Xiaomi has quietly signed a deal to preinstall new apps (bloatware) on its smartphones. Starting in 2026, the company will begin shipping new phones with a crypto wallet and discovery app developed by Sei Labs, as part of a new global partnership focused on pushing blockchain technology to more people.
The app is tied to Sei, a Layer 1 blockchain designed specifically for digital asset trading. It will come pre-installed on all new Xiaomi phones sold outside mainland China and the United States. And that is a lot of devices.
Xiaomi is currently the world’s third-largest smartphone brand after Apple and Samsung, covering more than 13 percent global market share. In numbers, that is around 160 million devices.
The Sei app works as a crypto wallet and a gateway to Web3 services. According to Sei, users will be able to send peer-to-peer payments, interact with decentralized applications, and explore other blockchain-based products without downloading anything extra.
Sei is also planning to expand this partnership beyond smartphones. The company says it wants to enable stablecoin payments across Xiaomi’s 20,000-plus retail stores, starting with Hong Kong and parts of the European Union. This will eventually allow customers to buy Xiaomi products using stablecoins like USDC, with transactions settled on the Sei blockchain.
It’s just another bloatware
In a press release shared with CoinDesk, Sei says the deal could introduce crypto to millions of people, especially in markets where Xiaomi has a dominating presence.
For instance, the company holds 36.9 percent of the smartphone market in Greece, and around 24 percent in India.
However, for users, this is just another bloatware.
Preinstalled apps have long been a sore point for Xiaomi phones. The situation was particularly bad a few years ago, as the phones came loaded with apps most people never asked for.
Xiaomi has since tried to be more transparent and has made some improvements, but this partnership feels like a step backward. Installing crypto apps by default that most users are not aware of or won’t use is not right.
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Motorola has launched the Motorola Edge 70 in India, expanding its premium Edge lineup with a strong focus on slim design and balanced performance. The smartphone arrives with a 1.5K pOLED display, Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, triple 50MP cameras and a large 5,000mAh battery with fast wired and wireless charging. It also brings long-term software support and enhanced durability features. Read on to know the full specifications, features, and pricing details of the newly launched Edge 70.
Motorola Edge 70 specifications and features
Motorola Edge 70
The Motorola Edge 70 features an ultra-slim body measuring 159.9 x 74.3 x 5.9mm and weighing just 159 grams. On the front, it sports a 6.7-inch pOLED display with a 1.5K resolution of 2712 x 1220 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen supports HDR10+ and reaches up to 4500 nits of peak brightness.
Powering the Edge 70 is the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, paired with 8GB LPDDR5x RAM and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage. It packs a 5,000mAh battery that supports 68W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse charging, ensuring reliable all-day usage. A large 4600mm² vapor chamber is included to keep temperatures under control during heavy tasks.
The Edge 70 runs Hello UX based on Android 16 and is confirmed to receive three Android OS updates along with four years of security updates. In the camera department, it features a 50-megapixel front camera, while the rear setup includes a 50-megapixel main camera with OIS and a 50-megapixel ultra-wide plus macro camera.
Other features include an in-display fingerprint sensor, dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, USB Type-C, and extensive 5G band support. When it comes to durability, its screen is protected by Gorilla Glass 7i, and it carries IP68 certification and MIL-STD-810H durability, offering resistance against dust, water, and accidental drops.
Motorola Edge 70 price and availability
The Motorola Edge 70 is available in a single 8GB RAM and 256GB storage variant priced at Rs 29,999. It comes in Pantone-curated colours such as Gadget Gray, Lily Pad, and Bronze Green. The smartphone will go on sale from Dec. 23 via Flipkart, Motorola’s official website, and offline retail stores. Buyers can also avail a Rs 1,000 bank discount, bringing the effective price down to Rs 28,999.
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Casio appears to be gearing up for another high-profile collaboration for upcoming G-Shock watches. The brand is partnering up with Coca-Cola once again, and this time, the collaboration is bringing the bold makeover to the popular CasiOak lineup. So here’s what we know.
New Casio x Coca-Cola G-Shock Collaboration on the Way
The latest info arrives from a popular Casio leaks account on Instagram. In a recent online post, geesgshock claims that a new limited edition, which carries the GA‑2100CC‑3A model number. The CC in the model number hints at a partnership with Coca-Cola once again, since the previous collaboration also had this in its model numbers. To recall, the DW6900CC23‑3 was released with a semi-transparent design that was made to resemble a classic Coca-Cola glass.
Casio x Coca-Cola G-Shock Watch Collaboration
Now, the GA‑2100CC‑3A leak also hints at a similar limited edition entry in the G-Shock lineup. As the name suggests, the GA-2100 series is often unofficially referred to as the CasiOak line. So the classic octagonal design is probably getting a Coca-Cola branding on the dial, along with either a green or red paint job. While the design of this watch is still unknown, we can expect it to be inspired by the brand’s recognizable color scheme.
OPPO has started rolling out the stable ColorOS 16 update based on Android 16 for the OPPO F27 5G in India. The update is available as an official version starting December 5. Users must be on the detectable build CPH2637_16.0.1.300(EX01) to receive the update. OPPO has confirmed that users in other regions will be covered later.
Before updating, OPPO advises users to back up important personal data to avoid any loss due to incompatibility or unexpected issues. After installation, the phone may heat up, lag, or drain the battery faster while the system runs background optimizations.
Some third party apps may not work properly on Android 16 at first and could show issues like lag or crashes. Updating these apps from the App Market is advised. Users can report bugs by dialing *#800# and submitting feedback through the menu.
ColorOS 16 brings several new OPPO AI features. AI Mind Space lets users save quick ideas by long pressing the Snap Key to record a 60 second voice note. Notes can be grouped automatically using Smart Collections. With Google Gemini integration, users can ask questions like retrieving saved project ideas, combining saved notes with web search results.
The AI Recorder Assistant adds automatic titles and short summaries to recordings and applies AI noise reduction to make voices clearer. This is useful for lectures, meetings, or interviews where key points need to be reviewed quickly.
AI Writer focuses on content creation. Users can upload images to social media apps and get auto generated captions suited to different platforms. It can also convert text into mind maps or tables to help structure ideas and plans.
ColorOS 16 improves device connectivity with iPhone call, message, and notification sharing. When an iPhone is connected via Bluetooth, calls, SMS, and app notifications can appear on the OPPO phone using the OPPO Dialer. Phone screen mirroring to a PC is also supported through cloud or USB connections, with up to five app windows cast at the same time.
Performance upgrades include the Trinity Engine for stable frame rates during heavy multitasking and gaming, and the Luminous Rendering Engine for smoother system animations. Camera and editing tools include AI Portrait Glow, Motion Photo Collage, slow motion editing, and a full video editor. Design updates include Flux Themes, more home screen options, expanded Aqua Dynamics support, and a refreshed Luminous Design across the system.
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The Infinix XPad Edge is set to launch officially on Dec. 18 in Malaysia. Ahead of its debut, Infinix has shared early details around the tablet’s design and positioning, highlighting its focus on productivity and entertainment. Here’s a look at what to expect from the company’s next tablet.
Infinix XPad Edge launch details and official features
Infnix XPad Edge
Infinix has confirmed that the XPad Edge features a slim 6.19mm unibody metal design and weighs 588g, giving it a lightweight and premium build. The tablet sports a 13.2-inch display with a resolution of 2,400 x 1,600 pixels and a typical brightness of 450 nits.
Audio duties are handled by a quad-speaker setup, which the brand claims deliver significantly louder sound output compared to conventional tablet speakers. On the software side, the XPad Edge comes with WPS Office pre-installed and supports several productivity-focused tools such as split screen, parallel windows, phone casting and a PC secondary display mode.
The XPad Edge also introduces a suite of AI-based features, including the Folax voice assistant, Hi Translation, AI Smart Screen Recognition and AI Creation. Infinix has additionally confirmed support for both 4G and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Infinix XPad Edge Shopee listing details
Ahead of the official launch, the XPad Edge appeared briefly on Shopee Malaysia, revealing specifications that have not yet been confirmed by Infinix. The listing suggests that the tablet is powered by the Snapdragon 685 chipset and runs Android 15 out of the box. It also points to an 8GB RAM and 256GB storage configuration, with expandable storage support of up to 2TB.
Additional details from the listing include 8-megapixel cameras on both the front and rear, an 8,000mAh battery with 18W wired charging, and availability in a single Celestial Ink grey colour. The tablet was listed at MYR 1,329 (~$325) on Shopee, though official pricing will be announced at launch.
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Oppo has effectively confirmed the Find X9 Ultra. Zhou Yibao, who heads Oppo’s Find series products, responded directly to a user online asking him to “quickly reveal” the Find X9 Ultra. His reply was short—just two words—but clear: “Unprecedentedly powerful” (translated from Chinese). While he didn’t share any specs, the comment confirms the device is in development.
The tease lines up with recent reports about Oppo’s upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5–powered phone, which is widely believed to be the Find X9 Ultra. According to IT Home, the device is expected to feature a heavily upgraded camera system, led by a 200MP main sensor (around 1/1.12″ in size). The setup reportedly also includes a 50MP ultra-wide camera, a 200MP periscope mid-telephoto lens, a 50MP periscope super telephoto lens, and a multispectral sensor, pointing to a strong focus on high-end photography.
In other words, the Find X9 Ultra is upgrading both the main camera and the mid-telephoto lens from 50MP to 200MP. The new 3x telephoto sensor is seemingly getting a size bump too, increasing to 1/1.3″ from the 1/1.56″ sensor used on the Find X8 Ultra. The main sensor, however, appears to be slightly smaller this time, dropping to around 1/1.2″ compared to the 1″ sensor on its predecessor.
Earlier leaks from October described a high-end engineering sample that many believe matches the Find X9 Ultra. Those reports mentioned a large 2K flat display with 2.5D glass, a battery rated above 7,000mAh, and support for up to 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. Other rumored features included an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, IP68/IP69 water and dust resistance, and a large vibration motor.
Oppo hasn’t officially confirmed any of these specifications yet, but combined with Zhou Yibao’s comment, the picture is becoming clearer.
More details are expected to surface in the coming weeks as Oppo moves closer to an official launch.
The Huawei Nova 15 series is set to debut in China on Dec. 22, and ahead of the official launch, Huawei has revealed several key details about the upcoming lineup. The company has confirmed the presence of three models and showcased their exterior styling, color choices and storage configurations. While the complete hardware details remain under wraps, the early reveals put strong emphasis on design changes and visual identity. Here is a closer look at what has been disclosed so far.
Huawei Nova 15 series design and colour options revealed
Huawei Nova 15
Huawei has listed the Nova 15, Nova 15 Pro and Nova 15 Ultra on its official store, offering a clear view of their final designs. The standard Nova 15 sticks to a familiar look that closely resembles its predecessor, featuring a single punch-hole display and a simpler rear camera layout. This approach keeps the base model visually consistent with earlier Nova phones.
The Nova 15 Pro and Nova 15 Ultra, however, mark a noticeable design shift. Both models adopt a horizontally aligned camera matrix, a first for the Nova lineup, giving them a more distinctive appearance. The Nova 15 Ultra goes a step further with a dual circular camera ring layout, enhancing visual symmetry and recognition. Official posters also hint at a metal middle frame on the Ultra, suggesting a more premium in-hand feel compared to earlier generations.
Huawei Nova 15 Pro
Across all three models, Huawei is offering four colour options: Dynamic Green, Easy Match Purple, Zero Degree White and Phantom Night Black. The green and purple variants feature a striped rear panel finish, making them stand out with a more vibrant and youthful look, while the white and black options keep things understated and clean.
Huawei Nova 15 series configurations
Huawei Nova 15 Ultra
The Nova 15 and Nova 15 Pro will be available with 12GB+256GB and 12GB+512GB options. Reports have revealed that these devices will be powered by the Kirin 8020 chipset.
The Nova 15 Ultra adds a higher-end 12GB+1TB variant alongside the same base configurations. It is speculated to feature the Kirin 9010S or 9020A chip. All three phones are already listed on Huawei’s official store and will open for pre-orders today, ahead of their formal launch on December 22.
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Realme is currently gearing up to launch the Realme 16 Pro series of smartphones for the global market. While the company is also said to be working on the 16 series in China, it is also believed to be developing the Neo 8 lineup. A new leak, courtesy of tipster Digital Chat Station, has seemingly revealed the key specifications of an upcoming Neo 8 model.
Realme Neo 8 series phone incoming
Alleged Realme Neo 8 specs leak
To recall, the Realme Neo 7 series includes four models, namely the Realme Neo 7 Turbo, Neo 7, Neo 7 SE, and Neo 7x. These devices are powered by the Dimensity 9300 Plus, Dimensity 9400e, Dimensity 6400 Max, and Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chipsets, respectively. It remains to be seen whether the Neo 8 lineup will have successors for all four Neo 7 models.
The new leak reveals that an upcoming Realme phone will feature a large, flat Samsung AMOLED display with support for a 1.5K resolution. Under the hood, it is said to feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset.
While the official of the device is not known, it could be called the Realme Neo 8 when it hits the Chinese market. A previous leak claimed that the device could be equipped with other features, such as an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor, a metal frame, and an 8,000mAh+ battery.
Realme Neo 7
The inclusion of this chip suggests that the upcoming Realme phone is designed to take on the likes of the OnePlus Ace 6T, Moto X70 Ultra, and iQOO Z11 Turbo Pro, which are also powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. The Vivo S50 Pro Mini also features the same chipset, but it is a camera-focused phone, while the others are more performance-oriented.
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Honor is officially teasing a brand-new smartphone lineup, and yes, it’s really called the Win series. After months of rumors, the company has now confirmed the name by sharing its first teaser on its official Weibo handle.
Honor announced today that it will host a communication event for its new e-sports-focused phones on December 16th, which is tomorrow. The event carries the slogan “Exceptional Strength, Born to Win.”
The teaser image posted on Honor’s official website shows a screen filled with the word “WIN,” leaving little doubt that this is the branding the company is moving forward with.
For those unaware, the Honor Win series is set to replace the Honor GT lineup, which itself only debuted in 2024. The next phone that many expected to launch as the Honor GT 2 will now reportedly arrive under the Win name instead. In other words, GT is out, and Win is in, at least for now.
Two devices powered by Snapdragon chips
According to rumors, the line will have two devices, called the Honor Win and Honor Win Pro.
We have also seen images of both phones sporting a rectangular camera module with Win branding placed at the bottom-right corner. The module appears to include three cameras on both sets.
Honor Win render
The standard Honor Win is said to come in multiple colors, including beige, black, white, and cyan.
Meanwhile, the Honor Win Pro also has a built-in cooling component next to the top camera lens.
Honor Win Pro render
On the hardware side, the Honor Win could be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, while the Win Pro may use the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Both phones are expected to feature a 1.5K OLED display, a 50-megapixel main camera, and a massive 8,500mAh battery with 100W fast charging support.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Xiaomi has started rolling out HyperOS 3, its latest Android skin based on Android 16, and on paper, it looks like a solid upgrade. The company is pitching a lighter system, smoother animations, and better overall responsiveness across a wide range of phones and tablets.
For many users, that seems to be true. Day-to-day performance reportedly feels snappier, with fewer background slowdowns and a generally smoother experience than previous HyperOS versions.
But for a specific group of users—Android emulation enthusiasts using the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro—the update hasn’t been entirely smooth.
Shortly after HyperOS 3 began rolling out, posts started appearing on forums like r/EmulationOnAndroid, with users reporting reduced emulation performance after updating. One user of the Pad 6S Pro showed visible flickering and instability that reportedly wasn’t present before. Similar complaints have popped up from owners of other Xiaomi devices as well, suggesting the issue isn’t limited to a single model.
That said, the situation isn’t universal. Some users say their emulated games continue to run just fine on HyperOS 3, hinting that the problem may depend on specific hardware or GPU configurations rather than the update as a whole.
For those affected, a potential fix has emerged — switching to the Turnip v25.3.0 (Revision 5) GPU driver could help reduce the visual glitches. But turnip drivers currently don’t support devices powered by Qualcomm’s newer Snapdragon 8 Elite and newer flagship chips, limiting their usefulness for the recent flagship phones and tablets.
In short, HyperOS 3 appears to be a win for general performance, but it’s not without trade-offs. If emulation is a big part of how you use your Xiaomi device, it might be worth waiting for future updates—or at least checking community feedback for your specific model—before jumping in.
