Tag: iPhone 15

  • Subnautica: Below Zero Launches on Android and iOS with Discount

    Subnautica: Below Zero Launches on Android and iOS with Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Subnautica: Below Zero launches on Android and iOS on March 10, 2026, marking its first availability on mobile devices.
    2. The mobile versions feature a new interface for touch controls and MFi support for mobile game controllers.
    3. Save data will be stored locally and synced to the cloud, allowing seamless progress across different devices.
    4. The game is priced at $10, with a 10% preorder discount available.
    5. Subnautica: Below Zero offers an open-world exploration experience with base building and crafting mechanics, and has a 91% rating on OpenCritic for PC and console versions.


    Following the debut of its prequel on mobile devices last year, Subnautica: Below Zero will be launching on Android and iOS on 10 March 2026. This marks the first time the game will be available on smartphones and tablets. The mobile versions come with various modifications, including a new interface tailored for touch controls. However, the developer has also confirmed that MFi support will be available, allowing players to opt for mobile game controllers. Save data will be stored locally and synced to the cloud, enabling players to access their progress on different devices without needing to transfer game saves by hand. For instance, they can begin their journey on a tablet at home and seamlessly continue on their smartphone while on the go. The game is also said to have optimizations specifically for the iPhone 15 series.

    Open-World Exploration

    Subnautica: Below Zero is an open-world survival adventure set on the frigid planet 4546B. Players can not only progress the main storyline but also unleash their creativity through activities like base building. The game has a comprehensive crafting system that necessitates players to gather a wide range of materials. Subnautica: Below Zero will be sold on iOS and Android for a reasonable price of $10. Additionally, those who choose to preorder the game can enjoy a 10% discount. Generally, completing the game takes around 20 to 30 hours, and it has received a 91% rating on OpenCritic based on critic reviews, although this score is reflective of the current PC and console versions.

    Pricing and Discounts

    Playdigious is the developer behind this exciting mobile adaptation. The game not only offers an expansive world to explore but also allows players to engage in various creative activities. With the preorder discount and reasonable pricing, it presents a great opportunity for fans of the franchise to dive back into the underwater adventure. The mobile version aims to provide a similar experience to the PC and console editions, complete with the engaging mechanics and beautiful visuals that players have come to love.

  • Samsung Galaxy S26 to Include Apple Camera Feature from iPhone 15

    Samsung Galaxy S26 to Include Apple Camera Feature from iPhone 15

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple launched the iPhone 15 with a standard photo resolution of 24 MP, improving both megapixel count and dynamic range without lag and requiring less storage.
    2. Oppo’s Find X9 Pro offers a choice between 50 MP and 200 MP options, while Samsung has only provided 24 MP in the separate Expert RAW app until now.
    3. The upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to introduce a 24 MP option in the standard camera app, requiring activation through the Camera Assistant app.
    4. The 24 MP setting on Samsung devices will not replace the 12 MP option unless activated and may have a delay of around 3 seconds after pressing the shutter button.
    5. Initial tests show that the 24 MP quality on the Galaxy S26 Ultra is better than both the 12 MP and the 24 MP mode in Expert RAW, suggesting it may become the default option for portrait and regular photo modes.


    Upon the launch of the iPhone 15 in 2023, Apple raised the bar by offering a standard photo resolution of 24 MP. This upgrade not only provides a higher megapixel count but also enhances the dynamic range of photos. Interestingly, doubling the resolution doesn’t come with any lag and requires much less storage compared to a full sensor resolution photo. So far, no Android brand has made this smart transition from the typical 12 MP photo, even though 200 MP sensors are readily available in the market.

    Oppo’s Unique Strategy

    Oppo has chosen a different path with its Find X9 Pro, which features an automatic mode with either 50 MP or 200 MP options. Meanwhile, Samsung’s premium cameras have only featured a 24 MP option in the separate Expert RAW app, which isn’t commonly used by most people as their main photo app. However, according to reliable leaker Ice Universe, the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, particularly the Ultra model, is set to introduce a 24 MP option in the standard camera app for the first time. The catch is that users will need to unlock this feature through the Camera Assistant app. This information comes from Ice Universe’s own testing of a Galaxy S26 Ultra prototype.

    Features and Limitations

    Unlike Apple’s approach, the 24 MP photos on Samsung devices will only be an additional option and will not replace the 12 MP setting in the camera app unless activated. There’s also a potential drawback, as users might experience a delay of around 3 seconds after hitting the shutter button, at least on the current testing models. Nonetheless, Ice Universe suggests that switching to 24 MP is still a beneficial move.

