Tag: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

  • Xiaomi 17 Ultra: Flagship Camera Phone Launch Coming Soon

    Xiaomi 17 Ultra: Flagship Camera Phone Launch Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to launch this month, ahead of previous “Ultra” models.
    2. Pre-orders may start between December 15 and December 25, with a possible announcement on December 18.
    3. The device is anticipated to feature a 1-inch main camera but may drop the secondary zoom camera for a single upgraded zoom lens.
    4. It will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, similar to other models in the series.
    5. The launch price is expected to be similar to the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, with global availability likely after February.


    After the release of the Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max in September, Xiaomi is gearing up to introduce its top-tier smartphone for this generation, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. It seems that this device might be launching sooner than previously speculated.

    Launch Timeline

    Leaker Smart Pikachu has shared that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to make its debut this month. This would be quite unexpected, as February is usually the earliest any previous “Ultra” model has been released in the series. Reports suggest that pre-orders for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra could start between December 15 and December 25, with buzz on Weibo hinting at a possible announcement on December 18.

    Camera Specifications

    The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to feature a 1-inch main camera, which would make it the final flagship phone to include this type of camera. However, various reports indicate that it may drop its secondary zoom camera, opting instead for a single upgraded zoom lens.

    Performance and Pricing

    Similar to its counterparts, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. It’s also believed that the launch price will remain largely the same as that of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. It’s important to mention, however, that while the Xiaomi 17 Ultra might launch soon in China, it’s not likely to be available globally until after February, potentially debuting alongside other Xiaomi 17 series models at MWC.

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  • Galaxy S26 Ultra Leak: Upcoming Color Options Revealed

    Galaxy S26 Ultra Leak: Upcoming Color Options Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is set to launch the Galaxy S26 series with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 technology.
    2. New wallpapers in One UI 8.5 hint at potential color options for the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
    3. Possible color variants include orange, silver, white, pink, black, and turquoise, totaling up to six choices.
    4. Some color options may be exclusive to online sales, with orange likely falling into this category.
    5. A hidden code in One UI 8.5 confirms a significant upgrade for the Galaxy S26 series.


    Samsung is preparing to unveil its new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 smartphone collection, the Galaxy S26 series. Although the company hasn’t made an official announcement yet, recent leaks have provided a wealth of information about the upcoming devices. Now, details about the potential color choices for the S26 Ultra have come to light.

    New Wallpapers Hint at Color Options

    Specifically, a batch of new wallpapers found in One UI 8.5 is thought to showcase the color selections for the Galaxy S26 Ultra. While the source of the leak may not be as prominent as some other insiders, the reliable leaker Ice Universe appears to validate this information.

    Among the wallpapers that have leaked, one features an orange design, indicating that the phone might come in an orange variant. This aligns with previous leaks that have suggested the same.

    Color Variants for the S26 Ultra

    In addition to the orange-themed wallpaper, there are also wallpapers in silver, white, pink, black, and turquoise. This hints that there could be as many as six color choices for the Galaxy S26 Ultra. However, it’s likely that not every option will be available in regular retail outlets (256 GB S25 Ultra curr. $899.99 on Amazon).

    As with previous series, Samsung may limit some colors to online-only exclusives, and the orange option could possibly fall into this category. Notable tipster Max Jambor has previously suggested that the standard color options for the S26 Ultra will include Black, White, Silver, and Pink. Furthermore, these wallpapers are not the only things that have recently come to light with One UI 8.5. A hidden code within this update has confirmed a long-awaited upgrade for the Galaxy S26 series, which we have discussed in another piece.

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  • Vivo X300 Ultra to Outshine X200 Ultra with Enhanced Battery

    Vivo X300 Ultra to Outshine X200 Ultra with Enhanced Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vivo is not expected to replace the X200 Ultra flagship soon but is working on the X300 Ultra smartphone.
    2. The anticipated launch date for the X300 Ultra is in the first quarter of 2026.
    3. The X300 Ultra is expected to have a significant battery improvement, potentially featuring a 7,000 mAh capacity.
    4. The upcoming device may include a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and advanced camera technology.
    5. A global release for the X300 Ultra is rumored, though specific details and specifications have not been confirmed yet.


