsung’s MX division, not production or quality issues.
    3. Samsung has confirmed plans to launch the Galaxy S25 Edge in South Korea around the adjusted timeline.
    4. Key features of the Galaxy S25 Edge include the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy SoC, a titanium alloy frame, and a 2K AMOLED screen.
    5. The smartphone is expected to have a 3,900mAh battery with 25W wired fast charging and a dual camera setup, possibly featuring a 200MP main sensor.


    Samsung has recently presented the Galaxy S25 Edge, yet there’s been no confirmed date for the launch of this super slim flagship phone. Although prior reports suggested that this high-end smartphone would be revealed later this month, a new update casts doubt on that timeline.

    Delay in Launch

    According to an ETNews report, the initial launch schedule for April may be pushed back. Samsung is likely delaying the Galaxy S25 Edge’s release by one or two months, with a revised launch window expected between May and June 2025. Initially, India was set to unveil the ultra slim flagship on 15th April 2025, but a shift in leadership could be a factor in this postponed launch.

    Reasons Behind the Setback

    The report indicates that changes in the management of the company’s MX division are the main reason for the delay in the announcement. If this is accurate, the postponement is not due to any issues with production or quality control. Samsung has allegedly communicated with three telecom providers, confirming plans to launch the Galaxy S25 Edge in South Korea around this adjusted timeline. It’s worth noting that the company may reveal the specifications, pricing, and launch dates during an online presentation.

    Expected Features

    From what we’ve gathered so far, this device is anticipated to utilize the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy SoC. A standout feature is its sleek design, complemented by a titanium alloy frame and a 2K AMOLED screen. The smartphone may be powered by a modest 3,900mAh battery, which could support a rather lackluster 25W wired fast charging. On the back, it is expected to have a dual camera arrangement, which might include a 200MP main sensor.

  • Faster Snapdragon Chip Revealed for Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 Pro

    Faster Snapdragon Chip Revealed for Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 features a replaceable 4,050mAh battery and a durable, water-resistant, drop-proof design.
    2. The upcoming Galaxy XCover 7 Pro is expected to replace the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ with the more powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor.
    3. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 offers significant performance improvements, with Geekbench scores showing 67% faster single-thread and 76% faster multi-thread performance compared to the Dimensity 6100+.
    4. The Galaxy XCover 7 Pro will support NFC for contactless payments, as well as WiFi 6, Bluetooth, and 5G connectivity.
    5. The Galaxy XCover 7 Pro is likely to run on One UI 7 based on Android 15, with a battery capacity of 4,265mAh and an entry model featuring 6GB of RAM, though its price and launch date are still unknown.


    The Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 is different from other Samsung Galaxy smartphones today, mainly because it has a 4,050mAh battery that can be easily replaced. It also has a tough, water-resistant, and drop-proof body. The release of the pricier Galaxy XCover 7 Pro seems to be close, as it has been seen on Geekbench and received certification from the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

    Performance Upgrades

    It looks like Samsung is planning to swap out the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ in the Galaxy XCover 7 for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3. This new processor is much more powerful and includes four ARM Cortex-A715 performance cores along with four Cortex-A510 efficiency cores. With a Geekbench 6 score hitting 1,157 points in single-thread performance and 3,288 points in multi-thread, this chip is 67 percent and 76 percent quicker than the Dimensity 6100+ found in the base model. The FCC certification also shows that the Galaxy XCover 7 Pro will have NFC for contactless payments, alongside support for WiFi 6, Bluetooth, and 5G.

    Software and Specs

    The Galaxy XCover 7 Pro is likely to come with One UI 7, which is built on Android 15. At least one version of the new mid-range smartphone will have the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 paired with just 6GB of RAM, hinting at a reasonably priced entry model. Its battery capacity is 4,265mAh, which is about 5% larger than that of the standard Galaxy XCover 7. While this battery is smaller than those in many standard mid-range Android phones, it’s much simpler to replace. The specific price and launch date for the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 Pro remain unannounced.

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  • Google Pixel 9a Battery Voltage Limits After 200 Charging Cycles

    Google Pixel 9a Battery Voltage Limits After 200 Charging Cycles

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a will introduce a “battery health optimization” feature that lowers battery voltage over time.
    2. This feature may lead to shorter battery life compared to the Pixel 9 after several months of use.
    3. Google has not provided specific details on the extent of voltage reduction, leaving its impact unclear.
    4. Unlike Apple, users won’t have the option to disable the optimization on the Pixel 9a.
    5. The battery health feature will be available for other Pixel devices later, with older models allowing users to turn it off.


