Tag: Samsung

  • Apple iPhone 18: Samsung Camera Sensors Amid Trump Tariffs

    Apple iPhone 18: Samsung Camera Sensors Amid Trump Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. President Trump announced a future 100% tariff on chip imports, prompting Apple to adapt its supply chain.
    2. Apple will produce all glass covers for iPhones and Apple Watches in the United States to seek tariff exemptions.
    3. Samsung will manufacture camera sensors in Texas for the upcoming iPhone 18, marking a shift from Sony as Apple’s supplier.
    4. The new camera sensors will feature advanced stacked image technology and will be used in the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro.
    5. Apple plans a $600 billion investment to relocate parts of its supply chain to the US, although advanced components like displays and processors will still be sourced elsewhere.


    On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump declared that a 100% tariff would be imposed on chip imports in the future. To get an exemption from this, Apple has announced that all glass covers for iPhones and Apple Watches sold globally will be produced in the United States. As reported by the Financial Times, Apple is also set to use camera sensors made in the US by Samsung Semiconductor, beginning with the iPhone 18.

    Samsung’s Innovations

    Samsung’s factory located in Texas will use cutting-edge chip manufacturing technology, though Apple hasn’t shared any detailed information yet. According to the Financial Times, Samsung is expected to produce stacked image sensors featuring three layers. These sensors will make their first appearance in the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro. This marks a significant change, as it will be the first time Apple will not use camera sensors from Sony, which were previously made at a TSMC facility in Japan.

    Investment in Local Manufacturing

    These new camera sensors are part of a larger strategy involving a $600 billion investment to shift parts of the iPhone supply chain back to the US, aiming to dodge tariffs set by the Trump administration. Apple stresses that components produced in the US will be utilized in iPhones sold all over the world. However, it’s important to note that there are no current plans to manufacture some of the more advanced and costly components of an iPhone, like the display or the processor, within the US.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Gets 3C Certification Ahead of Launch

    Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Gets 3C Certification Ahead of Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung introduced the Galaxy Tab S10 series in September 2024, including the Tab S10+ and Tab S10 Ultra.
    2. The upcoming Tab S11 Ultra (model SM-X930) has been certified by 3C in China and will support 45W wired charging without a charging adapter included.
    3. The Tab S11 Ultra is expected to feature an 11,600mAh battery and will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ processor.
    4. The previous Tab S10 Ultra had a 14.6-inch AMOLED display, a dual rear camera system, and was powered by the Dimensity 9300+ processor, with an 11,200mAh battery.
    5. Official specifications for the Tab S11 Ultra are not yet confirmed, but the certification suggests a near release.


    The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 series was introduced in September 2024, bringing two premium models: the Tab S10+ and the Tab S10 Ultra. Reports suggest that the South Korean technology leader is working on the Tab S11 series, which might consist of the standard Tab S11 and the Tab S11 Ultra versions.

    Tab S11 Ultra Certification

    The Tab S11 Ultra, identified by the model number SM-X930, has received certification from 3C in China. This certification indicates that the tablet supports 45W wired charging. Moreover, it confirms that the device will not come with a charging adapter included. Earlier information suggested that the Tab S11 Ultra would be equipped with an impressive 11,600mAh battery.

    Performance Insights

    In addition, a listing on Geekbench disclosed that the tablet runs on MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400+ processor. This is a high-end octa-core chip built on a 3nm architecture. It also powers other tablets like the Redmi K Pad, which achieved around 2.8 million points in our AnTuTu benchmark review.

    Previous Model Comparison

    For reference, the Tab S10 Ultra, which came before, showcased a 14.6-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1848 x 2960 pixels. It featured a dual rear camera system, which included a 13MP main sensor and an 8MP ultra-wide sensor, alongside a dual 12MP front camera setup. The Tab S10 Ultra was powered by the Dimensity 9300+ processor and had an 11,200mAh battery with support for 45W charging. The starting price for this tablet was set at $1,200.

    To wrap things up, Samsung has yet to officially verify the specifications for the Tab S11 Ultra. Nevertheless, the recent certification serves as a strong indication that the release is just around the corner.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Repairability Rating by iFixit Teardown

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Repairability Rating by iFixit Teardown

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold7 has tougher battery removal compared to previous models like the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
    2. Repairing the foldable device presents multiple challenges, including difficult cover display removal due to strong glue.
    3. Changing the flexible AMOLED screen is complicated and risky, with a high chance of damaging the display.
    4. The Galaxy Z Fold7 received a low repairability score of 3 out of 10, indicating poor design for repairs.
    5. The device lacks repair manuals and replacement parts, contributing to high official repair costs.


