Smartphone

The Galaxy A25 5G will receive 5 years of software updates from Android 14 onwards. (Image source: Samsung)

Samsung Galaxy A25 5G arrives with modest upgrades from Galaxy A24 4G

Samsung has now kicked off its next series of Galaxy A series smartphones. While its Galaxy S series remains on Galaxy S23 models, the company is already selling the Galaxy A25 5G in some markets, which is more of an evolved Galaxy A24 4G than a complete device overhaul.

Alex Alderson, 12 Dec 2023 17:27

Various Razr 40 Ultra retail units cannot move beyond their launch software. (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Razr 40 Ultra: Updates are a mess for Motorola's flagship Razr foldable

Motorola may be pushing Samsung to improve its clamshell foldable offering. Unfortunately, software support for the Razr+ and Razr 40 Ultra pales in comparison to the Galaxy Z Flip5, with some Razr units remaining stuck on their launch software thanks to unexplained issues.

Alex Alderson, 12 Dec 2023 17:23

The Pixel 8 Pro has a comparatively large battery and faster charging than its predecessor. (Image source: Google)

Google Pixel 8 Pro falls short of Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and Xiaomi 13 Ultra with disappointing battery performance

Based on new analysis, the Pixel 8 Pro cannot keep pace with the battery life or charging capabilities of its peers. As a result, Google's latest flagship sits outside DxOMarks' top 100 smartphones when it comes to battery and charging.

Alex Alderson, 12 Dec 2023 15:53

The Z60 Ultra in its black finish. (Image source: Digital Chat Station)

Nubia Z60 Ultra compared to Apple iPhone 15 Pro as company confirms various hardware upgrades before release

Nubia is not releasing its next flagship for another week. Nonetheless, the company has outlined numerous details about the Z60 Ultra pre-launch, while a renowned leaker has shared several hands-on images of the same device.

Alex Alderson, 12 Dec 2023 15:04

Previous leaks claimed the S24 Ultra would ditch its predecessor's 10x zoom camera. (Source: Samsung)

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Conflicting leak touts upgraded camera specs for January-bound flagship

Prior reports claimed the upcoming Galaxy S24 Ultra would ditch its 10x zoom lens in favor of a 5x zoom camera. New, conflicting information casts doubts on those reports, however, with the next-gen Samsung flagship now rumored to keep its 10x zoom lens, but deliver a significant upgrade on its second zoom camera.

Ricci Rox, 12 Dec 2023 12:38

The Xiaomi HyperOS device list leak features 11 smartphones that should be updated soon. (Image source: Xiaomi - edited)

Xiaomi HyperOS Global device list leaks with first 11 smartphones listed

The first 11 smartphones expected to receive the Xiaomi HyperOS Global software update have been leaked. Unsurprisingly, the list features some big hitters, such as the Xiaomi 13, POCO F5, and Redmi 12. HyperOS is Xiaomi’s replacement for MIUI and will come with better animations, focused notifications, and refreshed home screen icons.

Daniel R Deakin, 12 Dec 2023 05:09

Video Boost can magically improve videos at night on the Pixel 8 Pro, but is not suitable for all scenarios. (Image: Google)

Google Pixel 8 Pro: First Video Boost tests reveal the limits of AI editing

According to Google, the Pixel 8 Pro is supposed to be the best smartphone for low-light video recordings and users can now try out the Video Boost feature that lies behind this bold promise. The first Pixel 8 Pro testers have already tested Video Boost with their own recordings and they appear better only under certain conditions.

Alexander Fagot, 11 Dec 2023 23:00

The Pixel 8 cannot match many recent flagship smartphones when it comes to battery life. (Image source: Google)

Google Pixel 8 struggles in new battery analysis tests against other modern flagships

DxOMark has now tested the battery capabilities of Google's latest smaller flagship. While the Google Pixel 8 excelled in recent camera analysis, it barely surpasses its predecessor and can only manage a meagre 120th finish despite its 4,575 mAh battery capacity.

Alex Alderson, 11 Dec 2023 22:15

watchOS 10.2 heralds the return of a watchOS 9 feature for eligible Apple Watch smartwatches. (Image source: Apple)

Apple brings new features and improvements to Macs and Apple Watches with macOS Sonoma 14.2 and watchOS 10.2 updates

Apple has released new updates for its various operating systems, including macOS and watchOS. Available as macOS Sonoma 14.2 and watchOS 10.2 respectively, the updates introduce several new features each, including the return of swiping to change a watch face on an Apple Watch.

