New leak offers closer look at the Galaxy A8s Infinity-O glass and its selfie camera hole

The future of Samsung's mobile display tech is nothing short of exhilarating at the moment, but also equal parts confusing. After the official announcement of the eagerly-anticipated Infinity Flex Display, along with a roadmap for at least four other display designs (Infinity-U, Infinity-V, Infinity-O and New Infinity) the industry and especially the rumor vines permeating it are struggling to put their finger on the exact look of future models. Samsung's constant patent filing for even more solutions for the notch dilemma and slight design variations are only making things worse. It may...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/new_leak_offers_closer_look_at_the_galaxy_a8s_infinityo_glass_and_its_selfie_camera_hole-news-34386.php

New Coolpad m3 budget handset gets a quiet China unveiling

Coolpad has been keeping a rather low profile lately, with the possible exception of a recent patent infringement scandal with Xiaomi springing to mind. Still, that doesn't mean the Shenzhen company has stopped releasing devices, mostly potentially interesting budget offers in particular. It's just been doing so without much fanfare. The same is true for the new Coolpad M3, already on sale at JD.com for CNY 799, or just around $115. That budget price tag gets you a 5.85-inch, 1512 x 720 pixel, 19:9 LCD display, complete with a rather sizeable notch, but otherwise, surprisingly thin...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/new_coolpad_m3_budget_handset_gets_a_quiet_china_unveiling-news-34384.php

Samsung's foldable phone could end up costing over $2,500

Let's be frank here, we all knew this was coming. Foldable display tech, arguably the biggest smartphone revolution in years finally reaching end-user viable market status was bound to demand a premium. Especially in its first iteration and from a top dog, name-brand the likes of Samsung. Even so, $1925 - $2565 is beyond eye-watering. It is exuberant to say the least. Wtf 🤑#samsung #galaxy #flex #foldable pic.twitter.com/LgRHWCgeKO— 📱 🖥️ ⚙️ 🔍 🇮🇩 (@bang_gogo_) November 24, 2018 It is clear that the Samsung Galaxy...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsungs_foldable_phone_could_end_up_costing_over_2500-news-34385.php

New extensive Realme U1 specs leak leaves little to the imagination

Realme is technically a new kid on the block, depending on how much value you place on its decided branding and PR slit from parent company Oppo. After the somewhat substantial market splash the Realme 1 managed to cause, the start-up has been trying to keep the momentum going at all cost. The latest device in what seems like a constant stream of releases will be the Realme U1, as first confirmed by company CEO Madhav Sheth. Hardware-wise, we already know the Realme U1 will sport a dual-camera setup and will be based around a fairly powerful new MediaTek P70 chipset. Now a new and...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/new_extensive_realme_u1_specs_leak_leaves_little_to_the_imagination-news-34383.php

LG patents Flex, Foldi, and Duplex trademarks - could this be a foldable device?

The latest trend in smartphone manufacturing is the race to develop the first commercially available device with a flexible display that can fold in half. A handful of manufacturers including Motorola, Huawei, and Samsung have already confirmed they are working to develop a device with such a form factor. LG is the latest company to appear to have joined the race. A couple of days ago, LG filed a few names for trademark with the EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office) for three names: Flex, Foldi, and Duplex. The filing was made for class 9 products, which is an umbrella...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_patents_flex_foldi_and_duplex_trademarks__could_this_be_a_foldable_device-news-34382.php

Google Pixel 3 Lite leaks again, right next to a Pixel 3 this time

Although it has in the past said it's only focusing on the high end of the marketplace with its smartphones, Google is now working on a mid-range Pixel 3 version. This device, codenamed Sargo, has been leaked a week ago for the first time, and since then we've also seen purported camera samples. Today Sargo (which is going to be called Google Pixel 3 Lite) leaks again, this time in a shot in which it's right next to a Pixel 3. "Sargo" and Pixel 3 pic.twitter.com/MPETnj3BgL— Ben Geskin (@VenyaGeskin1) November 23, 2018 If the similarities between these two handsets are confusing to...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/google_pixel_3_lite_leaks_again_compared_to_the_pixel_3_this_time-news-34381.php

