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Motorola Edge 40 Pro: A Comprehensive Review

Verdict

The Motorola Edge 40 impresses with its sleek design, IP68 rating, and wireless charging, making it a standout in the mid-range category. Despite minor drawbacks like occasional heating and average battery life, it’s a strong competitor for those looking for style, performance, and durability.

Design and Display

Motorola has refined its slim and narrow design philosophy with the Edge 40, offering a premium vegan leather back that feels great in hand. The phone’s aesthetic gives the impression of a much more expensive device, and the IP68 water and dust resistance adds to its durability. At just 7.6mm thick, it’s also one of Motorola’s thinnest phones with this level of protection. The Nebula Green variant is visually striking, and the phone is equipped with a Dolby Atmos-powered stereo speaker setup and a USB Type-C port. Overall, the Edge 40 scores high in design, combining elegance, durability, and a lightweight feel.

The display is equally impressive, featuring a 6.5-inch curved pOLED panel with FHD+ resolution and a smooth 144Hz refresh rate. The screen delivers vivid visuals and supports HDR10, providing an excellent viewing experience on streaming platforms like Netflix. With a brightness of 1,200 nits, outdoor visibility is no issue. The minimal bezels and unobtrusive punch-hole camera further enhance the immersive display.

Cameras

The Edge 40’s camera setup includes a 50MP OmniVision OV50A primary sensor and a 13MP ultra-wide shooter. The 32MP front-facing camera is also an OmniVision lens. The primary camera produces detailed images with a wide dynamic range, and its autofocus and shutter speeds are quick, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving objects. While color saturation is a bit high, overall tones remain neutral, with good control of highlights and shadows.

The 13MP ultra-wide lens captures a wide field of view with minimal distortion, and it doubles as a macro shooter for detailed close-ups. Portrait shots are decent, though the edge detection could be improved. Low-light performance is adequate, but it may take a few tries to get the perfect shot. The dedicated Night Mode helps reduce noise while maintaining detail.

Performance and Software

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8020 SoC, the Edge 40 offers solid performance for everyday tasks, though it can experience some heating during extended use, particularly with demanding apps or games like BGMI at 60fps. Benchmark scores are competitive, and the phone handles multitasking smoothly, thanks to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage. The in-display fingerprint sensor works well but can occasionally falter, with facial recognition offering a quicker, though less secure, alternative.

Motorola’s MyUX skin, based on Android 13, is clean and bloatware-free, allowing users to enjoy a near-stock Android experience. Gesture-based controls remain a hallmark of Motorola’s interface, adding convenience and customization options.

Battery

The 4,400mAh battery provides about 5-6 hours of screen-on time, which is acceptable but falls short compared to some competitors with larger batteries. However, the 68W fast charging compensates by fully charging the device in under an hour, and the 15W wireless charging adds convenience.

Final Verdict

The Motorola Edge 40 shines in terms of design, display, and software, offering features like an IP68 rating and wireless charging rarely found at this price point. Despite heating concerns and average battery life, its overall package makes it a compelling option in the mid-range segment. Priced under Rs 30,000 (~$400 USD), the Edge 40 is a stylish and well-rounded smartphone worth considering.

Conclusion

The Motorola Edge 40 is a well-rounded smartphone that excels in design, durability, and display quality. Its slim and premium build, combined with features like IP68 water resistance, wireless charging, and a vibrant pOLED display, make it a standout in the mid-range segment. While it faces minor issues like heating and a somewhat limited battery life compared to some competitors, these are offset by the phone’s strong performance, clean software experience, and fast charging capabilities. If you prioritize sleek aesthetics, a smooth display, and durability, the Motorola Edge 40 is a solid contender in its price range.

October 23, 2024
Vivo X90 Pro+ In-Depth Review

Verdict

The Vivo X90 Pro is designed to be a reliable companion for photography enthusiasts looking to explore the limits of smartphone photography. However, it offers more than just exceptional photo-taking capabilities. With top-tier performance, a sleek design, long-lasting battery life, and a vibrant display, the X90 Pro excels in many areas but truly shines with its photography features.

Cameras

The camera setup on the Vivo X90 Pro is a key highlight, especially with the 1-inch Sony IMX988 primary sensor taking center stage. The camera app is packed with customization options, but for casual users, the focus is on capturing high-quality images with just the press of a button. In this regard, the X90 Pro’s point-and-shoot experience is refined and seamless.

Daylight shots taken with the X90 Pro are rich in color, high in detail, and offer excellent dynamic range. The ZEISS Natural Color mode, which reduces oversaturation, adds a layer of realism to the shots. While the gimbal stabilization seen in previous models is missing, the OIS effectively handles shake.

Autofocus is quick, and manual tracking for moving objects is easy. The new V2 chip improves the image-processing pipeline, offering enhancements like better shadow details and highlights. Automatic HDR works well, activating when needed to elevate a shot.

For more advanced photographers, the camera app offers tools like the Effects Master tab, which allows you to adjust color temperature with a swipe. The 12MP ultra-wide lens supports a Super Macro mode that automatically activates when you get close to a subject. Switching between lenses is smooth, and the ultra-wide lens maintains consistent color with the primary 1-inch camera.

Portrait mode, powered by the 50MP Sony IMX768 depth sensor, delivers excellent background separation and edge detection. Some facial retouching is noticeable, which may appeal to users who want easy-to-share social media content. Additionally, Pro mode and RAW capture options allow for extensive manual control over settings like white balance, exposure, and shutter speed.

Night photography is another strength of the X90 Pro. The V2 chip helps to capture well-exposed and detailed images in low light. The manual exposure slider is effective, and the shutter speed ensures proper color and highlight balance without noise. Night mode enhances computational photography for realistic night shots with shadow detail.