Alex Alderson, 11 Dec 2023 21:41

The POCO M5 could soon be replaced by a re-branded Redmi 13C 5G. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi POCO M6 5G: Evidence of Redmi 13C 5G and Redmi 13R re-brand emerges

An early sighting of the POCO M6 5G has surfaced online. Seemingly, the upcoming POCO smartphone will be another Xiaomi Redmi by another name, this time powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6100 Plus chipset.

Alex Alderson, 11 Dec 2023 19:51

The OnePlus 12 appears to be plagued with quality control issues (image via OnePlus)

Unfortunate OnePlus 12 buyer finds dead bug under phone chassis

A Weibo user unboxed their OnePlus 12 to find a nasty surprise. Along with shoddy construction and panel gaps, there was a dead bug embedded in the smartphone. The company has acknowledged the issue and is working with the user to resolve it.

Anil Ganti, 11 Dec 2023 19:50

The POCO C65 is on the way. (Source: Redmi)

POCO C65 with segment-first 8GB RAM spec set for mid-December 2023 India launch

POCO asserts that it will bring 8GB RAM smartphones within budget for a whole new group of Indian consumers soon. The C65 also boasts a 50MP rear camera hump, finished in a Pastel Design that leaves the viewer in no doubt as to its branding. POCO has set up an exclusive retail partnership to introduce its next "Big Deal" to its new market.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 11 Dec 2023 19:35

Redmi 13C launch as India's latest ~$100 Android smartphone imminent

Redmi India has announced that the smartphone also sometimes known as the POCO C65 will launch as the 13C very shortly. It is to be made available in two "Starshine Design" colorways, and will start at less than the equivalent of $100 in its new market (albeit with caveats). In the meantime, it has sneaked onto Geekbench in a leak that might hint at the specs that come with that price-point.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 11 Dec 2023 19:08

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 are said to foreshadow some of the design changes of the Galaxy S25 flagships for 2025, according to reports from South Korea. (Image: Samsung)

Samsung insider: Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6 to foreshadow the design changes of the Galaxy S25 series

Bigger changes than in previous years are in store for Samsung's next foldables, which are expected in mid-2024 as the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. According to a Samsung insider, we should expect a foretaste of design innovations that will also become mainstream in the flagship Galaxy S25 generation in 2025.

Alexander Fagot, 10 Dec 2023 23:59

Rumors of a Samsung One UI 6.1 version are currently circulating: the UI will supposedly bring a wide range of improvements and is likely to be unveiled together with the Galaxy S24 in January 2024. (Image via @WigettaGaming)

Samsung Galaxy S24 as an AI phone: Numerous images display the many improvements of One UI 6.1 in detail

A brand new One UI 6.1 version has been circulating since this weekend and lots of photos and screenshots provide an idea about the new features and improvements that can be expected on the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+ and Galaxy S24 Ultra, as well as on older Samsung phones in the future. As expected, the magic word is AI.

Alexander Fagot, 10 Dec 2023 23:26

After the Mate 60 RS, the Huawei P70 series is on Huawei's release schedule. The first rumors and leaks are already popping up.

Huawei P70: At least one of the 2024 camera flagships is getting an adapted 1-inch sensor

It is still unclear when Huawei will actually unveil the P70 series; historically, the new camera flagships have always been launched in spring. In 2024, despite all the problems surrounding Huawei smartphones, things should get exciting again because the camera sensors are getting a shake-up, as several leakers affirm.

Alexander Fagot, 10 Dec 2023 21:17

The OnePlus 12 advertises 4500 nits, while the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is rumored to have 6000 nits. Display rumors about the Xiaomi 15 have also appeared. (Image: OnePlus)

6000 nits and more: Xiaomi 14 Ultra and the very first Xiaomi 15 display rumors

Smartphone displays will soon burn our retinas away, as the brightness values advertised in marketing currently only know one direction: upwards. A candidate for a 6000 nits display is said to be the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, and a leaker has provided information about the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Pro.

Alexander Fagot, 10 Dec 2023 20:54

The Honor 90 GT(?). (Source: Factory Manager's Classmate via Weibo)

Honor 90 GT tipped to join Magic6 Pro as 2023/24 smartphone

The Honor Magic6 Pro has reportedly been approved to launch soon as a fast-charging, satellite comms-capable smartphone. Then again, it seems the brand's upcoming flagship might be eclipsed in terms of surprise factor by a new member of the mid-range 90 series. It is thought to address some of its sibling's most polarizing aspects on its possibly imminent debut.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 10 Dec 2023 18:53

An Amazon deal has slashed the Google Pixel 7 Pro price in half (Image Source: Google)

Deal | Grab the Google Pixel 7 Pro at half the list price on Amazon

The Google Pixel 7 Pro is available on Amazon with a 51% discount. At the time of writing, the discount is available on the Snow White color with 128 GB storage. With a 120 Hz refresh rate, tweaked telephoto camera, and the Google Tensor G2 chip, the Google Pixel 7 Pro might be a good purchase at this price.