Xiaomi moves 600,000 Redmi Note 6 Pro units in first India sale

Xiaomi launched the Redmi Note 6 Pro in India a couple of days ago, and the device has so far been a resounding success in the subcontinent. In its first sale in the country, the company managed to move more than 600,000 units. That's pretty impressive, and Xiaomi expects to sell even more in upcoming sales. The Redmi Note 6 Pro is the new king of the Redmi series, which focuses on pairing good specs with very affordable prices. It starts at just INR 13,999 ($198 or €175), while packing a 6.25-inch 1080x2280 notched touchscreen, the Snapdragon 636 chipset, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_moves_600000_redmi_note_6_pro_units_in_first_india_sale-news-34380.php

Samsung unveils Galaxy Note9 in First Snow White, coming in early December

Right on schedule Samsung unveiled a white version of the Galaxy Note9. Dubbed "First Snow White" it was introduced in Taiwan and comes with a matching white S Pen. Samsung Galaxy Note9 in First Snow White The new paint job makes its debut in Taiwan and, unfortunately, that's the only location where it is available. It will land at Samsung stores and Chunghwa Telecom in the beginning of December at a price of NTD 30,900 for the 128GB model. Buying a white Galaxy Note9 before December 31 will net you a free Fast Wireless charger (normally worth NTD 1,190). Samsung...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_unveils_galaxy_note9_in_first_snow_white_coming_in_early_december-news-34379.php

The USA wants everyone else to stop using Huawei devices

After the US banned Huawei from supplying equipment in the country and then prohibited the use of Huawei and ZTE devices by government officials, Uncle Sam is now trying to persuade its allies not to use the Chinese firm's handsets and equipment as well. The information comes from people familiar with the matter and the USA has already contacted Germany, Italy, Japan and others. And this is not the first time Huawei has been under scrutiny - Australia imposed a ban on Huawei equipment just a few months ago too. The company was supposed to build Australia's 5G network. FBI's head,...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/the_usa_wants_everyone_else_to_stop_using_huawei_devices-news-34378.php

Huawei P Smart (2019) leaks in full, press renders in tow

Huawei is all set to launch a new budget smartphone called Huawei P Smart (2019) right before the end of this year. It's going to be based on the company's recently launched Honor 10 Lite in China with very minor differences. The P Smart (2019) will sport an in-house Kirin 710 SoC powering up a 6.2-inch LCD with 1080 x 2340 pixel resolution. Screen ratio is exceptionally tall - 19.9:9 with a minimalist cutout on the top for the usual sensors and the front-facing camera. Memory should be at least 4GB depending on the variant and the internal storage can go up to 64GB. Unfortunately,...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/huawei_p_smart_2019_leaks_in_full_press_renders_in_tow-news-34375.php

Night mode ON: Pixel 3 vs. Mate 20 Pro

It's going to be a strictly after-dark clash between computational photography chief Google and night mode pioneer Huawei to try and establish who takes the better (handheld) low-light shots.

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/google_pixel_3_vs_huawei_mate_20_pro_night_modes-review-1858.php

Vive Pro McLaren Limited Edition VR headset appeals to F1 fans

McLaren has a history of engaging with gamers, the latest treat is the Vive Pro McLaren Limited Edition VR headset. It features the classic orange of the famed racing team and comes with some exclusive content. This includes rFactor 2 McLaren Edition for those who want to drive and McLaren Garage VR Experience for those who want to be a part of the pit crew. One day you could become the World's Fastest Gamer (not this season, though, qualifications for the Shadow Project are over). Enough beating around the bush, how much? $1,550. Yes, that's more than the Vive Pro headset that this...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/vive_pro_mclaren_limited_edition_vr_headset_appeals_to_f1_fans-news-34373.php

Mysterious triple-cam Lenovo pops up on TENAA

Having delivered the Z5 Pro slider, many though Lenovo is done with the new hardware for the rest of the year. Apparently this is not the case and a phone with the company logo and three cameras on the back popped up on TENAA, suggesting an imminent launch. Is Lenovo launching a phone with three cameras? The new Lenovo will have a back panel, similar to the Huawei P20 Pro and the Honor Magic 2, while the screen is likely to have a waterdrop notch in the center. You can even see the earpiece tucked between the rim and the panel. Full specs are likely to appear soon on...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/mysterious_triple_cam_lenovo_tenaa-news-34369.php