    Samsung’s past performance has been better than what we see now. According to iFixit’s teardown, taking out the batteries from the Galaxy Z Fold7 is a lot tougher than what we usually expect from this South Korean brand. It was pretty simple with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, but with the new foldable, repair experts had to use solvents since the pull tabs just don’t work as they should.

    Difficult Repairs Ahead

    This issue is just one of many complaints about Samsung’s much thinner and nearly record-setting Galaxy foldable. Taking off the cover display is also very hard because the glue used is tough to loosen, even when applying heat. An even bigger challenge comes with changing the flexible AMOLED screen inside. The plastic edge has to be removed painstakingly, which is nearly impossible to do without damaging the delicate flex display, as noted by iFixit.

    Poor Repairability Score

    Additionally, the device comes with no repair manuals or replacement parts, leading to a repairability score of only 3 points out of a possible 10. This is a terrible score, especially considering Samsung’s extremely high official repair costs.

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  • Samsung TVs Upgrade with Smarter Bixby Voice Assistant Update

    Samsung TVs Upgrade with Smarter Bixby Voice Assistant Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is launching an update for its 2025 TVs to improve Bixby, its voice assistant, making user interactions easier.
    2. The updated Bixby features more natural dialogues and the ability to ask relevant follow-up questions, enhancing user experience.
    3. Bixby is now powered by generative AI, allowing users to search for content and ask general knowledge questions with displayed answers.
    4. The rollout begins in South Korea, with availability in the US by early August and in European countries by the end of the month.
    5. The update applies to 2025 Neo QLED, QLED, OLED, and The Frame TVs, with a Vision AI update planned for compatible models in October 2025.


    Samsung is starting to launch a new update for its 2025 TVs that’s expected to enhance the performance of Bixby, which is their voice assistant, making it easier for users to interact with their TVs.

    New Features of Bixby

    Samsung states that Bixby now engages in “more natural” dialogues, capable of asking relevant follow-up questions. You can activate Bixby either by using a voice command or by pressing the microphone button. The assistant is said to better grasp the context of user commands. Additionally, Bixby has been integrated into the Click to Search feature, enabling users to inquire about a show or actor simply by asking.

    Generative AI Integration

    According to Samsung, the upgraded Bixby is driven by generative AI technology. Users can not only search for content using prompts like “Suggest a good movie for night viewing,” but they can also ask general knowledge questions, such as “What is the height of Mount Everest?” and see the answers displayed on the TV screen. Furthermore, Bixby can be used to manage connected smart home devices.

    Rollout Schedule

    The gradual rollout of the enhanced Bixby is beginning in South Korea. Following this, it will be available to users in the US starting in early August, and will also reach European countries including Spain, France, Italy, and Germany by the end of the month. Samsung has confirmed that the update will be applicable for the 2025 Neo QLED, QLED, OLED, and The Frame TVs (50-inch 2025 The Frame currently priced at $997.99 on Amazon). Additionally, the company has shared that a Vision AI update will be released for compatible models in October 2025.

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  • Galaxy S25 FE Launch Expected on September 19

    Galaxy S25 FE Launch Expected on September 19

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung has confirmed the upcoming launch of the Galaxy S25 FE, expected around mid-September.
    2. The Galaxy S25 FE is anticipated to be available in South Korea on September 19, with a global release date still uncertain.
    3. Samsung plans to launch the Galaxy S25 FE sooner than the Galaxy S24 FE from last year.
    4. The phone is rumored to feature an Exynos 2400 processor and a 4,900 mAh battery, with minor design changes from the Galaxy S24 FE.
    5. The Galaxy S25 FE is expected to be available in four colors: Icy Blue, Navy, Jet Black, and White.


    Leaks and whispers about the Galaxy S25 FE have been circulating for quite a while, and Samsung has now confirmed that it is indeed on its way. Although the company hasn’t provided a specific date for its release, indications suggest that it could be unveiled around mid-September. Recent reports hint that we might have a precise launch date, but only for the Korean market.