As always, Xiaomi could smooth things out with upcoming patches, but for now, HyperOS 3’s impact on emulation remains hit or miss.
vivo has started teasing its upcoming S50 series, and this one is about the vivo S50 Pro mini. The brand has confirmed on Weibo that this compact device will be among the first to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip.
vivo also says the phone will use LPDDR5X Ultra RAM and UFS 4.1 storage, the same setup found on its top-tier flagships. The brand has further revealed that all S50 models will come with 3D ultrasonic fingerprint 2.0 and an eye-protection display focused on high brightness and clarity.
The company has already locked in a launch date, confirming that the vivo S50 series will be unveiled on December 15 in the home country. Ahead of the event, both the S50 and S50 Pro mini have shown up in China Telecom’s product database, which gives us a clearer picture of what to expect.
The regular vivo S50 is listed with a 6.59-inch display at 2750 × 1260 resolution, a 50MP selfie camera, and a triple rear camera setup made up of 50MP + 50MP + 8MP sensors. It measures 157.52 × 74.33 × 7.59 mm, weighs 197g, and packs a 6,500mAh battery. The phone is powered by the SM8635 chipset, better known as the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3.
The vivo S50 Pro mini takes a different approach. It’s smaller at 150.83 × 71.76 × 8.10 mm and lighter at 192g, but still manages to fit a 6.31-inch display with 2640 × 1216 resolution. Camera hardware remains the same, including a 50MP front camera and the same triple rear setup. Interestingly, vivo hasn’t compromised on battery size either—the Pro mini is also listed with a 6,500mAh cell.
More details, including pricing and regional availability, should surface at the launch event tomorrow.
OnePlus Turbo series has officially entered the conversation after fresh confirmation from the brand’s top leadership in China. What began as speculation around a new product line a couple of months ago has now taken a clearer shape, with early hints pointing towards a strong focus on performance and battery life. While the company has not shared full specifications yet, the official statement gives an idea of what OnePlus is aiming to achieve with this upcoming lineup.
OnePlus Turbo series: What to expect?
OnePlus Ace 6T
OnePlus China President Li Jie Louis confirmed the arrival of the all-new OnePlus Turbo series during the brand’s 12th anniversary event. He stated that the new series will carry forward OnePlus’ flagship performance DNA while pushing battery endurance to the top of its segment.
According to him, the Turbo lineup is being developed to deliver a level of gaming experience rarely seen at its expected price positioning. He also highlighted that OnePlus recorded over 40 percent year-on-year growth in 2025, largely driven by its focus on performance and gaming-oriented users, especially younger buyers.
Li Jie further shared that OnePlus would continue exploring the upper limits of gaming performance in 2026, and the Turbo series is part of a broader refresh of the brand’s product portfolio.
Tipster Digital Chat Station recently added clarity, claiming that OnePlus’ new mid-range Turbo series is already in advanced testing. The new series is reportedly being prepared to launch ahead of rival Turbo-branded devices. According to the leak, the series will bring down flagship-level capabilities to the mid-range, particularly in performance and battery life.
Industry chatter suggests that upcoming Turbo models could be powered by platforms such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 or customised Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 variants. Battery capacity is expected to be a major highlight, with claims pointing towards a 9,000mAh-class unit.
Displays are tipped to be 1.5K panels, with higher-end versions possibly featuring metal frames and ultrasonic fingerprint sensors. Reports also suggest that the brand may also release a Turbo-branded tablet in the near future.
As competition heats up before the Chinese New Year, the OnePlus Turbo series looks set to play an aggressive role in the mid-range performance segment. Some reports suggest that the Turbo series may go official by the end of this year or in January 2026.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
The iQOO 15 Ultra may not be arriving as soon as enthusiasts had hoped. Fresh commentary from a well-known Weibo tipster suggests the device’s timeline has shifted, raising new questions about when—or even if—the ultra-premium model will make its official debut.
iQOO 15
The tipster was asked directly about the release timing of the iQOO 15 Ultra. The response was brief but telling, stating that the phone “seems to have been delayed.” No additional explanation was provided, but the comment fueled speculation around the status of iQOO’s most anticipated high-end variant.
The standard iQOO 15 was officially launched on October 20 this year. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and includes a dedicated Q3 gaming chip, a 3x telephoto camera, a refined camera island design, and a 7,000mAh battery. On the front, the phone features a Samsung 2K M14 OLED display that reaches up to 2,600 nits in high-brightness mode and peaks at 6,000 nits. Cooling is handled by an 8K vapor chamber system—the largest VC solution ever used by the brand. You can check out our full review of the phone for a deeper look.
Coming back to the rumored “Ultra” model, the branding alone suggests it will be even more spec-heavy, at least in some areas—potentially offering a more capable camera system. Like the regular model, the iQOO 15 Ultra is expected to target a specific user base.
Taken together, the latest remarks reinforce the idea that iQOO’s Ultra model remains in limbo. For now, the iQOO 15 Ultra appears to be delayed, with its future hinging on internal decisions that have yet to be finalized.
Recently, iQOO unveiled the iQOO 15and iQOO Neo 11v flagship phones in China. The brand is said to be working on the iQOO 15 Mini and iQOO 15 Ultra, but these phones are expected to launch a bit later in the first half of 2026. A new leak now suggests that the brand may announce a new Z-series phone in the next few weeks.
Alleged iQOO Z11 Turbo Pro in works
To recall, the iQOO Z10 series, which debuted earlier this year in China, included models such as the iQOO Z10x, iQOO Z10 Turbo, iQOO Z10 Turbo Pro, and iQOO Z10 Turbo Pro+. As can be seen, a reliable tipster has mentioned that iQOO is testing a new Z-series phone. It is still not clear whether it will be yet another addition to the Z10 lineup or an all-new Z11 series device.
The leak reveals that the upcoming iQOO Z-series phone will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, which recently went official. Considering the fact that it is a brand-new chip, this phone could be part of the next-generation Z11 Turbo Pro lineup, to be more precise.
The leak further reveals that the alleged iQOO Z11 Turbo Pro will have a 6.59-inch OLED panel offering a 1.5K resolution. Unfortunately, there is no other information available about this phone at the moment.
iQOO Z10 Turbo Pro
The alleged iQOO Z11 Turbo Pro is expected to rival the recently unveiled OnePlus Ace 6T, which also features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, in China. The Realme Neo 8 Pro and Moto X70 Ultra, which is expected to launch globally as the Motorola Edge 70 Ultra, are also tipped to feature the same chipset.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Huawei Nova 15 series news has finally moved beyond speculation. After weeks of leaks and mixed timelines, Huawei has now confirmed that the Nova 15 lineup is ready to debut in China. The brand has released official teaser images that give a first look at the design while also locking in the launch window. While these visuals do not reveal full specifications, they clearly indicate that Huawei is preparing a noticeable update to its popular Nova range.
Huawei Nova 15 series launch date
Huawei has confirmed that the Nova 15 series will launch in China on Dec. 22. At present, there is no clarity on whether these phones will be introduced in global markets or remain China-exclusive.
The official image reveals a redesigned rear camera layout for the Nova 15 Ultra. The phone features a rectangular camera module that houses two separate circular sections. One circle contains the three rear cameras, while the second circle accommodates the LED flash along with the “XD Portrait” branding, giving the device a more distinctive and premium visual identity. Likely, the other Nova 15 models may sport the same design language.
Huawei Nova 15 series: What’s known so far?
According to leaks, the Nova lineup will include three models: Nova 15, Nova 15 Pro, and Nova 15 Ultra. The standard Nova 15 is expected to feature a 6.7-inch display, while the Pro model could arrive with a larger 6.84-inch screen. Both are tipped to use 1.5K LTPO OLED panels for smoother visuals and improved efficiency.
According to tipster Bald Panda, both the Nova 15 and Nova 15 Pro are expected to be powered by the Kirin 8020 chipset. The Nova 15 Ultra, however, may use a more powerful Kirin 9010S processor, with a Kirin 9020A also mentioned as a possible alternative.
The Nova 15 Pro may come with a dual front camera setup featuring 50-megapixel and 8-megapixel sensors, while the standard model could stick to a single 50-megapixel front camera. On the rear, the Pro variant is said to include a 50-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto lens, an ultra-wide camera, and a multispectral sensor for better colour accuracy. All three models are said to pack a 5,700mAh battery.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
In November, Oppo unveiled the Reno 15 and Reno 15 Pro in China. At that time, the brand confirmed that it would unveil a third model called the Reno 15c in December. The day has finally arrived, as the Reno 15c has been officially launched. Here’s a look at its specifications and price.
Oppo Reno 15c specifications and features
Oppo Reno 15c
The Oppo Reno 15c sports a 6.59-inch flat OLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, offering smooth visuals and sharp clarity for everyday use and media consumption. For security, it has an in-screen fingerprint sensor.
Powering the smartphone is the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor. It is paired with 12GB of RAM, while storage options include 256GB and 512GB variants. The Reno 15c packs a 6,500mAh battery and supports 80W fast charging, aimed at reducing downtime during heavy use.
For imaging, the Oppo Reno 15c features a 50-megapixel front camera for selfies and video calls. On the rear, there is a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-600 primary camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera using the IMX355 sensor, and a 50-megapixel telephoto camera with the Samsung JN5 sensor.
Oppo Reno 15c
The Reno 15c runs Android 16 out of the box with ColorOS 16 on top. Other features include an under-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and an x-axis linear motor. It supports dual SIM 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, an IR blaster, and a USB-C port. The 15c features a glass back design and comes with IP66, IP68, and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance. It measures 158 x 74.83 x 7.77mm and weighs 197 grams.
Oppo Reno 15c price and availability
The Oppo Reno 15c is priced at 2,899 Yuan (~$410) for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant, while the 12GB RAM and 512GB storage model costs 3,199 Yuan (~$450). Scheduled to go on sale from Dec. 19 in China, it will be available in Starlight Bow, Aurora Blue, and College Blue color options.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
OpenAI has been hinting for a while that ChatGPT would eventually loosen its strict content rules for adult users. Now, the company has finally put a timeline on it. According to OpenAI, ChatGPT’s much-discussed “Adult Mode” is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2026.
The update was revealed during a recent briefing on the GPT-5.2 model, where Fidji Simo, OpenAI’s CEO of Applications, shared new details about how and when the feature will arrive.
FILE PHOTO: OpenAI and ChatGPT logos are seen in this illustration taken, February 3, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
For years, ChatGPT has been criticized for being overly restrictive, especially when it comes to mature topics, sexuality, or adult-oriented conversations. While those guardrails were designed to keep users safe, many adults have complained that the chatbot felt “less useful” or even “less enjoyable” because of them.
Adult Mode will change that by allowing more open, mature conversations, including erotica and less filtered language, for verified adults. But OpenAI says the biggest challenge isn’t the content itself, it’s making sure minors don’t access it.
Age verification is the real hurdle
Before Adult Mode can go live, OpenAI needs a reliable way to tell whether a user is under 18. Simo stressed that the company’s top priority is accuracy, especially avoiding a situation where adults are mistakenly flagged as teenagers, or worse, minors slip through the system.
Right now, OpenAI is in the early testing phase of its age prediction model. The system uses AI to analyze user behavior and estimate age, rather than relying only on simple “Are you 18?” checkboxes. According to Simo, testing is already underway in select countries to see how well the system identifies teenage users while minimizing false positives for adults.
In some regions, OpenAI may also introduce government ID verification through third-party services, adding an extra layer of protection where required by law.
Opt-in, not automatic
Importantly, Adult Mode won’t be switched on by default. Even after the feature launches, users will need to explicitly opt in and pass the age verification process to unlock it. Teen users, meanwhile, will remain under stricter safety rules and content limitations.
OpenAI says this cautious approach is necessary given the risks involved. Traditional age verification systems have often failed to stop minors from accessing explicit content online, and the company is trying to avoid repeating those mistakes.
If everything goes according to plan, ChatGPT will have Adult Mode in early 2026. We hope OpenAI takes the necessary steps to ensure that it’s used in the way it should be.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
TSMC’s dominance in advanced chip manufacturing has been good for consistency, but it also comes with downsides. When one company controls most of the cutting-edge process nodes, chipmakers have fewer options, and that usually means higher prices.
TSMC has also revealed its plans to raise foundry prices over the next three years, which puts even more pressure on companies that rely on it.
So it’s not surprising that brands are looking elsewhere, and Samsung seems to be a safe bet for many. The company recently signed massive deals with Apple and Tesla, and a new report suggests AMD could be its next client.
AMD could use Samsung’s 2nm fabrication
According to reports from South Korea, AMD might use Samsung’s 2nm process for some future chips. In fact, Samsung chairman Lee Jae-yong is expected to meet AMD CEO Lisa Su to discuss the partnership.
This isn’t entirely out of the blue. Su has hinted before that AMD wants more manufacturing options, but Samsung’s past issues related to yields made it a hard sell. For a long time, Samsung’s leading-edge nodes didn’t inspire enough confidence for large, high-value orders.
That seems to be changing at 2nm. Samsung’s manufacturing process is now more stable, with its first 2nm chip receiving a positive response in terms of yield and performance, at least so far.
More importantly, AMD isn’t expected to jump in at the very start. Instead, the company is said to be targeting Samsung’s second-generation 2nm node, known as SF2P.
This is the higher-performance version of the process and comes with noticeable improvements. Samsung claims SF2P delivers better performance, significantly lower power consumption, and a smaller chip footprint compared to its first 2nm offering.
Mass production of SF2P is expected to begin in 2026, followed by an improved SF2P+ version in 2027. If talks go well, AMD and Samsung could finalize a deal as soon as next month. For Samsung, AMD would become another high-profile customer for its 2nm line after Tesla.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
CORSAIR has announced a new limited-edition gaming and creator peripheral lineup inspired by Nuka Cola, the fictional drink from the Fallout franchise. The collaboration spans products from CORSAIR, Elgato, and Drop, bringing Fallout-themed designs to headsets, keyboards, microphones, streaming tools, and desk accessories.
The launch comes at a time when Fallout continues to attract a growing audience through its long-running game series and the recent television adaptation. CORSAIR says the collection is aimed at fans who want their gaming or streaming setups to reflect their interest in the franchise.
The CORSAIR HS80 RGB Wireless Gaming Headset: Nuka Cola Edition is one of the highlights of the lineup. It supports 3D spatial audio to help players detect in-game movement and direction. The headset features a custom Nuka Cola design with Nuka Girl artwork on the earcups, Cappy and Bottle characters on the headband, and Fallout branding across the body. It keeps the same wireless performance, comfort, and audio tuning found on the standard HS80 model.
Drop’s Nuka Cola Collection focuses on mechanical keyboards and desk accessories. The Drop CSTM80 Mechanical Keyboard is a tenkeyless, hot-swappable keyboard with Fallout-themed key designs and mascots. It includes multiple sound-dampening layers, such as PORON plate foam and IXPE switch foam, to improve typing sound and reduce noise. The collection also includes a 90 x 40 cm desk mat, an MT3-profile keycap set, and four artisan keycaps. These artisan keycaps are designed as Fallout-themed items, including Nuka Cola Power Armor, the Thirst Zapper, a Nuka Cola vending machine, and a crate of Nuka Cola bottles.
Elgato’s Nuka Cola lineup targets streamers and content creators. It includes a 15-key Stream Deck, the Wave:3 USB microphone, and the Wave Mic Arm LP. Stream Deck allows users to control apps, games, and hardware using customizable keys and built-in integrations. The Wave:3 microphone offers professional-grade audio through a USB connection and works with Wave Link software for audio mixing. The Wave Mic Arm LP is a low-profile boom arm designed to position microphones without blocking screens or desk space. All three products feature a matching Nuka Cola-themed design.
Pricing & availability
The CORSAIR Nuka Cola Collection is available now in limited quantities through CORSAIR and Amazon. Pricing is as follows: the 10-piece bundle costs $1,099.99 or €1,129.99. Individual products include the Nuka Cola Stream Deck at $159.99 or €179.99, Wave:3 microphone at $159.99 or €179.99, mic arm at $109.99 or €119.99, HS80 RGB Wireless headset at $169.99 or €159.99, CSTM80 keyboard at $299.99 or €299.99, MT3 keycap set at $119.99 or €119.99, desk mat at $49.99 or €49.99, and vault-crafted artisan keycaps at $69.99 or €69.99 each.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
OnePlus is preparing to launch the OnePlus 15R next month, and new leaks have now revealed its storage options and expected pricing for India. The smartphone is set to launch on December 17, 2025, and will arrive alongside other OnePlus products.
