The latest HyperOS 4 beta update is being distributed to participants who signed up during the earlier recruitment period and were chosen for testing. This round covers several devices across Xiaomi’s product range, including select REDMI K series smartphones, MIX models, and Xiaomi tablets.

Eight Devices Join the HyperOS 4 Beta

The third beta batch covers the following eight devices:

• REDMI K100 Pro Max
• REDMI K100 Pro
• REDMI K80 Pro
• REDMI K80 Supreme Edition
• REDMI K80
• Xiaomi MIX Flip 2
• Xiaomi Tablet 7 Ultra
• Xiaomi Tablet 7S Pro 12.5

Xiaomi says the latest beta build does more than introduce the system’s existing features. It also adds new AI-powered functions designed to make everyday tasks easier to complete directly from the interface.

HyperOS 4 Adds a More Interactive AI Assistant

One of the major additions is the Super Xiaoice Inspiration Ball, which can be accessed by dragging from the side of the screen and holding the gesture.

The feature is designed to understand what the user is pointing at and then perform related actions. For example, users can point to an address to start navigation or select a schedule to add it to the calendar.

It can also recognize photos for more precise editing, making the feature less dependent on manually opening individual apps and entering information.

These functions show Xiaomi’s broader approach to integrating AI into common smartphone interactions rather than limiting Xiaomi AI features to standalone chat or search tools.

AI Calling Brings Automatic Call Assistance

The latest HyperOS 4 beta also introduces an AI Calling feature.

According to Xiaomi, users can configure AI call answering through a Xiaoice conversation. After handling a call, the system can automatically summarize the important information.

The feature is also designed for specific everyday scenarios. Xiaomi says it can provide suggested replies for calls related to services such as food delivery and package delivery.

AI voice replies are also supported for incoming calls, giving users another way to handle simple conversations without manually responding to every request.

Xiaomi says both the Super Xiaoice Inspiration Ball and AI Calling will be rolled out to the supported HyperOS 4 beta devices in stages.

HyperOS 4 Focuses on a Softer Visual Design

Beyond AI features, Xiaomi HyperOS 4 introduces a new visual direction built around what the company describes as a “Life-Aware Aesthetic” design language.

The interface uses soft glass-style visual materials, with panel transparency able to change according to the content displayed on the screen.

The system also adds flowing light effects during certain drag-and-drop interactions. As users move elements around the interface, the visual effects follow the movement, creating additional depth and motion.

These changes are intended to make everyday interactions feel more dynamic while maintaining a consistent visual style across the operating system.

More Lock Screen and Home Screen Customization

HyperOS 4 also expands customization options for the desktop and lock screen.

Users can reportedly move the clock to different positions on the lock screen, while notification management has been adjusted to provide more flexible stacking and storage options.

Folder customization has also been expanded, including an option to switch folder sizes more easily. In addition, desktop widgets can be grouped together, giving users more ways to organize information without filling the home screen with separate widgets.

Xiaomi Targets Smoother System Performance

Performance optimization is another part of the HyperOS 4 beta.

Xiaomi says it has made deeper changes to the underlying system kernel and introduced technologies such as load calculation and memory preloading.

The company is also working with a dedicated application runtime environment to improve application startup and overall system responsiveness.

Rather than focusing only on visual changes, these system-level optimizations are intended to improve how quickly apps launch and how smoothly the interface operates during everyday use.

HyperOS 4 Beta Rollout Continues in Stages

The third HyperOS 4 beta batch expands Xiaomi’s testing program to eight more devices, while the new AI calling and interactive assistant features add another layer to the software update.

The combination of AI functions, expanded customization, a refreshed interface, and system-level performance improvements makes this beta release broader than a simple visual update.

As an early test release, HyperOS 4 may offer different features depending on the device and beta version installed. Xiaomi is likely to make further changes throughout the testing period before the final stable version reaches a broader user base, while more compatible devices and functions could join the program later.

The post Xiaomi Adds 8 More Devices to the HyperOS 4 Beta Testing Program appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

HONOR has introduced what it calls the Luminous Glass Architecture, which brings a more transparent and fluid visual style to the system. The company says the architecture involves a deeper restructuring of Android at the system level, allowing interface elements to deliver a more consistent transparent-glass appearance. Here to check Android operating system upgrade.

One of the highlights is HONOR’s dynamic Liquid Glass effect. The transparency of interface elements can be adjusted continuously, giving the system a more flexible visual presentation rather than relying on a fixed transparency level.

HONOR also claims that the new rendering approach has been designed to deliver these visual effects without significantly increasing power consumption.

New Hummingbird Architecture Targets Smoother Animations

MagicOS 11 also introduces HONOR’s new Hummingbird Architecture, which focuses on system animation and responsiveness.

The company has developed a new physics-based animation model that supports features such as variable-parameter rebound effects and chain-rebound animations. These techniques are intended to make scrolling, transitions and other interface interactions feel more natural.

HONOR claims that the overall smoothness of supported devices can improve by more than 20% with MagicOS 11. The company is positioning the improvement as a system-wide upgrade rather than a feature limited to flagship hardware.

MagicOS 11 Can Free Up to 60GB of Storage

Another important addition is Storage Optimization Technology 2.0, smartphone storage optimization.

Instead of simply asking users to delete photos, apps or other personal files, the system uses data compression and automatic cleanup of redundant files to recover storage space.

HONOR says the technology can potentially save up to 60GB of storage, although the actual amount available will depend on the device, existing data and usage habits.

This could be particularly useful for phones with smaller storage capacities, where system and application data can gradually consume a significant portion of available space.

Multi-Protocol Fast Charging Improves Charging Flexibility

MagicOS 11 also adds support for multi-protocol fast charging.

The upgrade is designed to make charging more efficient across compatible charging standards, with HONOR specifically highlighting improvements to the wireless charging experience.

The actual charging speed will still depend on the smartphone model, charger and charging accessory being used, so the software update itself does not mean every HONOR device will suddenly support the same charging performance.

Hongyan AI Cloud Map Improves Network Selection

HONOR is also adding the Hongyan AI Cloud Map feature to improve connectivity in difficult network environments.

The system can automatically select what it considers the optimal network connection, with the goal of maintaining a more stable online experience when signal conditions are poor.

This is particularly relevant in situations where users frequently move between areas with different network conditions. HONOR says the feature is designed to improve the experience in weak-signal environments.

MagicOS 11 also adds support for connecting two Bluetooth earphones to one device simultaneously, which could be useful when two people want to listen to the same content from a single smartphone.

4K Live Capture Adds a New Camera Option

The update also brings a new imaging feature called 4K Live Capture.

The feature allows users to capture Live Photos while recording video, giving them a way to preserve a moving moment without having to choose between conventional video recording and a still image.

For users who frequently record family events, travel moments or short social-media clips, this could make it easier to keep both video footage and a Live Photo from the same recording session.

What Makes MagicOS 11 Different?

MagicOS 11 is more than a visual redesign. HONOR is combining several changes across the interface, system architecture, storage management, connectivity and imaging experience.

The main upgrades include:

• Liquid Glass-style visual design
• Luminous Glass Architecture
• Hummingbird Architecture for smoother animations
• 20%+ claimed improvement in overall system smoothness
• Up to 60GB of potential storage savings
• Multi-protocol fast charging
• AI-assisted network selection
• Two Bluetooth earphones connected to one device
• 4K Live Capture
• More fluid physics-based system animations

Taken together, these features show that HONOR is using MagicOS 11 to compete not only on appearance but also on everyday system performance and usability.

MagicOS 11 Signals a Broader Software Upgrade for HONOR Devices

The arrival of MagicOS 11 gives HONOR users a substantial software update centered around three areas: a new visual identity, smoother interaction and more efficient use of device resources.

The Liquid Glass interface will likely be the first change users notice, but features such as storage optimization, improved connectivity and dual Bluetooth audio could have a more direct impact on everyday use.