    Expected Launch Date

    According to FN News, which cites sources from the industry, the Galaxy S25 FE is anticipated to hit the shelves in South Korea on September 19. However, it remains uncertain when the device will be available in other global markets. For instance, the Galaxy S24 FE (buy on Amazon) made its debut in the US in September last year, but it didn’t arrive in South Korea until November.

    Samsung’s Timeline

    Despite this, Samsung has already stated that the Galaxy S25 FE will be launched sooner than the Galaxy S24 FE from last year. The latest information suggests that Samsung might be referring to an early launch specifically for Korea. More details about the launch are expected to emerge in the upcoming weeks.

    Specifications and Features

    Regarding the features of the Galaxy S25 FE, it is rumored that the phone will be equipped with the Exynos 2400 processor and will have a 4,900 mAh battery. This is noteworthy considering the anticipated slimmer and lighter design. There are only minor design adjustments when compared to the Galaxy S24 FE, and the new device is expected to be available in four colors: Icy Blue, Navy, Jet Black, and White.

    It’s important to highlight that apart from confirming an earlier launch, Samsung has not revealed any further information about the Galaxy S25 FE, so for now, these details remain speculative.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera: Higher Light Sensitivity Than Rivals

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera: Higher Light Sensitivity Than Rivals

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s successor will feature a faster lens with an F/1.4 aperture, allowing for 47% more light intake compared to the F/1.7 of its predecessor.
    2. This improvement in aperture size could enhance low-light photography and enable quicker shutter speeds for sharper images of moving subjects.
    3. Competitors like the Google Pixel 10 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro have smaller apertures (F/1.7 and F/1.8, respectively), which may give Samsung an edge in camera performance.
    4. The upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to have 60-watt fast charging, allowing for a 0 to 80% charge in about 30 minutes, though it lags behind some Chinese smartphones with 100-watt charging.
    5. The Galaxy S26 lineup will include an enhanced NFC antenna for improved contactless payment functionality, particularly for Samsung Pay.


    It’s a little piece of news that famous leaker Ice Universe dropped just yesterday on X (previously Twitter). For weeks, we’ve been anticipating that the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s successor would come with a quicker lens, and now it’s becoming clearer how significant this enhancement really is. With an F/1.4 aperture, compared to the F/1.7 of its predecessor, the 200-MP ISOCELL HP2 sensor can draw in as much as 47% more light. This means that not only will photos taken at night be much brighter, but it also allows for swifter shutter speeds in daylight, potentially resulting in sharper shots of fast-moving subjects.

    Competitive Landscape

    If these details hold true, Samsung might not need to worry about competition as much. The Google Pixel 10 Pro, similar to the Pixel 9 Pro, is anticipated to have an f/1.7 aperture. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 Pro (and likely its successor, the iPhone 17 Pro) has an even tighter aperture at f/1.8. Even flagship cameras from Chinese brands, which tend to be innovative in many ways, usually sport slightly smaller apertures. For instance, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra features an f/1.6 aperture, and the Vivo X200 Ultra has an f/1.7 aperture. While aperture size is not the only factor determining photo and video quality, it could help address some of the lighting and speed issues seen in Samsung’s flagship models in recent years.

    Upcoming Features

    Recently, additional snippets of information have surfaced regarding the Galaxy S26 Ultra and its potential variants, the Galaxy S26 Pro and Galaxy S26 Edge. As per Ice Universe’s post (refer to Weibo above), a 60-watt fast-charging feature is expected to bring slight enhancements in charging times. The 5,000 mAh battery of the Galaxy S26 Ultra is projected to charge from 0 to 75 or 80% in just 30 minutes. However, this still falls short when compared to the 100-watt capabilities of certain Chinese smartphones, which can fully charge in about the same timeframe.

