Category: Phones

  • Confirmation of global launch date for Red Magic 9 Pro

    Confirmation of global launch date for Red Magic 9 Pro

    Red Magic Announces Global Launch Date for Red Magic 9 Pro & 9 Pro+ Gaming Smartphones

    Red Magic, a renowned gaming smartphone brand, has unveiled its latest flagship devices, the Red Magic 9 Pro and 9 Pro+. Powered by the cutting-edge Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, both smartphones are set to make a splash in the gaming world. Today, the brand has announced the official global launch date for these devices.

    Global Launch Date

    According to a teaser on Red Magic's global website, the Red Magic 9 Pro is scheduled to be launched globally on December 18th at 7 AM EST. Gaming enthusiasts from around the world can mark their calendars and get ready to experience the power-packed smartphones.

    Red Magic 9 Pro Specifications

    The Red Magic 9 Pro boasts an impressive range of specifications that are sure to appeal to gamers. It features a 6.8-inch Full HD+ OLED display with a high 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth and immersive gameplay. The device also offers a remarkable 960Hz touch sampling rate, allowing for precise and responsive touch controls.

    With a 10-bit color depth and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, the Red Magic 9 Pro delivers stunning visuals. It achieves up to 1600 nits brightness and supports both DC dimming and 21600Hz PWM dimming for enhanced display quality.

    Under the hood, the Red Magic 9 Pro is powered by the Octa-Core Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 4nm Mobile Platform and Adreno 750 GPU, guaranteeing powerful performance and seamless gaming experiences. Users can choose from various configurations, including 8GB, 12GB, 16GB, or a massive 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, paired with 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB storage utilizing UFS 4.0 technology.

    To ensure uninterrupted gaming sessions, the Red Magic 9 Pro is equipped with a substantial 6500mAh battery. It also supports 80W fast charging, enabling users to quickly recharge their devices and get back to gaming in no time.

    Camera and Additional Features

    The Red Magic 9 Pro excels in the camera department as well. It boasts a remarkable camera setup, including a 50MP 1/1.57-inch Samsung GN5 sensor and a 50MP 120-degree ultra-wide lens featuring a Samsung JN1 sensor. On the front, the device sports a 16MP under-display camera, ensuring clear and detailed selfies.

    In addition to its impressive specifications, the Red Magic 9 Pro offers several other features tailored for gamers. These include an in-display fingerprint sensor for convenient unlocking, a 3.5mm audio jack for immersive audio experiences, dual 1115K speakers with DTS:X ULTRA for enhanced sound quality, and three microphones for crystal-clear voice communication.

    Measuring at 163.98×76.35×8.9mm and weighing 229g, the Red Magic 9 Pro is designed to provide a comfortable and ergonomic grip during gaming sessions. It offers various connectivity options, including 5G, Wi-Fi 6E 802.11 ax (2.4GHz + 5GHz + 6GHz), Bluetooth 5.4, GPS (L1/L5) + GLONASS, USB Type-C, and NFC.

    With its impressive specifications and gaming-centric features, the Red Magic 9 Pro is set to become a sought-after gaming smartphone in the market. Gamers worldwide can look forward to experiencing the device's power and performance when it hits the global market on December 18th.

  • Samsung Galaxy A34 5G Receives One UI 6.0 Update Built on Android 14

    Samsung Galaxy A34 5G Receives One UI 6.0 Update Built on Android 14

    Samsung has started rolling out its latest One UI 6.0 update based on Android 14 for the Galaxy A34 5G. This update is being delivered via an over-the-air (OTA) software update.

    Previously, the company had launched the One UI 6.0 beta update for the mid-range smartphone in select regions. Users who participated in the beta program are now receiving the stable Android 14 version in the UK.

    It is worth noting that the One UI 6.0 beta program is already live for the Galaxy S23 Series and the Galaxy A54. Interestingly, the beta program for mid-range smartphones is now available ahead of the Galaxy S22 series.

    The Galaxy A34 5G is currently receiving the stable One UI 6.0 update based on Android 14. The firmware version for this update is A346BXXU4BWK2 / A346BOXM4BWK3 / A346BXXU4BWK2.

