Xiaomi puts up the XR, XS and XS Max for sale, and those aren't just phones

iPhones have never been what you'd call affordable and this year is no different with the iPhone XR, XS and XS Max. In China in particular, the latest Apple smartphones start at CNY 6499 ($946), CNY 8699 ($1266), and CNY 9599 ($1397), respectively. But in China, there's also Xiaomi, and Xiaomi has its own XR, XS, and XS Max to offer. In a clear dig at Apple, the Chinese maker has put up electronics bundles named like the latest iPhones, and priced them the same as what Apple charges for them. Xiaomi XR bundle So for the price of the least expensive 2018 iPhone, Xiaomi's XR...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_puts_up_the_xr_xs_and_xs_max_for_sale_and_those_arent_just_phones-news-33279.php

Silver Samsung Galaxy Note9 will be stepping outside the US

A few days ago a rumor flew by suggesting that there's a silver-colored version of the Galaxy Note9 headed to US shores. It looks pretty nice and the S Pen matches the device's color as well. But if you're disappointed by the limited availability because you really liked the color, you might be in luck after all. The latest report claims that the handset will step outside of the US and will be made available to a lot of other markets. However, it remains unclear whether the silver option would be available on the 128GB and 512GB model or just on one of those. Here's the supposed...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/silver_samsung_galaxy_note9_will_be_stepping_outside_the_us-news-33278.php

Xiaomi with another teaser video of the Mi 8 Youth Edition

Xiaomi seems to be hyping up for its September 19 event when yet another alteration of the original Mi 8 will be announced. The Mi 8 Youth is expected to be even cheaper than the Mi 8 SE with a price tag hovering around CNY 1,999 ($290) and most of the specs are already known. And judging by the teaser from yesterday and today's one, the design would be the key feature. Yesterday's teaser showed a mesmerizing gradient-colored glass back while today's video showcases the device in stylish gunmetal gray, although the video is pretty much the same. Source (in Chinese)

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_with_another_teaser_video_of_the_mi_8_youth_edition-news-33277.php

Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge get Google's September security patch

Samsung's developers' team may not have Android 9.0 Pie planned for the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge seeing as they're more than 2 years old now, but there's still some software love for the two. The latest OTA that the company is pushing, delivers the September 2018 security patch and some stability improvements to the OS. Te build number is G930FXXS3ERHD and it's been only spotted on the Galaxy S7 but will surely hit the S7 edge in the following days as well. And just like the Galaxy Note8 patch the other day, the September fix resolves 9 critical security issues and 18 that affect...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s7_and_s7_edge_get_googles_september_security_patch-news-33276.php

Samsung Galaxy A6, J3 and J7 hit US stores, Galaxy Tab A 10.5" tags along

Starting today, Samsung is expanding its mid-range portfolio on US soil by introducing three new affordable smartphones and a 10.5-inch tablet. The phones in question are the Galaxy A6, J3 and J7 while the tablet is the recently released Galaxy Tab A 10.5". All three smartphones have been released on the global market for quite some time now, but it's good to see them pop up in US stores as well because the Galaxy J7, for example, offers good value while the J3 is a decent low-end smartphone. They are all available on Samsung's official web store with prices of $359 for the A6, $169...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_a6_j3_and_j7_hit_us_stores_galaxy_tab_a_105_tags_along-news-33275.php

Pocophone F1 spotted on GeekBench running Android 9 Pie

You can't have missed the Pocophone F1 (or just Poco F1 in India) - the super affordable phone with flagship-grade hardware from Xiaomi that got us pretty impressed. Predictably, Xiaomi isn't just content with putting it out there and raking in cash, it's also hard at work on supporting the F1 from a software standpoint and an Android 9 Pie update is in the pipelines. A Pocophone F1 has shown up on GeekBench running Google's latest OS version. Pocophone F1 on GeekBench running Android 9 Pie Now, both the single-core and multi-core test results are lower than what our review...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/pocophone_f1_spotted_on_geekbench_running_android_9_pie-news-33274.php