The phone also offers long-exposure, Night Panorama, Astro mode, and Super Moon features. The Sports mode, particularly the Night Sports option, impressed me by capturing clear images of fast-moving objects with ease.

On the video side, the X90 Pro can shoot HDR10+ videos at 1080p, and it supports 4K at 60fps and 8K at 24fps. While ultra stabilization is unavailable in 8K, standard and ultra stabilization modes work well for reducing video shake. The horizontal line mode is useful for stable vertical videos even when the camera is tilted horizontally.

The 32MP front camera, while less prominent than the rear setup, delivers realistic selfies with more natural skin tones. Overall, the X90 Pro’s camera performance is outstanding, making it a top choice for smartphone photography enthusiasts.

Design and Display

Vivo’s attention to detail extends to the phone’s design, with a premium vegan leather back that feels great to the touch. The camera housing is separated by a metallic strip bearing the slogan “Xtreme Imagination.” However, the large camera ring does protrude from the body, leading to some wobble on flat surfaces, though Vivo provides a silicone case to offset this.

The phone has a slim aspect ratio, making it easy to grip. At 214g, the X90 Pro feels solid in hand, with a thickness of 9.34mm due to the camera hump. The Legendary Black color adds a sense of elegance to the design. It also comes with IP68 water and dust resistance, a must for premium flagships.

The 6.78-inch AMOLED display boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, a resolution of 2,800 x 1,260, and HDR10+ certification. While it’s not quite QHD+, the display offers excellent quality, brightness (up to 1,500 nits), and contrast, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Streaming on platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video is enhanced by the screen’s vibrant colors and sharp visuals.

Performance and Software

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9200 SoC, the Vivo X90 Pro delivers flagship-level performance, rivaling the best Android phones. Benchmark tests such as Geekbench and Antutu confirm its ability to handle intensive tasks smoothly. The phone also manages heat effectively with a 4,002mm² vapor chamber, ensuring it performs well during demanding gaming sessions.

The device comes with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of UFS 4.0 storage, ensuring quick app loading and smooth multitasking. The stereo speakers provide good audio clarity, and the in-display fingerprint sensor works well, although occasional re-authentication is needed.

FunTouchOS 13, based on Android 13, is Vivo’s custom UI. It offers a smooth and functional interface with useful features like Color Theming, metadata removal for privacy, and the iManager app for phone cooling. Bloatware is present but minimized compared to previous versions.

Battery Life

With a 4,870mAh battery, the Vivo X90 Pro easily lasts through a full day of moderate use, providing around seven hours of screen-on time. Even with heavy camera usage or 5G, the battery holds up well. The phone supports 120W fast charging, fully charging in under 30 minutes, making it convenient for quick top-ups.

Final Verdict

The Vivo X90 Pro is an extraordinary camera phone that also delivers a premium smartphone experience in design, performance, display, and battery life. Priced at Rs 84,999 (approximately $1,020), it may be a high-end investment, but for those passionate about photography, it’s a device that pushes the boundaries of what a smartphone can achieve.

Conclusion

The Vivo X90 Pro is a compelling choice for photography enthusiasts looking for a premium smartphone that excels in image quality. With its advanced camera system, stunning design, powerful performance, and long-lasting battery, it delivers an all-around flagship experience. Though it comes with a premium price tag of Rs 84,999 (around $1,020), the combination of cutting-edge features and top-tier optical capabilities makes it a worthy investment for those who prioritize mobile photography without sacrificing overall performance.

October 23, 2024
Huawei Mate 60 Pro: Detailed Review

The Huawei Mate 60 Pro showcases an elegant design, featuring glass panels on both the front and back, encased in a durable aluminum frame. Available in stylish color options like Black, Space Silver, Cosmic Purple, and Emerald Green, the device measures 160.8 x 76.1 x 8.4 mm and weighs 196 grams, providing a sleek and lightweight feel in hand.

Display
The Mate 60 Pro sports a 6.62-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels. With an 84.2% screen-to-body ratio and a pixel density of 389 ppi, the display delivers sharp visuals. Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, the screen is designed to resist scratches and endure daily wear and tear.

Camera
One of the phone’s standout features is its advanced quad-camera system. It includes a 64MP main sensor, a 20MP ultra-wide lens, a 16MP telephoto lens, and an 8MP depth sensor, delivering versatile photography options. On the front, a dual-camera setup features a 32MP primary sensor and an 8MP secondary sensor, ensuring high-quality selfies. With Leica optics, panorama, and HDR capabilities, the camera excels in capturing detailed photos and videos.

Performance
Powered by the HiSilicon Kirin 995 chipset, built on a 7nm architecture, the Mate 60 Pro promises excellent performance. The octa-core CPU, coupled with the Mali-G76 MP16 GPU, ensures smooth operation, while 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage provide ample space for apps and media, supporting multitasking with ease.

Operating System
Running on Android 11, the Huawei Mate 60 Pro offers the latest features and security updates. The user interface is clean and responsive, enhanced by Huawei’s custom skin, which provides a seamless software experience.

Battery Life
Equipped with a 5000 mAh Li-Poly battery, the Mate 60 Pro delivers impressive battery life for extended usage. The phone also supports fast charging, ensuring quick top-ups when needed.

Connectivity
The Mate 60 Pro is compatible with multiple connectivity options, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, LTE, and 5G networks. Additional features like Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 5.0, and dual-band A-GPS ensure robust wireless connectivity.

