Tag: Smartphone

  • Sony Patent Links Smartphone to PS5 DualSense Controller for Gaming

    Sony Patent Links Smartphone to PS5 DualSense Controller for Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony’s new patent suggests using smartphones as an additional input device to enhance the gaming experience with the PS5 controller.
    2. The integration of smartphones allows for expanded input options, utilizing their displays and sensors alongside the standard controller.
    3. The setup could enable games to recognize commands from both the PS5 controller and the smartphone simultaneously.
    4. Potential advantages include more natural controls via touchscreens and the use of smartphone sensors for unique gaming experiences.
    5. Developers may utilize smartphone features like high-resolution cameras to improve character design processes and gameplay.

    Several patents from Sony have suggested improvements for its standard PS5 controller. The latest concept shifts focus from the controller itself to a smartphone positioned above it. Cheat Happens uncovered the document that outlines how this additional input device could enhance gaming experiences.

    Expanding Input Options

    The aim of the patent is to “expand the variety of input control types that may be delivered by an input device.” It highlights smartphones as they are “commonly used and generally contain a display and at least one sensor.” Sony believes gamers will likely have a Galaxy phone or an iPhone close by, even into the PS6 generation.

    Controller and Phone Integration

    Images in the patent seem to show a DualSense PS5 controller with a mobile phone attached via a clip. This setup is similar to various phone mounts for controllers that are already available. Future PS5 or PS6 games would be able to recognize commands from both the controller and the smartphone at the same time.

    Potential Advantages

    Though the setup might seem clumsy, Sony sees several possible advantages. Certain games could feel more natural to control using a touchscreen rather than traditional sticks and buttons. Game developers might also use smartphone sensors that are usually not found in other gaming accessories.

    Although the Nintendo Wii U didn’t manage to win over critics, an extra screen can improve gameplay when properly utilized. The second display can allow games to show a map or present action from a different viewpoint.

    Utilizing Smartphone Features

    Developers might also discover ways to make use of a mobile phone’s high-resolution camera. Some games already let players upload selfies when designing their characters, but this process isn’t always smooth.

    The latest Sony patent is just one of many aimed at enhancing the DualSense PS5 controller and its future versions. Most pertinent to this new idea is a filing from January for a stickless and buttonless version. Instead of depending on an additional device, players could map touchscreen inputs directly onto the surface of the controller.

    Cheat Happens, Oivo, Orzly.

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  • Compact Frog RS1 Smartphone with Hidden Gamepad and Keyboard

    Compact Frog RS1 Smartphone with Hidden Gamepad and Keyboard

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Frog RS1 features a unique 3.4-inch square display, significantly smaller than most modern smartphones.
    2. The display can rotate 180 degrees and may present challenges for apps designed for larger screens.
    3. It offers options for a gamepad or a keyboard with quick access buttons for apps like WhatsApp and Facebook.
    4. The gamepad is designed for classic games, lacking analog sticks and suggesting a focus on retro gaming.
    5. There is currently no release date or brand confirmation for the Frog RS1, as it may be marketed under a different name.

    The Frog RS1 stands out as one of the most unique smartphone designs this year. In contrast to even smaller smartphones like the Apple iPhone 17, which costs $792 on Amazon and has a 6.3-inch display, the Frog RS1 features a tiny, square screen measuring just 3.4 inches diagonally. This size is quite small by today’s smartphone benchmarks.

    Display Challenges

    This compact square display may cause issues with apps that are designed for larger screens. The display is connected to a hinge that allows a 180-degree rotation. Depending on which version of the Frog RS1 you choose, it can come with either a gamepad or a keyboard featuring dedicated buttons for WhatsApp and Facebook, making it easy to access those apps directly.

    Gamepad Functionality

    Notably, the gamepad lacks analog sticks, making it better suited for classic games that were originally created for handheld devices like the Nintendo Game Boy. The manufacturer has yet to reveal specific details regarding the Frog RS1’s features. The notably wide screen edges and the single, tiny camera located on the back suggest that this smartphone is likely to be more budget-friendly.

    At this moment, there is no information available about the release date or whether the Frog RS1 Android smartphone will hit the market. Given that Shenzhen Frog Technology also operates as an ODM, it’s possible that this smartphone might be marketed under a different brand name if another company decides to release it.

