Category: Phones

  • Limited-Edition Galaxy Z Flip 5: Samsung and Maison Margiela Reunite

    Limited-Edition Galaxy Z Flip 5: Samsung and Maison Margiela Reunite

    Samsung has recently launched a limited-edition version of the Galaxy Z Flip 5 in collaboration with high-end fashion house Maison Margiela. This is the second time the two companies have partnered, with the first collaboration being the Galaxy Z Flip 4 Maison Margiela Edition.

    Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition Overview

    The Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition features a unique design element that sets it apart from the regular version. It has a semi-transparent back panel that allows users to see the inner workings of the phone. This design is inspired by Maison Margiela's signature deconstructed aesthetic. On the semi-transparent back, the phone displays Maison Margiela's iconic jacket design. Additionally, the device comes bundled with two cases: the Flap Leather Case and the Flipsuit Case.

    Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition Flap Leather Case

    The Flap Leather Case showcases the craftsmanship of an atelier through its natural black leather and woven fabric design. It also features a genuine fabric label. When the phone is opened, the case reveals a pocket pattern, and when closed, it hides it.

    Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition Flipsuit Case

    The Flipsuit Case comes with two NFC-based cards that add a unique touch to the device. One card has a paint splatter design, while the other has a silver plate. Both cards display Maison Margiela's iconic numbering design. Switching to any of these cards also changes the device's theme to match the chosen pattern.

    The Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition also includes a special theme and two wallpapers: Stitches and Trompe-L'oeil. The Stitches wallpaper showcases handwoven stitches on the cover and inner screens, while the Trompe-L'oeil wallpaper reveals the inner workings of a jacket.

    The attention to detail extends beyond the phone itself to its packaging. The retail box is wrapped in a paper-based woven book cloth fabric, adding to the luxurious feel of the limited-edition device. The box also contains special in-box contents.

    Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition Retail Box

    Inside the retail box, customers will find a USB Type-C to Type-C Cable and a 25W charger. It's worth noting that these accessories are not included with the standard Z Flip 5. As for the specifications of the phone itself, they remain largely similar to the regular model.

    Price and Availability

    The limited-edition Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition is currently available in China, Hong Kong, and South Korea. It comes with a generous 512GB storage capacity. In South Korea, the phone is priced at KRW 2,497,000 ($1,923) and can be purchased through a lottery system on Samsung.com.

    South Korean customers who wish to own this exclusive device can apply through Samsung's website from 9 AM to 5 PM on November 30. The lucky winners will be notified on December 1, 2023, at 9 AM.

    For those interested in seeing the phone's design and features firsthand, Samsung Gangnam and Samsung Store Hongdae in South Korea will be showcasing the Galaxy Z Flip 5 Maison Margiela Edition starting from November 23.

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  • Canalys predicts global smartphone market to rebound in 2024

    Canalys predicts global smartphone market to rebound in 2024

    Global Smartphone Market Shows Signs of Recovery in 2024

    According to a report by Canalys, the global smartphone market is expected to show signs of recovery in 2024, with a projected year-over-year drop of only 5% in 2023. This stabilization is primarily attributed to the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, which are expected to return to growth at rates of 9%, 3%, and 2% respectively in 2023.

    Positive Outlook Amidst Challenges

    Although smartphone shipments still remain over 20% below their peak in 2017, there is a silver lining. Consumers are now placing more value on their devices, with average selling prices exceeding US$440 (~Rs 36,600) as compared to US$332 in 2017.

    Emerging Markets as Catalysts for Growth

    Emerging markets, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, are projected to be the primary catalysts for the growth of the smartphone market. It is estimated that 33% of all new smartphones shipped in 2024 will be destined for this region.

    Optimistic Projections for the Future

    Canalys predicts that smartphone shipments may grow by 4% and reach 1.17 billion units in 2024. Furthermore, the global market is expected to ship 1.25 billion units in 2027, achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.6% from 2023 to 2027.

    Regional Variances

    While North America is the only region expected to experience a decline in smartphone shipments in 2024, with a projected 6% drop, other key markets are forecasted to grow. The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to grow by 6%, while the Middle East and Africa are projected to grow by 7% and 5% respectively.

    In conclusion, the global smartphone market is poised for recovery in 2024, with emerging markets and increased consumer value driving growth. Despite the challenges faced, the market is expected to rebound and experience steady growth in the coming years.

