Vivo T5 will feature a 6.83-inch curved AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The display is also rated to reach up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness, which should help improve outdoor visibility and make scrolling and animations feel smoother.

Large Battery in a Slim Body

One of the phone’s standout specifications is its 7,050mAh battery. That is considerably larger than the batteries found in many mainstream smartphones, suggesting that vivo is placing a strong emphasis on endurance.

Despite packing such a large battery, the T5 is listed at just 7.99mm thick. If the final retail design maintains that measurement without making the phone excessively heavy, it could offer an interesting balance between battery capacity and everyday portability.

Under the hood, the device will reportedly be powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 7500 Turbo chipset. While vivo has not yet revealed every hardware detail, the processor should position the T5 as a performance-focused option within the company’s T-series lineup.

Two Color Options

vivo will reportedly offer the T5 in two finishes: Royal Copper and Silver Green. The color choices give the phone a more distinctive appearance compared with the increasingly common black, blue and gray finishes seen across the smartphone market.

The curved display should also contribute to a more premium visual design, particularly when combined with the relatively slim 7.99mm body.

Possible Connection to the iQOO Z11

Interestingly, the vivo T5 appears to share a close relationship with with iQOO Z11 Indian model.

The iQOO Z11 Indian model is known to feature 44W wired charging and a 32-megapixel front-facing camera, raising the possibility that the two phones could share parts of their hardware platform or specifications.

However, vivo has not yet confirmed the full specifications of the T5, so it would be premature to assume that the two models are identical.

vivo T5 Launch Date

Vivo T5 is scheduled to launch in India on September 2. Its combination of a 6.83-inch 144Hz curved AMOLED display, Dimensity 7500 Turbo processor, slim 7.99mm body and massive 7,050mAh battery makes it one of the more interesting upcoming additions to vivo’s T-series.

More details, including pricing, camera specifications, charging capabilities and availability, should be revealed at the official launch.

The post Vivo T5 Confirmed for India: 6.83-Inch Curved AMOLED Display and 7,050mAh Battery appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

That change sounds simple, but it is more significant when you look at what Minimal is trying to build. The Phone 2 is not competing with conventional flagship phones on screen size or camera hardware. Instead, it combines a small 3.92-inch OLED display, a physical QWERTY keyboard, Android-based software and a compact body designed around focused smartphone use.

The latest RAM upgrade therefore raises a bigger question: does the additional memory make the Minimal Phone 2 a more practical everyday smartphone, or is its real appeal still the unusual keyboard-first experience?

Minimal Phone 2 RAM Upgrade Changes the Standard Configuration

The standard Minimal Phone 2 was originally listed with 8GB of RAM, while the Kickstarter Founders Edition offered a higher memory configuration.

Minimal has since announced an upgrade that increases the standard model to 12GB of RAM. The campaign’s official update also indicates that existing 8GB backers can receive the higher-memory configuration if the relevant funding milestone is reached.

This is more than a specification-sheet improvement.

The Minimal Phone 2 runs an Android-based operating system and is designed to handle normal smartphone applications rather than functioning as a restricted feature phone. More RAM can therefore give the device additional headroom when switching between messaging, navigation, email, productivity tools and other applications.

However, 12GB of RAM should not automatically be interpreted as flagship-level performance. Memory capacity is only one part of the equation. The Dimensity 8300 processor, software optimization and application compatibility will ultimately determine how responsive the phone feels in everyday use.

Why the Minimal Phone 2 Is Different From a Normal Smartphone

The most interesting thing about the Minimal Phone 2 isn’t actually the 12GB RAM.

It is the combination of physical keyboard, compact OLED display and Minimal OS.

The phone measures approximately 122.6 × 72 × 9.48mm, making it considerably smaller than the large-screen smartphones that dominate today’s market. Its 3.92-inch OLED display has a 1080 × 1240 resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate.

That small screen changes the way the device is likely to be used.

Watching long videos or browsing image-heavy websites will naturally be less comfortable than on a conventional 6.5-inch or larger smartphone. But the smaller display can also make the phone feel more intentional. Users can still access smartphone functions while having less physical screen space for endless scrolling.

This is an important distinction because Minimal is not trying to remove Android completely. Instead, the company is attempting to make everyday smartphone functions more accessible without making the device feel like another large entertainment screen.

The QWERTY Keyboard Remains the Main Attraction

The physical keyboard is still the feature that gives the Minimal Phone 2 its identity.

Instead of relying entirely on an on-screen keyboard, users can type messages, notes and other short-form content using physical keys. That could be particularly appealing to people who prefer tactile feedback when writing.

The keyboard also works with the phone’s software-focused approach. Minimal OS is built on Android and includes tools intended to make common actions quicker while reducing unnecessary interaction with individual apps.

That makes the Phone 2 different from simply buying a small Android phone.

The hardware and software are being designed around a particular behavior: use the phone when you need it, then put it away.

Whether that philosophy works in practice will depend heavily on keyboard comfort, software responsiveness and how well the interface handles everyday tasks.

A 90Hz OLED Display Replaces the E-Ink Approach

One of the biggest changes from the previous Minimal Phone is the move away from E-Ink.

The Minimal Phone 2 uses a 3.92-inch OLED panel with a 90Hz refresh rate. The change makes the new model much more conventional from a display perspective and should provide a smoother experience for applications, animations, maps and other visual content.

That creates an interesting contradiction.

The original Minimal Phone’s E-Ink display was itself part of the distraction-reduction concept. By moving to OLED, the Phone 2 becomes much more capable as a conventional smartphone.

But that does not necessarily defeat the idea behind Minimal.

The company is shifting more of the anti-distraction responsibility from the display hardware to the operating system and physical design. The smaller screen, keyboard and software controls now have to do more of the work that E-Ink previously handled naturally.

In other words, the Minimal Phone 2 is less about making the screen deliberately slow and more about making the entire phone less tempting to use unnecessarily.