As the rollout expands to additional compatible HONOR smartphones and tablets, the actual experience will also depend on hardware differences between models. For now, MagicOS 11 represents one of HONOR’s most significant software updates, with the company putting considerable emphasis on both visual design and system-level optimization.

The post HONOR MagicOS 11 Launches With Liquid Glass Design and 60GB Storage Savings appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The model tested here is the Soft Light Edition. Unlike a standard display designed to deliver higher brightness and more vivid colors, the soft light panel is better suited to extended viewing. This gives the 13.3-inch tablet a clearer focus on productivity, reading, and long sessions.

However, the large display is not necessarily the most interesting part of the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max. The bigger question is how Xiaomi intends users to take advantage of such a large tablet.

Flagship Performance in a Slim Body

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max is the first tablet to feature the Xiaomi Xring O3 chip, bringing the company’s flagship-level processor to a tablet form factor. Fitting such a powerful chip into a body measuring only 5.67mm thick makes the device particularly interesting from a hardware perspective.

However, the Xring O3 is not simply about achieving higher benchmark scores or faster gaming performance. Its real value becomes more apparent when combined with the tablet’s large display and software features.

The HyperOS 4 experience introduces large-screen features such as improved multitasking and multi-window functionality. When paired with the floating keyboard and touchpad, the Pad 9 Pro Max starts to feel less like a traditional tablet and more like a flexible productivity device.

Apps such as WPS Office and CapCut also benefit from the additional screen space, giving users more room to work with documents, timelines, and multiple applications. The inclusion of DP-in video input further expands the tablet’s potential use cases, allowing the large display to serve purposes beyond conventional tablet tasks.

This is what makes the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max particularly interesting. Its appeal is not simply based on having a 13.3-inch screen or a powerful processor. Instead, Xiaomi appears to be exploring how hardware, software, and accessories can work together to make a large tablet genuinely useful.

During my experience with the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max, the main question was not how powerful the Xring O3 could be. Instead, I wanted to see whether the combination of the Xiaomi Xring O3, 13.3-inch display, HyperOS 4, keyboard, touchpad, and other accessories could unlock the full potential of a large-screen tablet.

That approach makes the Pad 9 Pro Max more than simply a bigger tablet. It is an attempt to create a device that can adapt to productivity, entertainment, creative work, and other everyday scenarios. The rest of the review will explore whether Xiaomi has successfully achieved that goal.

Design and Screen

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max features a large 13.3-inch LCD display with a 3408 × 2272 resolution, delivering a sharp 3.4K viewing experience at 308 PPI. It also supports a 144Hz refresh rate, making scrolling, animations, and everyday navigation feel noticeably smoother.

One of the display’s standout features is its 3:2 aspect ratio. Compared with the more common 16:10 format, the taller screen provides additional vertical space, which is particularly useful for browsing websites, reading documents, and working with productivity apps. The panel also supports the P3 wide color gamut, HDR10, and Dolby Vision, while its peak brightness reaches 1,000 nits. As a result, the display is well suited to both office tasks and multimedia consumption.

The model featured in this review comes in a deep wine-red finish inspired by the Burgundy wine region of France. Its color sits between bright and dark red, giving the tablet a distinctive appearance without looking overly flashy. The overall finish feels refined and premium.

At just 653g, the tablet made an immediate impression with its relatively light weight. Considering its 13.3-inch display, it feels considerably easier to carry than a typical laptop of a similar screen size.

Flip the tablet over and you’ll find an all-metal unibody construction that gives it a sturdy and premium feel. The Xiaomi logo sits in the center, while the camera module is positioned toward the upper-right corner. Three metal contact points can be found near the opposite side for connecting the optional floating keyboard.

These three circular contacts allow the keyboard to attach directly to the tablet. Once the magnetic connection is made, the keyboard is ready to use without requiring additional pairing or complicated setup. It’s a simple but practical design for users who frequently switch between tablet and laptop-style workflows.

The rear camera module uses a rounded rectangular design and houses a 50MP main camera. The upper portion of the module also carries the “XRING” branding, highlighting Xiaomi’s in-house Xuanjie chip platform and giving the rear design a distinctive touch.

Along one side of the tablet, you’ll find the speakers and a USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 port. The port supports DP-in video input and can handle output of up to 3.4K at 120Hz. This expands the tablet’s versatility, allowing it to work as a secondary display when connected to a laptop or as a larger gaming screen when paired with devices such as a Nintendo Switch.

The opposite edge houses the power button, another speaker, and microphone openings. Xiaomi has also added a “Dolby Vision · Atmos” marking to the chassis, reflecting support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos technologies.

Floating Keyboard

The accompanying Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max floating keyboard attaches magnetically and holds the tablet securely in place. Once connected, it is immediately ready for use, allowing the tablet to transition quickly from a traditional touchscreen device into a laptop-style workstation.

With the 13.3-inch display paired with a physical keyboard, tasks such as writing documents, responding to messages, and handling other productivity work become much more comfortable. The setup gives the tablet a laptop-like experience while retaining the flexibility of a detachable design.

The keyboard uses large 16mm keycaps with approximately 1mm of key travel. During typing, the keys provide clear feedback and a relatively crisp response, making the layout more familiar to users accustomed to conventional laptop or desktop keyboards.

The integrated touchpad uses a linear motor to provide tactile feedback and supports multiple gesture shortcuts. This makes navigation more convenient when the tablet is being used in laptop mode without relying heavily on the touchscreen.

The rear of the keyboard cover follows the tablet’s overall material and color scheme, creating a cohesive look when the two are attached. When closed, the cover sits firmly against the tablet and maintains a clean, integrated appearance.

Slim Design and Battery

At only 5.67mm thick, the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max has an exceptionally slim profile for a device of this size. From the side, its thin body gives it an almost plate-like appearance. More impressively, Xiaomi has managed to fit a large 12,000mAh battery and its flagship Xring O3 chip into this slim chassis.

The tablet also comes with a 120W fast-charging adapter. According to Xiaomi’s official figures, the 12,000mAh battery can reach a full 100% charge in approximately 53 minutes. We will put that claim to the test later in the review to see how the real-world charging performance compares with the manufacturer’s specifications.

Hardware and Performance

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max is the first Xiaomi tablet to feature the company’s third-generation self-developed Xring O3 chipset. The processor uses a 10-core all-big-core CPU architecture and a 16-core Mali G2-Ultra NX GPU, giving it hardware specifications that are closer to desktop-class performance.

As Xiaomi’s most powerful tablet chipset to date, the Xring O3 achieved more than 5.22 million points in AnTuTu V11 under low-temperature laboratory conditions. In our own testing, we used the latest version of AnTuTu in a 25°C environment, where the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max reached 5.53 million points. This puts the tablet firmly among the highest-performing Android tablets.

Thermal Performance and Cooling

To maintain sustained performance, Xiaomi has equipped the Pad 9 Pro Max with a 3,038 mm² vapor chamber (VC) cooling plate and a massive 10,112 mm² graphite heat-spreading layer. The tablet’s 13.3-inch chassis also provides additional internal space for its cooling hardware.

The key question is whether this thermal design can prevent performance from dropping during extended gaming sessions. To find out, we tested three demanding mainstream games under high-performance settings.

1. Honor of Kings

For Honor of Kings, we enabled Performance Mode and selected the highest available graphics quality and frame-rate settings.

During a standard 5v5 match, the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max delivered an average frame rate of 144.22 fps, while the 1% Low frame rate reached 134.3 fps. The frame-rate curve remained remarkably stable throughout the test.

The large 13.3-inch display provides a clear advantage for MOBA games. The wider screen gives players more room to view the battlefield, while the larger interface makes controls and on-screen information easier to see. However, the tablet’s size also makes it less comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions.

For longer gaming sessions, placing the tablet on a stand is a more practical solution. This is one of the main compromises of using a large-screen tablet for gaming.

Average power consumption during the test was 4.6W, with power consumption per frame measured at 31.9mW.

