Category: Tablets

  • Google’s Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New Features

    Google’s Version of Samsung Dex: First Look at New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is developing a desktop mode for Pixel devices, inspired by Samsung DeX.
    2. Android 15 introduced a developer preview of “desktop windowing” features for the Pixel Tablet.
    3. Android 16 refined these features, allowing a desktop-like experience with a taskbar and split-screen functionality.
    4. Users can access a quick menu for settings like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth while using the desktop interface.
    5. The desktop feature is still in development and may not be included in the stable release of Android 16.


    Samsung DeX has been a key highlight of Samsung smartphones for a while. It allows users to transform their mobile device into a desktop-like experience. Now, it looks like Google is inspired by this idea. Since the release of Android 14, they’ve been quietly developing their own desktop mode specifically for Pixel devices.

    Android 15 and Desktop Features

    With the launch of Android 15, Google introduced a developer preview of a “desktop windowing” feature aimed at the Pixel Tablet. By the time Android 16 came around, this feature had undergone significant refinement and is now referred to as “Enable desktop experience features.” Thanks to Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority, we have an early glimpse at how this feature operates in real life.

    Functionality of Android 16

    Rahman successfully got the desktop feature to work on a Pixel 8 Pro linked to a laptop. The interface resembles a traditional desktop layout with a taskbar at the bottom that includes a three-button navigation system on the right side. The taskbar displays recently used apps, and users can open multiple apps in a split-screen format, much like standard PCs.

    Pulling down from the top reveals a quick access menu. This menu includes common toggles for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, along with the ability to add or remove options. The battery icon is located at the upper right corner of the home screen, while the time sits on the top left. This design is very much akin to what you would expect from a desktop-style UI, which seems to be the main intention. Importantly, you can still operate your phone while the desktop window is open.

    Still in Development

    While the feature appears to be functional, it is important to note that it is not yet complete. Rahman mentions that it remains a work in progress and “most likely won’t be available in the upcoming stable release of Android 16.” Instead, it may debut in one of the quarterly updates for Android 16, according to his insights.

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  • Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4: Gaming Tablet with Long Battery Life

    Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4: Gaming Tablet with Long Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo Legion Y700 refresh will launch in China on May 8, 2025, likely renamed the Legion Tab Gen 4 for international markets.
    2. The Legion Tab Gen 4 offers impressive battery life, providing up to 14.8 hours of video playback on a single charge at 1080p resolution.
    3. The tablet features an upgraded display with a brightness of 600 nits and a resolution of 3040×1904 pixels, improving on the previous model’s specs.
    4. The new tablet has a larger battery capacity of 7,600 mAh and uses the more efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, potentially enhancing battery performance.
    5. Lenovo hints at a gaming handheld that may be an altered version of the Legion Tab Gen 4, with more details expected soon.


    The Lenovo Legion Y700 refresh is poised to make its debut in China on May 8, 2025, and it’s likely to be renamed the Legion Tab Gen 4 for international markets. Ahead of the launch in China, Lenovo has confirmed several key features of this new gaming tablet and has recently highlighted its impressive battery life.

    Impressive Battery Life

    According to a recent teaser posted on Weibo, Lenovo announced that the Legion Tab Gen 4 can provide up to 14.8 hours of video playback on a single charge. This figure was obtained from tests conducted at 1080p resolution with the volume set to level 7 and the screen brightness at 200 nits, the company stated.

    Enhanced Display Features

    In addition to its battery performance, the screen of the new Legion tablet has received an upgrade compared to its predecessor. It can now achieve a brightness of 600 nits, which is a significant improvement from the 500 nits display found on the Legion Tab Gen 3. Lenovo has also confirmed that the display of the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite gaming tablet features a higher resolution of 3040×1904 pixels, up from the 2560×1660 pixels resolution of the previous model.

    Comparing Battery Performance

    Returning to the topic of video playback battery life, the previous Legion gaming tablet (currently priced at $489.99 on Lenovo’s website) boasted an official rating of 16.06 hours. However, Lenovo did not mention the playback resolution, brightness, and volume settings for this particular test. It’s important to note that the Legion Tab Gen 4 is equipped with a more efficient system-on-chip, the Snapdragon 8 Elite, and has also seen an increase in battery capacity, from 6,550 mAh to 7,600 mAh.

