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Category: Smartphone

Samsung’s Smart City: Behind-the-Scenes Look at Smartphone Manufacturing

Twice a year, Samsung unveils its latest devices at Galaxy Unpacked, showcasing years of research and development that goes into creating innovative gadgets. While we rarely get a glimpse into the manufacturing process, I recently had the unique opportunity to tour Samsung’s “Smart City,” where they build devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5. Join me on this journey as we delve into the impressive world of smartphone production.

Touring smartphone manufacturing facilities is a rarity, and I was excited to get a firsthand look at how these devices come to life. While I’ve had the chance to visit similar facilities before, this time, I was better prepared with notes and an eager attitude to learn. Let’s explore the incredible processes that enable Samsung to pack so much technology into our pocket-sized devices.

Located in Gumi, a city southeast of Seoul in South Korea, Samsung’s Smart City is a hub of industrial activity. Spread over a significant area, it accommodates multiple campuses, dormitories, a hospital, a school, and various centers for employees. It’s here that Samsung conducts extensive research and development to optimize their manufacturing and assembly processes. With a staggering 6 billion smartphones produced globally across all its factories, Smart City plays a pivotal role in Samsung’s innovation.

The journey through Smart City begins with a walk down memory lane in Samsung’s smartphone museum. Here, a variety of iconic devices, such as the first Galaxy S and the groundbreaking Galaxy Edge, are showcased. An entire room is dedicated to displaying every smartphone model Samsung has ever made, giving an impressive overview of the company’s evolution in mobile technology. As a tech enthusiast, seeing all these devices in one place was truly awe-inspiring.

Our tour took us to a room where cross-sections of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 were on display. Each part was meticulously arranged to reveal how components are stacked inside these innovative devices. This served as a sneak peek of what we’d witness later on the assembly line.

The heart of the manufacturing process lies in the assembly line. In Samsung’s Gumi facility, 25 assembly lines work in harmony, with 16 currently operational. These lines not only produce Samsung’s own devices but also cater to other OEMs, highlighting the company’s prowess in contract manufacturing. Walking between two assembly lines assembling the Galaxy S23 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold 5, I gained a deep appreciation for the complexity and precision involved.

Assembled devices undergo rigorous testing, with various robots conducting inspections. Water resistance tests involve air expansion within the device, while camera parallax correction ensures optimal photo alignment. A low failure rate of 0.7% showcases the quality of Samsung’s manufacturing. While automation has streamlined much of the process, the final packing step still relies on manual labor.

Samsung is on the path to full automation, with plans to automate the entire assembly process by year-end. Despite advancements, certain steps still require human touch. Notably, packing and labeling are steps yet to be fully automated. Still, Samsung’s commitment to automation and optimization is evident in the advanced machinery and robotics employed.

A highlight of the tour was the automation testing lab, where devices are subjected to various conditions and simulations. From accelerated aging to Bluetooth connectivity tests, Samsung’s dedication to real-world scenarios is impressive. Their innovative software tie-ins enhance the testing experience, ensuring devices perform exceptionally even under demanding conditions.

Touring Samsung’s Smart City offered a rare glimpse into the evolution of smartphones. From manufacturing techniques to testing procedures, I witnessed the dedication to innovation that drives Samsung forward. The meticulous attention to detail, commitment to quality, and ongoing pursuit of automation are all evident in the devices that end up in our pockets and on our wrists.

source: androidcentral

August 23, 2023
Galaxy S24 Ultra’s Titanium Frame: A Bold Move or a Safe Evolution?

Samsung’s upcoming flagship phone lineup, the Galaxy S24 series, has been generating a lot of buzz lately, despite the fact that there are still several months to go before the official reveal. In a recent leak, attention was drawn to the rumored titanium frame of the S24 Ultra, with an intriguing detail: this change won’t impact the phone’s weight.

Now, additional details are emerging from renowned leaker Ice Universe, shedding light on the regular Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24 Plus models. Traditionally, Samsung has maintained a consistent design across its flagship phones, characterized by a smooth, curved aesthetic resembling a pebble. However, according to Ice Universe, a design shift is in store for the Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus. Specifically, these models are rumored to feature flat sides.

While Apple’s iPhone has previously transitioned from flat sides to curved and back to flat, the Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus represent Samsung’s first foray into flat-sided frames. A key distinction here is that current iPhones possess flat sides all around.