Dimensity 8300 Gives It Enough Headroom for Android

The phone uses MediaTek’s Dimensity 8300 chipset.

This is an important choice because the Minimal Phone 2 is not supposed to be a simple minimalist feature phone. It retains Android compatibility while adding modern connectivity and smartphone functions.

The processor should provide enough performance for everyday activities such as messaging, web browsing, navigation and productivity applications.

The 12GB RAM upgrade also gives the device more memory headroom than the original 8GB configuration.

Still, buyers shouldn’t purchase the phone because the RAM number looks impressive. The more meaningful question is whether Minimal can keep the software responsive while maintaining its low-distraction philosophy.

A highly optimized 8GB phone can feel better than a poorly optimized 12GB phone. The real test will come when consumers begin using the finished hardware.

Camera and Battery Specifications

The Minimal Phone 2 also moves beyond the deliberately limited hardware of its predecessor.

It features a 50MP rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture and a 20MP front-facing camera. The device also carries a 3,000mAh battery with support for 27W wired charging and 15W wireless charging.

The battery capacity looks small by 2026 standards, but the phone’s compact OLED display changes the comparison.

A smaller panel does not automatically guarantee excellent battery life, of course. Processor efficiency, network connectivity, brightness, software behavior and user habits will all have an impact.

This is another area where the final retail product matters more than the specification sheet.

If Minimal manages to optimize the software effectively, the 3,000mAh battery could be sufficient for its intended audience. If background applications and 5G usage consume more power than expected, the compact battery could become one of the phone’s biggest limitations.

Connectivity Is More Complete Than the Design Suggests

The Minimal Phone 2 isn’t minimalist in terms of connectivity.

The specifications include 5G, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, Wi-Fi 6E and dual-SIM support using a physical SIM and eSIM. There is also a side-mounted fingerprint reader, a 3.5mm headphone jack, dual speakers and dual microphones.

The USB-C port supports USB 3.2, DisplayPort output and USB-C audio.

These features are significant because they prevent the phone from becoming overly restrictive.

Someone could use the Minimal Phone 2 as a normal connected smartphone while still taking advantage of the smaller display and physical keyboard.

That balance is arguably more important than the RAM upgrade itself.

The $599 Price Makes the RAM Upgrade More Interesting

Kickstarter pricing starts at $599 for the 256GB configuration, while the 512GB version is priced higher. The campaign also includes a special Founders Edition with its own memory and storage configuration.

At $599, the Minimal Phone 2 isn’t trying to be the cheapest Android smartphone available.

That means buyers are paying for the concept as much as the hardware.

A conventional phone at this price can offer a much larger display, more cameras and a more familiar design. The Minimal Phone 2 instead spends part of its hardware budget on features that are increasingly uncommon, especially the physical QWERTY keyboard and 3.5mm headphone jack.

The move to 12GB RAM improves the specification without changing the phone’s basic identity.

For existing backers, the upgrade is particularly appealing because additional memory can extend the phone’s practical lifespan as Android applications become more demanding.

The Real Question Is Whether the Concept Works

The Minimal Phone 2 has enough hardware to look convincing on paper.

It has a modern OLED panel, a Dimensity 8300 processor, 5G, up to substantial storage, wireless charging and a much larger RAM configuration than originally planned.

But none of those features answers the most important question.

Is a small QWERTY Android phone actually better for everyday use?

For users who spend much of their day writing messages, emails, notes and short replies, the physical keyboard could be a genuine advantage.

For people who primarily watch video, edit photos, play games or browse social media, the 3.92-inch display will probably feel restrictive.

That means the Minimal Phone 2 isn’t necessarily trying to beat mainstream smartphones.

It is trying to attract people who want a smartphone that encourages a different pattern of use.

What the 12GB Upgrade Really Means

The jump to 12GB RAM is useful, but it shouldn’t be viewed as the reason to buy the Minimal Phone 2.

The more important development is that Minimal is gradually turning a niche minimalist-phone concept into a more capable Android smartphone.

The original product leaned heavily on hardware limitations to discourage phone use. The Phone 2 takes a different route: a responsive OLED screen, modern connectivity and a capable processor are combined with a smaller physical footprint, a QWERTY keyboard and software designed to reduce distraction.

That is a much harder balance to achieve.

The phone needs to remain useful enough that owners don’t feel forced to carry a second device, while still being different enough from a conventional smartphone to justify its price.

The 12GB RAM upgrade helps with the first part of that equation.

The keyboard and compact design are responsible for the second.

Final Take

The Minimal Phone 2 is becoming one of the more unusual smartphone projects of 2026, not because it has the highest specifications, but because it deliberately moves away from the standard smartphone formula.

The 12GB RAM upgrade gives the standard model more breathing room, while the Dimensity 8300, 90Hz OLED display, 5G connectivity and modern charging features make it far more capable than a traditional minimalist phone.

But the biggest reason to consider the device remains the same: the physical keyboard and the different way it encourages users to interact with Android.

For buyers who want a compact productivity-focused phone, that combination could be compelling. For users who want a large display, powerful cameras or an entertainment-first smartphone, there are more conventional choices that make better sense.

The Kickstarter campaign’s growing funding shows that there is interest in the idea. The real test will begin when the finished phones reach users and the keyboard, battery life, software and everyday Android experience can be judged outside the specification sheet.

The post Minimal Phone 2 Gets 12GB RAM Upgrade: What the $599 QWERTY Phone Is Really Offering appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

According to a report from Chinese tech media, the Xiaomi 18 Fold is expected to debut in early September, with an official announcement potentially coming as soon as next week. The device has already opened for blind pre-orders in China, but Xiaomi has yet to reveal its final retail pricing.

Xiaomi 18 Fold Could Cost Around ¥12,000

Several Chinese bloggers reportedly expect the Xiaomi 18 Fold to be priced at around ¥12,000.