    So, there’s a chance that the Legion Tab Gen 4 may surpass the previous gaming tablet in similar video playback tests. In related news, Lenovo has hinted at a gaming handheld, which might actually be the same tablet that has been slightly altered for accessory use. More information about the tablet could be unveiled soon, according to the company’s communications on Weibo (machine translated from Chinese).

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  • RedMagic Nova Gaming Tablet Falls Short in AnTuTu Rankings

    RedMagic Nova Gaming Tablet Falls Short in AnTuTu Rankings

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Snapdragon 8 Elite has reclaimed its top position in the flagship smartphone rankings by AnTuTu.
    2. The Dimensity 8400 continues to perform well in the mid-range smartphone category.
    3. The Oppo Pad 4 Pro achieved the highest score in the tablet performance rankings for April 2025, with a score of 2,849,493.
    4. The RedMagic Nova gaming tablet was absent from the rankings, likely due to not meeting the required 1,000 valid benchmark runs.
    5. The Vivo Pad 5 Pro follows the Oppo Pad 4 Pro in tablet rankings, scoring 2,640,803, and the remaining tablets feature last-generation flagship SoCs.


    AnTuTu has released its rankings for flagship and mid-range smartphones, with the Snapdragon 8 Elite reclaiming its top position. Meanwhile, the Dimensity 8400 continues to perform well in the mid-range category. Additionally, AnTuTu has also announced the best-performing tablets, and surprisingly, the RedMagic Nova did not secure the highest rank this time.

    Missing from the Rankings

    In fact, the gaming tablet was entirely absent from the list. This situation isn’t particularly unusual. The monthly AnTuTu rankings require devices to have a minimum of 1,000 valid benchmark runs to qualify, and it seems the RedMagic Nova did not meet this requirement.

    Top Performers

    Returning to the rankings, the newly launched Oppo Pad 4 Pro has achieved the highest score in the AnTuTu tablet performance rankings for April 2025. It is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, while the Vivo Pad 5 Pro follows closely behind, boasting the Dimensity 9400. Their average scores stand at 2,849,493 and 2,640,803, respectively.

    More Tablets in the Lineup

    The remaining tablets in the latest AnTuTu rankings consist of last-generation flagship system-on-chips (SoCs). Below is a summary of their performance:

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  • Oppo Pad SE Set to Launch as First Dimensity G-Series Tablet

    Oppo Pad SE Set to Launch as First Dimensity G-Series Tablet

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo “Pad SE” features the Helio G99 chipset and aims to be an affordable tablet.
    2. It will have an 11-inch LCD display and a 9,340mAh battery with 33W fast charging.
    3. Speculations suggest the “Dimensity G100” platform may just be a rebranding of the G99 chip.
    4. The Pad SE is expected to launch alongside the Enco Clip earbuds, a competitor to existing models.
    5. Both devices may debut with the Reno14 smartphone series, anticipated in late 2025.


    the upcoming Oppo “Pad SE” is said to be named for its affordable and tried-and-true internals, which features the well-known Helio G99 chipset.

    Display and Battery Details

    Recent leaks claim that the tablet will sport an 11-inch LCD screen and a substantial 9,340mAh battery supporting relatively quick 33W charging. Additionally, it suggests that the device will come equipped with a new “Dimensity G100” platform.

    Speculations on Launch

    Oppo may introduce the Pad SE as a world-first, despite its entry-level specifications. However, there is a possibility that the “G100” is merely a rebranding of the existing G99 rather than a true upgrade to the three-year-old chip technology.

    Accompanying Devices

    Regardless, the Pad SE is expected to launch alongside the Enco Clip, which might be Oppo’s response to the Huawei FreeClip or Nothing Ear (Open) buds, judging by the name.

    These two new gadgets could potentially debut at the same time as the more high-end Reno14 smartphone series, anticipated later in 2025.

    The Nothing Ear (Open) is currently available at a limited-time price of $129 on Amazon, making it an attractive option.

