Category: Phones

  • Leica Leitz Phone 3: 1″ Sensor, Unique Camera Features

    Leica Leitz Phone 3: 1″ Sensor, Unique Camera Features

    The Leitz Phone 3 serves as the successor to Leica Leitz Phone 2, launched in November 2022 through a collaborative effort among respected camera and lens manufacturers Leica, Sharp and SoftBank. It stands out with advanced imaging functions and Leica camera modes; scheduled to go on sale exclusively in Japan starting April 19, pricing details remain undisclosed at this point in time. Let us examine its standout features together.

    This phone’s body features premium polycarbonate texture for an exceptional tactile experience reminiscent of Leica cameras, making the weighty yet comfortable feel even greater. Weighing just 209 grams ensures its substantial yet comfortable feel.

    Camera System and Features

    The Leitz Phone 3 takes its cue from its predecessor, the Leitz Phone 2, when it comes to its camera system: both feature an identical 47.2MP 1-inch sensor with eight phase detection autofocus mechanism allowing rapid and precise focussing ensuring image quality even under dim lighting conditions. Leica asserts this sensor offers rapid and precise focusing enabling exceptional image quality even under less-than-ideal circumstances.

    At 19mm focal length, the main camera on the Galaxy S24 Ultra sits comfortably between primary and ultrawide lenses found on mainstream smartphones like its counterpart. A front camera boasting 12.6MPs for selfies offers wide viewing angle of 78 degrees as well as an aperture setting of f/2.3 for front selfie shots.

    Improving image quality was particularly notable in three key areas – improved representation of light spots both visually and with respect to shape/color; refined object segmentation; and the addition of "vivid" and "enhanced" Leica tints which led to more dynamic and striking captures.

    One notable feature is "Leica Perspective Control," previously only found on Leica cameras. Furthermore, this phone’s camera system detects camera tilt during shooting and corrects it through software processing; furthermore "Leica Style" and "Leica Tone" allow users to apply aperture effects reminiscent of classic lenses on their images.

    Other Specifications

    The device features a 6.6" OLED display with a resolution of 2730 x 1260, supporting 240Hz refresh rate, and reaching maximum brightness levels of 2000nits.

    Performance wise, this phone features last year’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip which, while not as powerful as current flagship models, remains highly capable and ensures smooth image processing. Furthermore, users have ample storage capacity with support for up to 1TB UHS-1 memory cards; furthermore it retains its traditional 3.5mm headphone jack for convenience.


    Leica Leitz Phone 3: 1
  • Honor Executive: “Small Matter” Response to Redmi Apology

    Honor Executive: “Small Matter” Response to Redmi Apology

    Redmi has recently unveiled their mid-range smartphone, Redmi Turbo 3, at an official event in China. However, during its unveiling conference an accidental mislabeling occurred when Redmi’s phone was mistakenly identified with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered Honor 100 Pro; becoming known by mistake as its “third generation Snapdragon 7.”

    Apology and Clarification

    After this oversight occurred at the press conference, Wang Teng, General Manager of Redmi brand immediately acknowledged and apologized for its effects.


    Honor

    Previous Incidents And Responses

    Similar incidents have been documented. At a Zhiji L6 press conference, incorrect information regarding Xiaomi SU7 was shared incorrectly; prompting Redmi officials to apologize for their mistake and for Honor to explain itself further on Weibo by honor product manager Wei Xiaolong who clarified on Weibo the significance of healthy competition as driving progress and development within Chinese smartphone industry.

    Redmi Turbo 3 Specifications

    Redmi Turbo 3 is powered by Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip, an updated version of their flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset scheduled to debut in 2023. Offering similar cores but with slight variance in configuration, clock speeds, and cache size variance, this smartphone delivers competitive performance while boasting a 6.67-inch AMOLED display featuring 1220×2712 resolution at 2400nit peak brightness, 16GB memory storage up to 1TB storage, 50MP main sensor 8MP ultrawide lens 20MP selfie camera all packed into IP64 dust/waterproof casing for protection – one variant featuring 12GB RAM/512GB storage is priced around 2,299 Yuan ($317)

  • Is Realme P1 Pro’s Curved Display Claim Misleading?

    Is Realme P1 Pro’s Curved Display Claim Misleading?

    Realme recently unveiled two P1 smartphones designed specifically for India: P1 and P1 Pro. Realme claims these models feature “Only Curved Display Under 20K,” while Realme claims P1 boasts “First 120Hz AMOLED Display Under 15K,” sparking intense debate online among critics who allege Realme of engaging in misleading marketing practices.

