Tag Archives: Android

5 Reasons Why the REDMAGIC Nova is the Ultimate Gaming Tablet

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The REDMAGIC Nova Gaming Tablet steps into the market with serious intentions, built for gamers who demand peak performance from their devices. This tablet integrates the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Edition processor with a sophisticated 9-layer cooling system, positioning it as a top contender for competitive gaming. Designed with both power and aesthetics in mind, the Nova ensures long gaming sessions without sacrificing style or performance.

Designer: REDMAGIC

Sleek Design Meets Gaming Durability

This gaming tablet takes a bold approach to design without overlooking the practicalities gamers need. Weighing just 520 grams, the body is crafted from aviation-grade aluminum, balancing durability with lightweight portability. Its 10.9-inch display offers a 2.8K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, delivering fluid, crisp visuals that enhance the immersive gaming experience.

One of the most vivid features is its transparent aluminosilicate glass section, which exposes the tablet’s inner workings, enhanced by customizable RGB lighting. This gives it a distinctive edge, combining a futuristic look with functionality. Whether you’re gaming on the go or in a competitive setting, the Nova is a visually striking device that is durable enough to withstand extended use.

Cooling System Built for Long Play

Many gaming tablets struggle with heat during extended sessions, but the Nova offers a solution. Equipped with a 9-layer cooling system and a 20,000 RPM internal fan, this tablet reduces core temperatures by up to 25°C. The result is consistently smooth performance, even when playing graphically demanding games for hours at a time.

Heat management isn’t just about keeping the tablet comfortable to hold—it directly affects in-game performance. The 3D heat pipe and internal circulation system keep the device cool under pressure, maintaining frame rates and responsiveness. Gamers no longer need to worry about overheating or lag during crucial moments in games like Genshin Impact or Fortnite.

Raw Power for Serious Gaming

At the heart of the Nova is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Edition processor, pushing CPU speeds up to 3.4 GHz and GPU frequencies of 1 GHz. This setup easily handles AAA games, ensuring that even the most demanding titles run smoothly without lag or performance drops. The Nova also excels in multitasking, making it a strong choice for gamers who stream their gameplay or run multiple apps while playing.

With an AnTuTu score of 2,352,902, the Nova showcases the processing power that gives competitive gamers an edge. Whether navigating fast-paced combat in Valorant or exploring open-world environments in Elden Ring, the tablet delivers a responsive, immersive experience every time. For gamers who need reliable, high-powered performance, the Nova’s specifications speak for themselves.

A Battery That Keeps You in the Game

Gaming devices often fall short when it comes to battery life, but the Nova addresses this head-on with a 10,100mAh battery that allows for up to 10 hours of continuous gameplay. For those who use their device beyond gaming, it supports up to 19 hours of regular use, making it versatile enough for work or entertainment between gaming sessions.

The 80W fast charging feature ensures minimal downtime. After just a short break, you’re ready to dive back into gameplay, a crucial advantage for gamers in the middle of competitive matches or immersive campaigns. The extended battery life and rapid charging mean the Nova will keep up with the most demanding schedules.

Gaming Display for Maximum Responsiveness

One of the key features that makes the REDMAGIC Nova ideal for gamers is its 144Hz refresh rate and 840Hz touch sampling rate. This ensures every input is registered instantly, providing a competitive advantage in fast-paced games. Whether sniping in PUBG Mobile or racing through turns in Asphalt 9, the display’s responsiveness is designed to give you the precision and accuracy needed for high-stakes gameplay.

In addition to its responsiveness, the SGS-certified blue light filter reduces eye strain, making it easier to play for extended periods. This attention to comfort, alongside its visual performance, makes the Nova a gaming powerhouse that’s easy on the eyes.

Immersive Audio for Enhanced Gameplay

The Nova doesn’t stop at visuals and performance—it brings audio into the equation with four symmetrical speakers and DTS Ultra certification for a 3D sound experience. This feature creates an audio environment where gamers can hear every subtle detail, from enemy footsteps in Call of Duty: Mobile to atmospheric sounds in The Witcher: Monster Slayer.

Clear communication is vital in team-based games. The three built-in microphones ensure that voice chats with teammates remain crisp and clear, allowing for better coordination in multiplayer sessions. For gamers focused on immersive sound and effective teamplay, the Nova offers the tools to enhance every part of the experience.

Perfect for Hardcore Gamers

The REDMAGIC Nova Gaming Tablet doesn’t just meet the demands of everyday use—it’s built to excel in competitive and immersive gaming scenarios. With its powerful processor, next-level cooling system, and immersive audio and visuals, the Nova is a true companion for gamers who need reliability, performance, and portability.

From marathon gaming sessions to live-streaming, the Nova supports the needs of serious players. Whether pushing the limits in AAA titles or managing multiple apps simultaneously, the Nova keeps you in control. For gamers seeking a high-performance, well-designed device that delivers on all fronts, the REDMAGIC Nova is hard to beat.

The post 5 Reasons Why the REDMAGIC Nova is the Ultimate Gaming Tablet first appeared on Yanko Design.

Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra tablet puts AI on an extra-large 14-inch screen

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I can still remember the time when Samsung was all but ridiculed for launching the 12.2-inch Galaxy Note Pro in 2014, but who would have known that it was just too ahead of its time? Fast forward a decade later, even Apple has a 13-inch iPad Pro, and unsurprisingly, Samsung won’t be outdone. Of course, there might be a limit to what can still be considered a portable tablet, but those lines are being blurred now that “Pro” tablets are being positioned as laptop replacement. And just like many Windows laptops today boast Microsoft Copilot features, Samsung is bringing the full power of its Galaxy AI to its largest mobile screens.

Designer: Samsung

With a 14.6-inch screen, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra might be stretching the definition of a tablet, but it’s undoubtedly a very portable size for a detachable laptop and a digital drawing pad. Of course, Samsung has been marketing its Tab S series as a tablet for pros, but this time it’s adding a new element to the mix to make that even more plausible. Its putting AI, its own Galaxy AI, of course, front, center, and across the full width of that large screen, promising to upgrade your productivity as you upgrade your hardware.

In terms of design, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is a dead ringer for last year’s Samsung flagship tablet, which means you’re still getting a simple and no-nonsense design. Mirroring the aesthetics of its current Galaxy S smartphones, it has flat edges, a flat back, and two separate rings for the 13MP and 8MP cameras. There’s still that magnetic charging groove across the back for the included S Pen, making sure you don’t lose the all-important accessory too easily.

Samsung is making a lot of noise about the AI features on the tablet, all of them geared for productivity and creativity. Note Assist and Handwriting Help make it easier to make sense of notes, while Sketch to Image lets your artistic spirit free. There’s also Google’s now famous Circle to Search gesture, and the official Book Cover Keyboard naturally has a dedicated Galaxy AI Key to launch your AI assistant of choice, whether it’s Samsung Bixby or Galaxy Gemini.

In terms of specs, Samsung naturally crammed the best of mobile hardware inside, except for one curious but critical compoment. Samsung opted to use a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor instead of the usual Qualcomm Snapdragon, and some might have doubts about whether it can handle heavy AI loads, among other tasks. Regardless, the 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, 12GB of RAM, and 11,200mAh battery all come together for a premium experience. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra starts at a rather eye-watering $1,200, but those who prefer slightly smaller screens can opt for the 12.2-inch Galaxy Tab S10+ with a matching $1,000 price tag. Sadly, no smaller Galaxy Tab S10 model this year.

The post Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra tablet puts AI on an extra-large 14-inch screen first appeared on Yanko Design.