The highest surface temperature reached 31.9°C on the front and 31.5°C on the rear, showing that the cooling system kept temperatures under control.

2. Genshin Impact

For Genshin Impact, we enabled Performance Mode and frame interpolation. We then ran through Sumeru City for 10 minutes using the highest graphics settings.

Sumeru City is a demanding area because of its dense combination of NPCs, buildings, vegetation, and other environmental elements. This makes it a useful scenario for evaluating sustained GPU performance.

After 10 minutes of gameplay, the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max achieved an average frame rate of 119.7 fps, while the 1% Low figure reached 94.9 fps. Overall, the tablet maintained performance close to a consistent 120 fps.

Average power consumption was 5.98W, while power consumption per frame was 49.98mW.

The highest temperature recorded on the front was 35°C, while the rear reached 33.6°C.

One of the more interesting features of the Xring O3 is its integrated AI rendering capability. The GPU includes eight AI rendering acceleration units that support 3.2K super-resolution and 120fps frame interpolation at the same time.

In practical terms, this allows the tablet to improve image sharpness and frame-rate smoothness without relying on a separate discrete graphics processor.

We also tested the feature directly in Genshin Impact. After opening the game toolbox, enabling Display Enhancement, and turning on super resolution, the visual quality became noticeably sharper. Fine details such as Keqing’s hair, clothing patterns, and textures on the stone walls appeared clearer, while distant building edges looked less blurred.

3. Honkai: Star Rail

For Honkai: Star Rail, we again enabled Performance Mode and frame interpolation. The game was tested for 10 minutes at the highest graphics settings while exploring the Golden Hour area.

After the 10-minute test, the average frame rate reached 119.27 fps, while the 1% Low frame rate was 74.1 fps. Performance remained generally stable, although frame-rate fluctuations became more noticeable during the second half of the test. Even so, the overall result remained within a reasonable range for demanding gameplay.

Average power consumption was 7.92W, with power consumption per frame reaching 66.37mW.

The highest temperature measured on the front was 34.9°C, while the rear reached 33.6°C.

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max demonstrates strong sustained gaming performance across all three tests. Its Xring O3 chipset, large cooling system, and spacious 13.3-inch chassis work together to maintain high frame rates without excessive surface temperatures.

The tablet is particularly well suited to players who prefer a large display and high refresh-rate gaming. Its main limitation is physical size: while the 13.3-inch panel improves visibility and immersion, holding such a large tablet for long gaming sessions can become uncomfortable.

For users who primarily game with the tablet supported on a desk or stand, however, the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max offers a compelling combination of large-screen immersion, high frame rates, and strong thermal performance.

Productivity Experience

The Xring O3 showed impressive results in gaming, but raw performance is only part of what makes a premium tablet useful. For a device positioned as a large-screen productivity flagship, the more important question is whether its processor, 13.3-inch display, and Surge OS 4 can make everyday work faster and more convenient.

After spending time with the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max, its productivity features make a stronger impression than benchmark numbers alone.

A 13.3-Inch Display Designed for Productivity

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max features a 13.3-inch display with a 3408 × 2272 resolution and a 3:2 aspect ratio. While the specifications are impressive, the real advantage becomes clear during office work.

When using WPS to write documents, the taller 3:2 screen shows more vertical content than a typical 16:10 tablet display. This means less scrolling when reading or editing long documents.

The Soft Light Edition is particularly useful outdoors. Its anti-glare treatment noticeably reduces reflections under strong lighting, making the display more comfortable to view during extended work sessions.

1. Six Apps Can Run at the Same Time

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max supports up to six application windows simultaneously. A four-finger pinch gesture opens the panoramic view, allowing all active windows to be displayed together and resized or repositioned as needed.

I tested this feature while planning a weekend trip to Shanghai Disneyland. I used Xiaohongshu to browse travel recommendations, Gaode Maps to check the route from Zhengzhou to Shanghai, Flightradar24 to compare flight information, QQ to communicate with my friend, the Disney store to check ticket prices, and the calculator to work out the overall budget.

With all six applications open, switching between them remained responsive, with no obvious stuttering. This is where the multi-core capability of the Xring O3 becomes useful in everyday productivity rather than simply in benchmarks.

For normal work, four windows feel more comfortable. Six windows are better when you need to compare several sources at once, such as when researching, shopping, planning a trip, or managing multiple work tasks.

2. Full-Featured WPS Brings a Desktop-Like Office Experience

Android tablets have traditionally offered a more limited WPS experience compared with desktop computers. Large spreadsheets could become sluggish when scrolling, while long documents sometimes suffered from delays when zooming or navigating.

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max takes a different approach with a full-featured version of WPS designed for the tablet. Xiaomi states that its performance is more than 20% higher than the previous container-based version, while scrolling through large spreadsheets, scaling lengthy documents, and rendering complex presentations have also been optimized.

In practical use, large Excel spreadsheets containing tens of thousands of rows remained smooth while scrolling. The brief delays that can occur on less powerful tablets were much less noticeable.

Adding the floating keyboard and touchpad makes the experience even closer to using a traditional computer. Document editing, navigation, and text input feel familiar enough for extended office sessions.

The built-in Lingxi AI features add another layer of convenience. Users can generate presentations, analyze Excel data, and create text content with AI-assisted commands, reducing the amount of repetitive work required for common office tasks.

3. CapCut Pro Makes Large-Screen Video Editing More Practical

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max comes with CapCut Pro pre-installed. Its interface provides a familiar editing environment, while the 13.3-inch display gives the timeline, media library, preview window, and editing controls more room than a smartphone.

The larger canvas makes dragging clips, adjusting effects, and managing multiple layers considerably easier.

Even with several video tracks, filters, transitions, and effects active, playback remained smooth during testing. This highlights one of the biggest advantages of combining a powerful processor with a large display: the goal is not simply achieving a high benchmark score, but maintaining a responsive experience during real work.

I also tested video export performance. A 30-second 4K video file measuring 113MB took less than 15 seconds to export from the moment the process was started. That makes the tablet particularly useful for creators who need to edit and share footage quickly while traveling or working away from a desk.

4. AI Features: Super Xiao Ai and Cross-Device File Management

Surge OS 4 introduces an expert mode for Super Xiao Ai that goes beyond basic question-and-answer functions. It can understand more complicated instructions, divide them into multiple tasks, and perform operations across different applications.

4.1 Cross-Device AI File Management

One of the more useful AI features is the ability to access files across tablets, smartphones, and computers using natural-language commands.

Instead of manually opening a file manager and transferring documents, users can simply tell Xiao Ai what they need. During testing, a request to send an order-data spreadsheet from a computer to the tablet prompted the system to locate the relevant file and transfer it to the Pad.

The process took only a few seconds and removed several manual steps from the workflow.

4.2 Super Xiao Ai Expert Mode

Expert Mode becomes more interesting when handling multi-step tasks. For testing, a six-minute meeting recording was used with a simple instruction: organize the latest recording, create notes, and prepare a PowerPoint presentation.

Super Xiao Ai automatically processed the recording, created structured meeting minutes, identified the main ideas, and summarized the advantages and risks of the five startup plans discussed during the meeting.

It then generated an 11-page business-style presentation containing a cover page, meeting overview, plan details, comparison information, and an action flow. After reviewing the generated content, the presentation could be created with a confirmation. The system can also generate interactive web pages, data dashboards, and other structured office content from basic instructions.

4.3 AI Notes Turn Recordings Into Structured Summaries

The AI Notes feature can automatically transcribe meeting recordings and turn them into organized summaries.

In one test, a six-minute recording was converted into approximately 660 words of structured notes. The result included the key discussion points, the five solutions mentioned during the meeting, and the final conclusion.

Different processing modes, including key-point summaries, meeting minutes, proofreading, and simplified content, provide additional flexibility.

AI can also answer questions about previously recorded meetings, making it easier to find information without manually searching through every note.

