Tag: smartphones

  • Motorola Targets Top 3 Smartphone Maker Spot Globally in 3 Years

    Motorola Targets Top 3 Smartphone Maker Spot Globally in 3 Years

    Lenovo Mobile Business senior vice president and Motorola president Sergio Buniac recently outlined his vision for Motorola’s smartphone division. His goal is to elevate Motorola to one of the top three smartphone brands globally, excluding China. Buniac noted that the company has consistently held its third-place position in both the North American and Latin American markets.

    Motorola is Taking Steps and Seeing Success

    An internal initiative called the “Gladiator Project” has been launched by the company. This plan involves three major changes in business strategy. First, the company aims to expand its business with a special focus on markets outside of Latin America and North America. This marks a significant shift from its previous strategy of contraction.

    Secondly, Motorola plans to strengthen its presence in the high-end smartphone market with its Razr and Edge series devices. Collaborations with brands like Pantone and Bose are aimed at attracting Gen Z, particularly female users, as well as B2B customers.

    Positive Results from Revamped Strategies

    The new strategies are already yielding positive outcomes. The shipment volume of the Moto Razr 40 lineup from last year is reportedly five times higher than its predecessor. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, the company has seen a 12% year-on-year increase in smartphone activations, with high-end phones making up 25% of this growth. Revenue in the Asia-Pacific and EMEA markets has surged by 88% and 40%, respectively. Sergio Buniac believes that Motorola’s smartphone business has transitioned from “fighting for survival” to “fighting for victory” over the past six years.

    In Q4 2022, Motorola’s market share was 6% in the US and an impressive 24% in Latin America, placing it second only to Samsung in the latter region. However, the company’s presence in the Chinese market remains relatively weak.

    Deeper Integration of Artificial Intelligence

    Motorola is also working on integrating artificial intelligence more deeply into its smartphones. Sergio Buniac predicted that in the near future, smartphones will offer a personalized user experience powered by AI based on user interactions.

  • iQOO Neo 9 Pro and Other Upcoming Smartphones

    iQOO Neo 9 Pro and Other Upcoming Smartphones

    Not many smartphones are expected to launch in the next few days. Only two brands have confirmed to debut new handsets.

    Vivo Y series

    Vivo will unveil a mid-range model under its Y series. The pricing and specifications of the device have not been revealed yet. However, it is expected to come with decent features and performance.

    iQOO Neo series

    On the other hand, iQOO will announce a flagship-killer handset under its Neo series. Again, the pricing and specifications of this device are still a mystery. However, iQOO is known for offering high-end specifications at an affordable price, so expectations are high for this upcoming release.

    Overall, while there may not be a flood of new smartphones hitting the market in the next few days, Vivo and iQOO are set to bring some excitement with their new releases. Stay tuned for more updates!

    Upcoming Smartphones Next Week

  • Different color options of stunning renders revealed in Huawei Pocket S2 leaks

    Different color options of stunning renders revealed in Huawei Pocket S2 leaks

    Huawei is set to expand its clamshell foldable smartphone lineup with the upcoming launch of the Pocket S2. Leaked renders have revealed the new color options that will be available for the device.

    Huawei Pocket S2 Renders

    Shared by tipster Fixed Focus on Weibo, the leaks showcase three distinct shades for the Pocket S2: Dark Purple, Rococo White, and Black. Each color option offers its own unique appeal, with Rococo White standing out due to its detailed, classic pattern that sets it apart from the plain textures of the Dark Purple and Black variants.

    Design and Aesthetics

    The design of the Pocket S2 retains the familiar dual circular modules on the back, with one housing a triple-lens camera setup accompanied by an LED flash, while the other serves as an external screen. This design element maintains continuity with its predecessor, the Pocket S, while introducing subtle changes in aesthetics, especially with the Rococo White variant. The aesthetics of the White variant bear a striking resemblance to the P60 series.

    According to previous disclosures by DCS, we can expect additional color options such as Grey with a glass back and a Purple variant with a leather back.

    Potential Launch Date

    Leaks suggest that the potential launch date for the Pocket S2 is February 26th. Although Huawei has not officially confirmed this, the timing aligns with the company’s typical release cycle.

    Internal Specifications

    Leaks indicate that the Pocket S2 will feature a powerful Kirin 9000 5G chipset, an upgraded main camera, and a larger cover screen compared to its predecessor, the Pocket S. Exciting accessories, including a large-letter phone case, are also rumored to be in the works.

    It is important to note that these are just leaks, and the official specifications may vary. However, they provide a glimpse of a foldable phone that combines style with high performance.

  • In 2023, Apple Dominates Smartphone Sales with Seven iPhone Models; Samsung Trails with Three Phones

    In 2023, Apple Dominates Smartphone Sales with Seven iPhone Models; Samsung Trails with Three Phones

    As per last month’s report, Apple toppled Samsung for the first time in 13 years as the top smartphone brand. Now, research firm Canalys is back with new data on the top 10 smartphones shipped last year across the world. Unsurprisingly, Apple once again dominated the list with the most devices. However, none of the other smartphone brands other than Apple and Samsung made it to the list. Read the entire details below.

