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Category: Smartphone

Vivo X100 Series: Upcoming Camera-Focused Flagship Phones

Reports suggest that Vivo is preparing to launch its new Vivo X100 series of flagship smartphones, with a focus on photography, in China around mid-November. According to a leak from the Weibo tipster Panda is Bald, it appears that the launch is expected during the third week of November, with potential dates set for November 13, 14, or 15.

The leaks also provide insights into the camera capabilities, battery sizes, and charging speeds of the upcoming X100 and X100 Pro models. These details are based on unconfirmed information, but here’s what’s being rumored:

**Vivo X100:**
– Primary camera: Sony IMX920
– Battery size: 5,100mAh
– Wired charging: 120W
– Wireless charging: Not available (similar to the X90)

**Vivo X100 Pro:**
– Primary camera: Sony IMX989
– Battery size: 5,400mAh
– Wired charging: 100W
– Wireless charging: 50W

Additionally, some reports suggest that the X100 and X100 Pro may also include an IMX663 ultra-wide lens and a 64-megapixel periscope zoom camera in their camera setups. Last year, Vivo introduced the Vivo X90 Pro Plus, along with the X90 and X90 Pro, in December 2022. There are speculations that a possible X100 Pro+ model could be announced in the first quarter of 2024.

More information is available. For example, MediaTek is going to unveil the Dimensity 9300 chipset on November 6. Buyers are waiting for the mobile to come to the market around November. A report claims that the X100 series of phones is going to be similar to the Apple iPhone 15 Pro.

October 19, 2023
Protecting Your Galaxy S23 FE from Water Damage: Tips and Guidelines

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE has an IP68 rating, which means it is highly water-resistant but not 100% waterproof. This distinction is crucial to understand, as it means you don’t need to worry too much about accidental exposure to water, like spilling a drink on it or dropping it in the sink. In such cases, you can simply wipe it dry with a cloth and continue using it.

However, you should not submerge the Galaxy S23 FE in a pool or take it for a swim, as it is not designed for prolonged exposure to water. The IP68 rating is common among modern smartphones and offers strong dust and water resistance for everyday situations.

The “IP” in IP68 stands for ingress protection, and the first number represents dust resistance, while the second number indicates water resistance. The Galaxy S23 FE is considered dust-tight, and it has been tested to survive immersion for at least 30 minutes in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water.

It’s essential to note that this water resistance only applies to fresh water. Samsung advises against using the Galaxy S23 FE at the beach or pool due to the presence of saltwater or chlorinated pool water, which can damage the water-resistant seals. If your phone does come into contact with such water, rinse it off with fresh water as soon as possible.

You don’t need to panic if your Galaxy S23 FE gets a little wet from rain, a garden sprinkler, or even the kitchen sink. Just wipe it dry with a clean towel. If it falls into contaminated water, like saltwater, pool water, or your toilet, rinse it with fresh water, wipe it dry, and let it air dry naturally. Avoid using heat sources like a hair dryer, as this can harm your phone.

It’s crucial not to use soap or other cleaning agents on the Galaxy S23 FE, as these can wear down the waterproof seals. If you need to clean the phone after exposure to mud or other contaminants, use a cloth dampened with distilled water or an alcohol-based disinfectant.

While the Galaxy S23 FE is designed to withstand accidental water exposure, it is not waterproof, so it’s best to keep it away from moisture as much as possible. This includes avoiding heavy rainstorms and investing in a water-resistant case if you frequently use your phone in wet or outdoor environments.

Keep in mind that the water resistance of the Galaxy S23 FE can deteriorate over time, and any water damage is not covered by Samsung’s warranty. So, it’s essential to take precautions to protect your phone from direct exposure to water.

October 17, 2023
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Galaxy S23 Ultra: Which is best for you?

The Google Pixel 8 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra are two highly-anticipated smartphones. Both have unique features and capabilities that make them stand out. In this comparison, we will look at various aspects of these phones to help you decide which one is the right choice for you.

Design and Size

The Google Pixel 8 Pro doesn’t introduce significant design changes compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 7 Pro. It maintains a similar aesthetic but adds a more prominent rear camera strip and slightly curved corners. The device is available in three color options: Bay, Porcelain, and Obsidian.