Razer Phone 2 to be unveiled on October 10 indeed

Razer has sent out invites for a launch event to be held in Hollywood on October 10 and you can bet a Razer Phone 2 is coming. How do we know? Well, the invite has the boxy rectangular outline of the company's first phone stamped on it, which, it seems, is going to be the outline of the company's second phone as an earlier leak showed. That, plus the fact that the render from the other day had the October 10 date showing on the lockscreen. The keynote will kick off at 6:30, presumably p.m., with early previews for select folks scheduled for an hour and half earlier. October...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/razer_phone_2_to_be_unveiled_on_october_10_indeed-news-33273.php

Google possibly reveals Pixel 3 color versions

Google's upcoming Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL have leaked so much already that there haven't been many details left unknown. And now you can pretty much scratch another one off the list - the color versions. Google seems to be prepping three of those (how fitting for the Pixel 3, right?). Black, white, and something that can be described both as mint or turquoise. These have been revealed by the promo website put up by the search giant, which you can visit by hitting the Source link below. It shows outlines of phones with three separate backgrounds, and the fact that those are two-tone...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/google_possibly_reveals_pixel_3_color_versions-news-33272.php

Asus Zenfone 5z could be getting Android 9.0 Pie soon

Ever since Google released Android 9.0 Pie officially, users around the globe have been wondering when their devices will be getting the latest alteration of the Android OS. Some manufacturers put out their schedule but others stayed silent. Asus was one of the latter. Luckily, we've spotted a Geekbench score sheet of a Zenfone 5z hinting at a nearing rollout. According to the report, there's a unit that's running Android 9.0 Pie and presumably, the developers' team over at Asus is currently testing the build before releasing it to the public. In any case, that's a strong indication...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/asus_zenfone_5z_could_be_getting_android_90_pie_soon-news-33271.php

AKG unveils a trio of Bluetooth headphones: N700NC, Y500 and Y100

Samsung and AKG unveiled a new line of wireless headphones that range from large over the ear models to compact in-ear ones. AKG N700NC - over the ear Soft ear cushions with memory foam promise a high level of comfort while the Adaptive Noise Canceling tech can block out outside sounds (you can adjust how much). The AKG N700NC offer a flat-foldable design for easy portability and up to 20 hours of wireless playback with noise cancellation enabled (or 36 hours for wired playback with NC on). AKG N700NC These will be available later this year from AKG.com, Samsung.com and...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/akg_unveils_a_trio_of_bluetooth_headphones_n700nc_y500_and_y100-news-33270.php

Nokia 9 and X7 leaked front panels reveal notch-less displays

Except for the extremely fishy penta-camera setup that leaked at the beginning of this month, the Nokia 9 is a fairly mysterious device. The same goes for the rumored Nokia X7, which is believed to be the Snapdragon 710-powered smartphone that the company is readying to launch later this year. And now this - two photos of alleged Nokia 9 and Nokia X7 front glass panels giving us a good idea of how both devices would look like from the front. Oh, and the good news is that the notches are nowhere to be seen. It appears that the Nokia 9 has a very slim chin and side bezels while the upper...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/nokia_9_and_x7_leaked_front_panels_reveal_notchless_displays-news-33269.php

A new OTA update enables 4K video recording on the vivo V11 Pro

The recently launched vivo V11 Pro just received a software update that improves system stability, performance and introduces a new Smart Launcher similar to Google Now's cards. And even if the changelog doesn't mention anything about it, it enables 4K video recording as well. The patch is just 151MB big and carries a build number 1.7.6. The 4K video recording capability is a nice surprise as the phone's chipset, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 660, is fully capable of capturing high-resolution videos and we were disappointed not to see the option in the first place. Nevertheless, vivo was...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/a_new_ota_update_enables_4k_video_recording_on_the_vivo_v11_pro-news-33267.php

Realme 2 Pro to be announced on September 27

Realme has finally revealed when the next smartphone is coming after teasing it during its Realme 2 announcement. But instead of one date, the company just gave out two dates in its press invites - September 26 and 27. Surely, one of the dates is reserved for the official announcement while the other remains a mystery for now. It was confirmed by a Realme representative that the 27th will be the announcement date and even though the press invite doesn't explicitly say it's about the Realme 2 Pro, the highlighted letter clearly indicate it's the Pro we are waiting for. Via

