Category: Phones

March 18, 2024
Blackview Oscal Modern 8: Budget Phone with Unisoc T616, Android 13 – Starting at $95.99
Chinese smartphone manufacturer Blackview has introduced the Oscal Modern 8, a budget-friendly device that combines decent specifications with an affordable price point. The initial pricing for this smartphone, which is powered by Unisoc’s T616 SoC, starts at just under $100 for the base configuration.
Specs Overview
The Oscal Modern 8 operates on the Android 13-based DokeOS 4.0 mobile operating system. Sporting a 6.75-inch IPS display boasting a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels, this device also packs a sizable 6,000mAh battery with support for 18W fast charging.
Performance and Camera Features
Equipped with the Unisoc T616 chipset, an entry-level processor, the Modern 8 underwent rigorous reliability tests, showcasing impressive results, including an AnTuTu score of 285,000. Its camera setup includes a 50MP Samsung ISOCELL JN1-based rear camera and an 8MP Samsung ISOCELL 4H7 front camera. The rear camera, introduced in 2021, features a 1/2.76-inch sensor and a pixel size of 0.64 micrometers. The smartphone also boasts a peak brightness of 450 nits and a 90Hz display refresh rate.
Additional Features and Connectivity Options
The Oscal Modern 8 incorporates an integrated cooling system to maintain optimal temperatures during demanding tasks. Its 6,000mAh battery can deliver up to 8 hours of gaming on a single charge and offers an impressive standby time of up to 744 hours. While basic connectivity features are available, the smartphone lacks support for NFC and 5G networks. Customers can select from three color options: Ash Grey, Ripple Blue, and Wisteria Purple.
Pricing and Availability
For a limited time until March 27, the Oscal Modern 8 is available at a discounted rate. The 8/128GB variant is priced at $95.99, while the 8/256GB model costs $108.21. With an early bird discount of 52%, interested buyers can purchase the Oscal Modern 8 online through AliExpress.
Tags: Blackview BV9300 Pro, Budget smartphone, Oscal Modern 8
March 18, 2024
Vivo V30 & V30 Pro Sale in India: 10% Off Instantly Available
Last week, Vivo introduced its V30 series smartphones in India, unveiling two models: Vivo V30 and V30 Pro. These newly launched devices are now accessible for purchase in India through various avenues.
Vivo V30 series pricing & availability
The standard V30 model is offered in three variants: 8GB + 128GB priced at Rs 33,999 ($410), 8GB + 256GB at Rs 35,999 ($435), and a 12GB + 256GB model for Rs 37,999 ($460).
On the other hand, the V30 Pro comes in two versions: 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 512GB priced at Rs 41,999 ($505) and Rs 46,999 ($565) respectively. The V30 Pro is available in Andaman Blue and Classic Black, while the standard V30 has an additional Peacock Green color option. Both models can be purchased through Flipkart and the official Vivo India website.
Discounts and Offers
Customers using HDFC & SBI cards for the purchase on Flipkart can avail a 10 percent instant discount. A similar discount is available for HDFC and ICICI bank card users on Vivo's official website and stores.
Vivo V30 series specifications
The Vivo V30 Pro boasts a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, 1.5K resolution, and a peak brightness of 2800 nits. It runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC, paired with up to 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of UFS 3.1 storage.
Featuring a triple rear camera setup with a 50-megapixel main camera equipped with OIS and Zeiss optics, a 50-megapixel telephoto lens offering 2x optical zoom, and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, the V30 Pro also includes a 50-megapixel front camera. Notably, this setup with three 50-megapixel sensors is a characteristic found in flagship models.
Other key features include a 5,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging, Android 14 with FunTouch 14, IP54 water and dust resistance, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and LED ring lighting.
The standard Vivo V30 shares the same 6.78-inch display and 120Hz refresh rate as the Pro model but features an FHD+ resolution and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC. It is powered by FunTouch OS 14, equipped with a 5,000mAh battery supporting 80W charging, and ensures two Android and three years of security updates.
Its rear cameras consist of a 50-megapixel primary and ultra-wide sensors, along with a 2-megapixel portrait lens, diverging from the Pro model's telephoto lens option. The front camera also boasts a 50-megapixel sensor. While lacking the Zeiss bokeh and processing features, this version retains the IP54 rating, HDR10+, ring LED lighting, and an in-display fingerprint scanner.
Tags: Smartphone Launch Event, specifications, Vivo V30 Series
March 18, 2024
Vivo V40 SE Leaks: Full Specs, Renders, Possible Y200e 5G Rebrand
Vivo V30 series smartphones recently made their global debut, but there are already talks about the upcoming V40 series, with the Vivo V40 SE appearing in certifications like Bluetooth SIG and GCF. A leak by Appauls has revealed renders and specifications of the Vivo V40 SE.