Nitisha Upadhye, 10 Dec 2023 18:29

A leaked "Find X7" screen. (Source: Novice Evaluation via Weibo)

OPPO Find X7 and X7 Pro slated to launch with OnePlus 12 wired charging tech

The OPPO Find X7 series and the OnePlus 12 are cutting-edge premium Android smartphones with a lot in common, according to the latest leaks. They include the wired charging system alluded to in a new tip. Therefore, OPPO just might also claim that at least one of its new flagships can fully charge in just under half an hour.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 10 Dec 2023 17:55

Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra will join ROG Phone 8 series in 2024 release

In what might be a mega-leak in terms of next-gen Android smartphones from Asus, the ROG Phone 8 and 8 Pro are officially slated to launch with advanced Bluetooth 5.4 wireless connectivity. Furthermore, the next ZenFone will also have this spec - not to mention its series' first ever Ultra variant. The intriguing development might hint at a significant change in design choices compared to the last few years.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 10 Dec 2023 16:40

Nubia Z60 Ultra is gearing up to bring better camera performance (Image source: Nubia [Edited])

Nubia Z60 Ultra claims to break wide-angle camera standards

Nubia has been sharing teasers of the Z60 Ultra for the past couple of days. So far, the brand has shared glimpses of the design, some screen specs, and the smartphone's official launch date. Now, it has revealed key info about the device's wide-angle camera.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 10 Dec 2023 08:18

4 Android features iPhone users are missing out on

CheckMag Despite their similarities, Android and iPhone still provide distinct smartphone experiences, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. However, there's always room for improvement. Here are four Android features that, if adopted, could significantly enhance the iPhone's functionality, further refining its user experience.

Triet Le, 10 Dec 2023 02:06

Just 1 of the Z60 Ultra's rear cameras. (Source: Nubia)

Nubia Z60 Ultra: Android smartphone with multi-camera design update exposed in new leak

Nubia's Z50 Ultra stood out on the Android smartphone market with a dollar coin-shaped (and sized) rear camera hump. However, its successor is now thought to go in a very different direction, with multiple separate statement lenses to adorn its rear panel. Ironically, its display will have no visible selfie camera at all.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 09 Dec 2023 22:03

Apple has seemingly cut off Beeper Mini's access to its servers (Image source: Beeper)

Beeper Mini goes down after Apple blocks access

After Nothing Chats became a flop for security reasons, Beeper Mini made its debut with the promise to bring secure iMessage to Android. And even though it worked reasonably well, Apple has seemingly cut off its access to Apple servers. With this, the app that launched just four days ago went down.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 09 Dec 2023 06:11

Sony might wave farewell to both the bezel-based front camera and the Xperia name in the near future. (Image source: Sony/PEACOCK - edited)

Xperia line may be mothballed as Sony rumored to be eyeing up phone with under-display camera by 2025

A couple of interesting Sony smartphone-related rumors have surfaced, with one in regard to the possible future of the well-respected Xperia line and one about potential cutting-edge camera equipment arriving within a couple of years. Sony first introduced the Xperia brand name in 2008 with the Xperia X1 and released the Xperia 1 V in mid-2023.

Daniel R Deakin, 09 Dec 2023 00:46

The RedMagic 9 Pro is nearly here. (Source: RedMagic)

RedMagic 9 Pro: Global launch date set for next-level gaming smartphone

RedMagic touts its 9 Pro as the "ultimate gaming smartphone" as it is the first of its line to launch with the new top-end Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, not to mention the first to rock triple rear cameras without the hump and one of the biggest batteries in the Android market. Now, it is officially slated to launch internationally before the end of 2023.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 08 Dec 2023 22:15

The POCO X5 Pro's successor could be one of Xiaomi's first global devices running HyperOS. (Image source: Xiaomi)

POCO X6 Pro 5G revealed to be arriving globally with Xiaomi HyperOS, 12 GB RAM and 512 GB storage

A new FCC listing has outlined new details about the POCO X6 Pro 5G, the Redmi K70E's global representative, rather than the POCO F6. Seemingly, the POCO X6 Pro 5G could be one of the first devices outside China to launch with Xiaomi HyperOS 1.0, although it may also contain a few hardware changes from the Redmi K70E.