    Apple ships the most smartphones in 2023

    As per Canalys report, the iPhone 14 Pro Max was the most-sold smartphone globally with 34 million units. The iPhone 15 Pro Max came close second with 33 million units after launching in September. The third spot was taken by the iPhone 14 with 29 million shipments. The iPhone 14 Pro and the two-year-old iPhone 13 bagged the fourth and fifth spots with 29 and 23 million units shipped respectively.

    The top five devices sold last year came from Apple

    The iPhone 15 Pro was seventh in the list selling 21 million units. The standard iPhone 15 rounded the list of top 10 with 17 million units. The iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus are notable mentions missing from the list.

    Only three phones from Samsung made it to the top 10

    Only three phones from Samsung were among the top 10 selling smartphones last year. Notably, they belonged to the South Korean brand’s Galaxy A-series. These include the Galaxy A14 4G at sixth place with 21 million sales. The other two were the Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A14 5G at the eighth and ninth spots respectively.

    No other brand including OnePlus, Xiaomi, Vivo etc made it to the list of most phones sold last year.


  • Take a Look at the First HMD Phone, Reliving the Nokia Lumia Era

    Take a Look at the First HMD Phone, Reliving the Nokia Lumia Era

    HMD Global’s First Smartphone: A Sneak Peek

    HMD Global, the company behind NokiaMobile, is set to release its first smartphone soon. In a recent development, the NokiaMobile account has been renamed to HMD, indicating that the launch is imminent. Adding to the excitement, HMD has now shared another image of its upcoming device on its official website, confirming previous leaks.

    A Glimpse of the First HMD Phone

    The image reveals the phone in a stunning Pink color option, with a rectangular-shaped camera module in Black. The device showcases a boxy design, reminiscent of the iconic Nokia Lumia era. What’s interesting is that the side frame seamlessly blends with the back panel, giving it a sleek and unified look. Additionally, the HMD phone is also seen in a Blue color option, although no further details are divulged.

    HMD’s Vision for the Future

    HMD Global aims to create phones that are built to last. Their devices are designed to be durable, fun, fast, secure, and affordable. While the exact launch date of the HMD phone remains a mystery, rumors suggest that the company might unveil its first devices at the upcoming Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, later this month. The highly anticipated tech exhibition is scheduled to commence on February 26.

    Promising Features and Codenames

    Previous leaks have provided some insights into the HMD phone’s specifications. A leaked promotional image revealed a whopping 108MP primary camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) support. Additionally, a render of the smartphone showcased a center-aligned punch-hole display. Renowned tipster Evan Blass has also shared that HMD has six phones in the pipeline, codenamed Pulse, Legend, Pulse+, Legend Plus, Pulse Pro, and Legend Pro.

    Excitement is building up as HMD Global’s first smartphone draws closer to its official launch. With its nostalgic design and promising features, the HMD phone is expected to make a splash in the mobile market. Stay tuned for more updates on this much-anticipated device.

  • 3 new Power series smartphones to be launched by itel in India next month

    3 new Power series smartphones to be launched by itel in India next month

    itel Power series smartphones are set to be launched in India in February, according to a recent report. The company is said to be releasing three new models from its Power series, with an official announcement expected soon. The first model in the series will run on the Android 14 Go edition, which is typically reserved for entry-level phones. This suggests that the device will also have an affordable price tag. The second model will feature ultra-fast charging capabilities, while the third model will come with an exclusive India-first memory feature.

    itel to launch three new smartphones

    According to sources close to the matter, itel will be hosting a launch event next month to unveil its new Power series smartphones. While the exact launch date is still unknown, an official announcement is expected to be made soon. The company is known for its budget-friendly devices, and these new models are likely to follow suit.

    Android 14 Go edition and budget pricing

    The first model in the Power series will come with the Android 14 Go edition out of the box. This version of Android is specifically designed for entry-level phones, offering optimized performance and storage efficiency. As a result, itel's upcoming device is expected to have a budget-friendly price tag, making it an attractive option for price-conscious consumers.

    Ultra-fast charging and India-first memory feature

    The second itel Power phone will boast ultra-fast charging capabilities, allowing users to quickly recharge their devices. This feature is particularly useful for individuals who are always on the go and need their smartphones to be ready at a moment's notice. Additionally, the third model in the Power lineup will come with an exclusive India-first memory feature, enhancing the user experience for Indian consumers.

    Design similarities to itel P55+

    A marketing image of one of the new itel Power series smartphones has been shared, giving us a glimpse of its design. The device features a dual camera setup on the rear and a punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera on the front. This design is reminiscent of the itel P55+, which was recently launched in Africa. It remains to be seen whether there will be any additional design elements or improvements in the upcoming models.