OnePlus 15R colors
According to information shared by X tipster @passionategeekz, the OnePlus 15R will be sold in two storage variants in India. Both models will come with 12GB RAM. Buyers can choose between 256GB and 512GB internal storage options. The tipster claims that the 12GB and 512GB variant could be priced above Rs 52,000 based on an internal source. This places the base 12GB and 256GB model in the Rs 47,000 to Rs 49,000 range.
OnePlus is also expected to offer launch-day bank discounts. These offers could bring down the price by Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000, lowering the effective cost for buyers. Final pricing and offers will be confirmed at launch.
The OnePlus 15R will launch in India and other global markets on December 17. The phone will be available in Black and Green color options. OnePlus will also introduce an Ace Edition variant in a Purple color. On the same day, the company will launch the OnePlus Pad Go 2 tablet for Indian and global users. The OnePlus Watch Lite will be unveiled for customers in European markets.
OnePlus has already confirmed that the 15R will feature a 32 megapixel front camera with autofocus support. This is the most advanced selfie camera ever used on an R series phone. Last year’s OnePlus 13R featured a 16 megapixel front camera. The new sensor supports 4K video recording at 30fps, while the 13R was limited to 1080p video. The phone also includes the DetailMax Engine, which uses advanced computational photography to improve image quality.
With this upgrade, the OnePlus 15R matches the OnePlus 15 in selfie camera resolution. However, the two phones use different sensors. The OnePlus 15 uses a Sony IMX709 sensor, while the OnePlus 15R is rumored to feature an OmniVision sensor.
Other confirmed specifications include a 1.5K resolution display with a 165Hz refresh rate, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, and a 7,400mAh battery with 80W fast charging. The phone will run OxygenOS 16 and feature a Plus Key. It will also include a 50 megapixel main camera with 4K 120fps video recording support and an IP68 and IP69 rated dust and water resistant body.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
According to a new report from Counterpoint Research, global shipments of foldable smartphone panels are expected to grow 46% year-on-year in 2026. The growth will be largely driven by Apple’s entry into the foldable market, as the company begins sourcing panels for its first foldable iPhone.
Image Credit: macrumors
Apple’s move is expected to reignite interest in the foldables category. Counterpoint believes this will lead to a sharp increase in demand across the supply chain and push average selling prices higher next year. The report states that Samsung Display will be the biggest winner, with its market share projected to reach 57% in 2026.
The research firm also expects the book-style foldable design to solidify its dominance. These devices feature large, inward-folding screens and are gaining popularity among consumers who want more productivity and bigger display areas.
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 already showed signs of this trend. During the early sales window in the second half of 2025, the Fold model outsold the clamshell-style Flip model for the first time. Counterpoint noted a similar trend in China, where consumers are now prioritizing larger foldables despite higher prices.
On the supply side, panel makers are expected to experience uneven growth. BOE could see an 8% year-on-year decline in shipment share, while Visionox is forecast to grow 8%. TCL CSOT is expected to grow 47%, and Tianma may post a 580% year-on-year surge.
Counterpoint estimates that overall foldable smartphone shipments will grow 14% in 2025 and 38% in 2026. With Apple’s foldable iPhone on the horizon, the market is set for a significant boost in both volume and innovation.
For more daily updates, please visit ourNews Section.
At this point, most of the Realme 16 Pro’s hardware isn’t much of a mystery. The device has already surfaced on China’s TENAA certification, which has revealed nearly all of its key specifications.
The main missing detail was the chipset, and that gap has now been filled thanks to a recent Geekbench listing.
Realme 16 Pro could use Dimensity 7300
The Realme 16 Pro showed up on Geekbench under the model number RMX5120. The listing reveals an octa-core processor with four performance cores clocked at 2.5GHz and four efficiency cores running at 2.0GHz, paired with a Mali-G615 MC2 GPU. Based on those details, the phone is likely powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 7300 chipset.
What’s interesting is that Realme 15 Pro is powered by Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, a more powerful SoC than what’s on its successor. In other words, the newer model may take a step back in raw performance, at least on paper.
That said, Realme has already confirmed that the higher-end Realme 16 Pro+ will use a Snapdragon chip.
As for the rest of the hardware, the Realme 16 Pro features a 6.78-inch OLED display with a 1.5K resolution. The rear camera setup is a pair of a 200-megapixel primary sensor and an 8-megapixel secondary camera. Up front, there’s a 50-megapixel selfie camera.
Software-wise, the device is expected to ship with Realme UI 7 based on Android 16. The Realme 16 Pro also packs a large battery. TENAA lists its rated capacity at 6,830mAh, which likely translates to a typical capacity of around 7,000mAh. It will charge via an 80W adapter.
The certification listing also mentions an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor and an IR blaster.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
GameMT has officially teased its new budget gaming handheld, the EX5. The device features a 5-inch 1080p IPS LCD display and runs on MediaTek’s Helio G81 chipset. The company revealed the EX5 through a teaser video on the Roybeila YouTube channel, showing off a design that resembles Sony’s PlayStation Vita but introduces some unconventional elements.
The EX5 is powered by a 12nm Helio G81 processor, which includes two Cortex-A75 cores and six Cortex-A55 cores, along with a Mali-G52 MP2 GPU. GameMT pairs this chipset with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. It also comes with a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
The EX5 handles connectivity through dual-band Wi-Fi 5, supporting both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Its 5-inch display has a 1920×1080 resolution, which is relatively high for a device in this price segment. The handheld runs Android and supports a variety of gaming platforms. According to the teaser, the handheld supports cloud gaming, native Android titles, and popular emulation frontends like ES-DE and Pegasus.
In terms of design, the EX5 includes a D-pad, face buttons, shoulder triggers, and a single thumbstick on the left. Instead of placing a second thumbstick on the right, GameMT has added a physical switch that allows users to toggle between three performance profiles: Performance, Balanced, and “Pwrsave-Auto.” This switch resembles a mechanical dial, which adds a unique touch to the otherwise familiar layout.
The EX5 will be available in three color options: white, black, and dark blue. GameMT has not yet announced a specific release date or price, but the teaser confirms that the device is “coming soon.”
In related news, Ayaneo has recently introduced the Pocket DMG Silver Limited Edition powered by the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2, and also unveiled the Pocket Vert featuring a 3.5-inch LTPS LCD, a dual-mode hidden touchpad, and a 6000mAh battery.
For more daily updates, please visit ourNews Section.
Realme has already started teasing the new Realme 16 Pro series. So far, we have only heard news of its imminent release and Luma color imaging tech. But now, the Realme 16 Pro and Realme 16 Pro+ models have just had their availability revealed and even showcased the gorgeous design.
World renowned designer sculpts the Realme 16 Pro series
Realme 16 Pro in Master Gold
The Chinese brand is expected to debut in the Indian market on 6th January 2026. But ahead of the official release, the Realme 16 Pro models are confirmed to be released via Flipkart, a popular e-retailer platform in India. Looking at the teaser image posters, the Realme 16 Pro series can be seen in an attractive new look. Naoto Fukasawa, a master designer, helped design the Realme 16 Pro.
Interestingly, the camera module of the smartphone looks quite similar to the OnePlus 15, just flipped horizontally. So you get a dual tone look with a matte finish on the rear panel and a shiny camera module. The Realme 16 Pro series was also teased in multiple color options, which include Camellia Pink, Orchid Purple, Master Gold, and Pebble Gray.
Realme 16 Pro in Camellia Pink and Orchid Purple
Based on what we know so far, the Realme 16 Pro+ model is expected to be equipped with the Snapdragon chipset. Rumors hint at a massive 7,000mAh battery pack that could support 80W wired fast charging. On the front, this model could sport a tall 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and a 50MP selfie shooter. Meanwhile, the rear packs a triple camera setup that includes a 200MP main camera, an 8MP ultra wide angle lens, and a periscope telephoto shooter.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Amazon currently offers the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally handheld at $489.99 with free shipping. This base model from Microsoft’s latest portable Xbox lineup launched at $600 just months ago, and the $110 discount sets a new all-time low. It surpasses the previous $499.99 seen briefly at Best Buy during Black Friday by $10. Such aggressive early pricing on a new Xbox-branded console is rare and ideal for holiday handheld seekers and is enhanced by the included three months of Game Pass Premium at no extra cost.
Xbox ROG Ally Handheld Features and Specifications
The Xbox ROG Ally is a good choice for casual gamers as an entry-level variant. Microsoft confirms seamless performance powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD. It mirrors the pricier Xbox All Access with a 7-inch FHD 16:9 IPS touchscreen (120 Hz VRR, 500 nits), a shared form factor, an all-white chassis, Xbox-inspired controls, and a microSD slot.
The Xbox ROG Ally gaming handheld brings Windows flexibility, ROG craftsmanship, and Xbox power together in a portable design. Developed with Xbox, it delivers a unified experience across Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games, and other platforms in a single device. Powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 processor, it ensures a fluid, responsive performance for cloud streaming and active games alike.
Equipped with 16 GB LPDDR5 6400 MHz memory and a 512 GB SSD, the ROG Xbox Ally handles indie titles and demanding AAA games effortlessly. A 60 Wh battery supports extended sessions. A 60 Wh battery supports extended sessions, complemented by improved ergonomics and Xbox-style grips for all-day comfort. The 7-inch FHD 120 Hz display with FreeSync Premium offers sharp, smooth visuals, while a dedicated button launches the full Xbox interface instantly.
The Xbox Ally handheld featured prominently in this year’s PC gaming holiday gift guide, making this deal a clear standout and also a perfect holiday gift. If you want to know more deals on gadgets, just go through our deals section.
As tempting as the Galaxy S25 Ultra may look on paper, all signs point to its successor, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, being the real flagship to wait for. With launch expected in February 2026, the S26 Ultra is shaping up to be Samsung’s most refined and forward-thinking phone in years. The leaks make a compelling case for patience.
Refined Design
For the first time since the Galaxy S22 Ultra, Samsung is rethinking the visual identity of its top-tier phone. The Galaxy S26 Ultra may ditch the signature floating camera rings in favor of a cleaner, pill-shaped camera island. This move aligns it more with the Galaxy Fold series. It could make the S26 Ultra feel like a more cohesive and premium device in hand, especially as it also gets rounder corners and a slimmer frame at just 7.9mm thick. The rear camera bump may grow in height, but that is likely to accommodate new sensors.
Samsung is also reportedly using a next-gen Gorilla Armor glass with improved anti-reflection and durability, along with a 15% larger vapor chamber for better cooling. These tweaks might not sound revolutionary, but they point to a phone that will feel cooler, sharper, and more balanced to use, especially during long gaming or video editing sessions.
Smarter Display
Leaked details suggest the S26 Ultra’s 6.9-inch AMOLED screen will be backed by a new CoE depolarizer layer that improves brightness and efficiency by letting more light through the panel. There is also talk of AI Magic Flex Screen technology, where AI dynamically adjusts pixel angles to create built-in privacy filters. Think of it as smart screen dimming that kicks in only when needed.
And yes, the S Pen is still here, though it is now more of a writing tool than a full-blown remote. Rumors suggest this might be the last Ultra phone to feature the built-in stylus before Samsung turns it into an external accessory.
Subtle But Crucial Camera Upgrades
Samsung isn’t doing a complete camera overhaul this year. The S26 Ultra will likely retain the 200MP ISOCELL HP2 main sensor but bump the aperture from f/1.7 to f/1.4 for significantly better low-light shots. There are whispers of improved coatings on the lenses and possibly a new 12MP telephoto camera, though you should not expect a zoom revolution.
The real game-changer could be Samsung’s AI-enhanced imaging. Plus, the debut of APV Codec, a rival to Apple ProRes, could turn the Ultra into a mobile filmmaking machine.
Hardware Improvements
Unlike the S25 Ultra, which came exclusively with a Snapdragon chip, the S26 Ultra could split between the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and Samsung’s in-house Exynos 2600 depending on the region. Early benchmarks suggest both are powerful, with Samsung’s 2nm GAA Exynos chip possibly more efficient on paper.
Paired with up to 16GB RAM (no small commitment in today’s memory market), a massive vapor cooling system, and faster storage, the S26 Ultra should feel significantly more responsive, especially with heavy multitasking and Galaxy AI features that benefit from more memory headroom.
Faster Charging
Where the S25 Ultra capped out at 45W charging, the S26 Ultra is rumored to support up to 60W or even 65W. That would be a long overdue upgrade. If the leaks are accurate, Samsung is also embracing Qi2 wireless charging, enabling MagSafe-style accessories. You may lose reverse wireless charging, but for many, the trade-off will be worth it.
So Should You Wait?
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is a great phone, but if you’re buying now, you’re likely committing to a device that could feel outdated in just a few months. With the Galaxy S26 Ultra poised to bring a sleeker body, more intelligent display, faster charging, enhanced AI software, and serious camera refinements, it makes sense to wait.
February 2026 isn’t that far away, and based on what we’ve seen so far, the wait will be worth it.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
As holidays are coming, so are the deals at various retailers. Meet the JBL Flip 7, your fist-sized fun machine that laughs at “small talk” with blooming bass and bold vibes! The compact beast turns beach hangs, road trips, or shower jams into epic sound parties.
Now, the JBL Flip 7 will cost you around ₹12,000 (effectively), whereas the MRP of the product is ₹18,999. If you make the payment through the selected bank cards, you can get 7.5% instant discount up to ₹1500. Which makes the JBL Flip 7 price just ₹12,000.
Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
JBL Flip 7 Features and Specifications
The JBL Flip 7 portable speaker packs 25W of dynamic driver power into a cylindrical purple design measuring 2.8D x 7.2W x 2.7H in cm and weighing 558g for easy handling. It features a 3-inch woofer, 0.6-inch tweeter, 16-ohm impedance, and 80 dB signal-to-noise ratio, with Bluetooth wireless connectivity, app control, and stereo pairing for immersive 2.0 surround sound. AI Sound Boost analyses music in real time for peak acoustic performance and minimal distortion
Built tough with IP67 waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof ratings. It suits indoor/outdoor use like parties, travel, gaming, or music on smartphones, tablets, TVs, and more. The 4800 mAh lithium polymer battery delivers 16 hours of playtime and 2.5 hours of charge via 5V input, complete with a quick guide, safety sheet, and warranty card.
The compact size and budget friendliness make this a perfect gift for this holiday. If you want to know more deals on gadgets just go through our deals section.
Xiaomi’s upcoming release cycle seems fairly packed. According to digital blogger Digital Chat Station, the company is prepping to launch everything from flagship smartphones to wearables and IoT devices ahead of the Spring Festival in China.
According to DCS, the upcoming lineup includes a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5-powered imaging flagship, two midrange smartphones powered by MediaTek Dimensity chips, a new smartwatch, two pairs of earbuds, a midrange tablet, and several IoT devices.
Here’s what’s coming
Unsurprisingly, the Snapdragon-run flagship is the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. The phone is reportedly set to be announced as early as next week, with a full release planned for later this month.
The 17 Ultra will feature a 1-inch Leica main camera, which is likely a domestically produced OmniVision OV50X sensor. It joins a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 200-megapixel periscope telephoto lens on the rear.
Xiaomi is also expanding its midrange portfolio with two new devices. The Redmi Turbo 5 is expected to be the first smartphone to use the Dimensity 8500 chip. Whereas the Redmi Turbo 5 Pro will move further up the stack with Dimensity 9500e.
Wearables aren’t being left out either. The new Xiaomi smartwatch has been revealed to run Android with Xiaomi’s HyperOS and feature a 930mAh battery. It also supports eSIM technology via an independent eUICC chip, making it fully capable of functioning without a smartphone.
Rounding out the lineup are two pairs of earbuds, a midrange tablet, and several IoT devices, though details on those remain sparse.
It’s still unclear whether all of these products will launch at the same time or across multiple events. Xiaomi is likely to plan a dedicated launch for the 17 Ultra, and if not all, we expect some of the other devices to debut on the same day.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Xiaomi appears to be moving closer to launching the REDMI Turbo 5 series. A new Xiaomi phone, listed under the model number 2602BRT18C, has cleared radio certification in China, a step that usually points to an upcoming launch.
According to Weibo tipster Smart Pikachu, the certified device belongs to the REDMI Turbo 5 lineup and is likely the REDMI Turbo 5 Pro. While Xiaomi has not confirmed the model yet, certification activity suggests launch preparations are already underway.