If that estimate proves accurate, the foldable would be positioned close to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold8, which reportedly starts at ¥12,999 in China.

Pricing remains unconfirmed at this stage, however, and Xiaomi could offer multiple memory and storage configurations with different prices.

The Xiaomi 18 Fold could have an interesting advantage over its main competitors if the leaked hardware specifications are accurate. Reports claim that the phone will combine a powerful new chipset with an additional telephoto camera, potentially giving Xiaomi a more aggressive hardware package than some competing book-style foldables.

Wide Inner Display Could Be the Main Attraction

Unlike traditional foldable phones with relatively square inner screens, the Xiaomi 18 Fold is expected to use a wider inner display.

That design could make the phone more practical when unfolded. Watching widescreen video may result in smaller black bars, while split-screen multitasking could provide more usable horizontal space for documents, browsers and productivity applications.

Xiaomi is also reportedly preparing HyperOS 4 with deeper optimization for the wider display. If the software is properly adapted to the unusual screen ratio, the large inner panel could become more than simply a bigger screen and instead provide a more useful multitasking interface.

This could be one of the Xiaomi 18 Fold’s biggest differences from conventional book-style foldables.

XRING O3 Could Deliver a Major Performance Upgrade

Performance is expected to be another major selling point.

The Xiaomi 18 Fold is reportedly set to debut with Xiaomi’s next-generation XRING O3 chipset. The chip is said to use a 10-core all-big-core CPU architecture and has reportedly exceeded 15,000 points in multi-core benchmark testing.

According to the leaked figures, CPU performance could improve by around 60% compared with the previous generation.

The GPU is also expected to receive a substantial upgrade. XRING O3 reportedly introduces the G2-Ultra NX GPU, with graphics performance claimed to be approximately 85% higher while power consumption could be reduced by as much as 64%.

These figures have not yet been independently verified, so real-world performance will ultimately depend on Xiaomi’s final software tuning and thermal management.

Reportedly the First Mobile Chip With LPDDR6 Support

Another notable claim concerns memory technology.

XRING O3 is reportedly the first mobile processor to support LPDDR6 memory, with a maximum memory bandwidth of approximately 113.8GB/s. That would represent an estimated 48% increase over XRING O1, according to the leaked information.

The chipset is also said to use Xiaomi’s unified interconnect architecture together with advanced top-layer metal routing technology. The combination reportedly reduces static latency to approximately 82ns, potentially improving communication between different parts of the system.

For everyday users, these architectural changes may not be immediately visible in a specification sheet. Their real value will depend on whether they translate into smoother multitasking, faster application response and more consistent performance under sustained workloads.

Xiaomi 18 Fold vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8

If the reported ¥12,000 price is accurate, Xiaomi would be entering a highly competitive segment.

Samsung has already established its Fold series as one of the best-known book-style foldable lines, while Xiaomi appears to be taking a different approach by emphasizing a wider inner display and aggressive hardware specifications.

The reported XRING O3 platform, dedicated telephoto camera and wide-screen design could give the Xiaomi 18 Fold a distinctive position.

However, price alone will not determine its value. Hinge durability, thickness, weight, battery life, camera quality, software optimization and long-term update support will all be important factors.

Xiaomi 18 Fold: What to Expect

The Xiaomi 18 Fold is shaping up to be an ambitious first-generation wide-format foldable from Xiaomi.

A rumored price around ¥12,000, combined with the XRING O3 processor, a wider inner screen, LPDDR6 support and a dedicated telephoto camera, suggests that Xiaomi wants to compete directly with the most expensive foldable phones rather than positioning the device as a budget alternative.

The final price and specifications should become clearer when Xiaomi officially announces the phone in early September.

Until then, the reported ¥12,000 price, 15,000+ multi-core score, 85% GPU improvement and LPDDR6 support should be treated as leaked information rather than confirmed specifications.

The post Xiaomi 18 Fold Price Reportedly Leaked: Could Break the ¥10,000 Mark With XRING O3 appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The Pad 9 Pro Max is reportedly equipped with a 13-inch large display, giving it a noticeably bigger screen than many mainstream tablets. Xiaomi is also expected to offer a soft-light display version, which could provide a more comfortable viewing experience during extended reading and productivity sessions while maintaining a sharp image.

XRING O3 Could Make Its Tablet Debut

The biggest highlight may be inside the tablet.

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max is rumored to be the first device to use Xiaomi’s next-generation XRING O3 chipset. The processor is reportedly paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, putting the tablet firmly in flagship territory.

The leaked configuration also points to a battery exceeding 10,000mAh, combined with support for 120W wired fast charging. Despite the large screen and high-capacity battery, the tablet is said to weigh around 650 grams, which would make it relatively light for a device of this size.

Reported CPU Performance

According to the leaked information, XRING O3 will feature a 10-core all-big-core CPU architecture with a maximum clock speed of up to 4.35GHz.

The tipster claims the platform achieved a Geekbench 6 multi-core score of 15,221, representing an approximately 60% improvement over the previous generation.

Power efficiency is also reportedly receiving attention. Xiaomi’s internal testing is said to show around a 25% reduction in power consumption during everyday usage scenarios compared with the previous generation.

These numbers have not yet been independently verified, so they should be treated as preliminary results until Xiaomi officially introduces the chip and tablet.

New GPU Could Bring a Major Graphics Boost

Graphics performance is another area where the XRING O3 is expected to make a significant jump.

The chipset is reportedly the first to use Xiaomi’s new-generation G2-Ultra NX GPU, while retaining a large 16-core configuration.

According to the leaked figures, traditional graphics performance could improve by around 85% compared with the previous generation, while ray-tracing performance may increase by as much as 182%.

Xiaomi is also said to have worked on GPU efficiency alongside raw performance. The goal appears to be delivering higher graphics output without creating a proportional increase in power consumption.

