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Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ Racing Edition Review: A high-speed performance for motorsports fans

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PROS:


  • Sleek profile and stylish design

  • Good battery life and fast charging

  • Included wireless charger

CONS:


  • Underwhelming Camera capability

  • No ultrawide camera

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Infinix and BMW Deisgnworks have successfully captured the essence of speed and performance with this model, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a reliable, stylish smartphone that embodies the thrill of racing and the promise of speed.

On March 18th of this year, Infinix unveiled its NOTE 40 series at the iconic Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. The choice of venue was no coincidence; the world-renowned Formula 1 racetrack served as the perfect backdrop to showcase the NOTE 40’s speed and performance. Among the NOTE 40 Series announced at the event was the Racing Edition in collaboration with BMW Deisgnworks. Now, the Infinix NOTE 40 Series Racing Edition has become available globally.

While smartphone collaborations with car brands aren’t uncommon, the opportunity to review the Racing Edition as a motorsports enthusiast was irresistible. The Note 40 Pro+ 5G Racing Edition Gift Box I received included a plethora of speed-inspired gadgets and goodies beside the phone, including the XWATCH 3 WE, XBUDS 3 WE, a 68W GaN fast charger, a USB-C to USB-C braided cable, MagPower wireless power bank, MagWallet, sunglasses, and a keychain. While these accessories undoubtedly contribute to the overall package, this review will focus exclusively on the smartphone itself.

Designer: Infinix

Aesthetics

The Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G Racing Edition comes in Racing Gray while the regular model offers a choice of Vintage Green with a vegan leather finish or Obsidian Black with matte texture. The Racing Edition showcases what Infinix calls “Wings of Speed”, featuring dynamic vertical ridges on its back panel that evoke a sense of motion. The sleek ridges are crafted through a UV transfer printing process. Composed of composite materials, the ridged texture not only enhances tactile satisfaction but also captivates with shifting lights and shadows as the phone moves.

The phone sports a rectangular-shaped camera module on its back panel, housing a triple camera setup, an Active Halo, and BMW’s iconic tri-color emblem, as you’d expect. The Active Halo offers customizable AI lighting for notifications, gaming, charging, and more, and can also function as a fill light for enhanced photography and videography. The camera module’s minimal protrusion contributes to the phone’s sleek profile, complemented by the Infinix logo and 5G insignia in grey which are positioned vertically at the lower left of the back panel, ensuring a minimalist and polished appearance.

Ergonomics

Merely 8.1mm thin, the phone is sleek and fits comfortably in your hand. Weighing 190g and measuring 6.47 x 2.93 x 0.32 inches, it’s effortlessly portable. The slim profile, coupled with curved edges and a textured back panel, provides excellent grip without digging into your hands, ensuring it won’t slip out of your hands. While a textured finish enhances grip, it is not free from fingerprints and smudges, although a lot less noticeable compared to glossy non-textured surfaces.

To utilize the phone’s wireless magnetic charging feature, you’ll need to attach the included magnetic case. While the case itself is a simple black design, it thankfully maintains the same leather-like texture found on the back panel of the Vintage Green model, preserving the phone’s overall grip and feel.

As for the placements of buttons and ports, the power button and the volume locker are located on the right side of the phone, and nothing on the left. The top of the device houses the speaker grill, microphone, and IR blaster while the bottom houses the dual nano-SIM card tray, microphone, UBC-C port, and speaker grill.

Performance

Aside from its distinctive Race Edition back panel design and customized UI, the rest of the device is the same as its regular NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G counterpart. Emphasizing speed and performance, it runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 7020 5G chipset paired with a generous 12GB of RAM (expandable virtually to 18GB) and 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage. This hardware combination ensures smooth multitasking and efficient app handling, making it suitable for both casual use and more demanding tasks.

Running on Infinix’s XOS 14 based on Android 14, the device delivers a smooth user experience. The phone comes with a special Racing Edition wallpaper and UI. While the exclusive wallpaper is a nice touch, users hoping for multiple options might be disappointed. Fortunately, the device offers a vast library of wallpapers both on-device and online. Additionally, Infinix’s AI Wallpaper Generator lets you create custom wallpapers, with up to six daily creations. Moreover, Infinix introduced AI Wallpaper Generator, allowing users to create up to six custom wallpapers daily, enhancing personalization options for users who enjoy changing their phone’s look frequently. As for support, Infinix offers two major Android updates and three years of security patches.