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/realme_2_pro_to_be_announced_on_september_27-news-33265.php

Two new Huaweis at TENAA: one with 7.12" screen, the other with 6.5"

The specifications of the leatherette Huawei phone have been fully uploaded to TENAA and it is huuuge. It has a gargantuan 7.12" screen and a humongous 4,900mAh battery. Oh, and there's the much smaller Huawei Y9 (2019) as well, but more on that in a minute. Our guess is that the large phone is part of the Huawei nova series, though the hardware is mostly similar to the Honor 8X Max. The screen seems the same, down to the notch and 1,080 x 2244px resolution. Huawei ARS-TL00 (White) and ARS-AL00 (Black) The chipset is not the same, however, the octa-core CPU can clock up to...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/two_new_huaweis_at_tenaa_one_with_712_screen_the_other_with_65-news-33263.php

Plastic can be durable - Pocophone F1 torture test confirms it

The Pocophone F1 took the Android community by a storm thanks to its flagship worthy specs and exceptionally low price. But of course, to achieve such low price tag, the company had to cut some corners along the way and in this case, it's the build materials. The whole chassis is made of plastic - including the side frame - which raised some concerns over its durability. Well, the latest JerryRigEverything sees the smartphone undergo all the usual torture tests and pass them with flying colors. We all know the trade-offs and the gains of owning a plastic smartphone, but this one...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/plastic_can_be_durable__pocophone_f1_put_to_the_test-news-33262.php

Samsung will reveal a new "4x fun" device on October 11

Samsung didn't bring new phones, tablets or watches to IFA as it had announced all of them prior to that. Yet there's a new Galaxy even scheduled for October 11 and the launch of a new device has been promised: "Samsung's newest Galaxy device is bringing more ways to express yourself than ever before." So, what is it? Hard to tell. We'd be most excited to see the folding phone coming later this year. However, this seems to be an online-only event and we doubt Samsung will unveil its game-changing device with so little fanfare. Then there are the less exciting options. The Galaxy J6...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_will_reveal_a_new_4x_fun_device_on_october_11-news-33261.php

Xiaomi Mi 8 Youth stars in a teaser video

We've known that the Xiaomi is prepping a Mi 8 Youth variant of the original Mi 8 for a while now and the company even set an announcement date - September 19. Ahead of the official launch, Xiaomi published a teaser video revealing the gorgeous gradient glass back, the rear-mounted fingerprint and the horizontally-stacked camera modules. It also reminds us of the unveiling date. If you are wondering about the handset's specs, there's plenty of information out there, but we will know for sure when it comes out in a few days. Source (in Chinese)

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_8_youth_just_appeared_on_a_teaser_video-news-33260.php

A toned-down version of the Oppo R17 appears on TENAA, likely running Helio P60

Three new Oppo smartphones just passed through TENAA with model numbers PBCM30, PBCM10 and PBCT10 - all closely related to the recently launched Oppo R17 and R17 Pro although, we assume all three model numbers belong to a single device with different memory configurations. The design, appears to be a blend between the R17-series and the previous generation R15 because the back features a horizontal dual camera alignment in the upper left corner while the front has the waterdrop-styled notch. Judging by the images, we can expect a gradient glass on the back as well. All three models...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/a_toneddown_version_of_the_oppo_r17_appears_on_tenaa_likely_running_helio_p60-news-33259.php

Pre-orders for the Apple iPhone XS and XS Max are now open

Apple's new iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max are going on pre-order today and will start shipping in a week for the first batch of 30 countries. The more affordable iPhone XR will go on pre-order a bit later, on October 19, and will ship on October 26. As we found out, a bit disappointing, the new iPhone XS' are costlier than previously projected. The iPhone XS starts at the same $999/£999/€1,150 as its predecessor while the iPhone XS Max starts at $1,099/£1,099/€1,250. You can find a detailed breakdown of the prices and availability dates, and markets in our dedicated article. And if...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/friendly_reminder_preorders_for_the_new_iphones_start_today-news-33258.php