Vivo V40 SE Renders and Specifications
The leaked renders showcase a design for the V40 SE that differs significantly from the V30 series but bears a striking resemblance to the recently released Vivo Y200e 5G. The V40 SE is expected to come in a blue color option similar to the Y200e, with a potential light purple variant as well.
The specifications of the V40 SE appear to align closely with those of the Y200e. Rumors suggest that the V40 SE will be equipped with the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor, LPDDR4X RAM, and UFS 2.2 ROM.
Featuring a 6.67″ AMOLED display offering FHD+ resolution (2400×1080 pixels) and a 120Hz refresh rate, the V40 SE is poised to deliver an immersive visual experience.
Camera and Additional Features
The rear camera setup of the V40 SE is rumored to include a 50MP main lens, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP lens for portrait or macro shots. On the front, users can expect a 16MP selfie camera. Security features may include an in-display optical fingerprint sensor.
The device is speculated to house a 5000mAh battery with 44W fast charging support, potentially featuring an IP54 protection rating. Additional rumored features encompass MicroSD support for storage expansion up to 1TB, Dual SIM functionality, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C 2.0, and GPS.
Expected Price and Launch
Rumors suggest that the Vivo V40 SE in an 8/256GB configuration could be priced between EUR 250 to EUR 300.
Although the official launch date of the V40 SE remains undisclosed, an association with UEFA Euro 2024 hints at a possible launch around the commencement of the Champions League on June 14th, marking Vivo as the official smartphone brand for the event.
Tags: Rumored specifications, Smartphone Leaks, Vivo V40 SE
March 18, 2024
Vivo X Fold 3 Pro Design Revealed: Key Specifications Unveiled
Vivo is gearing up to introduce its latest lineup of smartphones, the Vivo X Fold 3 series. This upcoming series will comprise a standard X Fold 3 and a premium X Fold 3 Pro model. Recent leaks have shed light on the camera specifications of the X Fold 3 Pro, and now, Vivo’s Vice President, Jia Jingdong, has disclosed further insights into the X Fold 3 series, including a glimpse of the X Fold 3 Pro’s design.
Thinnest and Lightest Foldable Yet
Jia Jingdong took to Weibo to announce that the X Fold 3 series will claim the title of being the "thinnest and lightest" flagship foldable device to date. These foldables are expected to pack a punch with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset powering them.
Impressive Features and Performance
Accompanying the camera previews of the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro, Jia also unveiled three product images that likely belong to the X Fold 3 Pro. Noteworthy specifications include an AnTuTu score surpassing 2.17 million, an 8.03-inch Samsung E7 display, and top-tier imaging capabilities inherited from the vivo X100 series. The device boasts Zeiss T* lenses, a 50-megapixel primary camera, and Vivo’s V3 imaging chip.
Durability and Innovation
The X Fold 3 series stands out with its robust build, thanks to the specially designed "Armor Feather" body structure tailored for foldables. This construction has earned the device the world’s first foldable SGS five-star anti-drop certification and IPX8 water resistance rating. To address battery longevity concerns, the phones will incorporate a cutting-edge "Blue Ocean" battery system, promising sustained performance even in challenging conditions. Moreover, Vivo’s "Blue Heart" AI model will be seamlessly integrated into these futuristic foldable devices.
Tags: Flagship Technology, foldable smartphones, Vivo X Fold 3
March 17, 2024
Android 15: Locate Your Smartphone Even When Off
Finding a lost or misplaced Android phone can be a troubling ordeal, especially when the device is powered off. Google's Find My Device service, while helpful, faces constraints when the device is not connected. With the advent of Android 15, Google is addressing this challenge through the introduction of a new Powered Off Finding API.
Enhanced Device Location with Android 15
A recent article from Android Police reveals insights into how this API could aid in locating devices even when they are turned off. The mechanism involves storing pre-calculated Bluetooth beacons in the Bluetooth controller's memory.
Hardware Requirements and Compatibility
However, there is a requirement for specialized hardware to enable the device to power the Bluetooth controller, enabling its operation even when the phone is completely shut down. This functionality may necessitate a small battery reserve to remain active.
Potential Device Compatibility
Initial speculations hinted at the Pixel 9 being the first to feature this capability. Yet, the latest report from Android Police suggests that the Pixel 8 could also enjoy this functionality upon upgrading to Android 15.
Apart from the hardware prerequisites, substantial software development efforts are essential to support the Bluetooth Finder HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer). Users are advised to update to Android 15 and ensure they have the most recent version of Google's Find My Device service installed.