One of the standout features of the phone is the robust battery and versatile charging options. Sporting a 4,600mAh battery, the device supports rapid 100W wired charging and convenient 20W wireless charging. Infinix goes the extra mile by including a 100W charger, a MagCase, and a MagPad wireless magnetic charger in the box. Additionally, Infinix offers a sleek Qi wireless power bank with a 3020mAh capacity. And, if you want to charge your other device, Note 40 Pro+ 5G is capable of reverse charging, although the included MagCase is needed to utilize this feature.

Equipped with Infinix’s first self-developed Cheetah X1 chip and features All-Round FastCharge 2.0, the device optimizes battery health and charging efficiency. There are three different charging modes that cater to your needs. Smart Charge offers optimal charging speed, while Hyper Charge delivers an impressive 50% charge in just 8 minutes. For those concerned about overheating, Low-Temp Charge gently charges the device to maintain a comfortable temperature. Additionally, AI Charging Protection safeguards battery longevity by learning charging patterns and preventing overcharging. In real-world testing, the battery easily lasted a full day of intense use on a single charge, and charging speeds were remarkably close to the advertised speeds.

The Note 40 Pro+ 5G boasts a 6.78-inch curved AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080p, a refresh rate of 120Hz, and a peak brightness of 1,300 nits. The display is safeguarded by Corning Gorilla Glass, although the specific generation is unspecified. While there is no LTPO technology implemented, which is understandable given the phone’s budget-friendly price point, there is an auto-switch option that automatically adjusts the refresh rate to 60Hz or 120Hz based on content and battery life, balancing performance and power efficiency. The dual speakers branded with JBL professional tuning certification deliver good sound, enhancing the multimedia experience with clear audio output and immersive viewing.

While the Note 40 Pro+ 5G’s performance and battery life are commendable, its camera capabilities are less impressive. The Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G boasts a triple camera system consisting of a 108MP main camera with f/1.75 aperture and OIS, a 2MP macro with F/2.4 aperture, and a 2MP depth sensor. The 108MP main sensor captures decent shots in well-lit conditions, but color accuracy can be over-saturated. The macro photos are grainy and non-usable, although I’m certain not many people care about this. The 32MP front-facing camera provides passable selfies under optimal lighting conditions but struggles in low-light environments, resulting in softer details and increased noise.

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Sustainability

Infinix has positioned itself as a youth-centric brand with a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The company’s partnership with UNESCO to promote STEM education globally is a testament to this commitment.

While features like the Note 40 Pro+ 5G’s IP53 rating, Corning Gorilla Glass protection, and battery optimization contribute to device longevity and reduce environmental impact, they represent only part of the sustainability equation. A comprehensive approach encompassing material selection, repairability, and end-of-life management is essential for creating truly eco-friendly smartphones. Given Infinix’s established dedication to social responsibility, we hope that the brand will continue to innovate in these areas.

Value

Priced competitively at $329, the Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ 5G Racing Edition offers excellent value with its combination of design, display quality, and robust performance. Despite some camera performance limitations, it remains a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for a stylish and capable smartphone that delivers on speed and endurance. The inclusion of essential charging accessories, such as the 100W charger, MagCase, and MagPad, further enhances its appeal, making it a standout choice in the budget smartphone market.

Verdict

The Infinix Note 40 Pro+ 5G Racing Edition is a stylish and capable mid-range smartphone with strong points in design, display, and battery life. The incorporation of racing-inspired aesthetics, such as the dynamic ridged back panel and the exclusive Racing Edition UI, adds a unique flair that resonates with enthusiasts of speed and performance. While the camera could benefit from improvements, the device’s overall package is solid. Infinix and BMW Deisgnworks have successfully captured the essence of speed and performance with this model, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a reliable, stylish smartphone that embodies the thrill of racing and the promise of speed.

The post Infinix NOTE 40 Pro+ Racing Edition Review: A high-speed performance for motorsports fans first appeared on Yanko Design.

