Motorola has announced two new budget phones coming to European markets: the Moto G30 and the Moto G10, both starting well under €200. The higher-specced G30 includes a fast 90Hz refresh rate screen and a 5,000mAh battery with 15W fast charging, two features not commonly seen at this price.
The G30’s 6.5-inch display is unfortunately just 720p. Other specs look healthier, though, like IP52 dust and splash resistance, 6GB of RAM, and 128GB of built-in storage that is expandable via microSD. The phone includes a 64-megapixel main camera that produces 16-megapixel images, plus an 8-megapixel ultrawide, 2-megapixel macro camera, and 2-megapixel depth sensor, with a 13-megapixel selfie camera around front. It’s equipped with a Snapdragon 662 chipset, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and will ship with Android 11. It costs €179.
The Motorola Moto G10 is a little cheaper with a less robust processor.Image: Motorola
The Moto G10 is a little less interesting, with a less powerful Snapdragon 460 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 6.5-inch 720p screen with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. It gets a lower-res 48-megapixel main camera and 8-megapixel selfie cam. Like the G30, it contains a 5,000mAh battery, although it charges a little more slowly at 10W. A version sold in India will include a bigger 6,000mAh battery with 15W charging. The European variant is priced at €149.
Fast refresh rate screens make scrolling and animations appear smoother, and they’re quite common now on flagship phones. It’s not surprising that we’re starting to see the technology pop up in the budget class — the $300 OnePlus Nord N10 5G has a 90Hz screen and the upcoming Galaxy A52 and A72 are rumored to include one, too — but the G30 is one of the least expensive phones we’ve seen to offer one. It seems likely that we’re well on our way to seeing 90Hz screens becoming the new normal at every price point.
The Moto G30 and G10 are currently listed for sale on Motorola’s UK and German sites and will come to other European markets this spring.
Samsung has a pair of new laptops in development — the Galaxy Book Pro and Galaxy Book Pro 360 — which include OLED displays and will be compatible with the company’s S Pen stylus, SamMobile reports. The Galaxy Book Pro 360 is said to also be available with 5G connectivity. The laptops were first revealed in a Bluetooth certification filing that surfaced last month.
SamMobile’s report doesn’t go into details about the specs of the OLED displays such as what their resolution or refresh rates might be. However, given the laptops will reportedly be available with 13.3-inch and 15.6-inch screens, it seems unlikely that they’ll use the 14-inch 90Hz OLED displays that Samsung Display said it would be mass manufacturing starting next month.
These wouldn’t be the first of Samsung’s laptops to support the S Pen (last year’s Galaxy Book Flex 5G, the company’s first 5G laptop, had one built in for example), but it comes after the company announced a new pair of S Pen styluses alongside the Galaxy S21 Ultra. There’s a standard S Pen that’s sold separately from the phone, and later this year it’ll be joined by the S Pen Pro, an upgraded version that adds Bluetooth and air gesture support. Earlier this year Samsung said it’s planning to bring S Pen support to “additional device categories.”
Beyond their screens and S Pen support, the new Windows laptops are rumored to be powered by Intel Core i5 and i7 CPUs. The Galaxy Pro 360 is thought to be a convertible 2-in-1 laptop, with a 360-hinge to allow its screen to be flipped around and used like a tablet.
If the reports about the upcoming devices are accurate, they’d join a host of other laptops announced by Samsung recently. These include the Galaxy Chromebook 2, an Intel-powered Chromebook with a QLED display (essentially an LCD display that uses Samsung’s quantum-dot technology) and stylus support, announced earlier this year.
Google’s Pixel handsets are some of the best smartphones money can buy. And unlike most of their rivals, they don’t come with crazy price tags. The most recent in the range, the Pixel 5, costs just £599 ($699, AU$999), which is very good value for such a well-specced handset.
The Pixel 5 launched at the end of last year, but already rumours are rumbling of a successor. It leaked recently that Google plans to launch a foldable phone at some point in the near future – could that be the Pixel 6? Or a separate device altogether?