Samsung Galaxy F may be exclusive to EE in the UK

With a rumored price of £1,500, there was little danger that the foldable Samsung Galaxy F would be a mass market device. Rumor has it that UK carrier EE is in talks with Samsung for an exclusivity deal, which will help spread out the cost by splitting it into monthly installments. SIM-free units will be available from EE and also from Samsung stores, the exclusivity is only for phones on contract. However, with no contract you'll have to pay the full price up front and the top-specced version of the Galaxy F is said to reach £2,000. Naturally, EE has made no official comments on...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_f_may_be_exclusive_to_ee_in_the_uk-news-34371.php

OnePlus 6T comes with an additional Fast charger for Black Friday

For Black Friday, OnePlus has a few 6T bundles and an assortment of discounts on accessories. The phone bundles include the OnePlus 6T's regular retail contents of Fast Charger, Power Cable and USB-C to 3.5mm dongle and add a second charger and cable. The High Power Bundle gives you a Mirror Black 6GB + 128GB OnePlus 6T and an additional Fast Charger and Power Cable (normally €34.90). The OnePlus 6T Double Power Bundle features an 8GB + 128GB OnePlus 6T (in either Midnight or Mirror Black) and, again extra Fast Charger and Power Cable. The last is the OnePlus 6T Power on...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/oneplus_6t_comes_with_an_extra_dash_charger_for_black_friday-news-34372.php

Oops: Huawei Mate 20 Pro fails bend test

YouTube's JerryRigEverything's latest durability test has been hotly anticipated by many as it focuses on one of the hottest smartphones of the season - the Huawei Mate 20 Pro. It ended up with an unusual result as the screen cracked during the bend test. The durability test goes as usual - Zack scratches the screen (which yields at a level 7), proceeds to the textured glass rear, which proves unscratchable with the razor blade and finally, proceeds to the bend test. The rest is for you to see in the video below. And if you are interested in some less gruesome testing - look no...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/oops_huawei_mate_20_pro_breaks_during_durability_test-news-34368.php

Xiaomi Mi Mix 3 5G version demoed

Xiaomi introduced the slider Mi Mix 3 a month ago with the bold claim the phone will arrive next year in Europe with 5G compatibility. Lin Bin, co-founder and president of Xiaomi, posted a photo on Weibo, revealing the new device managed to reach 5G speeds in a controlled environment. We see the "5G" logo in the upper right corner, while next to the clock in the upper left we see the Android Pie logo, which is probably just an update since the Mi Mix 3 is shipping with the latest OS out of the box. Posting this image, Bin assured the fans that his team can fulfill its promise. If...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_mix_3_5g_speeds_demo_run-news-34366.php

Snapdragon 8150 to be announced on December 4

Qualcomm started sending out invites for its annual summit in Hawaii. The welcome dinner is scheduled for December 3, while the actual announcements will begin on December 4. Usually, the San Diego company announces its flagship Snapdragon products on the first day, with full specs sheet following the day after and we expect the same to happen this year as well. The Qualcomm invitation The invitation included a Xiaomi VR headset that plays a neat video, sending you to Hawaii. There's also a list of activities happening in Maui - three days of keynotes will end on December...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/snapdragon_8150_announced_december_4-news-34365.php

Honor 8C arriving in India on November 29

The end of November is shaping to be fruitful for smartphone lovers in India. Huawei Mate 20 Pro goes on sale on Tuesday, the Realme U1 with Helio P70 will be introduced on Wednesday, the Asus ROG Phone is following the next day. Now a fourth phone is on its way - Honor 8C, bound to launch as an Amazon Exclusive on Thursday. The 8C appeared on October 11 in China powered by a Snapdragon 632 chipset with octa-core CPU and Adreno 506 GPU. The 14 nm SoC might be dated, but certainly isn't bad for the equivalent of $160/€140. This price is for the 4/32 GB model of Honor 8C in China that...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/honor_8c_arriving_in_india_on_november_29-news-34364.php