Galaxy S24 FE tries to make AI and minimalist design more accessible

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Ever since it relaunched the ill-fated Galaxy Note 7, Samsung has been launching a new “Fan Edition” S series flagship every year. The Samsung FE series is supposed to bring the most wanted features of its high-end phones down to a more affordable price tag, which means it does have to cut some corners to reach that price point. Cameras and battery life have always been the main focus of the Galaxy FE phones, but this year brings an unsurprising addition to that set. With the Galaxy S24 FE, Samsung is making an even bigger push for its Galaxy AI suite, trying to push it to more people with a handset that won’t kill their budget too much.

Designer: Samsung

In terms of design, the Galaxy S24 FE strangely stands in between the Galaxy S24+ and the Galaxy S24 Ultra. It has an unapologetically large 6.7-inch screen, but its actual size is made even bigger by the wider bezels you won’t see on the more premium Galaxy S24 series. It does at least have the same elegant minimalist design as the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24+ with its rounded corners, flat edges, and flat front and back.

Of course, the “Fan Edition” phones come with plenty of compromises if you compare them to the standard flagship. In this particular case, the Galaxy S24 FE has a slightly dimmer screen that has fixed refresh rates of either 60Hz or 120Hz only, an underclocked mid-range Exynos 2400e processor, and only 8GB of RAM. That said, it does have a larger 4,700mAh battery compared to the 4,000mAh battery on the Galaxy S24, and it has almost similar 50MP main and 12MP ultra-wide cameras. The 3x telephoto camera, however, only has an 8MP sensor.

Unsurprisingly, a lot of the focus in this release is on Galaxy AI and the features that it enables. Those include retouching photos, making amusing compositions, and of course, Circle to Search with Google. Hopefully, the phone’s modest specs will be able to catch up with the demanding AI features without making the phone too hot to handle.

What is surprising is that Samsung is making the same support commitment it made with its more expensive phones, namely seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates. The phone also uses some materials made from recycled plastics, aluminum, glass, and rare earth metals, which is pretty impressive for a “cheaper” variant of a flagship phone. All of these come with a $649.99 price tag for 128GB of storage ($709.99 for 256GB), which isn’t all that bad considering you’re getting a solid phone from a reputable brand.

The post Galaxy S24 FE tries to make AI and minimalist design more accessible first appeared on Yanko Design.

Xiaomi 14T Pro Review: Flagship Features Without the Flagship Price

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PROS:


  • Solid camera performance

  • Fast wired and wireless charging capabilities

  • Bright and easy-to-eyes display


CONS:


  • Uninspiring color options

  • Minor hardware upgrade from the predecessor


RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With its combination of features and competitive pricing, the Xiaomi 14T Pro delivers a well-rounded experience that is sure to satisfy the needs of most users.

2024 has been a year of remarkable growth and innovation for Xiaomi. Building upon its success in the smartphone market, the company has expanded its horizons with the launch of its first electric vehicle, the SU7, back in March. The company then proceeded with the launch of its first-ever flip phone, the Xiaomi MIX Flip, as well as the fourth iteration of its flagship foldable, the MIX Fold 4. Impressive sales figures for the SU7 and the positive reception of the MIX Flip and MIX Fold 4 demonstrated Xiaomi’s ability to capture market shares in diverse product categories. It is clear that Xiaomi wants to take advantage of this moment and solidify its position as a leading global technology brand with the launch of the Xiaomi 14T and 14T Pro. Part of its budget-friendly numbered T series, the Xiaomi 14T Pro boasts flagship features similar to its flagship Xiaomi 14 and 14 Ultra phones, such as cameras co-developed with Leica. But does Xiaomi still have its magic touch or has it spread itself too thin? Read on to find out.

Aesthetics

The Xiaomi 14T Pro’s understated design is its strength. While it doesn’t offer groundbreaking aesthetics, its simplicity is elegant. The familiar design language from its predecessor is carried over into this model. Available in Titan Gray, Titan Blue, and Titan Black, but choosing a color shouldn’t be a challenge as they all offer similar aesthetics. I wish Xiaomi had explored more fun color options. We received the Titan Black variant. The matte black back panel is speckled for a light-catching effect and features a velvety texture that resists fingerprint smudges.

The device’s square camera island is big but maintains a discreet profile that matches the color of the back panel. The camera island’s smooth surface contrasts with the back panel’s textured finish. The arrangement of the cameras and LED light is perfectly symmetrical, centered around the Leica logo. Each camera and LED light is housed in a raised circular enclosure, making it slightly more challenging to clean dust that may accumulate. That said, it carries a sort of LEGO block vibe that makes it stand out a bit, especially from the rest of the Xiaomi 14 series.

The small Xiaomi logo in silver is positioned on the lower left and the regulatory icons and text on the lower right. Overall, 14T Pro offers a clean design, while the matte textured back panel and metallic aluminum alloy frame give it a premium feel. It is simple and direct, a breath of fresh air from the visually noisy designs of recent smartphones.

Ergonomics

Measuring 160.4mm x 75.1mm x 8.39mm and weighing 209g, the Xiaomi 14T Pro leans towards the larger side of the spectrum. Despite its size, the device feels comfortable to hold, whether with one or both hands. All edges slightly curve into the frame giving comfort, while the flat sides provide a better grip when you hold the device in your hand.

The right side of the phone features volume and power buttons with diagonal engraving, while the left side remains clean except for antenna cutouts. The top houses an IR blaster and speaker, while the bottom accommodates a dual SIM slot, microphone, USB-C port, and speaker. The sides might be busy with these many parts, but they visually blend into the frame and stay out of the way of your fingers or your palm when you hold the phone.

The off-center camera module can cause the phone to wobble slightly on flat surfaces which might be a minor inconvenience if they are sensitive to such details. Nothing that a case wouldn’t fix, of course, and it’s a design trait shared by almost all smartphones these days. The Xiaomi 14T Pro is thankfully not uncomfortable to hold and use despite its large size, though it doesn’t stand out as an example of good ergonomics either.

Performance

Xiaomi’s collaboration with Leica has significantly elevated its camera capabilities, resulting in exceptional photo and video quality. This partnership continues as Xiaomi works with Leica on its more budget-friendly flagship models, ensuring high-quality imaging remains accessible. The 14T Pro features a triple camera setup, including a 50MP main camera with an f/1.6 aperture, a 50MP telephoto camera with an f/2.0 aperture, and a 12MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.2 aperture. All three cameras offer two Leica photographic styles: “Leica Vibrant” and “Leica Authentic.”

The main camera features a Light Fusion 900 sensor and delivers great photos with nice detail, wide dynamic range, natural colors, and minimal noise in both daylight and low-light conditions. While the dynamic range is generally great, exposure often skews toward the brighter end, leading to washed-out highlights and crushed shadows in some situations. Additionally, HDR performance struggles with motion, especially in low-light environments, leading to blurry images of moving subjects.

Ultrawide (0.6x)

1x

2x

2.3x

The telephoto camera performs well in most scenarios, maintaining good detail and color accuracy. In contrast, the ultra-wide camera produces acceptable photos, but it tends to lack sharpness and detail in challenging conditions.

Telephoto (5x)

Telephoto (10x)

Telephoto (20x)

Portrait mode offers four focal lengths, 23mm, 35mm, 60mm, and 75mm, with the default set to 60mm. While the 60mm and 75mm portraits are captured with the telephoto camera, the 23mm and 35mm portraits are shot with the main camera. All portrait photos I took, regardless of focal length, exhibited impressive subject isolation and pleasing bokeh.

Normal (1x)

Portrait (60mm)

Although color rendering remains consistent across different cameras and magnifications in regular photo mode, a noticeable shift in white balance can be observed between photos captured with the telephoto and main cameras in portrait mode.