Below, we’ll attempt to answer that as well as many other questions about the Pixel 6, such as what kind of specs it’ll have, how much it’ll cost and when it will launch. So let’s dive in and see what Google has in store.
Google Pixel 6: release date and price
It’s early days for the Pixel 6 – the Pixel 5 is only four months old, so we’re not expecting an official announcement until much later in the year. The firm always announces its Pixel phones in late September or early October, and we would expect this year to be no different. A launch then makes sense, allowing the phone to land on shop shelves just in time for the busy Christmas period.
Don’t believe us? Just look at the dates of Google’s past Pixel announcements.
Google Pixel: 4th October 2016
Google Pixel 2: 4th October 2017
Google Pixel 3: 9th October 2018
Google Pixel 4: 15th October 2019
Google Pixel 5: 30th September 2020
So the smart money is on a launch event taking place at the end of September or beginning of October.
The price is harder to pinpoint. Google positioned the Pixel 5 as a much more affordable handset, giving it a price tag of just £599 ($699, AU$999). A similar pricing strategy was also adopted by Samsung for the Galaxy S21, which costs £769 ($799, AU$1249). So can we expect the Pixel 6 to follow suit?
Maybe, but it’s far from a dead cert. Google usually sells a bigger, higher-specced and more expensive variant of its Pixel phones. The most recent, the Pixel 4XL, costs £829 ($899, AU$1280). But the Pixel 5 was the first to not to be joined by an XL version. Google could keep to this strategy, and re-position the Pixel range as solely a mid-range proposition. Or it could enlarge the size of the standard Pixel and up the price. Or, of course, it could launch a Pixel 6 XL and keep the standard Pixel 6 as more affordable.
It all depends on what else Google has planned for this year. If it does launch a foldable phone – said to be codenamed “Passport” – it will undoubtedly have a higher price tag, which would legitimise keeping the Pixel 6 as a mid-range affair. But if the folding phone is pushed back to 2022 or beyond, Google could well spec out the next Pixel and charge more for it.
It also depends on Google’s strategy for pricing the Pixel 5 lower in the first place. Did it foresee the economic fallout from the global pandemic and reckon that people would be less willing (or less able) to spend big on a smartphone? Or did it admit to itself that it couldn’t challenge Apple and Samsung’s dominance in the high end and decide to make a play for the middle market instead? How it positions the Pixel 6 might reveal a lot about its market strategy for the future.
Google Pixel 6: specs
(Image credit: Google)
The specs are a little tricky to call at this early stage, mainly because no leaks have revealed specs for the handset yet. But using our industry knowledge we can make some educated guesses.
For starters, Qualcomm recently launched its latest chipset, the Snapdragon 888. If Google wants to trick out the Pixel 6 with the best possible performance, it’ll likely opt for Qulcomm’s latest. But if it wants to keep it a mid-range device, it might use a less powerful processor, something like the successor to the 765G. This hasn’t actually been announced yet, but is widely expected to be called the 775G.
There’s also a rumour that Google is partnering with Samsung to develop its own range of chips. So there is a chance that the Pixel 6 could be powered by the first ever Google-made mobile chipset.
Even if Google does go the lower-specced route, we can still expect the handset to be 5G. The technology is becoming more and more common, and if Google hopes to convince people to buy and use its phone for years to come, 5G will be a necessity, even for a (relatively) more affordable handset.
Next up is the screen. High refresh rate displays are becoming all the rage with Android phones – and not just at the high end of the market. Indeed, Samsung is putting the tech into its mid-range phones. So we can probably expect the Pixel 6 to have either a 90Hz or 120Hz panel.
These refresh rates are better for rendering fast-moving content such as sports and games, meaning less blur.
At the moment, there are precious few leaks to go on in terms of hard specs, but we’re currently expecting the Pixel 6 to have same 6-inch screen size as the Pixel 5, with the same resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels.
Battery-wise, we’re expecting at least 4000mAh, matching the Pixel 5, and possibly more if Google opts for a bigger screen or more power-hungry processor.