Samsung closed a deal with in-display FP sensor supplier for its A-series phones

The latest report going around is that Samsung is looking to equip its future A-series smartphones in 2019 with in-display fingerprint readers. Given that this is the latest trend in the smartphone world and the fact that Samsung has shifted its strategy to integrate new technologies and features in its mid-range smartphones first, that's actually not far-fetched. It's another way for the company to compete with the Chinese affordable handsets. But as per inside sources, the A-series won't be featuring the more advanced ultrasonic under-display sensors from Qualcomm that are designated...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_closed_a_deal_with_indisplay_fp_sensor_supplier_for_its_aseries_phones-news-34363.php

Asus officially teasers Zenfone Max Pro (M2), promises next generation gaming

Asus Indonesia tweeted out an official teaser for the Zenfone Max Pro (M2), which is slightly misleading and tries to suggest that the phone has a triple camera, even though it doesn't. We saw as much in the leaked video review, but if that's not enough proof, here's this leaked image. It shows pretty clearly that the third element is a flash. Official Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) teaser • Leaked image of the same The second generation Pro will be unveiled on December 11 and the tweet makes a big deal about the battery (5,000mAh capacity). It also promises a gaming flavor with a hint...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/asus_officially_teasers_zenfone_max_pro_m2_promises_next_generation_gaming-news-34362.php

Motorola 2019 phones: Moto Z4 with S8150, new Moto G7 duo

There are new Moto phones cooking and will be ready for you to enjoy in 2019. The highlights will be a new flagship, the Moto Z4, as well as a couple of Moto G7 mid-rangers. That's the story coming out of the rumor mill, anyway. The Moto Z4 promises to be a proper high-end phone with a Snapdragon 8150 chipset. That's great to hear after the Moto Z3 proved a tad disappointing. Speaking of, the Z3 will be getting 5G MotoMod and there will be one for the Z4 too. On to the next generation G-series phones. The Moto G7 recently cleared the FCC with a Snapdragon 660 chipset, 4GB of RAM and...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/motorola_phones_in_2019_rumor_recap_moto_z4_with_s8150_new_moto_g7_duo-news-34359.php

Samsung, Huawei and Apple shipped the most phones in Q3

At the beginning of the month, we showed you Counterpoint Research's numbers for the global Q3 market and today we have a further breakdown, including a cool infographic. To rehash, in the months July through September Samsung captured the most market share (19%), fending off Huawei (14%), which in turn beat Apple (12%). Oppo and Xiaomi ended on par at 9% each, beating vivo's share by a single percentage point. HDM didn't ship that many phones, but its shipments grew 73% over the same three months in 2017. The third quarter of 2018 saw 5% less phones shipped, compared to Q3 of 2017 -...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_huawei_and_apple_shipped_the_most_phones_in_q3_of_2018-news-34360.php

Huawei Mate 20 Pro goes on sale in India on November 27

Huawei will premiere its Mate 20 series in India on November 27. There's no official price yet but it looks like Huawei will partner with Amazon India for the launch of the Mate 20 Pro and Mate 20 RS Porsche Design (the Mate 20 hasn't been confirmed to arrive alongside them). Judging by the promo on Amazon Huawei will offer the Mate 20 Pro in a bundle with the Sennheiser PXC 550 Wireless Noise-Cancelling headphones. The most-awaited smartphone of the year #HuaweiMate20Pro is coming to India on 27 November 2018! Tell us, which 3 features of the king of smartphones are getting you all...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/huawei_mate_20_pro_goes_on_sale_in_india_on_november_27-news-34361.php

HTC is not leaving the mobile business, plans new phones for next year

You've not seen the last of HTC yet - the company plans to introduce one new device before the end of the year and to continue innovating in 2019. The company plans to integrate AI, blockchain and 5G technologies to strengthen its mobile portfolio. But that's for next year, this year (near the end of December) we'll see a 6GB/128GB version of the HTC U12 life. The phone is currently only available in a 4/64GB configuration. It does support microSD expansion, but it has a hybrid slot, which doesn't work for those who need the dual SIM functionality. HTC will also continue building its...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/htc_is_not_leaving_the_mobile_business_plans_new_phones_for_next_year-news-34358.php