5. DP-In Could Be One of the Tablet’s Most Useful Features

DP-In is arguably one of the most interesting features of the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max. Using a full-featured USB-C cable, the tablet can function as an external display and portable second monitor, supporting input of up to 3.4K at 120Hz.

Because the connection does not depend on Wi-Fi, it can also be useful in environments where wireless connectivity is unreliable.

5.1 Use the Pad as a Portable Second Monitor

I connected the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max to a laptop and used it as a secondary display. Text remained sharp, and moving application windows between the two screens felt responsive.

A dual-screen setup is particularly useful for office work. For example, the laptop can display the main document while the Pad shows reference materials, communication apps, or meeting information.

The tablet also works with Mac devices and supports multiple HiDPI display modes, making it more flexible for different desktop setups.

5.2 Turn a Handheld Console Into a Larger Gaming Setup

DP-In can also expand the display of a handheld gaming device.

After connecting a handheld console, the 13.3-inch screen provided a much larger viewing area than the console’s built-in display. During testing with the SFC version of Chrono Trigger, the larger panel made the pixel graphics easier to appreciate and the dialogue easier to read.

This setup offers a portable alternative to carrying a separate desktop monitor when you want a larger gaming screen.

5.3 Use the Pad as a Portable Drawing Display

When connected to a PC and paired with the Xiaomi Focus Stylus Pro, the Pad can also function as a digital drawing display.

The stylus supports up to 16,384 levels of pressure sensitivity. Its gesture controls can be used to access the color palette, adjust brush settings, and change brush thickness, making common drawing operations easier to access.

I tested the setup with Drawing World Pro. The pen response was responsive, while the 13.3-inch canvas provided enough space for drawing and annotation work. For users who regularly create illustrations or annotate documents while traveling, this setup can be more convenient than carrying a dedicated graphics tablet.

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max can also connect directly to mainstream cameras. With compatible photo-editing software, photos can be transferred to the tablet for quick editing and output without first moving them to another computer.

Beyond traditional productivity, the tablet can also serve as a rear entertainment and control screen in supported Xiaomi vehicles, including the SU7 and YU7. Depending on the vehicle configuration, users can access functions such as air conditioning, seat controls, music, and navigation. Child-space and anti-motion-sickness features further expand its potential for passengers.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is an important consideration for any large-screen tablet, especially a 13.3-inch flagship model. A bigger display and powerful hardware can consume more power, making battery capacity and charging speed key factors in the overall user experience.

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max addresses this with a large 12,000mAh battery and support for 120W fast charging. While these specifications look impressive, real-world battery performance is a better measure of how well the tablet handles demanding tasks.

Battery Life Test

To evaluate the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max’s endurance, we used BatteryDog, a battery testing tool developed by Fast Technology. The test combines several demanding scenarios to simulate typical daily use, including CPU-intensive workloads, multi-threaded processing, AI recognition, image browsing, video playback, and web browsing.

For consistency, the display brightness was set to 50%, automatic brightness was disabled, and the volume was fixed at 30% throughout the test. These settings help reduce external variables and provide more reliable results.

The test results provide a clearer picture of how the 12,000mAh battery performs under a mixed workload. For a tablet with a 13.3-inch display and flagship-level hardware, endurance under sustained use is particularly important, as it determines how long users can work, stream videos, browse the web, or handle demanding applications before needing to recharge.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is an important consideration for a large-screen tablet, especially when it combines a high-resolution display with flagship-level performance. The larger display and more powerful hardware can naturally lead to higher power consumption.

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max addresses this with a 12,000mAh battery and 120W fast charging. While these specifications are impressive, real-world performance is more important. Here is how the tablet performed in our battery and charging tests.

1. Battery Life Test

We used BatteryDog, a testing tool from Fast Technology, to evaluate the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max under a range of simulated everyday workloads. The test included CPU-intensive tasks, multi-threaded processing, AI recognition, image browsing, video playback, and web browsing.

To maintain consistent testing conditions, the display brightness was fixed at 50%, automatic brightness was disabled, and the volume was set to 30%.

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max lasted 11 hours and 2 minutes, dropping from 100% to 20% battery capacity during the test. Based on this result, the tablet’s estimated full battery endurance is approximately 13 hours and 47 minutes.

The tablet also maintained a relatively low peak temperature of 35.3°C throughout the test, indicating good control over both heat and power consumption.

For a device featuring the Xring O3 flagship chipset and a 13.3-inch 3.4K high-refresh-rate display, this is a strong result. The combination of a large 12,000mAh battery and the chipset’s power-efficiency optimizations allows the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max to provide enough endurance for a full day of typical use.

2. Charging Test

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max was also tested with its included 120W fast charger. We performed the test with the screen turned off to measure the charging performance under controlled conditions.

The results were impressive. The tablet charged from 1% to 25% in just 10 minutes, reached 63% after 30 minutes, and completed a full charge in approximately 57 minutes.

Considering the tablet’s large 12,000mAh battery, reaching a full charge in under an hour is particularly useful for users who need to quickly prepare the device before heading out.

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max also supports 27W wired reverse charging, allowing it to provide emergency power to a smartphone or other compatible device. Although 27W is considerably lower than the tablet’s own 120W charging speed, the feature can still be useful when another device needs a quick power boost.

Overall, the combination of a 12,000mAh battery, nearly 14 hours of estimated endurance, and 120W fast charging makes the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max well suited to users who want both long battery life and fast recharge times from a large-screen flagship tablet.

Verdict

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max shows that a larger tablet display can offer more than simply extra screen space. After using the device, it becomes clear that the real advantage of its 13.3-inch panel comes from how Xiaomi integrates the display with the hardware and software.

A bigger screen alone does not necessarily make a tablet more useful. However, when the additional space is combined with productivity features, multitasking, creative tools, and support for external devices, the experience becomes significantly more practical.

This is where the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max stands out.

The Xring O3 chip provides a strong performance foundation, but Xiaomi has designed the tablet around more than gaming and everyday performance. The 13.3-inch display works alongside Surge OS 4, a keyboard, and a range of software features to create a more desktop-like experience.

Features such as multi-window support, full-featured WPS, CapCut, AI tools, and DP-in make better use of the large display. Instead of simply showing larger versions of the same content, the screen provides additional room for office tasks, creative projects, and multitasking.

DP-In Adds Another Dimension

One of the most useful features is DP-in, which expands how the tablet can be used. The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max can connect to a computer and serve as a secondary display. It can also work with gaming devices or be used as a digital display when paired with a stylus.

This makes the 13.3-inch screen more than a tablet display. It can become a portable workspace, secondary monitor, or entertainment screen depending on the situation.

For users who frequently switch between a laptop, desktop, gaming device, and tablet, this flexibility could be one of the tablet’s biggest advantages.

Is the Large Size a Problem?

The 13.3-inch form factor does have one obvious drawback: portability in the traditional tablet sense. Its larger body makes it less comfortable to hold for extended periods, particularly when using it without a stand.

For gaming, reading, or watching videos for a long time, placing the tablet on a desk or stand is likely to be more comfortable. However, this limitation matters less for users who primarily want a large workspace for office tasks, creative work, or multitasking.

In other words, the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max is not designed to compete with smaller tablets purely on portability. Its strength lies in providing a much larger working area while retaining the flexibility of a tablet.

The Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max is not aimed at users who simply want the biggest tablet possible. Instead, it makes more sense for people who can take advantage of a large display and want one device that can combine tablet functionality, productivity features, creative tools, and secondary-screen capabilities.

Its 13.3-inch display is therefore more than a size upgrade. Combined with the Xring O3 chip, Surge OS 4, multitasking features, and DP-in, it gives the tablet a broader range of practical uses.

That is what makes the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max interesting: it is not just a tablet with enough power to handle work. It is a tablet designed to become a more capable part of a user’s everyday workspace.