    Vivo is not likely to introduce a replacement for its X200 Ultra flagship anytime soon. However, a well-known leaker on Weibo, Smart Pikachu, has shared some early insights about Vivo’s upcoming Ultra-branded smartphone. For now, the device is being referred to as the X300 Ultra, following the recent launches of the X300 and X300 Pro.

    Anticipated Launch Timeline

    Reiterating previous speculations, Smart Pikachu mentioned that Vivo aims for a release in the first quarter of 2026 to compete with the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Samsung’s upcoming successor to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is currently priced at $899 on Amazon. To provide some additional context, Digital Chat Station reported last week that Vivo plans to have the X300 Ultra ready by March, which would be less than a year after the launch of the X200 Ultra in China. Unfortunately, neither leaker has provided any detailed specifications so far, although rumors suggest that a global release might also be in the pipeline.

    Battery Improvements Expected

    In place of specific details, Smart Pikachu has suggested that Vivo will implement a notable battery enhancement compared to the X200 Ultra. For reference, the X200 Ultra is equipped with a 6,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery across all markets. In contrast, the X300 and X300 Pro come with battery capacities of 6,040 mAh and 6,510 mAh, respectively, except in Europe.

    Sources indicate that the X300 Ultra will outdo all three of these models with an impressive approximately 7,000 mAh battery. It’s still uncertain if it will approach the 7,500 mAh capacity available in the Oppo Find X9 Pro. Currently, Vivo is also anticipated to pair this upgraded battery with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and camera technology that may feature a 35 mm primary lens along with Sony’s latest Lytia 901 sensor.

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  • Honor Magic 8 Pro with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Launches Globally

    Honor Magic 8 Pro with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Launches Globally

    Key Takeaways

    1. Honor launched the Magic 8 series in China in mid-October 2025, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.
    2. The Honor Magic 8 Pro is available for pre-order in Malaysia, with prices starting at RM 4,599 for 12 GB RAM and 512 GB storage.
    3. The Malaysian model specifications are similar to the Chinese version, including a 7,100 mAh battery with 80 W wireless and 100 W wired fast charging.
    4. The Magic 8 Pro features a 6.71-inch display with a brightness rating of 1,800 nits and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    5. The camera system on the Magic 8 Pro performs well, capable of capturing highly detailed images in various situations.


    Honor has launched its Magic 8 series in China in mid-October 2025, marking the debut of two flagship smartphones that utilize the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. Among these, the Honor Magic 8 Pro is now making its way to markets beyond China.

    Pre-order Details in Malaysia

    Currently, the Honor Magic 8 Pro is available for pre-order in Malaysia. The model featuring 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage is listed at a pre-sale price of RM 4,599. Additionally, there is a different configuration with 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, which is priced at RM 5,199.

    When converted to US dollars, these Malaysian prices come to approximately $1,113 and $1,258, respectively. The retail values for these models are around $847 and $946. To make the pre-order more enticing, Honor is including an Insta360 Ace Pro in the package, along with other promotional offers.

    Specifications Overview

    The specifications of the Malaysian Honor Magic 8 Pro align with those of its Chinese version. It boasts a substantial 7,100 mAh battery that supports both 80 W wireless and 100 W wired fast charging (the 160 W Anker Prime charger is currently $99.99 on Amazon). Another standout feature is its 6.71-inch display, which has an impressive HBM brightness rating of 1,800 nits and a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate.

    Camera Performance

    In terms of photography, our evaluations show that the camera system of the Magic 8 Pro is quite adept at handling various situations. This Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 device is capable of capturing highly detailed images. For further information, you can check out our launch coverage regarding the phone.

    Honor MY

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  • Honor Magic 8 Ultra: Dominating iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S25

    Honor Magic 8 Ultra: Dominating iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S25

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Honor Magic 8 Ultra will feature 120 W wired charging, surpassing previous models and competitors.
    2. It has been certified to charge at up to 20V/6A, with the ability to use 66 W charging at varying levels.
    3. The smartphone will include satellite connectivity and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.
    4. It will utilize an OmniVision OV50R sensor for its main camera.
    5. The Magic 8 Ultra is expected to have a larger battery than the 7,200 mAh battery in the Magic 8 Pro and may launch in early 2026.