AnTuTu Score Reportedly Tops Five Million

The leaked information claims that XRING O3 reached an AnTuTu overall score of 5,228,014 in Xiaomi’s laboratory testing.

If accurate, that would put the platform above the five-million-point mark and make it one of the most powerful mobile chipsets currently discussed.

However, benchmark results can vary significantly depending on firmware, temperature, test conditions and performance modes. The final retail performance of the Pad 9 Pro Max will therefore be more important than a single pre-launch score.

Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max Could Launch Alongside Xiaomi 18 Fold

Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max is reportedly scheduled to debut alongside the Xiaomi 18 Fold.

If this information is accurate, the event could become an important showcase for Xiaomi’s latest high-end hardware strategy. The tablet would provide the first major platform for the XRING O3 in a large-screen device, while the Xiaomi 18 Fold would demonstrate the company’s approach to next-generation foldable hardware.

With a 13-inch display, more than 10,000mAh of battery capacity, 120W charging and up to 16GB of memory and 1TB of storage, the Pad 9 Pro Max is shaping up to be an unusually ambitious Android tablet.

The biggest question is whether Xiaomi can turn the impressive leaked benchmark figures into sustained real-world performance while keeping heat and power consumption under control. More definitive information should emerge when Xiaomi officially announces the device and XRING O3.

The post Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max Specs Leaked: 13-Inch Display, 10,000mAh+ Battery and XRING O3 appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

According to the leaked footage, the Mate XT 2 could introduce a significant change compared with its predecessor: an additional outer display. The phone also appears to feature a pill-shaped cutout on the front, giving the cover side a more conventional smartphone appearance when the device is folded.

From Z-Shaped to G-Shaped Folding

One of the most notable changes is the folding mechanism.

The original Huawei Mate XT used a Z-shaped folding structure, while the Mate XT 2 is reportedly moving to a G-shaped folding design. This change could alter how the three sections of the device overlap when folded and potentially provide a different balance between screen protection, thickness, and usability.

The exact mechanical structure and durability improvements, however, will need to be confirmed by Huawei.

Familiar Octagonal Camera Module

The rear camera design appears to retain some of the visual identity of the previous generation. The leaked device reportedly uses a large octagonal-shaped camera module on the back, resembling the design language seen on the original Mate XT.

This suggests Huawei is changing the folding architecture while keeping a recognizable camera design to maintain continuity between generations.

Official Launch Expected on September 7

The Mate XT 2 has not been officially detailed in full yet, but Huawei executive Richard Yu (Yu Chengdong) has already confirmed that a new triple-folding smartphone is on the way.

Huawei has scheduled its HarmonyOS 7 | HUAWEI Mate XT 2 and All-Scenario New Product Launch for September 7 at 2:30 p.m. China time.

The event should provide the first official look at the Mate XT 2, including its folding mechanism, display configuration, cameras, hardware specifications, and other new features.

For now, the leaked video points to a clear design direction: Huawei may be moving beyond the Z-shaped structure of the first-generation Mate XT with a new G-shaped folding approach and a dedicated outer display. More details should become available when Huawei officially unveils the device next month.

The post Huawei Mate XT 2 Triple-Folding Phone Revealed in New Video, Reportedly Adds an Outer Display appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The Galaxy S26 FE is also notable as the first Galaxy S26-series smartphone to ship with One UI 9 out of the box, giving Samsung an opportunity to introduce its latest software experience on a device positioned below the standard flagship models.

Rather than focusing on one dramatic hardware change, Samsung has upgraded several areas of the S26 FE, including the display, processor, battery system and camera capabilities.

6.7-Inch AMOLED Display With 120Hz Refresh Rate

The Galaxy S26 FE features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X flat display with an FHD+ resolution.

The panel supports a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, allowing animations, scrolling and compatible games to appear smoother than on conventional 60Hz displays.

Samsung also rates the display for up to 1,900 nits of peak brightness. That should give the phone stronger visibility in bright outdoor environments, although actual brightness can vary depending on the content being displayed and the surrounding conditions.

The flat-screen design also maintains a familiar form factor for users who prefer a conventional smartphone rather than curved-edge displays.

Slim Body With IP68 Protection

Despite the large screen, the Galaxy S26 FE maintains a relatively slim profile.

The phone measures 161.6 × 76.9 × 7.4mm and weighs 193 grams.

Samsung offers the device in three colors: Blueberry, Graphite and Pistachio.

The handset also carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, providing additional protection for everyday use.

The combination of a large display, relatively restrained thickness and IP68 protection makes the S26 FE feel closer to a mainstream flagship than a typical mid-range phone.

Exynos 2500 Brings 3nm Processing

One of the biggest hardware changes is hidden inside the device.

The Galaxy S26 FE is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 2500 processor, manufactured using a 3nm process.

The phone comes with 8GB of RAM and is available with 128GB, 256GB or 512GB of internal storage.

Moving to a 3nm chipset gives Samsung the opportunity to improve performance and efficiency simultaneously, although the real-world results will depend on the processor architecture, software optimization and thermal management.

The 512GB version should also appeal to users who regularly store large photo libraries, videos, games and applications locally.

4,900mAh Battery With Multiple Charging Options

The Galaxy S26 FE packs a 4,900mAh battery.

Charging support includes 45W wired fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and wireless reverse charging.

That combination gives users several ways to recharge the phone or share power with compatible accessories.

The 4,900mAh capacity is not particularly unusual for a modern large-screen smartphone, but the efficiency of the 3nm Exynos 2500 could play an important role in determining actual battery life.

As always, endurance will depend on factors such as display refresh rate, brightness, mobile connectivity, gaming and camera usage.

Triple Camera System Gets a Major Upgrade

Photography is another area where Samsung has focused on improving the Galaxy S26 FE.

The rear camera system consists of:

• 50MP main camera
• 12MP ultra-wide camera
• 8MP telephoto camera

Both the main and telephoto cameras support optical image stabilization (OIS).