In terms of size, the Pixel 8 Pro remains almost the same as its predecessor, with dimensions of 163.3 x 78 x 8.9 mm and a weight of 213 grams. It features an aluminum and glass build.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, on the other hand, doesn’t skimp on design either. Its design emphasizes raw performance and is slightly larger. The device is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and offers excellent performance, particularly in graphics-intensive tasks.

Performance

The Pixel 8 Pro features Google’s custom Tensor G3 chip, designed to cater to artificial intelligence and machine learning needs rather than raw performance. It’s a 64-bit chip with nine cores, including a prime Cortex-X3 core running at 3GHz. The GPU and TPU cores are also upgraded, promising better gaming performance and enhanced AI and machine learning capabilities.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, focuses on raw performance. It offers excellent overall performance, particularly in graphics-intensive tasks. The device outperforms the Pixel 8 Pro in terms of raw power, making it suitable for demanding users.

Camera Capabilities

Both phones offer impressive camera capabilities. The Pixel 8 Pro comes with a 50MP main camera with a wider aperture, a 48MP ultra-wide camera, and a 48MP 5.0X optical zoom telephoto lens. These improvements promise better low-light performance and overall image quality. The Pixel 8 Pro also includes various software and AI-powered features to enhance the camera experience.

The Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts a 200MP main camera that combines 16 pixels into one, resulting in detailed 12MP images. It also features a 12MP ultra-wide camera, a 3.0X optical zoom camera, and a 10MP periscope camera with 10X optical zoom. The Galaxy S23 Ultra delivers detailed images with natural-looking colors and improved low-light performance.

While the Pixel 8 Pro provides better dynamics and more natural-looking photos, the Galaxy S23 Ultra tends to slightly overexpose images and oversharpen them. The choice between the two phones depends on your preference for photo aesthetics.

Battery Life

The Pixel 8 Pro is equipped with a 5,050mAh battery, offering a similar battery life to its predecessor, the Pixel 7 Pro. Google expects a 31-hour battery life, and the new chip is designed for efficiency. However, it remains to be seen how it performs in custom battery tests. The Galaxy S23 Ultra also features a 5,000mAh battery and surpasses its predecessor in battery life. It outperforms the Pixel 7 Pro in various tests but may face a challenge from the Pixel 8 Pro in custom battery tests.

October 15, 2023
iPhone 16 Pro to Feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 for Enhanced 5G

Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are set to provide enhanced 5G capabilities, thanks to Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon X75 modem, according to tech analyst Jeff Pu. This addition will enable faster and more energy-efficient 5G connectivity for these new iPhone models.

In a recent research note with investment firm Haitong International Securities, Pu disclosed that the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will come equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 modem. However, Pu anticipates that the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will stick with the Snapdragon X70 modem, which was used for the entire iPhone 15 lineup. This represents a shift in Apple’s typical strategy, as they have historically used the same Qualcomm modem across all models in each iPhone generation. This exclusion of the standard iPhone 16 models from the upgrade would be a change in approach for the company.

The Snapdragon X75, introduced in February 2023, brings several improvements, including advanced carrier aggregation and other technology enhancements that contribute to faster 5G download and upload speeds compared to the previous X70 model. The modem’s combined mmWave and sub-6GHz 5G transceiver is more space-efficient, taking up 25% less circuit board space, and it is also more power-efficient, using up to 20% less power, according to reports.

An important feature of the Snapdragon X75 is its support for the latest “5G Advanced” standard, which signifies a significant step forward in the realm of 5G technology, often described as the precursor to 6G. 5G Advanced is expected to introduce artificial intelligence and machine learning enhancements that will result in improved 5G performance. Moreover, it will expand the reach of 5G technology to a wider range of devices and applications.

In the marketing sphere, it is anticipated that Apple will emphasize the “5G Advanced” capabilities of the iPhone 16 Pro models, similar to how the iPhone 6s was marketed with “LTE Advanced” support in 2015.