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  • Unveiling Oppo Reno 11: With Dimensity 8200 Chip, Sony LYT-600 Camera, Curved Display, and More

    Unveiling Oppo Reno 11: With Dimensity 8200 Chip, Sony LYT-600 Camera, Curved Display, and More

    Introduction of Oppo Reno 11 Series in China

    Today, Oppo has officially introduced the Reno 11 series in China. This lineup consists of two smartphones – the Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro, alongside a cost-effective tablet named Oppo Pad Air 2. While the smartphones showcase a slightly modified design, enhanced cameras, and more robust processors, most other features remain consistent.

    Overview of Oppo Reno 11 Specifications

    The Oppo Reno 11 offers a 6.7-inch curved OLED screen featuring a 2412 x 1080 pixels resolution (FHD+), 394 PPI, and a 120Hz refresh rate. The centrally located punch-hole 10-bit HDR10+ display supports up to 2160Hz PWM dimming, 950 nits local peak brightness, and a 240Hz touch sampling rate.

    Running under the hood is a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chipset coupled with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. It operates on ColorOS 14 based on Android 14, marking it as one of the pioneering devices shipping with Oppo’s latest mobile software.

    Regarding its imaging capabilities, the Reno 11 is equipped with a triple rear camera setup comprising an OIS-enhanced 50MP Sony LYT-600 main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 32MP IMX709 2x telephoto camera. For selfies and video calls, it features a 32MP Sony IMX709 sensor on the front. Oppo asserts that the camera hardware is supported by top-tier image processing akin to the flagship Find series.

    In the connectivity department, the Reno 11 includes dual SIM support, 5G, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, GNSS, NFC, and USB Type-C. Additionally, the device boasts an in-display fingerprint reader for biometric security.

    To sustain power, it houses a 4,800mAh battery and is compatible with 67W SuperVOOC wired charging technology.

    Pricing and Availability Details

    In China, the Oppo Reno 11 is available in three different configurations:

    • 8GB RAM + 256GB storage: ¥2,499 (~$350)
    • 12GB RAM + 256GB storage: ¥2,799 (~$395)
    • 12GB RAM + 512GB storage: ¥2,999 (~$420)

    The smartphone is offered in Obsidian Black, Fluorite Blue, and Moonstone colors. It is presently open for pre-orders and is set to hit the shelves starting from November 25. Early purchasers will also be entitled to a complimentary battery replacement within the initial four years of acquisition.

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  • Introducing Oppo Reno 11 Pro: Featuring SD8+ Gen 1 Chip, 1.5K Curved Display, 80W Charging, and More

    Introducing Oppo Reno 11 Pro: Featuring SD8+ Gen 1 Chip, 1.5K Curved Display, 80W Charging, and More

    The Oppo Reno 11 series was officially launched in China today, along with the introduction of the Oppo Pad Air 2, a budget tablet. The Reno 11 lineup consists of two models, the Reno 11 and the Reno 11 Pro. These devices feature a slightly modified design, more powerful processors, and improved cameras compared to their predecessors.

    Oppo Reno 11 Pro Specifications

    Let's take a closer look at the Oppo Reno 11 Pro in this article. For information about the standard Reno 11, please refer to our coverage on the same.

    The Oppo Reno 11 Pro is equipped with a 6.74-inch curved OLED display, boasting a resolution of 2772 x 1240 pixels (1.5K), a pixel density of 450 PPI, and a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen features a centered punch hole design and supports HDR10+, 2160Hz PWM dimming, a 240Hz touch sampling rate, and a peak brightness level of 1600 nits.

    Under the hood, the Reno 11 Pro is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chip, coupled with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. It is worth noting that this smartphone is the first device, other than the Reno 11, to come with the latest ColorOS 14 based on Android 14.

    In terms of photography capabilities, the Reno 11 Pro sports a triple camera setup on the rear, which includes a 50MP Sony IMX890 primary sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 32MP Sony IMX709 2x telephoto snapper. The front-facing camera, with a 32MP resolution, utilizes the same sensor as the zoom camera. These cameras are said to offer flagship-level image processing, similar to the Find X series.

    Other notable features of the Reno 11 Pro include dual stereo speakers, an x-axis linear vibration motor, and an in-display fingerprint sensor. On the connectivity front, it offers dual SIM support, 5G connectivity, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, GNSS, NFC, and USB Type-C.

    The smartphone is backed by a 4,700mAh battery and supports 80W SuperVOOC fast charging.

    Oppo Reno 11 Pro Price

    In China, the Oppo Reno 11 Pro will be available for purchase starting from December 1. Here are the price tags for the different variants:

    • 12GB + 256GB: ¥3,499 (~$495)
    • 12GB + 512GB: ¥3,799 (~$535)

    The Reno 11 Pro comes in three color options: Obsidian Black, Turquoise Green, and Moonstone. Customers who pre-order the device will receive a free battery replacement within the first four years of purchase.

