Tag Archives: phones

HMD Skyline is a Nokia Lumia throwback with repairability at its core

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The Nokia brand was famous for its innumerable smartphone designs, some of which have stood the test of time and are being revived today. Although not as old as those, the Nokia Lumia with its blocky silhouette, curved sides, and raised 2.5D screen is just as distinctive, becoming the DNA of the product line until its demise. HMD Global, who now eagerly wants to remind everyone that its name stands for “Human Mobile Devices,” is bringing back that iconic form but with a twist. The HMD Skyline might be a blast from the past, but it is also the most forward-looking of its kind thanks to its strong self-repair spirit.

Designer: HMD

The Skyline is notable for two things. The first is, of course, is design that is both dated yet ironically fresh to people’s eyes today. The more geometric block is almost in line with art trends today, and its neon pink colorway definitely shouts for attention. Given the retro design craze gripping multiple industries, its arrival couldn’t be more timely.

This juxtaposition also shows itself in the HMD Skyline’s other strength: its easy repairability. Sure, it’s not as easy as popping off the back plate with a fingernail and swapping out batteries in a snap, but it’s still worlds apart compared to most smartphones today, including its mid-range buddies. There’s only one screw to lift the back panel, which you can gently pry off with plastic cards or guitar picks, then other connectors can be easily unscrewed or lifted. It’s probably the least risky process around when it comes to replacing the screen. And all that while still having an IP54 dust and water resistance rating.

Images courtesy of: iFixit

The irony is that HMD is positioning this Gen 2 repairability as an attractive feature for Gen Z users who, it claims, are more likely to keep their phone if they can repair it themselves. That said, this is also the generation that lives for the latest and greatest designs, convenient services, and near-instant gratification from social media. Then again, it’s also the maker culture, so there might be some DIY DNA running through their veins as well, waiting to be awakened.

The HMD Skyline’s specs are a bit less impressive, but it’s actually almost a miracle that some of them are even there. The 6.55-inch 1080p, for example, is capable of 144Hz refresh rates, and its 4,600mAh battery supports magnetic wireless charging. There’s a massive 108MP camera teamed up with a 50MP telephoto shooter and a 13MP wide-angle camera. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, however, clearly marks it for the mid-range class. All things considered, the $500 Android phone isn’t as bad a deal, especially if you’re truly into retro designs that you plan on maintaining for a very long time.

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Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 Hands-on Review: Thin in Size, Big in Everything Else

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Despite what naysayers claim, there foldable phone market is showing no signs of disappearing or even slowing down. After all, we’ve barely scratched the surface of what these form-changing devices can truly become, especially when it comes to design. The book-style large foldable has been around for years, yet every generation still has some improvement to offer, whether it’s in durability, performance, or size. “Thin” is a description not often associated with this kind of smartphone, a kind that once felt like two phone slabs placed on top of each other. The Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 is challenging that preconceived notion with what is one of the thinnest foldables in the market, and we were able to get a hands-on experience to see what the fuss is all about.

Designer: Xiaomi

Blurring the lines between Foldables and Ordinary Phones

Next to the price tag and durability, one major concern that people have with foldable phones is their sizes. Admittedly, the earliest design iterations didn’t have the benefit of hindsight, but they were rather bulky and heavy when folded, a far cry from the regular phones we carry in our pockets. On its fourth generation, Xiaomi is really pushing the limits of foldables with a design that is getting really close to what people have become used to with non-foldable phones.

The Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 is crazy thin when laid open flat at 4.59mm, and with a 9.47mm thickness when folded close, it’s just 1mm shy of traditional phones. It’s also only 226g light, which is slowly getting closer to our definition of “normal.” Xiaomi credits no less than three technologies for this feat, like using lightweight yet durable carbon fiber materials in a few key parts. That said, the cover screen’s 21:9 aspect ratio still falls under the “tall and narrow” shape that has made many foldables like this a bit awkward to use. Aside from that, however, it’s really refreshing and delightful to hold such a thin and lightweight device.

More (Power) for Less (Space)

There are several consequences to shrinking the space inside a phone, from having less room for the battery or constricting airflow and affecting cooling. That’s even more problematic for foldable phones that have split their components, especially the battery, on two sides. You’d expect that a thinner foldable would have fewer features, but Xiaomi managed to surprise us yet again.

It’s already expected that the MIX Fold 4 will have the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and high-end memory, but getting a 5,100mAh battery that’s larger than its thicker predecessor is pretty impressive. Xiaomi didn’t skimp on the screens either, both with nearly identical capabilities, save for their sizes and aspect ratio. Unfortunately, our brief experience with the large foldable did disappoint us with a visible crease, a design flaw that’s already being squeezed out of other foldables. To be fair, though, you get used both to the appearance and even the feel of the crease so your mind begins to filter out its presence.

Big in Photography

Whatever improvements Xiaomi made when it came to making the MIX Fold 4 extra-thin goes out the window when you see how thick the camera bump is, almost as thick as the (unfolded) phone itself. The raised box has a somewhat asymmetrical design where the lower edge curves down ever so slightly. There’s a grid pattern on the glass surrounding the cameras, and it’s actually a texture that you can feel with your finger. It’s a nice touch, but one that seems a bit out of the left field.