    More information on Honor’s upcoming flagship smartphone has come to light thanks to the 3C regulatory authority and Digital Chat Station. Just last month, Honor revealed the Magic 8 and Magic 8 Pro, both equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipsets. However, rumors and leaks about a device called the Magic 8 Ultra have been floating around since the summer.

    Charging Capabilities

    It now appears that this device will feature 120 W wired charging, which would outdo not only the Magic 8 and Magic 8 Pro but also the Magic 7 RSR Porsche Design that was launched last December. In fact, the Magic 8 Ultra could pull in over 2.5 times the power from the outlet compared to other top-tier devices like the iPhone 17 Pro Max, Galaxy S25 Ultra, and the Pixel 10 Pro XL (currently $899 on Amazon).

    Specifications and Features

    To achieve this impressive charging speed, Honor has given the Magic 8 Ultra certification to charge at up to 20V/6A. The smartphone also has the flexibility to utilize 66 W charging at different levels of wattage and amps when needed. Digital Chat Station mentioned on Weibo that the Magic 8 Ultra will feature satellite connectivity and will come with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, along with an OmniVision OV50R sensor for its main camera. Additionally, it’s anticipated that the Magic 8 Ultra will have a bigger battery than the 7,200 mAh one found in the Magic 8 Pro, but it might not launch until early 2026, coinciding with the release of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra.

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  • Xiaomi 17 Ultra Camera Specs Leak: Triple-Lens Setup Revealed

    Xiaomi 17 Ultra Camera Specs Leak: Triple-Lens Setup Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra will feature a simplified triple rear camera system, moving away from the quad-camera setup of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
    2. The dedicated 50MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom will be removed in the new model.
    3. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is rumored to include a 200MP zoom sensor from Samsung, though this is still speculative.
    4. The device will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and will launch with HyperOS 3, featuring advanced AI capabilities.
    5. A version of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra supporting satellite communication may be introduced for the global market.


    New information about the Xiaomi 17 Ultra indicates a shift in the company’s flagship camera approach. Instead of keeping or increasing the number of lenses, recent leaks of the phone’s photography accessories suggest a simpler design: it will come with a triple rear camera system. Additionally, another source has confirmed this change and provided more details about the camera specifications for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra.

    Changes in Camera Setup

    Currently, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has a quad-camera system, which notably includes two zoom lenses. However, it seems that the upcoming model will eliminate one of these zoom lenses, marking a departure from its predecessor.

    The latest information has surfaced from Xiaomi Time, which claims that the company will remove the dedicated 50MP telephoto camera (3x optical zoom) found in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. The final camera specifications for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra are expected to include the following sensors:

    Speculation on Fewer Sensors

    The exact reason for reducing the number of rear camera sensors has yet to be disclosed. Reports from September suggested that Samsung was producing continuous zoom camera sensors, with major Chinese brands being the first to adopt them. The Xiaomi Mi 17 Ultra is rumored to feature a 200MP zoom sensor from Samsung, which opens up possibilities. However, this remains speculation at this point.

    In terms of specifications, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will utilize Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. The device is anticipated to ship with HyperOS 3 right away, incorporating advanced AI features that will enhance the new camera system. Additionally, the company might introduce a version that supports satellite communication in the global market.

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  • iQOO 15 Launches in India: Gaming Phone with Snapdragon 8 Elite 5

    iQOO 15 Launches in India: Gaming Phone with Snapdragon 8 Elite 5

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iQOO 15 has launched in India with a starting price of INR 72,999 for the 12 GB + 256 GB model and INR 79,999 for the 16 GB + 512 GB model.
    2. Launch promotion offers discounted prices of INR 64,999 and INR 71,999 for the respective models, with open sales starting on December 1.
    3. The smartphone features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, up to 16 GB of RAM, and runs on Origin OS based on Android 16, with promises of five Android updates and seven years of security updates.
    4. It boasts a 6.85-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,440p, a peak brightness of 6,000 nits, and a refresh rate of 144 Hz, along with a triple camera setup of three 50 MP lenses.
    5. The device includes a 7,000 mAh battery with 100 W wired and 40 W wireless charging, alongside features like NFC, stereo speakers, an IP68/IP69 water resistance rating, and support for eSIM.


    iQOO, which is Vivo’s brand that focuses on gaming smartphones, recently unveiled the iQOO 15 in China last month. The company has now officially rolled out this new gaming smartphone in India. It comes in three colors: Alpha, Legend, and Grey. The starting price for the iQOO 15 is INR 72,999 (about $815 or €705) for the entry-level 12 GB + 256 GB model, while the higher-end 16 GB + 512 GB version costs INR 79,999 (around $895 or €775).