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  • OnePlus 12 rumored to sport a wooden-textured back, reminiscent of the OnePlus One

    OnePlus 12 rumored to sport a wooden-textured back, reminiscent of the OnePlus One

    The OnePlus 12 5G is set to launch in China on December 4th, followed by a global release in January. OnePlus has always been known for its innovative designs, and it seems like the OnePlus 12 will continue that trend.

    A Unique Texture

    According to the Digital Chat Station on Weibo, there will be a variant of the OnePlus 12 with a wood grain texture on the back. This is an interesting choice, as OnePlus has previously experimented with different textures for its phone backs.

    However, the image provided is not very clear, so it's hard to determine the exact look of the wood grain texture. It's possible that the confusion is due to the image quality.

    A Nod to the Past

    The decision to use wood for the OnePlus 12's back may be a homage to the company's first model, the OnePlus One. The OnePlus One featured wood texture covers and even detachable backs for certain models. This move could be a way for OnePlus to pay tribute to its roots and remind users of its early days.

    Camera Details

    While the image of the OnePlus 12's back is not fully visible, real-world images of the device have surfaced. However, there hasn't been a clear image showing the camera bump yet.

    It is expected that the OnePlus 12 will have a camera array that includes primary, periscope, and telephoto sensors. OnePlus has announced that the primary camera will feature a Sony LYT-808 sensor, which is a variant of the OnePlus Open's LYT-T808 camera.

    Additionally, reports suggest that the secondary camera will be a 64MP periscope zoom with optical image stabilization (OIS). This camera will have a 1/2-inch sensor and an f/2.6 aperture.

    More Information to Come

    As the release of the OnePlus 12 draws near, leaks and official announcements from OnePlus are giving us a clearer picture of what to expect from the device. The wood grain texture on the back adds a unique touch to the phone's design, while the camera specifications promise high-quality photography capabilities.

    Fans of OnePlus can look forward to the launch of the OnePlus 12 in China next month, with a global release to follow in January.

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  • Redmi K70e, K70, and K70 Pro slated for November 29 release

    Redmi K70e, K70, and K70 Pro slated for November 29 release

    Redmi K70 series launch date

    In the upcoming week, several brands are preparing to host launch events in China, including Meizu, Huawei, Realme, and Redmi. The Redmi K70 series is one of the highly anticipated announcements scheduled for next week. The Xiaomi sub-brand has officially confirmed that the Redmi K70 series will be unveiled at 7 pm (local time) on November 29.

    Redmi K70 lineup: What to expect?

    Last year in December, Redmi introduced three models – the Redmi K60e, the Redmi K60, and the Redmi K60 Pro. These devices were powered by the Dimensity 8200-Ultra, the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipsets, respectively.

    For the upcoming Redmi K70 series, the K60 lineup will be succeeded by three models: the Redmi K70e, the Redmi K70, and the Redmi K70 Pro. These devices are expected to feature the Dimensity 8300-Ultra, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipsets, respectively.

    Specifications of Redmi K70e

    While the complete details of the Redmi K70 and K70 Pro are yet to be revealed, the specifications of the K70e have already surfaced. The Redmi K70e is expected to come with a 6.67-inch OLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It will offer up to 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The device will be powered by a 5,500mAh battery with 90W fast charging support.

    In terms of optics, the K70e will feature a triple camera setup on the back, consisting of a 64-megapixel main camera with OIS, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro lens. On the front, there will be a 16-megapixel selfie camera. The device will have a plastic frame.

    Redmi K70 and K70 Pro: Expected features

    The Redmi K70 and K70 Pro are expected to come with the same-sized 120Hz OLED panels but with higher 2K resolution support. Both models are rumored to feature a 50-megapixel OmniVision camera with OIS support. The devices will have a metallic frame and will support 120W fast charging.

    The Redmi K70 could be equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, while the Pro edition might come with a slightly larger 5,120mAh battery. Both devices will run on Android 14 and HyperOS.

    Global release and rebranding

    It is unlikely that the Redmi K70 series will be released in the global market. Instead, some of these devices may be rebranded as the Poco F6 series models. The F6 and F6 Pro, expected to debut in Q1 2024, could potentially be rebadged versions of the K70e and K70, respectively.

    With the launch event just around the corner, fans are eagerly waiting to get more information about the Redmi K70 series. Stay tuned for updates on pricing and availability details.