But here’s the question: if the regular Galaxy S24 models are adopting flat sides, will the Galaxy S24 Ultra follow suit? As of now, Ice Universe hasn’t provided any hints that the Ultra variant will undergo a similar change. Therefore, it’s reasonable to anticipate that the Ultra will maintain its predecessor’s design, at least for the time being.

An intriguing consideration in this design shift is the potential impact on the feel and look of the phones. Preferences regarding flat versus curved frames are quite subjective. Some users argue that flat sides are uncomfortable to hold, while others contend that they provide a more secure grip. Furthermore, proponents of boxier shapes claim that such designs facilitate optimal spacing of internal components.

Beyond practical considerations, Samsung might be aiming to introduce a fresh appearance to its flagship lineup. The Galaxy S series has retained a consistent look over the years, and this might be an opportune time to experiment with something new, especially given the incremental nature of recent upgrades.

August 22, 2023
Quad-Bayer Sensor: A Game-Changer in Photography, Advantages and Insights

The new OM System ‘Olympus’ OM-1 camera introduces an intriguing feature called the ‘quad-Bayer’ sensor design. This article aims to explain the concept, along with its advantages and drawbacks. The quad-Bayer sensor design employs a Bayer color filter array where each ‘red’, ‘green’, or ‘blue’ filter patch covers four pixels instead of just one. This is shown in the illustration below, comparing the standard Bayer array with the quad-Bayer alternative.

It’s important to clarify some terms here – while manufacturers often refer to the pixel as a ‘photo-diode’, each of the four pixels beneath a color filter functions independently and can be read separately. This design wouldn’t make sense otherwise. Initially, the quad-Bayer arrangement might seem to halve the sensor’s resolution, but there’s a reason behind it, as we’ll explore later.

This quad-Bayer sensor approach is commonly seen in smartphones. You might wonder how a phone’s lens provides enough resolution for sensors with up to 100MP. The answer is that it can’t. However, a small pixel aperture can help increase resolution. In phones, the quad-Bayer setup allows the combination of all four pixels in low light conditions. In brighter lighting, the pixels are used individually, enhancing sharpness by effectively reducing the pixel aperture.

The first consumer cameras to adopt this arrangement were the Panasonic Lumix GH5S and Sony Alpha 7S III, which cater to video with lower pixel counts. Notably, these cameras lack the function mentioned earlier. So, what’s the advantage of the quad-Bayer layout? Both these cameras employ the design shown in figure 2, featuring individual microlenses for each pixel.

This preserves the efficiency of the microlens in focusing light onto the pixel’s active area. However, this design doesn’t offer any improvement over using larger native pixels. The real reason behind its adoption lies in cost savings during production. The specialized nature of the low pixel count sensor allows it to be a variant of another product, leading to reduced manufacturing expenses. For instance, Sony’s 12MP sensor can be derived from a 48MP sensor – a strategy seen in their full-frame sensors with similar pixel counts.

Now, let’s delve into the OM-1. This camera employs a distinct microlens arrangement, as shown in figure 3. In this case, one microlens covers each quad-pixel color filter. Although this approach reduces efficiency by focusing light on inactive parts of each pixel, it introduces a significant advantage: the sensor now offers a phase-difference focus detection mechanism. This system is akin to Canon’s dual-pixel arrangement but functions both horizontally and vertically.

With this sensor design, every pixel in the frame becomes a focus pixel, enabling ‘cross-type’ detection. When capturing a frame, there’s no need to interpolate focusing pixels. Canon provides a ‘dual pixel raw’ feature that extracts depth information from images. While a quad-pixel raw option would be intriguing, OM System currently doesn’t offer it.

August 22, 2023
Curved Display and 4K Video at 60FPS: Infinix Zero 30 5G’s Innovative Features

Infinix is gearing up to launch a new 5G smartphone called the Infinix Zero 30 5G. The company has already given us a glimpse of what to expect with teasers on its website and social media platforms.

The latest teaser from Infinix reveals an exciting feature of the upcoming Zero 30 5G – it will come with a curved display and the capability to record 4K videos at 60 frames per second (FPS). While recording 4K videos at 60FPS might not sound like a big deal, it’s actually quite groundbreaking in its specific category.

Although the exact price of the smartphone is not yet clear, we can speculate based on previous models. For instance, the Infinix Zero 5G 2023 Turbo with Dimensity 1080 was launched in India for around Rs 19,999 for the 8GB+256GB version. Therefore, it’s reasonable to expect that the Zero 30 5G might fall in a similar price range.