DON’T Throw Your Old Phone – Here Are 6 Ways You Can Still Use It

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Image Credits: MKBHD

Ever had a spare phone lying around at home and wondered what the resale value on it was? Then you went and checked online and it was probably a measly few hundred dollars. Yeah, me too. The last phone I owned depreciated by a whopping $700 in two and a half years, and that just made me want to not sell it or discard it, because it would be a financial loss. Instead, I decided to keep it (since it was working perfectly well), and repurpose it into a dedicated WiFi Hotspot. If you too have an old phone lying around the house that you’re thinking of discarding, I’m here to tell you to stop! Your old phone may not be capable of handling the requirements of your day-to-day life… but it’s still essentially a computer with a touchscreen and a bunch of sensors. Here are 6 clever things you can do with an old device instead of reselling it, discarding it, or passing it down to a kid.

01. Turn It Into a CCTV or Motion Detection Device

One of the most practical ways to repurpose your old phone is to turn it into a security camera or motion detection device. Designed by Edward Snowden (yes, the cybersecurity expert), the Haven: Keep Watch app turns your existing smartphone into a full-fledged surveillance device, leveraging your phone’s camera and sensors to keep an eye out on your home, alerting you of any movement or sudden changes that may require your attention.

Setting up your old phone as a security camera is straightforward. Download the Haven app, place your phone in a strategic location where you want surveillance, and ensure it’s plugged into a power source to avoid running out of battery. Haven utilizes the phone’s camera, microphone, and even accelerometer to detect movement and sounds, sending alerts to your primary phone. This setup is perfect for monitoring pets, keeping an eye on your front door, or even ensuring the safety of your belongings while you’re away. Instead of investing in expensive CCTV systems, you can use your old phone to keep everything in check. The best part? This solution is cost-effective and can be set up in minutes.

02. Use It as a Dedicated Music Player

You know what’s better than Spotify’s now-dead Car Thing? An old phone that you can use as a dedicated audio player for both your home AND your car. Turning your old phone into a dedicated music player is a great way to keep your tunes handy without impacting the performance of your primary device.

Start by wiping your old phone clean to free up space. Then, download your favorite music streaming apps like Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music. You can also transfer your personal music collection to the device. Once your music library is set up, you can use your old phone exclusively for music, whether you’re at the gym, in the car, or relaxing at home. For those who love high-quality audio, pairing your old phone with a good set of Bluetooth headphones or speakers can provide a rich listening experience. Plus, if your primary phone’s battery is running low, your music won’t have to stop.

03. Create a Portable Gaming Console

Your old phone doesn’t need to retire from providing entertainment. Instead, transform it into a portable gaming console. Pair it with a nice phone-holding controller from Backbone or Razer and you have yourself a bonafide Nintendo Switch replacement!

First, ensure your old phone has enough storage space by removing unnecessary apps and files. Next, download your favorite games from the app store. You can also install emulators for classic games, turning your phone into a portable arcade. Many Bluetooth controllers are compatible with smartphones, offering a console-like experience on the go. Picture yourself on a long flight or a road trip, and instead of draining your new phone’s battery with games, you have a dedicated gaming device. Games like “Call of Duty: Mobile,” “PUBG Mobile,” and classic arcade games can provide hours of entertainment without compromising your primary phone’s battery life or storage.

Moreover, this setup can be a great way to keep kids entertained without giving them access to your new phone. Set up parental controls, download educational games, and let them enjoy without any worries.

04. Set It Up as a Smart Home Controller

Smart homes are becoming increasingly common and nobody here likes the idea of having 20 different remotes for their different smart gadgets, or having 5-6 different IoT apps cluttering their existing smartphone. Here’s where your old phone can serve as a dedicated smart home controller, making it easy to manage your various smart devices from a single screen.

Start by downloading apps for all your smart home devices, such as smart lights, thermostats, security cameras, and speakers. Group these apps into a single folder on your old phone’s home screen for easy access. This setup can help you control your home’s environment efficiently and conveniently while turning that old phone into a universal remote… so that you don’t have to turn your existing phone into one. It’s clean, efficient, and acts as your dedicated control center that anyone in your home can use, rather than 5 members of your house installing multiple apps on all their devices.