You will, however, forgive that slight design oddity when you witness the results of the four cameras on the MIX Fold 4’s back. There’s a 50MP main shooter with all the bells and whistles you’d expect, and it’s joined by not one but two 50MP telephoto cameras, one with a floating-style lens used for portrait and macro photography, the other with a periscope-style lens with 5x optical zoom. The ultra-wide camera has a 12MP sensor that’s admittedly just a small step higher than the typical measly 8MP. It still needs rigorous testing for verification, but what we’ve seen so far is enough to consider that large camera bump well worth the sacrifice.

Final Thoughts

Almost everyone (except Apple, of course) is making a foldable phone these days, and the competition is heating up as more players join the race. It’s no longer enough to just have the latest specs or a durable hinge, you also need to push the envelope of design and performance to catch up with non-foldable flagships. With one of the thinnest and lightest designs in this segment and a quad-camera system that could be on par with the latest and greatest, the Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 is inching closer to that ideal where there will be very little reason to opt for a non-foldable phone.

While we had to part ways with the MIX Fold 4, be sure to be on the lookout for our review of the Xiaomi MIX Flip, the brand’s first foray into the land of compact clamshell foldables.

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Google’s Official ‘Made by Google’ Event on August 13: Here’s What the Pixel 9 Pro and Fold Look Like

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With Google officially announcing the “Made by Google” event on Aug. 13, excitement is high for the new Pixel lineup. This year, Google is shaking things up by revealing the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro series earlier than usual, likely aiming to capture attention before the expected iPhone 16 launch in September.

Designer: Google

In addition to the Pixel 9 Pro, Google is also unveiling the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, accompanied by a Gemini-linked teaser video. While leaks have provided glimpses of these devices, Google’s announcement finally puts to rest any speculation about their appearance and names. The teaser video highlights the double-stacked lenses on the rear camera module and the exterior screen and hinge design.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold marks a noticeable change from its predecessor. It adopts a taller and narrower profile than the original’s short and wide passport-style form factor. This new design aligns more closely with devices like the OnePlus Open, offering a larger, more practical outer display that enhances usability.

One of the most striking changes is removing Google’s signature camera bar. The first-generation Pixel Fold featured a prominent, elongated camera bar, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold opted for a new, more streamlined camera housing. This redesign provides a cleaner aesthetic and ensures the phone remains stable when laid flat.

Examining the new model’s inner display, there’s still a noticeable crease, although it appears less prominent. The screen ratio has shifted to a taller and narrower format, with slimmer bezels for a more modern look. However, this change includes an inner camera cutout on the upper-left part of the display instead of being part of the bezel, which might not please everyone.

The first-generation Pixel Fold’s short and wide design made it a great one-handed device despite its weight. However, its cover screen was often too wide to comfortably hold for extended periods. In contrast, the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s taller form factor should enhance ease of use and portability.

A potential concern with the new model is its slightly smaller battery capacity of 4,560mAh compared to the first Fold’s 4,727mAh. Given that the original wasn’t known for its battery longevity, this reduction might raise some concerns. However, Google’s latest Tensor processor promises efficiency gains that could help mitigate this issue.

Alongside these design changes, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a new 45-watt USB-C charger. This new charger, which sports a more rounded design than its predecessors, is part of Google’s effort to improve charging speeds and overall user convenience.

Having used the first-generation Pixel Fold extensively, I can attest to its decent quality despite its drawbacks, such as dim screen brightness, subpar speakers, and limited app optimization. With the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google can address these issues and deliver a more refined and competitive product.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant step forward in design and functionality. By transitioning from the unique but bulky passport form factor to a more practical and user-friendly design, Google is making strides to compete more effectively in the foldable phone market. We’ll have to wait and see how Google plans to structure the pricing this time, but here’s hoping the new model looks impressive and delivers on performance and user experience.

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OnePlus Nord 4 Design Story: Metal Unibody for an Emotional, Burdenless Experience

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With the way how cameras on the back of the phones seem to be dancing around, or how every new model has some innovative glass-etching process, you’d think that the smartphone design field is bursting with activity and changing at every turn. You’d be partially correct, at least if only external appearances are concerned. In one important aspect, however, phone design has somewhat stayed still, held back by the demands of technology. Phones these days are either made up of glass and plastic covers on top of metal or plastic frames, with all-metal designs almost just a footnote in history. As one that never settles for anything less, OnePlus embarked on a bold and ambitious quest to design the first and so far only 5G phone with a metal unibody, a journey that took them back not only through the history of smartphone design but also through the history of human innovation.

Designer: OnePlus

Mobile Innovation, Material Stagnation

It wasn’t always the case that smartphones had a singular formula when it came to materials. It wasn’t too long ago that OnePlus itself launched a metal unibody design in the form of the 2017 OnePlus 5 and OnePlus 5T. Since then, however, smartphones have moved to those glass-metal or plastic sandwiches and there hasn’t been a full unibody design ever since. Ironically, the reason for that is one of the biggest innovations in the mobile industry: 5G networks.