Conclusion
The Huawei Mate 60 Pro is a feature-packed smartphone that excels in design, display, performance, and camera quality. Its competitive pricing makes it a solid option for those seeking a premium smartphone experience without compromise.

October 22, 2024
Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate: The Ultimate Gaming Powerhouse – A Detailed Review
Gaming phones have been around for a while, and there are now more options than ever. Brands like Asus ROG, Redmagic, and Black Shark focus on gaming-specific devices. While Asus ROG faces competition from some of the best gaming phones, it continues to lead the market, sticking to its regular release schedule.

I’ve been testing the flagship ROG Phone 7 Ultimate, and it’s an impressive device, boasting top-tier screen technology, cooling features, and gamer-focused software. If you’re after a powerful phone that turns heads and handles all your favorite Android games flawlessly, be prepared to spend a hefty £1,199/€1,399. But that price could be its biggest downside.

Design & Build
- Bulky and heavy
- Sleek matte white design
- Unique cooling ‘AeroActive’ back flap
The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate has a distinctive design that you’ll either love or hate. I expected to dislike it, as I’m usually not fond of gamer aesthetics, but after a few weeks, it’s grown on me. While the regular ROG Phone 7 comes in black or white, the Ultimate edition only comes in matte white. This finish resists fingerprints and feels much better than the glossy surfaces on other phones.

The back of the phone features a symmetrical design with three cameras, a small LED screen strip, and a black flap—the AeroActive Portal—that opens for cooling when the AeroActive Cooler 7 fan is attached. It’s over-engineered, but it works and adds a nerdy charm.

With its two-tone white back, ROG branding, and blue accents, the phone’s build quality is excellent. Rounded sides, two USB-C ports, and the addition of the AeroActive fan showcase thoughtful design choices. However, it’s only IP54 rated for water and dust resistance, and at 239g, it’s quite heavy.

Screen & Speakers
- 165Hz 6.78-inch AMOLED
- Additional rear display
- Outstanding speakers
The flat 6.78-inch AMOLED screen, with a 165Hz refresh rate, is ideal for gaming, and the lack of a notch or cutout makes it more immersive. It’s HDR10+ certified and can reach up to 1,000 nits of brightness. It also features a high 720Hz touch sampling rate, which enhances the gaming experience.

Though not the brightest display, it excels for gaming. Asus has even applied a special coating to reduce friction from sweaty hands, and it works surprisingly well during long sessions.

The rear PMOLED screen, mainly for aesthetics, can display notifications and be turned off to save power. But the real standout here is the speakers—they’re the best I’ve heard on any phone, delivering loud, full sound that adds to the immersive gaming experience.

Performance
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- 16GB RAM and 512GB storage
- Included AeroActive cooler
The ROG Phone 7 Ultimate is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage. Its performance is flawless, handling graphically demanding games like Call of Duty Mobile, Asphalt 9, and Genshin Impact without any issues.

The included AeroActive Cooler 7 accessory, which adds four programmable shoulder buttons, is massive overkill but a fun addition. It helps cool the phone during intense gaming, and its shoulder buttons improve accuracy in certain games like Call of Duty. Asus has also improved the vapor chamber inside the phone, enhancing cooling efficiency.

Software & Updates
- Custom gaming software
- Android 13
- Two major Android updates
Asus’s Game Genie and Armory Crate apps give gamers an impressive level of control over performance settings. You can monitor the CPU and GPU, adjust performance modes, and even set different modes for specific games.

The phone ships with Android 13, and Asus promises two OS updates, along with four years of security updates, ensuring support until 2027.

Cameras
- 50MP main camera
- Basic ultrawide and macro
The 50MP Sony IMX766 main camera performs well in daylight and offers decent night shots, but the 13MP ultrawide and 8MP macro cameras are less impressive. The front-facing 32MP selfie camera is more geared toward streaming and gaming rather than high-quality selfies.

Battery & Charging
- 6000mAh battery
- 65W fast charging
- No wireless charging
With two 3000mAh cells, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate offers great battery life, especially if you’re not gaming constantly. Heavy gaming sessions will require recharging sooner, but the 65W fast charging tops up 72% of the battery in just 30 minutes. Unfortunately, there’s no wireless charging.

Price & Verdict

The Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate costs £1,199/€1,399, making it one of the most expensive gaming phones available. However, it includes 512GB of storage, a charger, and a fan accessory, which somewhat justifies the price for hardcore gamers.

Ultimately, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate is the pinnacle of gaming phones, offering top-tier specs, excellent display quality, and an array of customization options. Its hefty price and bulky design may not appeal to everyone, but for serious mobile gamers, it’s a fantastic option. Cheaper alternatives exist if you don’t need all the bells and whistles, but if you want the best, this phone won’t disappoint.

The Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate is priced at £1,199/€1,399, which translates to approximately $1,399 USD. The exact price in the U.S. might vary depending on taxes and availability, but it is expected to be around this range when officially launched.

Conclusion

The Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate is the pinnacle of gaming phones, offering top-tier performance with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, a stunning 165Hz AMOLED display, and robust cooling features. Its design, while bold and heavy, is engineered for hardcore gamers with customizable software, additional cooling, and shoulder trigger buttons.

The phone’s price is steep, at £1,199/€1,399 (approximately $1,399 USD), which puts it on par with flagship devices like the iPhone 14 Pro Max and Galaxy S23 Ultra. However, it comes with 512GB of storage, a cooling fan accessory, and a charger in the box, making it a more gaming-focused package.