05. Use It as a Digital Photo Frame

Your old phone can serve as a beautiful digital photo frame, showcasing your favorite memories on your desk, shelf, or bedside table. This use not only breathes new life into the device but also brings a touch of nostalgia and personal touch to your space.

Start by wiping your old phone clean and downloading a digital photo frame app, such as Digital Photo Frame Slideshow. Transfer your favorite photos to the phone, either through a cloud service or by connecting the phone to your computer. Set the app to display a slideshow of your images, and place the phone in a location where you can enjoy the rotating gallery of your cherished moments. This setup is particularly useful for displaying family photos, travel memories, or even a rotating selection of your best shots if you’re a photography enthusiast.

06. Convert It Into a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

Another fantastic way to utilize your old phone is to turn it into a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. This can be particularly useful when traveling or in areas with poor internet connectivity, allowing you to stay connected without relying on public Wi-Fi. I still use my OnePlus phone as a hotspot while traveling, because of its highly underrated ORoaming feature that lets me use mobile internet in practically any country for a small fee.

To set this up, ensure your old phone is still functional and can connect to your cellular network or can support e-SIM apps internationally. Activate the mobile hotspot feature in the phone’s settings, and configure the hotspot with a secure password. Once set up, you can connect your other devices, such as laptops, tablets, and even your new phone, to the hotspot.

This solution is ideal for road trips, camping, or any situation where reliable internet is essential. It provides a secure and stable connection, helping you avoid the risks associated with using public Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, if you’re working remotely, having a dedicated hotspot can ensure you stay productive without interruptions.

Before you toss your old phone into a drawer or, worse, the trash, consider these six creative ways to repurpose it. From enhancing your home security to enjoying your favorite music and games, your old phone still has plenty of potential. These solutions not only save you money but also provide practical benefits that can improve your daily life.

So, the next time you upgrade to the latest model, remember that your old phone is far from obsolete. With a bit of creativity and the right apps, you can transform it into a useful tool that continues to serve you well beyond its intended lifespan.

The post DON’T Throw Your Old Phone – Here Are 6 Ways You Can Still Use It first appeared on Yanko Design.

Essential PH-2 prototype reveals the super-narrow smartphone that never was

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Smartphone companies come and go, but the more notable ones usually stick around long enough to leave a mark. Essential, however, was fated to just be a bright, short-lived spark. Founded by Android creator Andy Rubin after leaving Google, the brand was supposed to mark a return to the essentials of the smartphone experience, hence the name, but it only ever got to release one product, which admittedly met a warm reception. The rest, as they say, is history, and most of us have probably forgotten the Essential PH-2 that made waves in the days before the company’s demise. Thanks to a few prototypes floating around the Web, we finally get to see this oddity in action, making us wonder whether it would have been a revolutionary success or if it’s fortunate it never got to see the light of day.

Designer: Essential (via Rob Wainright)

If Essential was staging a rebellion against mass-produced smartphones, the Essential PH-2 would be its perfect representative. While most devices were getting larger, this ultra-slim candy bar phone felt like someone had split a phone in half along its length. What you get is similar to a tiny smart TV remote with only a screen for its face. Handy, yet awkward and puzzling.

The front sported a 5.7-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2160×560, refusing to match any of the standard aspect ratios supported by display industries. The back is an all-glass affair as well as a fingerprint magnet, smooth and plain with only a small lump for a single camera and a dimple for a fingerprint sensor. It’s clear that the Essential PH-2 was designed for ergonomics primarily, something that can’t be said of most smartphones today, but some equally important things might have gotten lost along the way.

The Android-based interface revolves around a metaphor of cards or tiles arranged in a long, scrolling column, with each card representing an app. Given the unfinished nature of the device, it’s not surprising that many of these apps simply didn’t work, but those that did work revealed how the phone would have worked in people’s hands. Suffice it to say, watching YouTube won’t be the most enjoyable experience, even if turn the phone on its side for a 480p quality video.

