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Category: Tech Gadgets

Easy Guide to Check Your Android Phone’s Battery Health

Have you noticed that your phone’s battery doesn’t last as long as it used to? It can be frustrating, especially if you charged it not too long ago. This guide will help you check your Android phone’s battery health using simple methods, whether you have a fancy or budget phone.

Understanding Battery Health

Battery health is like a report card for your phone’s battery. It tells you how well it’s doing over time. This includes information about how much power it can hold, its temperature, and how many times it has been charged. Checking your battery health is essential to understand if your phone’s battery is getting weaker.

Method 1: Settings App Battery Check

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Look for “Battery” or use the search bar to find it.
3. Select “Battery usage.”

Here, you’ll see which apps are using the most power. If you tap on the three dots in the top right corner, you can see more details, like your phone’s overall usage since the last full charge.

Method 2: Dialing a Code

1. Open your Phone app.
2. Dial *#*#4636#*#*.

This code might not work on all phones, but if it does, it will show you information about your phone, including the battery. Look for “Battery information” to see details about your battery’s health, charge level, and temperature.

Method 3: Samsung Phone Users

If you have a Samsung phone, you can use the Samsung Members app to check your battery health.

1. Open the Samsung Members app.
2. Select “Diagnostics.”
3. Tap on “Battery status.”

Here, you’ll find details about your battery health, life, and capacity. If it says “Normal battery status” and “Life: Good,” your battery is doing well. If not, you might want to think about getting a new battery.

When to Replace Your Battery

Remember, phone batteries have a limited life. If your phone turns off suddenly, responds slowly, or the battery doesn’t last long after charging, it might be time for a new battery or even a new phone. Checking your Android phone’s battery health is easy, and it can help you understand why your battery might not be performing as well as it used to.

November 21, 2023
Nubia Z60 Ultra: A Glimpse into the Upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Flagship

Nubia is getting ready to launch two new phones in China powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The Red Magic 9 Pro series, featuring this new chip, is set to be released later this week, while the Z60 Ultra is expected to debut in December. In a recent leak, tipster Digital Chat Station revealed some camera features and reiterated the expected launch timeframe for the ZTE Z60 Ultra.

According to Digital Chat Station, the upcoming Nubia Z60 Ultra is rumored to include an under-display front camera and a 35mm camera. Notably, even the ultra-wide-angle camera has been upgraded to the top configuration, with sensor specifications considered the largest in the industry. It is also said to support optical image stabilization (OIS).

The tipster added that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered flagship will be unveiled in December. In a newer Weibo post, the tipster shared an image that he had already released back in August. He said that the prototype device shown on the right, which appears to be the Z60 Ultra, has a very prominent protrusion.

In August, the tipster claimed that the device is equipped with a 1-inch Sony IMX989 35mm primary camera. However, the tipster has mentioned that Nubia has not yet incorporated the IMX989 35mm sensor in the Z60 Ultra. Hence, it is unclear which primary camera will be available on the device.

The detailed specifications of the Z60 Ultra haven’t been leaked yet, but a recent Geekbench listing revealed that it will arrive with 12 GB RAM and Android 14. In terms of market positioning, it is set to rival the likes of the Xiaomi 14 Pro, iQOO 12 Pro, Vivo X100 Pro, OnePlus 12, Realme GT 5 Pro, Meizu 21 series, Oppo Find X7 Pro, and Honor Magic 6 Pro in the Chinese market. Except for the X100 Pro, which has the Dimensity 9300 chip, all other flagship phones are equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC.

November 20, 2023
Xiaomi 14 Ultra Unveiled: Boasting a Massive 5500 mAh Battery

Xiaomi is set to launch its new smartphone, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, and recent leaks have revealed an impressive feature – a massive 5500 mAh battery capacity. This surpasses the previous model, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, and even outshines the Xiaomi 12S Ultra. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting revelation and explore what else the Xiaomi 14 Ultra has to offer.

