Virtual Content Has No Border

Category: Smartphones

Meizu 21: Featuring SD8 Gen 3 Chip, 200MP Camera, RGB LED Ring, and More!

Meizu recently unveiled its latest flagship smartphone, the Meizu 21, at the 2023 Autumn Unbounded Ecological Conference in China. The phone boasts improvements in design, camera, and battery over its predecessor. Let’s explore the key features of the Meizu 21.

The Meizu 21 maintains a sleek design, with a flat frame body reminiscent of both the Galaxy S series and iPhones. It is impressively thin at 7.9mm and weighs 198g. One notable addition is the RGB LED ring light around the camera, serving various purposes, including notifications.

Powering the Meizu 21 is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, coupled with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. To ensure efficient heat dissipation, the phone features a cooling area of 37345mm².

The device sports a 6.55-inch centered punch-hole flat OLED screen provided by Samsung Display. The FHD+ panel supports HDR10+, offers a 120Hz refresh rate, 1920Hz PWM dimming, and reaches a peak brightness of 1800 nits.

The Meizu 21 boasts an impressive camera setup. On the front, there’s a 32MP Samsung S5KJD1 selfie camera. On the rear, a vertically aligned triple camera system includes a massive 200MP Samsung S5KHP3 primary sensor with OIS, a 12MP Samsung S5K3L6 ultrawide unit, and a 5MP Samsung S5K5E9 depth sensor.

The phone runs on the Flyme 10.5 operating system based on Android 14, featuring the Aicy personal assistant powered by GPT. It comes with an IP54 rating, dual stereo speakers, an in-screen fingerprint sensor, dual SIM support, WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, GNSS, and NFC.

A robust 4,800mAh battery fuels the Meizu 21, supporting 80W wired charging for quick and efficient power replenishment. The Meizu 21 is available in three configurations:
– 8GB + 256GB for ¥3,399 (~$480)
– 12GB + 256GB for ¥3,699 (~$520)
– 12GB + 512GB for ¥3,999 (~$565)

The phone comes in Unbounded Black, Smart Purple, Sharp Green, or Meizu White color options. Pre-orders are open, and it is set to go on sale from December 5.

December 1, 2023
Google Messages Now Displays Stunning Ultra HDR Images

Google Messages has joined the league of apps supporting Ultra HDR, a revolutionary image format in Android 14. This format enhances photography by embedding an HDR gain map in the metadata of images, resulting in vibrant colors and increased contrast when viewed on compatible devices. While Google Chrome and Google Photos had already incorporated Ultra HDR support, Google Messages quietly joined the list in September 2023, just before the Pixel 8 series launch.

Sharing Ultra HDR images via Google Messages using RCS ensures that the HDR gain map is retained, providing recipients with a visually enhanced photo experience on compatible devices. Despite lacking a distinct icon or text to identify Ultra HDR images, opening them on devices like the Pixel 8 series triggers the automatic application of the HDR gain map, bringing out richer colors and highlights.

Although some social media platforms may compress or remove Ultra HDR metadata, Google Messages preserves the gain map, allowing backed-up images to retain their enhanced quality in Google Photos. It’s important to note that Google Photos currently doesn’t support editing Ultra HDR pictures without losing metadata. For editing while retaining metadata, users can turn to Adobe Lightroom.

Presently, only the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro support capturing 10-bit Ultra HDR photos, while viewing capabilities extend to the Pixel 7 series and newer models. As more Android flagship phones enter the market, the list of supported devices is expected to grow in the coming months.

To witness the superior quality of Ultra HDR images compared to regular photos, users can explore a dedicated GitHub repository by Android expert Mishaal Rahman. The immediate improvement in image quality is evident when viewed on compatible devices such as a MacBook Pro or the Pixel 8.

November 30, 2023
Exclusive: Real Photos of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Revealed!

Recently, we got a sneak peek at the upcoming Galaxy S24 Ultra through some fan-created images. However, there’s nothing like the real deal, and it seems someone on X (formerly Twitter) has managed to get their hands on the genuine Galaxy S24 Ultra and shared a few photos.

These pictures, courtesy of @DavidMa05368498, showcase the actual Galaxy S24 Ultra, not a fake model. It’s the flagship phone that Samsung plans to reveal in January. In the images, we see a flagship phone with a flat back panel and a completely flat screen – a pleasant surprise for S Pen users. Samsung seems to have ditched the curved edges, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra marks an evolutionary step forward. Similar to the Galaxy S23 Ultra, this upcoming model features individual camera cutouts on the back panel and a square design. The metal frame of the Galaxy S24 Ultra has slightly rounded edges, while the top and bottom edges are flat. On the right edge, you’ll find the power button, volume key, and an antenna.