Portrait (23mm)

Portrait (35mm)

Portrait (75mm)

On the opposite side, the upgraded 32 MP front camera with f/2.0 aperture takes satisfactory photos, which isn’t that surprising given the hardware. The Xiaomi 14T Pro can record videos up to 8K at 24 or 30 fps with the main camera, while the telephoto and ultra-wide cameras are capable of shooting videos up to 4K at 60 fps. The front-facing camera can record up to 4K at 30 fps and 1080p at 60 fps. The 4K footage from the main and telephoto cameras is impressive, showcasing good detail, realistic colors, and a wide dynamic range, all complemented by excellent stabilization.

While the Xiaomi 14T Pro offers incremental hardware improvements compared to its predecessors, its most significant advancements lie in its AI capabilities. The device supports Google Gemini and introduces Circle to Search, a first for Xiaomi devices. Additional AI features include AI Interpreter, AI Notes, AI Recorder, and AI Subtitles. These AI features and Circle to Search will be available via an over-the-air (OTA) update starting September 26th, which means they aren’t accessible during this review period.

One of the AI features I was able to test was AI Erase Pro, and it was remarkably effective. The tool offers four modes: Manual, Remove Object, Remove People, and Remove Lines. The Remove People mode was particularly impressive, accurately recognizing individuals and color-coding them. Even when people were positioned in a staggered formation, the AI could identify each person. However, while erasing people from the photos worked well, the shadows were left unmanipulated.

The other impressive feature of the Xiaomi 14T Pro is a big 6.67-inch AMOLED flat screen that boasts a 1.5K resolution (2,712 x 1,220), a 144Hz refresh rate, and a pixel density of 446 ppi. Supporting 12-bit color depth, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, the display delivers sharp, vibrant visuals. Even under direct sunlight, the peak brightness of 4,000 units ensures excellent visibility while the 3,840 Hz PWM dimming reduces eye fatigue. Also, the stereo speaker is plenty loud and produces nice sounds, making the phone great for enjoying movies.

The 5,000mAh battery provides sufficient power for a full day of use. If you need a quick boost, Xiaomi’s 120W HyperCharge technology allows for incredibly fast wired charging, reaching a full charge in about 19 minutes, as stated by the company. Additionally, the 14T Pro supports 50W wireless charging, a much-welcome upgrade. Xiaomi claims that the device can be fully charged with a wireless charger in approximately 45 minutes. My personal experience aligns with these impressive capabilities.

The device runs HyperOS based on Android 14 and Google services are thankfully available out of the box. Powered by MediaTek’s flagship Dimensity 9300+ chipset and paired with 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, the Xiaomi 13T Pro delivers great performance. The device handles multitasking seamlessly, with no noticeable lag or stutter even when running multiple apps simultaneously. Additionally, it does not get hot during extended video shoots or gaming sessions, enhancing the overall user experience.

Sustainability/Repairability

The Xiaomi 14T Pro promises a 1,600 battery life cycle and delivers IP68 dust and water resistance, ensuring both durability and longevity. Its longevity and overall sustainability aspects, however, are not as promising, especially in the area of software updates. This is somewhat disappointing for a company that is becoming one of the industry’s leading players. As the tech industry increasingly emphasizes environmental responsibility, Xiaomi has an opportunity to take a leading role by integrating sustainability into all of its products and, hopefully, it won’t let that opportunity pass it by.

Value

The Xiaomi 14T Pro positions itself as a compelling option for those seeking a high-performance smartphone without breaking the bank. It offers a blend of flagship-level features and a more affordable price point. While its camera may not quite reach the heights of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, it still delivers excellent results for everyday photography and videography. It delivers much of what it promises on paper, but the real question is whether it is something you will reach for in your next smartphone buy.

Xiaomi is definitely not the only player in this field, including in the mid-range market where there are dozens of brands and models to choose from. And while the Xiaomi 14T Pro is definitely good, it doesn’t exactly stand out in any specific way. It’s a well-balanced phone, no doubt, but it might overlooked when placed side-by-side with other mid-range phones with better cameras, higher performance, or, more importantly, lower price tags.

Verdict

The Xiaomi 14T Pro may not be the most exciting phone, but there is no doubt it offers a tempting value proposition. Its solid camera performance, powerful processor, fast-charging capabilities, and vibrant display make it a compelling option for users who prioritize performance and affordability. It may not offer the absolute pinnacle of smartphone technology, leaving that for its more powerful and more expensive non-T siblings, but it doesn’t lag behind in any significant way either. With its combination of features and competitive pricing, the Xiaomi 14T Pro delivers a well-rounded experience that is sure to satisfy the needs of most users.

The post Xiaomi 14T Pro Review: Flagship Features Without the Flagship Price first appeared on Yanko Design.

Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL Review: AI Future Today

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PROS:


  • Distinctive, premium, and sleek design

  • Strong sustainability effort

  • Good camera output with software processing

  • Seven years of software support

CONS:


  • Gets mildly hot under intense use

  • Pixel 9 Pro: Slow 27W charging

  • Base storage starts at a measly 128GB

  • Some AI features still feel a bit gimmicky

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With a premium and elegant design and impressive photography performance, the Google Pixel 9 Pro offers a glimpse into a future where AI makes lives easier and more meaningful.

In the beginning, Google was content to let its hardware partners shape people’s impressions of the Android mobile platform. With the launch of the first Pixel phone in 2016, however, it started to reveal its own vision for Android, not just in terms of software but for the overall user experience. Of course, visions and priorities change over time, and so do the focus and design for Pixel phones. With everything these days revolving around AI, it’s no surprise that Gemini, Google’s own AI platform, is at the heart of the new Pixel 9 series. But are these phones just vehicles for Gemini or do they have more to offer? With the smaller Pixel 9 Pro and the extra-large Pixel 9 Pro XL in our hands, we give Google’s latest smartphones a spin to see what all the fuss is about.

Designer:

Aesthetics

Remember the “Panda Phone,” a.k.a. the Google Pixel 2 XL? Pixel phones have always had rather distinctive designs bordering on being playful and fun. But as the phone line matured, so did their designs. Compared to the very first Pixels, the Pixel 9 Pro is more mellow, subdued, and grown up. Even the colors are a bit muted compared the last year’s selection. And it’s actually all for the best.

Google Pixel 9 Pro

Google Pixel 9 Pro

Google Pixel 9 Pro

The Pixel 9 Pro now competes in a market where the previously young generation are now young adults and budding professionals. Tastes and needs change, and product design needs to adapt. Gone is the distinctive but divisive “visor” camera bar, now with an equally eye-catching but more modern-looking pill. It still sits across the width of the phone but leaves some space at the sides. While this gives the Pixel 9 Pro a more unified and mature appearance, it also makes the past dual-tone color combinations impossible to implement, at least not without some superficial gimmick.

The change in camera design also frees the Pixel 9 Pro to finally adopt what is now regarded to be a more contemporary convention: flatness all around. The edges are flat and, at long last, so is the back. There will be many that will disagree, definitely, but it’s a change that’s a long time coming either way. The four corners are still very much curved, of course, but this pillow design not only softens the appearance of the Pixel 9 Pro a bit but also literally softens the feel in your hand. One curious detail is that the SIM card tray at the bottom is also curved to follow the contour of the phone’s corner. It shows an attention to detail you might have come to expect from a certain fruity company but not from Google.

Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro gives off an aura of professionalism, maturity, and subtle elegance. It highlights the premium materials that Google has always been using but now feels more noticeable. Yes, it’s still playing up some of the fun things you can accomplish with the phone, especially with generative AI, but that is now a function of the user experience rather than the phone’s aesthetics. It’s almost as if Google wanted to show that, yes, the Pixel 9 Pro is now all grown up so you don’t have to feel shy about taking it out in the boardroom or in galas.