    Launch Offers and Availability

    As part of its launch promotion, both models will be sold at a discounted price of INR 64,999 (roughly $728) and INR 71,999 ($806), respectively. The smartphone will go on open sale starting December 1 through iQOO’s official website and on Amazon. Additionally, it is set to launch in several other countries, including Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Russia, on dates between November 28 and December 9.

    Specifications and Features

    There are no differences between the Chinese and Indian versions in terms of specs. Competing directly with the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (currently priced at $1,019 on Amazon), the iQOO 15 is powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset alongside iQOO’s Q3 computing chip. It offers up to 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage, although there’s no option to expand the storage. The phone runs on Origin OS, which is based on Android 16, and the company has committed to providing five Android updates (versions 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21) and seven years of security updates until 2031.

    Display and Camera

    The device features a 6.85-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,440p, a peak brightness of 6,000 nits, and a refresh rate of 144 Hz. Additionally, the display supports Dolby Vision and includes an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. On the back, there’s a triple camera setup that includes a 50 MP main camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50 MP periscope telephoto camera.

    The iQOO 15 is equipped with a substantial 7,000 mAh Si/C battery that allows for 100 W wired charging and 40 W wireless charging. Other notable features consist of NFC, an IR blaster, stereo speakers, vibrant halo lights, an IP68 and IP69 rating for water resistance, and support for eSIM.

     

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  • Xiaomi Launches Poco F8 Ultra at $729 to Compete with Snapdragon 8

    Xiaomi Launches Poco F8 Ultra at $729 to Compete with Snapdragon 8

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi launched the Poco F8 Ultra featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, the first globally to do so.
    2. The Poco F8 Ultra has a 6.9-inch AMOLED display with a vibrant 120 Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 3,500 nits.
    3. It features a triple rear camera setup with three 50 MP sensors, including a telephoto lens and a 32 MP front camera.
    4. The device supports 50 W wireless and 100 W wired charging, with a 6,500 mAh battery that is 23% larger than its predecessor.
    5. Pricing starts at $679 for 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage, with pre-order prices set to increase after December 10.


    Xiaomi has recently unveiled the Xiaomi 17, Xiaomi 17 Pro, and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max in September. Nevertheless, the Poco F8 Ultra is the first smartphone from the company to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset on a global scale. It comes equipped with a 6.9-inch AMOLED screen, making it similar in size to the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. The Poco F8 Ultra is also around 3 mm taller, 3 mm wider, and 0.5 mm thinner than its predecessor, the Poco F7 Ultra, which is currently priced at $747 on Amazon.

    Enhanced Display and Audio

    The Poco F8 Ultra boasts several improvements over the Poco F7 Ultra, including a more vibrant 120 Hz display that can reach up to 3,500 nits (APL 25%) while offering a resolution of 2,608 x 1,200 pixels. Furthermore, Xiaomi has incorporated three speakers with a subwoofer tuned by Bose, strategically placed near the device’s triple rear-facing camera system. These cameras are all 50 MP sensors, featuring a primary camera with a 1/1.31-inch sensor and an f/1.67 aperture, along with a telephoto lens (5x/OIS) and an f/2.4 ultra-wide-angle camera.

    Impressive Camera Features

    Additionally, the Poco F8 Ultra is equipped with a 32 MP front camera, completing an outstanding camera setup. The device also supports 50 W wireless and 100 W wired charging, allowing it to quickly recharge its 6,500 mAh battery. To put this into perspective, this battery capacity is about 23% larger than the 5,300 mAh battery found in the Poco F7 Ultra.

    The Poco F8 Ultra can now be pre-ordered for $679, coming with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. Alternatively, consumers can choose the version with 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage for $729. It’s worth mentioning that these prices will rise to $729 and $799, respectively, once Xiaomi’s Early Bird special concludes on December 10.

