Quarterback Philip Rivers is back on the field and off the list of modern-era players under consideration to be part of the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026.
Hall of Fame spokesman Rich Desrosiers confirmed Rivers' status on Monday, Dec. 15:
Desrosiers said "the clock resets from whenever he last plays," which means Rivers could regain eligibility, if he doesn't play next season, for the Class of 2031.
He was signed because of an injury to starter Anthony Richardson. Richardson is cleared to play their next game, but Colts head coach Shane Steichen said Rivers will start it against the 49ers on "Monday Night Football" on Dec. 22.
Rivers recently was named one of 26 modern-era finalists for the Class of 2026. He made that cut along with a group of first-year-eligible players including Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, Frank Gore and Jason Witten. Each last played in the 2020 season.
The semifinalist list will be cut to 15 finalists later this month.
The Canton Repository sports department can be contacted via email at sports@cantonrep.com.
A new HMD smartphone has surfaced on Geekbench, offering an early look at what appears to be the HMD Pulse 2 Pro. The device shows up under the codename “Pearl” and reveals several key hardware details.
The Geekbench listing identifies the motherboard as “ums9230_6h10.” At first glance, this points toward Unisoc’s T606 or T615 platforms, but the CPU configuration tells a different story. The chip features two performance cores clocked at 1.82GHz and six efficiency cores running at 1.61GHz, which doesn’t match the T606 series, where all cores operate at the same frequency.
Instead, the setup closely aligns with the Unisoc T7250. That lines up with an earlier leak for the Pulse 2 Pro. Those listings mentioned a T615 chip, but that now appears to be a mislabeling, possibly due to overlapping internal codenames.
The Geekbench listing further reveals 4GB of RAM and shows the phone running Android 15. If Android 16 introduces higher minimum RAM requirements, the Pulse 2 Pro may need to rely on Android Go for long-term software support.
According to a recent report, more phones with just 4GB of RAM could launch next year as memory prices continue to rise. The 2024 Pulse Pro was offered in 4GB, 6GB, and 8GB variants, so it remains to be seen whether the Pulse 2 Pro will still get an 8GB option, especially given its entry-level positioning.
Overall, the benchmark points to a familiar formula for HMD’s budget lineup. The Pulse 2 Pro appears to focus on basic functionality rather than raw performance.
HMD hasn’t confirmed the device yet, but with benchmark listings and retailer leaks now stacking up, an official announcement may not be far off.
Honor is getting ready to expand the Magic 8 series beyond its limited global launch in Malaysia and the GCC region. The next stop is Europe, and a new leak has now revealed the expected pricing of the Honor Magic 8 Pro in the region.
According to tipster RODENT950 on X, the Honor Magic 8 Pro will be priced between €1,199 and €1,299 in European markets. It is not clear whether this price range reflects different storage variants or regional price differences. In Malaysia, the phone is available in two configurations: 12GB RAM with 512GB storage and 16GB RAM with 1TB storage. If the leak is accurate, the Magic 8 Pro will enter the European market with a minimum price of €1,199.
The global version of the Honor Magic 8 Pro comes with a 7,100mAh battery. It supports 100W wired fast charging and 80W wireless charging. In comparison, the China-only model features a slightly larger 7,200mAh battery and faster 120W wired charging, while wireless charging remains the same at 80W. Apart from these differences, both variants share the same specifications.
The device runs MagicOS 10 based on Android 16. It features a 6.71 inch LTPO OLED display with a 1.5K resolution of 1,256 x 2,808 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. Honor claims the display can reach up to 6,000 nits of peak HDR brightness. The phone is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor paired with an Adreno 840 GPU. It is available with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of internal storage.
The rear camera setup includes a 200 megapixel 1/1.4 inch sensor with 3.7x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom. It also features a 50 megapixel 1/1.3 inch sensor with CIPA 5.5 stabilization and a 50 megapixel ultra wide camera. On the front, the phone has a 50 megapixel selfie camera along with a 3D depth sensor.
The Honor Magic 8 Pro carries IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings for dust and water resistance. It uses an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and includes sensors such as an accelerometer, gravity sensor, infrared sensor, gyroscope, compass, ambient light sensor, and proximity sensor. The phone measures 161.15 x 75 x 8.32mm and weighs 219g.
Huawei’s Mate 80 series has started strong in China, crossing an estimated 750,000 units shipped in about two weeks after launch. This comes despite ongoing supply limits, especially for higher-end models in the lineup. Early demand has been high enough that some configurations are already facing long delivery delays.