    At the moment, the OTA update is only available to One UI 6.0 beta testers in the UK. However, it is expected that more individuals and countries will be added to the update rollout in the coming weeks.

    The latest update includes a security patch for November 2023, which addresses various software vulnerabilities.

    If you are a UK resident who participated in the One UI 6.0 Beta Program for the Galaxy A34, you can now check for the stable update by going to Settings > Software update and selecting Download and Install.

    One UI 6.0 brings several new features to the Galaxy A34. The Quick Panel arrangement, alerts, and media player widget have been completely redesigned. Waveform animations have also been added, and the app now includes all-new emojis. Samsung has also made improvements to the default applications, except for the camera app, which now has more user-friendly controls. Additionally, users now have more font, size, and positioning options for the lock screen clock widget.

  • Easily Download Instagram Reels with the Latest Update

    Easily Download Instagram Reels with the Latest Update

    Instagram Introduces Reels Download Feature

    Social media addiction is on the rise, with many individuals spending a significant portion of their day watching videos on platforms like Reels, TikTok, and Shorts. However, this habit can lead to anxiety when internet access is unavailable or when data limits are reached. Luckily, Instagram has come up with a solution: the Instagram Reels download feature.

    According to a post by Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri, the platform will now offer a download option similar to YouTube Premium. This means that users can access and watch videos through the app even without an internet connection.

    How does the Reels Download Feature Work?

    The Instagram Reels download feature functions similarly to the download feature found in YouTube Premium. Instead of taking up space in your gallery, the videos are saved in a dedicated area within the app. This allows you to access the downloaded videos offline or without using your data.

    This feature is particularly beneficial for those who like to collect their favorite Reels in the saved section. However, it is important to note that despite Mosseri's statement, this feature has not been rolled out globally yet. It may take a few days for the process to be completed, so screenshots of the feature are not available at this time.

    The introduction of the Instagram Reels download feature has sparked copyright debates. To address this issue, Instagram has implemented measures such as muting the sound during the download of videos with copyrighted music. This helps protect the rights of musicians and artists.

    However, another concern is the theft of videos created by individuals. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok tackle this problem by adding a watermark logo during the download process. This ensures that viewers on other platforms can see the original video owner's name. However, it is important to note that some individuals may still make an effort to download the video from alternative sources.

    Instagram, like YouTube and TikTok, must prioritize the protection of content creators by not directly providing convenience to content thieves.

    Conclusion

    The introduction of the Instagram Reels download feature is a welcome addition for users who want to access videos offline or without using their data. While the feature is not yet available globally, it is expected to be rolled out to users worldwide in the coming days. With measures in place to protect copyright and address content theft, Instagram aims to strike a balance between providing convenience and safeguarding the rights of content creators.

  • Possible Rewrite: Apple’s Iconic Touch ID May Soon Bid Farewell, Suggests Recent Development

    Possible Rewrite: Apple’s Iconic Touch ID May Soon Bid Farewell, Suggests Recent Development

    Touch ID Likely Not Making a Comeback

    Apple's iconic Touch ID, known for its reliable fingerprint authentication, is currently only available on the iPhone SE models. It can also be found on older iPhone 8 and select iPad models. However, rumors of its potential resurrection have been put to rest with recent developments.

    Manufacturing Equipment Permanently Shut Down

    According to an Integrated Circuit expert on Weibo, the equipment used to manufacture chips required for iPhone's Touch ID has been permanently shut down. This means that the remaining units will only be used for the third-generation iPhone SE. As a result, hopes for Touch ID's return on future iPhones have been dashed.

    Facial Recognition as a Secure Alternative

    The TruDepth camera, introduced with the iPhone X in 2017, replaced Touch ID as the primary biometric authentication method. It utilizes facial recognition technology, which is said to be as secure as a fingerprint scanner. In fact, there are rumors that Apple is working on embedding TruDepth camera sensors under the display on future iPhones, allowing for more screen space.