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  • iQoo 15 Mini Leak: Small Screen, Same Battery, Launch Date Insights

    iQoo 15 Mini Leak: Small Screen, Same Battery, Launch Date Insights

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iQoo 15 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and debuted in China last month, with plans for a global release.
    2. Rumors suggest a compact version, the iQoo 15 Mini, is in development, featuring a smaller 6.3-inch display and potentially a Dimensity 9500 processor.
    3. The iQoo 15 Mini may come with a large 7,000mAh battery and an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, similar to the standard model.
    4. The expected launch date for the iQoo 15 Mini is around April 2026, with other compact phones from different brands also anticipated next year.
    5. An ‘Ultra’ version of the iQoo 15 series is being considered, but details are limited and no official confirmations have been made.


    The iQoo 15 marks the latest flagship device from the brand, running on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. It made its debut in China last month and is expected to hit additional markets in the near future. At the same time, there are rumors about a more compact version of the smartphone being developed.

    Launch Speculations

    Prior to its official announcement, the phone had surfaced in various leaks, leading to doubts about its release. An earlier leak, referenced by GSMArena, hinted that the phone might have been scrapped. However, well-known tipster Smart Pikachu has now stated that the compact version will indeed be launched.

    Compact Features

    The rumored iQoo 15 Mini is expected to have a 6.3-inch display, in contrast to the standard model’s larger 6.85-inch screen. It may also incorporate the Dimensity 9500 processor, although some leaks have suggested the use of the overclocked Dimensity 9500 Plus chipset. Importantly, the device could come equipped with a hefty 7,000mAh battery, similar to its larger counterpart. Furthermore, it might boast a metal frame along with an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner.

    Expected Launch Timeline

    According to the tipster, the iQoo 15 Mini is anticipated to launch around April 2026. In addition, more compact phones are likely to debut next year, which includes the OnePlus 15T and Oppo Find X9s. Honor is also rumored to be preparing the release of the Magic 8 Mini.

    iQoo is reportedly planning to introduce an ‘Ultra’ version within the iQoo 15 series, although details about this model remain scarce. It’s important to note that there is no official confirmation regarding any of these devices, so it’s wise to take the information with a grain of salt. On a related note, the company has announced that the standard iQoo 15 will be available in India on November 26.

     

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  • Oppo Find N6 vs Galaxy Z Fold 7: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Launch

    Oppo Find N6 vs Galaxy Z Fold 7: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Oppo was the first to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset in the Find N5, which still has the best battery life after nine months.
    2. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 has taken the titles of thinnest and lightest foldable smartphone, priced at $1,599 on Amazon.
    3. Samsung is not expected to release a new Galaxy Z Fold7 until mid-next year, while Oppo plans to lead the foldable market again in 2026.
    4. The upcoming Find N6 will feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and may include satellite connectivity in a specific variant.
    5. It’s unclear if Oppo will return to the smaller design used in earlier models like the Find N and Find N2.


    Oppo made history as the first smartphone manufacturer to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset when it released the Find N5 in February this year. Even after nine months, the Find N5 still holds the record for battery life but has lost its titles for being the thinnest and lightest to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, which is currently priced at $1,599 on Amazon.

    Future of Samsung and Oppo

    Samsung is not predicted to unveil a new Galaxy Z Fold7 until around the middle of next year. However, Digital Chat Station has indicated that Oppo plans to once again get ahead of Samsung in 2026, along with competitors like Honor and Vivo. Recent information hints that Vivo is gearing up to launch the X Fold6, which will also feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 along with several other enhancements.

    What’s New with the Find N6?

    In contrast, Digital Chat Station emphasizes that the Find N6 will be the first foldable smartphone to come with Qualcomm’s upgraded Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. At this point, it remains uncertain if Qualcomm will produce a 7-core version of its top-tier chipset, which was exclusively available in the Find N5 for the Snapdragon 8 Elite lineup.

    The leaker has also mentioned that the Find N6 will include satellite connectivity, similar to its predecessor. If the Find N5 is any indication, Oppo is likely to offer this satellite feature in a specific variant instead of across all models. However, it’s not guaranteed that this variant will be available for sale worldwide. It is also still unknown if Oppo will revert to the smaller design it first introduced with the Find N and Find N2, despite hints from executives during the summer.

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