This does raise the question of who this phone was targeted at. Or better yet, who would have bought such an oddity even back then? It wouldn’t be a fun social media experience, given how small images would be and how narrow text would have to be, nor is it good for watching videos. It might appeal to music lovers and maybe vloggers who want a handy camera to hold, though the prototype’s camera quality wasn’t exactly reassuring in that regard. We’ll probably never know now, though Essential still deserves some praise for daring to think outside the box, whether or not it cost them their business in the end.

The post Essential PH-2 prototype reveals the super-narrow smartphone that never was first appeared on Yanko Design.

OnePlus Nord 4 Review: A Game-Changer with Metal Unibody Design

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PROS:


  • Stunning metal unibody design

  • Alert slider

  • Impressive battery performance

  • Long-term support package

  • Fast 100W wired fast charging capability

CONS:


  • No wireless charging

  • Modest 8MP ultrawide camera

  • Limited availability

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Whether for its striking aesthetics, impressive battery life, or rapid charging capabilities, the OnePlus Nord 4 offers great value for users seeking a reliable and feature-rich smartphone experience.

Positioning itself as OnePlus’s midrange smartphone, each iteration of the Nord series has delivered great value, balancing price and performance. However, design has often taken a back seat in OnePlus’s Nord lineup, where aesthetics have been serviceable but not standout. With the latest Nord series, this perception is set to change. The company took on a great design challenge in the era of 5G – OnePlus is bringing back metal and went with a metal unibody design with Nord 4.

In terms of specifications, the OnePlus Nord 4 features a 6.74-inch Super Fluid AMOLED display with Ultra HDR support, a dual camera system, a 5,500 mAh battery with 100W wired charging capability, and is powered by Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset. Is the Nord 4 merely a visually appealing device, or does it offer substance beneath its sleek exterior? We put the phone to the test to uncover the answer.

Designer: OnePlus

Aesthetics

Being the only metal unibody 5G smartphone, according to OnePlus, Nord 4 has a captivating aesthetics. Metal back panels have been more common in the past, but they have become increasingly rare due to the adoption of 5G technology, which requires materials that do not interfere with reception. This shift has led to the predominance of materials like glass, plastic, ceramic, and vegan leather for back panels. OnePlus, with its “Never Settle” spirit, has boldly challenged this norm and created a metal unibody 5G phone by introducing a unique antenna arrangement and U-shaped antenna positioned at the bottom of the device.

The phone is offered in three color options: Obsidian Midnight, Mercurial Silver, and Oasis Green. Each variant showcases a distinctive two-tone design on the back panel, with a glossy plastic covering the upper quarter and a metal lower three-quarters. The plastic section accommodates two horizontally arranged circular cameras and two vertically aligned LED flashlights.

We received the device in Mercurial Silver, and it is one of the most aesthetically pleasing smartphones I’ve ever held so far. The silver variant features beautiful diagonal patterns that create an illusion of depth on the metal section of the back panel, accentuated by a shiny OnePlus logo at the center. According to OnePlus, each Mercurial Silver rear casing goes through a meticulous process with over 28,000 nano-laser cuts, which takes about 12 minutes to finish. The resulting silky texture of the back panel not only delights the eyes but also offers a pleasing tactile experience. While the metal unibody made from aluminum remains largely free of fingerprints, the glossy plastic part is more prone to smudges.

The Obsidian Midnight variant features a brushed gunmetal finish, while the Oasis Green variant pays homage to the OnePlus community’s favorite OnePlus Nord LE design. Whether you opt for Mercurial Silver, Obsidian Midnight, or Oasis Green, you are set to be impressed with Nord 4’s aesthetics.

Ergonomics

Thanks to the metal unibody design, the Nord 4 showcases excellent build quality and feels premium to hold. By seamlessly integrating the sides with the back, the design eliminates any awkward transitions combined with the curved back edge design, ensuring that the phone sits comfortably in the palm.

Being the thinnest Nord ever, the device measures 162.6mm x 75.0mm x 8.9mm. At 199.5g, it’s not the lightest phone, yet its balanced weight distribution ensures it feels comfortable to hold without being overly heavy. The slim profile and well-distributed weight, along with the textured back panel, offer a reassuring feel in hand.