The telephoto lens provides 3x optical zoom and can reach up to 30x digital zoom.

The combination should give the S26 FE more flexibility than a phone relying solely on a high-resolution primary sensor. Users can switch between standard, ultra-wide and telephoto perspectives depending on the scene.

The front camera has also been upgraded to 12MP and offers a wider field of view, making it easier to fit several people into a group selfie.

My FanCam Brings Automatic Subject Tracking to Video

One of the more unusual camera features on the Galaxy S26 FE is My FanCam.

The function was previously introduced on Samsung’s latest foldable devices and is now making its way to the Fan Edition lineup.

When recording video, users can select a particular person as the subject. The system then uses automatic recognition and tracking to follow that person throughout the recording.

Instead of requiring the user to manually keep the subject centered, the software can intelligently crop the footage to maintain the selected person near the middle of the frame.

This could be particularly useful at concerts, sporting events and other crowded environments, where keeping track of one specific person can be difficult.

The feature also demonstrates how Samsung is increasingly using computational photography and AI-assisted processing to improve the final result rather than relying entirely on camera hardware.

Super Steady Adds Horizon Locking

The Galaxy S26 FE also supports Samsung’s Super Steady stabilization mode.

This version adds horizon locking, designed to keep the video orientation more consistent while the phone is moving.

That could be useful when recording while walking, running or filming fast-moving activities where conventional stabilization may not be enough to prevent unwanted movement.

Combined with My FanCam, the S26 FE has a stronger emphasis on video recording than its specifications alone might suggest.

Nightography Targets Low-Light Shooting

Samsung has also included its Nightography technology for nighttime and low-light photography.

Night photography is often one of the areas where smartphone cameras show the largest differences, as the device has to balance brightness, noise reduction, color accuracy and detail.

The S26 FE’s combination of optical stabilization on the main camera and telephoto camera, computational processing and Nightography should give users more flexibility when shooting after dark.

However, actual image quality will ultimately depend on Samsung’s image-processing algorithms and the final tuning of the camera system.

A More Flagship-Like Fan Edition

The Galaxy S26 FE continues Samsung’s strategy of bringing selected flagship technologies to a lower-priced model.

At $699.99, it isn’t positioned as an entry-level smartphone. Instead, it targets users who want many of Samsung’s premium features without moving all the way up to the company’s most expensive flagship models.

The combination of a 6.7-inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, 3nm Exynos 2500, up to 512GB storage, wireless charging, IP68 protection and a versatile triple-camera setup gives the phone a relatively complete feature set.

More importantly, features such as My FanCam, horizon-locked Super Steady and Nightography give the S26 FE a stronger focus on practical photography and video use.

For buyers who prioritize a large AMOLED display, Samsung’s software ecosystem and versatile cameras, the Galaxy S26 FE could be one of the more balanced options in the company’s 2026 lineup.

The post Samsung Galaxy S26 FE Launches at $699.99 With 3nm Exynos 2500 and Enhanced Camera Features appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The Pura X View is positioned as a wide-screen straight smartphone rather than a conventional narrow flagship. Ahead of its official launch, retail stores have already begun displaying working units, giving consumers an early look at the device.

More importantly, configuration information shared by Chinese blogger RuryRen reportedly confirms that the Pura X View is powered by Huawei’s Kirin 9030S chipset.

Kirin 9030S Powers the New Pura X View

The Kirin 9030S is not an unfamiliar platform within Huawei’s current flagship lineup. The processor debuted with the Pura 90 Pro and Pura 90 Pro Max and is expected to continue appearing in upcoming high-end Huawei devices.

According to the reported configuration, the Kirin 9030S uses a CPU arrangement consisting of:

• 1 ultra-large core at up to 2.69GHz
• 3 large cores at up to 2.15GHz
• 4 medium cores at up to 1.62GHz

Graphics processing is handled by Huawei’s Maleoon 935F GPU, reportedly running at up to 933MHz with a 3-core configuration.

The Pura X View will reportedly be offered in three storage configurations:

• 12GB + 256GB
• 12GB + 512GB
• 12GB + 1TB

The 1TB option gives the phone considerable storage capacity, particularly for users who regularly capture high-resolution photos and videos or keep large numbers of applications and files locally.

HarmonyOS 7 Makes Its Debut on the Device

Another major software highlight is the operating system.

The Pura X View is expected to be the first Huawei smartphone to ship with HarmonyOS 7, according to the information released ahead of launch.

Huawei is also introducing an upgraded version of its Ark Engine with the device. The company says its performance-focused system will incorporate a large-scale performance model trained using more than 2 billion pieces of scenario-learning data.

Huawei claims this can deliver approximately a 15% performance improvement, while annual performance-load growth is expected to remain at or below 10%.

The real-world impact will depend on how effectively the software, processor and applications work together, but the new system could become one of the key differentiators for the Pura X View.

A 16:9.5 Display Takes a Different Approach

The most distinctive feature of the Pura X View may be its screen.

Huawei says the phone introduces an industry-first 16:9.5 wide-format display, moving away from the tall and narrow proportions used by most modern smartphones.

The panel uses an extremely slim 1.05mm four-sided bezel design, helping the device achieve a reported 96.1% screen-to-body ratio.

Interestingly, the phone’s physical display size is only 6.39 inches, but Huawei claims its unusual proportions provide a display area of approximately 114.27cm².

According to the company, this allows the Pura X View to show more content than a conventional 6.9-inch straight-screen smartphone in certain usage scenarios.

The wider format could be particularly useful for reading, browsing webpages, viewing documents and other tasks where additional horizontal space can make content feel less cramped.

Wide Screen Without a Bulky Body

A wider display often creates an obvious design challenge: making the phone comfortable to hold.

Huawei appears to have addressed that issue by keeping the body relatively compact and lightweight.