OnePlus 5

OnePlus 5T

The speed and power of 5G placed heavier demands not just on hardware but also on design, specifically on how radio waves are transmitted through the phone’s body. Wireless signals already have a difficult time passing through metal, and even more so for 5G, forcing phone designers to either have plastic strips on the frame’s edges or simply ditch the all-metal design altogether. Unfortunately, it almost seems as if the industry as a whole is no longer interested in solving this puzzle, but OnePlus has risen to the challenge to provide its loyal users with a no-compromise option that will speak to their hearts through their fingers.

Metal Matters

Since the beginning of human history, especially when it came to trade, metal has played an important role not just in building up civilization but also as a symbol of prestige and luxury. Metal has always had this dual character of being a durable and malleable worker’s tool as well as a premium material for jewelry, decorations, and art. It is this long history that has endeared French designer Mathieu Lehanneur to metal. Famed for his nature-inspired metal-based works, Lehanneur was chosen to design the distinctive Paris 2024 Olympic Torch, perfectly symbolizing not only the aspirations of the Olympics itself but also the poetry in nature found in this year’s location for the event.

Mathieu Lehanneur, Designer of the Paris 2024 Olympic Torch

“I love materials that get their own history,” says Lehanneur as he explains his fascination with metal, “and metal’s history actually starts from the Earth, from the very planet itself. At the same time, it is also a part of human invention and skill, thanks to its ability to be transformed. I love the flexibility of the material, being able to create something that appears like a single piece of metal, a unibody design like the Olympic torch.”

It is that same trait that has allowed OnePlus to craft a seamless and unified metal shell for its latest design, the OnePlus Nord 4. The material delivers a lustrous look and a premium feel, something that users today are craving more than just features and specs. More importantly, however, this metal unibody design was made to address the flaws and concerns that smartphone makers have with mixing the material and current technologies, opening the door to fresh new designs that go beyond limitations imposed by hardware.

OnePlus Nord 4: Metal for the 5G Era

Choosing metal for the new Nord was both logical yet also difficult. It presented an opportunity to uplift the user experience but also put hurdles that needed to be sufficiently overcome lest it actually become a burden to that same user experience. Fortunately, the creative minds over at the OnePlus Industrial Design Studio got together to solve these issues to deliver a fashionable product without compromises.

Ryan Ruan, Head of OnePlus Industrial Design Center, shares the many challenges the team had to face and eventually solved to create the OnePlus Nord 4. In the early stages of the design, it was already clear that the higher thermal conductivity of metal would be a concern. “That’s why we chose the power-efficient (Qualcomm) Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 and designed a heat dissipation system that uses 17,900 sq. mm. of high-density crystalline graphene and a steel vapor chamber to ensure that even in extreme temperatures, the phone can still operate normally,” the designer explains. This serves to minimize the impact of heat on the metal surface and keep the phone performing optimally.

Wireless charging is another feature that is absent on phones with metal covers, and, unfortunately, there is still no way around this limitation. That said, the desire for this feature is more of a symptom of a much deeper cause. “Ultimately, users are pursuing high charging efficiency and a better user experience overall. Wireless charging is just one of the solutions, but we provide another solution,” according to Ruan. That solution is the OnePlus Nord 4’s extra-large 5,500 mAh battery and super-fast 100W SuperVOOC charging, minimizing not only the charging time but also the number of times you even need to charge the phone.

As for that tricky 5G antenna problem? OnePlus re-designed the phone’s internals to not only maximize battery space but also improve the signal strength. More importantly, the new U-shaped antenna design at the bottom of the internal chassis ensures that there is no degradation of wireless signals when you hold the phone at the sides with the so-called “Death Grip.” In other words, there will never be a wrong way to hold the Nord 4.

The Future of Burdenless Design

“When you choose a device, a product, or an art piece, it’s not only a question of specs or functionality but also a question of emotion, what you can feel from an object,” says Lehanneur. This relationship between object and person is especially true with today’s smartphone users who no longer pick just from a list of features but based on, as the designer describes it, “a question of how you want to be part of this object and how you want it to be a part of your life.” In that regard, Lehanneur expressed his delight in the Nord 4’s metal unibody design, and not just because it was made of metal. The Mercurial Silver colorway, in particular, has this visual effect where you can feel a relief or embossed surface even when there’s none. Lehanneur compares it to the “guillochage” design of luxury watches that provide beautiful visual and tactile experiences in a simple yet striking manner.

It’s a kind of detail that isn’t lost on OnePlus users who Ruan describes as “very playful, very young, and very personalized, pursuing designs where they can express themselves.” That is why early on, OnePlus designers decided to have a very different metal unibody design for the Nord 4 that distinguishes it from the 4G era OnePlus 5 and 5T. The dual-tone design of this generation’s “Nordtones” expresses that spirit of dynamism and vibrancy, while still trying to appeal to a broad range of tastes. It allows the Nord 4 to establish an emotional connection with users and allow them to express themselves in more unique and personalized ways.

A metal unibody is definitely a bold design to use for a phone, but it’s one that looks to the past glories of smartphone history while also safeguarding its future. “Metal is probably one of the most sustainable materials because it can live endlessly,” says Lehanneur. Unlike plastic that loses a part of its substance every time it’s recycled, metal can be recycled again and again. The recycled metal used in the Paris Olympic Torch, for example, could have very well come from a car in the past. In a way, that is also one way that metal carries its history, creating an interesting narrative with each lifetime.

