The comparison is particularly interesting because neither company is simply trying to make the physical fold disappear. Instead, Apple and Samsung are using different combinations of display materials, structural support and reflection control to make the crease less distracting during everyday use.

iPhone Duo and Galaxy Z Fold8 Look Similar Head-On

A short comparison video from technology journalist Joanna Stern provides a useful visual test of the two foldables.

When both displays are viewed directly from the front, the center fold on the iPhone Duo is difficult to distinguish. The Galaxy Z Fold8 also looks relatively smooth from a straight-on viewing angle.

The difference becomes easier to notice when the phones are tilted toward a light source. Reflections running across the center of the flexible panels can reveal the fold more clearly, showing that crease visibility depends heavily on lighting and viewing angle.

This is an important distinction. A phone can have a physically noticeable folding area while still appearing almost flat during normal viewing. Conversely, a strong reflection can make a relatively subtle crease appear much more obvious in a photograph or video.

Why the iPhone Duo’s Crease Can Be Difficult to See

Apple has placed considerable emphasis on the appearance of the iPhone Duo’s inner display.

The 7.6-inch folding screen uses a nano-texture treatment designed to reduce glare and control reflections. That matters because reflected light is one of the main reasons a fold becomes easier to see.

When the display is viewed under bright indoor lighting or near a window, the surface can reflect surrounding objects and light sources. A surface treatment that reduces those reflections can therefore make the central fold appear less prominent.

However, it is important not to confuse reduced crease visibility with a completely crease-free display.

The iPhone Duo still uses a flexible panel that repeatedly bends around a hinge. The nano-texture surface can influence how the fold looks to the eye, but it does not remove the underlying mechanical challenge of repeatedly folding a large OLED panel.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Uses Both Structure and Reflection Control

Samsung approaches the problem somewhat differently with the Galaxy Z Fold8. Foldable display technology continues to evolve rapidly, with manufacturers experimenting with new hinge designs, screen materials, and display structures to make foldable phones thinner, more durable, and less noticeable when unfolded.

The Fold8 uses a reinforced internal structure that includes titanium components around the folding display. This construction is intended to provide support to the flexible panel while maintaining the thin profile expected from a modern foldable phone.

Samsung also uses an anti-reflective treatment on the main display.

That combination is significant because the crease has two different aspects: the physical deformation of the flexible panel and the way light reflects from that deformation.

The structural layer addresses the first problem, while the anti-reflective surface helps with the second.

As a result, Samsung’s strategy is not simply about hiding the crease. It is about controlling both the physical support of the folding panel and how visible that fold becomes under different lighting conditions.

iPhone Duo vs Galaxy Z Fold8: Crease Comparison

The table highlights why a simple “which phone has no crease?” comparison can be misleading.

Neither device should be judged solely from one photograph. Lighting, viewing angle, screen brightness and the content displayed on the panel can all change how prominent the fold appears.

Is the iPhone Duo Actually Creaseless?

The answer is more complicated than the marketing impression may suggest.

From a normal straight-on viewing position, the iPhone Duo’s center fold can be extremely difficult to notice. That gives Apple a strong advantage in perceived display smoothness.

But the crease can become more apparent when light hits the screen at an angle.

This is also true of the Galaxy Z Fold8. A reflection traveling across the fold can make the center of the screen easier to identify even when the display looks nearly flat from directly in front.

Therefore, it is more accurate to describe the iPhone Duo as having a less visually obvious crease rather than claiming that Apple has completely eliminated the physical fold.

That distinction will become even more important after long-term use, when repeated folding cycles provide a better indication of how each display ages.

The Real Difference May Appear in Everyday Lighting

For most users, the more useful question is not whether either phone has a mathematically perfect flat screen.

Instead, the question is:

How often will you actually notice the crease while using the phone?

This depends heavily on the environment.

Under soft indoor lighting, both displays can look remarkably clean. Outdoors or near strong light sources, reflections can expose the folding area more clearly.

The iPhone Duo’s nano-texture approach could give it an advantage in situations where glare is the main reason the crease becomes noticeable. Samsung’s anti-reflective technology serves a similar purpose, while its reinforced internal structure focuses on supporting the folding panel itself.

This means the two companies are solving related problems from slightly different directions.

What the Early Comparison Does Not Tell Us

A short video can demonstrate visual crease visibility, but it cannot establish long-term durability.

It does not show how either display will look after thousands of folding cycles, how the hinge will age, or whether the appearance of the crease changes after months of daily use.

That is particularly important for the iPhone Duo because it represents Apple’s first generation of foldable iPhone hardware.

Samsung has considerably more experience with foldable phones, giving the Galaxy Z Fold8 the benefit of multiple generations of hinge and display development.

A proper long-term comparison will therefore need to examine more than the appearance of the crease on a brand-new device.

iPhone Duo vs Galaxy Z Fold8: Early Verdict

The early comparison suggests that both Apple and Samsung have made substantial progress in reducing the visual impact of the fold.

The iPhone Duo appears particularly impressive when viewed straight on, where its central crease can be difficult to distinguish. Its nano-texture display also gives Apple another way to control reflections that can draw attention to the fold.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 takes a more established approach by combining structural reinforcement with an anti-reflective display surface. Its crease can still become visible at certain angles, but Samsung’s design shows how far the company’s foldable technology has evolved.

For now, the most accurate conclusion is not that one phone has completely eliminated the crease. Instead, both devices are becoming better at making the crease less noticeable during normal use.

The iPhone Duo may have the visual advantage in some lighting conditions, but a longer hands-on test will be needed to determine whether that advantage remains after extended daily folding.

For buyers choosing between Apple’s first foldable iPhone and Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Fold, the crease is therefore only one part of the decision. Display quality, hinge durability, software, camera performance, battery life and overall device thickness will ultimately matter just as much.

The post iPhone Duo vs Galaxy Z Fold8: Which Foldable Has the Less Visible Crease? appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The iPhone 18 Pro starts at 9,999 yuan in China, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max begins at 10,999 yuan. Both models will open for pre-orders at 8 PM on September 12, with sales starting September 18.

Four Colors and a Refined Pro Design

The iPhone 18 Pro series is available in four finishes. Apple retains familiar black and silver options while introducing Glacier Blue and Burgundy Red, giving the new Pro models a more distinctive appearance.

The overall design remains closely related to the previous generation, but Apple has made another change to the front display area. The Dynamic Island has been reduced in size, allowing Apple to maintain its existing interactive features while taking up less screen space.

The iPhone 18 Pro features a 6.3-inch display, while the larger iPhone 18 Pro Max comes with a 6.9-inch screen. This keeps the two models clearly separated by size while maintaining the same general design language.

2nm A20 Pro Chip Brings a Major Performance Upgrade

The biggest change inside the iPhone 18 Pro series is Apple’s new A20 Pro chip, which is built using a 2nm manufacturing process.

The processor uses a six-core CPU configuration consisting of two performance cores and four efficiency cores. Apple says the performance cores can deliver up to a 20% improvement over the previous generation.

Graphics performance also gets a significant upgrade. The A20 Pro moves to a seven-core GPU architecture, with peak GPU performance reportedly increasing by up to 40%.

The chip’s AI capabilities have also been expanded. Apple equips the A20 Pro with two Neural Engine groups containing a combined 32 cores, along with a new generation of neural accelerators. Eight-bit floating-point processing can reach twice the previous speed, while memory bandwidth increases by 50%.

These improvements are particularly relevant as on-device AI becomes a larger part of the smartphone experience. More processing capacity can help Apple handle demanding AI workloads without relying entirely on cloud-based services.