Google promotes the Pixel 3, with the number 3

Google has updated its Store page with a promo for the upcoming Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL. The promo urges you to sign up to learn more about the Pixel 3 on October 9, the date on which Google will unveil its new flagships. Of course we know a great deal about the new Pixel phones already. We've seen the bigger Pixel 3 XL in a variety of hands-ons and we know all about the silicone inside. The new Pixel phones are already getting certified with regulatory agencies so they're on track for a prompt release after the October 9 event. Thanks for the tip, JWon! Source

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/google_teases_the_pixel_3_with_the_number_3-news-33257.php

Xiaomi's Pocophone F1 is now on open sale in India

Xiaomi's Pocophone F1 has been incredibly successful in India, with its first flash sale achieving revenue of INR 200 crore in less than five minutes. But if you're not into that whole flash sale thing, here's some good news. The "master of speed" is now finally available in the subcontinent in an open sale. No more limited numbers, no more hoping you'll be able to grab a unit before each batch runs out. Just head on over to either Mi.com or Flipkart and purchase your Poco F1 whenever you feel like it. If you were expecting at least one major caveat, well, here it is. The only model...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomis_pocophone_f1_is_now_on_open_sale_in_india-news-33256.php

Razer Phone 2 looks the same as the original, leaked image shows

The Razer Phone 2 is coming this year, and that much has already been confirmed by the company making it. We've also seen a couple of benchmarks revealing a few of its specs, and now it's time for the first leaked press render showing it. Ready? Here it is. No, that's not the original Razer Phone from last year. Seriously. Here they are in another shot, side by side, first gen next to second gen. Can you tell which one is which? Spoiler alert: that's the Razer Phone on the left, and the Razer Phone 2 on the right. So if you were expecting big changes in design - or any changes...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/razer_phone_2_looks_the_same_as_the_original_leaked_image_shows-news-33255.php

Motorola Moto G7 series coming next year, G7 Play won't be tagging along

It's early, we know, but we don't mind. Some interesting info regarding the upcoming Moto G7-series appeared, saying that the new phones will be released towards the end of Q1 2019 or at the beginning of Q2 2019. What's interesting, though, is the absence of the Moto G7 Play. The vanilla Moto G7 and the plus-sized version will make an appearance as direct successors to the Moto G6 and Moto G6 Plus but the Play model seemingly won't make the cut. It seems like a logical step as this year's Moto G6 Play and Moto E5 and E5 Plus are positioned closely together and the last two are...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/motorola_moto_g7_series_coming_next_year_g7_play_wont_be_tagging_along-news-33254.php

Dissecting the Apple iPhone XR: what you gain vs what you lose

Yesterday, Apple announced three new iPhones. While the stars of the keynote were definitely the iPhone XS and the iPhone XS Max, it's really the cheaper iPhone XR that caught my eye. There are a number of reasons for this. There is, of course, the lower price but also the fact that on the surface it doesn't seem as if you are losing out on a lot. And then there are the colors, which are rare to see on iPhones, not since the ill-fated iPhone 5c. Of course, there's more going on here than that and it's worth dissecting to see if what you're really getting with this model and what...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/discussing_the_iphone_xr_what_you_gain_vs_what_you_lose-news-33252.php

New Huawei phone with leatherette back, teardrop notch spotted at TENAA

TENAA has just received an interesting phone from Huawei - one with a leatherette back, complete with faux stitching. There's only photos for now, but this device is interesting for more reasons than its old-fashioned back. Huawei ARS-XXX arrives at TENAA with a leatherette back For one, check out that teardrop notch. Only the Honor 8X Max has such a notch in Huawei's lineup and that one is technically part of the Honor sub-brand. This device has a "Huawei" label on its back. Also in white Going by the dual camera arrangement (with the "AI camera" label), this is...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/new_huawei_phone_with_leatherette_back_teardrop_notch_spotted_at_tenaa-news-33251.php