    The initial impressions indicate that the photo quality is considerably better than 12 MP and even surpasses the 24 MP mode found in Expert RAW. It seems to eliminate most issues like oversharpening and purple fringing that can occur in some images. The leaker believes that the 24 MP setting has the capability to become the default option and will be available for both portrait and regular photo modes. Unfortunately, it seems that Samsung may limit this feature strictly to the Galaxy S26 lineup, despite the sensor technology likely remaining unchanged. This situation is reminiscent of Apple’s strategy when the iPhone 14 Pro did not see the benefits of the increased photo resolution at its launch in 2023.

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  • iPhone 15, 16, and 16e Models Face US Sales Ban

    iPhone 15, 16, and 16e Models Face US Sales Ban

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is facing challenges with its AI goals, rising tariffs, and potential removal of certain iPhone models from the US market.
    2. A preliminary ruling from the US International Trade Commission (ITC) indicates that BOE misappropriated OLED technology from Samsung, impacting OLED panel imports.
    3. iPhone models using BOE’s OLED displays, like the iPhone 15, 16, and 16e, may be unavailable for purchase in the US.
    4. The upcoming iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air are expected to use LTPO displays, not BOE panels, amid improvements in BOE’s technology.
    5. Older iPhone models may still be sold in the US, and Apple may redirect shipments of BOE-sourced OLED models to other countries despite challenges.


    Apple has been facing a lot of challenges recently. The tech giant from Cupertino is struggling with its AI goals that haven’t shown much strength, rising tariffs, and now it appears that some of its iPhone models may be pulled from the US market.

    Preliminary Ruling Impact

    A recent preliminary decision from the US International Trade Commission (ITC), highlighted by MacRumors, revealed that BOE, a display supplier, along with its subsidiaries, broke US regulations by misappropriating OLED technology from Samsung Display. This ruling suggests that imports of OLED panels using this technology should be stopped, and it also calls for halting the sale of existing devices that utilize these panels.

    Affected iPhone Models

    Consequently, iPhone models that use BOE’s OLED displays, such as the iPhone 15, iPhone 16, and iPhone 16e series, will likely be unavailable for purchase in the US. On the brighter side for Apple, the upcoming iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air are expected to feature LTPO displays that allow ProMotion, and are not likely to include BOE panels. There are talks that BOE is actively working to improve its LTPO technology. Nevertheless, as the company hasn’t convinced Apple of its panels’ performance, it’s doubtful that LTPO displays from BOE will reach smartphones sold outside China.

    Future Sales and ITC Decision

    Nevertheless, it’s highly probable that some older iPhone models will remain on the market even after the release of the iPhone 17 series. Apple is likely to redirect shipments of iPhones with BOE-sourced OLED panels to other countries, a task that will be quite challenging. According to MacRumors, the ITC’s final ruling is anticipated to come in November of this year, although history suggests that preliminary findings from the ITC typically don’t change much.

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  • iPhones Rumored to Offer Starlink Satellite Connectivity

    iPhones Rumored to Offer Starlink Satellite Connectivity

    Back in 2022, Apple introduced the iPhone 14 series, which came equipped with a crucial satellite connectivity feature aimed at saving lives. This capability has continued with the release of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models. Now, it appears that Apple is enhancing this technology through a confidential collaboration with SpaceX and T-Mobile.

    Partnership for Enhanced Connectivity

    According to a recent report from Bloomberg, the company from Cupertino is quietly collaborating with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into iPhones. This initiative likely utilizes the partnership that T-Mobile and SpaceX announced in 2022. The report also indicates that T-Mobile has started testing this feature with a limited group of iPhone users.

    Current Status of the Feature

    At this moment, the feature is still in beta testing, so it may not provide a seamless experience just yet. However, users with iPhones running iOS 18.3, which was launched earlier this week, can access the feature. T-Mobile noted in their official communication regarding the Starlink beta that, “You can now stay connected by texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing coverage beyond, please update to iOS 18.3.”

    Future Plans and Expectations

    For those who might not know, T-Mobile previously announced that Samsung Galaxy phones would also gain support for Starlink communication. Currently, the collaboration between T-Mobile and Starlink for Apple devices focuses solely on sending messages via satellite. Nonetheless, there are intentions to introduce voice calls and data services in the future. Earlier, there had been rumors of Apple working with GlobalStar for its satellite features, but now it seems the partnership with T-Mobile is expanding, with expectations that all users will gain access to this feature by the end of the year.

  • USB-C Security Flaw on iPhone: Risk of Malware Accessing Data

    USB-C Security Flaw on iPhone: Risk of Malware Accessing Data

    The USB-C port found on the Apple iPhone 15 and 16 utilizes a controller chip that has been created by Apple themselves. As reported by Cyber Security News, security experts have successfully infiltrated this proprietary ACE3 chip. Thanks to advanced security measures, the hacking process is said to be significantly harder compared to the earlier ACE2 controller, which is present in devices like MacBooks.