New Vapor Chamber Helps Sustain Performance

Higher peak performance is only useful if a phone can maintain it under sustained workloads. To address this, Apple has added a new vapor chamber cooling system to the iPhone 18 Pro series.

The improved thermal design works alongside the A20 Pro to manage heat during demanding tasks such as gaming, video processing and intensive AI workloads.

Apple says sustained performance is up to 40% higher than the previous generation and can reach roughly double the level of the iPhone 16 Pro series.

That makes thermal management one of the more important changes in the new generation. Instead of focusing solely on short benchmark bursts, Apple appears to be placing greater emphasis on maintaining high performance over longer periods.

iPhone 18 Pro Gets Its First Variable-Aperture Main Camera

Camera hardware is another major highlight of the iPhone 18 Pro series.

The phones feature a 48-megapixel Fusion main camera, but this generation adds something new: a variable aperture.

The lens uses a six-blade aperture mechanism with four selectable aperture levels. This allows the camera to adjust how much light reaches the sensor according to the shooting environment.

In practical terms, variable aperture gives the main camera more flexibility than a fixed-aperture design. It can help balance light intake in darker scenes while also providing greater control in situations such as portraits and backlit photography.

The addition is particularly notable because Apple is bringing a traditionally camera-focused hardware feature to its mainstream Pro smartphone system.

Up to 30 Hours of Battery Life

Battery endurance has also received a substantial upgrade.

The iPhone 18 Pro is rated for up to 24 hours of battery life, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max can reach 30 hours.

Charging has been improved as well. Apple says the new models can reach 50% battery capacity in 15 minutes, giving users a faster way to recover power when they are short on time.

The combination of a more efficient 2nm chip, improved thermal management and increased battery endurance could make the Pro Max particularly attractive to users who prioritize long daily usage.

iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max China Pricing

Apple is offering both models with four storage configurations in China.

iPhone 18 Pro

• 256GB: 9,999 yuan
• 512GB: 11,999 yuan
• 1TB: 15,499 yuan
• 2TB: 20,499 yuan

iPhone 18 Pro Max

• 256GB: 10,999 yuan
• 512GB: 12,999 yuan
• 1TB: 16,499 yuan
• 2TB: 21,499 yuan

Pre-orders will begin at 8 PM on September 12, while the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will officially go on sale on September 18.

What Makes the iPhone 18 Pro Series Different?

The iPhone 18 Pro generation is more than a routine processor refresh. The combination of the 2nm A20 Pro chip, new vapor chamber cooling, variable-aperture main camera and longer battery life gives Apple several hardware upgrades to highlight.

The variable-aperture camera is arguably the most visible photography change, while the new cooling system could have a bigger impact on users who regularly play demanding games or run intensive applications.

At the same time, the 9,999-yuan starting price for the iPhone 18 Pro keeps Apple’s premium Pro lineup firmly in the flagship segment. For buyers considering an upgrade, the most meaningful question may be whether the improved sustained performance, camera flexibility and endurance justify the higher price compared with the previous generation.

The post iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Launch With 2nm A20 Pro Chip and Variable Aperture Camera appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The camera setup is designed to offer more flexibility when taking selfies, framing shots, and previewing images. When the phone is partially folded, users can take advantage of a waist-level shooting position without having to bend down to check the composition. The outer display can also serve as a convenient preview screen, giving users more freedom when positioning the phone.

Xiaomi 18 Fold Uses a Leica Triple-Camera System

The Xiaomi 18 Fold is expected to feature a Leica-branded professional triple-camera system, with the camera hardware focusing on high-resolution photography and different focal lengths.

Xiaomi says its Leica optical Summilux lenses are designed to deliver clean and detailed images, while the combination of three cameras gives the foldable phone greater flexibility across different shooting scenarios.

The reported camera configuration includes:

• 200MP Leica main camera with a 1/1.56-inch large sensor
• 50MP Leica periscope telephoto camera with 3.5x optical zoom
• 50MP Leica ultra-wide camera designed for wider scenes and group photography

This combination gives the Xiaomi 18 Fold a more versatile focal-length range, allowing users to switch between standard, zoomed and ultra-wide perspectives without relying entirely on digital cropping.

Two Shooting Forms Make the Foldable Design More Useful

One of the more interesting aspects of the Xiaomi 18 Fold is how the camera system interacts with the foldable body.

When the phone is closed, the camera interface can reportedly use a large 4:3 framing area. This form may be particularly useful when users want a more conventional camera-style shooting experience while keeping the device compact.

When the phone is opened, the external display can provide a real-time high-definition preview. This could make unusual shooting angles easier to compose and may also be useful for self-portraits or group photos.

The foldable structure therefore serves more than a display purpose. It can change how the phone is physically positioned during photography, giving users additional options that are difficult to achieve with a standard slab-style smartphone.

PC-Class Software Adds Another Photography Tool

Xiaomi is also positioning the Xiaomi 18 Fold as a device for more than simply capturing photos.

The company says the phone will support PC-class professional software, allowing users to work on their images and other creative content directly on the larger foldable display.

This could be particularly useful for photographers and content creators who want to make quick adjustments without immediately transferring files to a computer. The larger screen should also provide more workspace than a conventional smartphone when editing photos or handling other creative tasks.

Xiaomi 18 Fold Camera Specifications at a Glance

The currently revealed camera information can be summarized as follows:

What Makes the Xiaomi 18 Fold Camera Setup Different?

The main appeal of the Xiaomi 18 Fold’s camera system is not simply the high megapixel count. Its foldable structure creates additional ways to position the phone and preview a shot.

The combination of a 200MP main camera, periscope telephoto lens and ultra-wide camera also gives the device coverage across several common photography scenarios. Meanwhile, the two-form shooting experience could make the foldable design more practical for people who frequently take selfies, low-angle shots, or photos from unusual perspectives.

Xiaomi’s approach suggests that the 18 Fold is being designed not only as a large-screen foldable phone, but also as a more flexible mobile photography tool. More details about its camera performance, image processing and final hardware specifications should become clearer when Xiaomi officially introduces the device.

The post Xiaomi 18 Fold Camera Features Revealed: Dual Forms and Multiple Shooting Perspectives appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The combination is aimed at users who want to run large language models locally rather than relying entirely on cloud-based AI services. According to CHUWI, the UniBox AI495 Pro can handle local LLMs with up to 300 billion parameters using 4-bit quantization, putting it among the more ambitious compact AI workstation designs currently being introduced.

Ryzen AI MAX+ PRO 495 Powers the UniBox AI495 Pro

The main highlight of the CHUWI UniBox AI495 Pro is its AMD Ryzen AI MAX+ PRO 495 processor. The chip uses AMD’s Zen 5 architecture and features 16 CPU cores and 32 threads, with a maximum boost clock of up to 5.2GHz.

The processor is paired with AMD Radeon 8065S graphics based on the RDNA 3.5 architecture. The integrated GPU provides 40 graphics cores and a maximum graphics frequency of 3,000MHz.

For AI workloads, CHUWI lists up to 131 TOPS of overall platform AI performance, including up to 55 TOPS from the XDNA 2 NPU. This also makes the system suitable for Copilot+ PC-class AI applications and other workloads that can take advantage of dedicated neural processing.

Up to 192GB of Unified Memory

Memory capacity is another major feature of the UniBox AI495 Pro.

The system can be configured with up to 192GB of LPDDR5x-8533 unified memory using a 256-bit memory interface. CHUWI lists memory bandwidth of up to 273GB/s, while as much as 160GB can be allocated as VRAM for graphics and AI workloads.