Check out the official iPhone XS, XS Max and XR promo videos

At a packed event yesterday Apple introduced three new iPhones and a re-designed Watch Series 4 so there's plenty to digest. But if you happen to be one of those people who missed it, the official videos on Apple's YouTube channel can help you catch up quickly. The first one is about the iPhone XS, XS Max and XR and showcases all the important features of the handsets - displays, cameras and design. The next one is about the new Apple Watch Series 4. Unlike the last three generations, this one gets not only under the hood changes but also a design update allowing a larger...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/missed_last_nights_apple_event_catch_up_with_these_iphone_xs_xs_max_and_xr_videos-news-33250.php

Deals: get 10% off any smartphone or smartwatch bought on eBay

The prices of the new iPhones are pretty steep, especially in Europe. The older models got cheaper, but not by much. But wait - eBay is offering a 10% discount on all smartphones and all smartwatches. The deal expires today at midnight. There are conditions to using the PHONE10 code, of course. You need to be a registered user on eBay.de or eBay.at, but you can live in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands or Poland. The code can be used only once and the maximum discount is €50 (so for devices over €500 you won't get the full 10% off). Check out all the terms & conditions. So,...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/deals_get_10_off_any_smartphone_or_smartwatch_bought_on_ebay-news-33253.php

Sony Xperia XZ3 review

Few phones can claim they caused quite as big of a stir as the Xperia XZ3. After Sony dropped its first curved OLED Xperia, seemingly out of the blue at IFA 2018, reactions have ranged from overwhelming excitement, through confusion and all the way to denial and anger. That's a level of drama typically reserved for soap operas or celebrity gossip and it all spells out one thing - a massive wave of exposure for Sony.

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/sony_xperia_xz3-review-1822.php

One fewer: the OnePlus 6T will not have a headphone jack, Carl Pei confirms

"Never settle" sounds like a permanent promise, but things change. The OnePlus 6T will not have a 3.5mm headphone jack, says co-founder Carl Pei. And the company just unveiled a pair of affordable USB-C headphones. "Making a great phone doesn't mean putting every component available into the device," says Pei. A survey by the company revealed that more than half of OnePlus owners used wireless headphones. And it's an old survey, predating the launch of OnePlus' own Bullets Wireless headphones. The volume that was freed up by the 3.5mm jack would be use to fit new tech. Pei hints at...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/one_fewer_the_oneplus_6t_will_not_have_a_headphone_jack_says_carl_pei-news-33249.php

Apple iPhone XS, XS Max and XR announcement coverage wrap-up

Did you watch the Apple event last night? We saw new iPhones and new Apple Watches as well. Check out this official 4 minute video introduction, highlighting the new iPhone features. There's an intro video for the watch as well. Let's start with the iPhones. Here's a three-way comparison between the new models: iPhone XS Max vs. iPhone XS vs. iPhone XR. You can find links to the individual specs, plus more comparisons below. Also, the all-important pricing information. And don't miss out on the first benchmarks, which reveal the RAM capacities (something that Apple traditionally omits from...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_xs_xs_max_and_xr_announcement_coverage_wrapup-news-33248.php

Galaxy A7 (2017) is getting a follow-up after all, according to a Bluetooth certification

It's been nine months since the beginning of 2018 and this is the first solid evidence that Samsung is readying a follow-up to the Galaxy A7 (2017). The 2016 and 2017 versions all launched at the beginning of each year while the 2018 model seems to be delayed more than half a year. According to a Bluetooth certification sheet, the device is on its way and we are pretty sure the SM-A750N and SM-A750FN are model names belonging to the Galaxy A7 (2018) despite the fact that Samsung changed its naming scheme for the A-series this year with the release of the Galaxy A6 (2018) and Galaxy A8...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/galaxy_a7_2017_is_getting_a_followup_after_all_according_to_a_bluetooth_certification-news-33247.php