Ergonomics

Disregarding their foldable sibling, the Pixel 9 series this year comes in three models but only two sizes. Both the “plain” Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro come with 6.3-inch screens while the Pixel 9 Pro XL enjoys a much larger 6.8-inch screen. Except for the rather large $200 price difference, there almost isn’t any significant reason to go for the non-Pro model when the Pixel 9 Pro comes in that same handy size but also offers a lot more, well, pixels.

And handy it truly is, making the Pixel 9 Pro easier to hold and operate, even with one hand. The premium materials, particularly the matte glass finish, offer a good grip, and those flat edges sink better into your hand than curved ones. And for good measure, that horizontal camera island gives your index finger a good resting spot, almost like a built-in grip. That camera “pill” design also has one advantage when the phone is laid on a table: it doesn’t wobble.

In that context, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is obviously harder to handle, but that’s the price you’ll have to pay for a much larger screen. In terms of materials and design, it’s equal to the smaller Pixel 9 Pro, but unless you have very large hands, chances are, you will be gripping the phone harder than normal, at least if you’re holding it with one hand only. It could lead to a bit of strain and tiredness in the long run and a bit less confidence in holding the phone overall.

Performance

The Pixel 9 series also debuted Google’s fourth-gen self-made silicon, the Tensor G4. From the very beginning, these processors were made with AI and machine learning in mind, hence the name, and it definitely shows here, for better or worse. If you will be judging solely by benchmarks, you might come off pretty disappointed. It definitely lags behind the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, let alone Apple’s new A18, but don’t let those numbers fool you. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL perform quite well in real-world scenarios, and even better when AI is involved, to no one’s surprise.

If there’s one actually unfortunate aspect of the Tensor G4, it would be its continuing thermal woes. It doesn’t get burning hot, mind you, but the Pixel 9 gets noticeably warm sometimes even under moderate load. This is even more pronounced in the smaller Pixel 9 Pro, perhaps due to its smaller size. More than just some discomfort, this could affect performance, especially in graphics, where the Tensor G4 is forced to throttle sooner to lower the temperature faster.

Pixel phones have always been great in photography, and not always because they have great camera hardware. From the very beginning, Google has relied on computational photography to do more with less, and it has been quite successful at that. This year, it didn’t even skimp on the hardware, giving both Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL the same powerful trio of cameras: a 50MP main camera with OIS, a 48MP periscope telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom and OIS, and a 48MP ultra-wide shooter.

As you can probably guess, the combination of decent hardware and even more advanced software results in rather impressive photos and videos. Details are rich, colors are accurate, noise is low, and even a 10x “hybrid” zoom results in decent captures. That’s true even when the lighting isn’t perfect, though there are times when you can catch that the Pixel 9 did a little too much processing to compensate. Of course, there are also plenty of AI features at work here, and that’s also when things can get a bit spotty. Zoom Enhance might sound and look great on CSI, but you might end up catching the wrong person if you rely on the Pixel’s sometimes erroneous guesswork.

AI is, of course, the bread and butter of the Pixel 9 Pro, almost to the point that you could say that it is its raison d’être. Gemini Advanced and Gemini Live, in particular, take center stage in any Pixel 9 discussion, and it is where the phone both shines and, to some extent, fails. No, it’s not that it flops in performance or believability. In fact, it’s scary good that you might even start to worry about the future of humanity. The problem lies in what can be considered really useful and what is just fluff, and, in the final analysis, whether the Pixel 9 Pro has any value without those.

The Pixel 9 Pro is naturally overflowing with AI features. Gemini Live ventures into uncanny valley with its natural sounding voices and conversational capabilities, though you might want to always fact-check before driving to a recommended restaurant that closed years ago. Call Notes is going to be a lifesaver for people who always find themselves in online meetings, and thankfully Gemini openly declares its presence to let other people know there’s an invisible participant. There are also the basics like summarize for long articles and, of course, translate.

And then there are the AI features for more “creative” activities, like Magic Editor’s Reimagine which lets you replace the sky or the ground with other elements, basically a photo-bashing tool on your phone. Pixel Studio is Gemini’s version of text-based image editor everyone’s raving or ranting about, except it can’t or won’t generate images of people. And then there’s Add Me, which lets you compose yourself or any other person into the shot by taking two versions. Useful for when you have nobody around to take a group photo and fun for the first few times.

Some of these features can be quite useful, while others feel more like gimmicks to flex Gemini’s AI muscles. And others still feel like they need a few more iterations to become reliable, presuming you’ll even use them in the future. And for all of those features, Gemini takes up a 3GB chunk of the Pixel 9 Pro’s 16GB RAM, whether you use it or not.

Sustainability

Google has clearly set itself apart from other Android phone manufacturers, not just in design or in how it presents Android, but also in how it ensures the health of the planet for every Pixel made. Every year, it steps up its efforts to use more sustainable materials, like how the Pixel 9 Pro frame is made from 100% recycled aluminum and how its packaging is 100% plastic-free.

And there’s the effort to ensure the longevity of the Pixel 9 Pro, both in hardware and software. Google has committed to serving seven years’ worth of software updates, so the Pixel 9 is guaranteed to remain fresh until 2031 at least. That hopefully also means that kinks in Gemini’s results will also be ironed over time and pushed to the Pixel 9 Pro. Google is also working with iFixit to add the Pixel 9 to the self-repair list, providing instructions and official replacement parts. It won’t be a comprehensive selection, but still better than zero.

Value

Now comes the hard part, determining whether the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are worth their weight in gold. That “gold” is actually $999 and $1,099 for the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL, respectively, and the price gives you the base model with 16GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Yes, you only get 128GB of internal storage that you can never expand, at least not physically. Of course, Google wants you to use its cloud storage for almost everything, but that paltry capacity is really stingy. And then there’s the hidden cost of Gemini Advanced, which will be a $20 monthly subscription after the first free year runs out. But if people won’t migrate to a paid subscription for those AI features, what will be left of the Pixel 9 Pro?

Without AI, the Pixel 9 Pro is a pretty OK Android phone, but it’s really just a little above average. Yes, the cameras are great and don’t rely on Gemini to produce great results, but they’re not the best in class either. Performance outside of AI is pretty mediocre, and mobile gamers will be left unsatisfied with the results. The Pixel 9 Pro really shines brightest when you take into account AI and Gemini, and there might not be any better vehicle for Google’s AI. But if you’re not part of that crowd, there might be little reason to reach for a Pixel 9 Pro for now or upgrade from a Pixel 8 Pro that will be getting some of those AI features soon anyway.

Verdict

The Google Pixel is finally all grown up. From a frivolous youth, it has now become a rather dashing and elegant smartphone with a design that can stand proud beside the biggest players in the market. It retains its impressive camera performance thanks to a combination of contemporary camera hardware and improved imaging algorithms. There are some hardware choices that make little sense in this day and age, such as the 128GB base storage and 27W charging for the Pixel 9 Pro. Its focus on AI, however, is both its strength as well as its weakness. Gemini’s capabilities are impressive and sometimes downright frightening, but not everyone is completely sold on it, especially with a $999 price tag that will have a $20 recurring monthly cost. There might come a time when these AI features will become standard, but that is still in the near future. That makes the Pixel 9 Pro a bit of a harder sell today, no matter how beautiful it has finally become.

The post Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL Review: AI Future Today first appeared on Yanko Design.