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  • Xiaomi Poco X8 Pro Launch: Affordable Mid-Range Phone at $299

    Xiaomi Poco X8 Pro Launch: Affordable Mid-Range Phone at $299

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Poco X8 Pro features a 120 Hz AMOLED display with a resolution of 2,756 x 1,268 pixels and peak brightness of 3,500 nits.
    2. It includes a 50 MP primary camera and an 8 MP ultra-wide-angle camera, along with a large 6,500 mAh battery supporting 100 W wired charging.
    3. The smartphone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra chipset and has an IP68-certified casing.
    4. The Poco X8 Pro is priced at $299 for the 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage version, with higher prices for 512 GB options.
    5. Color options for the Poco X8 Pro include Black, White, and Mint Green, with prices expected to increase after the Early Bird promotion.

    The Poco X8 Pro is the most affordable of the three new smartphones that Xiaomi has introduced today. To give you some background, the company has also launched the Poco X8 Pro Iron Man Edition and the Poco X8 Pro Max at the same time. Despite this, the Poco X8 Pro has some impressive features that make it a worthy successor to last year’s Poco X7 Pro (curr. $399.99 on Amazon).

    Display and Build

    Xiaomi has packed a 120 Hz AMOLED screen into the Poco X8 Pro, which boasts a resolution of 2,756 x 1,268 pixels and a peak brightness of 3,500 nits (25% APL). The display also incorporates 3,840 Hz PWM dimming along with a 12-bit color depth. To protect the 6.59-inch screen, Xiaomi has used Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, which also shields the 20 MP front-facing camera.

    Camera and Battery

    On the back of the device, there are a 50 MP primary camera (Sony IMX882) and an 8 MP ultra-wide-angle camera. This rear section conceals a substantial 6,500 mAh battery that supports 100 W wired charging (PPS) and 27 W reverse wired charging. Additionally, the Poco X8 Pro is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra chipset and is housed in an IP68-certified casing that measures 157.5 x 75.2 x 8.4 mm and weighs 201.5 g.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Poco X8 Pro is available in Black, White, and Mint Green colors. At its launch, Xiaomi is pricing the 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage version at $299. For those interested in 512 GB options, the starting price is $329 for 8 GB of RAM and $359 for 12 GB of RAM. It’s worth noting that the Poco X8 Pro will eventually be sold for $329, and the prices for the 512 GB models will rise by $40 each after the Early Bird promotion period ends.

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  • Samsung Announces New Release Date for Ultra-Premium Foldable

    Samsung Announces New Release Date for Ultra-Premium Foldable

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Z TriFold launched in the US on January 30 and sold out within thirty minutes due to high demand.
    2. A restock of the Galaxy Z TriFold will occur on February 20, but the number of available units remains undisclosed.
    3. The smartphone is priced at $2,899 and features 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage.
    4. It uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold7, which is priced at $1,599.
    5. Some early users have reported display issues with the Galaxy Z TriFold, which are discussed in another article.

    Samsung has finally launched the Galaxy Z TriFold in the United States last month. It became available on January 30, and the first-generation model sold out on the same day. In fact, Samsung ran out of its initial stock in less than thirty minutes. This quick sellout speaks volumes about both the device’s limited availability in the US and its high demand.

    Upcoming Restock

    Now, almost a month later, the Galaxy Z TriFold is making a comeback in the US as part of its first restock. However, Samsung has not disclosed how many units will be available this time. This raises suspicions that the company may again release the Galaxy Z TriFold in very limited quantities. Sales for the Galaxy Z TriFold are set to resume on February 20 at 07:00 ET and 10:00 PT.

    Pricing and Specs

    For your information, Samsung’s initial tri-foldable smartphone is priced at $2,899 and comes with 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. It also has the same cover display and Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset that the Galaxy Z Fold7 features (currently priced at $1,599 on Amazon). Moreover, some early users have reported issues with the display, and we have detailed those problems in another article. For a full comparison of the Galaxy Z TriFold with the Huawei Mate XT, check out our hands-on review of Samsung’s first tri-foldable phone.