While Apple has reportedly been developing its own 5G modem for iPhones since 2018, the project has encountered several development challenges. The launch of such a modem, if it ever comes to fruition, is not expected before 2025 or later. In the meantime, Apple has extended its 5G modem agreement with Qualcomm through 2026. Apple is projected to unveil the iPhone 16 lineup in September 2024, so there is still ample time before these devices become available to the public.

October 14, 2023
Hexa²Pixel” Trademark: Samsung’s Path to a 432MP Camera Sensor

In July 2022, Samsung filed for a trademark called “Hexa²Pixel,” hinting at a new camera sensor technology. This technology, when applied to a camera sensor, would enable 36:1 pixel binning, a process where data from neighboring pixels is combined to produce better photos with reduced noise.

The name “Hexa²Pixel” suggests a pixel binning factor of 36, as hexa means six, and six squared equals 36. When Samsung filed for this trademark, they showcased post-binning images with resolutions ranging from 12MP to 12.5MP, using the 108MP sensor found in the Galaxy S22 Ultra. By multiplying these resolutions by 36, we arrived at a potential range of 432MP to 450MP.

Recent information from a reputable source, known as Revegnus, indicates that Samsung is indeed working on a new camera sensor series called ISOCELL HW. The first two sensors in this series, HW1 and HW2, are expected to feature nearly 1-inch sensor sizes. The HW1 sensor will offer an impressive 432MP resolution with a sensor size of 1/1.05″ and a pixel size of 0.56 micrometers. Meanwhile, the HW2 sensor will also boast a 432MP resolution and a size close to 1-inch, measuring at 1/1.07″ with a pixel size of 0.5 micrometers.

Revegnus also provided insights into Samsung’s upcoming foldable devices. The Galaxy Fold 6 is rumored to continue using the 50MP GN3 image sensor, which is currently employed in the Galaxy Z Fold 5. On the other hand, the Galaxy Fold 7 is expected to feature a significant upgrade in its camera department, with a 200MP ISOCELL HP5 sensor. This sensor will have a sensor size of 1/1.3-inch and a pixel size of 0.5 micrometers.

Back in August, the same source revealed that Samsung is gearing up to mass-produce several new ISOCELL image sensors in the second half of 2024. These include the 200MP HP7 sensor with 0.6μm pixels, a 50MP GN6 sensor, and an impressive 440MP HU1 sensor.

It’s fascinating to see how a simple mathematical deduction based on the “Hexa²Pixel” trademark filing accurately predicted a camera sensor with a 432MP resolution. However, what remains uncertain is when Samsung will introduce a smartphone with this remarkable 432MP camera. The Galaxy S24 Ultra might not be the candidate, so the earliest possibility could be the Galaxy S25 Ultra in 2025. But it’s more likely that we’ll see this advanced camera sensor in either the Galaxy S26 Ultra or the Galaxy S27 Ultra.

October 9, 2023
Durable by Design: The 5 Best Rugged Smartphones

Rugged smartphones are tough and durable devices designed to withstand harsh environments and conditions. They come equipped with special features that set them apart from regular smartphones used in everyday life. In this article, we will discuss the top 5 rugged smartphones available today.

1. Nokia XR20

Nokia introduced the XR20 in 2021, showcasing its commitment to producing durable devices. This smartphone is designed to meet the military standard of MIL-STD-810H, ensuring its ruggedness. Nokia has a strong reputation for producing reliable and long-lasting phones. The XR20 also supports 5G connectivity, making it a versatile choice for users.

2. Motorola Defy

The Motorola Defy is far from an ordinary smartphone. Its thermoplastic frame design sets it apart. The phone is certified to military standards, allowing it to thrive in extreme conditions. It can withstand exposure to sand, dust, and water. The display is protected by Victus Gorilla Glass, and the Defy features a high-quality camera for various photography needs.

3. Doogee S98 Pro

The Doogee S98 Pro is considered one of the best rugged smartphones of 2023. It boasts exceptional battery life, a bright display, night vision capabilities, and a thermal imaging camera. Its rugged and durable design is reinforced with Gorilla Glass, ensuring its longevity. However, it’s important to note that this phone does not support 5G connectivity.

4. Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro

Samsung’s Galaxy XCover Pro is another strong contender in the rugged smartphone category. Initially released in 2020, it meets military grade MIL-STD-810G certification standards. This smartphone is tailored for business settings and offers enhanced security features. To unlock the phone, users can utilize both a fingerprint scanner and facial recognition.