Regrettably, older devices like the Pixel Fold, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel 6 series may not be as likely to receive this feature. It remains uncertain whether these devices lack the required hardware or if the limitations are solely software-related.
Nonetheless, there is a potential for this feature to expand to select older devices in the future, especially for recent premium models like the Pixel Fold.
Tags: Android 15, Google Find My Device
March 17, 2024
Realme GT Neo 6 Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 Spotted on AnTuTu, Launch Imminent
Realme has officially confirmed the upcoming launch of the Realme GT Neo 6 SE in the Chinese market, featuring the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor. Alongside the SE model, reports suggest that Realme also intends to introduce the Realme GT Neo 6, equipped with a new Snapdragon 8-series chip. The device, identified with the model number RMX3851, was initially detected on Geekbench sporting the new chip in February and has now made an appearance on AnTuTu, hinting at an imminent release.
Realme GT Neo 6 AnTuTu Listing
Realme unveiled the Realme GT 5 Pro powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in December 2023, which garnered attention with an impressive AnTuTu score of 2.2 million pre-launch. The Realme GT Neo 6, featuring the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 (tentative name), has achieved a notable score of 1,846,775 points on AnTuTu, as shown in the screenshot.
Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 Specifications
Rumors surrounding the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 indicate that it will be a modified version of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The chip is anticipated to include a primary CPU core clocked at 3.01GHz, 3 x Cortex-A720 cores operating at 2.61GHz, and three Cortex-A520 cores running at 1.84GHz, complemented by Adreno 735 graphics.
The Realme GT Neo 6 is expected to feature an OLED panel offering a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The device may come with up to 24 GB of RAM and up to 1 TB of storage, in addition to a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS support and 100W charging capabilities.
The Realme GT Neo 6 is not limited to the Chinese market, with plans for a global release as evidenced by certifications from platforms like Europe’s EEC, India’s BIS, and Indonesia’s TKDN. In China, the Realme GT Neo 6 is likely to face competition from other speculated Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 devices, including the iQOO Z9 Turbo and the Redmi Note 13 Turbo.
Tags: AnTuTu Listing, Realme GT Neo 6 SE, Snapdragon 8s Gen 3
March 17, 2024
Redmi Note 13 Turbo & Poco F6: New Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 Chip Expected
Redmi is reportedly developing a new phone for the Chinese market in the Note 13 series. Several phones have been released in this series, including the Redmi Note 13 5G, Note 13 Pro 5G, Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G, Redmi Note 13R, and Redmi Note 13R Pro. The upcoming Redmi Note 13 Turbo is expected to be the most powerful device in this lineup, with rumors suggesting it will feature the Snapdragon 8-series chipset.
Redmi Note 13 Turbo's Powerful Chipset
Redmi previously introduced the Redmi Note 12 Turbo in China with the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 chipset. This phone was later rebranded as the Poco F5 for the global market. The upcoming Redmi Note 13 Turbo, which is intended for the Chinese market only, is likely to be known as the Poco F6 internationally.
Next-Gen Qualcomm Snapdragon Chipsets
Qualcomm is set to reveal the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 on March 18 in China. Additionally, there are expectations for the announcement of the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, which is believed to be a lower-clocked variant of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, in the near future.
Initial reports indicated that the Note 13 Turbo might utilize the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset, following the use of the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 in the Note 12 Turbo. However, a leak from tipster Smart Pikachu suggests that the Note 13 Turbo will be powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip. The leak also hints at the imminent arrival of a new tablet from Redmi, potentially alongside the Note 13 Turbo in April.
With the Note 13 Turbo expected to feature the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, the Poco F6, as its global variant, is likely to incorporate the same chipset. The global launch of the Poco F6 may take place in April or May.
In the Chinese market, the Redmi Note 13 Turbo will compete with other devices powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, such as the iQOO Z9 Turbo and the Realme GT Neo 6.
Tags: Poco F6 Pro, Redmi Note 13 Turbo, Snapdragon 8s Gen 3
March 17, 2024
Samsung Galaxy A35 & A55 Displays and Cameras Earn Praise from DxOMark
Earlier this week, Samsung introduced the Galaxy A35 and A55 smartphones on a global scale. Following their debut, renowned camera and display assessment authority DxOMark provided positive feedback on both devices.
DxOMark’s Display Verdict
DxOMark acclaimed the Galaxy A35 and A55 as display champions within their respective price brackets. The A35 leads the pack for phones under $400, while the A55 shines for devices priced at $500 or lower.