This large shared memory pool is particularly important for local AI applications. Instead of being limited by the relatively small VRAM capacity found on many conventional graphics cards, compatible AI workloads can access a much larger portion of system memory.

CHUWI says this configuration enables the UniBox AI495 Pro to run 300B-parameter local LLMs at 4-bit quantization, although actual performance will vary depending on the model, quantization method, software stack and workload.

Compact 2.9-Liter AI Workstation

Despite its hardware capabilities, the UniBox AI495 Pro maintains a relatively compact form factor.

The mini workstation measures 209.6 × 209.6 × 67mm and has a volume of approximately 2.9 liters. CHUWI also gives the system an X-Frame-inspired exterior design that distinguishes it from more conventional mini PCs.

The small chassis could make the UniBox AI495 Pro an interesting option for developers, researchers and power users who need substantial local computing capability without moving to a full-size desktop workstation.

Radeon 8065S Graphics for Gaming and AI

The integrated Radeon 8065S GPU uses AMD’s RDNA 3.5 graphics architecture and features 40 graphics cores.

CHUWI positions the GPU as capable of delivering smooth 1080p gaming performance in demanding titles. The company also states that the graphics solution can outperform an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 in certain workloads, although such comparisons should be treated carefully because real-world results depend heavily on the game, power limits, memory configuration and testing conditions.

More importantly for the UniBox AI495 Pro, the GPU can share the system’s large unified memory pool. This gives AI applications considerably more memory headroom than typical integrated graphics solutions.

Designed for Large Local AI Models

Local AI is one of the main reasons the UniBox AI495 Pro stands out.

CHUWI says the system can run models containing up to 300 billion parameters when using 4-bit quantization. Large models normally require substantial memory capacity, making the 192GB configuration particularly relevant for developers experimenting with local inference.

The system could therefore appeal to AI developers working with large language models, coding assistants, private AI tools and other applications where keeping data on the local machine is preferred.

However, parameter capacity should not be confused with inference speed. A system may be able to load a large model into memory while still delivering relatively modest token-generation performance depending on the model architecture and software optimization.

Fast Connectivity and Expansion

The UniBox AI495 Pro also provides a broad selection of connectivity options for a workstation of this size.

The system includes dual 10Gbps Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. For high-speed external devices, it features two USB4 ports supporting speeds of up to 40Gbps, along with an OCuLink interface.

Storage is handled through three M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 ×4 slots, with CHUWI listing up to a 2TB SSD configuration. This gives users room to expand local storage for large AI models, datasets, applications and games.

A 240W power adapter is included, with the system rated for a 20V/12A input.

CHUWI UniBox AI495 Pro vs. UniBox AI395

CHUWI is also introducing the UniBox AI395, giving the series a second option based on AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 platform.

The AI495 Pro uses the Ryzen AI MAX+ PRO 495 with a 5.2GHz boost clock, while the AI395 uses the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with a maximum boost clock of 5.1GHz.

*CHUWI’s stated figures depend on model architecture, quantization and software configuration.

Pricing and Availability

CHUWI has not yet announced the official UniBox AI495 Pro price or retail availability. The company says pricing and availability details will be revealed at a later date.

With its combination of the Ryzen AI MAX+ PRO 495, Radeon 8065S graphics and up to 192GB of unified memory, the UniBox AI495 Pro is clearly targeting users who need more local AI capacity than a typical mini PC can provide.

The most interesting aspect is not simply its compact size, but the amount of memory available to AI workloads. If CHUWI can deliver competitive real-world performance while maintaining reasonable power consumption and pricing, the UniBox AI495 Pro could become an appealing alternative to larger desktop workstations for local AI development and experimentation.

For now, however, the final price, detailed performance benchmarks and retail availability will be key factors in determining how competitive this new CHUWI AI mini workstation will be.

The post CHUWI UniBox AI495 Pro Unveiled with Ryzen AI MAX+ PRO 495 and 192GB Memory appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

With this update, Super XiaoAI can carry a conversation from one device to another, so users do not need to repeat their questions or restart a task after switching screens. The feature is part of Xiaomi’s broader effort to connect its phones and PCs through a more seamless AI experience.

The cross-device functionality goes beyond simply syncing chat history. If a computer is not nearby, users can reportedly ask their smartphone to find a file with a voice command. Tasks started on one device can also be continued from another device, making the assistant more useful across Xiaomi’s broader hardware ecosystem.

Super XiaoAI Becomes More Connected Across Devices

The biggest change in this HyperOS 4 update is the way Super XiaoAI handles tasks across multiple devices.

For example, a user could begin interacting with the assistant on a phone and later switch to a computer while continuing the same conversation. Instead of treating each device as a separate AI terminal, Xiaomi is moving toward a more connected experience in which tasks and conversations can follow the user.

The ability to search for files remotely through a phone could also be useful when a computer is unavailable. Rather than manually opening different applications or searching through folders, users can simply issue a command through Super XiaoAI.

Xiaomi also says that tasks initiated on a smartphone can be continued after switching devices, suggesting that cross-device task continuity is becoming a major part of the HyperOS ecosystem.

HyperOS 4 Super XiaoAI vs Traditional AI Assistants

Super XiaoAI Has Been Expanding Since HyperOS 2

This is not the first time Xiaomi has positioned Super XiaoAI as a system-level AI assistant.

At the launch of HyperOS 2 in October 2024, Xiaomi introduced Super XiaoAI as an AI assistant designed for its broader ecosystem. At the time, the assistant could help users remember important information such as identification documents and schedules.

It also introduced intelligent screen extraction, allowing information displayed on the screen to be recognized and stored locally, with users able to delete the stored information when needed.

Xiaomi promoted the assistant as a way to simplify complicated workflows and provide access to AI functions across multiple devices.

Expert Mode Brings More Autonomous Task Handling

The latest cross-device announcement follows another Super XiaoAI update revealed by Xiaomi yesterday.

The company announced that Super XiaoAI Expert Mode is now available. The mode is designed to handle more complicated requests by planning tasks automatically and completing operations across different applications in a single workflow.

Instead of requiring users to manually open one application after another, the assistant can reportedly organize the steps needed to complete a complex task and carry them out together.

Xiaomi is also expanding Super XiaoAI’s role across its broader human-car-home ecosystem. With a single voice command, users can coordinate supported functions across connected devices and services.

Another feature allows the assistant to remember recurring tasks and provide reminders when they are due, potentially making it more useful for routine activities.

HyperOS 4 Is Moving Toward a More Unified AI Experience

With HyperOS 4, Xiaomi appears to be placing greater emphasis on making AI a common layer connecting its phones, computers and other smart devices.

Conversation synchronization, cross-device task continuation, remote file searches and Expert Mode all point toward the same goal: reducing the amount of manual switching users need to do between devices and applications.

The real value of these HyperOS 4 features will depend on how reliably Super XiaoAI Xiaomi AI features handles cross-device tasks in everyday use and how widely the functions are supported across Xiaomi devices and connected services. If Xiaomi can deliver smooth conversation continuity, file access, and task handoff between phones and PCs, Super XiaoAI could become a more practical part of the Xiaomi ecosystem. For now, the latest HyperOS 4 updates suggest that Xiaomi is making cross-device AI a key focus of its software strategy.

The post Xiaomi HyperOS 4 Adds Cross-Device Chat Sync for Super XiaoAI 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.

Can Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Elite finally make a Windows tablet fast enough to compete with traditional x86 laptops without giving up battery life?