Read Also: Xiaomi 18 Pro Max Appears on Geekbench With Snapdragon 8 Super Gen 6

The post Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro Max Review: 13.3-Inch Display Explained appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The iQOO Pad Ultra is said to feature an 8.8-inch OLED display tablet, a powerful next-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset, active cooling, and a large battery. These specifications suggest that iQOO is positioning the device toward gaming and other demanding workloads rather than as a basic entertainment tablet.

iQOO Pad Ultra Could Feature an 8.8-Inch OLED Screen

The reported iQOO Pad Ultra is expected to use an 8.8-inch OLED display, making it noticeably more compact than many current flagship tablets.

The screen is said to feature a centered punch-hole camera and extremely narrow bezels on all four sides. This design could provide a higher screen-to-body ratio while keeping the tablet relatively easy to hold during gaming or media consumption.

At the rear, the device reportedly adopts a square-shaped camera module, while an additional air outlet points to the presence of an integrated active cooling system.

Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen6 Could Power the Tablet

Performance is expected to be one of the main selling points of the iQOO Pad Ultra.

According to the leak, the tablet could become one of the first devices to use Qualcomm’s 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen6 processor. If confirmed, this would place the compact tablet firmly in the flagship performance category.

The combination of a high-end mobile platform and an active cooling fan could make the iQOO Pad Ultra particularly interesting for gaming. Sustained cooling can help a powerful chipset maintain performance during longer gaming sessions and other intensive tasks.

However, the processor name, manufacturing process, and final specifications have not yet been officially confirmed by iQOO, so these details should currently be treated as leaked information.

Large Battery and Active Cooling

The compact form factor does not appear to mean a small battery.

The iQOO Pad Ultra is reportedly equipped with a 9,000mAh-class battery, which would give the tablet a substantial power reserve for gaming, video playback, browsing, and other daily tasks.

An active cooling fan is also reportedly built into the device. This is particularly notable for an 8.8-inch tablet because the smaller chassis may have less room for conventional passive cooling hardware.

Together, the large battery and active cooling system suggest that iQOO is focusing on sustained performance rather than simply chasing a thin and lightweight design.

66W Fast Charging Also Reported

A previously certified vivo tablet carrying the model number iPA2691 is believed to be connected to the upcoming iQOO compact flagship tablet.

Another tipster, Experience More, reportedly claimed that the device will support 66W fast charging. While the relationship between the certified model and the final retail product still needs official confirmation, the charging specification would complement the tablet’s large battery.

If the 9,000mAh-class battery and 66W charging combination are both confirmed, the iQOO Pad Ultra could offer a useful balance between endurance and charging speed.

Two Color Options Reportedly Planned

The iQOO Pad Ultra is expected to arrive in at least two color options:

• Endless Black
• Star Armor Silver

The darker finish would fit the tablet’s gaming-oriented positioning, while the silver version could appeal to users looking for a more understated flagship design.

The reported square camera Deco and cooling vent should also give the tablet a distinctive appearance compared with conventional productivity-focused tablets.

iQOO Pad Ultra Could Target Gaming Users

Based on the currently leaked specifications, the iQOO Pad Ultra appears to be designed around a specific combination: compact size, flagship performance, active cooling, and long battery life.

An 8.8-inch OLED display could make the tablet easier to handle than larger 11- or 12-inch models, particularly for gaming. At the same time, the reported Snapdragon flagship chipset and cooling fan could provide the processing power needed for demanding games and applications.

This approach would also allow iQOO to differentiate the Pad Ultra from larger tablets that prioritize productivity and multitasking.

iQOO Pad Ultra: Reported Specifications

Launch Details Remain Unconfirmed

The iQOO Pad Ultra has not yet received a complete official specification sheet or launch date from iQOO. Most of the information currently available comes from Chinese industry tipsters and certification-related reports.

If the leaked specifications prove accurate, the tablet could become an interesting option for users who want flagship-level performance in a smaller tablet format. Its 8.8-inch OLED screen, reported Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen6 chip, active cooling fan, and 9,000mAh-class battery would give it a clear performance-oriented identity.

More details about the iQOO Pad Ultra, including its final specifications, pricing, launch date, and availability, are expected to emerge closer to the official announcement.

The post iQOO Pad Ultra Leaked: 8.8-Inch OLED Display, Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen6 and 9,000mAh Battery appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The newly shown model does not appear to introduce major changes to the phone’s overall design compared with the standard version. Instead, Xiaomi has focused on the material and color treatment. The ceramic edition features a light pink finish that gives the large foldable a more elegant and understated look.

Xiaomi 18 Fold Gets a Pink Ceramic Variant

Based on the images released so far, the Xiaomi 18 Fold Ceramic Edition retains the same overall body design as the regular model. There are no obvious additional decorative elements or major changes to the camera module.

The biggest difference is the color and surface finish. Its pale pink appearance gives the phone a more refined visual identity and separates it from the standard color options.

The regular Xiaomi 18 Fold is also expected to launch in Warm Gold White, Black, and Xiye Red. Xiaomi is using a design language centered around extremely narrow bezels, large-radius corners, and clean, flat surfaces.

The phone reportedly adopts a four-sided narrow-bezel design with rounded corners, while the rear camera area uses a distinctive track-shaped Deco. A flat, wraparound middle frame is intended to create a cleaner and more streamlined appearance.

Two Displays Built Around a Paper-Like Ratio

Xiaomi 18 Fold introduces a new mid-sized foldable design, giving Xiaomi another approach to the increasingly competitive foldable smartphone market. Unlike conventional book-style foldables that can become quite large when opened, the device is designed around proportions closer to a standard sheet of paper.

The phone is expected to feature a 5.38-inch external display and a 7.58-inch internal screen. Both panels reportedly follow an approximately √2:1 ratio, giving the device a more consistent viewing format when folded and unfolded.

Xiaomi is also said to use dual-layer UTG ultra-thin glass to improve durability while maintaining the flexibility required for a foldable display.

New Flagship Hardware With Xuanjie O3 AI SoC

Performance is another major focus of the Xiaomi 18 Fold. The device is reportedly set to debut with Xiaomi’s Xuanjie O3 AI flagship SoC, with early benchmark information claiming an AnTuTu score of more than 5.22 million points.

The phone is also expected to introduce LPDDR6 memory for the first time, with reported memory bandwidth reaching approximately 113.8GB/s.

If these specifications are accurate, Xiaomi is positioning the 18 Fold as considerably more than a large-screen productivity device. Its hardware is designed to support demanding applications, AI workloads, multitasking, and other advanced mobile functions.

Leica Camera System Targets Mobile Photography

Photography is another major part of Xiaomi’s strategy for its flagship foldable phones, with the new model combining Leica tuning with a high-resolution main sensor

The reported setup includes a 200-megapixel Leica main camera using a relatively large 1/1.56-inch sensor. It is joined by a 50-megapixel Leica periscope telephoto camera with 3.5x optical zoom, along with a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera.

Xiaomi is also promoting several shooting scenarios that take advantage of the foldable design.

When closed, the phone can reportedly be used in a camera-like configuration with a large 4:3 preview area. When unfolded, the external display can provide a high-resolution live preview, giving users more control over framing and posing.

The larger internal screen is also intended to support post-production and creative workflows, with Xiaomi highlighting compatibility with professional applications.

Large Battery With 67W Wired and 50W Wireless Charging

Despite its slim foldable form factor, the Xiaomi 18 Fold is expected to pack a 6,000mAh battery.

The battery is reportedly based on Xiaomi’s Jinsha River battery technology, with a silicon content of around 20% and an energy density of approximately 920Wh/L.

Charging is expected to include 67W wired fast charging and 50W wireless charging, giving users two high-speed charging options.

The combination of a large battery and high-density cell technology could be particularly important for a foldable phone, where power consumption can increase significantly when the larger internal display is used for extended periods.

HyperOS 4 and Expanded App Support

The Xiaomi 18 Fold is also expected to launch with HyperOS 4, making it one of the first Xiaomi devices to use the company’s new software platform.