According to recent reports, Samsung plans to unveil the Galaxy S24 series on January 17 at an Unpacked event in San Hose, California. Samsung has been busy trademarking names not only for products arriving in a few months but also for those expected in almost two years, like the Galaxy S25 or the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

In addition to smartphones, Samsung has filed trademark applications for various product categories, including smart rings and AR glasses in recent months. GalaxyClub, our friends in the know, discovered several applications in different countries. One notable discovery is a trademark application confirming that the Galaxy S24 will be marketed as an AI Phone.

Earlier, SamMobile reported Samsung’s plans to focus on artificial intelligence (AI) with its next flagship. Samsung subsequently confirmed this by introducing the Galaxy AI experience, set to debut with the Galaxy S24 lineup and bring numerous AI features.

November 27, 2023
Nokia Feature Phones Maintain Global Leadership

In surprising news, HMD Global continues to make its mark in the mobile phone industry. According to IDC’s latest report, HMD Global, the company responsible for Nokia phones, has secured the top position in feature phone shipments during Q3 2023. This accomplishment highlights the enduring popularity of Nokia feature phones, with HMD Global commanding 30.7 percent of the global market. The company has seen a remarkable 22.4 percent increase in volume compared to the previous quarter.

HMD Global attributes its success to four key factors. First and foremost is the integration of Unified Payments Interface (UPI), enhancing the functionality of Nokia feature phones and enabling secure digital transactions. This move aligns with the growing trend towards digital payment solutions.

Additionally, HMD Global emphasizes the successful updates made to various Nokia feature phone models. These updates include new designs, vibrant colors, and larger battery capacities, catering to consumer preferences for extended and reliable user experiences. The company’s commitment to adapting to user needs has played a pivotal role in maintaining Nokia’s relevance.

While smartphones dominate discussions in the tech world, the continued success of Nokia feature phones proves their enduring significance. These devices offer a simpler, more affordable option for users who prioritize basic communication features without the complexities of smartphones. HMD Global’s achievements in the feature phone segment provide hope for the sustained success and relevance of the Nokia brand.

Despite the ever-evolving tech landscape, HMD Global’s success with Nokia feature phones hints at the brand’s potential longevity. The company’s strategic approach, evident in the UPI integration and thoughtful updates, positions Nokia as a viable option for users well into the future. The current contract between HMD Global and Nokia Corporation is set to conclude in 2026, leaving room for continued innovation and growth.

November 24, 2023
Xiaomi’s New HyperOS Update Coming to Five Smartphones

Great news for Xiaomi smartphone users! A report from GSMChina reveals that Xiaomi is gearing up to release a stable update for its self-developed operating system, HyperOS. This anticipated update will be based on Android 14 and will soon be available for five flagship smartphones.

The lucky smartphones set to receive the HyperOS stable update include Xiaomi 13 Ultra, Xiaomi 13T, Xiaomi 12T, Xiaomi Pad 6 Max, and Redmi K60 Pro. These devices have already made an appearance with the HyperOS build on Xiaomi’s official server.

The update is on its way and is expected to start with the Xiaomi 13 Ultra in China. Following that, Xiaomi 12T and Xiaomi 13T will get the update in the European market. For users in other regions, don’t worry – the update will make its way to you in the future.

Xiaomi has generously shared a roadmap outlining the release schedule for the HyperOS update on both Chinese and international devices. The update will be delivered in phases, with the first batch of international devices set to receive HyperOS in the first quarter of 2024.

Users can look forward to a smoother and improved experience with the new HyperOS stable update. As Xiaomi continues to enhance its operating system, the Android 14 base promises exciting new features and optimizations for these flagship smartphones.

For users eager to get their hands on the HyperOS update, keeping an eye on software update notifications will be crucial. When the update is ready for your device, a notification will prompt you to install it. Make sure your phone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and has sufficient battery to smoothly complete the update process.

HyperOS is Xiaomi’s own operating system, and with each update, users can expect performance improvements, enhanced features, and possibly new functionalities. The company is dedicated to providing the best user experience, and HyperOS is a key element in achieving this goal.

While the initial rollout begins in China and Europe, Xiaomi’s commitment extends globally. Users around the world can anticipate the HyperOS update reaching their devices in subsequent phases. This phased approach ensures a smooth and controlled distribution, minimizing any potential issues during the update process.