The Xiaomi Ultra series is known for its focus on camera capabilities. The transition to a 5500 mAh battery in the Xiaomi 14 Ultra aims to address concerns about limited battery life during intensive camera usage, a challenge observed in earlier models.

While the upgraded battery is promising, factors like screen brightness and processor power also influence battery consumption. Detailed reviews post-launch will clarify if the Xiaomi 14 Ultra truly delivers extended and uninterrupted battery performance.

Leaks suggest another exciting feature for photography enthusiasts – the Xiaomi 14 Ultra might feature the Omnivision OV50K camera. While specifics are unconfirmed, the Omnivision OV50K hints at Xiaomi’s commitment to enhancing photography capabilities.

Omnivision sensors are known for advanced imaging technology, promising improved low-light performance and enhanced image quality. If the leaks hold true, users can expect stunning photos and videos from the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, solidifying its position in the smartphone camera arena.

With the inevitable impact of camera usage on battery life, users are advised to consider energy-saving measures for an optimal experience. While leaks can be speculative, Xiaomi’s consistent progression in battery capacity suggests a deliberate strategy to address user concerns.

As we await the official launch, Xiaomi seems determined to provide a device that not only meets but exceeds user expectations. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra, with its robust battery and potential camera features, has generated significant interest among smartphone enthusiasts worldwide.

November 19, 2023
Unihertz Tank 3: Smartphone with 23,800mAh Battery and 200MP Camera

Unihertz, a smartphone brand from China, has launched a new phone named Tank 3. This is the third version of their Tank series. Unlike the previous models, Tank 3 comes with 5G connectivity, and the most remarkable feature is its huge battery – a massive 23,800mAh. This gigantic battery can last for a very long time, offering 1,800 hours of standby time, 118 hours of call time, 98 hours of music playback, 48 hours of video playback, and 38 hours of gaming. The phone supports super-fast charging at 120W, and it can even share its battery power with other devices.

The rest of the specifications are impressive as well. Tank 3 runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chip, has 16GB of RAM, and a massive storage space of 512GB. It operates on Android 13 and allows for additional storage through MicroSD cards (up to 2TB).

The phone has a large 6.79-inch display with a resolution of 2460 x 1080 pixels and a fast 120Hz refresh rate. The camera setup is also quite powerful, with a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 64MP night vision camera. For selfies, it features a 50MP front camera.

In addition to these features, the Unihertz Tank 3 is designed to be rugged and durable. It has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The phone includes several useful features like a 40m laser range finder, an infrared sensor, a powerful LED flashlight with 1200 lumens brightness, two customizable side buttons, and a fingerprint sensor.

The phone offers various connectivity options such as dual SIM, sub-6GHz 5G, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, GNSS, and NFC. In terms of size, it measures 179 x 86 x 31mm and weighs 666g. If you are interested in purchasing the Unihertz Tank 3, it is available for $499.99, and you can buy it on AliExpress.

November 15, 2023
Alpha 9 III: World’s First Global Shutter Full-Frame Camera

Sony has recently launched a groundbreaking camera called the Alpha 9 III. This camera is the first in the world to feature a full-frame global shutter system, making it one of the most advanced mirrorless cameras available. In addition to its impressive photography capabilities, the Alpha 9 III also offers exceptional video features. Below, we’ll delve into the details of this innovative camera.

The Alpha 9 III is equipped with a full-frame global shutter image sensor, setting it apart from traditional rolling shutter sensors. Unlike rolling shutter sensors that capture images sequentially from the top row of pixels to the bottom, the global shutter sensor exposes and reads all pixels simultaneously. This unique feature enables the camera to achieve high-speed shooting of up to 120 frames per second without distortion or blackout. Paired with Sony’s advanced autofocus (AF) system, which incorporates AI autofocus capable of up to 120 times AF/AE focus calculations per second, the Alpha 9 III ensures that photographers can capture every moment with precision.

This camera comes with a stacked CMOS image sensor boasting approximately 24.6 effective megapixels and built-in memory. Combined with the latest image processing engine, BIONZ XR, the Alpha 9 III offers blackout-free continuous shooting speeds of up to 120 frames per second with AF/AE tracking. It features high-density focal plane phase-detection AF and uses an AI processing unit for Real-time Recognition AF. This allows the camera to recognize a wide range of subjects with impressive accuracy.