Oppo announces bright ColorOS 6.0 with machine learning and new font

During a special event in Shenzhen, celebrating the fifth anniversary of ColorOS, Oppo announced the next installment of its launcher - ColorOS 6.0 - and mentioned that ColorOS is installed on more than 250 million devices in over 140 countries and regions. The new OS is based on light color scheme, mainly mixing a white backdrop with light color gradients. Oppo says the choice of white is meant to create an airy atmosphere. Oppo claims that ColorOS 6.0 is designed with bezeless phones in mind but it will also work on older Oppo devices. Speaking of devices, Oppo hasn't officially...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/oppo_announces_bright_coloros_60_with_machine_learning_and_new_font-news-34357.php

Apple to cut iPhone XR price in Japan, restore iPhone X production

Apple announced its financial results earlier this year, and it revealed flat iPhone sales. Along with that the company issued a very conservative guidance for the holiday sales. In an effort to arrest the slide, Apple is planning to cut the price of the iPhone XR in Japan, according to The Wall Street Journal. Carriers in the Asian country will receive subsidies to boost sales since customers are still favoring iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus. What is more interesting, is that Apple is planning to relaunch the production of iPhone X for specific markets. Price cuts at certain markets...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_cut_iphone_xr_price_japan-news-34356.php

Samsung working on the camera freezing issue on the Galaxy Note9

Ever since the launch of the Galaxy Note9 a limited number of units were plagued by freezing of the camera app - the issue seemed to affect mostly those powered by the Snapdragon 845. The good news is that Samsung acknowledged the problem and is now working on an update that should fix it. In the meantime, if you are getting the "camera failed" message in the camera app from time to time, a temporary fix involves clearing the system partition cache. The confirmation of the upcoming update comes from a moderator in the US forums, but he couldn't say anything about an update rollout...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_working_on_the_camera_freezing_issue_on_the_galaxy_note9-news-34355.php

Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) leaks on video, offers upgraded S660 chipset

Someone got the dates mixed up and a video review of the Asus Zenfone Max Pro (M2) went up before the phone's official unveiling, which is planned for December 11. The video has been taken down since, but the key details are out in the open. The phone is a sequel to the Max Pro (M1) and packs the trademark 5,000mAh battery. It does upgrade to the more powerful Snapdragon 660 chipset (up from S636) with up to 6GB of RAM and up to 64GB storage. The Zenfone Max Pro (M2) screen keeps the 6" diagonal, but stretches out to 19:9 aspect and it grew a notch in the process. This is an IPS LCD...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/asus_zenfone_max_pro_m2_leaks_on_video_offers_upgraded_s660_chipset-news-34354.php

Sprint offers free iPhone XR when you lease an iPhone X or XS, discounts Samsungs

Sprint is spreading some holiday cheer and will help you do the same - if you lease an iPhone X, XS or XS Max, you'll get a free iPhone XR. More details on that here. If, instead, you can snag a free iPhone 8 if you lease a second iPhone 8 or an 8 Plus. Onto Samsung, a Galaxy Note9 will cost you just $20 a month, down from $41.56/mo. The Galaxy S9+ is down to $10/mo and the Galaxy S9 is $5/mo. All these deals are for an 18-month lease. The LG V40 ThinQ deal comes with a free 49" LG 4K TV (worth $500). This is another 18-month lease for $20/mo. Note that this applies only for new...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/sprint_offers_free_iphone_xr_when_you_lease_an_iphone_x_or_xs_discounts_samsungs-news-34353.php

Meizu 16s flagship to arrive with Snapdragon 8150 in May 2019

Meizu introduced three phones under the 16 family - Meizu 16, Meizu 16 Plus, Meizu 16X. The first two arrived with latest Snapdragon chipset and their successor will follow suit. According to Jack Wong, company CEO, the next flagship will be called Meizu 16s and will run on Snapdragon 8150. The device should be expected in May 2019. Meizu 16s will have a similar design to this Meizu 15 The announcement came as to answer the question if the Meizu 17 is coming. Wong said a May announcement is scheduled to celebrate the 16th anniversary of the company and that's why the "17"...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/meizu_16s_snapdragon_8150_may_2019-news-34352.php