Google Pixel 6: cameras
(Image credit: Patently Apple)
The cameras have always been one of the Pixel range’s highlights. Indeed, we called the Pixel 5’s snapper a “class-leading camera”. So what can we expect from the Pixel 6?
We could see the return of the telephoto lens previously featured in the Pixel 4. This was dropped for the Pixel 5, but could make a welcome comeback, either as a replacement to the ultra wide lens, or as a third camera in the rear array.
We could also see some exciting tech in the front-facing camera. Namely, it could be built under the screen itself. This isn’t just hearsay – Google has patented the tech (via Patently Apple). An under-screen camera would mean no unsightly notch or ‘pinhole’ obscuring the display. Not only would the handset look much sleeker, it would also enhance our enjoyment of films, TV shows and games.
Google wouldn’t be the first with this tech – it’s already been seen in the ZTE Axon 20 5G. And just because Google has patented it, that doesn’t mean it will implement it in the Pixel 6. But it certainly makes it a possibility…
Google Pixel 6: design
Google couldn’t be accused of being stuck in its ways when it comes to its phone designs. The Pixel 5 features an aluminium body covered by a thin skin of bio-resin plastic to enable wireless charging. It won plaudits for its simple but stylish look, so we have no reason to think Google won’t stick with a similar design for the Pixel 6.
Google Pixel 6: verdict
Too much about the Pixel 6 remains unknown to make any kind of judgement right now. That’s not exactly surprising, seeing as we’re a good eight months away from its launch. But if Google’s previous efforts are anything to go by, and judging by the prevailing standards of the current Android competition, it will definitely be one to watch in the run-up to its launch this autumn.
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In 2021, Samsung will likely introduce a Galaxy Note Fan Edition. LetsGoDigital has designed a snow-white Galaxy Note 21 FE especially for Valentine’s Day.
We are already half-through February. The first high-end Samsung smartphones from 2021 went on sale last month, the Galaxy S21 series. Traditionally, it is now a matter of waiting till August before Samsung will introduce a new series of high-end models that will be placed within the Galaxy Note line-up. This year it is exactly 10 years ago that Samsung launched the Note series, but is there celebration?
Rumors have been circulating for years that Samsung wants to end the Note series. These phone models have increasingly come to resemble the other high-end models of the brand; the S-series. There was a time that the Galaxy Note was characterized by the largest screen, largest battery and of course the iconic S Pen.
But since Samsung introduced an Ultra model within the S series, all these unique features are no longer predestined for the Note series. For example, the S20 Ultra has a larger screen and a larger battery than the Note 20 Ultra. With the recently introduced S21 Ultra, Samsung went even a step further by making this device compatible with the famous S Pen. Now that the S Pen has entered the S series, the distinctive character of the Samsung Note model series has become nil.
Will there be a new Samsung Galaxy Note in 2021?
Samsung themselves completely deny that the Galaxy Note series has been discontinued. In December 2020, a Samsung official told Korean News Agency Yonhap, “We are preparing for a Galaxy Note series release for next year.” Afterwards, other publishers have also checked with Samsung. The Korean manufacturer is still be committed to the Note line-up, was the general answer.
As far as we are concerned, it is therefore inconceivable that Samsung will say goodbye to the famous Note line-up without releasing at least one last model. Perhaps this model will become a Fan Edition, made for the fans. Just like Samsung released a Galaxy S20 FE (Fan Edition) in September last year. This is the cheapest S-series model, a kind of Lite variant that offers a lot of value for money.
To give you a taste of how such a Note might look like, Italian graphic designer Giuseppe Spinelli, aka Snoreyn, has designed a phenomenal set of product images of a beautiful Samsung Galaxy Note 21 FE Phantom White edition. Because today is February 14, the renders are made in the spirit of Valentine’s Day.
The sales package is also slimmer compared to last year, because there is a good chance that no charger and no earplugs will be included. Samsung has already started this new trend with the introduction of the Galaxy S21 series. The pre-order sales of the three S-series models were significantly better than last year, so there seems to be little reason for Samsung to reconsider this decision.