    A few days back, Google revealed when the Pixel 9a would be launched:

    Battery Life Insights

    Even with a bigger battery, the Pixel 9a may have a shorter battery life compared to the Pixel 9 after it has been used for several months. This was confirmed by Google in a support document stating that the Pixel 9a will be the first Pixel phone to introduce a “battery health optimization” feature. This feature works by automatically lowering the battery voltage once it hits 200 charging cycles. The voltage will continue to decrease gradually until it reaches 1,000 charging cycles. With reduced voltage, the battery life will likely decrease, and charging times will be slower. Google claims this method is meant to “stabilize battery performance and wear,” but it brings to mind the disastrous battery update that made many Google Pixel 4a phones nearly unusable.

    Uncertain Impact on Battery Life

    Google hasn’t provided specific figures on how much the voltage will be decreased, leaving us in the dark about its actual impact on battery life. Unlike Apple’s iPhone, there’s no option to turn off these “optimizations” on the Pixel 9a. To regain the full battery voltage after 200 cycles or more, users would need to get a new battery. Google has told 9to5Google that this “battery health optimization” feature will be rolled out to other Pixel devices later this year through a software update, but owners of older models will be able to turn off the feature if they wish.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the Pixel 9a is set to introduce a significant change in how battery health is managed, but its implications remain uncertain. Users should be aware of these potential issues as they consider the new device.

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  • Nubia Z70S Ultra: ZTE Reveals New Photographer Edition Upgrade

    Nubia Z70S Ultra: ZTE Reveals New Photographer Edition Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. ZTE updates its Nubia flagship phones approximately every six months.
    2. The Nubia Z70 Ultra was recently launched, with a global release following its debut in China.
    3. ZTE plans to release the Nubia Z70S Ultra Photographer Edition with an upgraded 35 mm camera system.
    4. The exact release date for the Photographer Edition is not yet known, but it is expected later this month.
    5. The new model may feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version chipset for enhanced performance.


    ZTE frequently updates its Nubia flagship phones approximately every six months. For example, the Nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version was introduced last July after the initial Nubia Z60 Ultra was unveiled in December of 2023.

    Upcoming Refresh

    Now, ZTE is gearing up to refresh the Z70 Ultra, which is currently priced at $769 on Amazon. This newer model made its debut in China on November 21, followed by a global release just five days later. Up to this point, ZTE has been quite secretive about the specific changes between the two models, even though the new device was spotted recently at TENAA.

    New Features Expected

    ZTE has announced plans to replace the Z70 Ultra with the Nubia Z70S Ultra Photographer Edition. While the exact release date is still under wraps, the company has indicated that we can expect the launch to happen later this month. Moreover, it appears that the Photographer Edition will feature an upgraded 35 mm camera system, which ZTE touts as ‘fifth generation 35 mm high definition optics.’

    Anticipated Specifications

    At this moment, ZTE has not disclosed further information about the Nubia Z70S Ultra Photographer Edition. However, it would be surprising if the company opted not to use the SM8750-AC chipset, known as the Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version, to set the new phone apart from the Z70 Ultra. Interestingly, Digital Chat Station had predicted in October that this version would start appearing in devices from April going forward.

    Nubia via GSMArena

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  • Vivo X200 Ultra: Camera Samples from Premium Ultra-Wide Lens

    Vivo X200 Ultra: Camera Samples from Premium Ultra-Wide Lens

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vivo’s executive Han Bo Xiao shared camera samples of the X200 Ultra, comparing it favorably to a DSLR and the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
    2. The X200 Ultra features an innovative ultra-wide-angle camera with a 1/1.28-inch optical format and ‘Zeiss ultra-level’ optical image stabilization (OIS).
    3. The phone is expected to use the Sony LYT-818 sensor with a 50 MP native output for both the main camera and ultra-wide-angle camera.
    4. The main camera will be paired with a 35 mm lens, while the ultra-wide-angle camera will have a 14 mm equivalent focal length.
    5. The X200 Ultra aims to enhance smartphone photography with advanced camera technologies and impressive specifications.