The Pura X View reportedly weighs just 201 grams and measures only 6.68mm thick.

Despite the wide-screen design, Huawei claims that the phone remains comfortable for one-handed use.

That combination is particularly notable because the device also packs a 7,000mAh battery.

A battery of this size is significantly larger than what is found in many conventional flagship smartphones, potentially giving the Pura X View an advantage in endurance.

The challenge will be balancing that large battery with the phone’s slim chassis and keeping heat and weight under control.

Four Colors and a Distinctive Rear Design

Huawei will reportedly offer the Pura X View in four finishes:

• Dynamic Red
• Linen Gray
• Zero-Degree White
• Phantom Night Black

The rear panel uses a textured glass design with a three-dimensional grating effect.

Rather than relying on a simple flat finish, Huawei uses geometric patterns and optical-grating techniques to create changing light effects across the surface.

The camera module follows a racetrack-shaped ring DECO design, giving the rear of the phone a recognizable visual identity.

This design language fits with the broader philosophy of the Pura X View: the phone is not simply another flagship with a faster processor, but an attempt to make the screen proportions and physical design part of the product’s identity.

A Different Kind of Huawei Flagship

The Pura X View is interesting because Huawei is addressing several smartphone trends at once.

It combines the Kirin 9030S, HarmonyOS 7, a 16:9.5 wide display, an unusually high claimed screen-to-body ratio, a 7,000mAh battery, and a body measuring only 6.68mm thick.

The screen is arguably the biggest differentiator.

Most smartphones have gradually moved toward taller aspect ratios, but Huawei Pura series is taking the opposite approach by making the display wider. That could improve the experience of reading, browsing and viewing content while reducing the feeling that users are simply holding an elongated rectangle.

At the same time, the large battery and relatively light 201g body suggest that Huawei is trying to make the unusual screen format practical rather than purely experimental.

Launch Date and What We Still Don’t Know

Huawei has already opened reservations for the Pura X View, but the company has not yet disclosed its official price.

The smartphone is scheduled to be officially released and go on sale on September 7.

Its combination of a new Kirin platform, HarmonyOS 7, wide-format display and 7,000mAh battery gives it a distinctive specification sheet. However, the actual value of these features will depend heavily on pricing and real-world performance.

For now, the Pura X View stands out as one of Huawei’s more unconventional smartphones. Instead of competing solely through traditional flagship specifications, it attempts to differentiate itself through screen proportions, software optimization, battery capacity and a slim, lightweight design.

If Huawei can make the 16:9.5 display genuinely more useful for everyday tasks without compromising handling comfort, the Pura X View could offer a compelling alternative to the increasingly similar designs found across the mainstream smartphone market.

The post Huawei Pura X View Confirmed With Kirin 9030S, 16:9.5 Wide Display and 7,000mAh Battery appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

According to Chinese tech blogger Dingjiao Digital, the Xiaomi 18 Fold has recorded a notably strong response during its early deposit reservation phase. Xiaomi has yet to officially launch the device, but the reported reservation figures suggest that the company’s new foldable is already generating considerable attention.

A Wider Foldable With a Different Design Philosophy

Xiaomi 18 Fold is expected to represent a different direction from the company’s previous MIX Fold series.

Rather than following the relatively narrow proportions commonly found on large foldable smartphones, the new model reportedly adopts a wider internal display designed to make the unfolded screen more practical for everyday content consumption.

The wider aspect ratio could be particularly beneficial when watching movies and other widescreen video content. By moving closer to conventional cinematic proportions, the display may reduce the amount of unused black space around video and provide a larger effective viewing area.

In other words, the goal is not simply to make the unfolded screen physically larger. Xiaomi appears to be focusing on making that additional screen area more useful.

A Better Format for Reading and Multitasking

The wider display could also make the Xiaomi 18 Fold more comfortable for reading.

A broader screen allows more characters to appear on each line, creating a layout that can feel closer to reading a physical book. News articles, long-form webpages and e-books could therefore benefit from the additional horizontal space.

The format may also improve multitasking.

A large, wide internal panel provides more room for split-screen applications, allowing users to view documents while editing them, compare information across two apps, or keep communication tools open alongside productivity software.

This could give the Xiaomi 18 Fold an advantage over conventional smartphones, where multitasking is often constrained by the narrow display.

Xring O3 Could Be the Phone’s Biggest Hardware Highlight

The other major attraction is expected to be the processor.

The Xiaomi 18 Fold is reportedly set to debut with Xiaomi’s Xring O3, the company’s second high-end flagship system-on-chip developed in-house.

The chip is said to use a 3nm manufacturing process, while its transistor count reportedly rises to approximately 24 billion, compared with around 19 billion on its predecessor.

The increase in transistor density points toward a substantial generational upgrade, although real-world performance will ultimately depend on CPU architecture, GPU design, software optimization and thermal management.

Xring O3 Reportedly Breaks the 5 Million-Point Benchmark Barrier

According to Xiaomi laboratory data cited in the report, the Xring O3 achieved an AnTuTu score of 5,228,014.

If independently verified, that would make it the first mobile flagship platform to surpass the five-million-point mark in the benchmark.

The chip is also reported to have reached a Geekbench 6 multi-core score of 15,221, representing a claimed 60% improvement over the previous generation.

Benchmark numbers should naturally be treated with some caution until the processor and final retail hardware can be tested independently. Results can vary depending on firmware, temperature, power settings and testing conditions.

Nevertheless, the reported figures suggest that Xiaomi is positioning the Xring O3 as a genuine flagship-class platform rather than simply a minor upgrade.

Efficiency Could Be Just as Important as Performance

Raw benchmark performance is only part of the equation for a foldable smartphone.

Foldable devices have to balance performance with heat generation, battery life and sustained workloads inside a relatively constrained chassis.

Xiaomi reportedly claims that the Xring O3 maintains strong efficiency in low- and medium-load scenarios, with daily-use power consumption reduced by around 25% compared with the previous generation.