Samsung Note 21 FE for the fans
Samsung has already developed a Fan Edition of the Note before. In 2017, the company released a Samsung Galaxy Note FE. It was a revised version of the recalled Note 7. A kind of refurbished copy, which was put on the market by Samsung at a greatly reduced price. This model was only released in South Korea.
In November last year, the Brazilian Samsung site made mention of a “Galaxy Note 20 FE”. This smartphone model was said to have a 6.5-inch screen. However, it is not inconceivable that this was a typo, as the listing was on the “Galaxy S20 FE” page. This model also has a 6.5 ”display. Display analyst Ross Young also reported a possible Note 20 FE on Twitter. Nevertheless, display analyst Ross Young also reported a possible Note 20 FE on Twitter last month.
Should Samsung indeed decide to develop a new Galaxy Note for the fans, it will likely be a relatively inexpensive model with high-end features. Logically, Samsung will choose to implement a flat display with a Full HD+ resolution, as is also the case with the Note 20 and S21. The hype about curved displays is over, if it is up to Samsung.
Although Chinese manufacturers are increasingly implementing curved screens – think, for example, of the quad-curved display of the Xiaomi Mi 11 – Samsung is actually going back to the basics. Many users find a flat display easier to operate than a rounded screen. Moreover, it is cheaper to produce, which in turn is beneficial for the selling price.
In addition, Samsung will probably opt for a plastic back. That sounds cheap, but it is also more durable and less fingerprint sensitive than glass. Moreover, many use a phone case, so you never actually see the back of your phone.
In addition, we hope that the new Note 21 FE will adopt the latest design features of the S21. We are of course talking about the renewed camera layout, with the camera module being merged with the frame on the side and top of the device.
Samsung S Pen for the Galaxy Note 21 Fan Edition
Samsung has never introduced a Note smartphone without a stylus pen. So you can assume that this stylus will be included again this year. Should a Galaxy Note 21 FE be introduced, it is likely that this model will also have a stylus compartment to store the stylus. This is not the case with the S21 Ultra, the S Pen is optional there. In addition, Samsung has designed covers with a stylus storage compartment.
Also in terms of functions there are now several S Pens in circulation. The Note 20 Ultra comes with an S Pen with an extra low latency of 9mm, making it feel like you’re writing with a regular pen. The stylus of the standard Note 20 has a slightly longer delay of about 26mm. This pen may be included with the Note 21 FE.
In any case, it seems out of the question that the new Note comes with the S Pen Pro. The Pro variant was announced for the S21 Ultra, but this stylus is significantly longer as the stylus is not stored in the phone itself. Due to this different design it is not logical that Samsung would include this pen with a possible Note 21 Fan Edition. The S Pen Pro does not only differ in terms of design, the Bluetooth functionality is also lacking with this stylus pen, meaning that the Remote functions are not accessible.
Logically, Samsung will also provide the device with the latest Android software. The S21 series, for example, runs on the Android 11 operating system combined with the One UI 3.1 user interface. The hardware may not be updated to keep the Note 21 FE affordable. After all, the 7nm Exynos 990 / Snapdragon 865 used in the Note 20 is also a very powerful chipset.
Much is still unclear regarding the battery capacity. This might be related to the size of the display. With the 6.7 ”Note 20, Samsung opted for a 4,300 mAh battery, which offers a reasonable battery life of about 10 – 11 hours. Should Samsung equip the Note 21 FE with a 6.5 ”display, a 4,100 mAh battery should sufficient to provide a comparable battery life. However, Samsung will probably choose to build in a slightly larger battery – as was the case with the acclaimed S20 FE.
Remarkably, a 65W travel adapter from Samsung was also certified earlier this year. For the time being, it remains unknown for which phone model this extremely fast charger is intended. It could of course be intended for the new Note, although it cannot be ruled out that Samsung will provide one of the new Galaxy Z foldable smartphones with 65W fast charging compatibility, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 3. In any case, we have also included this mysterious charger in our product renders.