Alex Alderson, 08 Dec 2023 19:52

The Redmi 13R retails for CNY 999 (~$140) in China. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi Redmi 13R debuts with eye-catching design cues but re-used hardware

The Redmi 13R is Xiaomi's latest Redmi smartphone, usurping the Redmi 13C 5G that debuted earlier this week. Seemingly, the Redmi 13R serves as the Chinese version of the Redmi 13C 5G though thanks to shared specifications.

Alex Alderson, 08 Dec 2023 18:40

OnePlus confirms the global launch date of its latest flagship (Image source: Hardware Info)

OnePlus 12 goes global on January 23

OnePlus 12 has seen a successful launch event in China. However, the company didn't mention anything about the international debut at the domestic launch event. Well, at the Never Settle Summit that took place in Antwerp, Belgium, OnePlus confirmed that the phone will go global on January 23.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 08 Dec 2023 18:10

ASUS has revealed one ROG Phone 8-related teaser so far. (Image source: ASUS)

ASUS ROG Phone 8 series design confirmed in first official teaser

ASUS has now confirmed that it will soon replace the ROG Phone 7 and ROG Phone 7 Ultimate. Predictably arriving as the ROG Phone 8, the new gaming smartphone series appears to depart from the design aesthetics that ASUS established with earlier models.

Alex Alderson, 08 Dec 2023 13:35

All Tensor-powered Pixel smartphones should benefit from GPU improvements thanks to Android 14 QPR1, including the Pixel 8 Pro, pictured. (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Google Pixel 8 Pro and other Tensor Pixels receive gaming performance improvements with new GPU kernel driver

It turns out that Google may have brought noticeable gaming performance improvements to its current flagships through a new GPU kernel driver. Distributed through its latest monthly update, the new GPU kernel driver has been shown to provide better framerates for the likes of the Pixel 8 Pro in demanding games like Genshin Impact.

Alex Alderson, 08 Dec 2023 13:01

With One UI 6.1 in the Galaxy S24, Samsung is finally supposed to significantly modernize the battery protection options. (Image: Ice Universe, edited)

Samsung Galaxy S24 and Co: One UI 6.1 should finally bring more modern battery protection options

To date, Samsung has provided a rather unimaginative option for protecting the battery in its Galaxy phones. The competition, for example from Apple, is much more modern, but the lead is likely to shrink again with the launch of the Galaxy S24 series in January 2024, as a leaker has now shown in the first screenshots. Older Galaxy phones should also benefit from the One UI 6.1 update in 2024.

Alexander Fagot, 08 Dec 2023 09:22

Capture every moment with precision (Image source: Unsplash)

3 best smartphones for photographers on the move

CheckMag The ideal companion for any photographer is a smartphone featuring a high-quality camera, ample storage capacity, extended battery life, and a lightweight design. Explore the smartphone selections tailored for your adventures in this comprehensive guide.

Ayesha Aslam, 07 Dec 2023 23:51

Other smartphones are hardly easier to repair than the Fairphone 5 (Image: Fairphone)

Fairphone 5 impresses in iFixit teardown with convenient repair options and a large range of spare parts

Eight years of updates, a five-year warranty and a wide range of available spare parts: the Fairphone 5 should have a longer life than most of its competitors. A iFixit teardown demonstrates how easy the device actually is to repair.

Hannes Brecher, 07 Dec 2023 22:14

The "OPPO Find X7 Pro". (Source: Novice Evaluation via Weibo)

OPPO Find X7 Pro tipped to launch with curved display and Alert Slider

A new generation of OPPO's flagship Find X-series Android smartphones seem closer to reality as their model numbers have allegedly been exposed in their latest leaks. Meanwhile, the X7 Pro's reputation of an alternative version of the OnePlus 12, albeit with a vastly different camera hump, has met with another boost thanks to its latest leaks.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 07 Dec 2023 20:40

OnePlus Ace 3 display specs outlined in new leak

The Ace 3 is thought to emerge in early 2024 as the cheaper alternative to the new top-end OnePlus 12 smartphone. Now, the upcoming Android device's screen specs are allegedly out there in more detail. The tip hints at a tough choice between the 12 and its upcoming subordinate, despite the latter's putative sub-flagship status.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 07 Dec 2023 18:49

Another Motorola x Pantone Razr+ colorway is here. (Source: Motorola)

Motorola Razr Plus: New Pantone Color of the Year 2024 edition becomes available

The Razr Plus has the biggest cover display of its foldable clamshell smartphone line-up; now, it also has a new color option. Furthermore, the shade in question is also 2024's Pantone Color of the Year. Motorola asserts that its "new look for a new year" will help transform the user's life with its "warm" hue.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 07 Dec 2023 18:39

The Galaxy A25 5G in its yellow finish. (Image source: Digitec)

Samsung Galaxy A25 5G: Galaxy A24 successor coming on December 19 according to new retailer leaks

Samsung's next mid-range smartphone has been spotted in several retailer leaks. Listed on Digitec in Switzerland, the Galaxy A25 5G will be available in under two weeks' time with three launch colours. The same retailer has confirmed all key device specifications before launch day, too.