    Apple's Future Plans

    This latest development further solidifies Apple's commitment to facial recognition technology. Recent rumors suggest that the design language of the iPhone SE 4 will be similar to that of the iPhone 14, which features Face ID. This indicates that Apple has no plans to pursue fingerprint recognition in the near future.

    Under-Display Touch ID a Possibility

    While it seems unlikely that Touch ID will make a comeback in its traditional form, there is speculation that Apple may introduce an under-display version of the technology. There have also been discussions about the possibility of Apple adopting both Face ID and Touch ID on future iPhones, but this remains a distant possibility.

    In conclusion, it appears that Touch ID will not be resurrected on iPhones anytime soon. Apple's focus seems to be on enhancing facial recognition technology and maximizing screen space. While the future may hold surprises, for now, Touch ID remains a feature of the past.

  • Honor 100 introduces as the world’s initial Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 smartphone, accompanied by Honor 100 Pro featuring Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

    Honor 100 introduces as the world’s initial Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 smartphone, accompanied by Honor 100 Pro featuring Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

    Honor Unveils Honor 100 Series: Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 8-Series Phones

    Earlier this year, Honor introduced the Honor 90 and Honor 90 Pro smartphones in the Chinese market. Now, the brand has officially announced the Honor 100 series, consisting of two models: the Honor 100, the world’s first Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 phone, and the Honor 100 Pro, featuring a powerful Snapdragon 8-series phone. Let’s take a closer look at what the Honor 100 series has to offer.

    Design and Display

    The Honor 100 and 100 Pro smartphones showcase distinctive designs. Both models feature a quad-curved OLED display on the front, but they differ in their front-facing camera setups. The standard Honor 100 has a single punch hole, while the Pro variant boasts a pill-shaped cutout to accommodate a dual selfie camera system. Moving to the rear, the Honor 100 sports a rectangular camera module with a black D-shaped camera island, housing a dual-camera setup along with an LED flash. On the other hand, the Honor 100 Pro stands out with its oval-shaped camera module, which houses a triple camera unit and an accompanying LED flash.

    Color Options:

    • Honor 100: Glass Black, Moonshade White, Monet Purple, Butterfly Blue
    • Honor 100 Pro: Glass Black, Moon Shadow White, Monet Purple, Butterfly Blue

    Both the Honor 100 and Honor 100 Pro feature OLED panels. The Honor 100 has a 6.7-inch screen, while the Honor 100 Pro boasts a slightly larger 6.78-inch display. Both displays offer a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, 3840Hz PWM dimming, and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. Additionally, both phones come with an in-screen fingerprint scanner for enhanced security.

    Performance and Specifications

    Under the hood, the Honor 100 is equipped with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, which was announced last week. It comes with LPDDR5 RAM, UFS 3.1 storage, and a 5,000mAh battery that supports 100W charging. On the other hand, the Honor 100 Pro features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 4.0 storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 100W wired charging and 66W wireless charging. Both models support dual SIM, 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, NFC, an IR blaster, and a USB-C port. Additionally, both phones are equipped with Honor’s self-developed radio frequency enhancement chip called C1.

    Cameras

    Similar to its predecessor, the Honor 90 series, the Honor 100 series places a strong emphasis on catering to vlogging enthusiasts. The standard Honor 100 model is tailored for impressive vlogging capabilities with its notable 50-megapixel front camera. On the other hand, the Honor 100 Pro takes it up a notch by featuring a dual selfie camera unit with a 50-megapixel Sony IMX816 lens with autofocus support.

    In terms of the rear camera system, both the Honor 100 and 100 Pro feature an OIS-enabled Sony IMX906 50-megapixel primary camera along with a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The Pro model also includes a 32-megapixel telephoto camera that supports up to 2.5x optical zoom. Honor claims that the Honor 100 duo can provide an SLR-level photography experience.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Honor 100 is available in China in three configurations: 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 16 GB RAM + 256GB storage, and 16 GB RAM + 512 GB storage. These configurations are priced at 2,499 Yuan ($350), 2,799 Yuan ($400), and 2,999 Yuan (~$450), respectively.