The REDMI Turbo 5 series is expected to include two models: the standard Turbo 5 and Turbo 5 Pro. The base model received its approval back in October. The reported Turbo 5 series launch window falls around January or February, ahead of the Chinese Spring Festival. @DigitalChatStation has also said that the Turbo 5 Pro is expected to arrive before the holiday.
Xiaomi 2602BRT18C radio certification
As per @DigitalChatStation, this generation of the Turbo series is being positioned more aggressively than before. The Turbo 5 Pro is said to feature a flagship-class chipset, along with custom performance tuning. The phone is also tipped to include the largest battery in its segment, paired with 100W fast charging.
Additional leaked details point to a metal frame. Other reported features include a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, full water resistance, and symmetrical stereo speakers. The overall design is said to lean toward a clean, minimal look.
For comparison, the previous REDMI Turbo 4 Pro was the first smartphone to launch with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset. It featured a 6.83-inch 1.5K flat display, a 50MP + 8MP rear camera setup, and support for 90W wired charging with 22.5W reverse charging.
More details about the REDMI Turbo 5 series are expected to surface in the coming weeks.
TicNote Pods, launched on Kickstarter, is an entirely new category in the wearables space. It is the world’s first 4G AI note-taking earbuds. Designed by Mobvoi, these earbuds are built to do far more than play music or take calls. With built-in 4G eSIM and a customized Shadow AI system, TicNote Pods can record, sync, and transcribe conversations completely on their own. There is no need for a smartphone, Bluetooth pairing, or manual uploads, making them truly independent and always connected.
Smart Recording, Wherever You Are
TicNote Pods are designed for real-life use across both personal and professional settings. When worn, the earbuds can clearly capture in-ear conversations, online meetings, Zoom calls, phone calls, interviews, and classroom lectures. They work seamlessly while you are actively listening or speaking, ensuring important details are never missed.
Even when you are not wearing the earbuds, the charging case itself doubles as a standalone recorder. Simply placing it on a table allows it to capture ambient room conversations. This is especially useful for group discussions, workshops, meetings, and spontaneous conversations, offering flexibility that traditional recording devices cannot match.
Real-Time AI Powered by 4G
Thanks to built-in 4G connectivity, TicNote Pods sync recordings instantly and process them in real time. Audio is uploaded and transcribed on the fly, delivering live transcripts and summaries with virtually no delay. Everything happens automatically in the background, removing friction from note-taking and allowing users to focus on the conversation instead of the technology.
Built for Professionals and Daily Workflows
TicNote Pods are tailored for professionals across many fields, including journalists, students, researchers, corporate teams, and content creators. AI tools include real-time translation, professional summary formats, and an understanding of industry-specific terminology. Over time, the system builds a personal knowledge base that becomes more useful with continued use.
Engineering, Testing, and Quality
Developing TicNote Pods required combining 4G connectivity, high-quality audio, and professional-grade recording into a compact design. Mobvoi went through multiple design revisions, acoustic simulations, and lab tests to ensure a balance between sound quality, microphone clarity, and signal stability. Final products undergo strict quality checks, including drop tests, humidity exposure, battery aging, and 4G signal testing, ensuring durability and reliability.
Powered by Mobvoi’s Experience
Backed by Mobvoi’s decade-long expertise in AI and wearables, TicNote Pods represent the next step in human-tech interaction. They are built with a clear goal: to make recording, transcribing, and translating conversations effortless, directly from your ears.
Price and Availability
TicNote Pods are available on Kickstarter with Super Early Bird bundles and worldwide shipping. Prices start at US$199 for a single 4G set, with higher tiers adding 600 minutes of monthly transcription and a 3-year 4G plan from US$299. Combo and multi-unit bundles (2–10 sets) range up to US$1,990, all with delivery expected in January 2026. Quantities are limited, so secure your order before stocks run out.
Only the last 15 days of 2025 remain, and Honor appears set to close the year with a bang by announcing the all-new Honor Win series, formerly known as the Honor GT 2. The lineup is expected to include two models that were previously dubbed the Honor GT 2 and GT 2 Pro. These new devices are likely to be called the Honor Win and Honor Win Pro. Images of the Honor Win series are currently doing the rounds on Chinese social media platforms, revealing a design similar to the Redmi K90 series.
Honor Win series images emerge
There are two sets of images circulating on Weibo. Both models feature a rectangular camera module with Win branding placed at the bottom-right corner. The module appears to house three cameras along with an LED flash. The handset that seems to be the base Honor Win could arrive in shades such as beige, black, white, and cyan.
In the other set of images, the LED flash is positioned toward the right side of the rectangular camera island. Alongside the camera setup, there appears to be a built-in cooling component, which suggests that this could be a performance-focused model. Its inclusion points to it being a higher-end offering, likely to be called the Honor Win Pro.
Readers should note that the images mentioned above are not verified, and it is unclear whether they are official renders. Additionally, the final marketing names of these devices have yet to be confirmed.
Based on reports, the Honor Win and Honor Win Pro could be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipsets, respectively. Both devices may feature a 1.5K OLED screen, a 50-megapixel main camera, and an around 8,500mAh battery with 100W charging support.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
The year 2027 will mark the 20th anniversary of Apple’s iPhone. Reports suggest that while the brand will announce the iPhone 18 series in 2026, it may skip the iPhone 19 lineup in 2027. The iPhone 19 series is said to be replaced by the iPhone 20 lineup in celebration of the 20th anniversary. A new report suggests that Xiaomi could also adopt a similar approach for its flagship series.
Xiaomi 19 could be skipped
Xiaomi 17 Pro Max
Last year, Xiaomi launched the Xiaomi 15 lineup, including the Xiaomi 15, 15 Pro, and 15 Ultra. These models were followed by the Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Ultra, skipping the Xiaomi 16 series entirely.
Xiaomi skipped the “16” in its flagship line to jump straight to the Xiaomi 17 series, primarily to create parity with Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup. This move positioned Xiaomi as a direct competitor and signaled a major leap in premium features, as confirmed by company President Lu Weibing.
The new report by XiaomiTime, which claims that the Xiaomi 19 series will be skipped, does not provide any concrete proof to support this claim. However, the possibility remains, as such a strategic numerical jump carries implications beyond marketing alone. Just as Xiaomi deliberately skipped the 16 series to launch the Xiaomi 17 in a clear, market-savvy move aimed at direct, name-for-name competition with the iPhone 17, it would not be surprising for the brand to repeat this tactic by bypassing the Xiaomi 19 series.
While Xiaomi is not celebrating a major anniversary in 2027 that would align perfectly with Apple’s potential move, such a calculated leap could ensure that Xiaomi’s next flagship, the Xiaomi 20, arrives alongside the rumored iPhone 20 in 2027, maintaining branding consistency and competitive positioning.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
The Poco F8 Pro and Poco F8 Ultra have debuted a couple of months earlier than expected. Recent certifications suggest that the M8 series could be next in line to break cover in multiple markets. A new report by XiaomiTimesuggests that Poco has reportedly decided to skip a couple of major models next year.
Poco X8 Pro Max incoming, Poco X8 takes an exit
Redmi Note 15 Pro+
The report, which is based on Mi code, claims that the following devices will be rebranded as Poco models.
Poco M8 5G: Rebranded version of Redmi Note 15 5G
Poco M8 Pro 5G: Rebranded version of the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G
Poco X8 Pro Max: Rebranded version of the Redmi Turbo 5 Pro Max (heading to China, yet to launch)
The standard Poco X8 is missing from the above list. The device hasn’t appeared in the GSMA IMEI database yet. This device, which was expected to be a rebranded version of the Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G, has reportedly been cancelled.
Previously, Poco offered up to three models in its X-series, including an entry-level Neo-branded model. In 2026, the X8 series will be shrunk to two models, such as the Poco X8 Pro and the X8 Pro Max. The report also claims that the X8 Pro will have a special Iron Man Edition.
Poco F8 may not exist
The China-exclusive Redmi K90 Pro Max and Redmi K90 have been rebranded as the Poco F8 Ultra and F8 Pro, respectively, for the global market. The report claims that the Poco F8 does not exist but has not concrete evidence to support this claim.
It will be interesting to see how these claims play out in reality, especially since the F8 was expected to be the only F8-series phone to launch in India, which remains one of Poco’s key markets.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Huawei has started rolling out a new HarmonyOS update for the Mate 80 series. The update, version 6.0.0.120 SP9, is going live and focuses mainly on camera behavior, gallery features, cross-device sharing, and system navigation.
Camera-related changes make up a large part of the update. Huawei says shooting has been optimized in movie effects and moon modes, with better stability when capturing moving subjects. Dynamic photo stabilization has been adjusted, and the Red Maple camera system now uses updated color tuning in certain scenes, improving results from telephoto and wide-angle lenses.
The Gallery app adds a new option that lets users delete photos only from the device while keeping them stored in the cloud. This is aimed at freeing up local storage without removing backups. Gallery desktop cards now support light dynamic effects, and a new custom album card allows multiple photos to be selected for playback from the home screen.
Huawei is also expanding Huawei Share support. Mate 80 devices can now send photos, videos, files, and contacts to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices, as long as the receiving device installs Huawei’s HarmonyOS Galaxy Interconnect app. Setup details are listed under Help & Feedback.
Privacy controls have been updated as well. Users can now limit app access to device orientation data, which helps prevent “shake” actions that can trigger unwanted ad redirects. The setting is located under Privacy and Security.
On the system side, the update introduces Outdoor Exploration Mode, adding gesture shortcuts for multitasking, quick app switching, split screen, and floating windows. Huawei also notes general performance and stability improvements.
The Weather app now shows dynamic icons that change based on local conditions.
The update is rolling out in stages, so availability may vary.
As mobile gaming continues to surge in popularity, 2025 has emerged as one of the strongest years yet for gaming-centric smartphones. With powerful chipsets, high-refresh displays, advanced cooling systems, and massive batteries, the latest flagships aren’t just phones anymore; they are pocket-sized gaming rigs. Whether you’re into competitive shooters, open-world RPBs, or intense battle royales, there’s plenty of great gaming smartphones to choose from.
So here’s our list of the best gaming smartphones of 2025.
Red Magic 11 Pro+
There are only a few brands that have a pure gaming pedigree, like Red Magic. So if you want a phone built from the ground up for performance and long gaming sessions, look no further than the Red Magic 11 Pro+. Unlike modern flagships that aim to offer a balanced experience, the Chinese brand goes all in on gaming.
Red Magic 11 Pro+
It features a tall 6.85-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate for an immersive gaming experience. Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, it pairs up to 24GB LPDDR5T RAM and up to 1TB UFS 4.1 storage, more than enough for even the most demanding mobile titles. But what truly sets it apart is the dual cooling system. Not only does it have an active cooling system with a physical RGB fan, but it also features a vapor chamber liquid cooling. You can even see this system in the words as the liquid moves around in the pipes on the back.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
While Apple isn’t known to brand any of its devices as a gaming phone, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is a premium phone that delivers true flagship performance. Not only can you play some of the most intense mobile game titles, but Apple has also ported actual console-level games to its iOS platform.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
So you can play popular games like Resident Evil 4, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Death Stranding, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, and many more. So you have access to an impressive catalogue of games without relying on any particular streaming service.
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iQOO 15
If you want flagship-class power without the premium flagship price, the iQOO 15 emerges as one of the best value flagships for gamers in 2025. It ships with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset that brings cutting-edge performance. Pair this with a tall 6.85-inch LTPO AMOLED display, and you get a smooth gameplay experience.
iQOO 15
One of its highlighting aspects is the massive 7,000mAh battery pack that promises long, uninterrupted gaming sessions. While it may lack some of the dedicated gaming-phone trappings like active cooling or shoulder triggers, its value-for-money positioning makes it attractive for casual and competitive gamers who don’t want to overspend.
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OnePlus 15
The OnePlus 15 strikes a sweet balance between raw performance, everyday usability, and gaming-ready hardware. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 as well, but it pairs it with an even higher 165Hz refresh rate. The smooth display kicks in while you run certain titles, which brings an advantage in various competitive games.
OnePlus 15
This model outshines the iQOO 15 with its gigantic 7,300mAh battery pack that supports 120W wired fast charging as well as 50W wireless fast charging. It even supports bypass charging, which allows the device to run on a wired connection to prevent any overheating, so the battery doesn’t get damaged, and there is no performance throttling.
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Honor GT Pro
Rounding out the list is the Honor GT Pro. A device that often flies under mainstream headlines but deserves attention if you’re serious about mobile gaming. While not always hyped, the Honor GT Pro has built a reputation for balancing performance, display quality, and capable cameras.
Honor GT Pro
Just like the rest of Android flagships in this list, you get the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite and a huge 7,200mAh battery pack. Honor announced this model earlier in the year, so it arrived ahead of the current flagship generation. However, the brand marketed this as a dedicated gaming smartphone since it packed the Leading Edition variant of the Snapdragon 8 Elite along with a three stage cooling system that includes a 3D vapor cooling chamber, thermal conductive adhesive, and AI powered temperature control system.
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Vivo has already completed the global rollout of its X300 and X300 Pro smartphones, but the lineup is not finished yet. In 2026, the company will add a third model to the mix, called the Vivo X300 Ultra.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, the talk of this phone is the camera. It is expected to have a pair of 200MP lenses, one for wide and another for telephoto duties, along with a 50MP ultrawide unit.
But the X300 Ultra might not be the only imaging product Vivo has planned for next year. According to a prominent tipster, Digital Chat Station on Weibo, the company is also working on a standalone action camera.
Vivo action camera incoming in 2026
The device is said to be tentatively scheduled for launch in the first half of 2026. Although not certain, there’s a possibility that it could debut alongside the X300 Ultra. The tipster refrained from sharing any technical specifications of the action cam, though.
Still, Vivo entering the action camera space wouldn’t be entirely out of character. The company was among the first smartphone brands to experiment with hardware-based stabilization, debuting a micro-gimbal system on the Vivo X50 Pro.
Vivo continued to use gimbal-based stabilization on its rear cameras until the X80 series. However, the technology was phased out as camera sensors became physically larger and heavier to be moved by previous micro-gimbal mechanisms.
So the history suggests Vivo already has meaningful experience in both hardware and software stabilization — two of the most critical elements of any action camera. Turning that expertise into a dedicated product feels like a logical next step.
Given Vivo’s recent success in smartphone camera innovation, it will be interesting to see what the brand brings to the action camera market.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
OnePlus is gradually confirming the key specs of the OnePlus 15R, which is set to break cover on Dec. 17. The brand has recently confirmed that the 15R will have an upgraded front camera. It offers the same megapixel count as the OnePlus 15’s front camera.
OnePlus 15R selfie camera revealed
OnePlus 15R’s front camera revealed
The OnePlus 15R is officially confirmed to feature a 32-megapixel front camera with autofocus support. It is the most advanced selfie camera on an R-series phone. This is a major upgrade, as last year’s OnePlus 13R featured a 16-megapixel front camera.
The 15R’s front camera is capable of capturing 4K videos at 30fps. This is also an upgrade, as the 13R’s front camera was limited to 1080p video. The 15R is also equipped with the DetailMax Engine, which offers advanced computational photography algorithms that enhance captured shots.
With the new selfie camera onboard, the OnePlus 15R levels itself with the OnePlus 15, which will also feature a 32-megapixel front camera with autofocus support. While the OnePlus 15 has a Sony IMX709 sensor powering the selfie camera, the OnePlus 15R is rumoured to be equipped with an OmniVision sensor for its front camera.
OnePlus 15R specs confirmed so far
So far, the brand has confirmed that the OnePlus 15R’s screen supports a 1.5K resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it has the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip and a 7,400mAh battery with 80W charging. It will also have other features such as OxygenOS 16, a Plus Key, a 50MP main camera with 4K 120fps video recording support, and an IP68/69-rated dust- and water-resistant body. It will be available in three shades: black, green, and violet.
The Oppo Find X9 Ultra has already been rumored to feature a rear camera setup that includes a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide, and two 50MP periscope telephoto cameras. This information is from back in October, but a new leak suggests Oppo may be rethinking part of that setup.
According to tipster Digital Chat Station, Oppo is considering replacing one of the telephoto cameras with a higher-resolution 200MP sensor. If that plan moves forward, the Find X9 Ultra’s rear camera system could look something like this:
200MP 1/1.12” main camera
50MP ultrawide
200MP 1/1.3” mid-telephoto
50MP super-telephoto
That said, this configuration doesn’t appear to be locked in yet. The leak suggests that mass production of a 200MP telephoto sensor is still uncertain. So if supply issues persist, Oppo may fall back on the previously rumored 50MP telephoto camera instead.