In the same vein, metal wasn’t just a material choice for OnePlus but a representation of the brand’s design philosophy and ideals. “OnePlus is founded on the belief that while form should always perform a function, good design is what ultimately defines the user experience,” says Ruan. Choosing a metal unibody design, despite its numerous challenges, demonstrates the battle cry that launched OnePlus into stardom: Never Settle. “Our aim is to always strike the ideal balance between modern, elegant design and fast, smooth performance while providing users with a burdenless experience.”

Be sure to look out for our review of the OnePlus Nord 4 that will cover not just the design but also the overall value of this bold metal unibody phone.

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Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Worthy Redesign or a Step Back?

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The upcoming Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is already generating buzz, and the latest images from Taiwan’s National Communications Commission offer a compelling look at what we can expect. This second-generation foldable represents a departure from its predecessor, embracing a new design philosophy while addressing some of the previous model’s shortcomings.

Designer: Google

First and foremost, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold ditches the original’s short and wide passport-style form factor. The new model adopts a taller and narrower profile, bringing it more in line with devices like the OnePlus Open. This change offers a larger, more practical outer display, making the phone easier to handle and use. The increased screen real estate is a welcome improvement, even though it means saying goodbye to the unique shape that made the first Pixel Fold stand out from competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Fold.

Google Pixel Fold

One of the most notable changes is removing Google’s signature camera bar. The first-generation Pixel Fold featured a prominent, elongated camera bar that added a distinctive look and functionality. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold opts for a new camera housing design, which is substantial enough to prevent the phone from wobbling when laid flat. This redesign offers a cleaner and more streamlined aesthetic, although it loses some of the original’s unique charm.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold via Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC)

Google Pixel Fold

Looking at the new model’s inner display, there’s still a noticeable crease, though it appears less prominent than before. The screen ratio has shifted, becoming taller and narrower, and the bezels have been slimmed down, giving the device a more modern look. However, this design shift comes with a trade-off: the inner camera is now a cutout on the upper-left part of the display rather than being part of the bezel. This change means the screen is no longer uninterrupted, which might disappoint fans of the original design.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold via Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC)

Despite its weight, the first-generation Pixel Fold’s short and wide design made it a great one-handed device. Although its cover screen was larger on paper, it was often too wide to hold comfortably for extended periods. In contrast, the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s taller form factor should make it easier to use and carry around, enhancing the overall user experience.

Google Pixel Fold

A concern with the new model is its slightly smaller battery capacity of 4,560 mAh, down from the first Fold’s 4,727 mAh. Given that the original wasn’t known for its battery longevity, this reduction might raise some eyebrows. However, Google’s latest Tensor processor promises efficiency gains that could help mitigate this issue.

Alongside these design changes, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a new 45-watt USB-C charger. This new charger, which sports a more rounded design than its predecessors, is part of Google’s push to improve charging speeds and overall user convenience.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold charger via Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC)

As someone who has used the first-generation Pixel Fold extensively, I can say that it has a unique quality that the new model hopes to build upon. The first Fold had its share of drawbacks, from dim screen brightness compared to newer models to subpar speakers and limited app optimization. With the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google can address these issues and deliver a more refined and competitive product.

Google Pixel Fold

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant evolution in design and functionality. By moving away from the unique but bulky passport form factor to a more practical and user-friendly design, Google is making strides to compete more effectively in the foldable phone market. Here’s hoping that the new model not only looks the part but also delivers on performance and user experience, even if it does come with a price tag north of $2,000.

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Here’s Every iPhone 16 Pro Leak And Rumor We Know So Far…

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Is it safe to say that Apple’s won the long-term smartphone war? Samsung had a decent Unpacked event last week, and so did Nothing, but none of them have even managed to match the cultural impact of Apple’s iPhone keynote that happens every September. In fact, even though the event happens on one single day, the news coverage before and after the event revolves around the iPhone too. After the phone’s announced, you’ve got first-impressions, reviews, and comparisons… but before the phone is announced, the rumor mill works hard to try and decipher what the upcoming phone will look like. We’re in July right now (two months before Apple announces its latest phone) and at this point, it does seem like we have a fair idea of what the new iPhone 16 Pro will look like. From hardware details to even internal components, the interwebz has worked tirelessly to deliver on leaks and credible speculations – so we decided to collect everything we know about the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max in one single place. Here’s everything we’ve heard so far…

Rendered by: AppleTrack

A18 Pro Bionic Chipset

After last month’s WWDC event, it’s pretty much taken for granted that Apple Intelligence will be at the forefront of the new iPhone lineup… and to make that happen, the new iPhones will need beefed up chipsets. A new report from Jeff Pu, an analyst at Haitong International Tech Research renowned for his reliable insights into Apple’s chip development, reveals that Apple is accelerating the production of the A18 Pro chip earlier than usual. This chip is being specifically tailored for advanced AI functionalities. These upgrades indicate that the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will feature a custom-designed A18 Pro chip, emphasizing on-device handling of intensive artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. Rumors are indicating that even the regular iPhone 16 phones may get the A18 Bionic chipset to handle these AI features.