    Enhanced NFC Capabilities

    As reported by South Korean industry magazine ETNews, the entire Galaxy S26 lineup will also include an added NFC antenna at the top, which is likely to improve contactless payment functions. Unlike Apple’s iPhones, which benefit from unique patents allowing for less precise positioning at payment terminals during NFC transactions, this new NFC setup is expected to work more efficiently in the future. It’s important to highlight that the report specifically mentions Samsung Pay.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S25 FE: Budget Flagship Smartphone Colors Revealed

    Samsung Galaxy S25 FE: Budget Flagship Smartphone Colors Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S25 FE is expected to launch soon, replacing the Galaxy S24 FE, which is currently priced at $609.99.
    2. Leaked images reveal the Galaxy S25 FE will be available in four colors: Icy Blue, Navy, Jet Black, and White, with silver frames for all except Jet Black.
    3. The device is likely to feature an Exynos 2400 chipset and a 4,500 mAh battery with 15 W wireless and 45 W wired charging.
    4. It will maintain a 6.7-inch display and the same camera setup as the previous model.
    5. The Galaxy S25 FE will have a slimmer design, measuring 161.3 x 76.6 x 7.4mm and weighing 190 g, compared to the S24 FE’s larger dimensions.


    The Galaxy S25 FE is set to launch very soon, although Samsung hasn’t yet shared a specific date for its release. It’s expected to take the place of the Galaxy S24 FE, which is currently priced at $609.99 on Amazon, just less than a year after it was introduced on September 26, 2024.

    Leaked Images Reveal New Colors

    In anticipation of this upcoming device, Nieuwe Mobiel has leaked promotional images that display the Galaxy S25 FE in four distinct colors. According to earlier leaks, the colors will include Icy Blue, Navy, Jet Black, and White, as shown in the image below. Interestingly, all colors except for Jet Black come with a silver frame. Furthermore, the Icy Blue, Navy, and White versions feature silver camera rings that are notably prominent on the Navy model.

    Technical Specifications

    The Galaxy S25 FE is likely to be powered by an Exynos 2400 chipset and will include a 4,500 mAh battery that can handle 15 W wireless and 45 W wired charging. This year’s edition of the Galaxy Fan Edition is also expected to maintain a 6.7-inch display and will feature the same camera setup as last year’s version. However, it will be designed in a slimmer and smaller frame, measuring 161.3 x 76.6 x 7.4mm and weighing 190 g, compared to the Galaxy S24 FE’s dimensions of 162 x 77.3 x 8 mm and weight of 213 g.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE Leak: Bigger Battery Coming Soon

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE Leak: Bigger Battery Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is developing a new version of the Galaxy Buds 3, rumored to be a Fan Edition (FE).
    2. The design of the new earbuds resembles the Buds 3 Pro, with sharper angles, and may have a higher price than the original Buds FE.
    3. The new earbuds’ case could be larger, with a model number EP-QR420, featuring a 900mAh capacity compared to the 515mAh of the Buds 3.
    4. Each Galaxy Bud 3 FE is expected to have a standard battery capacity of 200mAh.
    5. The official reveal of the new earbuds may coincide with the launch of the Galaxy S25 FE.


    Samsung’s upcoming flagship wireless earbuds may not be finished yet in 2025, as rumors suggest that the company is developing a new version. This new model is expected to be a Fan Edition of the Galaxy Buds 3, featuring a popular attribute to match its name.

    Design and Pricing Insights

    Reports indicate that these accessories have surfaced in a slightly blurry render, showing a design similar to the Buds 3 Pro, which have sharper angles, unlike the rounder Buds 3. As a result, they could be priced higher than the original Buds FE, currently available for as low as $51.49 on Amazon.

    Battery Specifications

    So far, the case for these new earbuds hasn’t been shown, but it might be larger than the case of the Buds 3. SGS Fimko has supposedly evaluated it, and it is referred to by the model number EP-QR420, boasting a significant 900mAh capacity, outpacing the 515mAh of the Buds 3 series until now.

    Each “Galaxy Bud 3 FE” (also known as “SM-R420”) reportedly has a standard capacity of 200mAh. There’s currently no announcement on when these new earbuds will be officially revealed; however, they could potentially debut alongside the Galaxy S25 FE soon.

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  • Galaxy S26 Edge Battery Size May Exceed Expectations

    Galaxy S26 Edge Battery Size May Exceed Expectations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung plans to replace the Galaxy S26 with a Galaxy S26 Pro and the Plus model with a Galaxy S26 Edge, while the Ultra will remain in the lineup.
    2. The Galaxy S26 Edge is rumored to have a 4,400 mAh battery, an increase from the Galaxy S25 Edge’s 3,900 mAh.
    3. There is uncertainty about the adoption of Silicon-Carbon technology for the Galaxy S26 Edge’s battery.
    4. The Galaxy S26 Edge is expected to be slimmer than the Galaxy S25 Edge, making it challenging to fit the larger battery.
    5. These details are speculative, but the Galaxy S26 Edge may offer a better option than the Plus model and will likely feature an improved ultrawide camera.