Google launches early Black Friday deals

Black Friday is knocking on the door and companies are already launching their offers for the big shopping day. Google announced its deals a week ago but decided to start its campaign a day early with some caveats. The company is offering plenty of hardware at discounted prices in the United States, but looking into further detail, it appears that not everyone will be so lucky, with the United Kingdom getting minor discounts on the Pixel 3 smartphone. The Google Pixel 3 and Google Pixel 3 XL are advertised with up to 50% off when you purchase a second device. When buying two...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/google_launches_early_black_friday_deals-news-34351.php

Verizon is gearing up to support eSIM and dual SIM activations on new iPhones

This year's trio of iPhones (XR, XS, XS Max) is the first to support dual SIM functionality to some capacity. In China and Hong Kong markets, the phones can physically hold two nano SIM cards in a dual SIM tray while the rest of the world's models have support for both an eSIM and a nano SIM. In the US, none of the major carriers are currently supporting eSIM on the iPhone since the feature isn't quite ready for the masses. The dual SIM configuration on the new iPhones in the current state do not Verizon's LTE network and instead fall back on Verizon's legacy CDMA network, which is...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/verizon_is_gearing_up_to_begin_supporting_esim_on_new_iphones_in_december-news-34349.php

Xiaomi launches Redmi Note 6 Pro in India

Xiaomi has launched the Redmi Note 6 Pro in India at an event in New Delhi. The phone will be available in two variants, 4/64GB and 6/64GB. It will be priced at INR 13,999 and INR 15,999, respectively and will be available through Mi.com and Flipkart. First Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro hands-on photos from India The Redmi Note 6 Pro will be replacing the Redmi Note 5 Pro that was launched in India earlier this year in February. This is perhaps the quickest Xiaomi has replaced a model with a successor, possibly due to increasing competition in the market. Having said that, the...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_launches_redmi_note_6_pro_in_india-news-34350.php

Instagram announced a new interface that's cleaner and simpler

Today, Instagram announced a new update coming to Instagram users. The update gets rid of some of the icons on profiles and replaces them with literal text. Rather than icons for each tab, they are now properly labeled with text, which should make them much clearer to those users who might not know what the tab icons mean. Over the next several weeks, you may see features re-arranged at the top of your profile including changes to icons, buttons, and the way you navigate between tabs, which we hope will make profiles easier and cleaner to use. Instagram is aiming to make its app easier...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/instagram_announced_a_new_interface_thats_cleaner_and_simpler_-news-34348.php

Metro announces free Airpods for Black Friday, discounts on iPhones

Metro by T-Mobile is offering deals for those looking to switch to the pre-paid MVNO. Starting on November 22, you can sign up for a Metro Unlmited account and when you port your number in and bring or purchase an iPhone, you'll get a free pair of Apple's AirPods, which are worth $159. You can buy an iPhone 6S for $49, iPhone 6S Plus for $149, an iPhone X for $750, or an iPhone 8 Plus for $549. You can also quality for the free AirPods if you bring your own iPhone to Metro. The other part of the deal is you have to "switch" to Metro so you'd have to port your line in from another...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/metro_announces_free_airpods_for_black_friday_discounts_on_iphones-news-34347.php

OnePlus 6T gets OxygenOS 9.0.6 update with improved unlocking experience and image processing

Today OnePlus has started rolling out the newest OxygenOS build for the 6T. This is OxygenOS 9.0.6, and it brings with it a bunch of improvements. Chief among those is the supposedly better unlocking experience, alongside the optimized camera image processing. You also get further optimized standby power consumption, as well as general (and unnamed) bug fixes and improvements. Issues with adding APNs on Verizon have been fixed, and apparently some units weren't getting notifications from the Play Store - that's also fixed now. As usual, the new software is enjoying a staged rollout....