However, the same cannot be said when it comes to unlocking the phone with the fingerprint. The placement of the under-display fingerprint reader is close to the bottom edge of the screen, meaning you need to extend your thumb and probably reposition your grip. Fortunately, the device also supports face recognition for unlocking the phone.

As for the placement of buttons and whatnot, the right side of the phone houses the power button along with the volume rockers on top of it. On the left side, you will find OnePlus’s familiar Alert Slider. The top of the phone houses the earpiece that doubles as a speaker and IR-blaster while the bottom houses the dual SIM slot, primary microphone, USB Type-C port, and speaker.

Performance

Out of the box, the OnePlus Nord 4 runs on OxygenOS 14.1 based on Android 14. Powered by Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 paired with 8, 12, or 16GB of LPDDRX 5 RAM and 256GB or 512GB of storage, the phone can handle tasks smoothly even graphic intense mobile games as you’d expect from OnePlus phones.

Nord 4 packs a massive 5,500 mAh battery, and its performance is admirable. It can easily last a day even under heavy use. The charging speed is fast with 100W SuperVOOC charging support. According to OnePlus, with 100 W SuperVOOC the empty 5,500 mAh battery can be charged to full in 28 minutes. It’s worth noting that the SuperVOOC charger brick is not included with the phone, so to take advantage of this rapid charging capability, you’ll need to purchase a 100W SuperVOOC charger separately.

Nord 4 sports two cameras on its back and a front-facing camera on the top center of the screen. The main 50MP uses a 1/1.95-inch Sony LYT-600 sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and OIS. The ultrawide is a modest 8MP camera using Sony IMX355 with a 1/1.4-inch sensor and an f/2.2 aperture. And, the front-facing camera is a 16MP camera using Sony IMX 471 with a 1/3.0-inch sensor, f/2.4 aperture, and autofocus capability.

The daylight shots captured with the main camera are pretty good, producing sharp and detailed images. The photos with 2x zoom are also good, sadly the photos beyond 2x zoom, the image quality diminishes, making them barely usable. In low-light conditions, the Night mode automatically kicks in which can be inconvenient, but it takes pretty nice images. The photos taken with the ultrawide camera are satisfactory, though they tend to lean towards warmer tones.

The main can take 4k 60fps videos while the ultrawide camera and front-facing camera are limited to 1080p at 30fps. The 4k videos taken with the main under poorly lit conditions came out surprisingly well.

The 6.74-inch AMOLED display with 450 PPI is bright and vibrant. With AquaTouch technology implemented, drops of water on the display won’t be an issue when using the phone.

Sustainability/Repairability

Known for its durability, the phone made out of metal should withstand long periods of usage and tough handling. Additionally, the phone is IP65 rated, so it is fully protected against dust and can survive water splashes. On the software front, OnePlus offers its longest-ever support with four years of Android updates and six years of security updates for the Nord 4. Complementing its durable build and IP rating, the Nord 4 is certified TUV SUD Fluency 72 Month A, promising sustained performance even after six years of heavy use. With rugged hardware, assured sustained performance, and long-term software support, OnePlus ensures that users can enjoy this gorgeous device for years to come.

However, the metal unibody design may pose challenges for repairability, particularly when it comes to replacing the battery, as it typically requires opening the back panel, which is integrated due to the unibody construction.

Value

The OnePlus Nord 4 is priced competitively starting at 499 Euros (approximately $545), making it a compelling choice in the fiercely competitive midrange smartphone market. While it may not boast the best camera capabilities within its segment, the Nord 4 excels in achieving a fine balance between price and performance. Its striking aesthetics, impressive battery life, and rapid charging capabilities are standout features that add to its allure.

In a landscape where midrange options abound, the Nord 4 stands out for its blend of affordability and functionality. Despite its competitive price point, it doesn’t compromise on key aspects such as design appeal, enduring battery performance, and swift charging speeds. These attributes make the Nord 4 a noteworthy contender for anyone seeking a stylish and efficient smartphone without breaking the bank.