Smaller Bezels = Bigger Screens

It’s 2014 again and bezels are public enemy number 1. Apple’s new phones will reportedly have marginally larger screens thanks to an impressive 30% reduction in bezels. This new display template, dubbed BRS or Border Reduction Structure, is thanks to Apple pushing Samsung to provide tighter circuit placement that can help shave off almost half a millimeter of bezel thickness. These reports seem fairly credible, coming from THE ELEC, a Korean industry media outlet. This effectively means the new 16 Pro and Pro Max will have screens measuring 6.3 and 6.9 inches diagonally, respectively.

The iPhone 15 Pro on the left and the 16 Pro on the right demonstrate the reduced bezel sizes

A New Capture Button For Enhanced Photography

Although rumors of a Capture Button have circulated for quite a while, actual details on its capabilities have only NOW become more evident. At first, this button was touted as simply a shutter button that could click photos without you needing to touch your screen, but indications show that this button will have a touch-sensitive surface and a two-stage press. The touch-sensitive surface will allow you to slide your finger from side to side to zoom in or out, while the two-stage press lets you press lightly for focusing, and then further for clicking the picture, sort of like most DSLR cameras. The capture button sits where the millimeter-wave antenna once featured on the iPhone’s body, but it seems like the antenna will just move over to the left side instead, making way for the new hardware feature on the iPhone 16 Pro.

Same Old Sensors, New Capabilities

Since cameras are a pretty massive part of the iPhone (some might say its highlight), talking about camera capabilities is also pretty crucial. Rumor has it that the new iPhone 16 Pro will still feature the 48MP main camera sensor from its predecessor with no change. However, the tetraprism telephoto lens from last year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max that could output 5x zoom will see even more zoom capabilities. Last year’s flagship iPhone had the zoom equivalent of a 120mm telephoto lens, but rumors indicate the new iPhone will push this to a 300mm lens equivalent. Now obviously, that seems absolutely bonkers, but it also makes sense to take such a rumor with a little pinch of salt. After all, stabilization while zooming in that far would probably be near impossible.

Thinner MagSafe Array

Yet another tweak, noticed by case-makers, is a refinement of the MagSafe array. Now the new MagSafe ring on the iPhone will feature thinner magnets all around, freeing up more space inside the phone without compromising on the magnet’s strength.

(Probably) A New Rose Gold Color Variant

The final rumor is that the iPhone 16 Pro series could see another color variant added to it. Apparently the famed Rose Gold colorway (made popular with earlier iPhone models and even the MacBook Air) could make a comeback – but this time in titanium. Yes, the new Pro-series iPhones will still have a titanium frame, but Apple will probably issue new color variants to set the different iPhone Pro models apart. Last year, the 15 Pro series saw natural, blue, white, and black finishes. It’s fairly conceivable that Rose Gold sees a resurgence this year.

Image Credits: FrontPageTech

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Could A.I. Make the Modular Phone A Reality? This Concept Revives the ‘PhoneBloks’ Dream with a Twist

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Rather than attaching components to your phone, the PAIR Node allows you to attach sensor modules that help your phone capture different data points around you and your life. Called ‘Nodes’, these modules assist users in forming a lifestyle and AI-driven experience that suits their needs. Rather than buying a phone for its capabilities, you build your phone around the capabilities you need, from having a great camera to being a great health-tracking gadget. As you grow older, the phone grows with you, changing with time and your needs but never being replaced. It’s a clever way to help solve the planned obsolescence problem with tech, by bringing AI-based assistance into the mix.

Designer: LFD Official

Phones are nothing but vessels for the apps they carry – but AI is a little different. Everyone uses AI differently based on exactly what the needs of their life are. That prompted PAIR Node’s creators to revisit phone modularity in the AI age. The PAIR Node is a phone you build based on your requirements, but also on the ability to build an AI-powered device that grows with you and trains as you go. The framework of how this works remains extremely similar to the PhoneBloks concept from years back (which was acquired by Google and Motorola and turned into the now-shelved Project Ara), albeit with a few different modules based on how tech has advanced in the past few years.

The logic behind the phone fundamentally remains the same too – but it’s executed differently. You start by choosing the nodes you need to make ‘your’ smartphone. You pick how advanced you need your camera to be, you choose your battery size, SSD size, speakers, a mini-display, and a few other sensors. Similarly, there’s a separate node called the ‘Remember’ node that captures personal information so that it learns your needs, preferences, and details. Another node is dedicated to just AI, determining how powerful and capable your phone’s assistant is. Together, the Remember and AI nodes work to turn your phone into an extension of yourself in a uniquely meaningful way. The Remember node is the database, and the AI node is the bot that trains on this database.

The AI node trains on other stuff too, like how you use your phone, what you enjoy about your phone (whether you prefer music or photography), etc. It locally fine-tunes its abilities based on your behaviors and patterns – something the PhoneBloks concept didn’t even factor in.

The different nodes come in a variety of configurations. Nodes follow a grid-based design, expanding or contracting in size based on capability. A smaller SSD provides less storage, a larger SSD gives you more storage. Similarly, camera modules increase in size based on capability. Battery, Speaker, Remember, and AI nodes behave the same way. At the end, you pick and choose what you need and reject what you don’t. There’s ultimately a bit of compromise because the phone only has a limited amount of real estate for modules. If music matters more than storage, you’d be better off choosing a larger speaker than a larger SSD. If battery life is a higher priority than camera, then that’s a choice you have to make. Similarly with the AI node, which one can only assume offers newer, faster, powerful hardware for on-device computation.