According to Weibo tipster Geek Village Chief (极客村长), Huawei has been shipping Mate 80 units steadily since launch, but supply has not kept pace with demand. The Mate 80 Pro Max, which we have recently reviewed, is the most affected. New orders are being quoted waiting periods of up to two months, with some Huawei stores reportedly pushing delivery estimates to February 2026.
The Mate series has long been Huawei’s flagship line in China, and the Mate 80 continues that trend. The series is popular because it combines high-end hardware with pricing that stays below many competing flagships. Even with new camera hardware, upgraded internals, and deeper HarmonyOS integration, Huawei has kept prices within reach of a wider group of buyers. That balance between features and cost is a major reason behind the fast sales pace. The Mate 80 base model with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage costs CNY 4,699 (around $660 USD), and the Mate 80 Pro model has a starting price of CNY 5,999 (about $840 USD).
Local reports say the Mate 80 series is selling faster in China than recent launches from Apple and Xiaomi, including the iPhone 17 and Xiaomi 17 series. The strong start also points to Huawei’s broader recovery in the domestic market. Over the past year, Huawei has steadily increased its market share and returned to the top tier of smartphone brands in China. Its extensive offline retail network, a loyal customer base, and a consistent flagship launch cycle are driving this recovery.
If supply improves, the Mate 80 series could post very high lifetime shipments. Estimates suggest the lineup could cross 10 to 14 million units over its sales cycle. For now, demand is clearly ahead of supply, and Huawei’s next challenge is scaling production fast enough to match it.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
There’s an uncomfortable reality that tech buyers are slowly being forced to accept. Products are getting expensive even when the hardware itself is not worth it.
We’ve been talking about rising component costs for a while now, especially memory. RAM prices, in particular, have become a recurring headache for manufacturers and consumers alike. And sooner or later, its effect is set to show on store shelves.
Guess what? That buffer period is over now.
Not long after reports surfaced that Samsung may raise its smartphone prices, several Xiaomi products quietly became more expensive in mainland China. The increases range from 100 to 200 yuan, depending on the model.
The affected models
The price hike affects the Xiaomi Pad 8 series as well as every configuration of the Redmi Pad 2. The base Xiaomi Pad 8 now starts at 2,299 yuan, up from 2,199 yuan. Meanwhile, the higher-end Pad 8 Pro has seen its starting price climb from 2,799 yuan to 2,899 yuan.
The entry-level Redmi Pad 2 has been hit the hardest, with all models increasing in price by 200 yuan. It now starts at 1199 yuan.
According to industry analysts, the sudden adjustment is largely driven by the continued surge in memory and storage chip prices.
Xiaomi president Lu Weibing previously warned that storage costs had risen far beyond expectations, and a recent TrendForce report predicts another significant increase in storage prices in the first quarter of 2026.
A major factor behind the trend is the rapid expansion of the AI industry. DRAM production capacity is increasingly being redirected toward data centers, creating a supply-and-demand imbalance for chips used in traditional consumer electronics.
Those cost pressures are now rippling through the supply chain, and Xiaomi’s tablet price increases offer a small but telling example of how the industry is absorbing the shock.
Vivo has officially launched the Vivo Pad 5 Pro Soft Light Edition in China. This new edition retains most specifications of the original Pad 5 Pro released earlier this year, but introduces an upgraded soft light display aimed at enhancing visual comfort.
Vivo Pad 5 Pro Soft Light Edition Specifications
The Pad 5 Pro Soft Light Edition features a 13-inch 3.1K display with a 3096 × 2064 resolution, a 3:2 aspect ratio, and peak brightness reaching 1,200 nits. It supports a 144Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and visuals, while a soft light coating helps reduce glare and eye strain during long sessions.
Vivo integrates dual-side light input technology to improve brightness efficiency while keeping power consumption low. The display also supports ecosystem-level color management to ensure consistent and accurate colors across apps and media content.
Under the hood, the tablet is powered by the flagship-grade MediaTek Dimensity 9400 processor. The chip is complemented by a large 40,600mm² VC cooling system to ensure sustained output without overheating.
The Vivo Pad 5 Pro Soft Light Edition runs OriginOS 5, delivering improved multitasking and productivity features. It supports PC level WPS document handling and includes AI-driven tools designed to manage demanding workflows. The tablet retains a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front-facing camera for everyday photography and video calls.