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  • Pixel 10a Colors: Preview of All 4 Expected Color Options

    Pixel 10a Colors: Preview of All 4 Expected Color Options

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 10a will launch on February 18 and is expected to come in four color options: Berry, Fog, Lavender, and Obsidian.
    2. The design of the Pixel 10a is similar to the Pixel 9a, with only slight differences in color.
    3. Official images of the Pixel 10a have been released, showcasing its various color perspectives.
    4. The specifications include a 6.3-inch P-OLED display with a 1080p+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, along with a dual rear camera setup (48MP primary and 13MP ultrawide) and a 13MP front camera.
    5. The Pixel 10a is expected to maintain a battery capacity of 5,100 mAh and upgrade to the Tensor G5 chipset.

    Google has revealed the Pixel 10a, which is set to hit the market on February 18. Although the promotional video displays just one color, it is anticipated to be available in four shades, similar to the Pixel 9a. The new colors are slightly different from the previous model, yet the overall appearance of the phone remains quite alike.

    Color Variations

    Android Headlines has been releasing what they call “official” images of the Pixel 10a for a while, and they’ve now presented the device in its four expected hues. The images depict the Pixel 10a from various perspectives in its anticipated Berry, Fog, Lavender, and Obsidian color options. It’s worth noting that the Pixel 9a also launched in four different colors: Iris, Peony, Porcelain, and Obsidian. Google has already confirmed the Lavender version for the Pixel 10a, but the official name is still a bit unclear. Check out the remaining colors below:

    Specifications Overview

    When it comes to specifications, the Pixel 10a is likely to feature a 6.3-inch P-OLED display boasting a resolution of 1080p+ and a refresh rate of 120Hz. The dual cameras on the rear are expected to include a 48MP f/1.7 primary camera and a 13MP f/2.2 ultrawide camera. On the front, the selfie camera is rumored to be a 13MP f/2.2. This camera setup is identical to that of the Pixel 9a. Google is also expected to maintain the same battery capacity for the Pixel 10a at 5,100 mAh. The chipset is likely to be upgraded to the Tensor G5, which is featured in the Pixel 10 series.

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  • Google Pixel 10a Leaked Photos Show Two Exciting Design Upgrades

    Google Pixel 10a Leaked Photos Show Two Exciting Design Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Preorders for the Google Pixel 10a may start on February 18, with prices likely remaining at $519 for 128GB and $599 for 256GB models.
    2. The design of the Pixel 10a resembles the Pixel 9a, featuring thinner bezels and a flat camera layout.
    3. The Pixel 10a is made partly from recycled materials and includes an AI assistant feature called Gemini Live.
    4. Expected camera specifications include a 48MP main camera, a 13MP ultrawide camera, and a 13MP front camera, along with a 6.3-inch P-OLED display and 120Hz refresh rate.
    5. It’s unclear whether the Pixel 10a will use the new Tensor G5 chip or the older Tensor G4 ARM chip.

    According to some whispers, you might be able to preorder the Google Pixel 10a beginning on February 18. The price is likely to stay the same, meaning the entry-level model with 128GB of storage is probably going to be set at $519, whereas the 256GB version could be priced at $599. In any case, the well-known leaker Evan Blass has released a bunch of promotional images that are likely sourced right from Google.

    Design Similarities and Differences

    As anticipated, the design closely mirrors last year’s Google Pixel 9a, featuring a flat metal frame and a pill-shaped camera bump with two lenses. The recent images reveal a couple of distinctions between the Pixel 9a and the Pixel 10a. For one, the screen bezels appear a bit thinner; for another, the cameras no longer stick out from the body, allowing the Pixel 10a to lay flat on a surface.

    Features and Specs

    These promotional visuals indicate that the Google Pixel 10a is partly constructed from recycled materials. The mid-range smartphone also includes Gemini Live, enabling users to ask an AI assistant questions about items that the camera detects. When compared to the already available Google Pixel 10 (starting at $649 on Amazon), buyers might need to accept a few trade-offs, as the specifications of the Pixel 10a likely won’t deviate much from the Pixel 9a.

    Rumors point to the Google Pixel 10a featuring a 48MP f/1.7 main camera, a 13MP f/2.2 ultrawide camera, and a 13MP f/2.2 front-facing camera. Additionally, the smartphone is expected to have a 6.3-inch P-OLED display with 1080p+ resolution and a refresh rate of 120Hz. The battery is likely to have a capacity of 5,100mAh. However, it’s uncertain if Google will utilize the new Tensor G5 chip or stick with the older Tensor G4 ARM chip.