In the end, the PAIR Node does something rather brilliant – it revives something dead in a way that feels meaningful, very similar to how Apple revived the metaverse last year and how it revived the conversation around AI this year. The modular phone was completely dead as a tech concept (with every smartphone company pivoting rapidly to foldables), but the PAIR Node shows that the phone isn’t dead, it just needs to be made more future-proof. The way you do that isn’t by launching new, better phones every year… it’s by giving your phone a chance to grow with you, understand you, and be a better aide to your daily needs.

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SwitchLens Pro Camera System turns any Smartphone into a Photography Powerhouse

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Smartphone cameras have come a long way and have become quite capable tools in preserving memorable moments for posterity. There is, however, still a very good reason why they haven’t completely overthrown pro cameras. You can only squeeze so much hardware into a slim smartphone, and you can’t really have large lenses or even a lens mount bulging out from the back of the phone. There are admittedly a few accessories that try to bring some of that interchangeable lens experience but usually limit themselves to small lenses made just for smartphones. Bringing a true “pro camera” experience to mobile requires taking a few cues from pro cameras themselves, and that is exactly what the SwitchLens does to level up your mobile photography game.

Designer: sneaki design

Click Here to Buy Now: $199 $329 ($130 off). Hurry, 33/450 left! Raised over $490,000.

SwitchLens is a complete pro camera system that not only takes the lessons learned from digital cameras but even the technologies employed there. In particular, it embraces the popular micro four thirds or MFT system that leverages large sensors and interchangeable lenses to create highly detailed and breathtaking shots. The large 20.75MP 1.33-inch CMOS sensor that SwitchLens uses is unmatched by even flagship phones, which means it can take in more light and record more details just with the hardware alone, no post-processing or AI touch-up required.

And just like the MFT used in compact digital cameras, you can also swap out lenses to get the best shot out of a scene, whether that’s a 25mm f1.8 portrait lens for closeups or a 12mm f2.8 wide-angle lens for sweeping panoramic shots. What makes the SwitchLens system even more impressive is that it can actually support MFT lenses from Panasonic or Olympus that you might have lying around. You are no longer limited to what the manufacturer provides, and you are definitely not limited to tiny lenses that compromise on performance in return for their pretty sizes.

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Unlike other such accessories, SwitchLens is a powerful device that can function even when detached from the back of your phone. Using a stable and fast Wi-Fi connection, you can control SwitchLens remotely for more difficult shots, or magnetically stick it to the back of your iPhone or Android phone to recreate the experience of using a digital camera but with a much larger and clearer viewfinder. From selfies at extremely low angles to macro photography, SwitchLens gives you the flexibility to take a shot in the most comfortable and most convenient way.

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The pro camera experience doesn’t end there. SwitchLens’s Peaking Focus assistance feature easily marks out which objects are in focus with vibrant, eye-catching colors to ensure sharp and in-focus images every time. With support for microSD cards up to 1.5TB in capacity, you have nearly limitless room for taking thousands of RAW photos and recording 4K 30fps videos without filling up your phone storage. With the SwitchLens MFT modular camera system, your phone is no longer a stumbling block for a pro photography experience and becomes the launch pad for taking stunning photos and videos like a pro.

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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 Hands-On Review: Design, Features, and Performance Unveiled

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Foldable phones are changing how we use our mobile devices by combining the best of smartphones and tablets into one. Samsung leads this innovation with its latest Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6. Let’s look at their design, drawing from my hands-on experience.

Designer: Samsung

The Galaxy Z Fold6 features a sleek, symmetrical design with straight edges, making it look refined and practical. It is 2.7 mm wider and 1.4 mm thinner when unfolded compared to the Fold5, making it feel comfortable and substantial. This design improvement makes the device easier to handle while offering a larger screen.

After using other foldables like the Vivo Fold, Honor Porsche Design Foldable, and OnePlus, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to hold and manage the Fold6. The flat and sharp edges add a modern touch. The design feels intentional, enhancing both its look and functionality. I’m a fan of the design, which balances form and function well.

The device is sturdy with its enhanced Armor Aluminum, which improves scratch resistance by 10%. This is paired with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back for better protection against drops and scratches. During my hands-on time, this combination felt durable, giving me confidence in its everyday use. These enhancements build on the Fold5’s already robust design.

The Galaxy Z Fold6’s hinge mechanism is impressive. The dual rail hinge design distributes shock better, making folding and unfolding smooth. This adds to the device’s durability and improves its functionality. The strengthened folding edge makes it more resilient against impacts. The hinge felt solid and reliable, addressing some concerns from previous models.

The main screen includes an improved protective layer that reduces the visibility of the crease, making for a smoother viewing experience. This layer also helps with shock absorption and protects the internal components. The device’s slim and light design, combined with these features, makes it robust and user-friendly. The Fold6’s display improvements offer a slightly better viewing experience compared to the Fold5.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 features a 7.6-inch QXGA+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity Flex Display with a 2160 x 1856 pixels resolution at 374 ppi. This display supports a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate, offering a smooth visual experience. Whether watching videos, playing games, or multitasking, the display’s colors and details are impressive. The cover screen is equally capable, with a 6.3-inch HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display, ensuring clear visuals in any mode. These display enhancements provide a noticeable upgrade from the Fold5.