    On the other hand, the Honor 100 Pro comes in four configurations: 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 16 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 16 GB RAM + 512 GB storage, and 16 GB RAM + 1 TB storage. These variants are priced at 3,399 Yuan ($475), 3,699 Yuan ($525), 3,999 Yuan ($550), and 4,399 Yuan ($625), respectively.

    Both smartphones are available in color options such as Glass Black, Moon Shadow White, Monet Purple, and Butterfly Blue. The blue variant of the Honor 100 Pro features an attractive dual-tone design. The Honor 100 series is currently available for pre-orders in China, with sales scheduled to begin on December 1st. There is no information available yet regarding the global launch of the Honor 100 and 100 Pro.

  • Potential Global Launch of POCO M6 Pro 4G Expected, Seen on NBTC

    Potential Global Launch of POCO M6 Pro 4G Expected, Seen on NBTC

    POCO M6 Pro 4G Smartphone Granted Certification by NBTC

    POCO is gearing up for the imminent global launch of its latest M6 Pro 4G smartphone. Recent developments place the device beyond the borders of China as it secures certification from NBTC, a regulatory body headquartered in Thailand.

    POCO M6 Pro 4G Sighted at NBTC

    Recent activity within the IMDA certification database has revealed the presence of the POCO M6 Pro 4G alongside the Redmi Note 13 4G and a fresh Xiaomi Smart Band model. Identified by the model number 2312FPCA6G, inline with previous IMDA findings, the online records, unfortunately, lack detailed insights into the anticipated device’s design or specifications.

    Alleged Specifications

    In accordance with current information, expectations point towards LTE compatibility for the POCO M6 Pro 4G. Speculation further hints at a potential rebrand of the Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G model. Both gadgets have recently attained FCC approvals, with earlier leaks outlining the camera features of the POCO M6 Pro 4G. This includes a 64-megapixel primary camera on the rear, complemented by Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens.

    Trimmed Iteration of POCO M6 Pro 5G

    The title suggests that the POCO M6 Pro 4G could be a streamlined rendition of the POCO M6 Pro 5G model. Nevertheless, shared specifications are foreseen. The M6 Pro 5G boasts a towering 6.79-inch FHD+ screen with a 90Hz refresh rate. Fueling its core is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC, paired with a capacious 5,000mAh battery supporting 18W rapid charging.

    Final Remarks

    Anticipated for global release, the POCO M6 Pro 4G smartphone now bears the official stamp of approval from NBTC in Thailand. Although specifics regarding its composition and features remain undisclosed, whispers suggest LTE capability and a potential overlapped identity with the Redmi Note 13 Pro 4G model. Enthusiasts can bank on a robust photographic arsenal housing a 64-megapixel primary sensor with OIS. Positioned as a diluted counterpart of the POCO M6 Pro 5G, shared traits include a spacious screen and a potent battery with swift charging capabilities.

  • Teaser Reveals Key Features of Infinix Smart 8 HD, Set to Launch in India on December 8

    Teaser Reveals Key Features of Infinix Smart 8 HD, Set to Launch in India on December 8

    Infinix to Launch Budget Smartphone Smart 8 HD in India

    Infinix has announced that it will be launching a budget smartphone in India, called the Infinix Smart 8 HD. This smartphone is an upgraded version of the Smart 7 HD, which was launched in April this year. The brand recently unveiled the Smart 8 phone in Nigeria. Ahead of its official launch in India, Infinix has shared some details about the Smart 8 HD.

    Display and Design

    The Infinix Smart 8 HD will feature a 6.6-inch display with an HD+ resolution and a punch-hole cutout. It will offer a 90Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 500 nits. The smartphone will be available in four attractive colors: Crystal Green, Shiny Gold, Timber Black, and Galaxy White. The back panel will have a textured pattern and a squarish camera module. The device will sport three cameras, with one sensor featuring an LED ring light flash. It will have a flat frame and a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button. Additionally, the Smart 8 HD will come with UFS 2.2 storage and a Type-C charging port.