    Vivo’s executive Han Bo Xiao has recently shared some new teasers about the X200 Ultra on Weibo. He posted camera samples that showcased the phone quite favorably when compared to a DSLR and an iPhone 16 Pro Max (currently priced at $1,021.95 on Amazon). After that, Han Bo Xiao aimed to demonstrate how the X200 Ultra outshines the iPhone in areas where Apple usually excels.

    Camera Features

    Now, the same executive has displayed images taken with the X200 Ultra’s innovative ultra-wide-angle camera. Han Bo Xiao mentioned that this camera features a 1/1.28-inch optical format along with ‘Zeiss ultra-level’ optical image stabilisation (OIS). In simpler terms, it looks like the X200 Ultra will incorporate the Sony LYT-818 sensor, which delivers native output at 50 MP.

    Sensor Specifications

    If previous leaks hold true, Vivo will apply the same sensor for the main camera of the X200 Ultra. To provide some context, the LYT-818 is expected to be paired with a 35 mm lens as part of the main camera setup. On the other hand, the ultra-wide-angle camera is anticipated to have a 14 mm equivalent focal length. Regardless of this, both cameras will feature two dedicated image signal processors (ISPs), which we have discussed in separate details.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Han Bo Xiao’s recent insights about the X200 Ultra hint at a device that might push the boundaries of smartphone photography. With its advanced camera technologies and impressive specs, this device could be a strong contender in the market.

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  • Vivo Unveils April Releases: Smartphones, Smartwatches, Tablets

    Vivo Unveils April Releases: Smartphones, Smartwatches, Tablets

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vivo is launching the X200 Ultra and other products in China later this month.
    2. The X200 Ultra aims to compete with the Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
    3. Other devices being launched include the X200s, Pad5 Pro, Pad SE, and Watch 5.
    4. A pre-booking site is available for early-bird discounts, but the exact launch date is unclear.
    5. Vivo’s launch strategy positions it to compete closely with Oppo’s upcoming products.


    Vivo is gearing up for a major product launch event in China later this month. Recently, the company has been building anticipation for the X200 Ultra, and now it has disclosed additional products that will be unveiled alongside its new camera flagship. This device is expected to compete directly with the Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max (curr. $1,021.95 – refurbished on Amazon) when it debuts.

    Product Lineup

    Vivo has confirmed that the X200 Ultra will be joined by several other devices, including the X200s, Pad5 Pro, Pad SE, and the Watch 5. These products have also been highlighted in teaser images, which we’ve included below. Unfortunately, details about the specific date for Vivo’s April launch event remain unclear. However, they have launched a pre-booking site that allows fans to enjoy various early-bird discounts.

    Teasers and Speculation

    It is likely that today marks the start of Vivo revealing more specific teasers for each product, since they have primarily focused on the X200 Ultra up until this point. There is still no information available on whether the X200s, X200 Ultra, Pad5 Pro, Pad SE, or Watch 5 will be sold outside of Vivo’s home market. Nevertheless, the number of devices Vivo plans to introduce will enable it to compete closely with Oppo, which has already announced its upcoming launch of the Find X8s, Find X8s Plus, Find X8 Ultra, Pad 4 Pro, and Watch X2 Mini on April 10.

    Vivo’s strategy appears to be setting the stage for a competitive showdown in the smartphone market this month.

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  • Redmi A5 Launches: Affordable Smartphone with 120Hz Display & 5200mAh Battery

    Redmi A5 Launches: Affordable Smartphone with 120Hz Display & 5200mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Redmi A5 4G smartphone features a new design but retains many specs from the Redmi A4, including a similar display size and resolution.
    2. It is powered by a Unisoc T7250 octa-core chip, with options for up to 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of expandable storage up to 2 TB.
    3. The rear camera includes a 32 MP main sensor, a downgrade from the A4’s 50 MP, and an 8 MP front camera for selfies.
    4. The device has a 6.88-inch IPS LCD display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and a 5,200 mAh battery that supports 15 W wired charging.
    5. Running on Android 15 (Go Edition), the Redmi A5 includes features like a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, and Bluetooth 5.2, priced at $79.


    Xiaomi has just introduced the new Redmi A5 4G smartphone to global markets. This entry-level device features a fresh design while keeping many of the specifications from its predecessor, the Redmi A4. Notably, the dual-camera arrangement comes in a pill-shaped module reminiscent of the iPhone 16. However, there are no major upgrades in terms of specs.