The Galaxy Z Flip6 is designed for those who value style and functionality. Its compact form fits easily into pockets and bags, making it highly portable. The 3.4-inch Super AMOLED FlexWindow offers a dynamic way to interact with the device even when closed. Holding the device, it’s clear that Samsung has prioritized both looks and usability, creating a practical and stylish device. The Flip6’s design refines the Flip5, making it easier to use and more appealing.

The FlexWindow isn’t just for notifications; it supports interactive and photo ambient wallpapers that change based on the time and weather. This feature adds a personal touch to the device, allowing users to express their style directly on the cover screen. The interactive wallpapers respond to touch or movement, making the user experience more engaging. Experimenting with these features and seeing the wallpapers react in real time was interesting. This feature builds on the functionality of the Flip5’s external display, offering more customization options.

Customization is central to the Galaxy Z Flip6. Users can create unique wallpapers using the generative wallpaper feature, which allows the creation of images based on keywords. The device also offers wallpaper suggestions with diverse styles to suit individual preferences. During hands-on use, setting up and switching between these customizations was seamless. This level of personalization was more limited in the Flip5, making the Flip6 feel more unique.

The Galaxy Z Flip6’s durability matches that of its Fold6 counterpart. It features the same enhanced Armor Aluminum frame and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, ensuring it can withstand everyday use. The folding edge has been reinforced to resist pressure and sharp objects better. The Flip6’s durability improvements build on the Flip5, making it even more resilient.

Specs and Features: Power and Intelligence

Their intelligent AI features set the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 apart. These capabilities enhance productivity, creativity, and user experience.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform, optimized for AI processing, is the core of these devices. This processor enhances performance and enables a host of AI-driven features that make everyday tasks more efficient.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 boosts productivity with AI-powered tools. Samsung’s Note Assist in Samsung Notes offers translation, summaries, and auto-formatting for meeting notes. The embedded transcript feature can transcribe, translate, and summarize voice recordings directly in Notes. PDF overlay translation allows for seamless translation of texts within PDF files, even supporting texts in images and graphs. Composer in Samsung Keyboard generates suggested text for emails and social media posts based on simple keywords, reflecting your tone by analyzing previous posts. These AI tools are more advanced than those in the Fold5, providing a smoother user experience.

The enhanced S Pen experience on the Galaxy Z Fold6 allows access to convenient shortcuts by hovering the stylus over the screen. Smart Select expands the S Pen’s capabilities, offering features like translation, note-taking, and Sketch to Image, which provides image options based on your sketches. During hands-on use, these features made note-taking and content creation more intuitive. This is an improvement over the S Pen functionality on the Fold5, making the Fold6 more versatile for productivity.

The Galaxy Z Flip6’s AI capabilities enhance user interaction and customization. The 3.4-inch Super AMOLED FlexWindow supports interactive wallpapers that change based on time and weather, offering a personalized touch. FlexWindow provides quick access to various indicators and widgets without unlocking the device. Users can manage health, SmartThings, reminders, and news updates seamlessly. These features build upon Flip5’s capabilities, offering more customization options and quick access to information.

The generative wallpaper feature allows users to create unique wallpapers using keywords, adding a personal touch to the device. The suggested replies and interpreter mode make communication quick and efficient, with tailored responses and easy two-way translation using FlexMode. These features will be handy for anyone who needs it, making interactions more seamless. These AI enhancements make the Flip6 more intelligent and responsive than the Flip5.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 have AI-powered camera features. The FlexCam on the Galaxy Z Flip6 offers clear selfies and crisp AI zoom with its new 50 MP high-resolution camera and a 12 MP camera for enhanced low-light detail. The camera system on the Galaxy Z Fold6 includes a 10 MP cover selfie camera, a 4 MP under-display camera, and a rear triple camera setup. AI tools like ProVisual Engine and Photo Assist elevate photography, offering features like Portrait Studio and Instant Slow-mo. These camera enhancements provide a noticeable upgrade from the Fold5 and Flip5, particularly regarding AI capabilities and low-light performance.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 enhances the gaming experience with its powerful chipset and 1.6x larger vapor chamber, supporting longer gaming sessions with detailed graphics and Ray Tracing. The 7.6-inch screen with up to 2,600 nits of brightness ensures an immersive gaming experience. The Galaxy Z Flip6 also supports a rich multimedia experience with its flexible display and AI-driven features, making it versatile for productivity and entertainment. These gaming and entertainment enhancements build on the performance of the Fold5 and Flip5.

Running on Android 14 with One UI 6.1.1, the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 offer seamless connectivity options, including 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. Samsung Knox with Knox Vault ensures your data is secure, providing advanced protection against cyber threats. The devices also feature Live Translate, which translates phone calls in real-time, and Interpreter mode, enhancing communication in multiple languages. As someone who travels frequently to Japan and China, I find these features particularly useful. Using third-party apps like Alipay or WeChat in Chinese with real-time translations has been incredibly convenient, making communication and transactions much smoother.

Value: Who Should Upgrade?