We’ve recently had the opportunity to test the new Surface Pro (13-inch), Microsoft’s latest premium 2-in-1 powered by Qualcomm’s newest Snapdragon platform. Like last year’s Surface Laptop (13-inch), this year’s Surface Pro continues Microsoft’s transition toward ARM-based Windows PCs. Microsoft also retains its somewhat unusual naming convention, officially branding the device as “Surface Pro, 13-inch” with a comma separating the product name and screen size—a naming style that’s become uniquely Microsoft.

While the processor architecture has evolved, the Surface Pro continues to showcase everything that has made Microsoft’s flagship Windows devices stand out over the years: premium craftsmanship, elegant industrial design, and exceptional versatility.

Its 13-inch 3:2 touchscreen is ideal for productivity, reading, note-taking, and creative work. Paired with the Surface Slim Pen 2, it offers an experience traditional laptops simply can’t match. Attach the optional magnetic keyboard cover, and the tablet instantly transforms into a full-featured laptop without compromising the familiar Windows workflow.

Microsoft also continues to emphasize sustainability. The new Surface Pro features:

• 100% recycled aluminum alloy enclosure
• 100% recycled rare-earth metals in its magnets
• 100% recycled cobalt in the battery

While these environmentally friendly materials may not be a deciding factor for every buyer, they reflect Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its hardware without sacrificing durability or build quality.

Because the Surface Pro is fundamentally a tablet, its hardware layout naturally differs from a conventional laptop.

The device features physical power and volume buttons on the side, much like a smartphone, making them easy to reach whether you’re holding the tablet in portrait or landscape orientation. Although this arrangement may seem unusual to laptop users, it quickly becomes intuitive in everyday use.

Connectivity is minimalist but modern.

In addition to Microsoft’s proprietary Surface Connect magnetic charging port, the tablet includes two identical USB4 Type-C ports. While two ports may sound limited compared to many laptops, both are fully featured and support:

• High-speed USB4 data transfer
• DisplayPort 1.4a video output
• Up to three external 4K displays at 60Hz
• USB Power Delivery fast charging up to 60W

In practical terms, the limited number of ports is offset by their impressive versatility.

Powering the new Surface Pro is Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon X2 Elite, the company’s flagship Windows processor for 2026.

Built on Qualcomm’s third-generation Oryon CPU architecture, the chip delivers substantial improvements in both performance and energy efficiency over its predecessor. It also integrates a next-generation Hexagon NPU capable of delivering up to 80 TOPS of AI computing performance, fully unlocking Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 AI+ PC features.

One interesting aspect of Microsoft’s AI ecosystem is that Windows 11 AI+ currently relies almost entirely on the CPU and NPU for on-device AI acceleration. Unlike desktop gaming PCs equipped with powerful discrete GPUs, these AI features cannot yet take advantage of dedicated graphics hardware. As a result, ARM-powered laptops like the new Surface Pro actually offer one of the best native experiences for Microsoft’s latest AI capabilities.

2. Design & Build Quality: A Classic Surface Experience, Refined

The latest Surface Pro (13-inch) continues Microsoft’s iconic 2-in-1 design philosophy. As the 12th-generation Surface Pro, it retains the familiar detachable tablet form factor while refining nearly every detail. The front is dominated by a clean 13-inch display with slim bezels, creating an elegant, distraction-free appearance. Users can operate it as a standalone tablet or attach the magnetic keyboard cover to enjoy a laptop-like experience within seconds.

Microsoft offers the device in Platinum, Black, and the new Sand Gold finish. Our review unit came in Sand Gold, which features a smooth matte texture that feels both premium and resistant to fingerprints. The polished Microsoft logo on the rear contrasts beautifully with the matte aluminum chassis, giving the tablet a refined yet understated aesthetic.

Although Windows 11 is primarily designed for landscape use, Microsoft has thoughtfully positioned the power and volume buttons along the side of the tablet, much like a modern smartphone. The layout feels natural whether you’re holding the Surface in portrait or landscape orientation, making everyday operation intuitive from the start.

Attach the Surface Pro Keyboard, unfold the built-in kickstand, and the tablet instantly transforms into a conventional notebook. Thanks to the rigid keyboard base and adjustable kickstand, the overall experience closely resembles that of a traditional laptop, making it equally suitable for productivity and entertainment.

Connectivity remains simple but highly capable. Both USB-C ports are identical and fully support USB4, enabling:

• High-speed data transfer
• DisplayPort video output
• Support for up to three 4K displays at 60Hz
• USB Power Delivery fast charging up to 60W
  
  

Despite offering only two ports, their versatility minimizes the need for additional connectivity options.

On the opposite side sits Microsoft’s proprietary Surface Connect magnetic charging port. At first glance it resembles an SD card slot, but the magnetic connector supports reversible attachment, allowing the charging cable to naturally route according to how the tablet is positioned.

The magnetic keyboard is another highlight of the Surface ecosystem.

By default, the front edge folds upward and magnetically attaches to the lower bezel of the display, creating a slight incline that provides a more ergonomic typing angle. Users can also unfold the keyboard completely to reveal the hidden storage and charging compartment for the Surface Slim Pen 2.

Microsoft continues its focus on sustainability by using an eco-friendly Alcantara-like material on the keyboard cover. The keyboard itself offers generously sized keys with comfortable travel and firm tactile feedback, making extended typing sessions surprisingly enjoyable. Although the touchpad is somewhat smaller than those found on conventional laptops, the touchscreen and stylus reduce the need to rely on it extensively.

The integrated kickstand remains one of the Surface Pro’s defining features.

Constructed entirely from metal, the hinge feels exceptionally sturdy while providing smooth, controlled resistance. It holds its position securely at virtually any angle and opens up to 165 degrees, allowing the Surface Pro to function equally well as a laptop, media viewer, digital sketchpad, or note-taking tablet.

Hidden beneath the kickstand is Microsoft’s removable SSD compartment. Our review unit is equipped with a 512GB SSD, giving users the option of replacing or upgrading the storage in the future—a rare feature among today’s premium ultra-portable devices.

The included 39W charger is remarkably compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel. Alternatively, users can charge the device via USB-C using any compatible power adapter, although 60W or higher is recommended to achieve the fastest charging speeds.

3. Performance & Software Compatibility: ARM Has Finally Come of Age

The new Surface Pro is powered by Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon X2 Elite, featuring the enhanced second-generation Oryon architecture.

The processor adopts a 12-core (6 Performance + 6 Efficiency) design manufactured on TSMC’s advanced 3nm process, delivering significant improvements in both computing performance and energy efficiency while maintaining impressively low power consumption.

One of the biggest concerns surrounding ARM-based Windows PCs has always been software compatibility. Fortunately, Microsoft’s Prism translation layer continues to mature.

Interestingly, the traditional x64 version of CPU-Z still runs correctly under emulation, although it can no longer accurately identify many ARM-specific processor details. Even so, benchmark testing completed successfully, producing the following results:

• Single-core: 327.7
• Multi-core: 5806.0

These scores demonstrate that translated x86 applications now operate reliably on Windows ARM.

Running the native ARM version of CPU-Z reveals the processor’s full capabilities.

Native benchmark scores increased substantially:

• Single-core: 450.6
• Multi-core: 7468.5

Compared with native execution, Microsoft’s translation layer incurs approximately 22% performance loss, a noticeable improvement over previous ARM generations and a perfectly acceptable compromise for legacy software compatibility.

The trend continues in 7-Zip compression testing.

The native ARM version completed the benchmark in 51.2 seconds, while the translated x64 version finished in 60.4 seconds, representing only about 16% performance loss during software emulation. Such results indicate that most traditional desktop applications can now run with surprisingly little overhead.