    Lava Mobile’s Blaze Curve 5G Challenge

    Lava Mobile’s Blaze Curve 5G device launched during Q1 2024 was at the centre of much controversy; featuring an AMOLED 120Hz display for Rs 17,999 it squarely falls within Realme’s target sub-20K price bracket.

    Comparative Analysis

    While Realme’s P1 Pro may offer enhanced features such as Pro-XDR support and Rainwater Touch, being “only” one on the market may not be an advantage given Lava smartphone’s existence.

    Validity Of Realme’s Claims

    Realme claims their P1 boasts of being “The First 120Hz AMOLED Display Under 15K.” At present, there appears to be little competition within this price category with only POCO X6 Neo being priced under Rs 15k as an equivalent device; although, due to further specifications being added by Realme could potentially push its pricing beyond 15k threshold.

    Consumer Advice

    Informed purchasing decisions depend heavily on research. Relying on reliable tech news outlets and comparing specs across phones in their price bracket are essential in reaching informed buying decisions.

    Realme’s P1 and P1 Pro smartphones will debut in India on April 15th. As more details become known prior to launch day, we shall see whether Realme addresses claims of being the “only” phone under 20K with an inherently curved display.

  • Samsung Galaxy S20 Series Now on Quarterly Security Updates

    Samsung Galaxy S20 Series Now on Quarterly Security Updates

    Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+ or S20 Ultra owners have good news on the software support front: while these phones may have gone beyond Samsung’s typical software update schedule, users won’t be abandoned in terms of security – instead of monthly updates, quarterly security patches will now be provided and this could translate to receiving security patches every three months for an unspecified period of time.

    Samsung Galaxy S20 Series Security Updates Transition

    However, Samsung remains uncertain when it comes to supporting its Galaxy S20 FE handset model – this particular handset will continue receiving monthly security updates at this time; how they intend on supporting it following the four year software support term expires is unknown.

    Specifications And Features Of the Samsung Galaxy S20

    Launched in February 2020, the Samsung Galaxy S20 features an expansive 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display featuring 120Hz refresh rate protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 6. Available in various colors and water resistant, this phone runs either an Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865 processor depending on region and features a triple lens rear camera setup with 64MP primary sensor as well as 10MP front-facing camera – plus includes fast charging capabilities with fast-charging options and wireless charging options for added convenience.

  • iQOO Neo 9s Pro Allegedly 3C Certified, Launch Expected in Weeks

    iQOO Neo 9s Pro Allegedly 3C Certified, Launch Expected in Weeks

    iQOO recently unveiled their sub-flagship offerings iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro as part of December 2023, while there have been reports that another Neo 9 series phone is on its way; its official name remains undisclosed though many speculate its possible naming could include Neo 9s Pro (or Racing Edition) device – this has recently been hinted by 3C certification database listing of an unknown Vivo handset possibly hinting towards it’s imminent arrival as Neo 9s Pro device.

    3C Certification Reveals Potential Neo 9s Prototype

    Existing models of the iQOO Neo 9 and Neo 9 Pro sold in China carry model numbers V2338A and V2339A respectively; recently however, another device marked with this same model number received approval by China’s 3C authority, fuelling speculation as to its identity or possible connections to this series of smartphones.

    Possible Upgrade to IQOO Neo 9s Pro?

    Given their close similarity in model numbers, it seems possible that V2339FA device could represent a new iteration of the iQOO Neo 9 Pro; most likely its anticipated variant, Neo 9s Pro. Further verification must take place to ascertain its exact identity and name.

    The 3C certification of the V2339FA device suggests its inclusion of a 120W fast charger; however, details regarding it remain scarce at present.

    Vivo may launch its Vivo X100s and Vivo X100s Pro smartphones in China next month with support for the Dimensity 9300 Plus chipset; reports state this possibility exists with Neo 9s Pro as well.

  • Realme GT Neo 6 SE: Under $250

    Realme GT Neo 6 SE: Under $250

    Realme has unveiled their cutting-edge smartphone, the Realme GT Neo 6 SE in China today following the success of their GT Neo 5 SE device. Boasting features like its stunning 6000 nit display and powerful Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, let us explore its specifications, features, and pricing in depth.