New iPhone XS, XS Max and XR benchmarked, RAM revealed

In typical Apple fashion, the iPhone XS announcement of its trio of iPhones, the company didn't give much specifics about its chipset outside of the 7nm process and their core count. But RAM and clock speeds weren't confirmed. Luckily, a Geekbench listing is here to fill in the gaps. Two benchmark sheets reveal the multi and single-core performance of the new A12 chipset powering the iPhone XS, XS Max and XR as well as the RAM on board. iPhone XS Max and XR benchmark results As expected, there's not much improvement in the multi-core performance but the single-core score is...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/new_iphone_xs_xs_max_and_xr_benchmarked_ram_revealed-news-33246.php

It's 2018 and Apple still doesn't provide fast charger with its iPhones

Yesterday, Apple announced three new models of the iPhone with varying feature set. But one thing among them is common: they all ship with the same charger. The charger in question is the same 5W unit that Apple has been providing for several years now. It is one of the lowest power output chargers you can get on any phone today and is seriously slow. Apple added support for fast charging on the iPhone with the launch of the iPhone X and iPhone 8. These devices support USB Power Delivery protocol and can take advantage of USB-C chargers, such as Apple's own 30W USB-C Power...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/its_2018_and_apple_still_doesnt_provide_fast_charger_with_its_iphones-news-33245.php

LG V40 ThinQ officially coming on October 3

Okay, we were expecting LG to spill the beans soon given that its V40 ThinQ is collecting regulatory approvals from the NRR and the FCC but we weren't expecting it so soon. In a blog post on its official website, the company scheduled an event to announce its new flagship. The date is October 3 and the event will be held in New York followed by a secondary launch in Seoul, South Korea on the next day. The invitation comes in the form of a video that hints at a triple camera setup. We've also had some revealing reports for the past few weeks as well as alleged press renders, but...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_v40_thinq_officially_arrives_on_october_3-news-33244.php

Samsung Galaxy Note8's latest update introduces Super Slow-Motion and AR Emojis

Samsung just started gradually rolling out an OTA update for last year's Galaxy Note8 and it's an important one. Reportedly, the first stop is France, but we expect it hit other markets soon enough. The patch weighs in at around 712MB, has a build number N950FXXU5CRHA and carries two new exciting features that weren't previously available to the handset - AR Emoji and Super Slow-Motion video capture. Both are pretty self-explanatory and have been made available for the Galaxy S9-series and the new Galaxy Note9 since launch. However, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ received an OTA update...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_note8s_latest_update_introduces_super_slowmotion_and_ar_emojis-news-33243.php

Apple Watch Series 4's ECG feature will be unavailable at launch, US-only when it arrives

At its big event yesterday, Apple announced its Watch Series 4 and focused a lot on its ability to do EKG readings - an impressive feat and a first of its kind on a smartwatch. The new Apple Watch performs an ECG in 30 seconds by combining the built-in heart rate sensor, electrodes embedded in the digital crown and a special ECG app. On stage, Apple later admitted that the ECG functionality will arrive later this year, meaning that Apple Watch Series 4 will not have the feature at launch. But what Apple didn't mention on stage is that the ECG functionality of the Apple Watch Series 4...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_watch_series_4s_ecg_functionality_will_be_usonly_at_least_at_the_beginning-news-33242.php

You can get iOS 12 before its September 17 rollout

During its annual iPhone event, Apple announced that it will release iOS 12 to the general public on September 17. But Apple is currently seeding the Golden Master build of iOS 12 for developers and users enrolled in the Public Beta program. This will likely be the final build of iOS 12 that will get released to everyone in a few days time. So if you're eager to get your hands on iOS 12 and you can't wait four days to do it, you can just enroll in the Public Beta Program and update to the Golden Master build. Thanks for the tip!