In Cinebench R20, running under x86 translation, the Snapdragon X2 Elite achieved:

• 511 cb (Single-Core)
• 3862 cb (Multi-Core)

The processor even outperformed AMD’s older Ryzen 7 1700X in multi-core performance while delivering substantially stronger single-core results—an impressive achievement considering its far lower power consumption.

The newer Cinebench R23 paints a similarly positive picture.

The Snapdragon X2 Elite scored:

• 1367 points (Single-Core)
• 10,099 points (Multi-Core)

Even while running translated x86 code, both single-threaded and multi-threaded performance surpassed Intel’s once-flagship Core i9-9880H, highlighting just how far Qualcomm’s Windows processors have evolved.

4. Graphics Performance: Integrated GPU Now Rivals Modern x86 Solutions

One of the most significant improvements in the Snapdragon X2 Elite isn’t just the CPU—it’s the integrated graphics processor.

The chip features Qualcomm’s latest Adreno X2-85 GPU, representing a substantial leap over the previous generation. While many benchmark applications still require x86 emulation on Windows ARM, Microsoft’s Prism translation layer has matured enough that most graphics benchmarks now run reliably, allowing us to evaluate real-world GPU performance.

We first ran 3DMark Wild Life and Wild Life Extreme, two cross-platform graphics tests designed to compare GPU performance across different architectures.

The Surface Pro achieved:

These results demonstrate a dramatic improvement over Qualcomm’s previous integrated graphics solutions and place the new Adreno GPU firmly in competition with the latest integrated graphics from Intel and AMD.
The device also successfully completed 3DMark Time Spy (DirectX 12) and Fire Strike (DirectX 11) under emulation.

The Adreno X2-85 recorded graphics scores of:

• Time Spy: 2,581
• Fire Strike: 7,516

For an ultra-portable ARM tablet without a dedicated GPU, these are impressive numbers. The graphics performance is now comparable to current-generation integrated graphics found in mainstream Intel Core Ultra and AMD Ryzen mobile processors, making casual gaming and GPU-accelerated creative workloads far more practical than before.

While this Surface Pro isn’t intended to replace a gaming laptop, it comfortably handles lightweight games, indie titles, emulators, cloud gaming, and even many older PC games with ease.

5. Memory, Storage & Surface Slim Pen 2

Our review unit comes equipped with 24GB of LPDDR5 memory running at 9,523MT/s, providing ample bandwidth for multitasking, creative applications, and AI workloads.

Although memory benchmarking tools such as AIDA64 still operate under translation mode on Windows ARM, the results indicate that memory performance is fully in line with expectations for a premium ultraportable device.

Storage performance is equally solid.

Microsoft includes a 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD, and benchmark testing with both native ARM and translated x64 versions of CrystalDiskMark showed virtually identical results, suggesting that Microsoft’s storage subsystem suffers almost no measurable performance penalty under emulation.

Overall SSD performance reaches the level expected from a modern PCIe 4.0 drive, providing fast boot times, responsive application loading, and excellent file transfer speeds.

During ATTO Disk Benchmark testing, write performance dipped only during the largest sustained transfers, likely because the SSD exhausted its high-speed cache. This behavior is typical of many consumer PCIe 4.0 SSDs and should have little impact on everyday use.

Surface Slim Pen 2 Experience

The included Surface Slim Pen 2 remains one of the best styluses available for Windows devices.

Although its flattened body initially appears smaller than a conventional pen, it measures approximately 135mm in length, making it just as comfortable to hold during long writing or drawing sessions. In practice, it feels much more natural than its appearance might suggest.

Because it’s a first-party Microsoft accessory, Windows 11 offers seamless native support without requiring any additional software installation.

Nearly every pen function can be customized directly through the Windows Settings app, resulting in an exceptionally polished user experience.

During handwriting tests in Microsoft Paint, pen latency was virtually imperceptible. Ink appeared instantly beneath the pen tip, making note-taking and sketching feel fluid and responsive.

The pen’s rear button functions as an eraser by default—simply flip the pen over to erase handwritten content, closely mimicking the experience of using a traditional pencil.

The Surface Slim Pen 2 also includes two programmable buttons:

• Top button
  • Single press: Launch OneNote
  • Long press: Launch OneNote
  • Double press: Activate Windows 11’s AI-powered Click to Do feature
• Side button
  • Functions as a right-click shortcut, allowing quick access to context menus while drawing or navigating Windows.

These thoughtful shortcuts significantly improve productivity and reinforce Microsoft’s focus on pen-based workflows.

6. Battery Life & Thermal Performance: ARM Efficiency Sets a New Standard

One of the biggest advantages of Qualcomm’s ARM platform is its exceptional power efficiency, and the new Surface Pro (13-inch) fully demonstrates just how far Windows on ARM has come.

Although we were unable to disassemble the device due to Microsoft’s tightly integrated construction, hardware monitoring software confirmed that the tablet houses a 54.5Wh battery, which is quite generous for such a slim and lightweight 2-in-1.

Outstanding Battery Life

To evaluate real-world endurance, we used PCMark 10’s Applications Battery Test, which simulates everyday productivity tasks using Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

It’s worth noting that only certain PCMark 10 workloads currently support ARM devices under Microsoft’s Prism translation layer, so these results shouldn’t be directly compared with previous laptop reviews that used different battery benchmarks.

Even so, the results were nothing short of remarkable.

Starting from a full charge, the Surface Pro continued running until the battery reached 4%, delivering an impressive:

• 20 hours and 17 minutes of continuous runtime

For a full Windows PC, this level of endurance is outstanding. It easily covers an entire workday—and even two days of moderate office use—without requiring a charger. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Elite clearly sets a new benchmark for energy efficiency in Windows laptops and tablets.

Thermal Performance

We also conducted a sustained stress test using AIDA64.

Due to current limitations in ARM monitoring software, some utilities were unable to accurately report CPU frequency and temperature during the test. Native ARM versions of HWiNFO and CPU-Z provided only partial monitoring information, so the following figures should be viewed as approximate rather than absolute.

At the beginning of the stress test, the Snapdragon X2 Elite’s SoC briefly reached a power draw of approximately 46.7W before gradually stabilizing at around 16.8W under sustained load.

This behavior suggests that Microsoft allows the processor to boost aggressively for short bursts of demanding work before settling into a highly efficient operating range. Naturally, the tablet’s fanless-like thin chassis imposes some thermal limitations compared to thicker laptops, but sustained performance remains very respectable.

Surface temperatures also remained well controlled.

The aluminum chassis distributed heat evenly across the device, preventing noticeable hotspots. Most warmth was concentrated near the rear exhaust area, while the front display stayed relatively cool, particularly around the center where users are most likely to interact with the touchscreen.

Overall, Microsoft’s thermal design strikes an excellent balance between comfort and performance.

7. Verdict: Windows on ARM Has Finally Reached Maturity

Last year, when we reviewed the Surface Laptop (13-inch), we focused heavily on software compatibility because Windows on ARM was still proving itself. At the time, Microsoft’s Prism translation layer had already reached a point where most everyday applications ran smoothly, with only a handful of professional programs lacking ARM support.

One year later, the situation has improved even further.

Today, nearly all mainstream Windows applications run without issue, and many professional software developers have released native ARM versions of their applications. Software compatibility is no longer the major concern it once was.

The Snapdragon X2 Elite also delivers noticeably better performance when running translated x86 software.

Using CPU-Z as an example, the translated version achieves approximately 77% of the native multi-core performance and 72% of the native single-core performance. While there is still some performance overhead associated with emulation, it has been reduced enough that most users are unlikely to notice it during everyday computing.

