Category: Phones

March 3, 2024
Galaxy S25 Series Rumor: Exynos 2500 Exclusively
Rumors are circulating online regarding the anticipated Galaxy S25, despite its probable release being a year away. Speculation suggests that the Galaxy S25 series might be exclusively equipped with Samsung's proprietary Exynos 2500 chip. However, the likelihood of this scenario is uncertain. Let's explore the reasons behind this speculation.
Galaxy S25 Series and the Exynos 2500 Chip
A recent rumor from tipster Connor hints that the Samsung Galaxy S series smartphones in 2025 could potentially feature only Exynos chipsets. Interestingly, it is rumored that the Galaxy Z series smartphones will stick with Snapdragon SoCs exclusively, while the Galaxy A series devices may use a combination of MediaTek and Exynos chips.
The Doubt Surrounding the Rumor
Despite these rumors, the plausibility remains in question. Samsung recently engaged in a long-term agreement with Qualcomm concerning the utilization of Snapdragon SoCs in its Galaxy flagship smartphones, commencing from the Galaxy S24 series. This collaboration led to the introduction of customized "for Galaxy" chips in recent Samsung S-series devices.
Given the existing agreement, it is rational to anticipate that several more iterations of Galaxy S series and Galaxy Z series smartphones will incorporate top-tier Snapdragon processors.
Development of Exynos 2500 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 Chips
While initial performance tests indicate that Samsung's Exynos 2400 chip competes favorably with its Qualcomm counterpart, it is probable that the Galaxy S25 series will introduce certain models featuring the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
Both the Exynos 2500 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chips are still in the developmental phase, just like the Galaxy S25 phones themselves. As details are subject to change, it is premature to make definitive conclusions regarding the final product specifications.
Tags: Samsung, Samsung Galaxy S25, Technology Rumors
March 3, 2024
Google Pixel Phones Launching Satellite SOS Feature
Satellite connectivity has already demonstrated its importance as a safety tool on the iPhone, and now Android phones, particularly Google Pixel devices, are gearing up to introduce a similar feature known as "Satellite SOS." This upcoming feature will enable users to reach emergency services even in the absence of cellular or Wi-Fi signals.
Signs of “Satellite SOS” on Google Pixel Devices
While the feature is not yet fully active, Pixel phone users have noticed a "Satellite SOS" option within the "Safety & Emergency" settings. Upon further investigation by 9to5Google on a rooted Pixel phone, a detailed menu was uncovered, shedding light on how Satellite SOS is expected to function.
Understanding Satellite SOS Functionality
According to the Satellite SOS page, Pixel users will be able to communicate with emergency services and share their location using Google Maps when traditional networks are unavailable. Additionally, users might have the option to provide information regarding the emergency situation they are facing.
Implementation and Data Sharing
To facilitate this service, Google will need to gather personal information like the user’s name, phone number from their Google account, and details of up to three emergency contacts. Furthermore, details such as the user’s location, device specifics, and information about the emergency will be shared with both emergency responders and satellite service providers.
Although Google has not specified the countries where Satellite SOS will be accessible, a reference to a Garmin Search and Rescue Insurance plan hints at possible collaboration with Garmin. Demo features are visible, yet they are not operational at present.
The exact timeline for the full-scale launch of Satellite SOS by Google remains uncertain. Nonetheless, the broad availability of the setting on Pixel devices and the detailed menu associated with it suggest that a release could be on the horizon.
Tags: Emergency connectivity, Google Pixel, Satellite SOS feature
March 3, 2024
Vivo X Fold 3 3C Certified, Expected to Support 80W Charging
The Chinese regulatory body, 3C, recently gave the green light to the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro under the model number V2337A. Following this approval, the Vivo X Fold 3, distinguished by the model number V2303A, has also received certification from the Chinese regulatory platform. There is widespread speculation that the X Fold 3 series will make its debut in the domestic market later this month.
Vivo X Fold 3 Receives 3C Certification
The 3C certifications for the Vivo X Fold 3 hint at the inclusion of a V8073L0E0-CN power brick, possibly supporting up to 80W charging.