    Evan Blass (X)

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  • Affordable Motorola Moto G17 Specs Leaked: Early Details Inside

    Affordable Motorola Moto G17 Specs Leaked: Early Details Inside

    Key Takeaways

    1. MicroSD Support: The Moto G17 will include a microSD card slot, supporting cards up to 1 TB.
    2. G17 Power Model: A G17 Power variant will be available alongside the standard model, though details are not yet confirmed.
    3. RAM and Storage Options: The Moto G17 will offer a model with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, a significant upgrade from the G15.
    4. Battery Specifications: It is expected to feature a 5,000mAh battery with 20W fast charging capabilities.
    5. Imminent Launch: The phone’s listings on retail and support sites suggest that an official announcement is likely coming soon.

    Motorola is preparing to introduce the Moto G17, which will be the follow-up to the Moto G15, an entry-level smartphone released in December 2024. Although the Moto G17 has not been officially announced yet, a listing from a retailer has provided some early information about this budget-friendly device.

    Specs Confirmation

    Interestingly, Motorola has confirmed one major specification on their support site. An official FAQ page dedicated to the Moto G17 indicates that the smartphone includes a microSD card slot, which can support memory cards of up to 1 TB. Additionally, the page mentions that there will be a G17 Power model available alongside the standard version, although specific details about the Power variant remain unknown.

    Retailer Insights

    According to the retailer listing, the Moto G17 will come in two different color options. One of these models is expected to offer 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. This could be one of the higher-end setups since the original G15 had a base configuration of 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.

    Battery and Charging Details

    The Moto G17 has also shown up in the Brazilian National Telecommunications database, which suggests that it will be equipped with a 5,000mAh battery and will support 20W fast charging (20K Anker Zolo 30W power bank curr. $37.99 on Amazon). While there’s no definitive timeline for its launch, the phone’s presence on both a retailer’s website and the official support page hints that an official announcement could be imminent.

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  • Google Pixel Rumors: No Cheaper Price or February Release

    Google Pixel Rumors: No Cheaper Price or February Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 10a will closely resemble the Pixel 9a, featuring a 5,100 mAh battery and a Tensor G4 chipset.
    2. It will include a 6.3-inch AMOLED screen and a camera setup with a 48 MP main camera, a 13 MP ultra-wide camera, and a 13 MP front camera.
    3. Pricing for the Pixel 10a is expected to be €549, with a 256 GB option costing €649, remaining consistent with the previous generation.
    4. The official launch date for the Pixel 10a is set for March 5, with pre-orders starting on February 18.
    5. Available color options will include Berry, Fog, Lavender, and Obsidian.

    The Pixel 10a has been talked about and its features debated since early last year. Now, as we approach the first anniversary of the Pixel 9a, which currently costs $439.95 on Amazon, it’s not surprising that more information about the upcoming model is surfacing through various leaks.

    First Look at the Pixel 10a

    Just a few days ago, Android Headlines provided a genuine glimpse of the Pixel 10a. The image shows that Google’s next mid-range device might look very similar to the current model. It seems that the 5,100 mAh battery and the Tensor G4 chipset will be making a return. Additionally, there will be a 6.3-inch AMOLED screen along with a camera setup that includes a 48 MP main camera (f/1.7), a 13 MP ultra-wide camera (f/2.2), and a 13 MP front camera (f/2.2).

    Pricing Details

    According to insights from billbil-kun, the prices in the Eurozone might be a bit higher than what recent leak from Arsène Lupin suggested. Specifically, it looks like the Pixel 10a will retail for €549, or €649 for the option with 256 GB of storage. Although this is €50 more than the earlier claims, the pricing remains unchanged from the previous generation.

    Release Timeline

    Simultaneously, billbil-kun has mentioned that Google is expected to start shipping the Pixel 10a in early March, with March 5 marked as the official launch date. However, both billbil-kun and Evan Blass predict that pre-orders for the Pixel 10a will begin on February 18, offering color choices such as Berry, Fog, Lavender, and Obsidian.