    It seems that Samsung is gearing up for a significant transformation in its Galaxy S26 series, with plans to swap out the Galaxy S26 for a Galaxy S26 Pro. In addition, the Galaxy S26 Edge is likely to take the place of the Plus model, while the Ultra will continue to be a part of the lineup. The Galaxy S25 Edge was lighter and slimmer, which meant a trade-off in battery life; however, if the latest information is correct, the Galaxy S26 Edge might not face the same issue, at least to some extent.

    New Battery Expectations

    The most recent leak comes from Setsuna Digital on Weibo (translated by a machine). According to the leaker, the Galaxy S26 Edge will feature a 4,400 mAh battery. This is an increase from the earlier expected 4,200 mAh, and it’s also significantly more than the Galaxy S25 Edge’s (available on Amazon) lowly 3,900 mAh. It remains uncertain whether Samsung will adopt the Silicon-Carbon technology this time, but it seems to be the path they are leaning towards. The Galaxy S26 Edge is rumored to be even slimmer than the Galaxy S25 Edge’s 5.8 mm thickness, which would make fitting a 4,400 mAh lithium-ion battery quite a challenging task, if not downright impossible.

    Galaxy S26 Edge vs. Galaxy S26 Plus

    The Galaxy S26 Edge is rumored to take over from the Galaxy S26 Plus in the next generation of Samsung’s flagship devices. If that wasn’t the case, the Galaxy S26 Plus would likely have a 4,900 mAh battery, similar to what the Galaxy S25 Plus (available on Amazon) has, or even more. This means that the expected 4,400 mAh of the Galaxy S26 Edge would still be lower than the Plus variant’s capacity, although the more streamlined design would make it a more acceptable option.

    Rumor Status

    It’s important to keep in mind that these details are still speculative, and the specifications might change in the future. However, as it currently stands, the Galaxy S26 Edge appears to be a more appealing alternative to the Plus version. Additionally, it is anticipated that it will feature an improved ultrawide camera compared to the Galaxy S25 Edge.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Book6 Ultra Benchmarks: Are They Red Herrings?

    Samsung Galaxy Book6 Ultra Benchmarks: Are They Red Herrings?

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is developing a new premium Windows device, possibly bypassing the Galaxy Book5 Ultra for the Galaxy Book6 Ultra.
    2. Geekbench listings show model numbers 500SHA and 500THA, which indicate a desktop processor, not a laptop.
    3. The devices are expected to feature the Intel Core Ultra 9 285, priced at $579.99 on Amazon.
    4. Both listings show 24 CPU cores, aligning with the specifications of the Intel Core Ultra 9 285.
    5. The motherboard model ‘DM500THZ-AD9AB’ suggests a connection to an all-in-one desktop Samsung sells in South Korea.


    Evidence has surfaced suggesting that Samsung is developing a new premium Windows device, thanks to information shared by Abhishek Yadav. Two listings on Geekbench have come to light, identified by the model numbers 500SHA and 500THA. These listings have appeared amidst speculations that Samsung may bypass the Galaxy Book5 Ultra, opting instead for the Galaxy Book6 Ultra.

    Insights from the Listings

    The details from the Geekbench entries indicate that we may not be looking at a new Galaxy Book laptop. The screenshots reveal that these listings point towards a desktop processor instead of a laptop variant. It seems that Samsung is working on the 500SHA and 500THA featuring the Intel Core Ultra 9 285, which is currently priced at $579.99 on Amazon, rather than laptop versions like the Core Ultra 9 285H or Core Ultra 9 285HX.

    Processor Details

    It’s possible that Geekbench is misreporting the processor’s designation. Nonetheless, both listings show 24 CPU cores divided into clusters of 8 and 16 cores, which align perfectly with the Core Ultra 9 285. Additionally, the motherboard model number ‘DM500THZ-AD9AB’ corresponds to an all-in-one desktop that Samsung markets in South Korea. Therefore, it appears this situation is more about mistaken identity rather than any connection to the Galaxy Book5 Ultra or Galaxy Book6 Ultra.

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