For selfies, the company is expected to use another 50MP unit.
Oppo Find X9 Ultra: other specs
While the Oppo Find X9 and Find X9 Pro feature the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset, the Ultra variant is tipped to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
Reports also claim that the Oppo Find X9 Ultra will sport a large 6.8-inch 2K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. The phone is expected to run ColorOS 16 based on Android 16 out of the box.
It is also said to pack a sizable cell of around 7,000mAh. In fact, it could be the Ultra-phone with the largest battery in 2026. Like the Pro model, it may support 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging.
The smartphone is likely to launch in China in early 2026, while the global debut is expected by late Q1 2026.
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The idea of a one-person company run almost entirely by Artificial Intelligence sounds like the inevitable future of work. But a recent experiment suggests that reality is far messier than the vision Silicon Valley often promotes.
Journalist Evan Ratliff put that idea to the test by creating HurumoAI, a startup where every “employee” except the founder is an AI agent. Using AI assistant platforms, Ratliff gave each agent its own email address, Slack account, and even a phone number. At first, the results were impressive. The AI staff could write code, build spreadsheets, and even help create a small app that attracted thousands of early users.
The problems started when the novelty wore off. Ratliff quickly discovered that his AI employees lacked basic boundaries and common sense. A casual question like “How was your weekend?” triggered hours of nonstop Slack messages, burning through API credits until he intervened manually. Even then, the AI often ignored stop commands or kept responding about why it was stopping.
This behavior wasn’t an isolated incident. Left unsupervised, the agents would either do nothing at all or spiral into excessive activity—sending emails, messages, and calendar invites to each other while accomplishing very little. Managing them became a balancing act: give enough instruction to make progress, but not so much freedom that chaos followed.
Despite the company’s “all-AI” label, HurumoAI couldn’t function without human help. A Stanford computer science student assisted Ratliff in building the underlying technical architecture and managing memory systems the AI couldn’t handle on its own. Even with those safeguards, the agents struggled with long-term planning, subjective decisions, and accurately reporting what they had actually done.
Ratliff compares today’s AI agents to early self-driving cars: useful in narrow situations, but far from fully autonomous. His takeaway is clear: AI can accelerate work, but removing humans from the loop doesn’t eliminate management—though that may change over time.
Huawei’s Nova 15 series is expected to arrive soon, but the launch schedule remains unclear. Reports from China have offered different timelines, with some pointing to a year-end debut and others suggesting Huawei pushed the release back to allow more time for hardware and software refinement.
Huawei Nova 14 Vitality Edition
A new update from tipster Fixed Focus Digital Cameras (定焦数码) now narrows the window. The source mentioned three dates in December: the 15th, 22nd, and 28th. While no official context was shared, online discussion suggests Huawei could begin promotions around December 15, hold the launch event on December 22, and open sales on December 28. If this plan is accurate, early teasers should surface within the next few days.
(Source:
Design changes are also part of the discussion. The Nova lineup has followed the same visual identity for several years, with only small adjustments to camera placement. Most models feature a circular camera ring placed either at the top or within a vertical pill-shaped module. Back finishes have varied between solid colors, leather textures, and patterned glass, but the structure has remained largely the same.
This could change with the Nova 15 series. According to the leak, Huawei is preparing more noticeable updates to the phone’s design. While specific details are not yet known, the shift may be similar in scale to recent design changes seen in Huawei’s higher-end models.
Earlier information from Digital Chat Station suggests the Nova 15 lineup will include three devices: Nova 15, Nova 15 Pro, and Nova 15 Ultra. The standard Nova 15 is expected to feature a 6.7-inch display, while the Nova 15 Pro could come with a slightly larger 6.84-inch panel. Both models are said to use 1.5K LTPO OLED displays.
Camera hardware is expected to see upgrades as well. The Nova 15 Pro may feature a dual front camera setup with 50MP and 8MP sensors, while the base model is likely to use a single 50MP camera. On the rear, the Pro model is tipped to include a 50MP main camera, a 50MP periscope telephoto lens, an ultra-wide camera, and a multispectral sensor to improve color accuracy and low-light performance. Both models are expected to be powered by new Kirin 8-series processors.
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OPPO began deploying stable ColorOS 16 based on Android 16 for the Find N2 Flip in India on December 9. Users on build CPH2437_16.0.1.310(EX01) can access the update, with international rollouts scheduled subsequently.
The update triggers background optimizations that may temporarily cause overheating, lag, and accelerated battery consumption for several days. OPPO recommends backing up data beforehand and updating third-party apps through the App Market to address potential Android 16 compatibility issues. Users can report bugs by dialing *#800#.
ColorOS 16 centers on AI functionality through the OPPO AI suite. AI Mind Space captures 60-second voice notes via long-pressing the Snap Key, automatically organizing entries into Smart Collections. Google Gemini integration enables natural language searches and summarization of saved content.
AI Recorder Assistant generates automatic titles and summaries for recordings while applying noise reduction for enhanced clarity. AI Writer provides content creation tools, generating social media captions from images and converting text into mind maps or tables.
Cross-device connectivity receives substantial upgrades. Users can receive and respond to iPhone calls and SMS on the Find N2 Flip when Bluetooth-connected. iPhone notification mirroring replicates app alerts to the OPPO device. PC screen mirroring supports simultaneous control of five app windows.
Performance enhancements arrive through the Trinity Engine, maintaining stable frame rates during intensive multitasking, and the Luminous Rendering Engine, delivering fluid system-wide animations.
Imaging features include AI Portrait Glow for enhanced facial lighting, Motion Photo Collage with slow-motion editing capabilities, and a comprehensive video editor offering clip trimming, speed adjustments, and format conversion.
The interface introduces Flux Themes, expanded widget selections, live Aqua Dynamics alerts, and refreshed Luminous Design aesthetics.
Security advances through OPPO Lock’s Call to Lock and SIM Lock functions. Call to Lock enables remote device locking for users in supported regions including India, while SIM Lock immediately secures the phone upon SIM card removal.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Samsung Foundry has a new thermal packaging solution called Heat Path Block (HPB), aiming to solve one of the most critical issues in advanced semiconductor design, heat buildup. The company is preparing to license this innovation to external clients, including Apple and Qualcomm, as it works to reestablish its position in the foundry market.
What is HPB and Why Does It Matter?
HPB is a copper-based thermal plate that sits directly above the application processor. In previous designs, Samsung placed the DRAM stack directly on top of the processor using Fan-Out Wafer-Level Packaging (FOWLP). The new Exynos 2600 design moves the DRAM to the side to make room for the HPB block, which now makes direct contact with the processor cores.
This repositioning improves heat transfer efficiency. Samsung claims a 30% reduction in average chip temperature compared to the previous generation. The thermal improvements are expected to help maintain peak performance in mobile processors during extended workloads, particularly in gaming and other intensive applications.
Rebuilding Trust with Apple and Qualcomm
Samsung plans to license HPB to potential clients, including Qualcomm and Apple. Both companies shifted major chip orders to TSMC in recent years. Qualcomm moved its Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Plus production in 2022, and Apple made the switch with the A10 back in 2016. Samsung now sees HPB as a potential draw to win back these customers.
The timing may work in Samsung’s favor. Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 reportedly consumes 19.5W under full load, significantly more than Apple’s A19 Pro at 12.1W. This high power draw results in greater heat generation, creating demand for better cooling at the chip level. Samsung’s HPB could directly address this concern.
Samsung’s own MX division, which buys Snapdragon chips for Galaxy devices, has already requested cooling performance at HPB levels. This request signals that the market is taking the technology seriously.
Strategic Timing with 2nm and GAA
HPB will debut with the Exynos 2600, which also serves as Samsung’s proof-of-concept for its 2nm chip manufacturing process. The company has already implemented gate-all-around (GAA) transistor architecture with its 3nm node and will continue using it at 2nm. TSMC, by contrast, plans to adopt GAA starting at the 2nm node.
Reports from South Korea suggest Samsung’s 2nm yield has reached between 55% and 60%. The company expects profitability in its foundry division by 2027, once its new Taylor, Texas fab ramps up. The fab is scheduled to begin operations in 2026 and will help double Samsung’s 2nm capacity by the end of that year.
Samsung’s early use of GAA and new thermal solutions could give it an edge as more chipmakers explore alternatives to TSMC.
The Bigger Picture
Samsung is using HPB as part of a broader strategy to revive its foundry business. The company has reorganized its packaging teams under the foundry and memory divisions to focus more closely on advanced chip integration.
Samsung has also taken a more flexible pricing approach to attract new clients. TSMC’s 2nm wafers are reportedly priced 50% higher than previous generations due to strong demand from clients like Nvidia and Apple. Samsung is using competitive pricing to secure contracts with smaller AI semiconductor firms such as Charbright, Anaplash, and South Korea’s DeepX.
In July, Samsung also secured a $16.5 billion deal to manufacture Tesla’s next-generation AI6 chips. The company is producing image sensors for Apple, ASICs for Chinese mining companies, and smartphone APs for its System LSI division. These contracts signal early momentum as Samsung works to diversify its client base.
Samsung is betting that HPB, combined with its 2nm and GAA advancements, will help close the gap with TSMC and restore confidence in its advanced nodes. If the Exynos 2600 performs well, it could mark a turning point in Samsung’s efforts to regain share in the global foundry market.
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Anker has officially kick-started its 2025 Christmas sale! Discounts of upto 58% on a wide range of its most popular charging accessories can be availed during this offer period.
The offer covers everything from high-capacity powerbanks to versatile docking stations.
Christmas Deals on Prime Series
One of the most notable sale is the Anker 240W 8-in-1 Prime Charging Station, now priced at $89.99 (originally $150). This 40% discount brings the unit back to its Black Friday price, offering two AC outlets, four USB-C ports, and two USB-A ports.
Other notable Prime Series discounts include:
14-in-1 Prime Docking Station: Now $175 ($270), offering 160W of total output.
3-in-1 25W Qi2 Prime Charging Station: Now $161 ($230).
300W 3-in-1 26,250mAh Prime Power Bank: Now $171.50 ($230).
Portable and Compact Solutions
For those who prioritize portability, Anker’s Nano and MagSafe lines are also seeing significant price cuts. The Anker Nano 45W 10,000mAh Power Bank is down to $43, while the ultra-slim 5K MagSafe Power Bank is available for $41. Additionally, the 140W 4-port USB-C Laptop Charger, featuring ActiveShield 2.0 safety monitoring, has been slashed to $64.99 from its usual $100 price tag.
Exclusive Incentives
In addition to the direct price cuts, shoppers purchasing directly through Anker’s website can benefit from:
Free Holiday Gifts: Included with qualifying orders placed through the official site.
Bundle Savings: Extra discounts are available for customers purchasing multiple items.
Member-Only Perks: Exclusive deals for registered Anker members.
Most of these deals are also being matched on Anker’s official Amazon product list, providing flexible shopping options. However, with these likely being the final major discounts of the year, stock is expected to move quickly as the holiday deadline approaches. If you missed out on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, this sale represents another opportunity to secure these popular charging gear at better prices.
Oppo has begun the stable rollout of ColorOS 16 based on Android 16 for select smartphones in India. The update is currently limited to Indian users. Oppo has not confirmed when it will roll out to other regions, but the company says wider availability is planned.
Oppo K13 Turbo series
The stable ColorOS 16 update is now available for the OPPO K13 Turbo Pro 5G and OPPO K13 Turbo 5G. Users can apply for the official version starting December 9. For the OPPO K13 Turbo Pro 5G, the required detectable version is CPH2731_16.0.1.301(EX01). For the OPPO K13 Turbo 5G, users must be on version CPH2761_16.0.1.300(EX01).
Oppo recommends backing up all important data before installing the update, as system incompatibility or unexpected issues could result in data loss. After installation, the system will run background optimizations. During this period, users may notice heating, lag, or faster battery drain. Oppo advises charging the device overnight with the screen turned off or continuing normal usage, as performance should return to normal within a few days. Some third-party apps may not yet support Android 16 and could crash or lag until updated. Bugs can be reported by opening the dialer and entering *#800#.
ColorOS 16 introduces several AI-powered features under OPPO AI. AI Mind Space allows users to capture ideas by long-pressing the Snap Key to record a 60-second voice note. Notes can be grouped automatically using Smart Collections. Integration with Google Gemini allows users to retrieve saved notes and combine them with web search results using voice queries.
The AI Recorder Assistant automatically generates titles and summaries for recordings and applies AI noise reduction to improve voice clarity. AI Writer can generate platform-specific social media captions from images, convert text into mind maps, and organize content into tables.
ColorOS 16 also improves cross-device connectivity. When connected via Bluetooth, iPhone calls and SMS messages can be synced to Oppo phones using the Oppo Dialer. iPhone app notifications can also be mirrored on Oppo devices. Phone screen mirroring to PC is supported through USB or cloud connection, with support for casting up to five individual app windows at the same time.
Performance upgrades include the new Trinity Engine, designed to maintain stable frame rates during heavy multitasking, and the Luminous Rendering Engine, which delivers smoother system animations across the interface.
Camera and creation tools include AI Portrait Glow for improved facial lighting, Motion Photo Collage with slow-motion playback, and an all-in-one video editor with clip trimming, speed control, resolution adjustment, frame rate selection, and background music support.
Design updates include Flux Themes with Motion Photo or video lock screens, expanded icon and widget sizing, app drawer category sorting, enhanced Aqua Dynamics live alerts, and new Luminous Design visuals. Security additions include OPPO Lock with Call to Lock support in India and SIM Lock, which locks the device instantly if the SIM card is removed.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Google’s Pixel phones are known for offering a stock Android experience and using Google’s own Tensor G-series processors. However, their performance has historically been somewhat underwhelming. That may be changing, as the latest Android 16 update has brought a noticeable improvement to Pixel 10 Pro XL performance.
Over the past few days, Google has rolled out the Android 16 QPR2 update to Pixel phones. Unexpectedly, users and testers discovered that device performance has improved significantly, especially in graphics performance.
Android Authority tested the Pixel 10 Pro XL and found that CPU performance gains were modest. In Geekbench 6, single-core performance improved by 2%, while multi-core performance increased by 5%, which isn’t a dramatic change.
PCMark’s Work 3.0 score, however, showed a much more substantial improvement, rising by 19.6%. This benchmark simulates everyday tasks such as web browsing and image editing, making it a better reflection of real-world usage.
Graphics performance also saw gains. In 3DMark’s Wild Life test, scores improved by around 5% to 7%, averaging roughly 6%.
Interestingly, despite no change in the GPU driver version, the OpenCL benchmark shows a score jump from the previous 3,063 to 4,061. That’s a nearly one-third improvement.
The possible reason for the gain
So how can a simple Android system update deliver such a performance boost?
According to AndroidPolice, the gains may come from deeper optimizations in Android 16, which introduces a more advanced and efficient memory garbage collection mechanism. This reduces CPU load during garbage collection, minimizes lag, and improves overall smoothness.
The good news is that these improvements aren’t limited to the new Pixel 10 series. Some users report that older models, such as the Pixel 8a, have also seen higher benchmark scores and better frame rates in 3DMark tests (via Reddit).
What remains unclear is whether these optimizations are exclusive to Google’s in-house Tensor processors. If the changes are more broadly applicable, other Android phones could also see meaningful performance gains through future updates.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Phones in 2026 are certain to have a price rise due to the increasing cost of memory modules. We are already seeing its effects with recent flagship launches like the iQOO 15, which saw a whopping 33% price increase over its predecessor in India.
Raising prices, however, won’t work in all markets. In a price-sensitive economy like India, it would be harder for brands to justify higher costs when the actual device might not bring any major improvements.
A new leak suggests manufacturers may instead look for savings elsewhere, by shipping phones with less RAM, that is.
16GB RAM might go extinct in 2026
According to a tipster on Naver, smartphones equipped with 16GB of RAM could nearly go extinct in 2026, except for some manufacturer-specific models.
The source also claims that 4GB RAM models may become far more common than they are today. More concerning, some phones could still end up costing more than current models despite being equipped with less memory.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra mockup (modified image of S25 Ultra)
The leak goes on to say that smartphones with 12GB of RAM could be reduced by 40% and will be replaced by 6GB/8GB models. Meanwhile, 8GB models could see a 50% reduction and be replaced by 4GB/6GB variants.