If you’re a serious mobile gamer who demands the best performance and customization, the ROG Phone 7 Ultimate delivers. However, for those who don’t need extreme gaming power, there are more affordable options that still offer excellent performance.
October 22, 2024
Oppo Find X6 Pro: Price, Features, and In-Depth Review
Specifications and Features

Before delving into the intricate details of its design and camera capabilities, let’s take a look at the Oppo Find X6 Pro’s standout specifications and features:
- Cameras:
  - Main: 50MP wide (Sony IMX989, OIS, f/1.8)
  - Ultra-Wide: 50MP (Sony IMX890, f/2.2, doubles as a macro lens)
  - Periscope: 50MP (Sony IMX890, OIS, f/2.6) with 3x optical zoom, 6x in-sensor zoom, and 120x digital zoom
  - Front: 32MP (Sony IMX709, f/2.4)
- Display:
  - 6.82-inch AMOLED, 120Hz LTPO with a resolution of 3,168 x 1,440 pixels, featuring Gorilla Glass Victus 2, peak brightness of 2500 nits, and support for Dolby Vision, HDR 10, and HDR 10+.
- SoC, RAM, and Storage:
  - Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, with options for up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 512GB UFS 4.0 storage.
- Software:
  - ColorOS 13.1 based on Android 13.
- Battery:
  - 5,000mAh with OPPO Battery Health Engine (1600 charge cycles, maintaining 80% battery health after 4 years), featuring 100W SuperVOOC wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and 10W reverse wireless charging.
- Additional Features:
  - IP68 rating, stereo speakers, NFC, and an IR remote control.
- Price:
  - Starting at $1,099 for the base model.
Design

The design of the Oppo Find X6 Pro is a key highlight. The model I reviewed featured a brown, dual-tone vegan leather finish, complemented by a prominent camera module encircled by a sleek stainless steel bezel. This design choice lends the device a classic aesthetic, showcasing a clear emphasis on its photographic capabilities. Despite its impressive camera setup, the phone maintains a sleek profile, with a curved front display that enhances its visual appeal.

Upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that OPPO has meticulously crafted the Find X6 Pro, ensuring it exudes sophistication. The combination of the IP68 rating, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection on the lenses and display, an aluminum frame, and the premium leather finish creates a device that captures attention effortlessly.

Cameras

The camera specifications of the Find X6 Pro underscore its serious commitment to photography. Each sensor is designed to stand out, avoiding the common practice of relegating secondary and tertiary sensors to the background, as seen in many smartphones. While this could be viewed as a marketing strategy, the results speak volumes.

The shooting modes include standard photo, video, and portrait options, alongside a robust Pro mode. The ‘More’ section reveals additional features like night mode, long exposure, time-lapse, and slow motion. Notably, the XPAN mode allows for wide aspect ratio images, creating a unique photographic effect that can produce striking visuals.

In terms of performance, the 1-inch main sensor excels across various lighting conditions, delivering sharp, detailed shots rich in dynamic range. Low-light images maintain quality, and portrait edge detection is precise. The zoom capabilities are particularly impressive, offering 3X optical zoom, 6X in-sensor zoom, and digital zoom up to 120X. While achieving steady shots at such high magnification can be challenging, AI features assist in capturing usable images, especially in scenarios like moon photography. Although 8K video recording isn’t available, video quality remains strong. The 32MP front camera performs admirably, although skin tones can sometimes appear overly soft.

Display, Performance, and Battery Life

The Find X6 Pro boasts a vibrant AMOLED display with a 120Hz LTPO refresh rate, providing stunning visuals suitable for all types of media consumption. Whether gaming or streaming, the display enhances the overall experience, perfectly complementing the phone’s photographic capabilities.

Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, paired with ample RAM and fast storage, the Find X6 Pro delivers seamless performance across demanding tasks and gaming sessions. Benchmark scores reflect its capabilities.

The 5,000mAh battery offers impressive longevity, easily lasting a day under moderate use, even for heavy users.

Charging is a breeze, with the 100W SuperVOOC capable of quickly powering the device. Additionally, the 50W wireless charging option exceeds the wired charging speeds of some competing flagship models.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, any assessment of the Find X6 Pro is primarily of academic interest, as OPPO has yet to launch this device officially in India. This omission is unfortunate, as the Find X6 Pro is more than just a flagship loaded with impressive specs; it promises an exceptional user experience.

Today’s flagship smartphones are expected to excel in performance, battery life, and camera quality. However, the Find X6 Pro distinguishes itself further with its elegant design and outstanding photography capabilities. It is a device that truly stands out in a crowded market, and despite its absence from certain regions, it sets a high standard for what modern smartphones can achieve.
October 21, 2024
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Price & Review Overview
Design and Specifications
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is a premium device featuring a sleek aluminum frame, matte glass rear, and a hinge that ensures smooth and secure folding. In its fifth iteration, while the changes from its predecessors may be subtler, they remain significant. One major improvement is the removal of the gap between the screens when closed.

This “zero gap” not only better protects the inner screen but also minimizes the chance of debris entering and causing damage, a critical step toward enhancing the durability of the folding display. The Z Fold 5 is also thinner and lighter than its predecessor, weighing 253 grams.

It’s more durable, too, with an IPX8 water resistance rating, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection on both the front and back, and a new protective film on the main display, making it even more scratch-resistant.

The Galaxy Z Fold 5 boasts two screens: a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X cover screen with a resolution of 2268 x 832 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X fold-out main screen with a resolution of 2208 x 1768 pixels, also with up to a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.

The main screen features an under-display camera that remains hidden when not in use, delivering an immersive, uninterrupted viewing experience.

Even after three months of use, the Z Fold 5 still turns heads in public, with its expansive display being an eye-catcher. However, it can also attract unwanted attention, especially from children eager to play games or watch videos on the large screen. Despite its durability, it’s not the type of phone you’d want kids handling carelessly due to its hinge and large internal screen.