November 22, 2023
Android vs. iPhone 15 Pro: 3 Areas Where Android Phones Shine

In the latest iPhone 15 Pro generation, Apple has made significant improvements, including the Dynamic Island, enhanced camera features, and the adoption of USB-C. Despite these upgrades, there are three areas where Android smartphones still excel.

Android’s Action Button Versatility
Apple introduced the Action Button in the iPhone 15 Pro, allowing users to set up practical functions and assign shortcuts. However, Android outshines this feature by allowing the power button on certain smartphones to be reprogrammed as an “Action Button.” This Android counterpart can perform various actions, like activating the camera, with different press combinations, making it more versatile than Apple’s Action Button.

While the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus retain the traditional mute switch, users interested in the Action Button functionality need to opt for the 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max.

Android Smartphone Displays
Although the iPhone’s Super Retina XDR display is impressive, certain features like always-on and a 120Hz refresh rate are limited to the Pro models. Android smartphones, even in mid-range options like the Samsung Galaxy A54, offer always-on and 120Hz displays at a more affordable price compared to the iPhone 15.

The display specifications of the iPhone 15 are notable, with maximum typical brightness, peak brightness for HDR, and outdoor peak brightness. However, it’s perplexing to iPhone users why these features are exclusive to the Pro models when Android competitors offer them across various price ranges.

USB-C Adoption on Android
Apple’s switch from Lightning to USB-C was enforced by EU regulations, bringing convenience for connecting accessories and charging multiple Apple devices with one cable. However, Android smartphones, like the Xiaomi 13T Pro, showcase a more efficient use of USB-C. The Xiaomi model achieves a full charge from 0 to 100 percent in half an hour, surpassing the iPhone 15 Pro’s 50 percent charge in the same time.

The fast-charging capabilities of certain Android models, including ultra-fast charging, provide users with quicker solutions in critical situations. Apple’s approach to USB-C doesn’t match the charging speed offered by some Android competitors, indicating a gap in this aspect.

November 18, 2023
Honor 100 Series: Massive Innovative Designs Sets a New Standard

Honor has revealed the much-anticipated Honor 100 series, set for an official release on November 23. The lineup includes the Honor 100 and the Honor 100 Pro, each featuring distinctive design elements. Real-life images provide insights into the visual differences, particularly highlighting the unique features of the Pro model.

The Honor 100 comes in three color options: black, white, and a gradient finish. Its camera setup follows a classic rectangular shape, accompanied by a stylish semi-circular decorative band. Positioned in the middle are two cameras.

On the other hand, the Honor 100 Pro introduces four color variants, including classic black and white, along with two dual-tone options in cyan and purple. The Pro model stands out with its innovative use of materials on the back panel, incorporating a patchwork of glass and plain leather. Although this unconventional approach poses manufacturing challenges, it adds a touch of sophistication to the device.

The camera module on the Honor 100 Pro deviates from traditional designs, featuring a shape inspired by the Möbius ring concept. Despite its seemingly disorderly appearance, the Möbius ring represents an infinite loop, contributing a layer of symbolism to the phone’s aesthetics. Upon closer inspection, the Honor 100 Pro reveals three cameras on the rear, with a notable 50-megapixel main camera, complemented by Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for enhanced photography capabilities.

Leaked specifications include the use of the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 for the Honor 100 and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for the Honor 100 Pro. The distinctive designs and advanced features of the Honor 100 series suggest an exciting release for smartphone enthusiasts.

November 18, 2023
Samsung Unveils AI Camera Features for Galaxy Devices with One UI 6

Samsung has officially released One UI 6 to the public, bringing a new set of AI camera features to Samsung Galaxy devices. These features enhance the capabilities of Galaxy phone cameras and are made possible through the power of artificial intelligence.

One of the key updates in One UI 6 is the enhancement of the Enhance-X app. This app, introduced a few months ago, originally offered unique AI features like HDR and upscaling for photos with lower quality. With the new update, Enhance-X gains even more impressive features.

One notable feature is “Sky Guide,” which takes astrophotography to the next level. After capturing images with the Galaxy phone’s camera, Sky Guide uses AI analysis to identify constellations, stars, and clusters in the image. This means you can learn more about the celestial objects in your photos, even for shots taken in the past.

Another exciting addition is the “Slow-mo” tool. This feature transforms standard frame rate videos into slow-motion videos by generating additional frames between the captured ones. The added frames create a smoother, more dramatic slow-motion effect. While this feature hasn’t been tested yet, it promises to be a valuable addition for video enthusiasts.