If those improvements carry over to retail hardware, the combination of higher performance and lower everyday power consumption could be particularly valuable on a foldable.

Users could potentially benefit from faster application processing without having to sacrifice as much battery life during routine tasks.

Why the Xiaomi 18 Fold Is Generating Attention

The early reservation figures are only one part of the story.

The Xiaomi 18 Fold appears to combine two major changes: a wider foldable form factor and a new generation of Xiaomi’s in-house flagship silicon.

The wider screen addresses one of the biggest practical criticisms of conventional foldables: having a large display does not necessarily make the device more convenient if the aspect ratio remains awkward for everyday content.

By giving video, reading and multitasking more natural proportions, Xiaomi could be attempting to make the unfolded screen useful for more situations rather than treating it simply as a larger smartphone display.

At the same time, the Xring O3 gives the device a hardware story that goes beyond its folding mechanism.

Strong Expectations, But Official Details Still Matter

The reported response to the blind reservation period suggests that the Xiaomi 18 Fold has already captured substantial consumer interest.

However, reservation figures and leaked specifications do not necessarily translate into final sales.

Important details—including the exact display specifications, hinge design, camera system, battery capacity, charging technology, thickness, weight, pricing and global availability—will determine how competitive the device ultimately becomes.

For now, the Xiaomi 18 Fold looks increasingly interesting on paper.

If Xiaomi can combine the reported wide-screen design with the Xring O3’s claimed performance and efficiency improvements, the device could offer a noticeably different interpretation of what a large foldable smartphone should be.

The combination of a more practical unfolded display and Xiaomi’s latest in-house flagship chip may explain why the new foldable is reportedly attracting more early attention than the company’s previous models.

The post Xiaomi 18 Fold Reportedly Gains Strong Early Interest Ahead of Launch With Xring O3 Chip appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

Chinese tipster Digital Chat Station has reportedly revealed several specifications of an upcoming tablet from an unnamed manufacturer. Based on discussions among users in the comments, the device is widely believed to be the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro, although Xiaomi has not officially confirmed its identity.

According to the leak, the tablet is expected to feature a 12.5-inch LCD panel with a 3.2K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. If accurate, the display would target users who want a balance between sharp image quality and smooth motion for gaming, media consumption, and productivity.

Under the hood, the rumored tablet is said to use Qualcomm’s SM8845 platform, which is believed to correspond to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. This would put the device firmly in the flagship-performance segment and potentially make it one of the more powerful Android tablets in its class.

11,000mAh Battery and 67W Charging

Battery capacity could be another major selling point.

The leaked specifications reportedly include an 11,000mAh battery, paired with support for 67W fast charging. A battery of this size would give the tablet considerable endurance, particularly for users who frequently stream video, play games, or use demanding productivity applications.

The 67W charging system should also help reduce the amount of time required to recharge such a large battery, although real-world charging speeds will depend on Xiaomi’s final implementation.

Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max Is Also Coming

The rumored Pad 9 Pro should not be confused with the higher-end Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max, which Xiaomi has already confirmed for a September launch.

The Pro Max is expected to occupy a more premium position within Xiaomi’s tablet lineup. The company has announced that it will be the first tablet to use Xiaomi’s Xring O3 AI flagship processor, which Xiaomi describes as its most powerful professional productivity tablet platform to date.

The Xring O3 reportedly uses a 10-core all-large-core CPU architecture, consisting of six ultra-large cores and four large cores. Its peak clock speed is said to reach 4.35GHz.

According to Xiaomi’s claims, the processor can achieve a multi-core benchmark score above 15,000, representing a claimed 60% performance increase. Its GPU is reportedly a 16-core G2-Ultra NX design with support for third-generation ray tracing. Xiaomi also claims an 85% increase in graphics performance while reducing power consumption by 64%.

Despite announcing the Pro Max, Xiaomi has yet to reveal the tablet’s final design.

Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Brings Flagship-Class Hardware

The rumored Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro is expected to rely on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, which was introduced in November last year.

The chip is manufactured using a 3nm process and features Qualcomm’s third-generation Oryon CPU architecture.

Its reported configuration includes two prime cores clocked at up to 3.8GHz and six performance cores reaching 3.32GHz.

For a tablet, this level of processing power could provide plenty of headroom for demanding applications, multitasking, gaming, and AI-assisted workloads.

Where Does the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Fit?

If the leaked specifications are accurate, Xiaomi may be preparing two distinctly positioned high-end tablets.

Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro could focus on combining a high-refresh-rate LCD panel, Snapdragon performance, long battery life, and fast charging in a relatively mainstream flagship tablet.

The Pad 9 Pro Max, meanwhile, appears to be aimed at users who want Xiaomi’s most advanced tablet hardware and professional productivity capabilities, particularly with the introduction of the Xring O3 platform.

However, it is important to treat the Pad 9 Pro specifications as unconfirmed information for now. Xiaomi has not officially announced the tablet, and details such as its design, software features, memory configurations, pricing, and launch date remain unknown.

If the reported 12.5-inch 3.2K 144Hz display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, 11,000mAh battery, and 67W charging specifications prove accurate, the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro could become an interesting option for users looking for flagship Android tablet performance without moving directly to the larger and more premium Pro Max model.

The post Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Rumored to Feature 12.5-Inch 3.2K 144Hz LCD and Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

Xiaomi has officially introduced Redmi Note 17 Pro Max 5G which belongs to Redmi Note series in Japan, marking the company’s first smartphone to feature a battery with a capacity of 10,000mAh. The phone will be available with an early-bird price starting at ¥69,980, with the promotional offer running through October 14.

At the current exchange rate, that works out to roughly RMB 2,959, although the actual price in other markets could differ.

The enormous battery is easily the phone’s headline feature, but Xiaomi has also equipped the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max with fast charging, a high-refresh-rate AMOLED display, a Qualcomm processor, a multi-camera setup, and high-level dust and water resistance.