From what we’ve seen in teasers and leaks, the Zero 30 5G will boast a 10-bit AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,400p. The highlight is its 60-degree curved design. The camera setup on the back will be housed in a rectangular module, which includes an LED flash and Optical Image Stabilization. Although details about the specific camera sensors haven’t been disclosed yet, it’s safe to assume that they will be impressive.

According to information from a Geekbench listing, the device might be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 1100 SoC, coupled with 8GB of RAM. The smartphone is expected to run on the Android 13-based operating system.

Excitingly, the launch of the Infinix Zero 30 5G is anticipated to take place this month. This means that we won’t have to wait long to get more detailed information about its features and specifications. So, keep an eye out for more updates as they come in.

August 22, 2023
Features of Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Breaking Ground or Following Trends?

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, set to be released in a few months, is causing a buzz with rumors and concept videos that suggest it might have some impressive features. However, it’s worth considering whether these features truly represent Samsung’s innovation or if they’re just following what others are doing in the industry.

One of the rumors about the S24 Ultra is its potential titanium frame. Titanium is known for being strong and lightweight, but this idea is similar to a rumor about the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro. It might not be a complete revolution, but rather an evolution of Samsung’s existing “Armor Aluminum” construction.

The S24 Ultra might also introduce a slightly curved frame, which is different from previous Ultra models. This change could show that Samsung is open to trying new things. However, is this change meant to give the phone a fresh look or is it merely following a current trend?

Other changes in the S24 Ultra, like increasing the display size by 0.1 inch and upgrading to a 144Hz OLED panel, could be seen as minor improvements. Inside, there could be a boost in performance with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and more RAM. But are these changes truly significant advancements?

The camera system is another area of interest. With a rumored 50MP telephoto lens and improved low-light capabilities, the camera setup sounds promising. However, considering the already impressive camera of the S23 Ultra, one might wonder how much more improvement can be achieved. Additionally, offering exclusive red and green color options might be an attempt to make the phone look stylish. But is this an effort to make the phone stand out, or is it just a way to tap into current fashion trends?

While the Galaxy S24 Ultra is expected to bring several enhancements, whether these changes represent true innovation or are simply following the latest trends will only become clear when the phone is officially launched in February 2024. This is an exciting period for technology enthusiasts, yet the question lingers: Is Samsung leading the pack with its innovations, or is it simply following the paths set by others in the industry?

August 21, 2023
OnePlus Ace 2 Pro: A Powerful Smartphone with Remarkable Features

OnePlus has recently unveiled the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro in China, showcasing impressive specifications and a design reminiscent of the OnePlus 11 model. Although the previous OnePlus Ace Pro was initially exclusive to China and later launched globally as the OnePlus 10T, this new release holds its roots within the Chinese market.

The OnePlus Ace 2 Pro boasts an impressive range of features, starting with its 6.74-inch OLED display that supports a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and can reach a remarkable 1200nits brightness under sunlight. Additionally, the device is equipped with a powerful 5,000mAh battery and offers rapid 150W fast charging, an improvement over the already impressive 100W fast charging found in the OnePlus 11.

The camera setup includes a 50MP IMX890 primary camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a third camera with a 2MP sensor. While this camera configuration might appear slightly downgraded compared to the OnePlus 11’s 50MP main camera, 48MP ultrawide, and 32MP telephoto lens, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro’s camera system still promises excellent performance.

Under the hood, the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro is powered by the robust Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and a potential 24GB of RAM. This configuration surpasses even the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, which tops out at 16GB of RAM. As a result, users can expect seamless performance across popular applications and even niche games without encountering any slowdowns or performance issues.

Interestingly, the OnePlus Ace Pro was rebranded as the OnePlus 10T for its global launch last year. However, it seems that this pattern might not repeat with the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro and the OnePlus 11T. Reports suggest that OnePlus intends to streamline its brand and will not be introducing a OnePlus 11T this year. The company’s focus on simplification led them to decide against launching any more ‘Pro’ models in their flagship lineup.

According to a spokesperson from OnePlus, “Starting with our 2023 lineup, we are streamlining the flagship portfolio in North America (and globally) by removing our Pro lineup. In our opinion, you don’t need to have a ‘Pro’ name for a device that’s already ‘pro’.”

It’s worth noting that while OnePlus’s statement specifically refers to the removal of the ‘Pro’ models, it does not explicitly mention the fate of the T-series devices. This leaves room for speculation that a OnePlus 11T might still be in the works for certain markets, even if not in the US.