Much of this pressure comes from the growing demand for memory across multiple industries. This has created a supply crunch that consumers are now starting to feel. And it may not be limited to new and upcoming phones.
A recent report suggests that Samsung is also planning to hike prices for its existing Galaxy phones in India.
The memory crunch is also spilling over into the PC market. According to a TrendForce report, major PC brands like Dell and Lenovo have begun notifying customers about upcoming price hikes. Dell, in particular, is expected to raise PC prices by 15 to 20 percent.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Asus has introduced the RT-BE58 Go in China, a compact WiFi 7 portable router that was announced earlier this year. The device is priced at 899 yuan ($127) and supports power bank input for on-the-go use.
Asus RT-BE58 Go Specifications
The RT BE58 Go supports dual-band WiFi 7 (802.11be) and offers a combined wireless throughput of up to 3600 Mbps. It delivers up to 2882 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 688 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. Asus includes features like 4K QAM modulation and Multi-Link Operation to enhance speed and efficiency, especially in dense environments.
The router runs on a Broadcom 2.0GHz quad-core processor paired with 1GB DDR4 RAM and 256MB of flash storage. This hardware allows it to manage multiple devices and tasks simultaneously. It also includes two independent front-end modules (FEMs) to improve signal strength and stability.
Measuring 9.8 × 9.4 × 3.1 cm and weighing just 232 grams, the RT BE58 Go fits easily into a backpack or pouch. It includes foldable antennas and supports USB-C 18W PD input, allowing it to operate using a standard power bank. Asus says the router is ideal for outdoor work, hotel stays, road trips, and compact living spaces.
The router is equipped with multiple network access options. It includes a 2.5Gbps WAN port for wired broadband, USB tethering for 4G/5G smartphones or dongles, and a WISP mode that converts public WiFi networks into private secure hotspots. It also supports Asus AiMesh, which allows it to extend an existing mesh network using a single SSID.
For security and customization, the RT BE58 Go features AiProtection for real-time threat detection and malicious site blocking. It supports up to five guest SSIDs with branding support, as well as isolated child and IoT networks. VPN support is also built in for secure remote access.
Asus includes additional features such as smart scenario acceleration for streaming, gaming, and online meetings. The router also provides a dedicated USB-A port for mobile network tethering and a Gigabit LAN port for wired connections.
The Huawei MatePad 11.5 S 2026 with 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, and a detachable keyboard is priced at 479 euros. The PaperMatte Edition with the same configuration costs 529 euros. Both variants are available in Green and Space Gray.
The tablet features an 11.5-inch LCD display with a resolution of 2800 x 1840 pixels. It supports a 30Hz to 144Hz adaptive refresh rate and reaches up to 500 nits of brightness. Huawei claims an 87 percent screen to body ratio, a 1500:1 contrast ratio, and P3 wide colour gamut support. The PaperMatte Edition uses nano-level etching to reduce glare and surface sparkle by 50 percent and eliminate 99 percent of light interference, making it suitable for outdoor use. It carries TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light and Flicker-Free certifications, along with SGS Low Visual Fatigue 2.1 certification, which applies only to the PaperMatte model.
The MatePad measures 261.0 x 177.3 x 6.1 mm and weighs around 515 grams. It uses an all-metal body design. The tablet runs HarmonyOS 4.3 and comes with 12GB RAM, paired with either 256GB or 512GB storage.
Huawei Notes is pre-installed and supports AI equation recognition, AI handwriting enhancement, note replay, and a built-in resource centre. Creative users also get the GoPaint app with studio-style brushes. The tablet supports the M-Pencil Pro stylus and a detachable keyboard, both sold separately.
For cameras, the device includes a 13MP rear camera with autofocus and an 8MP front camera. It is powered by an 8800mAh battery with support for up to 40W wired fast charging.
Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NearLink, USB Type-C 3.0, and quad speakers tuned with Huawei Histen 9.0 audio.
Samsung’s Galaxy A-series phones could soon get a little more expensive in India. According to information shared by tipster Abhishek Yadav on X, Samsung is planning a price hike across its Galaxy A lineup, with the changes expected to take effect starting Monday.
As per the tip, Samsung India will increase the prices of most Galaxy A-series smartphones by ₹1,000. The Galaxy A56, however, is set to see a larger bump, with its price rising by ₹2,000.
Scoop: Starting Monday, Samsung India will increase prices of its Galaxy A-series smartphones by ₹1,000, while the Samsung Galaxy A56 will see a higher hike of ₹2,000.
It’s not surprising given the current market conditions
Samsung is expected to launch new Galaxy A-series phones next month, including the Galaxy A37 and Galaxy A57. Price adjustments just ahead of new launches aren’t unusual, but they typically make older models more affordable to make way for the new ones.
This time, though, it’s going in the opposite direction. And if you guessed it, yes, the primary reason behind the increase is rising memory costs.
The global semiconductor market is currently dealing with a memory shortage, largely driven by soaring demand for High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) and DDR5 DRAM used in AI data centers. As big tech companies are pouring money into AI infrastructure, smartphone makers are left competing for the same memory components at higher prices.
Sasmsung Galaxy A56 (left) and Galaxy A36 (right)_
We’ve already seen the impact of this trend at the high end of the market. Recent flagship launches such as the OnePlus 15, Vivo X300, and iQOO 15 arrived with noticeably higher price tags compared to their predecessors.
The iQOO 15, in particular, saw the maximum price rise of 33% over its predecessor. What’s changing now is that these cost pressures are starting to trickle down to midrange phones as well.
What’s more concerning is that this situation doesn’t appear to be temporary. Industry expectations suggest that memory prices are unlikely to cool down in 2026. If that happens, phones launching next year, be it budget, midrange, or premium, could all see further price increases.
In fact, executives from multiple smartphone brands like Realme and CMF have already acknowledged that price hikes are becoming unavoidable.
OnePlus has started rolling out the stable OxygenOS 16 update for the OnePlus Open in North America, nearly a month after the update first arrived in India. Indian users received the stable build in November, followed by a smaller update in early December, while other regions were left waiting.
The update is being released in stages, so it will not reach all devices at once. OnePlus has said the rollout will expand to more regions over the next few weeks. For North America, the update arrives with build number CPH2551_16.0.1.300(EX01).
OxygenOS 16 is largely focused on improving how the system feels in daily use. Animations are smoother and more consistent across the interface, with better timing when opening, closing, or switching between apps. Drag and drop actions on the Home screen, widgets, folders, and the Smart Sidebar feel more fluid, and scrolling now follows touch input more closely. Transitions in the status bar, notification shade, and Quick Settings are smoother and can be interrupted mid gesture. Common actions such as charging, fingerprint unlock, audio controls, and long press actions across system apps now use updated animations with softer lighting effects.
Under the hood, performance improvements come from the updated Trinity Engine. It adjusts system resources in real time to keep performance steady during gaming, video playback, and long camera sessions. Background activity is better controlled during heavy use, helping reduce power drain. Games benefit from more stable frame rates, while pop up windows and video calls are handled more efficiently. Apps open faster from the Home screen, photo albums load quicker, and cached video previews appear sooner in supported third party apps. Power Saving mode now scales performance based on the remaining battery level.
OnePlus has also expanded its AI features across OxygenOS 16. Mind Space now supports voice memory recording by pressing and holding the Plus Key, including landscape capture. A new Mind Assistant makes it easier to search saved content and manage collections. The Photos app has been redesigned with simpler navigation, improved album sorting, and expanded video editing tools such as trimming, transitions, speed controls, filters, and background music. Motion photos can be turned into slow motion clips or collages without losing HDR quality.
Notes now supports block based editing, richer text formatting, image view switching, and one link sharing for full notes. The Recorder app gets a new layout, AI noise cancellation, automatic context detection, and easy sharing of audio files, transcripts, and summaries. AI Translate has been refined for smoother real time use. AI Writer is now available system wide, allowing users to generate text, summaries, tables, and mind maps directly inside apps. AI VoiceScribe and Call Summary also offer better context detection and more export options.
Design changes include the new Flux Home screen with light field style icons, customizable grids, folders, widgets, and a cleaner layout without icon labels. AI powered Flux themes add motion wallpapers, adaptive icons, Always On Display updates, and real time customization. Core apps such as Clock, Calculator, and Compass have also been refreshed.
The update also improves connectivity with features like Touch to Share, better OnePlus Connect PC mirroring, cross device clipboard and search, improved in car Bluetooth, My Devices controls, stronger network sharing, and smoother data transfer from iOS. On the security side, OxygenOS 16 adds warnings for risky apps and new options to lock or hide apps directly from the Home screen.
If 2024 was a year of incremental updates, 2025 was the year the foldable form factor truly matured. We moved past the era of engineering curiosity and fragility into a time where these devices stood confidently alongside and often surpassed traditional flagship phones.
From Samsung’s meticulous refinement of its ecosystem to Huawei and Oppo pushing the physical limits of camera optics and hinge mechanics, this year’s lineup proved that foldables are no longer just experiments. They are now among the very best smartphones money can buy.
Here are our picks for the best foldable smartphones of 2025.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Samsung’s seventh-generation book-style foldable feels like the device the series was always destined to be. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 eliminates previous compromises, most notably in its weight; at just 215g, it is the lightest Fold yet, thanks to a new titanium-backed display and slimmer FlexHinge. The viewing experience has been significantly upgraded with an 8-inch main display featuring thinner bezels and the removal of the under-display camera, which has been swapped for a sharper 10MP sensor.
However, the headline feature is the camera system. For the first time, Samsung has integrated a 200MP flagship-grade sensor, allowing the Fold 7 to capture images that rival the best slab phones on the market. On the software front, the device acts as a premier mobile workstation. Running One UI 8 and Android 16, it leverages Galaxy AI for seamless multitasking, such as side-by-side editing and context-aware interactions with Gemini Live.
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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7
Samsung also elevated its Flip line this year, turning the clamshell form factor into a productivity tool. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 introduced the biggest and brightest cover screen ever seen on the series, a 4.1-inch FlexWindow that genuinely feels like a standalone phone. This expanded real estate allows users to reply to messages, run full apps, or interact with Gemini Live without ever needing to unfold the device.
Beyond the screen, the Flip 7 is a powerhouse in its own right. It is the first in the series to support Samsung DeX, allowing it to double as a desktop computer, and it packs a larger 4300mAh battery despite being slimmer than ever. This combination of portability and power ensures that the Flip 7 offers a premium flagship experience that goes far beyond simple nostalgia.
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Huawei Mate X7
While others focused on refinement, Huawei chose to experiment with aggressive hardware. The Mate X7 turned heads with its unique Yun Brocade Collector’s Edition design, but it is the camera system that truly sets it apart. It features a 50MP main sensor with a variable aperture, a 50MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom, and Huawei’s Red Maple color sensor, all of which combine to deliver stunning results in any lighting condition.
The display technology is equally impressive, with a foldable OLED screen that reaches a peak brightness of 2500 nits. Running on HarmonyOS, the device makes excellent use of this extra screen real estate with improved multitasking features and satellite messaging support. To top it off, the 5600mAh battery and titanium-reinforced body make the Mate X7 one of the most rugged and longest-lasting foldables released this year.
If Samsung and Huawei aimed for raw performance and camera versatility, the Find N5 focused on ergonomic perfection. This was arguably the most comfortable and polished foldable to hold in 2025, featuring a crease so shallow it is barely noticeable. This is made possible by an aerospace-grade titanium hinge that is both lighter and tougher than anything Oppo has shipped before.
The experience is just as premium on the inside. The 8.12-inch LTPO inner display supports stylus input, while the outer display has been upgraded for higher brightness. The Hasselblad-powered triple camera system, which includes a 50MP periscope lens and 6x optical zoom, holds its own in low-light and portrait scenarios. Furthermore, Oppo addressed battery anxiety by packing a massive 5600mAh silicon-carbon battery into the device, complete with fast wired and wireless charging, features its predecessor sorely lacked.
Huawei’s Pura X took the idea of a flip phone and flipped expectations. The device features a unique 6.3-inch inner display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, a rarity in foldables, while the 3.5-inch outer OLED is a perfect square, giving the phone a distinctive, mirror-like aesthetic. Both screens are top-tier, supporting high-frequency PWM dimming and full 120Hz LTPO refresh rates.
Unlike many flips that compromise on cameras, the Pura X is a serious imaging device. It houses a 50MP RYYB main camera, a 40MP ultra-wide, and a 3.5x telephoto lens, offering flagship versatility in a playful form factor. When you add in IPX8 water resistance, satellite communication support, and a 4720mAh battery with 66W wired charging, the Pura X stands out as a flip phone that feels like a true flagship.
Samsung’s first tri-fold smartphone is making headlines—but not just for its ambitious design. New repair pricing details suggest that fixing the Galaxy Z TriFold’s main display could cost nearly as much as buying a brand-new Galaxy S25 Ultra outright.
The Galaxy Z TriFold launched last month as Samsung’s boldest foldable yet, introducing a complex tri-folding screen that expands into a tablet-like canvas. Interest has been intense: the device reportedly sold out within minutes of becoming available, despite extremely limited stock. But that flexible inner screen comes with a downside if anything goes wrong.
According to a recent report, replacing the outer display will cost between KRW 137,000 and KRW 226,000 (roughly $90–$150), which is broadly in line with the Z Fold 7. The real shock comes from the inner tri-folding panel. Replacing that display could set owners back anywhere from KRW 1,657,500 to KRW 1,834,500 (about $1,120–$1,240), depending on the extent of the repair.
To put that into perspective, Samsung’s own Galaxy S25 Ultra—the company’s top-tier bar-style flagship—currently retails in South Korea for around KRW 1,673,100. In other words, repairing the TriFold’s main screen could cost as much as, or even more than, buying an entirely new S25 Ultra.
The report also notes that availability is extremely limited. Samsung is said to be stocking just 15 to 30 units per major store in South Korea, with only around 700 units available nationwide so far. Total sales are reportedly expected to reach between 2,500 and 5,000 units by early next year, suggesting this is very much a controlled, experimental release.
It’s worth stressing that these details come from an unverified blog report, so final pricing could change. Still, if accurate, they underline a familiar truth about foldables—especially bleeding-edge ones. The Galaxy Z TriFold may represent the future of smartphones, but repairing that future won’t come cheap.
As Holidays are coming, there are many deals out in the market. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 returns to post-Black Friday pricing on the compact 40mm model, ideal for everyday wear with its lightweight design available for only $249. That is $100 off from its standard pricing and a matching record low.
Samsung’s Newest smartwatch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8, comes with Wear OS 6 and One UI 8 Watch. It also features a wrist Gemini support and a long list of added functions. Galaxy Watch 8 comes with an ergonomic, versatile, & ultra-sleek (8.6mm slim-fit) design that’s built to last with Sapphire glass and Armor Aluminum. It features a Super AMOLED display with up to 3000 nits of brightness is easy to read even is bright light. The smartwatch also has features, such as a Running Coach, Antioxidant Index, Vascular Load, and more, making it Samsung’s most sophisticated wearable yet.
For this generation, Samsung has redesigned the strap system, so standard watch bands are no longer compatible. The updated bands are designed to help the watch hug your wrist more closely instead of lying flat. And users can’t agree more. Complaints flooded social media. Some of them were claiming the comfort of the band is far better than the flagship Galaxy Watch Ultra.
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Despite packing a larger battery, Samsung still rates the Galaxy Watch 8 for around two days of use on a full charge. However, the company notes these battery estimates are intentionally conservative. So many users can expect to squeeze out even longer runtimes in daily use.
The holiday season is around the corner, and this is the right time to get a valuable gift for your loved ones. If you are planning to gift a smartwatch or get one for yourself, then the Galaxy Watch 8 is a great choice. For more deals, just visit our dedicated deals section here on Gizmochina.
Just last month, the POCO F8 Pro was released as the brand’s latest flagship smartphone, while the highly anticipated POCO X8 Pro is set to debut soon. However, both the X8 and F8 series might be skipping out on a more affordable base variant. A recent rumor has hinted that Xiaomi might skip the POCO X8 and POCO F8 models.
Is Xiaomi Killing the POCO X8 and POCO F8?
According to a Xiaomi Timereport, the Chinese tech giant doesn’t have plans to launch the POCO standard F8 and POCO X8. In other words, the POCO F8 Pro and POCO F8 Ultra are the only models in the F8 lineup, while the POCO X8 Pro could be followed by a POCO X8 Pro Max model. To recall, the POCO F8 Pro and POCO X8 Ultra are rebranded smartphones of the Redmi K90 and Redmi K90 Pro Max.