Compared with last year’s Snapdragon X Plus platform, the improvements are substantial.

Although the processors belong to different product tiers and aren’t directly comparable, benchmark results clearly show the rapid evolution of Qualcomm’s PC processors:

• Around 50% higher multi-core performance in CPU-Z
• Approximately 20–30% higher scores in Cinebench R20 and R23
• Significant gains in both performance and efficiency

These improvements make the new Surface Pro feel considerably faster than its predecessor across a wide range of workloads.

Perhaps the biggest surprise, however, is the new Adreno X2-85 GPU.

In 3DMark’s Wild Life benchmark, graphics performance has nearly doubled compared to the previous generation. Even more importantly, DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 benchmarks now place Qualcomm’s integrated graphics on par with the latest mainstream integrated GPUs from Intel.

For the first time, an ARM-based Windows PC is capable of handling not only office productivity but also light gaming and multimedia entertainment with confidence.

The Surface Pro (13-inch) ultimately succeeds because it combines several key strengths into one elegant device:

• Excellent build quality
• Premium 2-in-1 versatility
• Mature Windows on ARM compatibility
• Outstanding battery life exceeding 20 hours
• Dramatically improved CPU and GPU performance
• AI-ready Snapdragon X2 Elite platform
• Superb Surface Slim Pen 2 experience

For business professionals, students, digital artists, and frequent travelers, the Surface Pro delivers one of the best mobile productivity experiences currently available.

Who Should Buy the Surface Pro 13-inch?

Good choice for:

• Students
• Business travelers
• Office users
• Note-taking and handwriting
• Users who value long battery life
• People who want a tablet/laptop hybrid

Less suitable for:

• Serious PC gamers
• Users dependent on specialist x86 software
• People who need many built-in ports
• Users doing sustained heavy workloads

And thanks to its vastly improved integrated graphics, it is no longer just a productivity machine. Casual gaming, media consumption, and creative work are now genuine strengths, making the latest Surface Pro one of the most complete ARM-powered Windows devices Microsoft has ever produced.

The post Surface Pro 13-inch Review: Snapdragon X2 Performance, Battery Life and Graphics Tested 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.

Before getting my hands on the RedMagic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro, I wasn’t expecting much. It’s a routine update, right? A brighter screen, slightly higher frame rates, maybe a bit better cooling. The usual incremental stuff.

But after actually using it, I’ve completely changed my mind. This isn’t a minor upgrade; it’s genuinely impressive.

Steam Direct Connect was available on the RedMagic Gaming Tablet 3 Pro, but back then, it felt more like a functional novelty. With the 5 Pro, RedMagic has leveraged three key advantages—liquid cooling, a 185Hz display, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5—to elevate the Steam Direct Connect experience from merely usable to genuinely enjoyable. Check out our RedMagic Gaming Tablet 3 Pro review.

The First Key Feature: Liquid Cooling System

RedMagic has done something unprecedented by integrating a liquid cooling solution, typically found in servers and desktops, into a chassis just 6.9mm thin. Combined with Liquid Metal 3.0 and a large VC vapor chamber, this system improves chip heat dissipation efficiency by up to 28% and reduces core temperatures by as much as 8°C.
The cooling module even houses 11 custom RGB LEDs, creating a striking ambient glow in low-light conditions.

The Second Key Feature: 185Hz Display

The 9.06-inch OLED panel utilizes an industry-first X10 luminescent material, boasting a local peak brightness of 1600 nits and a dynamic contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1.
Coupled with the tablet’s industry-first 185Hz refresh rate, a new Synaptics S3930 touch controller, and a 2000Hz instantaneous touch sampling rate, the improved responsiveness is immediately noticeable. FPS gamers, in particular, will appreciate the difference.

The Third Key Feature: Next-Level Performance

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and paired with RedMagic’s in-house R4 gaming chip, this tablet achieves an impressive AnTuTu score of 4.57 million. This dual-chip setup is rare in compact tablets and provides the backbone needed for sustained, high-performance Steam Direct Connect gaming and demanding AAA titles. See our Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 performance guide.

The RedMagic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro inherently supports external controllers, keyboards, mice, and display output. With a controller connected, it transforms into a powerful handheld console; mirrored to a TV, it delivers a big-screen experience. Steam Direct Connect expands its library from mobile games to a vast PC catalog, drastically increasing its versatility.
A robust 8300mAh battery paired with dual USB-C ports supporting 80W fast charging ensures all-day play. The thoughtful dual-C port design and the unique flush back panel prevent cables from interfering with your grip during landscape gaming, making the “play-and-charge” experience seamless.

2. Design & Aesthetics: Liquid Cooling Lighting + Flush Back Plate – A Visual Delight

The first thing that strikes you is the 9.06-inch OLED display. Its 4.9mm ultra-narrow bezels achieve a 90.1% screen-to-body ratio, making the front look almost entirely like a display and offering great visual immersion.
The screen resolution is 2400 x 1504. Utilizing the new X10 luminescent material, it delivers a 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 1100 nits of global peak brightness, and 1600 nits locally.

At the top-left corner, you’ll notice the 185Hz refresh rate badge—the highest currently available on any tablet. The 16:10 aspect ratio is well-balanced, minimizing black bars whether you’re gaming in landscape or browsing content vertically.

We reviewed the “Dew Transparent Silver Wing” color variant. Its back features a dual-texture design: the top half is a transparent horizontal strip revealing the REDMAGIC branding, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 logo, and—most importantly—the liquid cooling pipes and dynamic lighting. The lower half boasts a silver-white matte finish with the RedMagic logo at the center.

This transparent window at the top is the tablet’s most distinctive design feature. Through the glass, you can see the internal liquid cooling loop, with blue lighting pulsing along the tubes, creating a visual cue of the cooling fluid in motion. The area also features “Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5” and “COOLING SYSTEM” text, along with a blue light strip. When active, the cooling module resembles a high-end PC’s liquid cooling setup, exuding a powerful tech aesthetic. In dim environments, the blue-cyan glow creates a striking visual impact.

The 13MP rear camera is completely flush with the back, blending seamlessly with the cooling window. This flush back panel not only looks sleek but also provides a stable surface, preventing wobbling on flat surfaces—crucial for rhythm games and FPS titles requiring multi-finger inputs.

On the left edge are the power button (with an integrated fingerprint sensor) and one of the stereo speakers.
On the right side is a full-featured USB 3.2 Gen 2 port (10Gbps) for high-speed data transfer, external displays, docks, or SSDs. Next to it sits the corresponding stereo speaker.
The top edge houses the volume rocker and a red “Game Space” switch. Flicking this switch instantly launches the dedicated gaming mode interface. The bottom features a USB 2.0 Type-C port designed primarily for charging. Its placement ensures the cable doesn’t obstruct your hands during landscape gaming. Both USB-C ports support 80W fast charging and bypass charging, powering the motherboard directly to reduce battery heat during extended play sessions. Read our guide to gaming mode features.

Inside the box, you’ll find a 100W fast charging adapter (with PPS protocol support) and a red C-to-C cable.

3. Performance Testing: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 + Liquid Cooling – Consistent, High-Frame-Rate Gaming

Packing flagship-tier performance into a 9.06-inch body, the RedMagic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. Built on TSMC’s 3nm process, it features two ultra-high-performance cores clocked at 4.6GHz and six performance cores at 3.62GHz. Combined with the RedMagic R4 gaming chip and the CUBE Game Engine 3.0, it’s a powerhouse.
The integrated liquid cooling system, Liquid Metal 3.0, and large VC chamber ensure the chip maintains peak performance, improving heat dissipation efficiency by up to 28% and reducing core temps by up to 8°C.