5. CAT S62 Pro

The CAT S62 Pro, part of the CAT Phone lineup by Bullitt Group Limited, earns its place among the best rugged smartphones in 2023. This advanced device provides instant access to professional-grade thermal imaging. As a durable smartphone, the CAT S62 Pro is waterproof, dustproof, and more, making it suitable for challenging environments.

These rugged smartphones cater to users who require a device that can handle tough conditions, whether for work or adventure. While each phone comes with its own set of features and specifications, they all share a commitment to durability and resilience. Whether you’re in a demanding job or simply seeking a phone that can withstand the elements, these rugged smartphones have you covered.

October 9, 2023
OnePlus 11R 5G Solar Red Edition: Smartphone with Eco-Friendly Leather

OnePlus is set to launch a new smartphone, the OnePlus 11R 5G Solar Red Edition, on October 7. This special edition device will be introduced in India and comes with distinctive features.

The standout feature of the OnePlus 11R 5G Solar Red Edition is its red back panel made from eco-friendly leather, setting it apart from the standard model. It boasts an impressive 18GB of RAM and a spacious 512GB of built-in storage.

Aside from these unique aspects, the phone retains its core specifications, including a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor. The device features a camera setup comprising a 50MP primary camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 2MP sensor. To keep you going all day, it comes with a substantial 5000mAh battery, supporting fast charging at 100W.

While the phone’s standout features have been highlighted, its price remains undisclosed for now. OnePlus enthusiasts can look forward to the official launch of the OnePlus 11R 5G Solar Red Edition in India on October 7.

October 5, 2023
Google’s new At a Glance widget: What’s Changing and Why You’ll Love It

Google’s At a Glance widget is getting a fresh new look, and it’s bringing some exciting updates to your smartphone. This widget is a handy tool that keeps you informed about your upcoming appointments, weather alerts, commute details, and even flight information. However, its design has been a bit outdated, but Google is changing that with its latest feature drop.

The new At a Glance widget has started showing up on various devices with Google app version 14.39.35.28, which is currently in beta. Although some users have reported seeing it with different versions, it seems like this change is being rolled out through a server-side update. After updating the Google app, the new widget might not appear right away; in some cases, a simple device restart did the trick. If you’re already using the At a Glance widget, don’t worry – the new version will automatically replace the old one, so there’s no need for manual steps.

Now, let’s talk about the redesigned At a Glance widget. It’s quite a departure from the old design and even the current one on Pixel phones. While its core functionality remains the same, the new widget sports a pill-shaped outline with weather information presented in a small, Material You-inspired shape on the right side. Plus, there’s a new three-dot menu in the middle, positioned between the date (or current activity) and the weather.

This menu allows you to dive right into the widget’s options, where you can choose which events and reminders you want to see and customize the widget’s appearance with style settings. These style settings offer options for a solid, transparent, or semi-transparent background, allowing you to tailor the widget to your preferences.

Google initially announced this revamped widget as part of its quarterly feature drop for Android in September. Google stated that the new version would utilize AI to provide you with the most relevant information at your fingertips. However, as of now, there haven’t been any new AI-driven features spotted as part of the redesign. Google had hinted at these changes in previous app teardowns, but no significant AI features have surfaced.

It’s worth noting that the At a Glance widget on Pixel phones may not see the same style overhaul. Google might choose to maintain its current appearance on its own phones, especially considering that this widget is not removable on Pixel devices. This approach allows the widget to remain unobtrusive, ensuring that your favorite wallpaper remains prominently displayed.

In addition to the At a Glance widget update, Google is also rolling out a Material You-inspired redesign for its weather forecast feature. This complements the new look of the At a Glance widget perfectly, providing a cohesive visual experience across your device.

September 28, 2023
Xiaomi 14 Pro: Unveiling the Revolutionary Variable Aperture Camera

The Xiaomi 14 Pro is generating significant buzz in the smartphone world, and it’s not without reason. This upcoming device is rumored to boast some impressive specifications, ranging from a high-resolution display to an elegant design and an enhanced camera setup. Speaking of cameras, a well-known tipster, Digital Chat Station, has recently leaked some details about the Xiaomi 14 Pro’s camera specifications.