Notable Specifications and Features
Earlier findings indicated that the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro could come with a 120W charger as per its 3C certification. It is anticipated that the Pro model will offer 50W wireless charging, a feature the standard variant might lack. Reports suggest the X Fold 3 could pack a 5,600mAh battery, while the Pro version might boast a 5,700mAh battery. Moreover, industry insights point towards the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processors empowering these two foldable devices.
Display and Camera Expectations
Details regarding the display sizes of the Vivo X Fold 3 and X Fold 3 Pro remain undisclosed. However, it is predicted that both devices will support internal screens with 2480 x 2200 pixels and outer displays offering 1080 x 2520 pixels. The Pro model is anticipated to showcase ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint scanners on both displays. Whether the X Fold 3, positioned as a budget-friendly option, will house a side-mounted fingerprint scanner or adopt ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint technology remains uncertain.
The camera setups of both models are speculated to sport a 50-megapixel OmniVision OV50H primary camera with OIS and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens. While the X Fold 3 may include a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with up to 40x zoom capability, the X Fold 3 Pro is expected to feature an OmniVision OV64B 64-megapixel periscope telephoto lens instead.
Tags: Foldable Phones Market, smartphone specifications, Vivo X Fold 3
March 3, 2024
Vivo X100 Ultra Launch Delayed: Report
Vivo is anticipated to host an event this month in China to introduce the Vivo X Fold 3 series of foldable smartphones and the Vivo Pad 3 range of high-end tablets. There have been reports suggesting that the much-awaited Vivo X100 Ultra could be announced in late April in China. However, an updated disclosure from tipster Digital Chat Station now indicates a further delay in its launch.
Vivo X100 Ultra's Launch Postponed
The most recent leak from DCS hints that the unveiling of the Vivo X100 Ultra might not happen until May. This delay implies that the device could potentially be introduced in May or even later. Speculations suggest that the phone will boast the most robust camera setup ever witnessed on an Android device.
Advanced Camera Setup
Rumored details point towards a 50-megapixel LYT-900 primary camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and a 200-megapixel periscope telephoto camera that might offer up to 200x digital zoom capability. Additionally, other leaks suggest that the camera ensemble could comprise a 50-megapixel IMX598 ultra-wide lens and an IMX758 telephoto camera. The reason behind the reported delay in launching the Vivo X100 Ultra remains unclear.
While recent sources have referred to the device as the Vivo X100 Ultra, the company is yet to officially verify this name. The current Vivo X100 and X100 Pro smartphones come with the Dimensity 9300 chipset, whereas it is anticipated that the X100 Ultra will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.
Tags: Smartphone Launch Event, vivo, Vivo X100 Ultra
March 3, 2024
Galaxy A35 5G Leaks: New Colors and Full Specs Unveiled
New information regarding the Galaxy A35 5G is steadily coming to light. Previously, we shared some specifications of the Galaxy A35 5G, and now a recent leak has unveiled the upcoming color options for the phone. The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G will be available in four different colors – namely Awesome Lilac, Awesome Navy, Awesome Ice Blue, and Awesome Lemon. Unlike its predecessor, the A34, which also came in four color variants, Samsung has decided to go with some pastel shades this year.
Galaxy A35 Colors & Specifications
The Galaxy A55 is anticipated to be officially revealed in Germany in March, and its counterpart, the Galaxy A35, is likely to be introduced around the same period. YTECHB recently shared an article containing leaked render images of the Galaxy A35 along with some specifications.
Galaxy A35 5G Color Options
The phone boasts an IP67 certification, weighs 209 grams, and has a thickness of 8.2 mm. Featuring a sleek 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a punch-hole notch, and a resolution of 1080 x 2340, the device is equipped with an Exynos 1380 processor that can be paired with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage, depending on the chosen configuration. Additionally, it houses a 5000 mAh battery and will come pre-loaded with One UI 6.1, which is based on Android 14.
Galaxy A35 5G
On the back, the device sports a triple-camera setup comprising an f/1.8 50MP primary camera, an f/2.2 8MP ultra-wide-angle sensor, and an f/2.4 5MP macro camera. Regrettably, the Galaxy A35’s 4K video recording capabilities are limited to 30 frames per second. Furthermore, users can record FHD videos at 30 FPS using the selfie camera.