7-foot iPhone 15 Pro Max is the world’s largest iPhone and it runs Android

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If Steve Jobs ever knew that YouTube creators would someday run Android on an iPhone and bag a Guinness World Record for it, he probably would have never created an iPhone in the first place. Thankfully there are iPhones – in fact, iPhone 16 lineup is slated for launch today – and we get to see a giant functional replica of the currently top-of-the-line iPhone that measures 6.74 feet tall and weighs roughly 440 pounds.

If you are a DIYer or a tech aficionado there is a slim chance you haven’t heard of Matthew Perks and Arun Maini. The high-profile YouTubers, a.k.a. “DIY Perks” and “Mrwhosetheboss” respectively, have partnered to build a gigantic working replica of an iPhone 15 Pro Max. This humongous iPhone definitely destroys the very idea of a handheld phone, but despite its astounding size, it is immensely functional; which is why it has been adjudged the largest iPhone ever and awarded the official Guinness World Records for the same.

Designers: Arun Maini x Matthew Perks

From the videos about the making and the demonstration of its functionality for the record, I was convinced this is a way more powerful iPhone than Apple would ever make. But the excitement diminished slightly on learning that this Gulliver of iPhones in the Lilliput Island of smartphones runs Android with few tweaks and themed skin to achieve the iPhone appearance and functionality.

Taking nothing away from this highly detailed smartphone build: I’m back and impressed! And why not, this entire thing is built to the tune of $70,000. The construction starts with a massive LG 88-inch LG OLED TV for the touchscreen display, placed inside a specially designed aluminum casing. The hardware inside is no way short of impressive either.

Without going too much into detail, for that you’d enjoy better in the descriptive video above, this big iPhone comes with 128GB of RAM and 4TB of internal storage. The tipple camera array on the back is topped by a 45MP Canon R5 camera, sporting a 28mm lens, and a Sony RX10 Mark 4 to mimic the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s telephoto lens. With the details on the screen and in the body matching that off the inspiration iPhone, the largest iPhone can take impressive photos, recording 8K resolution videos, blast music at 50W, send emails, tap-to-pay for purchases, and even play Flappy Bird that iPhones haven’t been able to download in a decade now.

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Vivo V40 Review: Keeping Things Simple and Sweet

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PROS:


  • Stylish and slim design

  • Large 5,500mAh battery

  • Impressive triple 50MP camera system

  • IP68 dust and water resistance rating

CONS:


  • Same specs as the Vivo V30 from early 2024

  • No dedicated telephoto camera

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Vivo V40 puts a new chic style on a proven no-nonsense phone that delivers a solid experience at an accessible price point.

The smartphone market is a very congested and crowded place, not just with multiple competing brands but with each brand putting out multiple models per generation on multiple tiers. You’d think these companies want to just put their best foot forward, but instead, they try to target different audiences and budgets. Of course, there will have to be certain compromises for devices that aim for a lower market tier, but the question is just how much can you sacrifice before all you’re left with is an unusable, unappealing slab of metal, glass, and plastic. That’s the question that the Vivo V40 has to face in light of its well-received Pro sibling, and we give it a good try to see just how well it can perform under certain constraints.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

With so many smartphones now sporting more powerful and bigger cameras, it’s no surprise how many are scrambling to fit them in an elegant design and how some are failing to succeed. Given the two 50MP cameras on its back, it’s actually quite a pleasant surprise that Vivo managed to hit the nail on the head with its V40 series. There’s still a noticeable and technically thick bump on the rear, but it is presented in such an elegant way that you probably wouldn’t mind at all.

The key to this design is what Vivo dubbed the Gemini Ring, inspired by the constellation of the same name. It pairs two smaller circles in a bigger circle, playing on the “twin” theme. Technically speaking, the lower “ring” with the Aura Light is a bit taller and connects to the ring that houses the actual cameras, resulting in a shape that resembles a sleek keyhole. It’s an interesting visual element that grabs your attention but doesn’t scream at you.

The rest of the Vivo V40’s back is just as elegant as that camera design, with a variety of colors that add an artistic character to the phone. Our review unit, for example, is the Moonlight White which has a few patches of blue that resemble the surface of the moon at night. The back has a very glossy finish which, as you might have guessed, is a fingerprint magnet, though the color of the design at least makes those smudges harder to see.

The Vivo V40’s large screen curves to the side, giving it the illusion of a thin profile. We seem to live in an age of flat screens and flat edges, so this “classic” design might offer some relief to fans. It does come with some usability consequences, though, depending on how you hold it, and not everyone finds this aesthetic that appealing these days.

Ergonomics

At only 7.58mm thick and weighing only 190g (0.42 lbs), the Vivo V40 is incredibly thin and light, especially when you consider the extra-large battery it packs inside. It won’t strain your hand when holding the phone for a long time, but due to its size, you’re more likely to hold it with two hands unless you’re just idly scrolling away.

The curved edges of the screen are probably a bit more divisive. More than just a cosmetic design, it means that there will be parts of the screen at the edges that are not always visible, depending on the viewing angle, or might be accidentally triggered by parts of your palm or fingers. It doesn’t happen all the time, otherwise, this kind of design wouldn’t have lasted a year, but it might be something to consider when you notice “ghost” touches from time to time.

Performance

Underneath the sleek exterior of the Vivo V40 lies a rather sneaky secret. In many aspects, this is pretty much the Vivo V30 from early 2024, just with a few minor upgrades. It has the same Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor and the same basic memory and storage configuration. There are other similarities as well that we’ll get to later, but the bottom line is that, in terms of performance, you aren’t going to see a distinct generational upgrade.

That means that what was true for the Vivo V30 is true for the Vivo V40, which thankfully means you do get a solid mid-range performer. With enough RAM allocation, which is 12GB plus another 12GB taken from the 512GB storage of our review unit, you have plenty of silicon muscle to get apps moving smoothly and fluidly. You’ll have to turn down the settings for games, but you’ll still be able to enjoy the latest action-packed titles. That said, there is a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 at this point, so it’s rather disappointing that Vivo didn’t push for that extra punch.

The screen is almost the same, a 6.78-inch 2800×1260 120Hz AMOLED display that’s quite vibrant and crisp. This year’s model, however, upgrades the brightness by a considerable margin, which makes the phone even more usable outdoors. It supports HDR10+ but oddly leaves out Dolby Vision, something that might be of concern to video aficionados.

The biggest difference between the two generations is the 5,500mAh battery inside the Vivo V40, a whopping 500mAh increase from its predecessor. It does make the phone heavier and thicker than the V30, but not by much. The battery life gains pretty much make up for that anyway, with an uptime of almost 20 hours, depending on usage. It charges fast, too, at 80W, though not exactly record-breaking. The plot twist here is that Vivo doesn’t include a charger in the box, so you’ll have to find an 80W charger or higher on your own.

The cameras are where it’s all at, of course, and here the Vivo V40 doesn’t disappoint except in one aspect. Again, it’s the same combination of a 50MP f/1.9 main camera with OIS and a 50MP f/2.0 119-degree ultra-wide shooter. The front also gets a 50MP front-facing camera capable of shooting in 4K 30fps, which should probably make you a star in video meetings.

In practice, these ZEISS-tuned cameras deliver as promised, producing detailed and clear shots with natural colors and good exposure. That’s true both in broad daylight as well as low-light or nighttime shots, though the latter sometimes tend to get a little bit overexposed to the point of looking unnatural. Bokeh is pleasant and the separation of foreground and background is quite accurate. The Studio-quality Aura Light ring offers more flexibility with light temperature and intensity, creating more natural-looking lighting when needed. This stellar performance stops when you try to zoom in, though, even at just 2x. At that point, quality starts to degrade, which is to be expected from a camera system without a dedicated telephoto lens.