    Realme GT Neo 6 SE Specifications

    Realme GT Neo 6 SE stands out with its outstanding display. Boasting an 6.78-inch flexible OLED panel utilizing BOE S1 luminescent material, its peak brightness reached over 6000nits – setting an industry standard in brightness levels.

    However, the phone’s peak brightness of 6000-nits is intended more for HDR content or specific scenarios and has an expected global maximum brightness setting of 1600 nits and manual maximum brightness setting of 1000 nits for everyday usage.

    Additionally, this screen features a 2780 x 1264 resolution with 8T LTPO technology to deliver smooth 120Hz refresh rates, and offers precise touch responses at 2500Hz instantaneous touch sampling rate – perfect for gamers seeking precise touch responses.

    Realme GT Neo 6 SE is powered by Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 SoC, which shares similar fabrication and architecture elements to that found on flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Additionally, Realme has added a large heat dissipation system and gaming-oriented features like GT mode 5.0 for optimal gaming performance.

    Realme’s phone features an impressive 5500mAh battery with 100W fast charging capabilities for 50% charge in just 12 minutes, supporting its long battery life with SUPERVOOC S power management chip support.

    Cameras And Additional Features

    Realme GT Neo 6 SE features a three-camera setup including a 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor with OIS, 8MP ultra wide angle lens sensor and 32MP selfie front-camera for selfies. Furthermore, the phone also comes equipped with features like an in-display fingerprint sensor for added security as well as its new Realme UI 5.0 operating system.

    Price and Availability

    The Realme GT Neo 6 SE will launch across Chinese channels on April 17th for purchase through all channels; early adopters can access this device during a special trial purchase window for early bird orders.

    Pricing details are as follows:

    • 8GB + 256GB: 1,699 yuan (approximately $235)
    • 12GB + 256GB: 1,899 yuan (approximately $260)
    • 16GB + 256GB: 2,099 yuan (approximately $290)
    • 16GB + 512GB: 2,399 yuan (approximately $330)

  • Vivo Y38 5G: Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, Expected May Launch

    Vivo Y38 5G: Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, Expected May Launch

    Last week it was made known that Vivo is currently working on three smartphones; these being the Vivo Y38 5G, Vivo Y03s, and Vivo Y03t with model numbers V2343, V2333, and V2344 respectively. Bluetooth SIG certification authorities as well as CQC have approved of one model already; another being Bluetooth SIG 5G which has made an appearance across various databases such as Bluetooth SIG CQC Geekbench databases respectively.

    Vivo Y38 5G Bluetooth SIG Certification Listings

    Bluetooth SIG listing for the Vivo Y38 5G has confirmed its model number as V2343 and confirmed support for Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity. Furthermore, CQC certification indicated compatibility for 44W fast charging capability.

    Geekbench Listing of Vivo Y38 5G

    Vivo’s Y38 5G smartphone was also detected in Geekbench benchmarking database shortly before appearing in Bluetooth SIG database earlier in January, as reported from source code analysis. Geekbench lists it with Qualcomm chip named "parrot", with reports suggesting its inclusion will powering this smartphone with Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset powering it.

    Vivo Y38 5G Geekbench Listing

    Geekbench listing also revealed that this handset will feature 8GB RAM and operate with Android 14. In performance tests, it garnered 3092 points in single core testing while 7035 points was achieved during multi core tests.

    Bluetooth SIG devices typically make their debut within one month; therefore, it seems likely that the Y38 5G might make its official debut sometime during May; however, specific details regarding its release remain undisclosed.


    Vivo Y38 5G: Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, Expected May Launch
  • Latest Update: Qualcomm Developing New Mid-Range Mobile Processors

    Latest Update: Qualcomm Developing New Mid-Range Mobile Processors

    Qualcomm is reported by Android Headlines as currently developing three mid-range mobile processors under model numbers: SM4635, SM6650 and SM7635 – likely belonging to their Snapdragon 4, 6 or 7 series series depending on which conventions Qualcomm adheres to for their namesakes.

    Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro will be the inaugural phone to feature Qualcomm’s mid-range chipset SM7635 chipset, known by its code name of "pitti." Meanwhile both SM6650 and SM7635 share this moniker; Roland Quandt had suggested in February that this may be Snapdragon 4 Gen 3, as details surfaced regarding "Kalpeni," an early test project with 6GB LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage for this particular chip compared with earlier iterations being identified by model numbers SM4375 or 4450 respectively

    Rumors And Predictions

    Rumors surrounding Qualcomm’s "volcano" processors SM6650 and SM7635 suggest they could take an approach similar to its Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (SM6450) and 7s Gen 2 (SM7435) models (codenamed parrot), with similar specifications; Android Headlines predicted the latter may surpass Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, thus solidifying Qualcomm’s position in mid-range SoC market; Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro could feature these processors; though details surrounding these processors remain scarce at present – more information should soon become apparent as their release approaches.