    Performance and Storage

    The Redmi A5 is equipped with a Unisoc T7250 octa-core chip, which works alongside up to 4 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128 GB of eMMC 5.1 internal storage. Users can expand storage further to a whopping 2 TB using a microSD card. The rear camera setup includes a 32 MP main sensor, a downgrade from the A4’s 50 MP sensor, along with an unspecified secondary sensor. On the front, it houses an 8 MP camera for selfies and video calls.

    Display and Battery Life

    On the display front, the budget smartphone keeps the same 6.88-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 1640 x 720 pixels, offering a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a touch sampling rate of up to 240 Hz. The display also holds TUV Rheinland certification for eye comfort. The battery has seen a minor increase in capacity, now featuring a 5,200 mAh battery compared to the 5,160 mAh found in the A4, and supports 15 W wired charging.

    Operating System and Features

    In terms of software, the Redmi A5 operates on Android 15 (Go Edition) right out of the box, but there’s no information on how long the brand will provide software support. The device measures 8.26 mm (0.32 inches) thick and weighs only 193 grams (0.42 lbs). Other notable features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, support for up to 4 GB of RAM expansion, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity.

    The Redmi A5 is offered in four color options: midnight black, lake green, sandy gold, and ocean blue, with a retail price of $79. It is currently available for purchase on Xiaomi’s official website and other authorized retailers.

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  • Samsung Galaxy A55 One UI 7 Update: Unfulfilled Promises

    Samsung Galaxy A55 One UI 7 Update: Unfulfilled Promises

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Android 15-based One UI 7 Beta for the Galaxy A55 was expected in March but has been delayed.
    2. The Galaxy A55 is the only non-flagship device in the Beta Program, raising questions about Samsung’s update strategy.
    3. Other devices, including the Galaxy S and Z series, are also awaiting updates, with stable versions expected to start rolling out on April 7.
    4. The Galaxy A55 is facing a potential wait until the second half of April for its update due to delays.
    5. The delay is attributed to a high volume of flagship models still pending updates and the extensive development of One UI 7.


    Samsung had said that the Android 15-based One UI 7 Beta would be out for the Galaxy A55 in March, but as April is almost here, users are still waiting. The A55 is the only non-flagship phone included in the Beta Program, and this delay is making people wonder about the company’s update strategy.

    Other Devices Awaiting Updates

    While the Galaxy A55 has not yet got the beta update, various devices from the Galaxy S and Z series are also currently in the same boat. Most of these are “expected” to get the stable update starting in April. This includes the Galaxy S24, S23, S22 series, and the 5th and 6th generation foldables, along with the Galaxy Tab S10, S19, and S8 series. Samsung has said that the stable rollout will kick off on April 7.

    Delayed Rollout for A55

    Returning to the Galaxy A55, the One UI 7 beta rollout marks its first major OS upgrade. Sadly, Samsung did not manage to deliver the update as promised by the end of March. Even though Samsung’s Indian division hinted at preparations through a noticeboard in the Members Community, the timeline is slipping away. Given the number of pricier models still waiting for stable updates, A55 users could be looking at a wait until the second half of April for their update.

    The recent global launch of the Galaxy A26, A36, and A56, all of which come equipped with Android 15 and One UI 7.0 straight out of the box, emphasizes the strange situation of the A55. If the beta does come out shortly, the testing phase may be cut short.

    Reasons for the Delay

    Samsung seems to want the A55 to get Android 15 as soon as possible, but the extensive list of flagship models still pending updates is likely causing this setback. The company stated that One UI 7 is built from the ground up, which is part of the reason for the delay this year. The Galaxy A55 still has a bit of a wait ahead before it gets the stable Android 15 update. Meanwhile, users can explore the new features available.


  • OnePlus 13 Update: Security Fixes and New User Issues Reported

    OnePlus 13 Update: Security Fixes and New User Issues Reported

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus has begun a gradual release of OxygenOS 15.0.0.703 for the OnePlus 13 in India, with plans for a global rollout later.
    2. The update includes important security enhancements, such as linking the privacy password to the OnePlus account and the March 2025 Android security patch.
    3. System improvements feature enhanced text translation for Breeno Touch, along with updates for better performance and stability.
    4. Users have reported mixed feedback, with concerns about decreased battery life and issues like touchscreen lag and screen flickering.
    5. OnePlus encourages users to report problems through the “Bug Report” section and is asking for patience as they assess the update’s stability before a wider release.