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  • Potential Launch Date for Vivo X100s with Flat Display Leaked

    Potential Launch Date for Vivo X100s with Flat Display Leaked

    Earlier this month, Vivo unveiled the Dimensity 9300-powered Vivo X100 and X100 Pro smartphones in China. Prior to the launch of the Vivo X100 series, there were reports that the company would also announce a flat-display version of the Vivo X100 as well as the Vivo X100 Pro+. However, these devices were not announced alongside the X100 and X100 Pro. A new leak, courtesy of tipster Digital Chat Station, has revealed when to expect the X100’s flat display variant.

    Vivo X100s Expected to Debut Alongside X100 Pro

    Recent reports have revealed that Vivo will announce the Vivo X100 Pro+ in April 2024. Some reports have claimed that the company may call it the X100 Ultra instead of the Pro+. While the exact name of the device is yet to be determined, DCS’s latest leak claims that a new device named the Vivo X100s is tentatively scheduled to debut alongside the X100 Pro.

    Flat-Screen Version of Vivo X100

    The Vivo X100s will be a flat-screen version of the regular Vivo X100, which features a curved-edge OLED panel. Apart from featuring a different display, all the other specifications of the X100s are expected to remain identical to the X100. Here is a look at the specifications and price of the X100.

    Vivo X100 Specifications and Price

    The Vivo X100 features a 6.78-inch curved-OLED LTPO display with a 1.5K resolution (2800 x 1260 pixels), a 120Hz refresh rate, 2160Hz PWM dimming, a brightness of 3000 nits, and an optical in-screen fingerprint scanner. It is powered by the Dimensity 9300 chipset, with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. The front camera is a 32-megapixel Samsung GD2, and the device runs on Android 14 with OriginOS 4.

    The rear camera setup includes a 50MP Sony IMX920 VCS main camera with OIS, a 50MP Samsung JN1 ultra-wide lens with a 150-degree field of view, and a 64MP OmniVision OV64B periscope lens with a 70mm telephoto capability and OIS. The Vivo X100 integrates the Vivo V2 imaging system and is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery supporting 120W fast charging.

    Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C (USB 3.2), NFC, an IR blaster, and an X-axis linear motor. The device has dual stereo speakers and holds an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. In terms of dimensions, the device measures 164.05 x 75.19 x 8.49mm and weighs 206 grams, while the orange variant has a slightly different weight at 202 grams and thickness at 8.74mm.

    Pricing and Availability

    The pricing for the Vivo X100 varies across configurations:

    • 12GB+256GB at 3,999 Yuan (~$560)
    • 16GB+256GB at 4,299 Yuan (~$601)
    • 16GB+512GB at 4,599 Yuan (~$643)
    • 16GB+1TB at 4,999 Yuan (~$699)
    • 16GB (LPDDR5T)+1TB at 5,099 Yuan (~$713)

    The color options include Chenye Black, Moonlight White, Star Trail Blue, and Sunset Orange with a leather back.

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  • Here’s the launch date for the successor of Honor 80 GT, the Honor 90 GT.

    Here’s the launch date for the successor of Honor 80 GT, the Honor 90 GT.

    In December 2022, Honor announced the release of the Honor G80 GT smartphone in China, following the launch of the Honor 80 series in November. Now, it seems that Honor is already working on its next GT-series phone for the Chinese market, the Honor 90 GT. Let's take a closer look at when this new device is expected to debut and what specifications we can anticipate.

    Honor 90 GT Launch Date

    According to a tipster from China, the Honor 90 GT is set to be unveiled by the end of December. While this is exciting news for Honor fans, unfortunately, the leaker did not provide any details about the specifications of the device. We will have to wait for official announcements to learn more about what the Honor 90 GT has to offer.

    Honor 80 GT Recap

    Before we delve into the Honor 90 GT, let's briefly recall the Honor 80 GT. This flagship phone was powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip, similar to the Honor 80 Pro. Both devices shared the same chipset, battery, and charging capabilities. However, there were some differences in terms of design and camera setup. The Honor 80 Pro boasted a quad-curved 6.78-inch OLED panel, a 50-megapixel dual-selfie camera setup, and a 160-megapixel triple rear camera. On the other hand, the Honor 80 GT featured a flat display, a 16-megapixel front camera, and 54-megapixel triple rear cameras.

    Honor 90 GT Specifications: What to Expect?

    While specific details about the Honor 90 GT remain unknown, it is possible that the device will share some similarities with the Honor 90 Pro. One potential difference could be the display, with the 90 GT potentially featuring a flat OLED screen instead of a curved-edge 6.78-inch OLED panel. Additionally, the front-facing camera may also be a single lens rather than a dual setup.