The Z Fold 5 is equipped with five cameras: a 10MP selfie camera on the cover screen, a 4MP under-display camera on the main screen, and a triple rear camera setup comprising a 50MP wide-angle lens, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens.

It also includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and a 4400mAh battery with 25W wired charging, 11W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Samsung, the Z Fold 5 features 12GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB. However, there’s no expandable memory via a microSD card. The device runs on Android 13 with One UI 5.1.1 and supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and USB-C connectivity.

Screen Quality and Audio
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 offers a stunning visual experience whether in phone or tablet mode. The 6.2-inch cover screen is bright, sharp, and responsive, ideal for quick tasks such as checking notifications or making calls. Its narrow dimensions compared to other smartphones may take some getting used to, but it delivers excellent clarity for tasks without needing to unfold the device.

The 7.6-inch main screen is even more impressive, with vivid colors, high resolution, and a smooth refresh rate, supporting HDR10+ for enhanced contrast and dynamic range. This main display becomes indispensable for media consumption, gaming, or multitasking with up to three apps simultaneously. The under-display camera is subtle enough not to detract from the viewing experience.

In terms of audio, the Z Fold 5 delivers high-quality sound with stereo speakers that support Dolby Atmos, offering a surround sound experience. While there’s no 3.5mm headphone jack, wireless audio via Bluetooth is well supported.

Camera
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 comes with five cameras, including a 10MP selfie camera on the cover screen, a 4MP under-display camera, and a triple rear setup with a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 10MP telephoto lens (3x optical zoom), and a 50MP wide-angle lens. The camera system delivers sharp and detailed images, especially in bright conditions, with natural color reproduction and smooth autofocus.

The Z Fold 5 can record 4K videos at 60fps with HDR10+ support, offering high-quality video recording. However, the under-display camera is less ideal for photography, though it works well enough for video calls.

Performance
The Z Fold 5 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM, ensuring top-tier performance across all tasks. Whether you’re multitasking or gaming, the Z Fold 5 handles it effortlessly. Thermal management is excellent, with a vapor chamber cooling system that prevents overheating during heavy usage.

Battery and Charging
The 4400mAh battery offers decent battery life for a foldable device, lasting a full day of moderate use or around 10 hours of heavy use. Charging is fast and convenient, with 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. You can also adjust performance settings to prioritize either speed or battery life, depending on your needs.

Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is available in three main colors: Phantom Black, Cream, and Icy Blue, with two additional colors (grey and a deeper blue) exclusive to Samsung’s website. Storage options include 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.

In the US, the 256GB model starts at $1,799.

The 512GB model is priced at $1,919.

The 1TB model is priced at $2,159.

Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is a remarkable device that showcases the potential of foldable technology. With its stunning display, powerful performance, and versatile multitasking capabilities, it’s a great option for those who want the convenience of a phone and a tablet in one. It’s more durable and refined than previous versions and supports the S Pen for added functionality.

However, it does come at a premium price and requires a learning curve to adapt to its unique form factor. If you’re willing to invest in the future of foldable devices, the Z Fold 5 is a fantastic choice.
October 21, 2024
Sony Xperia 1 V Price and Full Review
The Sony Xperia 1 V (One Mark Five) was launched in the summer of 2023 as Sony’s latest flagship smartphone, tailored to photography and videography enthusiasts. With its sleek, rectangular design, it sports a stylish, minimalist look.

Powering the Xperia 1 V is the top-tier Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, paired with a substantial camera upgrade: a new 48 MP main sensor, significantly larger than its predecessor’s. Interestingly, while the base storage has been reduced to 256 GB (down from last year’s 512 GB), the starting price has dropped by $100—though it still sits at a premium $1,400.

Is it worth the high price? We’ll dive into its specs, display, camera performance, and battery life to help you decide.

Sony Xperia 1 V Highlights

Pros:
- Elegant, lightweight design
- Extensive manual camera controls for photography and videography
- Quick, responsive eye-tracking autofocus
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other premium phones (excluding foldables)
- Camera quality lags behind competitors despite its focus on photography
- Limited to just two years of Android updates
What’s New
- 48 MP sensor, almost 1 inch in size
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 upgrade
- Focus peaking added to camera apps
- Minor design tweaks with a textured back and ribbed frame
- Base storage cut to 256 GB
- No more Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor due to the improved main camera sensor
Detailed Review Breakdown
- Design & Colors: The Xperia 1 V sticks to its signature classy aesthetic with colors like Black, Platinum Silver, and Khaki Green.
- Display: A 6.5-inch 21:9 OLED screen, featuring a sharp 4K resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
- Camera: The phone’s highlight, with a 48 MP sensor, manual control options, RAW export, and variable optical zoom from 3.5x to 5.2x.
- Performance: Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, offering smooth performance.
- Software & Battery Life: Sony’s software combined with decent battery endurance, but with only two years of updates.
- Audio & Charging: Stereo speakers and good audio quality, though charging speeds could be faster.
In essence, the Xperia 1 V is a premium flagship that remains geared towards camera enthusiasts, though its high price tag and camera performance relative to competitors may give some buyers pause.

The Sony Xperia 1 V was launched with a price tag of $1,400 USD. This premium price reflects its flagship features, including the upgraded 48 MP camera, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, and sleek design. However, despite the $100 price reduction compared to its predecessor, it’s still positioned in the upper price tier, which might make it a tough sell for some buyers.