Sustainability

Vivo has been making big steps in improving its commitment to a greener future, and every little bit counts toward that goal. It might not be using recycled metals and plastics yet, but it might be slowly but surely getting on with the times. The Vivo V40, for example, doesn’t ship with a charger, helping decrease the potential e-waste from owning multiple chargers that do the same thing. Yes, you might have to buy a compatible charger if you still don’t have one, but that’s an investment that you will be able to use for other devices as well.

Perhaps the bigger step forward is taking this mid-range V series phone’s durability to the next level. From a measly IP54, the Vivo V40 now boasts an IP68 rating, putting it on the same level as more expensive flagship smartphones. What this means is that your phone won’t die on you so easily, prolonging its longevity and delaying its inevitable fate in the trash heap or recycling plant.

Value

To be painfully blunt, the Vivo V40 doesn’t exactly have a standout feature. Yes, the 50MP ZEISS cameras perform well, but other mid-range phones can match its output and even have a telephoto shooter in the gang. Its hardware isn’t exactly fresh or notable, but it does get the job done. The slim and sleek design is definitely eye-catching, but they always say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Instead, it’s actually the sum of its parts that give the Vivo V40 its value. It’s a solid performer with dependable cameras wrapped in a premium-looking design, delivering long battery life and durability on par with high-end rivals. And when you slap on the $430 price tag, you basically get a mobile partner that you can rely on, as long as you don’t make too many demands.

Verdict

It is getting harder to stand out in a very crowded smartphone market, and some vendors have started making gimmicks, adopting exaggerated designs, or adding over-the-top features just to differentiate themselves. Sometimes it works, but most of the time you end up with an outlandish design that costs more than it’s worth. In contrast, the Vivo V40 opts for a simple yet solid design, delivering a well-rounded experience with a camera system that you can be proud of and a large battery that won’t let you down.

The post Vivo V40 Review: Keeping Things Simple and Sweet first appeared on Yanko Design.

Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL Released with AI-Driven Features and Superior Display Unveiled

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Google has unveiled the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, highlighting advanced AI capabilities, cutting-edge camera systems, and vibrant displays. Powered by the Tensor G4 chip, these devices offer improved performance and functionality. Built with durability and sustainability in mind, they feature recycled materials and plastic-free packaging.

Designer: Google

The Pixel 9 series is powered by the new Tensor G4 chip, which brings advanced AI capabilities to the forefront. With Gemini Nano’s Multimodality, the phones can effortlessly understand text, images, and audio, providing a more seamless AI experience. One of the standout features is Gemini Live, which lets you have natural, flowing conversations with your phone or Pixel Buds, perfect for planning events or brainstorming ideas. Plus, handy tools like Pixel Screenshots help you keep track of important information, and the improved Pixel Weather app delivers accurate, AI-powered weather updates to help you plan your day.

Design and Display

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL feature a sleek, sculpted design with the iconic camera bar taking center stage. Both phones are crafted with a silky matte glass back and polished metal sides, offering a premium feel. The Pixel 9 Pro, with its 6.3-inch Super Actua display, measures 6 inches in height (152.4 mm), 2.8 inches in width (71.12 mm), and 0.3 inches in thickness (7.62 mm), and weighs 7 ounces (198.4 grams). It’s compact yet powerful. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a larger 6.8-inch Super Actua display, measuring 6.4 inches in height (162.56 mm), 3 inches in width (76.2 mm), and 0.3 inches in thickness (7.62 mm), with a weight of 7.8 ounces (221.1 grams), providing a bigger screen for those who prefer more display real estate.

The displays are some of the brightest and most vivid in their class. The Pixel 9 Pro boasts a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 1280 x 2856 pixels and 495 PPI, capable of reaching up to 2000 nits in HDR and 3000 nits peak brightness. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features a 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels and 486 PPI, offering the same brightness capabilities. Both displays support a smooth refresh rate of 1-120Hz and feature Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced durability.

Performance and Battery

The Google Tensor G4 chip powers both models, which were developed in collaboration with Google DeepMind. This processor is optimized for running advanced AI models, enabling faster app launches, seamless browsing, and enhanced AI-driven features. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL come with 16 GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 128 GB to 1 TB, ensuring ample space for all your needs.

Battery life is robust. The Pixel 9 Pro houses a typical 4700 mAh battery, providing over 24 hours of usage and up to 100 hours with Extreme Battery Saver mode. The Pixel 9 Pro XL, with its larger 5060 mAh battery, offers similar endurance. Both models support fast charging, achieving up to 55% and 70% charge, respectively, in about 30 minutes using the Google 45W USB-C charger, sold separately. Wireless charging and Battery Share features add further convenience.

Camera Capabilities

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL share a pro triple rear camera system that sets a new standard for smartphone photography. The setup includes a 50 MP wide camera with an ƒ/1.68 aperture, a 48 MP ultrawide camera with Macro Focus, and a 48 MP telephoto lens offering 5x optical zoom and up to 30x Super Res Zoom. These cameras are equipped with advanced features like optical and electronic image stabilization, a multi-zone LDAF sensor, and a spectral and flicker sensor to ensure crisp and clear images in any condition.

Cameras: 50 MP wide with ƒ/1.68 aperture, a 48 MP ultrawide with Macro Focus, and a 48 MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom and up to 30x Super Res Zoom

The front camera is a 42 MP Dual PD selfie camera with an ƒ/2.2 aperture and a 103-degree ultrawide field of view, designed for sharper and brighter selfies, even in low light.

Video capabilities are equally impressive, with the rear camera capable of 8K video recording at 30 FPS, powered by Video Boost, and 4K video recording at up to 60 FPS. The front camera supports 4K video at 30/60 FPS. Features like Night Sight Video, Super Res Zoom Video, and various stabilization options ensure high-quality video capture.

Pixel Studio is a unique feature that allows users to create images from scratch on their phone, powered by a diffusion model and the Imagen 3 text-to-image model. The camera system includes advanced features like Add Me, which ensures no one is left out of group photos, and Magic Editor’s Reimagine and Auto Frame tools for enhanced editing capabilities.

Comparison with Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 Pro XL

The improvements are clear when comparing the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL to the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 Pro XL. The Pixel 9 series offers a brighter and more vibrant display, enhanced by Super Actua technology, with significant camera resolution and feature upgrades. The new Tensor G4 chip provides faster and more efficient processing compared to the previous generation Tensor G3 chip.

In terms of design, the Pixel 9 series adopts a more refined and durable build, featuring Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and increased use of recycled materials. The battery life has also seen improvements, offering longer usage times with faster charging capabilities.

Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL present a significant step forward, offering users a powerful, feature-rich smartphone experience. These enhancements make the new Pixel 9 series a compelling choice for those seeking cutting-edge technology with a focus on sustainability and performance. With prices starting at $999 for the Pixel 9 Pro and $1,099 for the Pixel 9 Pro XL, both models provide a range of options to suit different preferences and needs.

The post Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL Released with AI-Driven Features and Superior Display Unveiled first appeared on Yanko Design.

nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version Review: A True Camera in Your Pocket

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PROS:


  • Distinctive, quirky design

  • True fullscreen design with invisible under-display camera

  • Unbeatable price tag for performance and battery size

  • Outstanding camera output

CONS:


  • Creamy selfies

  • Bulky and hefty chassis

  • No wireless charging

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version will delight smartphone shutterbugs with a powerful smartphone with a design that clearly marks its photography lineage.

It’s pretty obvious by now, but it probably still bears noting. Cameras have become one of the most important factors people consider when buying a smartphone. Even those who primarily use a phone for social media want great cameras that can show off their attempts at becoming Insta-famous. But more seasoned photographers look for things that go beyond things like AI retouching or dramatic filters, details that are often lost on most users. Back in late 2023, nubia launched the Z60 Ultra to scratch a very specific mobile photography itch, and less than a year later, it is launching a slightly beefed-up variant with an odd name, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version. Can this model, based on a late 2023 smartphone, keep up with the latest roster of flagships, or has it fallen by the wayside? We put this quirky-looking phone through the wringer to bring you that answer.