    As for the internals, the Honor 90 GT is expected to utilize the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, just like its Pro counterpart. The device is also rumored to pack a 5,000mAh battery with 90W fast charging support. Furthermore, there is speculation that the top variant of the 90 GT may offer impressive specifications such as 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage.

    Keep in Mind

    It is important to note that the specifications mentioned here for the Honor 90 GT are based on assumptions and rumors. As with any leaked information, it is advisable to approach it with caution and maintain a degree of skepticism. The official details will be revealed by Honor when the device is officially launched.

    In conclusion, Honor is gearing up to introduce the Honor 90 GT smartphone in China by the end of December. While the exact specifications of the device are still unknown, it is expected to share similarities with the Honor 90 Pro in terms of design and performance. As we eagerly await the official unveiling, it is important to take any leaked information with a grain of salt.

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  • Google addresses user concerns about on-screen impressions of inner components on Pixel 8 Pro

    Google addresses user concerns about on-screen impressions of inner components on Pixel 8 Pro

    Google Pixel 8 Pro Owners Report Impressions on Device Screens

    Some Google Pixel 8 Pro owners have recently noticed circular bumps on their device screens, which are believed to be impressions from inner components. These bumps are only visible under specific lighting conditions and do not affect the performance or durability of the device, according to Google.

    Google Acknowledges the Issue

    In response to user concerns, Google has released a statement acknowledging the presence of these impressions. The company assures users that these bumps are a normal occurrence and should not cause any functional issues with the Pixel 8 Pro. A Google spokesperson explained that the new display on the device may show these impressions when the screen is turned off and not in use, particularly in specific lighting conditions.

    Possible Cause of the Impressions

    Google suggests that the uneven surface on which the display rests could be a contributing factor to the impressions. Teardowns of the device have also supported this theory. While the circular bumps do not currently affect the touch functionality or image quality of the device, some owners are concerned about potential deterioration over time.

    Warranty and Replacement Options

    Google wants to reassure users that the original warranty for the Pixel 8 Pro remains valid for one year. In response to the reported issue, some owners have reached out to Google for replacements. However, it is worth noting that replacement devices may also have the same circular bumps. This has led some users to request an extended warranty to cover any potential deterioration of the display over time.

    In conclusion, while some Google Pixel 8 Pro owners have raised concerns about impressions from inner components on their device screens, Google assures users that these bumps have no impact on the device's performance or durability. The company believes that the uneven surface on which the display rests may contribute to these impressions. Users are encouraged to reach out to Google for replacements if they are unsatisfied, though replacement devices may still have the same circular bumps. Google maintains that the original warranty remains valid for one year and there is no need for concern regarding the functionality of the device.

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  • Ahead of its global launch, the POCO F6 5G has been discovered on the IMDA certification website.

    Ahead of its global launch, the POCO F6 5G has been discovered on the IMDA certification website.

    Poco F6 Pro Receives IMDA Certification, Launching in Singapore

    In the coming months, Redmi is preparing to release its highly anticipated Redmi 70 series smartphones in the Chinese market. However, some of these devices are expected to make their way to international markets under the POCO brand. Recently, the Poco F6 5G, believed to be a rebranded version of the Redmi K70e, was certified by the IMDA database. Now, the Poco F6 Pro has also surfaced on the IMDA certification database.

    The alleged POCO F6 Pro with the model number 23113RKC6G was discovered by TheTechoutlook on the IMDA certification platform. This model number aligns with a previous leak that suggested it belongs to the global variant of the POCO F6 Pro. While the listing does not provide any specific details about the phone’s specifications, it does confirm that the device will be launched in Singapore.

    Expected Specs for Poco F6 Pro/Redmi K70

    According to expectations, the Redmi K70 is rumored to feature a Full HD+ AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and support for HDR10+. Under the hood, the device is likely to be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, accompanied by an Adreno GPU. It is expected to run on MIUI 14, based on the latest Android 14 operating system. Notably, there have been rumors suggesting that the device could support fast charging up to 90W.

    As of now, these specifications are not officially confirmed by the company, and further details about the Poco F6 Pro and Redmi K70 are yet to be revealed. Fans and tech enthusiasts eagerly await the official announcement from Redmi regarding the launch of these highly anticipated smartphones.

    Conclusion

    With the IMDA certification of the Poco F6 Pro, it becomes evident that the device will soon make its way to the Singaporean market. As the launch date approaches, more information about the phone’s specifications and features is expected to surface. Until then, fans will have to wait patiently for Redmi’s official announcement to get a better understanding of what the Poco F6 Pro and Redmi K70 have to offer.

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