    Electromagnetic Signals and Hacking Techniques

    By examining electromagnetic signals during the device’s startup, the researchers pinpointed the precise moment when the firmware gets validated. They employed a method known as “electromagnetic fault injection” to load modified firmware onto an iPhone, enabling the controller to boot it while bypassing Apple’s security checks. The specialists highlighted that this presents major risks for iPhone security, as altered firmware could enable jailbreaking or modifications to iOS, potentially allowing malware access to sensitive information or even control specific functions on an iPhone.

    Physical Access and Phishing Threats

    Nonetheless, it’s important to note that attackers need to have physical access to an iPhone to execute such an attack, which suggests that this security issue will likely not affect most users. Meanwhile, BleepingComputer has shed light on new phishing schemes designed to circumvent one of iMessage’s security protocols. Although Apple automatically disables links in messages from unrecognized contacts, these links become active when the recipient replies. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of this feature by convincing their targets to respond to messages. For example, attackers may try to persuade potential victims that they can stop further messages by sending “STOP.” Once a response is given, the criminals can freely distribute phishing links through iMessage. Just like with emails, it is wise to avoid clicking on links from unverified sources.

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  • Galaxy S25 Ultra: Inspired by iPhone 15 Blue Design

    Galaxy S25 Ultra: Inspired by iPhone 15 Blue Design

    It looks like we have a good amount of info about Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series smartphones, but some leaks may still catch us off guard soon. There’s been a lot of talk about the color choices for the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra.

    Speculations on Color Variants

    Previous findings from online retailers hinted that the Galaxy S25 Ultra would come in a rich blue shade. However, a new update from trusted leaker Ice Universe suggests a different outcome. If this insider is right, the blue version of the Galaxy S25 Ultra could resemble the soft blue of the iPhone 15, which debuted in 2023. Many folks might recall that the iPhone 15’s color seemed more whitish than blue, at least according to the opinions of most smartphone users.

    Reactions from Users

    Some users have responded with sarcasm to this news, suggesting that Samsung might be short on creative color choices for the Galaxy S25 Ultra. This theory makes some sense, considering that the South Korean firm has been trimming its spending in recent years. Even though the upcoming leading smartphone may still catch the eye, it would require a lot of creativity to advertise this new color as “Titanium Blue.” Regardless, a deep blue hue looks unlikely unless the well-known leaker has been misled by false information.

    Source: Link


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  • Oppo Reno 13 First Look: iPhone-Inspired Design Revealed

    Oppo Reno 13 First Look: iPhone-Inspired Design Revealed

    Oppo is likely to reveal its new Reno smartphone series, known as the Reno 13, in just a few weeks. Before the official announcement, a picture of the Reno 13 has surfaced online, giving us a sneak peek at this upcoming mid-range device.

    First Glimpse of Reno 13

    The image was shared on Weibo by the well-known leaker, Digital Chat Station. It displays a partial view of the Reno 13 alongside an iPhone 15, showcasing the resemblance between Oppo’s latest offering and Apple’s 2023 model.

    A Fresh Design Approach

    The picture indicates that Oppo is moving towards a new design for its Reno smartphones. The rectangular camera setup from the Reno 12 has been replaced with a unique transparent squircle glass, reminiscent of the iPhone 15. Additionally, Oppo has implemented a seamless glass mold, although the camera layout is distinct to set it apart from Apple’s design. The Reno 13 features a round LED flash, in contrast to the pill-shaped one seen in its predecessor.

    Frame and Build Quality

    Oppo has also revamped the frame of the Reno 13. It resembles the frame of the iPhone 15 (which can be found on Amazon for $566), and we are hopeful that it utilizes the same recycled aluminum for improved durability, especially since the Reno 12 came with a shiny, mirror-like plastic frame.

    While Oppo hasn’t confirmed the launch date for the Reno 13 series, previous leaks suggest it could be unveiled on November 25 in China. There are expected to be at least two variants: a standard model and a pro version. The pro variant is rumored to feature a 6.78-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 50MP periscope telephoto camera that offers 3x optical zoom.

    Source: Link


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  • iPhone 15 Tops Global Smartphone Sales in Recent Study

    iPhone 15 Tops Global Smartphone Sales in Recent Study

    The iPhone 15, along with the 15 Pro Max and 15 Pro, are ranked as the top three best-selling smartphones according to the latest data from Counterpoint Research.

    Android vs. Apple

    Data from the third quarter of 2024 (3Q2024) indicates that Android phones are still trailing behind the popularity of Apple’s devices, with a notable demand for premium models continuing. Interestingly, the standard 15 model made up a significant portion of the iPhone sales, capturing half of the total sales reported, even though the larger 15 Plus was not mentioned in the findings.