POCO F8 Ultra
Similarly, the new POCO X8 Pro Max might replace the base X8, and is expected to be a rebadged version of the POCO X8 Pro Max. Meanwhile, the POCO X8 Pro is basically a renamed Redmi Turbo 5 Pro. Keep in mind that Xiaomi has yet to release the Redmi Turbo 5 lineup either, so the POCO versions are likely the global version, while the Redmi branded phones are China exclusive.
The report adds that the brand is making this move as it is working on expanding the affordable POCO M8 series. It is worth noting that this is still just speculation based on IMEI database registrations. So take this report with a pinch of salt for now, and stick around for more.
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Honor made a last-minute branding change to its upcoming midrange phone. What we were expecting to be the Honor GT 2 will now be the Honor Win smartphone, as revealed in a previous report.
Ahead of the launch, the first renders of the Honor Win have surfaced on the web, and they show a few features that immediately stand out.
Here’s your first look at Honor Win
The renders show the Honor Win in black, blue, and cyan color options. On the back, there’s a horizontal matrix-style camera module that houses three cameras. The layout stretches across the width of the phone and extends all the way to the edge, similar to how recent iPhones integrate their camera islands. The module also includes an LED flash and a visible WIN branding.
What’s more unusual or interesting is an active cooling fan that sits in a cutout that visually blends with the camera module. Active cooling fans are still rare outside gaming phones, so this hints that Honor will position the Win series as a performance-focused device rather than a typical flagship.
On the inside, leaked information suggests the Honor Win series could be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 mobile platform. The chip uses a 2+6 core architecture, with two super-large cores clocked as high as 4.6GHz.
Moreover, the phone is expected to feature a 6.83-inch flat display with 1.5K resolution, paired with a metal frame. Honor may also include 3D ultrasonic fingerprint recognition and high-level water resistance.
Camera-wise, the Honor Win is tipped to use a 50MP large-sensor main camera, while charging could go all the way up to 100W fast charging. Perhaps the wildest claim is that it could come with a 10,000mAh battery, which would be massive for a phone of this class.
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Another affordable Moto G-series smartphone has started to receive the Android 16 update. I’m referring to the Moto G67 Power, which is now receiving its first major Android update.
The Android 16 upgrade for the Moto G67 Power is tagged with the firmware version W1VN36H.60-30 and has a download size of 1.33GB, as noted by Ytechb. If the update notification hasn’t arrived yet, navigate to Settings > System updates > Check for updates to manually check for available updates.
While it is a major upgrade, you won’t notice many visual changes. However, it does bring many improvements to enhance the software experience.
After upgrading to Android 16, Motorola users should see a new Notification cooldown on their devices. This prevents users from getting annoyed when an app sends too many notifications in a short time. It basically lowers the volume of such incoming notifications. The upgrade also introduces a Flash notification feature within the Settings app, which can be configured to flash the camera or screen upon receiving calls and notifications.
The Settings app in Android 16 also introduces Custom modes, allowing users to create profiles for different activities. Additionally, the update brings Advanced protection, a suite of security features designed to protect you from various vulnerabilities and security issues. Improvements have also been made to compatibility with Bluetooth LE audio devices, Wi-Fi connection, and device stability.
No more OS upgrades beyond Android 16
While it’s good to see the Moto G67 Power getting a major upgrade just a month after its launch, it’s also disappointing that it wasn’t released with Android 16. The latest Android OS was released by Google back in June, but Motorola shipped the G67 Power with a year-old OS, that too in November, when some brands are moving towards wrapping up their Android 16 rollout.
Also, Motorola promises just one major upgrade for the Moto G67 Power. This means the device won’t receive Android OS updates beyond Android 16. However, it will continue to receive security patch updates for three years.
You can visit the Android 16 section on Gizmochina regularly to stay up-to-date with the latest news and developments. Or, if you prefer instant updates, don’t forget to join our Telegram channel.
Lenovo has just launched a high end new gaming laptop that is inspired by a popular gaming franchise. The company’s Legion Y9000P is getting a new Diablo IV makeover, bringing cutting edge hardware and a design that is made for fans of the iconic action RPG series. So let’s check it out.
Lenovo x Diablo IV Legion Y9000P: What makes it special?
What sets the new gaming laptop apart isn’t its specs and features, but the unique design. The powerful notebook has an aesthetic drawn from Diablo IV. It isn’t a simple recolor either, you get a customized Legion brand logo on the back along with a custom Lilith textured. Complimenting this is a special theme and wallpaper on the software and a custom backlit keyboard.
Lenovo Legion Y9000P Diablo IV Edition Gaming Laptop
Talking about the specs, the Legion Y9000P Diablo IV Edition features Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU and the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 GPU. While this is a mobile GPU, it has a TDP of 175W. Meaning, you get near desktop level performance out of this gaming laptop. You also get 16GB of GDDR7 memory from this GPU. There is even a lower RTX 5070 Ti model.
You also get 32GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage. On the front, you get a 16-inch OLED display with a 2560 x 1600p resolution and a 240Hz refresh rate. Owing to its hefty hardware, the new Lenovo Legion Y9000P Diablo IV gaming laptop starts from 16,999 Yuan (roughly 2,410 US Dollars) for the RTX 5070 Ti variant, while the RTX 5080 option costs 21,999 Yuan (roughly 3,120 US Dollars).
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Xiaomi has a new update for its wearable users in China. The company has confirmed that it is the first brand to integrate Alipay’s “Tap to Pay” feature into its smart bands, enabling easier contactless payments.
The update was shared by Zhang Lei, Vice President of Xiaomi Group’s Mobile Phone Division and General Manager of its Wearable Devices Division. According to Zhang, Xiaomi is currently the only manufacturer supporting this feature in the band category.
Xiaomi Smart Band 10 Glimmer Edition
Alipay’s Tap to Pay works much like other contactless payment systems: users can tap their smartwatch or band at a supported terminal to pay, without pulling out a phone.
However, Zhang says that enabling this feature wasn’t as simple as it might seem. According to him, each product has to go through its own research and development process, testing, and approvals from multiple parties. As a result, different devices receive support at different times.
Xiaomi wearables that support Alipay Tap to Pay
Some Xiaomi wearables already support Tap & Pay. The list includes the REDMI Watch 6, the Xiaomi Band 9 NFC / Ceramic version, and Xiaomi Band 10, including the NFC model, Ceramic version, and the Shining Gold Special Edition. For users of these devices, the feature is already live.
Other products are still in what Xiaomi calls “gray-scale” pilot testing, meaning the feature is being rolled out gradually to a limited group of users. The Xiaomi Watch S4 lineup, including the standard version, eSIM version, 41mm model, and the 15th Anniversary Edition, is currently in this testing phase. The Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport is also included. Xiaomi says full support for Alipay Tap & Go on these watches is expected to arrive in December.
Looking further ahead, Xiaomi has outlined plans for additional devices. Both the standard and eSIM versions of the REDMI Watch 5 will begin gray-scale rollout in December. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi Mi Band 9 Pro is scheduled to enter gray-scale testing much later, starting in February 2026.
HONOR is expanding the cross-device features of MagicOS, and iPhone notification sharing is now rolling out to users. The feature first appeared in the November MagicOS 10 update, which also added Face Unlock support for the Dynamic Capsule and video lock screen wallpapers.
MagicOS Product Director Kaopu Guige confirmed that iPhone notification sharing is already supported on several HONOR phones and tablets. Compatible devices include the Magic V5, V3, and Vs3 series, the Magic 8, 7, 6, and 5 series, and the HONOR 500, 400, and 300 series. It is also available on the HONOR GT, GT Pro, and MagicPad 3. More models will receive support through future system updates.
The feature is designed to sync notifications across devices. Once paired, users can view iPhone system alerts and app notifications directly on their HONOR device. This helps users who carry both devices stay updated without switching screens all the time. HONOR says the goal is to keep the experience stable and useful in daily use.
To use the feature, HONOR devices must be running MagicOS 10 or later, and the iPhone must be updated to iOS 15.6 or above. The setup process is simple. Users install the HONOR Connect app on the iPhone, create a QR code inside the app, and scan it with the Smart Connectivity option on the HONOR device. After pairing, users can choose which notifications they want to sync.
Early user feedback says the feature works smoothly, with alerts coming in on time and without changing how notifications behave on either device. HONOR says it will continue improving the feature based on user feedback and plans to add more cross-device functions to make MagicOS work better with other platforms.
Samsung is positioning the Exynos 2600 as more than the main chipset for its next flagship phones. The chip also acts as Samsung’s first large-scale showcase of its 2nm process, which the company hopes will help bring major customers back to its foundry business. After struggling to win meaningful 3nm orders, Samsung is relying on the Exynos 2600 to prove that its new node can deliver stable performance and better efficiency.
A new report from South Korea says Samsung has introduced a cooling method for the Exynos 2600 that is drawing interest from Apple and Qualcomm. Both companies have relied on TSMC for their recent mobile and desktop chips, largely because Samsung’s previous flagship chipsets faced consistent thermal and stability issues. Samsung now claims it has addressed those concerns with a packaging method called Heat Path Block technology.
The Heat Path Block design uses a copper heatsink placed directly on top of the mobile AP. To enable this layout, Samsung moved the DRAM to the side of the processor instead of stacking it above the die. This gives the heatsink direct contact with the main chip, allowing heat to move out of the package more quickly. According to the report, internal testing shows up to a 30 percent improvement in thermals compared to the previous Exynos generation.
Samsung missed most of the 3nm demand because its early process did not inspire confidence among top-tier customers. The company is now more cautious with its 2nm rollout but believes this node has a better chance at competing with TSMC. Samsung expects the Exynos 2600 to act as the first real demonstration of what its 2nm line can achieve in a consumer device.
If the Exynos 2600 delivers the thermal and performance gains that Samsung is targeting, it could help the company rebuild trust with major chip designers. That outcome would be important for Samsung as it looks to secure future 2nm orders and re-establish itself as a competitive alternative to TSMC in advanced chip manufacturing.
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ASUS has just teased the arrival of a new dual display laptop. The Zenbook Duo series is getting a new 2026 edition with a bunch of upgrades across the board, which could make it a more compelling option for those looking for a notebook with a larger screen real estate. So let’s check it out.
ASUS Zenbook Duo 2026: All the new upgrades
The Zenbook Duo OLED was the last model in the lineup. But now, we are finally getting a sequel, and it appears that ASUS has plans for a bunch of upgrades. The brand has just shared a new video trailer on X (formerly Twitter) which showcases the design elements and some of the key upgrades. ASUS showcases a stronger hinge that houses the two displays. These screens likely offer a similar 14-inch size but might get thinner bezels.
ASUS Zenbook Duo 2026
With the newer Zenbook Duo 2026 model, ASUS has also shifted to a dual cell battery setup, which could bring notable upgrades in terms of total battery life. To recall, the predecessor was powered by a sizeable 75Wh battery. The last generation of ASUS Zenbook Duo packed Intel’s Arrow Lake architecture, packing the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor.
So we might also be getting the Panther Lake lineup which is set to debut early next year. Looking at the video trailer, the Taiwanese tech giant plans on unveiling the Zenbook Duo 2026 model during the CES 2026 event on 6th January 2026. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more.
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Vivo’s OriginOS 6 update has been rolling out for various smartphone models over the last few weeks. Just recently, the Vivo X300 series started receiving the global version of this update. Now, iQOO’s last year flagship, the iQOO 13, has finally received the major software upgrade as well. So here are all the details.
iQOO 13 receives OriginOS 6: What you should know
The Chinese brand just started rolling out OriginOS 6 for the iQOO 13. This is a massive update that carries a hefty download size of 4.05GB. It brings the Android 16 OS along with various other additions and upgrades. To improve the overall user experience, OriginOS 6 packs the new Origin Smooth Engine to help boost app launch speeds, stabilize frame rates, and much more. UI has also been enhanced with smoother system animations and improved system resource management.
iQOO 13
Apart from just visual upgrades, OriginOS 6 also made improvements to the responsiveness and added more personalization as well. The cleaner animations are coupled with new home screen and lock customization options, adaptive app folders, and even new AI features. There are a bunch of new AI powered tools like Gemini Live, Retouch Suite, and even image editing tools. Other notable features include Origin Island (inspired by Apple’s Dynamic Island), performance optimizations, and more subtle UI tweaks.
At the moment, iQOO is rolling out the iQOO 13 update in a staggered manner. So only a few units are receiving the OriginOS 6 update. This makes sense since it allows the company to catch any major software bugs, vulnerabilities, or other issues. The majority of iQOO 13 owners are expected to get the update soon after.
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Google thinks the future of the web isn’t just about making it agentic; it’s also about letting your browser build things for you. That idea is now real with “Disco”, the company’s experimental new AI-powered browser that vibe-codes an app based on what you are doing online. This feature of Disco is called “GenTab,” and is powered by Gemini 3.
As you might’ve guessed, GenTab takes your tab and chat history into consideration. It analyzes your tabs, your searches, and your chat prompts to generate tools that fit what you’re doing.
Google showed off a few examples, and they’re honestly pretty impressive. If you’re researching science topics like Entropy, Disco might spin up an “Entropy Explainer” app. The official video also shows a vibe-coded bunk bed comparison site and a memory match brain game.
Google’s new AI browsers vibe codes an app based on your tabs
GenTabs sit alongside regular tabs, but they get their own Gemini-like icon instead of a favicon. One demo showed a travel planner with calendars, route maps, crowd-level predictions, and quick-action buttons like “Book Nearby Stays.” Tap anything inside that app, and the GenTab reshapes itself in real time.
Disco greets you with a homepage containing a chatbox rather than the usual address bar. That’s where the chat history comes from, although you can also paste a URL in it.
If you end up conversing, Google will first suggest you relevant webpages, and after a few conversations, it pops up a prompt to create a GenTab based on what you’re searching.
Google Disco HomePageDisco browser with Create GenTab prompt based on chat history
AI is definitely changing the way we search and consume content. And it won’t surprise me that features like GenTabs are the next evolution of it.
You don’t need to write code; you just describe what you need, refine it in plain language, and the browser does the heavy lifting. Google says Disco is meant to help people “learn faster” and experiment with what browsing could become. And yes, the company admits the best concepts from Disco might eventually show up in Chrome.
For now, Disco is an early experiment. Google Labs has opened a waitlist, and the first version is rolling out only on macOS.
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Motorola is gearing up to unveil its next gen flagship smartphone soon. But while rumors predicted that the Edge 70 Ultra is on its way, a fresh leak claims otherwise. The next premium phone from the brand could be dubbed the Motorola Signature. So here’s what we know.
Motorola Signature: New flagship vision from Moto?
The news of Motorola’s shift in flagship branding arrives from known tipster Evan Blass. In response to a recent tweet related to the alleged Edge 70 Ultra renders leak, he claimed that the company’s next flagship carries the codename Urus and will be the first model in the new Motorola Signature lineup. Although, it is unclear if the branding is dedicated to a certain region or will be uniform across the globe.
Motorola Edge 70 Ultra leaked renders
Motorola devices from the Edge and Razr lineup usually have a slightly different names than their global counterparts. Furthermore, another leak from a Weibo tipster confirmed some of the high end specs of this upcoming smartphone. The Motorola Signature will reportedly sport a tall 6.7-inch flat OLED with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.
Under the hood, it might be equipped with the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC. For photography, the Motorola Signature is expected to feature a 50MP triple camera setup that likely consists of a main, ultra wide, and periscope telephoto shooter. Lastly, three of the color options were also revealed, including black, green, and bronze. Some of these specs are similar to the Edge 50 Ultra, which was the last Ultra model from the brand. But unfortunately, this is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more.
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Sony’s BRAVIA 2M2 series 55-inch 4K Ultra HD Smart Google TV K-55S25BM2 comes under the mid-premium segment aimed at users who want cinematic visuals, a smooth Google TV experience, and reliable brand backing without jumping to flagship OLED pricing. It combines Sony’s image processing with a modern smart TV platform, making it suitable for mixed usage like OTT streaming, sports, and console gaming.
Specs and Pricing
The pricing for the base model with a 55-inch screen starts at around ₹57,990, with additional discounts of up to ₹7,000 off with HDFC CC No Cost EMI, and on top, of that, apply a ₹1,500 off Coupon, which will bring the effective pricing to ₹49,490.