Verdict

The OnePlus Nord 4 exemplifies OnePlus’s commitment to delivering exceptional value in the midrange smartphone market. With each iteration of the Nord series, OnePlus has consistently balanced price and performance, and the Nord 4 is no exception. Unlike its predecessors, the Nord 4 marks a significant shift by reintroducing a metal unibody design, setting it apart in the 5G era with a blend of durability and aesthetic appeal.

Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset, a vibrant 6.74-inch Super Fluid AMOLED display with Ultra HDR support, and a robust camera setup. While its main 50MP camera produces sharp daylight shots and capable low-light images with Night mode, there are limitations with zoom photography and ultrawide shots tend to lean towards warmer tones. Nevertheless, its performance is bolstered by a substantial 5,500 mAh battery and blazing-fast 100W SuperVOOC charging, ensuring long-lasting power and quick refueling.

Whether for its striking aesthetics, impressive battery life, or rapid charging capabilities, the OnePlus Nord 4 offers great value for users seeking a reliable and feature-rich smartphone experience.

The post OnePlus Nord 4 Review: A Game-Changer with Metal Unibody Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

The post HMD Skyline is a Nokia Lumia throwback with repairability at its core first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

The post Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 Hands-on Review: Thin in Size, Big in Everything Else first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

The post OnePlus Nord 4 Design Story: Metal Unibody for an Emotional, Burdenless Experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

realme 13 Pro is coming with ultra clear camera powered by HYPERIMAGE+ AI

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Smartphone cameras have gotten quite powerful, that they might have hit a wall when it comes to hardware. Although they have reached mind-blowing 100 megapixels, sensors have also gotten a little too large for the ever-thinning smartphones. To make up for that slump in optical solutions, manufacturers are turning to software, specifically everyone’s favorite AI special sauce, to produce astounding images and experiences that wouldn’t have been possible with hardware alone. That said, AI alone won’t be enough either, so at its AI Imaging Media Preview Event in Bangkok, realme unveiled a new AI photography architecture that harnesses both powerful optics and powerful algorithms to bring mobile photography to the next level.

Designer: realme

realme’s new HYPERIMAGE+ AI photography architecture, which it claims is a first for the industry, leverages three layers to create its seemingly magical imaging feats. It stands on a solid foundation of powerful hardware, delivered by a new Sony LYT-701, a 50MP sensor with OIS, and a 50MP Sony LYT-600 paired with a periscope-style telephoto lens that lets it zoom in up to 3x without any loss in detail. The hardware alone would have been enough to handle any photography task even in challenging lighting situations, so you can imagine how much more impressive the results would be with help from AI.

HYPERIMAGE+ also utilizes both on-device AI imaging algorithms as well as cloud-based AI image editing to go beyond what the hardware is capable of. HyperRAW, for example, brings image processing capabilities to the high-quality RAW domain, boosting image quality and dynamic range to faithfully recreate light and shadows. AI Pure Bokeh helps in the separation of foreground, midground, and background elements, applying pixel-level segmentation and targeted optimization to create realistic portrait photos, all within seconds. An in the event that the cameras weren’t able to capture enough resolution for rich details, AI Ultra Clarity enhances the image to still produce crystal clear and stunning images.

Oplus_131072

Of course, all these benefits of AI would be meaningless if it doesn’t get into the hands of those who need it the most. Young users, in particular, are always craving stunning photos, striking videos, and unforgettable memories, pushing the boundaries of what their smartphones are capable of. They are, therefore, the perfect audience for this ultra clear camera with AI, and are exactly who the upcoming realme 13 Pro+ will be aiming for. realme’s AI-empowered flagship is set to launch soon, though details are still scant and will be provided closer to the launch date.

The post realme 13 Pro is coming with ultra clear camera powered by HYPERIMAGE+ AI first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smartphone enclosure concept helps develop good relaxation habits

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As powerful and as useful as our smartphones might be, they can also be stumbling blocks not only for productivity but also for mental health. Incessant notifications and the fear of missing out (FOMO) add to the stress and anxiety of the modern world. Of course, ditching your smartphone is no longer an option these days, which is why several designs try to meet the problem halfway, many utilizing minimalist interfaces or drab gray screens to limit our smartphone interaction. Those, however, only solve one part of the problem, leaving many people still unused to taking breaks or relaxing. This concept design for a smartphone accessory tries to do exactly that, keeping your phone safely away from your reach while also helping you get into the habit of taking good breaks from time to time.