Several popular applications are reportedly being optimized for the unusual screen format, including iQIYI, NetEase Cloud Music, WPS, CapCut, Wind, and Amap.

Xiaomi is also expected to introduce its XiaoAI Inspiration Ball feature on the device, adding another layer of AI-powered interaction to the foldable experience.

The emphasis on software optimization is important because foldable phones require applications to handle different screen sizes and orientations more effectively than conventional smartphones.

Stronger Hinge and Body Protection

Durability remains a key consideration for any foldable device. The Xiaomi 18 Fold reportedly uses a new-generation Xiaomi Dragonbone Hinge with a natural water-drop structure.

The device is also claimed to withstand drops from approximately 1.2 meters. Additional protection reportedly includes Xiaomi Dragon Crystal Glass 3.0 and a reinforced 7-series aluminum alloy middle frame.

These features suggest that Xiaomi is putting significant effort into addressing one of the biggest concerns surrounding foldable smartphones: long-term durability.

Xiaomi 18 Fold Price and Availability

Xiaomi has positioned the 18 Fold as its most premium smartphone to date, and the pricing is expected to reflect that positioning.

Lu Weibing has previously indicated that the phone will cost more than RMB 10,000, placing it firmly in the flagship foldable segment.

The Xiaomi 18 Fold is currently expected to be offered in several standard colors, including Warm Gold White, Black, and Xiye Red, alongside the newly revealed pink ceramic special edition.

However, Xiaomi has not yet disclosed all final details surrounding the ceramic version, including its exact price, availability, and whether it will be produced in limited quantities.

Xiaomi 18 Fold: What We Know So Far

Based on the information released so far, the Xiaomi 18 Fold combines a new foldable form factor with flagship hardware, Leica imaging, a large battery, and software designed specifically for its dual-screen configuration.

Key reported specifications include:

Xiaomi 18 Fold Ceramic Edition looks set to stand apart mainly through its premium exterior rather than a major hardware overhaul. Its most distinctive element is the soft pink ceramic finish, while the core foldable design and flagship hardware are expected to remain largely consistent with the standard Xiaomi 18 Fold.

Xiaomi has yet to confirm the complete specifications, final pricing, and availability of the ceramic model. Until those details are officially announced, the current Xiaomi 18 Fold Ceramic Edition information should be considered preliminary.

The post Xiaomi 18 Fold Ceramic Edition Unveiled With New Pink Finish and Flagship Specs appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

The interesting part is not simply the number of features packed into the earbuds. It is how those features work together for different situations. A player who spends most of the day switching between gaming, music, calls, and mobile use may care more about connection stability, comfort, microphone performance, and charging convenience than about headline specifications alone.

Designed Around Mobility Rather Than a Traditional Headset

The Adol R23 uses an in-ear form factor instead of a conventional over-ear gaming headset. According to the listed specifications, each earbud has a 30mAh battery, while the charging case carries a 230mAh battery. The complete product weighs about 43g, making the setup considerably more compact than a full-size gaming headset.

That makes the R23 particularly interesting for mobile gaming. There is no headband pressing against the top of the head, and there is less hardware to carry when moving between a desk, commute, or gaming session outside the home. Check these wireless gaming earbuds here.

The trade-off is equally important: in-ear gaming earbuds do not provide the same physical isolation or wearing experience as large over-ear headphones. Fit becomes a personal factor, especially during longer sessions.

The 13mm Drivers Have a Different Job Than Just Producing More Bass

The R23 uses 13mm drivers and is listed with a 20Hz–20kHz frequency response.

A larger driver does not automatically mean better sound, but it gives the earbud a hardware platform that can potentially produce a fuller presentation. For gaming, the more useful question is whether dialogue, effects, music, and directional cues remain distinguishable rather than whether the bass is simply powerful.

This matters in games with dense soundtracks. Explosions and low-frequency effects can easily dominate a mix, while footsteps and smaller environmental sounds require clearer separation.

The R23’s advertised 720° surround spatial audio is therefore one of its more interesting features. Rather than treating spatial audio as a simple “more immersive” label, its practical value should be judged by whether it makes directional information easier to interpret during gameplay.

Where Bluetooth 6.0 Fits Into the Gaming Experience

The Adol R23 uses Bluetooth 6.0 technology and supports HSP, HFP, A2DP, and AVRCP profiles, with a listed transmission distance of up to 10 meters.

For everyday listening, Bluetooth stability is usually more important than the version number itself. A stable connection means fewer interruptions when moving around a room, while gaming places an additional demand on synchronization between visual action and sound.

ASUS Adol R23 also provides a dedicated gaming mode with a manufacturer-listed latency of 0.03 seconds.

That figure is worth treating as a specification rather than a promise of identical latency in every phone, game, or wireless environment. Real-world performance can depend on the connected device, software, interference, and the way a particular game handles Bluetooth audio.

Still, the presence of a dedicated low-latency mode makes the R23 more purpose-built for gaming than ordinary wireless earbuds.

Spatial Audio Could Be More Important Than RGB

The RGB lighting on the charging case is easy to notice, but it is not the feature that determines whether the earbuds are useful for gaming.

The more meaningful addition is the advertised 720° spatial audio system.

For competitive games, spatial processing has a clear purpose: helping players interpret where sounds originate. A useful spatial system should make directional cues easier to distinguish without making the overall soundstage confusing or unnatural.

This is also where expectations should remain realistic. Spatial audio cannot compensate for poor game audio design, bad earbud fit, or limitations in the source device. It is best viewed as an additional layer for interpreting sound rather than a replacement for actual positional information in a game.

Call Noise Cancellation Gives the R23 a Second Use Case

The R23 is not positioned only as a gaming accessory. It also includes an intelligent call noise-cancelling system designed to separate the user’s voice from surrounding noise.

That is useful because gaming earbuds often spend as much time handling voice communication as they do game audio.

For multiplayer users, microphone clarity can be more important than extreme sound effects. A teammate needs to understand short instructions quickly, particularly when there is background noise from a room, keyboard, fan, or nearby activity.

The R23 therefore has a more practical advantage when it can move smoothly between game chat, phone calls, and ordinary media playback.

Battery Life: Understand the Two Numbers

Battery specifications can easily be misunderstood because the R23 has separate figures for the earbuds and the charging case.

The earbuds are rated for up to 5.5 hours of playback on their own, while the complete system is advertised for up to 36 hours with the charging case. The listed charging time is 1.5 hours.

This means the 36-hour figure should not be interpreted as 36 continuous hours from the earbuds themselves.

Instead, the charging case is effectively a portable energy reserve that allows the earbuds to be recharged between sessions. For people who use wireless earbuds throughout the day, that arrangement can be more useful than having a very large battery inside each earbud.

Actual runtime will vary with volume, connection conditions, gaming mode, and other features.

A Few Details That Make the R23 Easier to Place

The R23 is rated IPX5 for water resistance and has a compact listed product size of 50 × 48 × 28mm.

That makes it better suited to active everyday use than earbuds without any stated water-resistance rating. However, IPX5 should not be confused with full waterproofing. The rating does not make the earbuds suitable for submersion.

The in-ear design also gives the R23 a potential advantage for users who dislike the pressure or heat associated with over-ear gaming headphones.

Who Is the ASUS Adol R23 For?

The R23 makes the most sense for users who want one pair of wireless earbuds to cover several activities.

It is particularly interesting for:

• Mobile gamers who want a compact setup
• Players who care about low-latency audio
• Users who regularly participate in voice chat
• People who prefer in-ear headphones to over-ear models
• Commuters who want gaming and everyday listening in the same device
• Users who appreciate gaming-oriented styling without carrying a full headset

It may be less appealing to someone who prioritizes maximum passive isolation, studio-style audio, or the physical comfort of a large over-ear headset.

The More Important Question: Feature List or Balanced Experience?