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/you_can_get_ios_12_before_its_september_17_rollout-news-33241.php

LG V40 ThinQ stops by the FCC in the US, hints at nearing launch

The LG V40 ThinQ is the next flagship from the company and we've seen plenty of leaks for the past few weeks. We've have a good idea of what it would look like, especially thanks to these rumor-based CAD renders. Specs aren't a secret as well so the latest FCC listing only comes to confirm that the announcement is very close indeed. The model number is LM-V405UA and with it already getting the needed certifications, we expect to see it go official sometime in October. Source

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_v40_thinq_now_stops_by_the_fcc_in_the_us_hints_at_nearing_launch-news-33226.php

Sony Xperia Ear Duo can read out your notifications on iOS and Android

Sony has updated the Xperia Ear Duo software on both Android and iOS. The biggest change is that the wireless earphones can read out notifications from the phone - who's calling you or even the text you just received. Another neat trick is that you can assign one of the commands to "current time", so you can check the time without having to reach for your phone. Voice notifications on iOS • 'Current time' action • Dynamic Normalizer toggle The Ear Duo can mix the sound of your music with the sounds of the outside world so that you remain aware of your surroundings. To improve...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/sony_xperia_ear_duo_can_read_out_your_notifications_on_ios_and_android-news-33228.php

Honor aims to deliver first 5G phone in 2019, make the top 3 globally by 2022

Everyone is preparing for the arrival of the 5G networks next year. Almost all major brands have pledged to deliver a 5G ready smartphone in 2019 as China, the USA and other countries are looking to launch their next-generation networks that will drive the AI and IoT to new heights. And Honor makes no exception. During an INS Conference in Hong Kong, the president of Honor, George Zhao, said that the company will be ready to deliver a 5G-capable smartphone next year. As a man who's coming from the telecommunication carrier's business and has seen the shift from 3G to 4G network, he...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/honor_is_eyeing_a_spot_in_the_top_3_worldwide_by_2022_thanks_to_5g-news-33229.php

Apple will no longer provide Lightning to 3.5mm adapter with the iPhone

Apple will no longer provide the Lightning to 3.5mm adapter with the iPhone. A quick look at the spec sheets on Apple's website confirms that the adapter is no longer listed among the accessories that come bundled in the box. This applies to all the iPhone that are part of the 2018 lineup, including the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7 and the iPhone 7 Plus. The last two iPhones that had a headphone jack are now discontinued. The Lightning to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter, as it is called, as been part of the iPhone packaging since the...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_will_no_longer_provide_lightning_to_35mm_adapter_with_the_iphone-news-33240.php

Apple discontinues the iPhone X, iPhone 6s and the iPhone SE

Apple today announced the launch of three new smartphones for 2018, the iPhone XS, the iPhone XS Max and the iPhone XR. You can read more about them here and here. However, what's not on sale anymore is equally interesting. Usually, when Apple launches a new smartphone, the previous year's model gets a sizable price drop and a second tier status. This year, that did not quite happen. The iPhone X from last year has been discontinued entirely. Apple would have taken a bit of a hit on its profit margins by selling the iPhone X for a reduced price this year as the cost of materials...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_discontinues_the_iphone_x_iphone_6s_and_the_iphone_se-news-33239.php

Huawei trolls Apple, thanking it "for keeping things the same"

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few hours, you know that today was a big day for Apple. The company announced the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR, three new devices that look a lot like last year's iPhone X (from the front, at least). Huawei didn't take long to respond, cheekily thanking Apple "for keeping things the same" through its official Twitter account. Thank you for keeping things the same. See you in London. 16.10.18 #HigherIntelligence #HUAWEIMate20 pic.twitter.com/ZhZHj9Xg3s— Huawei Mobile (@HuaweiMobile) September 12, 2018 Obviously, what the...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/huawei_trolls_apple_thanking_it_for_keeping_things_the_same-news-33238.php

Here's how Dual SIM works on the iPhone Xs and Xs Max

For the first time ever, Apple has announced iPhones with Dual SIM functionality. The new iPhone Xs and iPhone Xs Max have this built-in, but in most places it won't necessarily be what you might expect. See, the iPhones come with just one physical SIM slot as usual. It's just that this is augmented with an eSIM. So if at least one of the carriers you intend to use supports the eSIM standard, then you can take advantage of the Dual SIM function. Otherwise, you're out of luck. The good news is that more and more carriers should start waking up to the eSIM reality. The bad news is that,...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/heres_how_dual_sim_works_on_the_iphone_xs_and_xs_max-news-33237.php