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  • Microsoft Surface Pro: Redesigned 2-in-1 with 12-Inch Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft will present new Surface devices on May 6, including ARM-powered models.
    2. A smaller Surface Pro model with a 12-inch display is being introduced, reminiscent of the Surface Pro 3.
    3. The Surface Pro 12″ will not have a Surface Connect port and will include two USB 3.2 Type-C ports instead.
    4. The device will feature soldered flash storage options of 256 GB and 512 GB, with 16 GB of RAM and a Snapdragon X Plus chipset.
    5. The new Surface Keyboard for the 2-in-1 may lack magnets for a raised angle, limiting its usage to flat surfaces.


    Roland Quandt has gathered a wealth of information regarding Microsoft’s upcoming 2-in-1 device. The leaker has not only disclosed several specifications for the product but has also provided many images that look official. To summarize, Microsoft revealed earlier this week that they will present new Surface devices on May 6, following the launch of Intel Lunar Lake models of the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, along with a Surface USB4 Dock in January (currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon).

    Upcoming ARM-Powered Models

    This time around, it seems Microsoft is set to refresh its consumer lineup with at least two new models powered by ARM technology. According to previous rumors, one of these will be a smaller version of the Surface Pro, and Quandt has indicated it will feature a 12-inch display housed within a 274 x 190 x 7.8 mm body. This effectively marks a return to the display size of the Surface Pro 3. The Surface Pro 12″—as Microsoft refers to it in leaked promotional content—will have several compromises compared to the current Surface Pro 11.

    Notable Changes in Specifications

    For instance, the Surface Pro 12″ lacks a Surface Connect port. Instead, Microsoft has opted for two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, but there will be no power adapter included in the package. Moreover, it appears that Microsoft has transitioned to soldered flash storage, which will be available in 256 GB and 512 GB options, combined with 16 GB of RAM and a Snapdragon X Plus chipset.

    Recent benchmark leaks suggest that the Snapdragon chip could be Qualcomm’s X1P-42-100 model, rather than the X1P-64-100 that is utilized in the Surface Pro 11. Additionally, leaked marketing materials hint that the new Surface Keyboard for this 2-in-1 lacks the magnets needed for it to be positioned at a raised angle. Therefore, it might only be usable on a flat surface, similar to keyboard accessories made for rival tablets like the Galaxy Tab S series. Unfortunately, the price remains unknown at this point.

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  • Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra: The New Name for Pad 7 Max?

    Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra: The New Name for Pad 7 Max?

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is likely to name its new tablet the Pad 7 Ultra instead of Pad 7 Max, as indicated by recent certifications.
    2. The tablet’s model number 25032RP42C has been registered with Bluetooth SIG and 3C, suggesting imminent market release and support for 120W fast wired charging.
    3. The Pad 7 Ultra is expected to be the flagship model in the Pad 7 series, positioned above the standard Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro.
    4. Anticipated features include a 14-inch OLED screen with slim bezels and a centered hole-punch cutout, although many specifications remain unknown.
    5. The Pad 7 Ultra may build on the features of the Pad 6 Max, potentially including a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, 144Hz display, quad-speaker system, and reverse charging, but these are not yet confirmed.


    Xiaomi seems to be gearing up to introduce a new tablet in its Pad 7 series, but it might not be named the Pad 7 Max as previously thought. Recent certification from Bluetooth SIG hints that the new device could be called the Pad 7 Ultra instead.

    Certification Details

    The tablet has been registered under the model number 25032RP42C in the Bluetooth SIG database, which is usually one of the last steps before a product hits the market. This same model number was also found on China’s 3C certification site, indicating support for 120W fast wired charging.

    What’s Coming?

    The switch from “Max” to “Ultra” could just be a branding decision and not imply a change in intentions. So far, leaks and speculations suggest that this model is likely to be the flagship version in the Pad 7 lineup, positioned above both the standard Pad 7 and the Pad 7 Pro.

    It is expected to feature a 14-inch OLED screen with slim bezels and a centered hole-punch cutout. Unfortunately, many other specifications are still unknown at this point.

    Potential Features

    If Xiaomi is sticking to the strategy from last year’s releases, the Pad 7 Ultra might enhance what was offered by the Pad 6 Max. The previous model came equipped with a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, a 14-inch 2.8K LCD display with a refresh rate of 144Hz, HDR10+ support, and a battery capacity exceeding 10,000mAh.