Price & Availability
If Samsung keeps the same schedule as in previous years, it will take about half a year before the new Note 20 FE / Note 21 FE will be announced. We are still in the dark about the price. Last year, the Note 20 was significantly cheaper than its Ultra sibling, both in terms of specs and price. The base model was marketed for € 950 (4G) / € 1,050 (5G), while the Ultra 5G model was priced at € 1,300.
If Samsung will indeed release a Fan Edition, it might become a somewhat cheaper model. All the more because the prices of the already available models have dropped considerably in the meantime. At the time of writing, you can buy the Note 20 5G for € 790.
The suggested retail price of the Samsung Note 21 FE 5G may be comparable. In the coming months, more news will undoubtedly become known about Samsung’s Note line-up for 2021.
Note to editors :The product images shown in this publication are created by in-house designer Giuseppe Spinelli (aka Snoreyn). The presented concept renders are for illustrative purposes only. The images are copyright protected. Feel free to use the photos on your own website, please be so respectful to include a source link into your publication.
If you like the look of the Samsung Galaxy S21 but think the price is a bit steep, you could be in for some good news. Samsung is reportedly working on a cheaper model of the handset, to be known as the S21 FE (Fan Edition).
That’s according to SamMobile‘s sources. Seeing as Samsung made a less expensive version of the S20 known as the S20 FE, the rumour sounds solid to us.
So what can we expect from the S21 FE? Here the sources go a bit quiet. But it’s reasonable to assume similar specs to those of the Galaxy S21. It will have 5G, plus 128GB and 256GB storage options, Android 11, and a choice of four finishes: grey/silver, pink, violet, and white. But that’s all we know for now.
Could it also come with a microSD card slot, which was missing from the S21 range? Quite possibly, according to the rumours.
And the launch date? It’s not expected until the second half of this year. The S20 FE launched last September, so chances are Samsung will stick to that release schedule.
As for the price, the S21 came in cheaper than the S20, so an even lower price tag for the S21 FE starts to look like a bargain.
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Mid-range smartphones are rarely exciting, but Samsung’s next two are the exception to that rule. They both feature screens with high refresh rates – a feature previously limited to high-end handsets.
The models in question are the Galaxy A52 (5G) and A72. According to a leak from SamMobile, the former will sport a 120Hz screen (as seen on the Galaxy S21 range), while the A72 will have a 90Hz panel. 90Hz is still no slouch – it’s higher than the 60Hz displays seen on the iPhone 12 range. The standard, non-5G version of the A52 will have a 90Hz screen too.
Obviously a 120Hz screen will require more processing power, so the 5G version of the A52 will have a Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G chip, while the 4G version will have to make do with a Snapdragon 720G.
The 5G A52’s screen will be large, too, at 6.5 inches. Other than that, it will have fairly standard specs for a mid-range phone.
Still, good news for those wanting more advanced display tech from their smartphone. Is it time for Apple to up its game for the iPhone 13?
Samsung’s new A range phones should launch next month.
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Update: Clarified specifics pertaining to the industry letter.
If you’re still disappointed at not being able to
buy a Ryzen 5000 series chip
yet, you’ve apparently got some friends in high places. President Biden is just as annoyed as you, according to a new statement from White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, and is working to bring the global semiconductor shortage to an end as quickly as possible.
The Biden administration is “currently identifying potential chokepoints in the [semiconductor] supply chain and actively working alongside key stakeholders in industry and with our trading partners to do more now,” Psaki said.
Alongside these discussions, Psaki said that Biden also plans to sign an executive order in the coming weeks that would direct a comprehensive review of supply chain issues for critical goods, including chips.
Two people familiar with the review’s specifics told Bloomberg that it will last 100 days and will be led by the National Economic Council and National Security Council. Plans are to focus on semiconductor manufacturing and advanced packaging, as well as critical minerals, medical supplies and high-capacity batteries such as those used in electric vehicles.
The American auto industry also stands to gain from a more available supply of chips as well, with the United Auto Workers union releasing its own statement saying that “we also call on the Biden administration and Congress to develop trade and policy solutions that ensure that advanced technology that has been offshored is brought back and produced by UAW workers here in the U.S.” The statement follows a January 19th letter the union sent to the Biden administration asking the President to “consider urging major silicon wafer foundries to ramp up production of automotive-grade wafers.”