While the forthcoming A35 doesn’t bring significant enhancements compared to the A34, the Galaxy A35 5G represents a modest yet appealing upgrade. The launch of both the Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55 is anticipated in the upcoming weeks, potentially in March. The starting price of the Galaxy A35 is expected to be around €379 in Europe.
Tags: Color options, Samsung Galaxy A35 5G, Smartphone Specs
March 3, 2024
Polestar Phone Teaser: Images Surface via MIIT Certification
Polestar Phone, rumored for release in the Chinese market, is speculated to be a rebranded version of the recently unveiled Meizu 21 Pro. This speculation gains credence with the emergence of images of the Polestar Phone from MIIT certification, showcasing a design that mirrors the Meizu flagship.
Polestar Phone Design Unveiled
The images obtained from the MIIT certification for the Polestar Phone confirm its striking resemblance to the Meizu 21 Pro. Featuring the prominent Polestar logo at the center and the engraved "Polestar Phone" text at the base, the certification, however, does not divulge details regarding the device's specifications. It is anticipated that the Polestar Phone might boast similar internal components as the Meizu 21 Pro.
Meizu 21 Pro Specifications
The Meizu 21 Pro boasts a 6.79-inch BOE Q9 OLED QHD+ display with a resolution of 3198 x 1368 pixels and an LTPO 120Hz refresh rate, achieving a peak brightness of 1250 nits. Equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, it offers configurations of 12 GB or 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM along with 256 GB or 512 GB of UFS 4.0 storage.
Powering the device is a 5,050mAh battery supporting 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. Its camera setup comprises a 32-megapixel front camera, a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS, a 13-megapixel ultra-wide and macro lens, and a 10-megapixel telephoto lens with OIS.
Noteworthy features of the Meizu 21 Pro include an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, an Aicy smart RGB-LED ring, an IR blaster, and dual speakers. Connectivity options encompass Wi-Fi 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, and an IP68 water and dust resistance rating. The device is priced starting at 4,999 Yuan (~$703) in China.
Tags: Polestar Phone, Smartphone
March 3, 2024
Vivo V30 Series: Indian Pricing Leaks Before March 7 Launch
After the recent introduction of the Vivo V30 and V30 Pro smartphones in the Indian market, these devices are now gearing up for their official launch on March 7. Prior to the unveiling, the rumored prices for these smartphones have surfaced online.
Pricing Details
The leak regarding the pricing of these smartphones comes from Abhishek Yadav (@yabhishekhd). According to the leak, the Vivo V30 Pro is anticipated to be priced at Rs.41,999 for the 8GB/256GB variant, while the Vivo V30 will reportedly retail for Rs.33,999.
Vivo V30 Specifications
The Vivo V30 showcases a 6.78-inch curved edge AMOLED display featuring FHD+ resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate. It is equipped with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC, offering configurations of up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. Operating on FuntouchOS based on Android 14, the device boasts a triple rear camera setup that includes a 50MP primary camera. Additionally, it houses a 50MP front camera and is powered by a 5000mAh battery with 80W fast charging support.
Vivo V30 Pro Specifications
The V30 Pro model sports a similar 6.78-inch AMOLED display but with a higher 1.5k resolution. It is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC and offers up to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM alongside 512GB UFS 3.1 storage capacity. Running on the Android 14 operating system, the V30 Pro shares a triple rear camera setup with a 50MP primary camera. It also features a 50MP front camera and supports 80W fast charging, backed by a 5000mAh battery.
Tags: Smartphone Launch Event, vivo, Vivo V30 Series
March 2, 2024
Samsung Galaxy S24 Update: March Security Patch Released
Samsung has launched its most recent software update for the Galaxy S24 series, bringing the March 2024 security patch. This update started rolling out towards the end of February, following an initial firmware release that primarily focused on enhancing camera functionalities and adjusting display colors.