    Stay tuned for more updates on itel's Power series smartphones as more information becomes available. With its focus on budget-friendly devices and attractive features, itel is likely to generate interest among Indian consumers looking for affordable yet reliable smartphones.

  • Newly Released Infinix Smart 8 Plus Comes with a 90Hz Display, Helio G36, and a Powerful 6,000mAh Battery

    Newly Released Infinix Smart 8 Plus Comes with a 90Hz Display, Helio G36, and a Powerful 6,000mAh Battery

    Infinix Launches Smart 8 Plus: Specifications and Features

    Infinix, the popular smartphone brand, has introduced its latest addition to the Smart 8 series in India – the Infinix Smart 8 Plus. This comes shortly after the brand unveiled the Smart 8 Pro on its global website. Although the price and availability of the Smart 8 Plus have not been officially announced, let’s take a closer look at its specifications and features.

    Impressive Display and Camera Setup

    The Infinix Smart 8 Plus boasts a 6.6-inch IPS LCD panel with a centrally-aligned punch-hole design. It offers an HD+ resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels, a 20:9 aspect ratio, a 90Hz refresh rate, and up to 500 nits of brightness. On the front, users will find an 8-megapixel selfie camera, while the back panel houses a 50-megapixel main camera, an AI lens, and a quad-LED flash.

    Powerful Performance and Ample Storage

    Under the hood, the Smart 8 Plus is powered by the Helio G36 chip. It comes with 4 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and offers two storage options – 64 GB and 128 GB. Additionally, users can expand the storage further using a microSD card slot. The device runs on XOS 13-based Android 13 Go and features a side-facing fingerprint sensor for enhanced security.

    Long-lasting Battery and Connectivity Options

    Equipped with a massive 6,000mAh battery, the Smart 8 Plus ensures long hours of usage. It supports 18W charging through a USB-C port. The device also offers dual SIM functionality, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It measures 163.65 x 75.7 x 8.95mm and weighs 204 grams.

    Price and Availability

    While Infinix is yet to disclose the price and availability details of the Smart 8 Plus, it is expected to be competitively priced. The smartphone will be available in four attractive color options – Timber Black, Galaxy White, and Shiny Gold.

    Stay tuned for further updates on the release of the Infinix Smart 8 Plus in India!

  • Impact of China’s ban on iPhone and Samsung smartphones heightens, affecting global tech giants

    Impact of China’s ban on iPhone and Samsung smartphones heightens, affecting global tech giants

    Chinese Government Expands Ban on Non-Chinese Smartphones, Including iPhones and Samsung Galaxy Devices

    The strained relations between China and the United States have intensified further as the Chinese government extends its ban on non-Chinese smartphones. This ban, which was initially implemented in select states, has now spread to eight provinces, including prosperous coastal regions. As a result, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on the global smartphone market.

    Desire to Reduce Dependence on US Technologies

    Motivated by a desire to decrease reliance on US-based technologies, the Chinese government has instructed state-affiliated firms and government offices to prohibit the use of non-Chinese smartphones among their employees. Notably, this ban includes popular devices like iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones, with employees being advised against bringing these devices to their workplaces.

    Nationwide Effort to Promote Local Technologies

    Over the past decade, the ban's scope has expanded from a few states to a nationwide effort, showcasing China's long-term strategy to promote local technologies and semiconductor chip manufacturing. Although the Chinese government officially denies an outright ban on iPhones and Samsung phones, reports suggest varying levels of enforcement across different government agencies, with employees being encouraged to opt for local brands instead.

    Impact on the Global Smartphone Market

    This ban is expected to have a significant impact on the global smartphone market, particularly affecting Apple and Samsung. Anticipated reductions in iPhone and Samsung phone sales in China, the world's largest smartphone market, have already led to a decline in Apple's shares. Furthermore, the ban has created a ripple effect, impacting the share prices of Apple's suppliers, including LG Innotek and Minebea Mitsumi.

    Unofficial Spread of the Ban

    In response to the ban, smaller firms in lower-tier cities are reportedly issuing verbal directives to employees to stop using non-Chinese phones. This unofficial spread of the ban highlights the broader implications for foreign smartphone manufacturers operating in China.

    Potential Drop in iPhone Sales

    While Apple has not provided an immediate response to the ban, market analysts predict a significant drop in iPhone sales, which will impact Apple's revenue in the coming months and years. Conversely, local Chinese firms like Huawei are expected to benefit from the ban, experiencing increased smartphone sales.

    Paradigm Shift in the Global Tech Industry

    As the ban continues to expand and more Chinese agencies and state-backed companies implement the prohibition for their staff, the global tech landscape faces ongoing challenges. China's emphasis on local software and semiconductor chip manufacturing represents a broader trend of the nation reducing its reliance on foreign technology across various sectors. This shift marks a significant change in the global tech industry.