As such, we can’t say how much of a role consumer electronics will play in Biden’s plans.
National security is also a concern, especially given increased trading tensions between the United States and China within the past year. While TSMC is based in Taiwan, the political situation between Taiwan and China is still fraught.
Other moves are also developing in the semiconductor industry, with a letter sent to the President earlier today that was signed by the CEOs of Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm and which urged his administration to increase government support for domestic chip production, long a challenging issue due to foreign subsidies for chip R&D and manufacturing plants. This is in itself enlightening, given that both AMD and Qualcomm currently rely on foreign partners for chip production. “Our technology leadership is at risk in the race for preeminence in the technologies of the future, including artificial intelligence, 5G/6G, and quantum computing,” the letter states.
18 other CEOs signed the letter, which pointed out that the United States’ share of chip manufacturing has fallen by 12% since 1990. The letter’s specific demands include “substantial funding for incentives for semiconductor manufacturing, in the form of grants and/or tax credits.”
While it sounds like much of the lobbying pressure facing the Biden administration is focused on bringing chip production under American companies’ purview, it’s also possible that the President’s solutions may also piggyback off the previous administration’s work with TSMC to build a factory in Arizona.
Samsung may be getting closer to refreshing two popular midrange devices: the Galaxy A52 and A72. Leaked press renders and prices have popped up over the last month, and now SamMobile is reporting that the phones will get higher refresh rate screens. This is a welcome feature that’s trickling down from much pricier flagship devices; faster refresh rates make for a much slicker experience, with smoother animations and scrolling than the typical 60Hz screen offers.
The A52 and A72 are both expected to sell in LTE and 5G versions; the LTE phones will allegedly have 90Hz displays, while the 5G versions get 120Hz panels. (SamMobile only indicates that the A52 5G will have the 120Hz screen, but it seems likely the A72 5G would, too.) A 90Hz panel isn’t unheard of in the A52’s budget / lower-midrange class — the $300 OnePlus Nord N10 5G is equipped with one — but it’s still uncommon.
SamMobile also reports a few more specs for the A52 5G: it will include a Snapdragon 750G chipset, 6.5-inch OLED screen, and a 4,500mAh battery with 25W fast charging. It’s also expected to ship with Android 11. Variants with 6GB of RAM / 128GB of storage and 8GB of RAM / 256GB of storage will likely be offered.
On the camera front, it will allegedly include a 64-megapixel main sensor with a 12-megapixel ultrawide, 5-megapixel macro, and a 5-megapixel depth-sensing camera. It’s also reported to include a 32-megapixel selfie camera. It’s expected to cost around €450 (close to $550), while the non-5G model could cost $400.
The Galaxy A51 was one of the bestselling phones worldwide in the first half of 2020, and Samsung looks keen to build on its success with attractive features like the higher refresh rate screen. We liked the A51’s high-quality screen and good build quality but found its processor to be a bit slow loading apps — something Samsung will want to rectify in this follow-up.
The A51’s 4,000mAh battery performance was also so-so. A higher refresh rate screen would likely require even more power, which may be part of the reason why this year’s model will allegedly offer a bigger battery. Capacity is only part of the equation, though, so it’s something we’ll keep an eye on when this device eventually makes its official debut.
If you’re still disappointed at not being able to buy a Ryzen 5000 series chip yet, you’ve apparently got some friends in high places. President Biden is just as annoyed as you, according to a new statement from White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, and is working to bring the global semiconductor shortage to an end as quickly as possible.
The Biden administration is “currently identifying potential chokepoints in the [semiconductor] supply chain and actively working alongside key stakeholders in industry and with our trading partners to do more now,” Psaki said.
Alongside these discussions, Psaki said that Biden also plans to sign an executive order in the coming weeks that would direct a comprehensive review of supply chain issues for critical goods, including chips.