10,000mAh Battery With 100W Charging

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max packs a 10,000mAh battery, making it one of the more extreme battery-focused smartphones in its class.

Xiaomi pairs the large cell with 100W wired fast charging, helping reduce the amount of time required to refill such a large battery.

The phone also supports 27W wired reverse charging. This allows the handset to provide emergency power to other compatible devices, effectively giving the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max some of the functionality of a portable power bank.

For users who frequently travel, spend long periods outdoors, or simply don’t want to worry about charging their phone every day, the battery capacity like 10,000mAh battery phones could be one of the device’s biggest advantages.

Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 Powers the Phone

Under the hood, the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max uses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 5 mobile platform.

It isn’t positioned as an ultra-high-end processor, but it should provide a reasonable balance between everyday performance and power consumption. That balance is particularly important for a phone carrying a 10,000mAh battery, where efficiency can have a major impact on practical endurance.

The large battery also gives Xiaomi more room to support demanding activities such as video streaming, navigation, gaming, and mobile photography without forcing users to constantly search for a charger.

6.83-Inch 1.5K AMOLED Display

The phone features a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.

The combination should provide a smoother interface while offering sharper visuals than a conventional Full HD+ panel.

A 120Hz refresh rate is particularly noticeable when scrolling through websites, navigating menus, and switching between applications. Meanwhile, the AMOLED panel can deliver deeper blacks and stronger contrast than typical LCD screens.

The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and the phone has reportedly passed a 3-meter drop-resistance certification.

That gives the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max a stronger durability proposition than many mainstream phones that focus primarily on appearance.

50MP Main Camera and 32MP Selfie Camera

On the back, Xiaomi equips the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max with a 50MP primary camera accompanied by an 8MP secondary sensor.

The front camera has a 32MP resolution, giving the phone a relatively high-resolution selfie camera for its category.

The camera system isn’t being positioned as an Ultra-level imaging platform. Instead, the configuration appears designed to provide a capable everyday photography experience while keeping the phone focused on its larger strengths, particularly battery life and durability.

Android 16 and Long-Term Security Support

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max ships with Android 16, joining a growing group of Android 16 phones.

More importantly, Xiaomi says the device will receive up to six years of security updates.

Long-term software support is becoming increasingly important as consumers keep smartphones for longer periods. A device that continues receiving security patches several years after purchase can remain useful well beyond its initial upgrade cycle.

The six-year commitment could therefore become an important selling point for buyers who prioritize longevity.

Surprisingly Slim Despite the Huge Battery

A 10,000mAh battery normally suggests a thick and heavy smartphone, but Xiaomi has attempted to keep the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max relatively manageable.

The handset measures just 8.57mm thick and weighs approximately 229.5 grams.

That is still heavier than many conventional smartphones, but considering the enormous battery capacity, the dimensions are relatively restrained.

This may be one of the most impressive aspects of the phone’s design. Xiaomi has managed to fit a battery that is roughly twice the capacity of many mainstream smartphones into a chassis that remains under 9mm thick.

IP66 and IP68 Protection

Durability is another area where the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max takes a more serious approach.

The phone carries IP66 and IP68 dust- and water-resistance ratings, providing substantially more protection against environmental exposure than basic splash-resistant designs.

This should make the phone more comfortable to use in challenging everyday situations, including rainy weather and dusty environments.

However, an IP rating should not be interpreted as unlimited waterproofing. Users should still follow Xiaomi’s official guidance regarding water exposure and charging after contact with moisture.

Cloud Blush Color Changes Under Sunlight

Xiaomi is also giving the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max a distinctive finish called Cloud Blush.

At first glance, the color appears close to a soft cloud-white shade. Under sunlight, however, the surface reportedly shifts toward a warm pink-orange tone.

This photochromic-style effect allows the back panel to change its appearance according to the surrounding light.

It is a small design detail, but it gives the phone something visually different from the increasingly common black, silver, and blue flagship finishes.

Redmi 17 4G Launches Alongside It

Xiaomi also introduced a more affordable model in Japan alongside the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max: the Redmi 17 4G.

The entry-level configuration with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage starts at ¥29,980, equivalent to roughly RMB 1,268 at the current exchange rate.

The Redmi 17 4G features a much larger 6.9-inch 720p+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate and is powered by the MediaTek Helio G91 Ultra platform.

Its camera setup includes a 50MP rear main camera and an 8MP front-facing camera.

Despite its lower price, the Redmi 17 4G also carries a substantial 7,500mAh battery and supports 45W fast charging.

This gives Xiaomi two very different propositions for the Japanese market: an affordable large-screen phone with a big battery and a more advanced Pro Max model aimed at users who want maximum endurance without moving to a bulky rugged-phone design.

Final Thoughts

The Redmi Note 17 Pro Max 5G stands out primarily because Xiaomi has made battery capacity its central design priority.

A 10,000mAh battery, 100W charging, and 27W reverse charging give the phone a level of power capacity that should appeal strongly to travelers, heavy users, and anyone who dislikes frequent charging.

At the same time, the phone doesn’t appear to sacrifice the rest of the experience. It combines a 6.83-inch 1.5K 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 6 Gen 5, 50MP main camera, Android 16, six years of security updates, and IP66/IP68 protection.

The 229.5-gram weight is certainly noticeable, but the 8.57mm thickness makes the overall package more impressive given the size of the battery.

With an early-bird starting price of ¥69,980 in Japan through October 14, the Redmi Note 17 Pro Max could become an interesting choice for buyers who value battery endurance and long-term usability over having the most powerful processor or most advanced camera system.

The bigger question is whether Xiaomi will bring the same configuration and pricing strategy to additional international markets. For now, its Japanese debut makes one thing clear: 10,000mAh batteries are no longer limited to niche power-focused phones.

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