    Launch Date and Event

    The Infinix Smart 8 HD is scheduled to launch in India on December 8, Friday. More details about the smartphone will be revealed at the launch event.

    Specifications of Infinix Smart 7 HD

    As a reminder, the Infinix Smart 7 HD features a 6.6-inch HD+ 60Hz display. It is powered by a Spreadtrum SC9863A1 processor, coupled with 2GB of RAM. The device is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery. In terms of cameras, it boasts an 8MP rear camera with an AI lens and a 5MP front-facing camera for selfies.

    With the launch of the Infinix Smart 8 HD, the brand aims to provide a budget-friendly smartphone option to Indian consumers. Stay tuned for more updates on this upcoming device.

  • Take a Look at the Image of Realme GT5 Pro Retail Box

    Take a Look at the Image of Realme GT5 Pro Retail Box

    Realme has recently announced the camera specifications of its upcoming smartphone, the Realme GT5 Pro. Although an official launch date has not been specified, the company's Chief Marketing Officer Xu Qi Chase shared an image of the smartphone's retail box on social media, indicating that the launch is imminent.

    Realme GT5 Pro: A Sleek Design

    The Realme GT5 Pro comes in a stylish black box with a striking golden strip in the middle, showcasing the GT5 Pro branding. The design is sleek and sophisticated, adding to the overall appeal of the device.

    Unveiling the Camera Specs

    While Realme has not yet revealed many details about the device, previous teasers and leaks have provided us with some insights. One of the standout features of the Realme GT5 Pro is its periscope telephoto camera, making it the company's first smartphone to incorporate this technology. The device will utilize the IMX890 Sony lens for periscope telephoto shots, offering users up to 3x optical zoom and an impressive 120x digital zoom.

    In addition to the periscope telephoto camera, the GT5 Pro's rear camera setup will include a high-resolution 50-megapixel LYT-808 camera sensor. To capture wider shots, the device will also feature an 8-megapixel IMX355 ultra-wide lens. For stunning selfies, users can expect a 32-megapixel front-facing camera.

    Powerful Performance and Display

    Under the hood, the Realme GT5 Pro will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, ensuring smooth and efficient performance. To prevent overheating, the device will incorporate a 10,000mm² heat dissipation unit, allowing users to enjoy extended gaming or multimedia sessions without any interruptions.

    Furthermore, the smartphone will boast a BOE-customized curved-edge 6.78" 1.5K display, offering a visually immersive experience. With a brightness rate of 3,000 nits, users can expect vibrant and vivid visuals even in bright outdoor conditions.

    Anticipating the Release

    While an official launch date for the Realme GT5 Pro is yet to be announced, we can anticipate its arrival in the market soon. Realme continues to push the boundaries of smartphone technology, and the GT5 Pro is expected to be another impressive addition to their lineup.

    Stay tuned for more updates on the Realme GT5 Pro as we await its official release.

  • Honor Decides on IPO Strategy: Forges Independent Path, Secures Q3 Mobile Market Dominance after Split from Huawei

    Honor Decides on IPO Strategy: Forges Independent Path, Secures Q3 Mobile Market Dominance after Split from Huawei

    Honor Announces Preparation for IPO, Showcasing Growth and Success Post-Separation from Huawei

    Renowned handset maker, Honor, has made a significant move towards its evolution following its separation from Huawei Technologies. The company has announced its preparation for an initial public offering (IPO), a strategic decision prompted by the sale by Huawei in 2020 due to U.S. sanctions. This IPO is seen as the next pivotal step for Honor, building on its remarkable progress over the past three years.

    Strengthening Financial Foundation for Future Endeavors

    Honor is carefully preparing for its IPO, although it has not specified the exact time frame or location. The main objective is to attract diverse capital and further strengthen its financial foundation for future endeavors. This move will enable the company to continue its growth trajectory and solidify its market position.