The Enhance-X app also includes features like “Motion Flow,” which turns videos into long-exposure photos, and “Single Take.” These features offer creative possibilities for Galaxy device users.

Additionally, Samsung is introducing an improved document scanning tool that leverages AI to capture better images of printed material. When a document is detected, the Auto Scan edit screen automatically appears, allowing users to rotate and align the document for optimal rendering. This process can also recognize and remove fingers in the frame.

In One UI 6, Samsung Galaxy phones will enable users to save identified objects in photos as stickers. These stickers can then be placed in other photos or shared across various apps. This feature resembles the photo cutout feature in iOS 16 for iPhones but is enhanced for a better user experience. The AI in this update is better equipped to select subjects and clip them, enabling users to add a layer of emojis to a wide range of social apps.

Samsung is also introducing non-AI features, including a High Resolution Quick Setting in the camera app and new camera widgets. The High Resolution button offers quick access to settings, streamlining the process of adjusting settings for different types of shots. These features are available with One UI 6, which is currently rolling out to regions outside the United States. Most devices released since 2021 will be eligible for the upgrade once it becomes available.

October 31, 2023
Reviving Project Ara: A Second Chance for Modular Smartphones

It has been a decade since Google introduced Project Ara, an ambitious concept aimed at creating modular smartphones. The idea was simple: develop a phone with a skeleton chassis that could hold interchangeable modules for components like batteries, memory, cameras, and processors. This concept would allow users to customize their smartphones at a hardware level, make repairs more accessible, and provide an upgrade path for a more powerful phone without buying an entirely new device.

Unfortunately, Project Ara never became a reality. Google faced challenges with modular parts, concerns about durability and compatibility, and struggled to create a consumer-friendly model for modular phones. As a result, Project Ara was abandoned in September 2016.

Modular technology, where users can swap and upgrade individual components, has had a challenging history. Razer’s Project Christine, a modular gaming PC platform, failed to find a market despite its sleek design. Laptops and game consoles, while partially upgradable, do not fully embrace modularity. Smartphones have become less upgradable over the years, with sealed batteries and limited expansion options.

However, there is still hope for modular technology, driven by the growing right-to-repair movement and an increase in DIY tech enthusiasts. Companies like Fairphone have integrated modularity into their eco-friendly smartphone designs, allowing users to easily upgrade components or replace damaged screens without professional repair.

Framework laptops offer another example of true modularity, providing users with customizable and repairable devices. These modular laptops enable users to swap components like keyboards, GPUs, and ports with ease.

While modular smartphones may not become mainstream, there is potential for modular tech to thrive. Fairphone and Framework have set a positive example, and it would be exciting to see other tech giants explore modularity. At the very least, the option to swap smartphone batteries easily would be a welcome change.

October 31, 2023
Exciting Developments in Smartphone Display Technology from OnePlus and OPPO

OnePlus and OPPO are creating a lot of excitement with their teaser for an upcoming smartphone display. The teaser, posted on the social media platform Weibo, hints at a “historic moment for Chinese screens” scheduled for October 24. OPPO, OnePlus’ sister company, is also collaborating on this display project with BOE.

While the teaser is intentionally vague, a well-known Weibo leaker, Digital Chat Station, shared some insights into what this new display might offer. According to the leak, OnePlus is gearing up to introduce a device with a BOE 2K (1440p) resolution display capable of reaching 3,000 nits of peak brightness. There are also rumors suggesting that the new display could feature a 2160Hz PWM dimming upgrade, which could be welcomed by users sensitive to this aspect.

For those not familiar with the term “nits,” it refers to the brightness of a display. The higher the nit count, the brighter the screen. To put this into context, Google’s latest Pixel 8 Pro offers 2,400 nits of peak brightness, while Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra has a display that can reach up to 1,750 nits.

OnePlus recently unveiled its first foldable device, the OnePlus Open, which features a 6.3-inch cover screen and a 7.8-inch internal display, both capable of hitting a maximum of 2,800 nits. This suggests that OnePlus is already pushing the boundaries in terms of display brightness.

The exact device that will feature this “historic” display remains a mystery, but we might already have some clues. The OnePlus 12 has been a topic of discussion in the rumor mill for some time. Various details about the phone have already emerged, including its expected release in January 2024. The OnePlus 12 is rumored to come with a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 2K resolution and Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC.

Considering the hints in the teaser, it’s quite possible that this display technology could make its debut on OnePlus’ upcoming flagship device. Smartphone enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the announcement on October 24 to learn more about this exciting development in Chinese smartphone screens.

October 23, 2023