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  • Titan 2 Elite: Curved BlackBerry Alternative with Sleeker Design

    Titan 2 Elite: Curved BlackBerry Alternative with Sleeker Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unihertz has announced the Titan 2 Elite, a compact smartphone featuring a physical keyboard.
    2. The keyboard has four rows but lacks a dedicated number row and Android navigation keys.
    3. The Titan 2 Elite has a sleeker design with rounded corners and a punch-hole cutout for the front camera.
    4. Specific technical specifications have not been released, but interested users can register for updates.
    5. The device aims to attract users who prefer physical keyboards while competing in the smartphone market.

    Unihertz has revealed a new smartphone called the Titan 2 Elite through a teaser image. The design of this keyboard-equipped device doesn’t come as a big surprise. It looks to be a compact smartphone, with a smaller display size to accommodate the keyboard. The keyboard features four rows, however it lacks a dedicated row for numbers or for replacing the Android navigation keys, which are positioned on either side of the spacebar. A function key is available for typing numbers and special characters. The smartphone shown employs the familiar QWERTY layout.

    New Features Ahead

    While Unihertz has not provided additional technical specifications yet, those who are interested can register for an email list to stay updated. When comparing it to the Unihertz Titan 2, some differences are already noticeable. The Titan 2 Elite appears to be much sleeker thanks to its rounded corners on both the casing and the display edges, although specific measurements have not been disclosed yet. Additionally, the Titan 2 Elite does away with the thicker bezel above the screen, which allows for the front camera to be placed in a punch-hole cutout.

    What to Expect Next

    Unihertz is keeping many details under wraps for now, but they are generating interest in this latest model. The new smartphone promises to combine functionality with a compact design, appealing to users who prefer physical keyboards. As more information becomes available, tech fans are eager to learn how this device will perform in the competitive smartphone market.

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  • Oppo Launches Reno 15 Pro Mini: 200MP Camera & 6200mAh Battery

    Oppo Launches Reno 15 Pro Mini: 200MP Camera & 6200mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo Reno15 Pro Mini features a 6.31-inch display, similar in size to the Apple iPhone 17.
    2. It has an IP69-rated, water-resistant body, a 6,200mAh battery, and supports rapid charging at 80 watts via USB-C.
    3. The smartphone boasts an impressive triple camera system with a 200MP primary sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP telephoto lens, along with a 50MP front camera.
    4. Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8450 processor, the device offers AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and peaks at 1,800 nits brightness.
    5. The Oppo Reno15 Pro Mini will initially launch in India, with pricing starting at approximately $670 for the 12GB RAM/256GB storage model.

    After the unveiling of the Oppo Reno 15 Pro in November, the new Oppo Reno15 Pro Mini has now been introduced. This Android smartphone features a 6.31-inch display, making it similar in size to the Apple iPhone 17. While some might argue that calling such a device “mini” is questionable, many compact smartphones today have displays that are about the same size.

    Design and Build

    The device comes with an IP69-rated, water-resistant body that is 0.31 inches thick and weighs 6.6 ounces. Despite its small size, Oppo has ingeniously included a 6,200mAh battery, which can charge through USB-C at a rapid 80 watts. One of the most notable aspects of this phone is its impressive triple camera system on the back. It includes a 200MP f/1.8 primary sensor, a 50MP f/2.0 ultra-wide lens, and another 50MP f/2.8 telephoto lens offering 3.5x optical zoom. On the front, there’s also a 50MP camera for selfies.

    Display and Performance

    The 6.31-inch display features AMOLED technology with a resolution of 2640 x 1216 pixels, a refresh rate of 120Hz, and a peak brightness of 1,800 nits. The smartphone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8450 processor, making the Reno 15 Pro Mini one of the speedy mid-range options on the market. Additionally, it supports a nano SIM and an eSIM, along with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4. The device includes a fingerprint sensor and runs on Android 16, but Oppo hasn’t mentioned how long it will provide software updates for the phone.

    Pricing and Availability

    Initially, the Oppo Reno15 Pro Mini will be released in India. Buyers can choose between a model with 12GB of RAM and 256GB storage for approximately $670, or a variant with 512GB storage priced around $725. Details about a possible global release have yet to be confirmed by Oppo.

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