Alex Alderson, 07 Dec 2023 15:22

The Pixel 8 Pro has gained nearly 40 fixes with its December 2023 update. (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro receive almost 40 bug fixes with latest updates

As part of its latest round of updates, Google has now published Android 14 QPR1 for various Pixel devices. Available to the Pixel 5a onwards, the new update introduces dozens of improvements and just as many security fixes via the December 2023 security patch update.

Alex Alderson, 07 Dec 2023 13:16

The Realme GT5 Pro has been launched in China (image via Realme)

Realme GT5 Pro announced in China with top-shelf hardware and surprisingly affordable price tag

The Realme GT5 Pro has been launched in China with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 6.8-inch 1.5k 144 Hz display, 5,400 mAh battery and three rear cameras.

Anil Ganti, 07 Dec 2023 10:42

Real-world Galaxy S24 Ultra photos have emerged online (image via sogi.com.tw)

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Alleged real-world images highlight titanium chassis and minor design changes compared to Galaxy S23 Ultra

Someone has put the Galaxy S24 Ultra next to the Galaxy S23 Ultra. The former's titanium chassis gives the smartphone a unique sheen. Samsung has also tweaked some minor design parameters of its upcoming flagship.

Anil Ganti, 07 Dec 2023 09:26

OnePlus 12 teardown reveals a large-sized vapor cooling chamber (Image source: WekiHome YouTube)

OnePlus 12 teardown video showcases huge vapor cooling chamber

OnePlus 12 hasn’t made its global debut yet, but it has been a hot topic since its launch in China. And the local media has already started to test out the device in every possible way. The WekiHome team, for example, did a complete teardown, which revealed a huge vapor-cooling chamber inside.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 07 Dec 2023 05:46

The Vivo S18 has an "Aura Light" that is designed to illuminate photos more evenly. (Image: Vivo)

Vivo S18 Pro to be launched soon with 50 MP selfie camera, large Aura Light and main camera of the Vivo X100

Vivo will unveil three exciting mid-range smartphones in a few days' time, namely the S18, S18e and S18 Pro. These are designed to take much better photos and videos than their rivals, especially in low light, thanks to the integrated Aura Light on the back and two LEDs above the display.

Hannes Brecher, 06 Dec 2023 22:47

The Google Pixel 7 Pro has reached an all-time low on Amazon (Image: Daniel Schmidt)

Deal | Google Pixel 7 Pro with 512GB of storage gets steepest discount ever on Amazon

(Updated: Now discounted up to 51%) Amazon's latest smartphone deal offers compelling discounts of up to 47 percent on practically all versions of the Pixel 7 Pro, including the top-end model with a whopping 512GB of storage. Therefore, Google's flagship handset from last year might even be a better buy than the slightly improved Pixel 8.

Enrico Frahn, 06 Dec 2023 22:13

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro have received the most new features with Google's latest Pixel Feature Drop. (Image source: Google)

December 2023 Pixel Feature Drop starts rolling out for Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro and other Pixel devices

Google has now released a new Pixel Feature Drop for the Pixel 5a 5G onwards. The last of 2023, the latest Feature Drop adds various features to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, with a few Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet-specific changes included, too.

Alex Alderson, 06 Dec 2023 19:24

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 in light blue color (Image source: Samsung)

Deal | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 now 35% off as a Holiday Deal on Amazon

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4, a factory-unlocked Android smartphone with 128 GB storage, is now available at a discounted price of $649.99. It features a 6.7-inch display that folds into a compact form factor.

Robert Gelo, 06 Dec 2023 19:18

More details about Xiaomi 14 Ultra has popped up (Image source: Xiaomi)

Tipster shares camera, battery, and screen info of Xiaomi 14 Ultra

Digital Chat Station, a reliable tipster, has shared newer details on the camera, battery, and screen of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. It will reportedly feature a dual telephoto lens with a new architecture, a larger high-density battery, and a micro-curved 4D screen.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 06 Dec 2023 18:59