The ASUS Adol R23 has an unusually dense feature list for a compact TWS gaming product. Bluetooth 6.0, 13mm drivers, spatial audio, call noise cancellation, a gaming mode, RGB lighting, IPX5 resistance, and a charging case with a claimed 36-hour total playback figure all target different parts of the user experience.

But these specifications should not be viewed independently.

The R23’s appeal comes from the combination: a portable in-ear design for mobility, a dedicated low-latency mode for games, spatial processing for directional audio, microphone noise cancellation for communication, and a charging case for longer overall use.

That combination makes it more interesting than simply another pair of Bluetooth earbuds with gaming-style lighting.

Final Thoughts

ASUS Adol R23 is best understood as a compact gaming-oriented TWS system rather than a miniature version of a traditional gaming headset.

Its strongest idea is versatility. It can be carried easily, used for mobile gaming, switched to voice calls, and returned to ordinary music or video playback without requiring a separate headset.

The 13mm drivers and 720° spatial audio target the gaming side, while Bluetooth 6.0, call noise cancellation, IPX5 protection, and the charging case address everyday practicality. The manufacturer also claims 0.03-second latency in gaming mode and up to 36 hours of total playback with the case.

For users who want a lightweight wireless gaming setup without committing to a full-size headset, the Adol R23 presents a compelling feature combination. Its real appeal, however, will depend less on how impressive the specification sheet looks and more on whether its fit, positional audio, microphone performance, and latency meet the user’s particular gaming habits.

The post ASUS Adol R23 Review: Bluetooth 6.0, 13mm Drivers and 0.03s Gaming Latency 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.

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.

Igeekphone, August 18, 2026 – Xiaomi is set to redefine the flagship smartphone landscape with its upcoming Xiaomi 18 series, bringing together cutting-edge semiconductor technology, AI-first hardware design, and unprecedented battery capacity.

According to reliable industry leaker Smart Pikachu, the Xiaomi 18 series will introduce a physical AI button across the entire lineup—a feature that signals Xiaomi’s growing commitment to on-device artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, the Pro and Pro Max variants are poised to become the world’s first smartphones powered by TSMC’s 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset, delivering a generational leap in performance and efficiency.

A Dedicated AI Button: Redefining On-Device AI Interaction

The most distinctive hardware addition to the Xiaomi 18 series is the dedicated AI button, standard across all models. Unlike software-based AI assistants that require screen unlocking and multiple taps, this physical key offers instantaneous access to AI capabilities.

According to Smart Pikachu, the button supports multi-level customizable operation logic:

• Single tap – Quick AI action

• Double tap – Secondary AI function

• Long press – Tertiary AI capability

Users can bind these gestures to various Xiaomi AI services, including:

• Xiao AI voice assistant

• Real-time translation

• Image recognition

• Document summarization

The key advantage? All of this is accessible without unlocking the screen, dramatically reducing friction for everyday AI interactions.

HyperOS 4: The Software Backbone

The AI button is expected to work in tandem with HyperOS 4, Xiaomi’s next-generation operating system. HyperOS 4 is rumored to feature deep integration with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro’s AI compute capabilities, enabling smarter system-level scheduling and more efficient on-device AI processing. Together, the hardware button and software ecosystem aim to make AI truly ubiquitous in daily smartphone use.

A Staggered Launch Strategy

In a notable departure from previous release cycles, Xiaomi is implementing a staggered launch strategy for the 18 series:

This two-phase approach is unusual for Xiaomi, which traditionally launches all variants simultaneously. Industry observers suggest the decision may be driven by supply chain considerations, with the 2nm chip’s production capacity limiting initial volumes. The standard model is expected to feature a different processor—possibly a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 or MediaTek alternative—to control overall costs and maintain competitive pricing.

Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro: The 2nm Powerhouse

The Xiaomi 18 Pro and Pro Max will debut Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, manufactured on TSMC’s advanced 2nm process node. This represents a significant milestone in smartphone silicon, with the 2nm node offering a 30% transistor density increase over the previous 3nm generation.

Detailed Specifications

Performance Implications

The 2nm process delivers substantial improvements across multiple dimensions:

• Power efficiency – Lower power consumption for sustained performance

• AI computing power – Industry-leading on-device AI capabilities

• Ray-tracing gaming – Enhanced graphics performance for mobile gaming

• Local LLM operation – Ability to run large language models locally with reduced latency

The combination of the 2nm process, Oryon CPU architecture, and Adreno 850 GPU positions the Xiaomi 18 Pro and Pro Max as the most powerful Android smartphones of 2026, with particular strengths in AI workloads and gaming.

Display: Super Pixel Straight Screen

Both Pro models will feature a new “super pixel” straight display, a technology that achieves 2K-level clarity with 1K-level power consumption—a significant efficiency gain that should translate to longer battery life without compromising visual quality.

The design adopts a large R-angle, ultra-narrow quadrilateral bezel approach, minimizing the display’s footprint while maximizing screen real estate. For users who prefer flat displays over curved edges, this is a welcome return to form.

Imaging: Dual 200MP Configurations

Xiaomi continues its push into professional-grade mobile photography with two distinct camera configurations for the Pro and Pro Max.

Xiaomi 18 Pro Max Camera System

The Pro Max stands out with its LOFIC (Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor) technology on the main sensor. LOFIC sensors excel in high dynamic range scenarios, capturing more detail in both highlights and shadows—a critical advantage for challenging lighting conditions.

Xiaomi 18 Pro Camera System

The Pro variant shares the same 200MP main sensor and telephoto macro as the Pro Max, but lacks LOFIC support. For most users, the Pro’s camera system will still deliver exceptional image quality, while the Pro Max caters to photography enthusiasts seeking the absolute best.

Battery and Charging: Industry-Leading Capacity

Battery life has long been a differentiator for Xiaomi’s flagship devices, and the 18 series takes this to new heights.

The 7000mAh battery in the Pro is particularly noteworthy given its compact form factor—achieving such capacity in a smaller device is a testament to battery density improvements. The Pro Max’s 8000mAh battery pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in a flagship smartphone, potentially offering two to three days of normal use on a single charge.

Both models support 100W fast charging and wireless charging, ensuring that even these massive batteries can be replenished quickly when needed.

Industry Context and Competitive Positioning

The Xiaomi 18 series arrives at a pivotal moment in the smartphone industry. Several key trends are converging:

1. 2nm adoption – TSMC’s 2nm process represents a significant leap in semiconductor manufacturing, and Xiaomi’s early adoption positions it ahead of competitors like Samsung and Apple in the 2nm race.

2. On-device AI – The dedicated AI button reflects a broader industry shift toward bringing AI capabilities directly to the user, reducing reliance on cloud-based services for privacy and speed reasons.

3. Battery arms race – With battery capacities approaching 8000mAh, Xiaomi is challenging the notion that flagship phones must sacrifice battery life for thinness and performance.

4. Staggered release strategy – The decision to split the launch between September and December suggests a more nuanced approach to product positioning, allowing the Pro models to capture the premium market before the standard variant competes in a broader price tier later in the year.

What to Expect at Launch

The Xiaomi 18 Pro and Pro Max are scheduled to debut in September 2026, with the standard model following in December. Key areas to watch include:

• Official pricing – The Pro models will likely command a premium, potentially exceeding ¥5,000 ($700 USD) for the base configs

• HyperOS 4 features – Deep AI integration and system-level optimizations

• Global availability – Whether Xiaomi will release these models internationally or restrict them to the Chinese market

• Alternative chip for standard model – Confirmation of whether the standard Xiaomi 18 will use a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 or MediaTek chip
  
  

Final Thoughts

The Xiaomi 18 series represents a turning point for the brand—not just in specifications, but in product strategy and vision.

With the first 2nm Snapdragon chip, a dedicated AI button, and battery capacities that dwarf most competitors, Xiaomi is signaling its ambition to lead rather than follow. The staggered launch strategy suggests a more mature product planning approach, while the Pro and Pro Max variants offer clear differentiation for different user segments.