The device is backed by a large 12,050mAh battery that supports 66W fast charging. It also features an eight-speaker panoramic audio system for a cinema-grade sound experience.
The tablet is impressively slim at 5.96mm and weighs only 578g, making it highly portable. For expanded productivity, vivo offers accessories including the Pencil 3 stylus, Smart Touch Keyboard 5 Pro, and Smart Dual-Sided Protective Case 5 Pro.
Pricing & Availability
The Vivo Pad 5 Pro Soft Light Edition is available in two configurations. The 12GB + 256GB variant is priced at 3,699 yuan ($524) while the 16GB + 512GB version is priced at 4,199 yuan ($595).
Sales have begun in China, and the tablet is available through major online retailers, including Vivo Mall and JD.com.
For more daily updates, please visit ourNews Section.
New light vehicle sales in Panama are up 10.8% year-on-year in November in what is traditionally the slowest month of the year at 4,255 units. The year-to-date tally is up 9.7% to 54,257 units. Toyota (+10.9%) matches the market but has to contend with 17.2% share vs. 19.3% so far this year. Kia (-3.6%) goes against the positive market but climbs back to the 2nd spot it holds year-to-date, passing Hyundai (-35.8%) in a rut. The next seven carmakers are all in positive, 6 of them with double-digit gains. GAC Motors (+104.8%) fares the best at #10, followed by Geely (+62.4%) up to #4, Jetour (+57.6%), Nissan (+47.7%), Changan (+43.1%) now #9 YTD, and Mitsubishi (+19%). Only Suzuki (+1.6%) disappoints. Below, notice Dongfeng (+165.8%), Kaiyi (+93.9%) and BYD (+79.3%) in the remainder of the Top 20. Newcomer Soueast advances to #25.
Over in the models ranking, the Kia Soluto (+33.8%) is crowned the best-seller this month, followed by the Toyota Hilux (+17.3%) up two spots on October to #2 and last month’s leader the Hyundai Grand i10 (-24.7%). The Toyota Yaris Cross (+24.8%) is down one rank to #4 while the Kia Picanto (-24.5%) rounds out the Top 5. Strong performance by the Mitsubishi L200 (+32.1%) at #6 vs. #13 over the Full Year 2024. The Geely GX3 Pro scores its first Top 10 finish since we started following Panama a few months back and is joined by the Geely Coolray. The Changan CS35 Plus points its bonnet at #10.
Want to back up an iPhone locally without iCloud fees? A small Linux-powered device offers encrypted USB backups but you've got to put in the work to set it up.
Idea Spectrum Realtime Landscaping Pro is a feature rich PC-only software package designed to help you create detailed landscaping projects, with a wealth of options, and a vast library of plants and objects.
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.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ash Hewson, CEO of Affinity, explains why the popular design platform is free for all and how the move challenges the prevailing orthodoxy across the creative landscape.
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.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
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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2025 has already welcomed three flagship chips, including Apple A19 Pro, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, and MediaTek Dimensity 9500. Samsung has also confirmed Exynos 2600, which would be launched early next year.
The three chips compete with each other in terms of performance and efficiency. Apple’s chip exclusively powers the iPhone, while Qualcomm and MediaTek provide AP solutions to Android smartphone makers.
Recently, X user Kurnal shared an image that shows a size comparison of Apple A19 Pro, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, and Dimensity 9500. Apple’s silicon beats both of its rivals in terms of die efficiency, being the smallest.
Chip size – Apple vs Qualcomm vs MediaTek
Apple A19 Pro – 98.69 square millimeter
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 – 126.2 square millimeter
Notably, these chips are fabricated on TSMC’s 3nm process technology. Samsung’s upcoming Exynos 2600 is manufactured using its cutting-edge 2nm node. It would surely be smaller than Qualcomm and MediaTek chips.
The image also sheds light on the chip’s components, including CPU, GPU, and NPU. Overall, it’s a pretty nice showdown of Apple’s incredible engineering. Despite being the smallest, it doesn’t compromise performance and efficiency.
Source – Kurnal / X
Apple’s latest iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are equipped with the A19 Pro chip. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 powers Android flagships such as the OnePlus 15 and is confirmed to be featured in the Galaxy S26 Ultra in early 2026.
Chinese vendors also utilize MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 in their flagship devices. Samsung’s upcoming Exynos 2600 is slated to power Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus either in South Korea or in a handful of countries.
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