Designer: nubia

Aesthetics

We’ve seen plenty of phone designs over the years, and some have left us scratching our heads. Some have, in an effort to look distinctive and unique, adopted designs that leave a lasting impression in a rather unfavorable way. Fortunately, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version isn’t of that variety, and while it might look odd when viewed from its back, it has enough playfulness, charm, and balance that actually makes the composition look interesting.

The phone is a very blocky device that is almost like a throwback to the early days of the Sony Xperia. Flat edges and sharp corners are making a comeback anyway, so the nubia Z60 Ultra isn’t exactly an outlier. It is, however, chunkier and boxier than today’s phones, which does have usability consequences that we’ll get to in a bit. It gives the phone a handsome and sharp appearance, but it’s also an acquired taste.

The most notable aspect of its design, however, is the three cameras on its back. Where most manufacturers do their best to lump the cameras together, nubia actually gives each of them their own distinct design. The result? It’s almost as if each of the three cameras represents a different professional camera design, from DSLRs to point-and-shoot cameras. It’s like the whole ensemble, which takes up a good third of the phone’s back, is a wall that pays homage to the camera industry’s greatest designs, perhaps also symbolizing its aspiration to be part of that set.

The Leading Version comes in only two color options, each with its own distinct design. The Black model looks like it has a ribbed surface, but it’s purely an optical illusion. The back is still glass, just like on our Silver review unit which gives the impression of liquid silver rippling and swirling underneath. It effectively hides fingerprint smudges, though the smooth surface of the glass means very few leave their mark anyway.

We usually leave notes about the display in the hardware section of our reviews, but this screen is different. With an under-display camera, it delivers a true edge-to-edge full-screen visual that blows the mind. The bezels are thin enough to be negligible and the area that hides the camera on its forehead is nowhere to be seen. Because of its very boxy and flat design, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Edition almost looks like a miniature flat-screen TV, and it definitely looks great at showing videos, pictures, and games.

Ergonomics

The nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Edition is a chunky box of metal and glass, and there’s no getting around that fact. It does pack quite a lot of hardware, including one of the largest battery capacities for a smartphone, but that doesn’t come without its costs. At 8.8mm thick and weighing 246g, it is definitely one of the heftiest and bulkiest handsets in recent years. To some extent, that might not be that big of an issue for its intended audience of mobile photographers who won’t be holding the phone up in the same position for long periods of time, at least not without a tripod or a gimbal.

It does have a few things that help improve its usability, though. The fingerprint scanner underneath the screen is placed a little bit higher where your thumb would naturally rest so you avoid having to readjust your grip and precariously hold it near the bottom edge. The power button and the action toggle also have textured surfaces that make them easier to feel and use without having to look at their location. All in all, the Z60 Ultra Leading Version isn’t the most comfortable thing to hold for a long time, but it’s not without its merits as well.

Performance

The phone’s odd name actually comes from the only real difference it has from the original nubia Z60 Ultra. That’s the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version, an overclocked variant of the flagship chip that everyone else is using. In a way, this is nubia’s response to Samsung’s own “for Galaxy” variant, which makes the same proposition. In other words, it takes an already powerful chipset and dials it up to 11, giving most tasks a boost, especially gaming.

It’s no wonder then that the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version would have some impressive numbers in benchmark tests, sometimes even scoring the highest. It can handle any task you through at it with aplomb, making short work of mobile games. That also means it won’t even break a sweat when handling image and video processing in real-time. However, your hands might sweat a bit as the phone did get a little too warm with graphics-intensive tasks like gaming.

One of the biggest reasons for the Z60 Ultra’s heft is also one of its biggest strengths, its 6,000 mAh battery. That is definitely one of the largest we’ve seen of late, discounting the 7-inch “phablets” of old. The long battery life will be critical for photographers who don’t want to miss a moment just because their battery died. The 80W charging speed also means you’ll only be away from the action for as long as 40 or so minutes, presuming you didn’t bring a power bank with you. Unfortunately, the phone doesn’t have wireless charging capabilities, which should already be a staple for an “ultra” phone like this.

Despite its Leading Version chip, the real centerpiece of the Z60 Ultra is its camera system, led by a 50MP Sony IMX906 1/1.56-inch sensor with OIS. That might not actually be that uncommon, but its most distinctive feature is the 35mm equivalent focal length. It’s a rare trait in smartphone cameras but is one of the most favored in traditional photography. In a way, nubia is positioning the phone as a camera lover’s choice, allowing budding photographers to level up their craft to more professional standards.

It doesn’t stop there either, because nubia pulls off something that still very few manufacturers dare to do: high-quality cameras all around. The ultra-wide shooter with an 18mm focal length carries a large 50MP 1/1.55-inch sensor with OIS, while the 80mm periscope telephoto gets an equally impressive 64MP sensor with 3.3x zoom, also with OIS. Yes, all three have optical image stabilization, and all three are capable of 4K video recording, though only the main camera can do 8K.

Suffice it to say, the images and videos that these cameras deliver are clear, sharp, vibrant, and detailed, no matter the lighting situation. There are a few hiccups here and there, but the overall performance is quite impressive. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said of the 12MP front-facing under-display camera, which unsurprisingly comes out with pasty and washed-out images. Despite the advancements nubia achieved in making the camera invisible, it still needs work on matching the quality of regular “notch” cameras.

Sustainability

When talking about smartphone makers that have strong or concrete sustainability endeavors, nubia is often left unmentioned. It’s not an old player in this market, nor is it a small one, so it’s rather disappointing not to see more action coming from it on this front. Even the use of sustainable materials for the back cover isn’t one of its strong points, but we’re hoping the brand takes a turn for the better in the years ahead.

The nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version is at least IP68-rated, which speaks well for its survivability and longevity. The same can’t be said for nubia’s guaranteed software support, though, which is just three years. That’s just one year over the old two-year standard, one that is becoming a liability to the brand rather than an asset.

Value

If it wasn’t clear yet, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version is a premium flagship with a processor that runs circles around its rivals and a camera system designed to appeal to photographers at heart. And yet for all that it offers, it only asks for $649 for 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Yes, that’s $50 more than the starting price for the non-Leading Z60 Ultra, and some might question if the souped-up Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is actually worth that much. In the grand scheme of things, however, it’s still a very accessible price tag, especially when it offers just as much or even more than $1,000 devices.

Unfortunately, it won’t be easy to get your hands on one, because nubia’s global distribution channels aren’t that many. And even if you manage to import one, you still have to worry about carrier network support. There’s also that nagging question about the $50 increase for a Leading Version chip, which, truth be told, isn’t exactly a mind-blowing difference overall. That said, if you’re a mobile photographer that has access to nubia’s products and have the extra $50 to spare, you should definitely have this in your crosshair.

Verdict

It’s extremely tricky to balance power and design in smartphones because of the limited space you’re allowed. You can’t have a super-slim device and expect to have a large battery and powerful cameras at the same time. nubia’s solution is bold and creative: why bother with those limitations at all? Yes, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Edition is thick and heavy, but it still manages to balance performance and a distinctive design. It’s a smartphone that is unabashedly walking in the footsteps of traditional cameras, and it definitely has the chops to prove it.

The post nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version Review: A True Camera in Your Pocket first appeared on Yanko Design.