Conclusion

The Sony Xperia 1 V is undoubtedly a powerhouse, especially for photography and videography enthusiasts who appreciate manual controls and raw output capabilities. With its upgraded 48 MP sensor, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, and stunning 4K display, it’s a flagship device that offers a unique experience, particularly in terms of camera performance. However, the $1,400 USD price tag is steep, especially considering its competition offers similar or even superior features, particularly in image quality, for less.

While the Xperia 1 V delivers in terms of design, display, and camera flexibility, the high price, limited software updates, and camera performance that doesn’t always surpass its competitors may give potential buyers pause. If you’re a Sony fan or a camera enthusiast who values manual control, this phone could be worth it. Otherwise, there are other premium phones that offer better value for money.
October 20, 2024
Vivo X200 Pro Review Price, Features, and Performance Analysis
Despite the fierce competition in the 2024 smartphone market, the Vivo X200 Pro 5G stands out as one of the most highly anticipated flagship devices. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at its design, performance, battery life, camera capabilities, and overall user experience to determine whether the Vivo X200 Pro 5G truly lives up to the hype.

Design and Build: Premium Meets Practicality

The Vivo X200 Pro 5G offers a sophisticated yet functional design. Unlike its predecessor, the X100 Ultra, which featured a curved frame, the X200 Pro opts for a larger, flatter build that feels solid and comfortable in hand. The 6.78-inch display remains intact, offering a sleek but substantial feel whether you’re gaming or browsing.

Durability has also been enhanced with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, providing improved scratch resistance and a matte finish on the rear panel to prevent fingerprint smudges.

Display: A Visual Treat

The 6.78-inch AMOLED display with QHD+ resolution is one of the highlights of the Vivo X200 Pro 5G. With a peak brightness of 1500 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate, the display delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and sharp visuals, making it perfect for gaming and video streaming.

Its outdoor visibility is equally impressive, maintaining clarity even in direct sunlight, and the adaptive refresh rate helps conserve battery by adjusting based on the content being viewed.

Performance: Powered by the Latest Tech

Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and UFS 4.0 storage, the Vivo X200 Pro 5G delivers outstanding performance. Whether multitasking or running demanding apps, the phone handles everything smoothly. The Adreno 750 GPU ensures fluid gaming with minimal lag, delivering rich graphics and high frame rates for even the most resource-intensive titles like Genshin Impact and PUBG Mobile.

Camera Quality: A Photographer’s Dream

The camera system is one of the Vivo X200 Pro 5G’s standout features. The 50MP 1/1.28-inch main sensor, though slightly smaller than the X100 Ultra’s 1-inch sensor, still offers exceptional light capture and faster processing.

Main Camera: The 50MP primary camera delivers sharp, vibrant photos with excellent dynamic range and color accuracy. Even in low light, the pixel-binning technology ensures clean, noise-free images. Portrait mode produces beautiful bokeh and natural subject separation.

Telephoto Lens: The 85mm f/2.67 telephoto lens provides up to 5x optical zoom and 100x digital zoom, delivering excellent clarity even at long distances.

Ultra-Wide and Macro Lenses: The 12MP ultra-wide camera is ideal for group shots and landscapes, while the macro lens offers impressive close-ups with fine detail.

Video Recording: The Vivo X200 Pro 5G supports 8K video at 30fps and 4K at 60fps. Optical and electronic image stabilization ensure smooth, high-quality footage, even in handheld shots.

Battery Life: All-Day Power

The 5000mAh battery, paired with the energy-efficient Snapdragon chipset, easily provides all-day battery life. With heavy usage, the Vivo X200 Pro 5G can last from morning to night without needing a charge.

For quick recharges, the 90W fast charger included in the box powers the device from 0% to 100% in under 30 minutes. The phone also supports 50W wireless charging, offering flexibility for users who prefer cable-free charging.

Software and User Experience: Smooth and Intuitive

Running on Android 14 with Funtouch OS 14, the software experience is smooth and user-friendly. Vivo has minimized bloatware, and features like Game Mode and AI enhancements further improve usability, especially for gamers and content creators. Security features include fast face unlock and an in-display fingerprint sensor.

Connectivity and 5G Performance

As the name suggests, the Vivo X200 Pro 5G supports dual-mode 5G, offering lightning-fast downloads and streaming with minimal latency. The phone also includes Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and Wi-Fi 6E support for future-proof connectivity.

Durability: Built to Last

With an IP68 rating, the Vivo X200 Pro 5G is dustproof and water-resistant, protecting it from accidental spills and submersion. The aluminum frame, combined with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, ensures durability without adding unnecessary bulk.

Audio Quality: Immersive Sound

The stereo speakers on the Vivo X200 Pro 5G provide crisp, balanced sound with good bass depth, making it perfect for gaming, movies, and music. The device also supports Hi-Res Audio, and Bluetooth 5.3 ensures low-latency, lossless audio for wireless headphones.

Storage Options: Plenty of Space

Available in 256GB and 512GB variants, the X200 Pro 5G offers ample storage for apps, videos, and photos, though there is no support for microSD expansion. With UFS 4.0 storage, file transfers and app loading are incredibly fast.

Price and Availability: Worth the Investment?

Starting at around $899, the Vivo X200 Pro 5G offers a compelling value proposition. Its premium features and strong performance make it a competitive option against other flagships like the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Conclusion: A Top Flagship of 2024

The Vivo X200 Pro 5G is a solid contender in the 2024 flagship race. Its stunning display, powerful performance, and exceptional camera system make it a standout choice. Paired with long-lasting battery life, fast charging, and a sleek design, it’s a top pick for anyone seeking a premium smartphone experience.
October 20, 2024
Xiaomi 14T Pro Comprehensive Price and Review
Leading smartphone brands often take a familiar two-tier strategy: they simplify their flagship models and reduce costs to appeal to a broader audience. Xiaomi, however, takes a slightly different approach compared to its Western counterparts. It leverages its China-exclusive sub-brands for subtle rebranding, achieving similar results. The Xiaomi 14T Pro is the latest in this lineup, bringing back Leica for a photography boost without sacrificing performance.