    Samsung’s Place in the Market

    On the other hand, the budget-friendly Samsung Galaxy A15 5G, along with its 4G/LTE-only version (which is currently available starting at $149.99 on Amazon), secured spots in the top five. Additionally, the standard S24 made its way to #10 on the list. It was the sole representative of its flagship series to enter this ranking, being outperformed by the Redmi 13C 4G, which landed at #9.

    Future Rankings

    With the launch of the iPhone 16, it will be intriguing to see if its revamped camera design and A18 chip can alter these standings in the upcoming last quarter of 2024. Counterpoint Research’s insights will shed further light on the smartphone landscape as we move forward.

  • iPhone 15 Series Leads Global Sales, Samsung Galaxy S24 Follows

    iPhone 15 Series Leads Global Sales, Samsung Galaxy S24 Follows

    Apple’s iPhone 15 tops global smartphone sales in the third quarter of 2024, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 15 Pro following closely behind, according to Counterpoint Research data. This quarter marks a significant milestone, as it’s the first time that Pro models accounted for half of all iPhone sales in a third quarter.

    Samsung’s Performance

    Samsung’s Galaxy S24 has remained within the top 10 for three consecutive quarters, marking the first time since 2018 that a Galaxy S model has achieved this feat. Collectively, the top 10 smartphone models represented 19% of total smartphone sales worldwide in Q3 2024.

    Brand Distribution

    Apple secured four positions in the top 10, while Samsung claimed five spots, and Xiaomi captured one. The lineup has not changed significantly from last year, indicating that consumer preferences are relatively stable. A noticeable trend is the increasing interest in premium smartphones, as evidenced by the narrowing gap between the standard and Pro iPhone models. Apple’s marketing strategies, varied payment options, and trade-in promotions have made the latest iPhones more accessible to a broader audience, particularly in emerging markets.

    Xiaomi’s Position

    The Galaxy S24 from Samsung also achieved impressive results, thanks in part to its emphasis on GenAI features that attracted customers. The Galaxy A series, recognized for its budget-friendly pricing and extended software support, secured four positions in the top 10, largely due to its popularity in developing markets and a focus on affordable options. Xiaomi’s Redmi 13C maintained its place in the top 10 owing to its low cost and superior features compared to the previous Redmi 12C model.

    Overall, the iPhone 15 series dominated the global smartphone market in Q3 2024, driven by robust demand and innovative features. Samsung’s Galaxy S24 and Galaxy A series performed admirably, bolstered by their strong brand image and diverse product offerings.


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  • Redmi K70 16GB + 512GB Limited Time Price Cut in China

    Redmi K70 16GB + 512GB Limited Time Price Cut in China

    Xiaomi’s Redmi K70, which was launched in November of the previous year, is currently being sold at a much lower price in China. Initially marked at 2999 yuan ($427), the 16GB + 512GB variant is now available for just 2487 yuan ($354) on Tmall, thanks to various promotions and special vouchers.

    Pricing Options

    Additionally, this model can be found on JD.com priced at 2649 yuan ($377). Customers shopping on Tmall can also take advantage of benefits such as three-month interest-free payments through Huabei and major credit cards, which adds more value to the purchase.

    Design and Colors

    The Redmi K70 showcases a stylish, quad-curved design along with a velvet glass finish and a matte metal frame. It comes in four elegant color choices: Bamboo Moon Blue, Light Aubergine Purple, Clear Snow, and Ink Feather.

    Technical Specifications

    The device features a 6.67-inch 2K AMOLED screen with a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels, supporting a refresh rate of 120Hz and a touch sampling rate of 2160Hz. It also offers HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for improved visuals, with a peak brightness reaching up to 4000 nits, which helps visibility in bright settings.

    Powering the Redmi K70 is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, achieving more than 1.71 million in benchmark tests. It is equipped with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage for quick performance and seamless multitasking. Moreover, it features the Berserk Engine 3.0 and a 5000mm² VC liquid cooling system, ensuring consistent performance during gaming and demanding tasks.

    The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor with Optical and Electronic Image Stabilization (OIS + EIS), allowing for clear and stable images. The rear camera array also incorporates an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 2MP macro lens, supporting 8K video recording for high-quality cinematic footage. For selfies and video calls, a 16MP front camera is available.

    Battery and Connectivity

    The Redmi K70 is powered by a 5000mAh battery that enables 120W fast charging, ensuring a quick recharge for users. Regarding connectivity options, the device supports 5G SA/NSA, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, and multiple satellite navigation systems, making it an all-around connected and future-ready smartphone.

    In case your thinking about an iPhone upgrade, Apple has recently revealed price reductions for the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 14, and 14 Plus in India, with savings of up to ₹20,000 on different storage configurations. This change comes after the launch of the iPhone 16 series, making last-generation iPhones more accessible for those looking to upgrade or buy their first iPhone.