We tested the tablet’s performance using four representative titles.

1. Honor of Kings
We activated “Devil Mode” (Performance Mode) and set graphics to ‘Ultra’ for max performance.
During a 5v5 match, the frame rate remained stable at 145fps with virtually no drops.
The 9.06-inch screen provides a natural advantage in MOBA games, offering a clearer view of the map and more room for precise skill targeting and multi-finger maneuvers.
Average power consumption during gameplay was 9.35W, with an energy cost of 64.21mW per frame.

2. Genshin Impact
Devil Mode was enabled with max graphics, and we ran a ten-minute test by running through Sumeru City.

The game maintained a steady 61fps throughout, running at full capacity. Thanks to the liquid cooling, the tablet managed heat remarkably well, with no thermal throttling or noticeable frame drops.
Average power consumption was 10.01W, with an energy cost of 164.16mW per frame.

3. CrossFire: Gunfighter
With Devil Mode active, graphics set to ‘High’, and the frame rate limit set to the 185Hz mode, we tested the game.

In a Biohazard mode match on the ‘Lost City’ map, the average frame rate held steady around 177fps.
This game truly showcases the 185Hz display’s value. The fluidity is perceptible when aiming, turning, and tracking targets. The large screen offers a better view of the battlefield. The Synaptics S3930 controller’s 2000Hz polling rate delivers lightning-fast touch response.
Average power consumption was 7.97W, with an energy cost of 44.94mW per frame.

4. Delta Force
We selected the 165Hz mode with HD graphics and activated Devil Mode.
The game ran at a steady 167fps, providing excellent smoothness.
Average power consumption was 15.57W, with an energy cost of 92.89mW per frame.

After 20 minutes of Delta Force in Devil Mode (165Hz, HD), thermal imaging showed a maximum front-facing screen temperature of 44.7°C and a peak back panel temperature of 42.1°C.
Heat was concentrated around the center of the screen and back, but the areas where hands naturally rest remained relatively cool. The combination of liquid cooling, Liquid Metal 3.0, and the VC chamber effectively spreads thermal load, resulting in impressive overall temperature management.

4. PC Emulation & Multi-Form Factor Setup: Steam Direct Connect

RedMagic’s proprietary translation engine bridges the gap between x86 PC game code and the ARM architecture, essentially providing a built-in PC gaming environment on the tablet—no complicated tinkering required.

1. Steam Direct Connect Mode
Within the Game Space, you’ll find the PC emulator entrance. Simply log in to your Steam account via QR code, and your game library syncs instantly. Dozens of titles are currently compatible, playable right after downloading. Your save files are synced with your PC, allowing you to continue a session started on your phone or PC seamlessly.

2. PC Game Performance Tests
We tested four games of varying scales and genres on the default 1280×720 resolution.

• The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: A well-optimized AAA title, it runs on the tablet with virtual button controls. Frame rates hover around 20fps. Suitable for exploring and light questing, but action-packed sequences can cause stuttering. It offers a taste of the game’s story on the go, but serious sessions are best reserved for a PC.

• Watch Dogs: This performed surprisingly well. Most scenes ran smoothly, with frame rates stabilizing around 50-60fps. Exploring the city and high-speed driving felt fluid. Performance could dip to 40-50fps in complex, dense environments, but overall playability was solid. Running an open-world title on a 9.06-inch screen is quite an experience.
  
  

• BattleBlock Theater: This 2D side-scroller performed flawlessly, hitting a stable 60fps with responsive controls and consuming only around 3W of power. Ideal for extended play sessions, it feels more convenient than playing on a PC.

• Pick Love: This lightweight narrative game ran without a hitch, also maintaining 60fps with ~3W power consumption. The tablet’s screen and dual speakers actually enhance the immersive experience for story-driven titles, perfect for winding down in bed.

In Summary: The PC emulation solution makes a significant leap from “unplayable” to “playable.” Indie games and well-optimized mid-tier titles run exceptionally smoothly with low power and heat. While AAA gaming shouldn’t be the primary expectation, it’s a fantastic way to sample PC titles or continue your game saves when away from your desktop.

3. All-Scenario Connectivity
The RedMagic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro supports external controllers, keyboards, mice, and TV mirroring, effectively transforming between a handheld console, gaming laptop, console, and desktop.
We tested it with a keyboard and mouse in Watch Dogs. Controls felt responsive and natural, similar to the PC experience. While the 9.06-inch screen can’t replace a monitor, it offers a significantly broader view than a phone, making it perfectly suitable for portable PC gaming with peripherals.

4. RedMagic Screen Mirroring Assistant
Via the USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, the tablet supports 4K/144Hz output. Both wired and wireless mirroring are supported, including audio separation—a useful feature for streaming or recording gameplay on a larger display.

5. Special Features: RGB Lighting, AI Assistant & Dual USB-C Ports

The RedMagic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro boasts thoughtful features beyond raw performance.

1. RGB Liquid Cooling Lighting
RedMagic integrates RGB lighting directly into the cooling module. The transparent area houses 11 custom RGB LEDs, with custom light-guiding material for uniform illumination.
It’s not just a glowing logo; the cooling system is visually prominent. The customizable blue-cyan glow emanating from the cooling pipes creates a compelling “battle station” aesthetic on your desk. Brightness and color effects are fully customizable, adding a tangible sense of premium gear. See our RGB gaming gear guide.

2. RedMagic Assistant Mora AI
This built-in AI is genuinely useful in gaming scenarios.

• Tactical Coach: Mora can act as a real-time tactical advisor, offering suggestions based on the match situation. You can even strategize with it, potentially providing clearer tactical insights.

• Mora Reply: Leveraging a large language model, Mora can auto-reply to in-game messages. You can choose reply styles like “Cute & Sweet,” “Sarcastic & Playful,” or “Standard.” Supporting both the Mofang and Deepseek-R1 AI models, it can be set to manual or auto-reply. With the “Enhanced Conversation Understanding” feature, it can even understand chat text and provide voice responses—useful for quipping back at opponents.

Mora also offers “Performance Review,” automatically generating a summary with insights after each match to help you improve.

3. Smart Workstation Suite
Beyond gaming, the tablet includes features for productivity.

• AI Circle to Search: Circle any on-screen element for instant information. Circle a character’s ability to learn its details while gaming, or circle text/objects in social media posts or documents for translation, search, or context.

• AI Object Removal: Select or circle unwanted elements in screenshots or photos (like a character in a game shot) and the AI removes them, intelligently filling the background for a clean result.

• AI Voice Assistant/Translation: These tools are readily available for daily tasks, covering a wide range of common needs.

4. Dual USB-C Ports
The dual C-port design is a practical boon. Both ports support 80W fast charging and bypass charging, allowing you to choose a cable position that doesn’t obstruct your hands during landscape gaming. This direct motherboard powering helps lower charging heat. The tablet also supports reverse charging, letting you top up other devices in a pinch.

5. Additional Details

• Versatile Unlock: The integrated fingerprint sensor on the power button is fast, and face unlock works instantly even in low light.

• Wet Touch Control: Ensures stable touch input even when hands are sweaty or the screen is slightly damp—a key feature for FPS players.

• Eye Protection: Sky Shield 2.0 technology, combined with AI ambient light sensing, reduces blue light by 68% and visual fatigue by 22%. It’s certified by SGS for low blue light and flicker-free viewing, helping reduce eye strain during long sessions.