In addition to its exceptional photography capabilities, the Alpha 9 III provides high-quality image rendering thanks to its 8.0 stops of optical 5-axis in-body image stabilization. This ensures that images remain sharp even in challenging shooting conditions.

One of the standout features of the Alpha 9 III is its global shutter technology, which eliminates distortion and banding artifacts. This technology enables the camera to achieve a maximum shutter speed of 1/80,000 second, allowing for high-speed photography without distortion. When used with a compatible Sony flash, it can synchronize the flash at all shutter speeds up to 1/80,000 second. This feature is particularly useful in situations where capturing fast-moving subjects is essential.

Furthermore, the Alpha 9 III offers a Hi Frequency Flicker function that significantly reduces flicker issues when shooting stills or videos under LED lighting. This function adjusts the shutter speed to match the flicker frequency, ensuring consistent lighting and image quality.

The camera introduces selectable release lag modes, allowing users to prioritize release lag or viewfinder/monitor display. A newly developed Pre-Capture function allows the camera to continuously record up to one second before the shutter is released, ensuring that critical moments are captured. The Continuous Shooting Speed Boost function allows users to change to a faster preset speed during shooting, further enhancing its versatility.

The Alpha 9 III features customizable focus areas, offering expanded options from XS to XL in addition to the previous S, M, and L sizes. It also includes the Preset Focus/Zoom function, allowing users to save preset focus and zoom settings for quick recall.

The camera boasts an array of other enhancements, such as the latest AF algorithms for high AF precision even in low light conditions. It can achieve AF precision down to EV-5 in AF-S mode with an F2.0 lens. The Alpha 9 III also supports AF tracking for continuous shooting at F22 and offers a composite RAW shooting function to combine multiple consecutive images into a high-quality composite.

The global shutter image sensor enhances video performance, allowing for distortion-free videos. It can record 4K 120p high-frame-rate video without cropping, preserving the intended angle of view. Additionally, the camera can shoot high-resolution 4K 60p videos with 6K oversampling, delivering superb video quality.

The Alpha 9 III offers numerous video improvements over its predecessor, including 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording and 16-bit raw output via the full-size HDMI port to an external recorder. It also includes Picture Profiles such as S-Log3 and S-Cinetone for optimizing the image for various workflows.

One unique feature of the Alpha 9 III is S-Cinetone, which produces a cinematic look without the need for post-processing. This feature was developed based on Sony’s high-end cinema camera, the VENICE, and enhances skin tones and subject highlights, resulting in a natural, cinematic appearance. The camera also supports LUT (lookup table) import when shooting in Log mode.

November 9, 2023
Vivo’s BlueOS: A Breakthrough in Smartphone Operating Systems

Vivo, a Chinese smartphone manufacturer, has introduced its very own operating system known as BlueOS. This announcement was made at the 2023 Vivo Developer Conference. The development of BlueOS began in 2018, and it was created to overcome the limitations of the Android app ecosystem. Notably, BlueOS is the world’s first operating system to utilize the Rust programming language for its system framework.

BlueOS boasts three primary features: smart interactions, a smoother user experience, and user data safety. The operating system is designed to accommodate large models and various input methods, such as voice, text, gestures, and even brain waves. It also supports the BlueXlink connection protocol, which facilitates secure data transfer and access between multiple devices, thanks to its distributed design concept.

In terms of performance, Vivo claims that BlueOS has significantly reduced memory usage by 67% and improved rendering efficiency by 48%. Additionally, it incorporates a super coroutine mechanism, which enhances response speed by 18%. From a security standpoint, the Rust-based system framework of BlueOS is less vulnerable to security issues arising from improper memory usage.

One notable aspect of BlueOS is its versatility. It can run on a wide range of devices, including those with as little as 32MB of RAM. This makes it a viable option for various devices, including smart home appliances and wearables.