Apple HomePod update adds Siri improvements and phone calls

Apple today announced new features for the HomePod home speaker system. The company improved the Siri voice assistant feature on the HomePod, which gained a few new features. One of them is 'Search by lyrics‘, which lets you say something like "play the song that goes like this..." or "play the song that goes ‘I'm a rebel just for kicks now.'" and Siri will search the iTunes lyrics database and play the relevant song. The feature is currently only available in English. Another new Siri feature is a much-requested one. Previously, you could set just one timer at a time from the HomePod but...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_homepod_update_adds_siri_improvements_and_phone_calls-news-33234.php

iPhone XS, XS Max and iPhone XR release dates and pricing roundup

Apple just unveiled another trio of iPhones but this time all are deriving from the original iPhone X. They are called iPhone XS Max, iPhone XS and the iPhone XR and we are now going to compare their prices across various markets. Pricing Here's what the the base 64GB models will cost you depending on where you live. Country iPhone XS iPhone XS Max iPhone XR US $999 $1,099 $750 Canada CAD 1,379 CAD 1,519 CAD 1,029 Australia AUD 1,629 AUD 1,799 AUD...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/iphone_xs_xs_max_and_iphone_xr_release_dates_and_worldwide_pricing-news-33236.php

Here are the new prices of the iPhone 8 and iPhone 7 (and Plus models)

The new iPhone XS, XS Max and XR are official and the prices are steep. The good news is that the older models just got cheaper. Well, some of them, the iPhone X is dead - replaced by the iPhone Xs. The iPhone 8 and even iPhone 7 models live on, however, at new prices. These prices are for the base models of each device. You can check the original starting costs of the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus to compare the drop. Country iPhone 8 iPhone 8 Plus iPhone 7 iPhone 7 Plus US USD 600 USD 700 USD 450 USD 570 Canada CAD...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/here_are_the_new_prices_of_the_iphone_8_and_iphone_7_and_plus_models-news-33235.php

Apple close to shipping the 2 billionth iOS device

Apple has built stores in many countries around the world, which attract millions of customers a year. Some even serve coffee, in case you want to hang out. This has proven successful as the company's stores attract 500 million visitors each year. And they are not just there for the coffee either, Apple is on track to ship its 2 billionth iOS device. That's "billion with a B". Most of those are iPhones, but there are plenty of iPads as well. Apple Watches too. In fact, this smartwatch is the #1 watch in the world - including quartz and spring-driven watches! While Android Wear...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_close_to_shipping_the_2_billionth_ios_device-news-33233.php

Apple Watch Series 4 arrives with larger display, ceramic and sapphire back, ECG and larger displays

Three years in a row, Apple used the same design for its Apple Watches and introduced only minor hardware updates whereas this year, the company finally brought some major changes. The design concept is pretty much the same but the size grew and now allows for a larger display to fit in. Now instead of the 38mm and 42mm models, Apple offers the Watch Series 4 in 40mm and 44mm flavors accommodating 35% and 32% bigger panels, respectively. Screen size compared to last generation The new watchOS now takes advantage of the bigger screen and new watch faces show more relevant...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_watch_series_4_announced__all_with_ceramic_backs_and_ecg_monitors-news-33232.php

Apple iPhone Xr has a tall 6.1" LCD with a notch, single camera on the back

The iPhone Xr is the last of its kind - it still uses an LCD screen. But it is a tall screen (19.5:9) so you get slightly more surface area than an iPhone 8 Plus, even when you account for the notch. Apple has a new name for this display - Liquid Retina. Name aside, the pixel density is the same as the iPhone 8 Retina display (326ppi), resolution is 822 x 1,1792px (so below 1080p). This LCD panel did gain the 120Hz touch sensing and wider color gamut of its AMOLED-based siblings. There's another holdout from previous generations - the single camera - making this more of a successor to...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_xr_has_a_tall_61_lcd_screen_with_a_notch_single_camera_on_the_back-news-33231.php