Two people familiar with the review’s specifics told Bloomberg that it will last 100-days and will be led by the National Economic Council and National Security Council. Plans are to focus on semiconductor manufacturing and advanced packaging, as well as critical minerals, medical supplies and high-capacity batteries such as those used in electric vehicles.
This move follows
a letter
sent to the President earlier today that was signed by the CEOs of Intel, AMD and Qualcomm and which urged his administration to increase support for domestic chip production. This is in itself enlightening, given that both AMD and Qualcomm currently rely on foreign partners for chip production.
“Our technology leadership is at risk in the race for preeminence in the technologies of the future, including artificial intelligence, 5G/6G, and quantum computing,” the letter states.
18 other CEOs signed the letter as well, which pointed out that the United States’ share of chip manufacturing has fallen by 12% since 1990. The letter’s specific demands include “substantial funding for incentives for semiconductor manufacturing, in the form of grants and/or tax credits.”
Aside from the semiconductor shortage, it’s possible that trouble at TSMC is also partially behind the industry letter, as the company recently announced that it would be prioritizing the auto industry when allocating new capacity.
However, the American auto industry also stands to gain from a more available supply of chips as well, with the United Auto Workers union releasing its own statement saying that “we also call on the Biden administration and Congress to develop trade and policy solutions that ensure that advanced technology that has been offshored is brought back and produced by UAW workers here in the U.S.” The statement follows a January 19th letter the union sent to the Biden administration asking the President to “consider urging major silicon wafer foundries to ramp up production of automotive grade wafers.”
As such, we can’t say how much of a role consumer electronics will play in Biden’s plans.
National security is also a concern, especially given increased trading tensions between the United States and China within the past year. While TSMC is based in Taiwan, the political situation between Taiwan and China is still fraught.
While it sounds like much of the lobbying pressure facing the Biden administration is focused on bringing chip production under the purview of American companies, it’s also possible that the President’s solutions may also piggyback off the previous administration’s work with TSMC to build a factory in Arizona.
(Pocket-lint) – Samsung has numerous options within its smartphone portfolio, from the flagship Galaxy Z folding models to the latest Galaxy S and Galaxy Note ranges.
There’s also the sub-flagship Galaxy A range to consider, as well as the older Galaxy S and Galaxy Note models. Choosing the right Galaxy for you if it’s Samsung you are after is no easy task.
We’ve broken down the four core ranges – Galaxy S, Note, A and Z – and the devices available within each to help you choose the right Samsung device for you and your budget.
Quick Summary
• The Samsung Galaxy S range is the company’s main flagship smartphone range. Most of its models have a glass and metal waterproof design, lots of power and the best cameras.
• The Samsung Galaxy Note series is often more expensive than the S range, but it adds S Pen functionality with the stylus built into a metal and glass design. The overall look has similar traits to the Galaxy S range.
• The Samsung Galaxy A is the sub-flagship range, sitting below the S range in terms of price, but borrowing several of its design features including full displays and under-screen fingerprint sensors in some models.
• The Galaxy Z series is the Samsung’s folding smartphones, sitting at the top of the portfolio in terms of price and offering the company’s latest innovations in design.
Samsung / Pocket-lint
Samsung Galaxy S
The 2021 flagships for the Galaxy S range are the S21, S21+ and the S21 Ultra, succeeding the S20, S20+ and the S20 Ultra from 2020. There’s also the cheaper but great S20 FE to consider. In 2019, there was the Galaxy S10e, S10 and S10+, which are still available to buy. We wouldn’t recommend going further back than that because of a lack of software updates.
Samsung Galaxy S20 range compared: S20 vs S20+ vs S20 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S21
Dimensions: 151.7 x 71.2 x 7.9mm, 172g, IP68
Display: 6.2-inches, Full HD+, Infinity-O, 120Hz
Cameras: 12MP main + 12MP ultra wide + 64MP zoom; 10MP front
Storage: 128/256GB, no microSD
Battery: 4000mAh
squirrel_widget_4139178
The Samsung Galaxy S21 succeeds the S20, offering a new processor, 5G capabilites, a slight redesign, but otherwise a very similar offering to the 2020 handset. It offers a flat display instead of curved, and a drop in resolution to Full HD+.