However, it’s important to note that Vivo has not revealed any immediate plans to install BlueOS on its smartphones. For now, the default operating systems for Vivo smartphones will remain Funtouch OS and OriginOS. The first device set to ship with the BlueOS operating system is Vivo’s upcoming smartwatch, the Vivo Watch 3. This smartwatch is scheduled for release on November 13, alongside the Vivo X100 series smartphones.

November 2, 2023
Installing Third-Party Apps on Android: A Simple Guide to APK Files

Android smartphones offer the option to use third-party applications, but there are some risks involved when getting these apps from sources other than the Google Play Store. Before using such applications, it’s important to understand how to properly open files with the APK extension. Unlike iPhones, Android smartphones allow users to install applications from third-party sources. This flexibility is one of the reasons why Android is so popular. There are situations where you may need to use a specific application that is not available on the Google Play Store.

So, what is an APK file? APK stands for Android Application Package. It’s designed to work on the Android operating system. To use an APK file, you need to download the single file and then install it on your Android device. Getting familiar with this process will provide you with a unique experience while using your smartphone. Let’s discuss the correct way to open an APK file on your Android smartphone.

1. Find a Reliable Source: First and foremost, you should find a trustworthy marketplace or website that offers the APK files you need.

2. Opening the APK File: Once you’ve downloaded an APK file, it’s time to open it and install the application. You can typically find the downloaded files in your device’s “Downloads” folder.

3. App Info Settings: After opening the APK file, your device may prompt you to grant permissions for the installation. You can access the “App Info” option in your device’s settings.

4. Enabling Unknown Sources: To install applications from sources other than the Google Play Store, you need to enable the “Install Unknown Apps” option. This can usually be found in the “Advanced Options” or “Security” section of your device’s settings.

5. Easier Installation: Once you’ve allowed your device to install apps from unknown sources, you’ll be able to install the application easily. Just follow the on-screen instructions.

In some cases, you might come across both the main APK file and an OBB format file. By following these steps, you should be able to install applications that are not available on the Google Play Store without any hassle. Keep in mind that while installing apps from third-party sources can provide more flexibility, it also comes with some security risks. It’s essential to be cautious and only download APK files from trusted and reputable sources to ensure your device’s safety.

November 2, 2023
Upcoming November Smartphone Releases: Exciting Features and Innovations

In November, several popular smartphone brands are set to release new and exciting devices. Among these, smartphones featuring the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset will be a significant highlight. Let’s take a closer look at the upcoming smartphone releases for November:

1. Oppo A2:
– Launch Date: November 11 (China)
– Key Features: Slim 8mm body, 6.72-inch Full HD Plus display, Dimensity 6020 chipset, 12GB RAM, 512GB storage, 50-megapixel primary camera, 8-megapixel selfie camera, and a powerful 5000mAh battery.

2. Vivo X100 Series:
– Launch Date: November 17 (China)
– Key Features: Innovative periscope zoom camera with APO gold lens, Qualcomm Snapdragon Gen 3 chipset, and a unique design.

3. Samsung Galaxy A15:
– Launch Date: November
– Key Features: Available in both 4G and 5G versions, 6.5-inch full HD plus display, 50-megapixel primary camera, 13-megapixel selfie camera, fingerprint sensor, and a 5000mAh battery.

4. Techno Spark 20 Series and Spark Go 2024:
– Launch Date: November
– Key Features: A series of three smartphones featuring Helio and Unisc chipsets. The Spark 20 Pro offers a 5000mAh battery and 33W fast charging, while details about its chipset are pending.

5. Realme GT 5 Pro:
– Launch Date: November (China)
– Key Features: A next-generation flagship smartphone from Realme, powered by Qualcomm. It boasts a 6.7-inch display, a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 32-megapixel selfie camera, an advanced cooling system, a massive 5400mAh battery, and impressive 50W wireless charging.

These smartphones are expected to bring a range of innovative features and capabilities to the market, catering to various user preferences. Keep an eye out for these exciting releases in November!