Brightness Levels and Color Accuracy
In their assessments, DxOMark highlighted the impressive peak brightness levels of the Galaxy A35 at 1344 nits and the A55 at an even more remarkable 1638 nits. Comparatively, last year’s Samsung flagship, the Galaxy S23, achieved 1600 nits, showcasing the mid-range phones’ ability to match flagship brightness levels.
Camera Performances
DxOMark testers commended the exceptional color accuracy of both devices across diverse lighting conditions and their strong performance in HDR video playback. The Galaxy A35 secured the second-best camera rating in its price category, excelling particularly in outdoor photography and video recording. On the other hand, the Galaxy A55 ranked fifteenth in its segment for camera performance, facing challenges in backlighting, low-light situations, and capturing scenes with motion.
Specifications Overview
Here is a quick rundown of the specifications for the Samsung Galaxy A35 and A55:
- Display: Both phones feature a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Performance: The Galaxy A55 is powered by an Exynos 1480 chip, offering up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. Meanwhile, the Galaxy A35 runs on the Exynos 1380 chip, paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.
- Cameras: The A55 sports a 50MP primary camera with OIS, 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 5MP shooter. On the other hand, the A35 comes with a 50-megapixel main sensor, an 8-megapixel ultra wide-angle camera, and a 5-megapixel macro lens.
- Battery: Both devices are equipped with a 5000mAh battery that supports 25W wired charging.
Tags: DxOMark Analysis, Samsung Galaxy A35, Samsung Galaxy A55
March 17, 2024
OnePlus Nord CE: 4 Variants Leaked Before Launch
On April 1, OnePlus is set to introduce the OnePlus Nord CE 4 smartphone in India. The product's Amazon landing page has already disclosed key details such as its chipset, RAM capacity, storage type, and available color options. With the launch date approaching, there is anticipation for more leaks and information about the Nord CE 4. A recent leak from tipster Mukul Sharma has provided further insights into the different variants of the upcoming device.
OnePlus Nord CE 4 Variants (Rumored)
OnePlus has officially confirmed that the Nord CE 4 will come with LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. The company has stated that the device will feature 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage, marking the highest configuration for the Nord CE 4 as per the tipster.
Sharma's leak indicates that the base model of the Nord CE 4 will include 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage. Additionally, OnePlus has revealed that the device will incorporate 8 GB of virtual RAM and will be powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor. After the recent introduction of the Vivo V30, the Nord CE 4 will become the second smartphone in the country to be equipped with this chipset.
Storage and Color Options
Apart from the internal storage, the OnePlus Nord CE 4 will also provide a microSD card slot for expanded storage options. The device is confirmed to be available in two color variants: Dark Chrome and Celadon Marble. Notably, the Nord CE 3 was launched in India last year with a starting price of Rs 26,999, and it is expected that the Nord CE 4 will maintain a similar pricing strategy in the market.
Reports suggest that the Nord CE 4 might be a rebranded version of the Oppo K12, which is anticipated to debut in China soon. Leaked specifications for the K12 include a 6.7-inch FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, 16 GB of RAM, 512 GB of internal storage, a 16-megapixel front camera, and a 50-megapixel + 8-megapixel + 2-megapixel triple camera setup.
Tags: Nord CE 4, Oneplus, Technology Rumors
March 17, 2024
Xiaomi Civi 4 Allegedly Receives 3C Certification with 67W Charging
A new Xiaomi smartphone has recently received certification from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) bearing the model number 24053PY09C, sparking speculation that it could be the anticipated Xiaomi Civi 4. This same device has also made an appearance on the 3C certification platform.
Certification Details
The certification listing highlights the device’s impressive 67W charging capability, although further specifications remain undisclosed.
Market Expansion
Interestingly, a related Xiaomi phone identified as model number 24053PY09I has been spotted within India’s BIS authority, hinting at a potential rebranded version of the Civi 4 tailored for the Indian market.
Future Features
Expectations for the Xiaomi Civi 4 include a cutting-edge 1.5K flat display shielded by a 2.7D micro curved glass, reminiscent of Xiaomi’s 14 series. Reports also suggest the presence of Leica co-branded cameras, headlined by a 50MP sensor—a notable divergence as the first non-Xiaomi series phone to showcase Leica branding.
Advanced Specifications
The device is rumored to boast a metal frame and glass back design akin to premium flagship smartphones. A robust battery exceeding 5,000mAh capacity is anticipated, accompanied by fast charging support, potentially reaching speeds of up to 100W or even 120W.
Future Processor Integration
Speculation surrounds the potential inclusion of Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor in the Xiaomi Civi 4, aligning with Qualcomm’s planned unveiling of new SoCs on March 18th, likely featuring the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 alongside the 7+ Gen 3.
Tags: Smartphone Variant Launch, Xiaomi, Xiaomi Civi 4