If the OnePlus Ace 2 Pro eventually makes its way to global markets as the OnePlus 11T, it could prove to be an excellent option for those seeking an upgrade in 2023 and are looking for a top-tier smartphone experience. OnePlus has also introduced devices like the OnePlus Nord 3 and OnePlus Nord CE 3, indicating an interest in offering multiple devices under the same brand umbrella.

August 20, 2023
A New Era of Tech: Samsung’s Vision for Foldable Tablets and Laptops

Samsung has already taken the lead in the world of foldable smartphones, and it seems the company is gearing up for the next big step – the launch of foldable tablets and laptops.

Insiders’ reports indicate that Samsung plans to introduce a foldable tablet sometime this year. While the exact release date remains uncertain, representatives from Samsung have indeed confirmed that the company is actively working on developing such a cutting-edge device.

Samsung’s head of the mobile division, Tae Moon Roh (T.M. Roh), shared this information during an interview with The Independent on July 28th. Strangely, it’s only now that his words have gained attention from the media. He stated, “The innovations applied to smartphones will soon extend to tablets and laptops as well. At Samsung, we’re committing significant resources to make this happen.”

According to Roh, Samsung’s approach involves introducing foldable tablets and laptops only when they can offer meaningful advancements to consumers. He emphasized, “A foldable tablet must strike a balance – it should be lightweight and slim for easy portability, yet sturdy enough for worry-free usage.”

Notably, Samsung had previously patented a design for a foldable tablet named the Galaxy Fold Tab. This patent revealed a device featuring a flexible display that can be folded both inwards and outwards.

Samsung’s move into the realm of foldable tablets and laptops marks a significant progression beyond smartphones. The company’s focus on delivering meaningful innovation while maintaining the portability and durability of these devices suggests a new era of exciting and promising technology. As Samsung continues to invest in resources and expertise, the world awaits unveiling these innovative foldable gadgets, which are sure to redefine how we interact with tablets and laptops.

August 20, 2023
Samsung’s Future Camera Innovations: Exploring 440MP Sensor

Samsung, a renowned tech giant, has been pushing the boundaries of smartphone camera technology with its impressive lineup of Galaxy devices. The latest addition, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, boasts a groundbreaking 200MP camera sensor. However, reports are now swirling about Samsung’s plans for the year 2024, hinting at even more remarkable camera innovations, including a colossal 440MP sensor.

According to an insider known as Revegnus, Samsung is currently in the process of mass-producing three new camera sensors. These sensors include a 50MP GN6 sensor with a pixel size of 1.6μm, a 200MP HP7 sensor with a pixel size of 0.6μm, and the most astonishing of the trio, a 440MP HU1 sensor, although its pixel size remains unconfirmed. These sensors are expected to enter mass production during the latter half of 2024. However, it’s worth noting that these cutting-edge sensors might not immediately find their way into Samsung’s own devices.

The newly introduced 50MP ISOCELL GN6 sensor could potentially succeed the ISOCELL GN1 and ISOCELL GN2 camera sensors. With its spacious 1.6μm pixel size, this sensor offers an upgrade over the ISOCELL GN2’s 1.4μm pixel size. This larger pixel size is pivotal in capturing more light, resulting in improved image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions. Although it seems like a perfect match for Samsung’s flagship smartphones, the insider Revegnus suggests that the GN6 sensor might find its home in devices crafted by Chinese manufacturers instead.

On another note, the 200MP HP7 sensor initially had plans to feature in the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Unfortunately, this remarkable sensor was eventually left out due to its high production cost. Yet, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon, as Revegnus hints at a forthcoming 320MP sensor currently under development. This suggests that Samsung might be considering implementing the 320MP sensor in future devices, perhaps even in the anticipated Galaxy S26 Ultra.

An interesting aspect to consider is the chipset compatibility for these high-MP sensors. The MediaTek Dimensity 9200 chipset has already shown support for 320MP cameras, while upcoming Snapdragon chips might follow suit. This paves the way for a potential revolution in smartphone camera capabilities, with 320MP sensors potentially becoming the next big trend after the 200MP sensors we’re currently witnessing.

While these camera sensors present exciting possibilities, it’s important to remember that not all innovations immediately make their way into consumer devices. Factors like production costs, compatibility, and market demand significantly determine which technologies eventually become mainstream. Regardless, Samsung’s commitment to pushing the envelope in smartphone photography continues to shape the future of mobile imaging.