    The Pad 6 Max also included a quad-speaker system, dual rear cameras, and reverse charging capabilities.

    While none of these features are officially confirmed for the new model, the accumulation of certifications suggests that Xiaomi could announce the Pad 7 Ultra soon.

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  • Does Samsung Care About Fans? Galaxy Tab S10 FE Questions Loyalty

    Does Samsung Care About Fans? Galaxy Tab S10 FE Questions Loyalty

    Key Takeaways

    1. Affordable Price: The Galaxy Tab S10 FE offers a budget-friendly starting price of $499, making it accessible compared to higher-end models.

    2. Decent Display and Battery: It features a bright IPS display, good color quality, and an 8,000mAh battery that provides reasonable battery life.

    3. Inclusion of S Pen: The tablet comes with an S Pen included at no extra cost, unlike many competing brands.

    4. Performance Limitations: The device is equipped with an Exynos 1580 chip, which is less powerful than those in similarly priced competitors, leading to potential performance issues.

    5. Bloatware Concerns: It includes pre-installed third-party apps that cannot be removed, which may frustrate users looking for a cleaner experience.


    A tablet like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE is a clever idea in theory. It leaves out some of the nice features that very high-end tablets, such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, have. In exchange, it comes at a lower price, making it pleasing for many.

    Budget-Friendly Performance

    Samsung sticks to this strategy with the Galaxy Tab S10 FE, which even has some benefits compared to its pricier counterparts. It comes with an IPS display that, while not top-tier, is bright, shows good colors, and avoids flickering issues at lower brightness levels.

    Moreover, the more affordable Galaxy Tab S10 FE (starting at $499 on Amazon) features decent stereo speakers, a sleek aluminum body, and an 8,000mAh battery that offers reasonable battery life. Plus, an S Pen is included, while other brands often charge extra for one.

    Limitations of the Device

    So, everything seems fine, right? Sadly, Samsung has cut corners on the SoC, equipping the Galaxy Tab S10 FE with an Exynos 1580. This chip is also found in the Galaxy A56, which means it lacks the performance of higher-end devices. Competing tablets like Apple’s iPad Air 11 and the Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro, which are similarly priced, come with much better chipsets, so Samsung falls short here. Users might notice issues like stuttering in some games or the absence of ray tracing support.

    Mixed Bag of Features

    The Galaxy Tab S10 FE represents a blend of strengths and weaknesses, evident in its promise of 7 years of software updates mixed with pre-installed third-party apps (often called bloatware). Some Samsung applications are not removable, which can be frustrating if users prefer alternatives.

    In summary, the idea behind the Galaxy Tab S10 FE doesn’t fully succeed. It’s meant to be a “thank you” to Samsung’s dedicated fans and a solid value option, but many competing tablets are significantly better in this area.

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  • Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 vs. iPad Mini: Gaming Tablet Review

    Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 vs. iPad Mini: Gaming Tablet Review

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo has not confirmed a release date for the Legion Tab Gen 4, also known as Legion Y700 4th Generation in China.
    2. The tablet features an 8.8-inch display with 3K resolution and a 165 Hz refresh rate, aimed at competing with the Apple iPad mini.
    3. It is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset for high performance in media consumption and gaming.
    4. Lenovo teased a first-party accessory that may enhance the tablet’s gaming capabilities, featuring RGB lighting, a 3.5 mm jack, and a USB Type-C port.
    5. More details about the tablet and the accessory are expected to be revealed soon by Lenovo.


    The Legion Tab Gen 4 doesn’t have a confirmed release date yet. Still, Lenovo is keeping the excitement alive by teasing the new tablet on Chinese social media platforms. In China, the company calls this tablet the Legion Y700 4th Generation or Legion Tablet Y700 4th Generation. It’s worth noting that the Y700 was re-branded as Legion Tab in previous versions.

    Competing with the Best

    Lenovo sees its latest 8.8-inch tablet as a better choice compared to other small tablets, such as the Apple iPad mini (currently priced at $489 on Amazon). After looking at the display specs of both devices, Lenovo has shared a short video showcasing the Legion Tab Gen 4’s advantages for media consumption and gaming. In the video, Lenovo emphasizes that this new compact tablet will feature a 3K resolution and a 165 Hz refresh rate, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, ensuring top-notch performance.