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/oneplus_6t_gets_oxygenos_906_update_with_improved_unlocking_experience_and_image_processing-news-34346.php

HTC will slash prices of the U12+ and U11+ in the UK for Black Friday

Like every other smartphone company under the sun, HTC is also getting ready for Black Friday. We got word that the company's UK arm is planning some pretty big price cuts for two of its devices on that occasion. The U12+, which normally goes for £699 SIM-free, will be yours for just £566. That's £133 you're saving right there. The U11+ is usually priced at £599 SIM-free, but this weekend it will be up for grabs for only £449, saving you a cool £150. HTC's Black Friday event in the UK starts on Friday, November 23 at 9 AM and ends at midnight on Monday, November 26. The company is...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/htc_will_slash_prices_of_the_u12_and_u11_in_the_uk_for_black_friday-news-34345.php

Xiaomi Mi Mix 3 may be headed to Europe soon

Xiaomi unveiled the almost entirely bezel-less Mi Mix 3 in China in October, and now it looks like the sliding smartphone might be ready to finally become available in other markets - such as Europe. The Mi Mix 3 was certified by both the Bluetooth SIG and the EEC recently. What's more, a Reddit user posted a screenshot of a chat with a customer support rep from Amazon Germany, who told him to expect the Mi Mix 3 to be in stock on December 1. If that is indeed the planned release date for Europe, we assume that Xiaomi will announce the expanded availability of its newest flagship...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_mix_3_may_be_headed_to_europe_soon-news-34344.php

Smartphone buyer's guide: November 2018 edition

Decisions, decisions, decisions. The holiday season is upon us and 'tis the season of joy and happiness. But it could also be one of the most stressful events each year because them presents won't buy themselves, will they? That's why we decided to pitch in and hopefully make some of those decisions easier for you.

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/smartphone_buyers_guide_winter_2018-review-1857.php

A Chinese startup claims to have developed solid-state batteries

The solid-state batteries are promised to be the holy grail of modern electronics and potentially solve all our problems with fast charging, longevity and endurance. But we are still far away from a consumer-ready product. Or so we thought. Industry sources report that a Chinese startup may have found a way to mass produce solid-state batteries. The firm is called Qing Tao Energy Development Co. and comes from the technical Tsinghua University in the country. The small company has already deployed a production line in East China capable of producing 100MWh worth of cells per...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/a_chinese_startup_is_reportedly_mass_producing_solidstate_batteries-news-34343.php

First renders of Galaxy A8s show Samsung's first display with a cutout

What follows are concept renders, based on rumors. However, they come from the same source that accurately predicted the Galaxy A9 (2018) design a month ahead of its announcement so they are probably worth the benefit of the doubt. The renders show Samsung's first smartphone with an Infinity-O display on the front. Samsung has said that the Galaxy A8s will have a camera cutout placed in the upper left corner of the display. Having the front camera (and likely the ambient light sensor as well) inside the display allows the top bezels to be virtually nonexistent. The renders show a slight...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/first_renders_of_galaxy_a8s_show_samsungs_vision_for_the_future-news-34342.php

Analysts: Apple to lower iPhone XR production further

According to an investor-bound note from Rosenblatt Securities analysts, Apple should lower the iPhone XR production further, due to lower than expected sales numbers. Analysts' initial iPhone XR production estimate for this year was 90 to 95 million units, which was subsequently reduced to 88 million and now analysts suggest Apple needs to cut it down further to 74 million units. According to analysts the iPhone XR enjoyed "largely improved" sales during China's 11.11 Singles Day promos due to discounts between 10% and 15%. And analysts expect that Apple will sell a lot of...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/analysts_apple_should_lower_iphone_xr_production_further-news-34341.php

Realme U1 box images and AnTuTu benchmark score pop up

Realme is set to launch its upcoming U1 smartphone and by the looks of it, it's already out in the wild. So the latest leak is here to give us a sneak peek of the retail box, the waterdrop-styled notch and the overall performance of the new Helio P70 chipset. Alleged Realme U1 retail box The photo below shows the Helio P70 winning against Qualcomm's Snapdragon 636 chipset running on the Redmi Note 6 Pro and Huawei's HiSilicon Kirin 710 chip in the Honor 8X. Supposedly, the Realme U1 will come at a considerably lower price too as the company is known for its aggressive...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/realme_u1_live_images_and_antutu_benchmark_scores_pop_up-news-34339.php