The Xiaomi 14T Pro shares more similarities with last year’s 13T Pro than the recently launched Xiaomi 14, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. I liked the 13T Pro’s camera capabilities and near-flagship power. Add to that some of the fastest wired and wireless charging available for the price, a splash of AI, and an impressive amount of storage, and the 14T Pro looks like another strong contender. At £649 for the 12GB+256GB base model, it comfortably undercuts mainstream models from Samsung and Google. But with competitors pushing unique designs, is Xiaomi’s incremental upgrade enough to stand out?

Design & Build: Familiar Yet Functional

Flat screens and squared-off frames are all the rage in smartphones, and the Xiaomi 14T Pro follows this trend. While the design resembles the Xiaomi 14 flagship, it isn’t a complete replica. The metal frame now has a matte finish, and the frosted rear glass is excellent at hiding fingerprints. The textured power button is a thoughtful addition that makes it easier to locate by touch.

The design hints at Xiaomi borrowing elements from its China-only Redmi K70 Extreme Edition, which results in a more premium metal frame rather than the plastic found on the Xiaomi 13T Pro. The rear camera module features four distinct lenses, though one is dedicated to the LED flash. This layout adds a subtle symmetry, and the Leica and Xiaomi logos are minimalistic.

At 6.67 inches, the Xiaomi 14T Pro joins a crowded market of large-screen phones, and it doesn’t stand out as much as the Xiaomi 14’s distinctive screen size. The muted color options—Titan Gray, Black, and Blue—are a bit conservative and don’t do much to differentiate the phone. However, it does have an IP68 rating, which protects against dust and water.

An IR blaster, common in Chinese phones but rare in Western markets, sits on the top edge. It’s useful for controlling older devices but less so if you’re invested in smart home ecosystems.

Screen & Sound: Brightness Boost

The Xiaomi 14T Pro’s AMOLED display doesn’t stray too far from its predecessor’s specs. It still has a 6.67-inch screen, a sharp Full HD+ resolution, and a smooth 144Hz dynamic refresh rate. Like last year’s model, it features Gorilla Glass 5 and supports HDR10+.

However, brightness has seen a significant upgrade, now reaching a peak of 4000 nits in HDR mode, making photos shot in Google’s Ultra HDR format pop off the screen. Even on sunny days, I had no trouble viewing the display outdoors.

The stereo speakers, while loud, still lack balance. The down-firing speaker overpowers the earpiece, and bass is minimal, making headphones a better option for extended listening.

Cameras: Leica’s Magic Touch

Leica returns to the 14T Pro’s camera system, offering both Authentic and Vibrant styles for the three rear lenses. The main camera features the same 50MP sensor as the Xiaomi 14, with a bright f/1.6 aperture for improved low-light performance. The 50MP telephoto lens now offers 2.6x magnification, ideal for portrait shots, while the ultrawide camera remains unchanged. On the front, there’s a 32MP selfie camera with an improved aperture for better night shots.

The phone handles a wide range of photography scenarios well, though close-up shots suffer from a narrow focus window. Portrait shots occasionally reveal the digital depth effects, especially around loose strands of hair, but the results are generally pleasing. Night-time performance is solid on the main and telephoto lenses, though the ultrawide struggles with detail.

Software: Not Much Has Changed

Xiaomi’s new HyperOS doesn’t stray too far from the previous MIUI interface. The iOS-like split between notifications and quick settings remains, along with a lack of an app drawer by default. There’s a lot of preinstalled Xiaomi and third-party apps, many of which are focused on pushing ads or selling services.

Xiaomi has added a few AI features, including a voice assistant, AI-powered photo editing, and generative text-to-image tools. However, none of these feel particularly revolutionary. The phone is promised four years of Android updates and five years of security patches, which is decent, though behind Samsung and Google’s seven-year commitment.

Performance & Battery Life: A Strong Performer

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ chipset, the Xiaomi 14T Pro delivers flagship-level performance, even surpassing the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in some tests. The 12GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking and quick game loading. While not a major leap forward from the previous model, the performance boost will be noticeable for anyone upgrading from an older phone.

The phone offers ample storage options, with models ranging from 256GB to a massive 1TB. Battery life is excellent, thanks to the efficient chipset and 5000mAh capacity. On a typical day, I ended with about 30% battery remaining. Xiaomi has also brought back 120W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, although there’s no power brick included in the box. With the right charger, the phone can recharge in just over 30 minutes.

Verdict: A Powerful All-Rounder

The Xiaomi 14T Pro delivers a lot of value for its price. It has a powerful chipset, excellent cameras, and one of the fastest charging systems available. While the design may not turn heads, and low-light performance could improve, it’s a solid sub-flagship option. If you’re after high storage capacity and performance at a lower price than Samsung or Google alternatives, the Xiaomi 14T Pro is a smart choice.

Pros:
- Impressive main and zoom cameras with Leica’s distinctive color options
- Premium build quality with an excellent OLED display
- Great battery life and fast charging
Cons:
- Design is somewhat generic
- Low-light imaging could be better
Score: 5/5

The Xiaomi 14T Pro starts at £649 for the 12GB+256GB model, which translates to approximately $800 USD. This places it competitively below the recent mainstream models from Samsung and Google in terms of pricing.