    Impressive Performance Indicators

    Over the past three years, Honor has not only solidified its market position but has also showcased robust performance indicators, particularly in China and Europe. In the third quarter of this year, Honor emerged as the leader in handset shipments in China, selling an impressive 11.8 million units and securing the top spot. Last year, it ranked as the second-largest seller in China and the fifth-largest brand by sales in Europe in Q3. The company’s market share in China stood at a formidable 18% during the same period.

    Flourishing Post-Independence

    Since its independence from Huawei, Honor has flourished under a consortium of over 30 agents and dealers. This shift has allowed the company to operate autonomously, navigate the challenging tech landscape, and expand its global footprint. With rapid strategic and business growth, Honor has made significant improvements in corporate governance and management, enhancing its overall competitiveness and setting the stage for a successful IPO.

    Optimizing Shareholding Structure and Governance

    As part of its preparation steps, Honor is set to optimize its shareholding structure by inviting diversified capital that aligns with its future vision. The company will gradually adjust its board composition to meet the stringent standards expected of a listed company, emphasizing governance and regulatory compliance. These measures will ensure that Honor maintains its growth momentum and continues to thrive in the market.

    Remarkable Growth in Overseas Markets

    Celebrating its third-year anniversary post-independence, Honor has recorded nearly 200% sales growth in overseas markets. According to Counterpoint’s Q3 report, Honor has achieved remarkable growth in Europe, distinguishing itself as the only brand among the top five to achieve year-on-year growth. In the highly competitive Chinese market, Honor claims the throne in the foldable market and commands a significant overall market share, as stated in the Q3 analyst report.

    In conclusion, Honor's preparation for an IPO marks a significant milestone in its evolution post-separation from Huawei. The company's remarkable growth and success over the past three years, coupled with its focus on optimizing its shareholding structure and governance, position it for a successful future. With its strong market presence in China and Europe, Honor is poised to attract diverse capital and continue its upward trajectory in the global handset market.

  • Upcoming Release: Samsung Galaxy Xcover 7 Rugged Phone Expected to Launch in India Soon

    Upcoming Release: Samsung Galaxy Xcover 7 Rugged Phone Expected to Launch in India Soon

    Samsung Galaxy Xcover 7: A Rugged Phone for the Indian Market

    Recent reports have unveiled Samsung's plans to introduce a new rugged phone called the Galaxy Xcover 7. While the Xcover series has been available in other markets, such as Europe, it has yet to be launched in India. However, there are indications that the Xcover 7 could be Samsung's first rugged phone specifically designed for the Indian market.

    Galaxy Xcover 7 India Launch Expected

    According to recent leaks, the Galaxy Xcover 7 with the model code SM-G556B has been approved by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This regulatory approval suggests that the device will soon make its way to the Indian market.

    Specifications and Features

    The Geekbench listing of the Galaxy Xcover 7 has provided some insights into its specifications. The phone is expected to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6100 Plus chipset, accompanied by 8GB of RAM. It will also run on the latest Android 14 operating system with Samsung's OneUI interface.

    Leaked renders of the device reveal its ruggedized construction, featuring a waterdrop notch display on the front and a single rear camera with dual LED flash. Additionally, the Xcover 7 will come equipped with an Xcover physical button on the side, enabling users to launch their desired apps or utilize push-to-talk features and other functions.

    Rugged Design and Durability

    Similar to its predecessor, the Galaxy Xcover 7 will feature a user-replaceable rear panel. It is expected to be MIL-STD-810H-compliant, ensuring durability and resistance to extreme conditions. The phone will also have an IP68 rating, making it dustproof and water-resistant.

    Possible Resemblance to the Galaxy A55

    There have been speculations that the Galaxy Xcover 7 may share some similarities with the upcoming Galaxy A55, which bears the model number SM-A556B. Reports suggest that the Galaxy A55 will be equipped with the Exynos 1480 chipset.

    As Samsung gears up for the launch of the Galaxy Xcover 7 in India, consumers can anticipate a rugged phone that combines durability, performance, and useful features. With its rugged design and impressive specifications, the Galaxy Xcover 7 aims to cater to the needs of users who require a reliable smartphone built to withstand challenging environments.