Designer: Jeongmin Ham

The most basic strategy people use to avoid distractions from their phones is to put it away, either at a distance or inside a drawer, creating some friction or obstacle to getting the phone instantly. While it can be an effective strategy for some, it’s also a missed opportunity for the smartphone to do something, well, smart. Short of using it as a timer, which can also lead to temptations, it can perhaps be utilized for some other function while keeping its normal distracting features at bay.

FIKA is a concept design for an accessory that does exactly that, keeping your smartphone from distracting you but also putting it to good use in training you to take breaks and use those breaks wisely. It is pretty much a cage or enclosure where you put the phone in, blocking complete use of the device except for a small circular window to a part of the screen. This is the only place where you’ll be able to see the phone’s guidance on how to take a break properly, somewhat like guided meditation apps that have become quite popular these days.

The idea for FIKA is to not just simply put your phone away to avoid distractions but also to develop good habits of taking breaks. And while different people take breaks differently, not everyone has an idea of how to do so properly, so FIKA can suggest certain actions like breathing exercises. Over time, the reminders and the case might not even be needed anymore, as you would have developed the habit and willpower to do it on your own.

The concept design sadly leaves a lot of questions unanswered, like how one will be prevented from just fishing out the phone without some locking mechanism. It also doesn’t mention how the circular window actually works, whether it is just a hole that leaves a part of the phone’s screen exposed or if it’s a touch-sensitive surface that “passes” touches through to the phone inside. Still, the core idea is interesting enough to warrant further thought, especially in an age where people’s mental and physical health has been in decline due to smartphones and overworking.

The post Smartphone enclosure concept helps develop good relaxation habits first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smartphone enclosure concept helps develop good relaxation habits

Posted on by

As powerful and as useful as our smartphones might be, they can also be stumbling blocks not only for productivity but also for mental health. Incessant notifications and the fear of missing out (FOMO) add to the stress and anxiety of the modern world. Of course, ditching your smartphone is no longer an option these days, which is why several designs try to meet the problem halfway, many utilizing minimalist interfaces or drab gray screens to limit our smartphone interaction. Those, however, only solve one part of the problem, leaving many people still unused to taking breaks or relaxing. This concept design for a smartphone accessory tries to do exactly that, keeping your phone safely away from your reach while also helping you get into the habit of taking good breaks from time to time.

Designer: Jeongmin Ham

The most basic strategy people use to avoid distractions from their phones is to put it away, either at a distance or inside a drawer, creating some friction or obstacle to getting the phone instantly. While it can be an effective strategy for some, it’s also a missed opportunity for the smartphone to do something, well, smart. Short of using it as a timer, which can also lead to temptations, it can perhaps be utilized for some other function while keeping its normal distracting features at bay.

FIKA is a concept design for an accessory that does exactly that, keeping your smartphone from distracting you but also putting it to good use in training you to take breaks and use those breaks wisely. It is pretty much a cage or enclosure where you put the phone in, blocking complete use of the device except for a small circular window to a part of the screen. This is the only place where you’ll be able to see the phone’s guidance on how to take a break properly, somewhat like guided meditation apps that have become quite popular these days.

The idea for FIKA is to not just simply put your phone away to avoid distractions but also to develop good habits of taking breaks. And while different people take breaks differently, not everyone has an idea of how to do so properly, so FIKA can suggest certain actions like breathing exercises. Over time, the reminders and the case might not even be needed anymore, as you would have developed the habit and willpower to do it on your own.

The concept design sadly leaves a lot of questions unanswered, like how one will be prevented from just fishing out the phone without some locking mechanism. It also doesn’t mention how the circular window actually works, whether it is just a hole that leaves a part of the phone’s screen exposed or if it’s a touch-sensitive surface that “passes” touches through to the phone inside. Still, the core idea is interesting enough to warrant further thought, especially in an age where people’s mental and physical health has been in decline due to smartphones and overworking.

The post Smartphone enclosure concept helps develop good relaxation habits first appeared on Yanko Design.