  • Redmi 13: Latest HyperOS Phone Nears Launch, IMDA & EEC Visit

    Redmi 13: Latest HyperOS Phone Nears Launch, IMDA & EEC Visit

    Xiaomi is in the midst of designing its next phone powered by HyperOS – Redmi 13. This smartphone has already made an appearance at several certification platforms and now seems poised for official release.

    Redmi 13 Sighted on IMDA and EEC

    Redmi 13 from Chinese tech giant Xiaomi had already been discovered on various databases like FCC and IMEI; there it appeared with model number 24049RN28L; however on IMDA and EEC it popped up as 2404ARN45A instead. Unfortunately no other details about its release have yet emerged from these sightings, although this indicates an official announcement could soon take place.

    IMEI listing confirmed Redmi 13 while FCC certification verified its presence and HyperOS 1.0 custom skin built on Android 14. Additionally, FCC certification revealed its battery will have an estimated 4,930mAh rating that should provide for typical battery capacity of around 5,000mAh – offering fast charging support up to 33W via wired fast charging technology. Finally, recent reports provided exclusive details about Redmi 13.

    Xiaomi is internally referring to this device with the codename "moon," model numbers "N19A/C/E/L," and version numbers 2404ARN45A through 2404ARN45I as Redmi 13 variants that feature NFC capabilities; other variants will not; with model numbers 2404ARN45A through 24049RN28L being mentioned for each variation of Redmi 13. It has been speculated that Redmi 13 could possibly be an updated version of POCO M6, although no confirmation from Xiaomi as yet; until official confirmation exists this information should be treated cautiously until then.


    Redmi 13: Latest HyperOS Phone Nears Launch, IMDA & EEC Visit
  • Redmi Turbo 3 Launches in China: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and more

    Redmi Turbo 3 Launches in China: Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and more

    Xiaomi held an event today in China to unveil their Redmi smartphone and tablet products – the Redmi Turbo 3, following last year’s Redmi Note 12 Turbo as part of the Turbo series, now takes on a different name with impressive specifications that build upon previous Redmi devices. The event saw Xiaomi showcase both devices at once.

    Redmi Turbo 3 Specifications and Features

    Redmi Turbo 3 stays true to its predecessor by featuring a flat frame with gently rounded corners, two distinct camera rings and 7.8mm thickness and weight (179 grams). Redmi has certified their phone as SGS five-star drop protection certified by SGS certification body SGS.

    Display and Camera Capabilities

    Redmi Turbo 3 features an OLED display framed by slim bezels and boasting an expansive 6.67-inch OLED panel backed with ultrathin bezels topped off by ultrathin bezels for viewing an image’s elements, along with an ultraslim fingerprint scanner and 1.5K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, peak brightness of 2,400nits peak brightness rating and offers fingerprint scanning as standard features. Notably it also includes AI object eraser feature similar to Pixel’s Magic Eraser for editing images to remove unwanted elements – perfect for editing images!

    Performance And Software

    Packed with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor – a variant of Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 – the Redmi Turbo 3 offers up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, along with Xiaomi’s Ice Cooling system for effective heat dissipation during demanding usage scenarios. A large VC area and Ice Cooling help disperse excess heat effectively during heavy usage scenarios; additionally it includes 90W fast charging support with its 5,000mAh battery offering fast charge capabilities; Air Gestures enable users to control devices remotely from distance without physical contact when taking selfies or when hands become wet when taking selfies or taking videos without physical contact being required or when hands wet when taking pictures or taking selfies etc; in addition it includes AI features like live subtitles/summarization/summarization to name just some features provided out-of-the-box with HyperOS-based Android 14 straight out-of-the box!

    Connectivity And Pricing

    Redmi Turbo 3 offers connectivity options including USB-C port, WiFi-7, Bluetooth, NFC and more. Starting at CNY 1,999 ($276) for its 12GB + 256GB base model, premium variants such as 12GB+512GB are priced from CNY 2,299 ($317) while 16GB + 1TB models start selling on April 15 for CNY 2,799 ($386) each and come in Ice Titanium, Green Blade and Black Crystal colors with sales beginning April 15.