For consumers, the Xiaomi 18 series promises next-generation performance, AI-first interaction, and unprecedented battery endurance. All eyes will be on September 2026 to see if Xiaomi delivers on its ambitious promises.

Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage of the Xiaomi 18 series launch.

The post Xiaomi 18 Series: First to Feature 2nm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, Dedicated AI Button, and 8000mAh Battery appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

That matters because televisions are not all equipped with the same audio outputs, and users don’t always want to connect a speaker in the same way. A wireless connection can keep the setup clean, while an AUX connection can provide a straightforward wired alternative.

The SoundBond A108 combines these two connection methods with 20W output, dual diaphragms, and a 4000mAh battery, making it more versatile than a speaker designed exclusively for permanent wired TV use.

What Does “Dual Mode” Mean on the SoundBond A108?

For the SoundBond A108, dual mode refers primarily to its two playback/connection options: Bluetooth and AUX.

In practical terms, you can think of the two modes like this:

• Bluetooth mode: Connect a compatible TV or other Bluetooth-enabled device wirelessly.
• AUX mode: Connect the speaker to a compatible audio source using a 3.5mm AUX connection.

This gives the A108 two different ways to receive audio instead of forcing users to rely on only one connection standard.

That distinction is important. “Dual mode” doesn’t necessarily mean that the speaker produces two different sound profiles or that it automatically combines two audio sources. Instead, it gives you two ways to connect and play audio.

Why Have Both Bluetooth and AUX?

At first glance, Bluetooth might seem sufficient for a modern TV speaker. However, wired and wireless connections each have their own advantages.

Bluetooth: Cleaner and More Flexible

Bluetooth removes the need for an audio cable between the TV and speaker.

If your compatible television supports Bluetooth audio output, you can pair it with the A108 and avoid running an AUX cable across your TV stand.

The same wireless capability can also make the speaker useful beyond television watching. For example, you can potentially use it with compatible smartphones, tablets, computers, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

This makes the A108 less of a single-purpose TV accessory and more of a multi-use wireless speaker.

AUX: A Simple Wired Alternative

AUX provides the opposite approach.

Instead of pairing devices wirelessly, you connect the speaker directly to a compatible audio output using a cable.

This can be useful when:

• Your TV doesn’t support Bluetooth audio.
• You prefer a wired connection.
• You don’t want to deal with Bluetooth pairing.
• You are connecting the speaker to another compatible audio source.
• You want a straightforward connection that doesn’t depend on wireless pairing.

For households with older or mixed-generation devices, having AUX available can be particularly useful.

SoundBond A108 Bluetooth vs AUX

The easiest way to understand the A108’s dual-mode design is to compare the two connection methods.

Neither mode is universally better.

The right choice depends on your television, your preferred setup, and how you intend to use the speaker.

Does Bluetooth Make the SoundBond A108 More Than a TV Speaker?

Yes, potentially.

The inclusion of Bluetooth is significant because the A108 isn’t restricted to receiving audio from a television. Its 4000mAh battery also makes the design more suitable for moving the speaker between locations than a conventional permanently powered TV speaker.

For example, you could use the A108 in a living room for television audio and later use it for wireless music playback from another compatible device.

That creates a useful distinction between a TV speaker and a speaker that happens to work well with a TV.

The former is usually designed around one primary purpose. The latter can fit into several different listening scenarios.

What Does the 20W Output Add?

The A108 is rated at 20W output power, which gives some context for where the speaker fits in the market.

However, wattage alone doesn’t determine sound quality.

A speaker’s actual listening experience also depends on factors such as:

• Speaker design
• Driver configuration
• Enclosure design
• Audio tuning
• Listening distance
• Room size
• Source quality

Therefore, it would be misleading to assume that a 20W speaker will automatically sound better than every TV’s built-in speakers.

The more useful question is whether the A108 provides a practical external audio solution for your particular viewing environment.

For a bedroom, study, apartment, or other relatively compact space, a dedicated external speaker can be an attractive alternative to relying exclusively on small TV-integrated speakers.

What Are the Dual Diaphragms For?

The SoundBond A108 also features dual diaphragms.

A diaphragm is the part of a speaker driver that moves in response to an electrical audio signal and creates changes in air pressure that we hear as sound.

Having a dual-diaphragm design is therefore part of the A108’s acoustic construction, rather than another meaning of “dual mode.”

This distinction is worth emphasizing:

Dual mode describes the speaker’s connection/playback options, while dual diaphragms describe part of its hardware design.

They are two completely different features.

Is Bluetooth Always the Best Choice for TV Audio?

Not necessarily.

Bluetooth is convenient, but television compatibility should always be checked before assuming that any TV can send its audio to a Bluetooth speaker.

Some televisions support Bluetooth audio output, while others may have different connection limitations.

If your TV supports compatible Bluetooth audio transmission, the A108 can provide a convenient cable-free setup.

If it doesn’t, the AUX option may provide an alternative—provided the television has a compatible audio output.

This is one of the strongest reasons to have both connection methods available.

When Should You Use Bluetooth Mode?

Bluetooth is particularly attractive when you want:

A cleaner TV setup

Without an audio cable running from the television to the speaker, the area around the TV can look less cluttered.

Easy switching between compatible devices

Bluetooth can make the speaker useful for more than television audio.

Greater portability

Because the A108 has a built-in 4000mAh battery, wireless operation fits naturally with moving the speaker around.

A simple entertainment setup

For users whose television already supports Bluetooth audio output, wireless pairing can be an easy way to add an external speaker.

When Does AUX Make More Sense?

AUX is worth considering when:

• Your television doesn’t offer suitable Bluetooth audio output.
• You prefer a wired connection.
• You want to avoid wireless pairing.
• Your audio source has a compatible AUX output.
• The speaker will normally stay close to the TV.

In other words, AUX isn’t an outdated feature that has no purpose simply because Bluetooth exists. It gives the A108 another compatibility path.

Is the SoundBond A108 Really a “Dual-Mode” TV Speaker?

Yes, but the phrase should be interpreted correctly.

The A108’s dual-mode concept is best understood as two connection choices rather than two separate speakers or two independent sound systems.

You have:

Bluetooth → wireless audio

and

AUX → wired audio

That flexibility is arguably more important than the marketing phrase itself.

A TV setup can change over time. You might upgrade your television, move the speaker to another room, connect a laptop, or decide that you no longer want cables around your entertainment center. Supporting both connection methods gives the A108 more room to adapt.

Who Can Benefit Most From the A108?

The SoundBond A108 may make the most sense for users looking for a compact external TV speaker with flexible connectivity.

It is particularly interesting for:

• People who want an alternative to built-in TV speakers
• Users with Bluetooth-capable televisions
• People who still want a wired AUX option
• Bedroom or small-room TV setups
• Users who want a speaker that can also work with other compatible devices
• People who value portability and don’t want a permanently wired speaker

It’s less about replacing a high-end home theater system and more about providing a flexible, relatively simple audio solution.

Final Verdict: Dual Mode Is About Flexibility

The most important thing to understand about the SoundBond A108 Dual Mode TV Speaker is that “dual mode” isn’t simply a marketing term for better sound.

It refers to the ability to use Bluetooth or AUX depending on the device and situation.

That makes the A108 more adaptable than a speaker with only one connection method. Bluetooth provides a cleaner wireless setup, while AUX offers a straightforward wired alternative. Combined with 20W output, dual diaphragms, and a 4000mAh battery, the A108 is positioned as a versatile speaker that can serve both TV and general audio purposes.

Before you wonder which mode sounds better on the A108, pause and ask yourself a more practical question: Which connection actually fits my TV and my daily listening habits? That’s where the A108’s dual-mode design truly shines—it’s not about choosing the “better” sound, but about choosing the smarter connection for your setup.

The post SoundBond A108 Dual Mode TV Speaker Review: What Does Dual Mode Actually Mean? appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.