For users with Fold5 or Flip5, the differences between Fold6 and Flip6 may not be substantial enough to warrant an upgrade. The Fold6 and Flip6 are iterative updates, offering refinements rather than revolutionary changes. However, for those new to the foldable market or upgrading from older versions like the Fold3 or Flip3, the Galaxy Z Fold6, and Z Flip6 offer significant advancements in design, AI features, and overall performance, making them compelling choices.

The free storage upgrade offer is an added incentive for new buyers. Pre-ordering the Galaxy Z Fold6 can get you a free upgrade from 256 GB to 512 GB or 512 GB to 1 TB, available on Samsung.com and through select carriers and retailers. Additionally, pre-orders made by July 23 are eligible for up to $1,200 in trade-in value for the Galaxy Z Fold6 with an eligible trade-in.

Final Thoughts

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 go beyond their sleek looks, representing the future of smart, user-friendly devices. Their AI features boost productivity, creativity, and overall user experience, making them perfect for everyday tasks. Whether you prefer the large display and productivity tools of the Galaxy Z Fold6 or the stylish flexibility and customization of the Galaxy Z Flip6, these phones offer a seamless mix of technology and design. My hands-on experience with both devices highlights their versatility and intelligence, setting a new standard for what foldable phones can achieve.

The post Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 Hands-On Review: Design, Features, and Performance Unveiled first appeared on Yanko Design.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 Leak: Complete Specs and Features

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Samsung is gearing up to reveal its latest foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. With the Samsung Unpacked event just around the corner, detailed specs for both devices have already leaked, giving us a sneak peek at what’s coming.

Designer: Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 comes with some exciting upgrades. The 7.6-inch inner screen now boasts a max brightness of 2,600 nits, up from 1,750 nits, making it much easier to see in bright daylight. The outer screen remains a useful 6.3 inches, with slight improvements in size and resolution for a better overall viewing experience.

Image via Evan Blass

Under the hood, the Z Fold 6 is powered by the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which promises faster and more efficient performance. You’ll also get an extra hour of LTE internet use and two more hours of video playback, perfect for those long days out. Design-wise, the Fold 6 is 14 grams lighter and a bit more compact, making it easier to carry around. It’s 1.4mm shorter, 1mm wider, and 1.3mm thinner when folded, and 1.4mm shorter, 2.7mm wider, and 0.5mm thinner when unfolded. The improved Armor Aluminum frame ensures better durability without adding extra weight. A minor yet noteworthy change is the secondary screen being 0.1 inches larger. The main display resolution has slightly changed to 2160×1856 from 2176×1812. However, the cameras, battery capacity (4400mAh), and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 cover glass remain the same.

Image via Evan Blass

The design of the Z Fold 6 also focuses on functionality and portability. Despite its large display, the device is slim and lightweight, making it pocket-friendly. Samsung has improved the hinge mechanism, offering a smoother folding experience. The Z Fold 6 also supports the S Pen, making it a versatile tool for note-taking and productivity on the go.

Image via Evan Blass

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is also getting some cool updates. The main camera is now a powerful 50MP, up from 12MP, while retaining the same f/1.8 aperture for stunning photos. Another significant change is the switch to an IPS display from OLED, which might affect color quality slightly but could improve durability.

Image via Evan Blass

Equipped with the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and upgraded to 12GB of RAM from 8GB, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 ensures smooth multitasking and performance. The higher capacity 4,000mAh battery (up from 3,700mAh) extends internet usage by two hours and video playback by three hours, making it a reliable companion for prolonged use. When folded, the device is 0.2mm thinner, with other dimensions and weight remaining unchanged. A notable aesthetic update is that the entire phone reflects your chosen color, not just one panel on the back, for a more unified and stylish look. Like the Fold 6, the Flip 6 is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2.

Display Comparison: Z Flip 4, 5, and 6

We see some exciting changes when comparing the display sizes across the Z Flip series. The Z Flip 6 has a 6.7-inch inner screen and a 3.4-inch outer screen, consistent with the Z Flip 5, but a significant jump from the Z Flip 4’s 1.9-inch outer screen. This increase provides a more useful and interactive external display, enhancing functionality without unfolding the device. Additionally, the Z Flip 6’s switch to an IPS display for the outer screen, from OLED, indicates a focus on durability and other display qualities.

Image via Evan Blass

New Features and Improvements

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 introduces several innovative features. The front cover screen now supports Samsung’s language-translating Interpreter Mode, allowing you to communicate more effectively in different languages. It also has Chat Assist, which lets you send messages directly from the front display with suggested replies curated by context-sensitive AI. The Circle to Search with Google feature enables users to instantly circle an object or text and get search results.

Image via Evan Blass

On the Galaxy Z Fold 6, the AI Note Assist helps summarize notes, making organizing your thoughts and ideas more accessible. The device also offers an immersive gaming experience with its high-brightness display and improved performance. The ProVisual Engine on both devices enhances camera capabilities, providing clear zoom and detailed photos powered by AI.

Image via Evan Blass

With the official launch on July 10th, these leaks have given us a comprehensive look at what to expect. Whether you’re after better performance, enhanced camera features, or stylish design tweaks, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 are shaping up to be great new additions to the foldable phone market.

The post Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 Leak: Complete Specs and Features first appeared on Yanko Design.