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Sony’s BRAVIA 2M2 series is packed with premium specs. It comes with a 60 Hz display with 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) resolution. The TV combines a sharp 4K LED panel with the processor X1, Live Colour, 4K X-Reality PRO, MotionFlow XR 100 and HDR10/HLG support to deliver detailed, vibrant, smooth, and high dynamic range visuals ideal for movies, sports, and streaming. The device has 4 HDMI ports and 2 USB ports. And the best thing is that it supports gaming consoles too. It supports 20W Dolby Atmos with DTS Digital Surround.
The TV has all the essential smart kits in it. Like Google TV, Watchlist, Google Assistant, Google Cast, and Google Menu. And on top it also supports Apple AirPlay 2, Apple HomeKit, and Alexa. Sony provides a one-year warranty from the date of purchase.
Currently, the product is running at its lowest price. If you don’t want to miss this. Sony’s BRAVIA 2M2 series 55-inch 4K Ultra HD Smart Google TV is now available at a great deal.
The seventh round of the Realme UI 7.0 Early Access program has gone live, bringing the latest features and upgrades to six more Realme smartphones ahead of the stable rollout. The latest beta round includes devices like the Realme 13 5G, Realme 12x 5G, Narzo 70x 5G, Narzo N65 5G, Realme C65 5G, and Realme C63 5G.
The sixth wave of Realme UI 7.0 beta access is currently live in India, with no official confirmation regarding its expansion to other regions. If you have one of these eligible Realme devices and live in India, you can sign up for the beta program to access the latest features and upgrades without waiting.
How to get the Realme UI 7.0 beta update?
The Realme UI 7.0 Early Access program is already live for all six Realme phones. You can participate in the program right now, but note that Realme is only accepting a maximum of 200 applications for each of these models. Therefore, you must hurry to secure a slot, as they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Step 1: Ensure that your device has the required firmware version
To be eligible for the beta access, your Realme device must be running on the required firmware version:
Realme 13 5G: RMX3951_15.0.0.1610
Realme 12x 5G: RMX3998_15.0.0.1610
Realme Narzo 70x 5G: RMX3998_15.0.0.1610
Realme Narzo N65 5G: RMX3997_15.0.0.1610
Realme C65 5G: RMX3997_15.0.0.1610
Realme C63 5G: RMX3950_15.0.0.1610
You can verify the software version by navigating to Settings > System & Updates > Software Update. Now that we have completed this step, let’s proceed to the beta registration part.
Step 2: Sign up for the Realme UI 7.0 Early Access program
You must enable the developer settings first. If you haven’t already, go to Settings > About device > Version > Version Number and tap the version number seven times in quick succession. This should enable developer settings.
Now, you’re ready to sign up for the beta program. Follow these steps in the same order:
Open the Settings app on your Realme phone.
Go to System & update and tap Software update.
Tap the three dots icon in the top-right corner and choose Beta program.
Tap the Early Access option and click Apply now on the next screen.
Accept terms and conditions and tap Submit.
After submitting the application, you will soon receive the Realme UI 7.0 beta update via OTA. To manually check for updates, go to Settings > System & update > Software update.
The beta rollout has already begun for these Realme devices included in the 7th wave of beta access, so the wait should not be long. Since this is a major upgrade with a hefty download size, the brand recommends keeping at least 15GB of free storage and a battery level above 60% for a smoother installation.
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Redmi’s popular Note series of mid range smartphones is arriving in India soon. Xiaomi recently unveiled the Redmi Note 15 5G, Note 15 Pro 5G, Note 15 Pro+ 5G, Note 15 4G, and Note 15 Pro 4G in the global market. The brand just confirmed the launch of the Redmi Note 15 5G in India, and a fresh teaser has even revealed its camera and battery details. So lets check it out.
Redmi Note 15 5G teased: What to expect?
Xiaomi plans to release the Redmi Note 15 5G in the Indian market on 6th January 2026. But ahead of the official release, the device had some of its key specs revealed. The Chinese tech giant confirmed the new 108 MasterPixel camera in the previous teaser, which was showcased again. Unlike the 50MP camera in the Chinese variant, the global version has a higher resolution 108MP shooter.
Redmi Note 15 5G
The sensor will offer OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), 4K video recording, and it was even teased as a multifocal portrait legend. Apart from this, Xiaomi also claimed that the smartphone will bring a long battery life thanks to its 5,520mAh battery pack, which promises up to 1.6 days of usage and up to 5 years of total battery lifespan. The Redmi Note 15 5G supports 45W wired fast charging.
This appears quite similar to the specs of the Note 15 5G model that debuted in the European market. To recall, this model features Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 SoC under the hood, sports a tall 6.77-inch AMOLED display with an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance.
The Galaxy S26 series is at the centre of a developing supply situation that has drawn attention across the industry. A report from South Korea has revealed that Samsung is preparing for high-level discussions with Micron as it aims to secure stable mobile DRAM for its upcoming flagship. With the smartphone’s launch window nearing, rising memory prices and unsettled contracts have triggered a series of urgent developments that set the tone for what follows.
Samsung seeks emergency talks at CES 2026
TM Roh
TM Roh, who heads Samsung’s DX division, is reportedly scheduled to meet Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra on the opening day of CES 2026 in Las Vegas. Such meetings are rarely arranged during the event, but the growing strain on LPDDR5X supply appears to have made this one unavoidable.
Industry insiders say the price surge has been unusually steep. LPDDR5X 12GB modules that were trading at around 30 dollars earlier this year have reportedly jumped to nearly 70 dollars by late November, creating uncertainty in Samsung’s negotiations with both its DS division and Micro. The two suppliers have yet to finalize terms for the Galaxy S26, leaving the smartphone unit under pressure as it approaches mass production deadlines.
Several Korean reports note that memory manufacturers prefer quarterly supply agreements during price upswings rather than longer commitments. This has added another layer of difficulty for Samsung’s mobile division, which is already dealing with increased expenditure on application processors. The situation has elevated Micron’s importance in Samsung’s flagship portfolio, especially after the company supplied a large share of mobile DRAM for the Galaxy S25 series.
New DRAM technologies and internal challenges
Samsung’s DS unit is simultaneously advancing its next-generation LPDDR6 technology, expected to offer higher bandwidth and improved efficiency. Early signs suggest the company may showcase it at CES 2026, although commercial deployment could arrive later. Meanwhile, internal adoption of the Exynos 2600 remains limited, further tightening the mobile division’s budget as it negotiates memory procurement.
With the Galaxy S26 set to debut in early 2026, the outcome of TM Roh’s CES meeting may influence how smoothly Samsung can secure DRAM supply for its next flagship. While the company has declined to comment on its memory plans, the urgency around negotiations underscores the broader industry pressure caused by rising demand and limited production capacity.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
So yes, HUAWEI did it too. The Mate Pro+ series has now been renamed as Pro Max this year. Xiaomi taught us through its own sales numbers that, as long as the product is powerful enough, the name doesn’t matter. In fact, HUAWEI probably thinks the same way, which is why the Mate 80 Pro Max has become the new peak of HUAWEI smartphones. Also, this is the most impressive Pro Max I’ve ever seen. With a major redesign and a launch price lower than last year’s Mate 70 Pro+, there’s no reason the Mate 80 Pro Max would be anything less than great.
Design & Features
Let me answer the question you’re most curious about. No, this ring on the back doesn’t support magnetic accessories. Why the Mate 80 Pro Max has such a ring here it’s simply to prevent the functions of the wireless charging coil from being blocked by its metal back cover.
Compared to the Mate 70 series, the frames of the Mate 80 series have changed from round to flat. The benefit is that it looks slimmer. As for the downside, your hand will tell you.
The Mate 80 Pro Max is a phone with many holes. The three holes on the screen are nothing new; basically, the 3D facial recognition module and the front camera.
There are also five holes along the frame, including the microphone, speaker port, and SIM card slot—most of them are familiar to us. But what is this hole on the side for? HUAWEI told us that this is also one of the speakers. The difference is that it’s mainly used to cancel out the sound waves leaking during calls, to protect your privacy during phone calls.
Many of HUAWEI’s target users are outdoor explorers, so HUAWEI also designed new features for them. The Mate 80 Pro Max adds a new Expedition mode, which turns a modern smartphone into a professional outdoor tool. In addition to satellite communication and emergency messaging, it also extends battery life a lot. The map has also been optimized, automatically recording your path and allowing you to retrace your route anytime.
With IP68 and IP69 ratings, and the second-generation Kunlun Glass, treating the Mate 80 Pro Max as an ultimate rugged phone is absolutely justified.
Display
If you have the budget to buy the Mate 80 Pro Max or RS Ultimate version, your display will be upgraded from regular OLED to a Tandem one. Tandem OLED is not a new technology. The iPad Pro and HUAWEI Mate 70 RS Ultimate both use Tandem OLED.
The benefits of this panel are obvious—higher brightness, wider color gamut, and lower power consumption. Higher resolution may not be noticeable for everyone, but higher brightness is something you will definitely feel. I placed it next to several flagship phones we own, and at a glance, you can see how high the Mate 80 Pro Max’s brightness is.
Not only is it easier to read under sunlight, but it also excels at HDR content. The blinding highlights are hard to capture in video. Trust me, if you get a chance to see the Mate 80 Pro Max’s display in a store, you’ll definitely feel tempted to buy it.
The only downside of Tandem OLED is expense; however, the Mate 80 Pro Max is probably the cheapest Tandem OLED phone at launch right now. So this should be one of the strongest reasons for you to buy this phone.
Performance & Battery
The Mate 80 Pro Max uses the latest and most powerful Kirin 9030 Pro platform. Compared to the Kirin 9020, the 9030 Pro has one extra P-core, and both CPU and GPU frequencies have been improved. It’s worth noting that the four phones in the Mate 80 series have three different Kirin processor models. If you want the highest performance from a HUAWEI phone, you need to get the 16GB RAM Pro version at least.
Since the benchmarks we commonly use are all blacklisted by HUAWEI, we won’t be running benchmarks this time—the scores can’t prove the strength of a chipset anyway. So let’s jump straight to gaming performance.
Fortunately, miHoYo developed a HarmonyOS-exclusive version of Genshin Impact. This makes it one of the very few games that can fully unleash the Kirin 9030 Pro’s performance. And when you enable high-performance mode, you can disable frame interpolation.
HUAWEI also designed a new performance monitoring tool for all HarmonyOS phones: HiSmartPerf. With this, we can finally capture accurate frame rate curves from HarmonyOSI devices.
Wow, look at this perfectly straight frame rate graph—can you believe this is from a HUAWEI phone? This is the native frame rate without interpolation. I can’t believe that. It’s beautiful. Thanks to the full metal back cover, heat is evenly distributed. From this, the gaming experience seems comparable to other Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 phones.
Well, the Kirin 9030 Pro has indeed made great progress, but there is a cost—its power consumption still has room to improve. And with the battery capacity only increased by 300mAh compared to the previous generation—less than we expected—so battery life in gaming does indeed fall behind. Fortunately, under light workloads, it’s power-efficient enough to rival phones with 7000mAh batteries if you don’t play games.
Wired charging supports 100W, and wireless charging goes up to 80W. It only takes 50 minutes to fully charge in our tests. Overall, I think battery and charging performance are still satisfying.
Camera
All four camera sensors on the Mate 80 Pro Max come from SmartSens Technology. Honestly, I’m very happy with all four of them. The ultra-wide has a sufficiently wide field of view, and 2 telephoto lenses let me capture subjects far away.
There are two things to note: First, the ultra-wide camera is not compromised like in many other flagships. It uses the same sensor as the two telephotos, meaning image quality at every focal length remains excellent. Secondly, every sensor uses an RYYB filter, increasing light intake and greatly improving low-light performance. And the color shift caused by RYYB can be corrected with the second-generation color temperature sensor. Combined with the variable aperture on the main camera and SmartSens’s new HDR technology, this is the most feature-rich and balanced camera system I’ve seen. Whether it’s dynamic range, white balance, or focal coverage, I can’t find any faults.
Some phones try to use a 200MP mid-telephoto camera, rely on in-sensor zoom to cover longer focal lengths. Although in most cases, the cropped photos look similar to the Mate 80 Pro Max’s 6.2x optical zoom, this approach has two major drawbacks you might not know: One, their telephoto cameras cannot shoot macro photos. The Mate 80 Pro Max’s 4x telephoto has a minimum focusing distance of 5cm—the best macro performance we’ve ever seen on any phone, period.
Two, if you need to shoot video using the telephoto lens, the quality difference becomes huge. So, between a single large-sensor telephoto and two smaller-sensor telephotos that cover longer ranges, I’ll always choose the latter.
Speaking of video recording, the Mate 80 Pro Max has improved a lot as well. Shaking caused by stabilization has been reduced significantly. The ultra-wide sensor is also larger than that of other flagships, performing better than expected in low light.
The front camera is also from SmartSens, but with a smaller sensor. Selfie quality is average.
Conclusion
After reviewing this phone, I realized I like it more than the time I bought it. Although it looks more ordinary now, and its performance can’t compete with other Pro Max devices, HarmonyOS 6 is very smooth, and battery life is excellent if you don’t play games. The camera system is my favorite—full-range quad cameras—and it also has the brightest display I’ve ever seen.
Add long-held advantages like signals and Face ID, and you’ll understand why HUAWEI phones remain popular. Oh, and it’s also cheaper now, so for longtime HUAWEI users, this is the perfect time to upgrade.
The stable rollout of Nothing OS 4.0 began last month, starting with the Nothing Phone 3, and it quickly expanded to the Phone 2, Phone 2a, Phone 2a Plus, Phone 3a, and Phone 3a Pro towards the end of November. However, many users are still waiting for their turn to receive the Android 16 update.
In the midst of users reporting delays in the rollout, a screenshot of a chat with Nothing’s support team surfaced on Reddit, leading to further disappointment among users awaiting the update. The screenshot (see it on Reddit) suggested that the Nothing OS 4.0 rollout has been temporarily suspended due to critical bugs requiring an urgent fix.
Finally, we now have an official update from Nothing’s team on the matter (via Android Authority). Here’s the official statement:
We use a phased rollout for every major software update so we can identify potential optimisations for users, these are often related to third-party apps.
Such optimisations were identified as part of the Nothing Phone (2a) Series and were rolled out on 1 December 2025. The rollout across all devices is progressing as planned and continues gradually.
If users have questions or feedback on Nothing OS 4.0, we invite them to reach out to our Customer Service team directly.”
So, Nothing has completely denied any claims regarding the rollout suspension. Instead, the company says the rollout is progressing as planned. If you’re among those waiting for the Nothing OS 4.0 update, note that the brand employs a phased rollout for every major upgrade, which means it may take some time for the update to reach all users. You can manually check for updates by navigating to Settings > System > System updates.
We’ll continue to post fresh updates about Nothing OS 4.0 in the Nothing section. If you prefer your news instant and on the go, hop into our Telegram channel for instant notification about the latest software updates and all the biggest tech headlines.
Vivo is likely to launch the V70 series phones in early 2026. So far, we have heard about two phones of the lineup: the Vivo V70 and V70 Lite. Both have appeared in at least one certification platform to confirm their existence.
A new leak suggests that these phones will be joined by another two devices called the Vivo V70 Elite and Vivo V70 FE.
No Vivo V70e or V70 Lite 4G
Words for this come from tipster Paras Guglani on X, who claims that the 2026 Vivo V70 lineup will not include any Pro or Pro Plus models. Not much is surprising, as the predecessor lineup didn’t have them either. What’s interesting, however, is the addition of Elite and FE models, with no mention of a V70e.
For comparison, the V60 series was quite different, comprising the V60 itself, the V60 Lite 5G, the V60 Lite 4G, and the V60e.
Vivo S50
Another detail from the leak is that all V70 phones are expected to have 5G connectivity. Vivo traditionally offered Lite models in multiple connectivity options to appeal to different markets, but that may no longer be the case.
Moreover, the tipster says that not all phones will launch in the same market. The standard Vivo V70 seems destined for India, while the Lite and Elite models might launch globally. The V70 FE, meanwhile, could see a release in India, though that’s less certain.
What we know
There’s not much detail available on any V70 phone. However, rumors suggest the standard V70 could be a rebrand of Vivo S50 from China. Given that, it might feature a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.
The back will include a triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, an ultra-wide, and a 50MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. A 50MP selfie camera is reportedly on board as well.
Rounding out the list are a 6,500mAh battery, 90W wired charging, and an IP69 rating.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
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