August 19, 2023
Top 5 Smartphones of 2023: The Ultimate Tech Marvels

In the current smartphone market, the abundance of options can make choosing the perfect device a daunting task. The selection you make should align with your intended usage of the smartphone. This article highlights the top five smartphones available in 2023.

iPhone 14 Pro
Apple’s flagship, the iPhone 14 Pro, stands out as a top choice. Boasting the unique dynamic island feature, it’s the pioneer of the Always On Display. A high refresh rate of 120Hz graces the screen. While lacking in first charging and battery life remaining unchanged, its 48-megapixel camera sensor, complete with a telephoto lens, offers impressive photography capabilities.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
A comprehensive package of features characterizes the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. Blazing fast performance, excellent battery life, and high-quality cameras are its strengths. With a remarkable 200-megapixel camera, it delivers clear imagery, though its low-light selfie performance is subpar.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 caters to different storage needs, available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB variants. Expect improvements in design and practicality, including a larger cover display. Leaked images hint at enhancements over its predecessor, yet there might still be concerns about the hinge gap.

Google Pixel 7
The Google Pixel 7 strikes a balance between features and value. Its camera quality is satisfactory, complemented by a smooth software experience and a 90Hz refresh rate screen. While charging speed lags and the Face Unlock system could be refined, the device packs a 50-megapixel camera and wireless charging, all at an attractive price point of $599.

Honor Magic 5 Pro
The Honor Magic 5 Pro introduces innovative technology, potentially reshaping the smartphone market. Its iconic design features a bezel-less display with curved corners, encompassing a unique aesthetic. A generous 6.8-inch, 120Hz display incorporates features like Dynamic Iceland and advanced 3D face unlocking. Powered by a 5450 MHz battery and revolutionary silicon carbon technology, it strikes a balance between performance and a lightweight, thin design.

Each of these smartphones offers distinct features and strengths catering to various preferences and needs. Making an informed decision depends on aligning these offerings with your intended usage and priorities.

August 19, 2023
The Future of Smartphones: Surprising Technologies Ahead

In the fast-paced world of technology, smartphones have become an essential part of our daily lives. These compact devices have come a long way since their inception, and the future holds even more astonishing advancements that promise to revolutionize the way we interact with our phones. From flexible displays to AI-powered features, the future smartphone is set to bring a wave of surprising technologies that will leave us in awe.

Imagine a smartphone that can bend and twist without breaking. This is not a distant dream, but a reality that is unfolding before us. Flexible displays are at the forefront of smartphone innovation. These displays, made from materials like plastic, can be bent and folded, allowing for unique designs and improved durability. With flexible displays, our smartphones will become more resistant to drops and accidents, ushering in a new era of robust devices.

The future smartphone may also introduce holographic projection technology. Instead of staring at a flat screen, you could interact with 3D holograms projected into the air. This could revolutionize the way we view content, from videos and games to virtual meetings. Holographic projection could create immersive experiences that make us feel like we’re a part of the digital world.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already making its mark in smartphones, but its potential is far from exhausted. In the future, AI will play an even more significant role, powering features like personalized assistants that truly understand and anticipate our needs. These AI companions could help us manage our schedules, answer questions, and even offer emotional support. Our smartphones will become smarter and more intuitive, enhancing our daily lives.

Say goodbye to passwords and PINs. The future smartphone is likely to rely on advanced biometric technologies for enhanced security. Facial recognition and fingerprint sensors are just the beginning. We might see innovations like iris scanning, voice recognition, and even heartbeat authentication. These biometric enhancements will not only make our smartphones more secure but also more convenient to use.

Have you ever dropped your phone and cringed at the sight of a cracked screen? In the future, this might be a thing of the past. Self-healing materials are being developed that can repair minor scratches and dings on their own. These materials could extend the lifespan of our smartphones and reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Wireless charging is already a popular feature, but the future promises even more convenience. Imagine walking into a room, and your smartphone automatically starts charging without needing to place it on a charging pad. This concept, known as over-the-air wireless charging, is being explored by researchers and could eliminate the need for cords and charging mats altogether.

The future smartphone will be not only technologically advanced but also environmentally conscious. Companies are working towards creating smartphones with sustainable materials, longer lifespans, and recyclable components. This shift towards eco-friendly practices will contribute to a more sustainable tech industry.

The future of smartphones is incredibly exciting, with a host of surprising technologies that will reshape the way we interact with our devices. The possibilities are endless, from flexible displays to holographic projections, AI-powered features to self-healing materials. As these innovations continue to unfold, we can look forward to a future where our smartphones are smarter, more durable, and more environmentally friendly than ever before. Get ready to be amazed by the astonishing technologies that lie ahead!

August 19, 2023