Vivo V40 Pro Review: Prime Mobile Photography Arrives in a Sleek Package

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PROS:


  • Elegant and aesthetic design

  • Powerful quad 50MP camera system

  • Large 5,500mAh battery despite thin profile

  • IP68 rating

CONS:


  • No wireless charging

  • Telephoto camera only supports 2x optical zoom

  • Limited global availability

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Vivo V40 Pro builds on the brand's outstanding photography performance to deliver an even more powerful experience in a stylish design.

Cameras have become one of if not the most important aspects of a smartphone these days. Of course, the display is functionally the most critical component, but other than being large and crisp, people tend to gravitate to the best smartphone camera their money can buy. Unfortunately, the best ones are often reserved for the most expensive handsets as well, leaving the majority of consumers, especially the younger generation, dreaming of better days. Vivo’s V series of smartphones has always aimed to make smartphone photography more accessible, and last year’s Vivo V30 Pro definitely put more expensive devices on notice. Can the Vivo V40 Pro top that or has the brand already reached its peak? We take Vivo’s latest and greatest V series phone for a spin to find out.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

Right off the bat, we can already say that Vivo has outdone itself with the design of the Vivo V40 Pro. Last year’s flagship was already a looker, but it suddenly feels a bit lacking compared to its younger sibling. You still have a sleek appearance, smooth curves, and a thin profile, but the real winner here is the camera design. That Vivo was able to fit three 50MP cameras in such a compact space is already a marvel, but the way it managed to make the design look appealing is a rare feat these days.

Vivo calls it a “Gemini Ring Design,” which is a fancy term for what looks like a curvy keyhole. Two of the three cameras are enclosed in a circle that sits on top of a pill-shaped elevation. Inside that is another oblong enclosure housing the third camera and the Aura Ring flash. There is a subtle beauty to the play of balance and asymmetry in this design, and it definitely gives the Vivo V40 Pro a unique visual character.

The company didn’t pull punches in the different colors and materials available for both the Vivo V40 and the V40 Pro, and all of them are beautiful in their own way. The Sunglow Peach colorway with its warm hues and dynamic magnetic ink is quite an eye-catcher, and our review unit’s Moonlight White with its pale blue streaks has a soothing and calming effect. Other than the camera bump and the small vivo branding at the bottom, there are no distractions on the back of the phone, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of these designs.

At only 7.58mm, the Vivo V40 Pro is already thin, and the curved edges of both the screen and the back panel make it look even thinner. This could be a divisive decision in 2024, though, with many seeing curved edges as a thing of the past. It definitely still has appeal and it perfectly matches the smoothness of the rest of the phone.

Ergonomics

The Vivo V40 Pro is not a small phone by any means so that thin profile helps offset the size of the device. It’s incredibly light as well at only 192g, especially considering what it packs inside, like a very generous battery. All in all, it’s difficult to hold it up for long periods of time, though the glass material on its back could prove to be slippery for some hands.

The debate around flat versus curved edges continues here as well. With part of the screen curving off to the sides, there’s always the possibility of accidental touches in those areas. There isn’t much surface area or sharp corners for your hand to grip either, and you might find yourself straining a bit just to hold the phone tight. It’s partly personal preference and partly the shape of your hand, but thankfully Vivo ships a protective case with the phone just in case.

Performance

It might not be part of Vivo’s top-tier X series, but the Vivo V40 Pro definitely packs quite a punch, starting with the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+, the chipmaker’s flagship silicon. It’s paired with up to 12GB of RAM, as was the case in our review unit, which can be boosted with another 12GB. That said, it takes some of that from the 512GB internal storage, which isn’t expandable like many phones these days. All in all, the Vivo V40 Pro performs like a champ for any use case, whether it’s social media, watching videos, or playing games. The latter is helped by an Ultra-Large VC Cooling System that keeps the phone running at a stable pace without throttling.

More impressive, however, is the 5,500mAh battery the phone crams inside its thin and light body. It’s definitely one of the largest capacities available in a phone that’s barely 7.6mm thick, allowing it to easily support all your shutterbug adventures. With an 80W charging speed, you can quickly top up to full in around 30 minutes, at least with the right charging brick. Unfortunately, Vivo hasn’t yet decided to put wireless charging on its V series phones, but maybe that will change next year.

The real stars of the show, however, are the cameras, all of them with 50MP sensors. Yes, that includes the selfie camera with a Samsung ISOCELL JN1 sensor and a wide 92-degree field of view for those “wefies” or “groufies.” If that sounds familiar, then you might have heard of the Vivo V30 Pro last year. In fact, in almost all but one case, it’s nearly the exact same set of 50MP cameras, like the 50MP Sony IMX816 telephoto shooter and the 50MP Samsung JN1 119-degree ultra-wide camera.

What’s different this year is the new 50MP Sony IMX921 with a larger 1/1.56-inch sensor. That means it is able to take in more light information even in darker environments, improving its overall quality. In fact, the entire ensemble is actually commendable in their output, delivering super images bolstered by AI and computational photography. Of course, these cameras have optics tuned by ZEISS, so there’s little surprise there. And one can’t forget Vivo’s signature Aura Light that takes the regular flash and turns it into a mini ring light for softer and more natural lighting. Its most recent incarnation includes Electronic Control Technology that lets you adjust the brightness of the light depending on the distance of the subject.

In essence, the Vivo V40 Pro builds on the success of its predecessor and adds some extra value with upgraded specs and improved software. Unfortunately, it also carries over the flaws, most notably the short optical zoom range of the telephoto camera. It only goes as far as 2x zoom, but Vivo is heavily advertising what it calls “50x ZEISS Ultra HD Zoom,” which is a mouthful that really means software-assisted digital zoom.

Sustainability

Just like the Vivo V30 Pro last year, the brand is sadly silent on any of its efforts in using even a fraction of sustainable materials for this year’s V series flagship. It also hasn’t stopped shipping chargers in its boxes, which is unsurprising since it wants to make sure that its phones use the right 80W charger for the fastest speed they can support. We’re still holding out hope that Vivo will take the lead in this area soon.

That said, it does have some good news when it comes to keeping the Vivo V40 Pro away from the trash for as long as possible. It’s the first in the V series to reach an IP68 rating, ensuring that it’s protected from dust and water which can mean the end for many smartphones. It also advertises a “50-Month Smooth Experience” guarantee that basically says the phone can run for over four years without losing its fluidity and performance. Unfortunately, it doesn’t translate to having four years of updates, and Vivo has made no promises on that matter.

Value

It’s perfectly clear from our time with the Vivo V40 Pro that it delivers everything it promises on paper. The Quad 50MP Camera System it carries over from last year continues the tradition of excellent mobile photography, but this time with a larger 5,500mAh battery that better supports all those photo and video content creation. Even better, the phone comes in a sleek, slim, and light design that makes you feel like you’re holding an art object rather than a cold piece of technology.

In other words, the Vivo V40 Pro would have been perfect if not for the fact that some people might not even be able to get their hands on it. The $560 price tag it carries (converted from Indian figures) isn’t that heavy, but global availability is still undisclosed at the moment. Hopefully, it will fare better than the Vivo V30 Pro which didn’t get a wider distribution that would have spread the word of its amazing camera chops.

Verdict

Smartphones are getting more powerful and so are their cameras. But with this increase in technical performance, designers are often forced to make many compromises to fit all of them inside a product that should still fit our pockets. In that regard, the Vivo V40 Pro is quite a feat, cramming not only four 50MP cameras but a large 5,500mAh battery inside a body that’s as thin and as light as it can be. It’s a beautiful phone with impressive performance and an accessible price point, and it deserves to be made available to more markets this time.

The post Vivo V40 Pro Review: Prime Mobile Photography Arrives in a Sleek Package first appeared on Yanko Design.