    OnePlus has started a gradual release of OxygenOS 15.0.0.703 for the OnePlus 13 in India (CPH2649_15.0.0.703(EX01)), with plans to expand globally later. This update brings various security enhancements, system upgrades, and the Android security patch for March 2025.

    Security Enhancements

    The update features important changes to security and system functionalities. Users will now be asked to connect their privacy password with their OnePlus account. This means if someone forgets their privacy password, they can reset it via their account, making it easier to access personal data again. The March 2025 Android security patch is also part of this update.

    System Improvements

    There are also system improvements, such as enhanced text translation for Breeno Touch, along with updates focused on system performance and stability.

    Feedback from users on the OnePlus Community forum has been mixed. Some users recognize the goals of the update, but numerous concerns regarding battery life have been raised. Several users reported that their screen-on time (SOT) has decreased to between 4 and 6 hours, with one person commenting, “Battery is why I upgraded, but backup is unsatisfactory.” Others have noted that battery drain appears to be higher than in earlier versions.

    User Experience Issues

    Issues with touchscreen responsiveness have also been reported, such as lagging inputs and unintended double taps. One user pointed out screen flickering when switching between apps like WhatsApp, asking, “Are there steps to fix this?” Additionally, some users noticed unexpected changes in the user interface, such as altered font sizes and misaligned widgets.

    OnePlus is urging users to report any problems through the “Bug Report” section in the OnePlus Community App or by dialing *#800#. The company has emphasized that this update is being rolled out progressively and has asked for patience as it prepares for a wider release “in a few days.” To date, OnePlus has not provided an official response regarding the battery or display issues raised by users. Indian users are the first to experience this update, with global rollout contingent on stability evaluations.

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  • Vivo X200s Color Variants and Specs Leaked in Official Images

    Vivo X200s Color Variants and Specs Leaked in Official Images

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo X200s will launch in April in China alongside the X200 Ultra, with new color options including Soft Purple and Mint Blue.
    2. It features a flat 6.67-inch display with a 1.5K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, along with an advanced ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.
    3. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ chipset, the X200s aims for excellent single-core performance and improved multitasking capabilities.
    4. The smartphone has a battery capacity exceeding 6,000mAh, supports 90W wired charging, and includes wireless charging features.
    5. The Zeiss-branded triple-camera system consists of three 50MP sensors, including a versatile 3x periscope telephoto lens with variable apertures.


    Vivo has made it official that the Vivo X200s will launch in April in China, along with the X200 Ultra. Today, the company unveiled the official images of the X200s, highlighting its color variations. Simultaneously, well-known tipster Digital Chat Station has confirmed the main specifications of the X200s.

    Color Choices for Vivo X200s

    The fresh renders show the Vivo X200s in Soft Purple and Mint Blue. Unlike the Vivo X200 that was released in October 2024, the X200s has shifted from a micro-curved display to a flat 6.67-inch panel with very thin bezels. This screen, made with BOE’s Q10 technology, offers a resolution of 1.5K and a 120Hz refresh rate, promising a clear and smooth visual experience. Moreover, Vivo has included an advanced ultrasonic fingerprint sensor for better security and ease of use.

    Performance Specs

    The Vivo X200s will run on the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ chipset, which is an improved version of the Dimensity 9400. The D9400+ is expected to keep the same architecture as its predecessor, featuring one Cortex-X925 ultra-core, three Cortex-X4 performance cores, and four Cortex-A720 cores. The main core, clocked at 3.7GHz, is designed to deliver excellent single-core performance, enhanced multitasking, and quicker gaming load times. Benchmark results for the Dimensity 9400 have already surpassed 3 million points on AnTuTu, and the upgraded version is anticipated to achieve even higher scores.

    Battery and Camera Features

    The Vivo X200s will come with a battery capacity of over 6,000mAh, which is slightly bigger than the 5,800mAh found in the X200. It supports 90W wired charging and also has wireless charging features. For those who love photography, this smartphone will include a Zeiss-branded triple-camera system, which consists of three 50MP sensors. This setup includes a 3x periscope telephoto lens, with focal lengths ranging from 15mm to 70mm and variable apertures between f/1.57 and f/2.57.

    In addition to the Vivo X200s and X200 Ultra, the company will also launch other products, such as the Vivo Pad 5 Pro, Pad SE, and Watch 5.