The top Galaxy S10 models will have a ceramic back

Samsung has been using glass backs for its flagships since 2015's Galaxy S6. Starting next year, the cream of the Galaxy crop may be using ceramic instead. Not the base Galaxy S10, though - it will get glass to go with that flat screen. The curved 5.8" Galaxy S10 and the top 6.44" model (sometimes reported as 6.2") will have ceramic backs, according to the latest chatter. They will be available in Black and White, at least at first. The top of the line 5G-enabled 6.7" Galaxy S10 may also have ceramic back. More storage too, up to 512GB, but will be announced at later date. Earlier...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/the_top_galaxy_s10_models_may_have_a_ceramic_back-news-34340.php

Xiaomi is now pushing MIUI 10 to Redmi 6 Pro and 1st gen Mi Max

The second wave of devices getting the MIUI 10 update began two weeks ago and we are now receiving reports in our mailbox for various Xiaomi smartphones with the new user interface. Both the Redmi 6 Pro and the Mi Max (along with Mi Max Prime) are now receiving an update that brings full-screen gestures and other functional improvements. MIUI 10 for Redmi 6 Pro and Mi Max While the Xiaomi Redmi 6 Pro package with model number V10.0.1.0.ODMMIFH is 609 MB in size, the Mi Max patch is half of that - just 307 MB, numbered V10.1.1.0.NBDMIFI. Both versions bring new UI that...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_miui_10_redmi_6_pro_mi_max-news-34337.php

Google Play announces Black Friday deals

Black Friday is associated with lining up at stores to buy heavily discounted stuff, but there's no rule that says digital stores can't take part (plus, no lines!). Google Play is offering deals on apps, games, movies, TV shows and books. The deals vary per country and not every country can get in on the action. Go here, if you get an error page, you're not invited (sorry). So, here are some cheap ways to avoid talking to your family over the weekend. Premium games are up to 80% off with entries from some of the world's largest franchises. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is $1.49/€1.49, Star...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/google_play_announces_black_friday_deals-news-34338.php

AnTuTu shows the Samsung Galaxy M2 will have a 1080p+ display

The Samsung Galaxy M2 is starting to look better and better - specs details by AnTuTu reveal a 1,080 x 2,340px screen. That's better than the J-series phones, which have 720p displays. The Exynos 7885 chipset is better than most J phones too. The 3GB of RAM and 32GB storage combo was confirmed, the M2 is also supposed to have a 64GB version (it wouldn't surprise us if that one has more RAM). The rest is as expected - we're referring to Android 8.1 Oreo. Samsung is just now starting to update flagships to Pie, these entry-level phones will have to wait. Samsung Galaxy M2 (SM-M205F)...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/antutu_shows_the_samsung_galaxy_m2_will_have_a_1080p_display-news-34335.php

The Asus ROG Phone is coming to India on November 29

Earlier this month Asus unveiled a couple of affordable phones for the Indian market, but is now bringing the big guns - the Asus ROG Phone will launch on November 29 (that's Thursday next week). The phone will most likely be available exclusively through Flipkart, thanks to the Asus-Flipkart partnership announced earlier this year. There's no word on pricing, but we can speculate. The Asus ROG Phone is coming to India on November 29 The Asus Zenfone 5z is INR 25,000 in India and €400 in Italy (note: both prices feature discounts). The ROG Phone is €900 in Italy. So, somewhere...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/the_asus_rog_phone_is_coming_to_india_on_november_29-news-34336.php

Realme 2 Pro now also getting ColorOS update

Days after Realme started feeding a firmware update to Realme 2 and Realme C1 smartphones, the Oppo subsidiary issued an OTA package to its Realme 2 Pro smartphone. The new update brings plenty of optimizations, along with single-swipe notification dismiss, and the headset icon is finally appearing in the status bar when you are into a call. We heard you! The #MaxPowerMaxStyle update is here. The latest update for #Realme2Pro is rolling out. Don't miss it! pic.twitter.com/GrpEiL5fGE— Realme (@realmemobiles) November 20, 2018 Realme reminds you that the update will be gradually...

Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/realme_2_pro_getting_color_os_update-news-34333.php