According to the latest rumors, the Xiaomi 14 Pro is slated to feature a primary camera sensor with a whopping 50-megapixel resolution. What makes this sensor even more intriguing is its variable aperture, which can adjust from a wide f/1.4 to a smaller f/4.0. As of now, variable aperture technology has been exclusive to Xiaomi’s flagship model, the 13 Ultra. However, it appears that Xiaomi is expanding this feature to the Pro version of the upcoming 14 series. This variable aperture will enable the smartphone’s camera to capture abundant light, even in challenging low-light conditions.

In terms of camera hardware, the leaks suggest that the Xiaomi 14 Pro will house three rear cameras, all with 50-megapixel sensors. The main camera will boast an impressive 1-inch Sony IMX9xx series sensor, promising exceptional image quality. Additionally, one of the other cameras is expected to be a telemacro camera, which could enhance the device’s photography capabilities even further.

Beyond its camera prowess, the Xiaomi 14 Pro is anticipated to sport a 2K display with ultra-thin bezels, delivering a visually stunning experience. Xiaomi is also introducing a new base material aimed at reducing eye strain, demonstrating its commitment to user comfort. The device is expected to be powered by a robust 4860mAh battery, ensuring prolonged usage on a single charge. Furthermore, it will feature a large X-axis motor for haptic feedback, enhancing the overall user experience.

Regarding other key specifications, previous reports have suggested that the Xiaomi 14 Pro will be equipped with the highly-anticipated Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, promising top-tier performance. The device is also rumored to incorporate a titanium alloy frame, which not only adds to its durability but also gives it a premium look and feel. Another interesting addition is support for satellite connectivity, which could be particularly useful in regions with limited traditional network coverage.

September 28, 2023
Enduring Appeal of iPhone: What Makes It So Loved Worldwide

The iPhone is beloved by people all around the world, and its popularity only seems to grow with each new model release. Despite its higher price point compared to other smartphones, the iPhone’s appeal remains strong. Let’s explore some of the key reasons why people have such a deep affection for the iPhone.

The iPhone boasts a unique and iconic design that sets it apart from other devices. Its distinctive appearance ensures that you can easily recognize an iPhone at a glance.

Apple’s dedication to simplicity and user-friendliness is evident in the iPhone’s interface. With just a single button, users can navigate through various functions and access the main menu effortlessly. In contrast, many Android devices feature multiple buttons, which some users find cumbersome to operate.

iPhones are known for delivering a smooth and seamless software experience. Apple’s iOS is meticulously designed to minimize bugs and glitches, ensuring a stable and enjoyable user experience.

In an era where digital security is paramount, the iPhone stands out as a secure choice. Apple places a strong emphasis on protecting user data, making it difficult for hackers to breach iPhone security. Even when requested by intelligence agencies or authorities, Apple is reluctant to divulge users’ personal information.

Apple’s strict policy of allowing only approved, third-party applications on its devices enhances security. Users can confidently download and install apps from the Apple App Store, knowing that they have been thoroughly vetted. In contrast, Android devices are more susceptible to unauthorized and potentially harmful third-party apps.

Apple manufactures many of the iPhone’s components in-house, ensuring both quality and consistency. This commitment to excellence sets iPhones apart from some Android devices, which may compromise on the quality of their components.

The iPhone’s operating system continuously introduces innovative features and surprises that captivate users. Apple’s commitment to providing regular software updates ensures that even older iPhone models receive new features and improvements.

Apple has built an impressive ecosystem of devices that seamlessly integrate with one another. iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches can all be connected to create a cohesive ecosystem. Additionally, users can easily connect their Apple devices through features like AirPods and Bluetooth.

Apple’s dedication to providing software updates for its devices for several years ensures that iPhone users can enjoy the latest features and security enhancements. This long-term support contributes to the iPhone’s popularity.

Apple’s widespread network of service centers and customer support facilities ensures that users have access to assistance when needed. This convenience further enhances the overall iPhone experience and makes it a practical choice for daily life.

September 27, 2023