Conclusion:

The Xiaomi 14T Pro offers an excellent value for those looking for flagship-like performance at a more affordable price. It brings together a high-end OLED display, premium build quality, impressive Leica-enhanced cameras, and lightning-fast charging speeds. While its design may feel a bit generic and low-light imaging isn’t class-leading, it’s still a solid choice for those who prioritize performance, battery life, and storage options over flashy aesthetics. At approximately $800 USD, it undercuts many of its rivals, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers seeking flagship capabilities without the premium price tag.
October 19, 2024
Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus Full Price & Review
The Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus has been generating excitement ever since Xiaomi revealed it, and it’s easy to see why. Known for providing high-end features at budget-friendly prices, Xiaomi continues this tradition with the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus. As a mid-range smartphone, it aims to offer flagship-level performance, stylish design, and a powerful camera system, all without straining your budget.

In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the design, display, performance, camera quality, battery life, and more to determine if the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus truly meets the expectations.

Key Specifications at a Glance
- Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED, 120Hz, Dolby Vision, HDR10+
- Processor: 7S Gen 3 (6nm)
- RAM & Storage: 12GB/16GB RAM, 256GB/512GB UFS 3.0 storage
- Camera: 50MP main, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro, 2.5X telephoto
- Battery: 6200mAh with 90W fast charging
- OS: MIUI 15 based on Android 14
- Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC
- Price: Starting at ₹28,999 (approximately $350 USD)
Design & Build Quality: Premium Look and Feel

The Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus features a sleek design that feels premium in hand. The phone has a glass front and back, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which adds durability and scratch resistance. The aluminum frame gives it a solid, high-quality finish.

With an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, the device offers durability typically reserved for flagship phones, making it stand out in the mid-range segment.

Design Highlights:
- Slim bezels and curved edges for an elegant look
- Sturdy aluminum frame
- Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection
- Available in colors like Astral Blue, Cosmic Black, and Moonlight Silver
Display: Vivid AMOLED with 120Hz Refresh Rate

The 6.67-inch AMOLED display is one of the phone’s strongest features, offering vivid colors, deep blacks, and excellent brightness. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth navigation and fluid animations, making it perfect for everyday tasks and gaming.

With Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, the display offers exceptional color accuracy and brightness, even reaching up to 1,500 nits, ensuring clear visibility outdoors.

Display Highlights:
- 6.67-inch AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate
- Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
- 2400 x 1080 resolution for sharp visuals
- 1500 nits peak brightness for outdoor readability
Performance: Powered by 7S Gen 3 Chipset

The Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus is powered by the 7S Gen 3 chipset, a solid performer for its price range. While not on par with top-tier processors, it handles multitasking, gaming, and daily tasks with ease. LiquidCool technology ensures that the phone remains cool, even during long gaming sessions.

Performance Highlights:
- 7S Gen 3 chipset for smooth multitasking and gaming
- 12GB/16GB RAM for lag-free performance
- LiquidCool technology to prevent overheating
Camera System: Impressive for the Price

The Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus features a versatile quad-camera system with a 50MP primary camera that delivers sharp, vibrant photos. The ultra-wide lens and macro sensor offer additional shooting options, though the 2MP macro could use some improvement. The 2.5X telephoto lens adds versatility for zoomed-in shots.

Camera Highlights:
- 50MP main camera with OIS
- 8MP ultra-wide for capturing wide scenes
- 2MP macro for close-ups
- 2.5X telephoto for zooming without quality loss
- Excellent low-light performance with Night Mode 2.0
Battery Life: Long-Lasting with Super Fast Charging

A massive 6200mAh battery ensures all-day usage, even for heavy users. The phone supports 90W fast charging, which takes the battery from 0% to 100% in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for users who need a quick recharge.

Battery Highlights:
- 6200mAh battery for full-day usage
- 90W fast charging for quick top-ups
- USB-C port for charging and data transfer
Software: MIUI 15 on Android 14

Running MIUI 15 on top of Android 14, the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus provides a feature-rich and customizable experience. While MIUI includes some pre-installed apps and ads, they can be disabled. The interface is smooth and responsive, and Xiaomi promises three years of Android updates and four years of security patches.

Pricing & Availability

The Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus starts at ₹28,999 (about $350 USD) for the base model with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. A higher-end model with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage is available at a slightly higher price. It can be purchased from online platforms like Amazon and Mi.com, as well as retail stores.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus?

For those seeking a well-rounded mid-range smartphone, the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus is hard to beat. It offers a premium design, smooth performance, impressive cameras, and long-lasting battery life at an affordable price. While the macro camera and lack of expandable storage might be drawbacks for some, the overall package makes it a top contender in its class.

Why Buy the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus?
- Premium design with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and IP68 rating
- Stunning 120Hz AMOLED display
- Excellent performance from the 7S Gen 3 chipset
- Powerful 50MP quad-camera system
- All-day battery life with 90W fast charging
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly phone that punches above its weight, the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus is a great option.

Conclusion: Is the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus Worth It?

The Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus delivers an excellent balance of premium features, performance, and design at a mid-range price. Its stunning AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, solid 7S Gen 3 chipset, versatile 50MP quad-camera system, and long-lasting 6200mAh battery with ultra-fast 90W charging make it stand out in its category. Xiaomi continues to impress by packing flagship-like features into an affordable device, giving users exceptional value for their money.

While the macro camera could be improved and there’s no expandable storage option, these are minor trade-offs considering the phone’s overall strengths. The Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus is especially appealing to those who want flagship performance, a great display, and powerful cameras without paying top-tier prices.

In summary, if you’re in the market for a feature-rich smartphone that won’t break the bank, the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus is an excellent choice, offering top-tier performance at a budget-friendly price of around $350 USD.
October 19, 2024