November 1, 2023
Lumia: A Brand Worth Remembering, Not Reviving

Lumia, once a beloved brand, is no longer with us. It was a part of the story involving Nokia’s Devices and Services department and Microsoft’s Windows Phone OS. However, things could have turned out differently if Microsoft had chosen to develop both hardware and software, creating a more memorable user experience.

During Nokia’s reign, Lumia phones were quite remarkable. The operating system at the time was WP8.1, which many considered the best. Nokia invested heavily in additional software experiences, creating a fantastic combination that offered one of the best smartphone experiences of its time.

Then, Microsoft decided to go its own way, resulting in the Surface Phone, which was discontinued after several years. The concept was promising, and it was unfortunate to see it abandoned. Even Microsoft’s current CEO, Satya Nadella, acknowledges the potential. He believes that having a Windows OS for smartphones could have enhanced the Microsoft ecosystem.

However, this doesn’t mean Microsoft will revive the Lumia brand or re-enter the smartphone business. In fact, it might be best not to. Microsoft had its chance and, unfortunately, didn’t make the most of it. Some things are better left as cherished memories, brought to life in projects like the MobilePhone Museum. Attempting to revive the brand could risk diminishing the value of the once glorious Lumia smartphones.

Even a brand like Motorola is currently facing challenges in maintaining its presence in the market, despite substantial financial investments. However, at least Motorola’s logo still graces some excellent products. Reviving a brand should be a careful and thoughtful decision, as it can either rekindle the brand’s glory or further fade its legacy.

October 31, 2023
Samsung’s Odyssey OLED G9: The Ultimate Gaming Display

Samsung, the well-known tech company, has come up with a fantastic gaming monitor, the Odyssey OLED G9. It’s one of the best monitors you can get for gaming, and it has some surprising features. This monitor is huge, measuring 49 inches diagonally. It’s like having two 27-inch monitors side by side. At first, I thought it might be too big and impractical, but after spending time with it, I was blown away by its productivity and gaming abilities. It’s hard to go back to a regular ultrawide monitor after using this.

The design of the Odyssey OLED G9 is impressive. It’s a metal design with a sleek silver frame. The previous version had a bulky plastic back, but this one is much more manageable on a desk, thanks to the slim frame and a slight curve. One cool feature is the CoreSync ring, which has RGB lighting around the stand. It adds a nice touch, especially in dark rooms, but it’s not very bright, so you won’t notice it much in well-lit spaces.

The monitor comes with a sturdy metal stand, but it doesn’t offer a lot of adjustment options. You can change the height a bit and tilt it slightly, but that’s about it. However, Samsung includes a VESA adapter, which lets you mount the monitor for more flexibility.

The Odyssey OLED G9 has all the right ports for your devices. It has full-size HDMI and DisplayPort ports, which is great because it means you don’t need special cables. It also has a Micro HDMI port. The only downside is that it has three USB-C ports, which might not be ideal since most peripherals still use USB-A.

Now, let’s talk about the most important thing: the screen quality. The Odyssey OLED G9 delivers an amazing image with fantastic color coverage and accuracy. In SDR mode, it covers 100% of sRGB, 98% of DCI-P3, and 95% of AdobeRGB, which are some of the highest numbers you can find. The color error is low, making it great for color work.

It’s also a great gaming monitor in terms of performance. It has a 240Hz display with low response times, which makes games incredibly responsive. It also supports variable refresh rates with FreeSync Premium Pro, no matter what graphics card you have.

However, keep in mind that this monitor demands a lot from your PC because of its high resolution. It’s almost as demanding as 4K, so you’ll need a powerful PC to make the most of it.

However, with some effort, you can make the most of the 32:9 aspect ratio. Samsung Multi View allows you to split the screen to show different sources. This is especially useful for streaming while gaming, as you can have your game on one side and your stream information on the other.

The monitor also runs on Samsung’s Tizen OS, which means you can access streaming apps and more. You can even connect a controller or a keyboard and mouse via Bluetooth. It’s a versatile monitor that goes beyond just gaming.

October 30, 2023