6. Battery & Charging: 8300mAh Battery, 67-Minute Full Charge

Despite its slim 6.9mm build, the RedMagic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro packs an 8300mAh battery—top-tier for a compact gaming tablet.

1. Battery Life Test
Using the “Battery Dog” test suite, which simulates a range of mixed usage scenarios (CPU load, image browsing, video playback, web browsing, etc.) under controlled conditions (50% brightness, 30% volume), we started the test at 100% battery.
After 6 hours and 53 minutes, the battery was down to 20%, which projects to approximately 8 hours and 36 minutes of total usage time. For a device with flagship silicon, a 185Hz high-refresh screen, and liquid cooling, this is remarkably efficient.
Interestingly, the liquid cooling system likely contributes to this endurance by maintaining chip efficiency under load, preventing thermal throttling and the associated power spikes.

2. Charging Test
Charging from 1% with the screen off:

• 10 minutes: 14%

• 30 minutes: 47%

• 1 hour: 91%

• Full charge time: ~67 minutes.
  The liquid cooling also proves beneficial during charging, especially for pass-through charging, as it helps manage heat buildup and maintains optimal charging speeds.

7. Conclusion: Setting a New Standard for Steam on Tablets

After thoroughly testing the RedMagic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro, I have to admit my initial skepticism was unfounded. I didn’t expect much from Steam Direct Connect on a 9-inch tablet, assuming it would be a compromise. But it turned out to be far more usable than I could have imagined.

The Steam Direct Connect is the standout feature. Running Watch Dogs at 50+ fps, indie games at a perfect 60fps while sipping just 3W of power—it genuinely feels like a PC gaming experience you can take anywhere. Lying in bed playing for a couple of hours with a controller feels natural. When I pulled it out at the office and started playing Watch Dogs with a controller, a colleague was genuinely surprised. “Wait, your tablet can play that?”
Sure, The Witcher 3 runs at around 20fps—more of a visual showcase than a fully playable experience, but it’s arguably the best Steam Direct Connect performance you can currently get on a 9-inch slate.

The liquid cooling is a game-changer. After 20 minutes of Delta Force, the back panel peaked at just 42.1°C. Packing a liquid cooling loop, liquid metal, and a VC chamber into a 6.9mm chassis is engineering, and it shows. A 30-minute Genshin session left the tablet warm, not scorching hot.

The 185Hz display and 2000Hz touch sampling rate make a tangible difference in FPS games. It’s something you feel the moment you start playing, not just a stat on a spec sheet.
With a 4.57 million AnTuTu score from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and R4 chip combo, performance is a non-issue. The 8300mAh battery paired with 80W fast charging means a quick top-up before heading out easily lasts most of the day. Backed by five major esports certifications and partnerships with pro teams (Q9 and KZ), it’s clear that the professional scene respects this tablet’s potential.
The main caveat is that the Steam Direct Connect game compatibility list is still growing. Some games designed for precise keyboard/mouse control don’t translate perfectly to touch input—for those, you’ll definitely want to connect peripherals.

I now slip this tablet into my bag whenever I leave the house. My Steam saves are finally portable.
If you have a decent Steam library and don’t want to invest in a separate handheld PC, the RedMagic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro is currently the most compelling option available.

The post RedMagic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro 2026 Review: Portable 9-Inch Tablet for Steam Games appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

AGM, a brand better known for its rugged smartphones, has now entered this space with the PAD P3 Compact triple protection mini tablet. It’s not trying to compete with the iPad Pro or the Galaxy Tab S9. Instead, it’s designed for a specific audience: outdoor workers, field technicians, construction site managers, and anyone who needs a durable, portable device that can handle tough environments.

This review takes a closer look at what the AGM PAD P3 offers, who it’s for, and whether it delivers on its promise of rugged reliability.

What Makes the AGM PAD P3 Different?

At first glance, the PAD P3 might seem like a small, unassuming tablet. Its 8.68-inch screen is compact by modern tablet standards, and its specifications, while respectable, won’t compete with flagship devices. But the PAD P3’s real value lies in its durability and thoughtful design for work scenarios.

Rugged Construction for Real-World Conditions

The PAD P3 carries IP68 and IP69K dust and water resistance certifications. For context, IP68 means it’s completely dust-tight and can survive submersion in water beyond 1 meter for extended periods. IP69K is a much more stringent rating, indicating the device can withstand high-pressure, high-temperature water jets—the kind used in industrial cleaning.

This makes the PAD P3 suitable for harsh environments where standard tablets would quickly fail.

Compact Size with a Purpose

The 8.68-inch form factor is a deliberate choice. Most rugged tablets tend to be large and heavy, but AGM has prioritized portability. The smaller screen makes the device easier to hold with one hand, and the adjustable wrist strap adds an extra layer of security when working at heights or in busy environments.

Helio G99 Chip: Balanced Performance

The MediaTek Helio G99 is a mid-range chip, and it’s a practical choice for a work-oriented tablet. It offers enough power for navigation, documentation, communication, and basic multitasking without consuming excessive battery. It’s not designed for intensive gaming or video editing, but for the intended use cases, it’s more than adequate.

Key Features for Work and Field Use

8.68-Inch 120Hz Display

The 600-nit brightness is a standout feature. Many tablets struggle to be readable in direct sunlight, but the PAD P3’s display is designed to remain visible in bright outdoor conditions. The 120Hz refresh rate also makes scrolling through documents and navigation smoother.

7200mAh Battery with 18W Charging

For a compact tablet, the 7200mAh battery is generous. AGM claims it can last through a full workday of typical use, which is critical for field workers who may not have access to power outlets. The 18W wired charging is modest but sufficient for overnight charging.

50MP Main Camera and Camping Light

The 50MP rear camera is useful for documenting work sites, capturing photos of equipment, or scanning documents. The high-brightness camping light is a thoughtful addition, providing illumination for tasks in low-light environments without needing a separate flashlight.

Android 16 with Global 4G and eSIM

Running Android 16 out of the box means the PAD P3 will receive the latest features and security updates. The global version supports both physical SIM and eSIM, offering flexibility for international travel or switching carriers. The US version, however, is Wi-Fi only.

Expandable Storage

The 128GB internal storage is supplemented by a microSD card slot, allowing users to store large files, maps, and documentation without worrying about running out of space.

Who Should Buy the AGM PAD P3?

The PAD P3 is not for everyone. It’s a niche device designed for specific users:

• Field Technicians: For workers who need to access manuals, schematics, and documentation while on site.

• Construction and Maintenance Workers: For those who need a device that can survive drops, dust, and water.

• Outdoor Enthusiasts: For campers, hikers, and adventurers who need a durable tablet for navigation and communication.

• Logistics and Warehouse Staff: For inventory management and communication in challenging environments.

It is less suitable for users who primarily consume media, play games, or need a laptop replacement for intensive productivity tasks.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• IP68 and IP69K dust and water resistance

• Compact and portable 8.68-inch design

• Bright 600-nit display with 120Hz refresh rate

• Long-lasting 7200mAh battery

• 50MP camera and built-in camping light

• Android 16 with 4G and eSIM support

• Expandable storage via microSD

• Adjustable wrist strap for secure handling

Cons

• Helio G99 chip is mid-range, not suitable for heavy gaming

• Modest 18W charging

• US version only supports Wi-Fi, no 4G

• Niche appeal; not for general consumers

• 800×1340 resolution is lower than many competing tablets

Final Verdict: A Specialized Tool for a Specific Job

The post AGM PAD P3 Compact Review: An 8.68-Inch Rugged Tablet Built for Work and Everyday Use appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.