    Accessory Tease

    On another note, Lenovo has teased a first-party accessory that could turn the tablet into a sort of gaming handheld device. However, the company has only shown a quick sneak peek of this accessory, which includes RGB lighting on the front, along with a 3.5 mm jack and a USB Type-C port located at the bottom. More details about both the tablet and its gaming accessory are expected to be unveiled soon by Lenovo.

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  • Xiaomi Pad 7 Max: Rumored OLED Tablet Name Change Leak

    Xiaomi Pad 7 Max: Rumored OLED Tablet Name Change Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi launched the Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro six months ago, with global availability starting in March.
    2. A new model, likely named Pad 7 Ultra, is expected to feature a 14-inch display and follow competitors’ naming trends.
    3. The Pad 7 Ultra has received certification from Bluetooth SIG, indicating its impending release.
    4. The tablet is linked to model number 25032RP42C and is expected to support 120 W wired charging.
    5. Currently, only a Chinese version of the Pad 7 Ultra is confirmed, with no global release date announced yet.


    Over six months has gone since Xiaomi first launched the Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro. However, Xiaomi waited until March to make the Pad 7 Pro and its smaller version available globally (curr. $499.99 on Amazon). We might not have to wait much longer for Xiaomi to introduce a third option in the Pad 7 lineup.

    New Developments

    So far, this third model has been referred to as the Pad 7 Max, mainly because it was expected to come with a 14-inch display, similar to the Pad 6 Max that was released in 2023. Nevertheless, a recent certification listing indicates that Xiaomi might be following the lead of competitors like Samsung, which uses an ‘Ultra’ name for its bigger tablet offerings.

    Certification Insights

    As shown in the image below, Xiaomi has obtained approval from the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) for the Pad 7 Ultra, rather than the Pad 7 Max. Additionally, this listing links the Pad 7 Ultra to the model number 25032RP42C, which was spotted a few months back at the 3C in China, featuring 120 W wired charging capabilities.

    At this point, there is no indication that this tablet will be available globally to rival the iPad Pro 13 and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra or Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra. For now, only a Chinese version has surfaced online, similar to the Vivo Pad5 Pro and Oppo Pad 4 Pro which were officially launched last month. Currently, it is thought that the Pad 7 Ultra will be equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and a 14-inch OLED display.

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  • Order Boox Tab X C: Color E-Ink Android Tablet Available Now

    Order Boox Tab X C: Color E-Ink Android Tablet Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Boox Tab X C is priced at $819 for US customers and $759 when ordered from Hong Kong, with import duties not included for the latter.
    2. It features a 13.3-inch Kaleido 3 e-ink display with a resolution of 1600 x 1200 pixels and enhanced black and white resolution of 3200 x 2400 pixels.
    3. The tablet supports the InkSpire stylus with 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity and has 128GB of internal storage.
    4. It runs on Android 13, weighs 22 oz, is 0.2 inches thick, and includes connectivity options like WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0.
    5. An alternative option is the more compact and affordable Note Air 4 C available on Amazon.


    The Boox Tab X C is now ready for buying. You can find it for order at Boox’s main online store for customers in the US, but it’s not yet in stock for those in Europe. The price is $819, and it will be shipped straight from the US starting on May 13. If you choose to order it from Hong Kong, there’s a lower price of $759, but keep in mind that any import duties are not included and will need to be paid separately.

    Specs and Features

    The Boox Tab X C is an Android tablet featuring an e-ink display. It has a 13.3-inch Kaleido 3 panel capable of showing 4096 colors, with a resolution of 1600 x 1200 pixels. For black and white content, the resolution can go up to 3200 x 2400 pixels, offering double the pixel density.

    Accessories and Performance

    This tablet supports the InkSpire stylus, which has 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity. It comes with 128GB of internal storage and operates on Android 13, allowing access to a wide range of applications. Weighing in at 22 oz and measuring about 0.2 inches thick, it also includes two speakers, a microphone, and a 5,500mAh battery. Furthermore, the device supports WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.

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