Update Details and Build Numbers
Users located in regions like Canada, Germany, Italy, and various parts of Europe have shared news of receiving the update carrying the build number AXBG. Here are the software build numbers for all three devices within the series:
- Galaxy S24: S921USQS1AXBG
- Galaxy S24+: S926USQS1AXBG
- Galaxy S24 Ultra: S928USQS1AXBG
Security Patch Inclusion
While Samsung's changelog doesn't provide detailed insights into specific changes, the main highlight of this update undoubtedly lies in the incorporation of the March security patch. The update size for the Galaxy S24 Ultra is approximately 756MB, while for the other models in the series, it is around 428MB.
Samsung's Update Strategy
Samsung has a reputation for being one of the top smartphone manufacturers in terms of regularly issuing monthly security updates. Although the February 2024 update arrived a bit later than usual for the flagship Galaxy devices, the company has now returned to its regular schedule with the March update, even beating Google to the punch.
Upcoming Updates and Features
Other Galaxy models like the Galaxy S23 and Z Fold 5 are anticipated to receive the March patch later in the month. This aligns with Samsung's confirmation that the One UI 6.1 update, showcasing Galaxy AI capabilities, will be available for these devices towards the end of March.
The upcoming update will introduce several features including Circle to Search, AI-powered wallpapers, Generative Edits for images, Note Assistant, and more. To check if the AXBG firmware update is available for your Galaxy S24, simply go to Settings > Software update > Download and install. While carrier-locked devices might experience a slight delay, unlocked models globally are expected to receive the update within the next few days.
Tags: Galaxy S24 series launch, Samsung, software updates
March 2, 2024
Popular Indian Apps at Risk of Removal as Google Play Store Enforces Stricter Policies
Google has begun enforcing its Play Store payment policy with various Indian app developers, a move that could lead to tensions with local tech firms. This enforcement may result in the removal of non-compliant apps, including popular ones like Shaadi.com and Quack Quack, from the platform.
Compliance Efforts Vary Among Developers
While some developers have started adhering to the policy, others have not yet done so. These companies had previously contested Google's policy in court but did not receive temporary protection. Presently, some, like Info Edge, have confirmed compliance, whereas others, such as Matrimony.com, have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their industry.
Options for Delisted Developers
Google has outlined options for developers facing delisting: integrating with Google Play's billing system (the standard approach), using an alternate billing system alongside Google Play (at a reduced fee but with less control), or operating as consumption-only (no fees but limited features). These choices underscore the importance of following Play Store policies and prompt developers to evaluate their compliance and select the most suitable option to maintain app availability for users.
This recent enforcement action underscores the significance of Play Store policy adherence. Developers must consider their compliance status and make decisions to ensure their apps remain accessible to users. For some developers, the implications of non-compliance are severe, potentially requiring policy restructuring in response to updated regulations. The industry awaits to see how developers will navigate and respond to this policy enforcement.
Tags: Compliance, Google Play Store, Indian App Developers
March 2, 2024
Lava Blaze Curve 5G Price Leak Before March 5 Launch
Indian smartphone company Lava is gearing up to introduce its newest offering, the Lava Blaze Curve 5G, during a live launch event on March 5, 2024, streamed from Lakshadweep. Ahead of the official unveiling, details regarding the pricing of the device have emerged.
Pricing Insights
Although the official pricing for the Lava Blaze Curve 5G has not been officially confirmed, speculations suggest it could kick off at Rs 16,999. This aligns with the current retail price of the Lava Agni 2 5G by the same brand.
Specifications Overview
The Lava Blaze Curve 5G boasts a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, 8GB LPDDR5 RAM, and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage capacity. Recent findings from a Geekbench listing indicate that the device will operate on an Android 13-based system. Its visual interface is presented through a 6.67-inch curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, promising a vibrant and seamless display quality.
Features and More
In the realm of audio, the device is equipped with dual stereo speakers to enhance the sound experience. The camera setup is reported to include a 64MP primary camera with a Sony sensor. Additionally, leaks suggest that the phone will house a robust 5,000mAh battery.
With the launch event on the horizon, specific details about the phone remain scarce. However, anticipation surrounds the possibility of the device being available in two color variants, with pricing expected to fall within a range of Rs 16,000 to Rs 19,000.
Tags: Lava Blaze Curve 5G, Smartphone Launch Event, Tech Specifications