The material finish is also plastic rather than glass, like the Galaxy S20 FE. It offers the same camera hardware as the S20 however, as well as the same battery capacity and RAM. It’s the entry point into the new Galaxy S devices.
Samsung Galaxy S21 review
Samsung Galaxy S21+
Dimensions: 161.5 x 75.6 x 7.8mm, 202g, IP68
Display: 6.7-inches, Full HD+, Infinity-O, 120Hz
Cameras: 12MP main + 12MP ultra wide + 64MP zoom; 10MP front
Storage: 128/256GB, no microSD
Battery: 4800mAh
squirrel_widget_3816733
The Samsung Galaxy S21+ offers almost identical specifications to its smaller sibling, the Galaxy S21. It is slightly larger and heavier, offering a bigger display but like the S21, it is a flat display with a Full HD+ resolution rather than curved like the S20+.
The camera hardware is the same as the Galaxy S21 and the Galaxy S20, ditching the depth sensor from the Galaxy S20+. We expect it to deliver good results and this 2021 model has a battery increase compared to its predecessor too.
Cameras: 108MP main + 12MP ultra wide + 10MP tele + 10MP tele 2; 40MP front
Storage: 128/256/512GB, no microSD
Battery: 5000mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is the top of the S21 range, offering the largest display, a glass and metal body, an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate and a sharper display than the S21 and S21+.
It also has a different camera loadout than the other two devices in the range with two telephoto lenses on board. Additionally, the S21 Ultra comes with S Pen functionality, putting it up against the Note range, even though the difference here is that the Ultra doesn’t have the S Pen included. It’s the most expensive of the S21 range however so be prepared to dig deep.
Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra review
Samsung Galaxy S20 FE
Dimensions: 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4mm, 190g, IP68
Display: 6.5-inch, Full HD+, Infinity-O, 120Hz,
Cameras: 12MP main + 12MP ultra wide + 8MP zoom; 32MP front
Storage: 128GB, microSD
Battery: 4500mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE launched after the rest of the Galaxy S20 range but it offers a lot for its price point – which is quite a bit lower than the Galaxy S20. The FE, or Fan Edition, offers a big display with a 120Hz refresh rate, along with a design that is the same as the S20 range but with a plastic body instead of glass.
It drops the screen resolution to Full HD+ like the S21 and S21+ and it has a flat display with larger bezels than the rest of the S20 range, but it offers a good camera loadout, a good battery and it’s a great price.
Samsung Galaxy S20 FE review
Samsung Galaxy S20
Dimensions: 151.7 x 69.1 x 7.9mm, 163g, IP68
Display: 6.2-inches, 3200 x 1440 (566ppi), Infinity-O, 120Hz
Cameras: 12MP main + 12MP ultra wide + 64MP zoom; 10MP front
Storage: 128GB, microSD
Battery: 4000mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy S20 is the foundation for the 2020 phones, updating the Galaxy S10, with new hardware, a new display that offers 120Hz, a bigger battery and new cameras.
The camera gets a new sensor with larger pixels and a more impressive zoom arrangement giving you up to 30X digital zoom, as well as 8K video capture. This model also comes in 4G or 5G versions. It’s more affordable than the bigger devices, but the display is smaller. Overall, it’s a good solid phone.
Samsung Galaxy S20 review
Samsung Galaxy S20+
Dimensions: 161.9, 73.7 x 7.8mm, 186g, IP68
Display: 6.7-inches, 3200 x 1440 (524ppi), Infinity-O, 120Hz
Cameras: 12MP main + 12MP ultra wide + 64MP zoom + DepthVision; 10MP front
Storage: 128/512GB, microSD
Battery: 4500mAh
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Switching things up, the S20+ is probably the sweet spot for many in the S20 series, in terms of size, but it only comes as a 5G handset in many markets, making it look relatively expensive compared to the S10+ that it replaces.
It also offers lots of power, that great display with 120Hz for those who want it, and a new camera system – the same as the Galaxy S20 and S21 but with an added depth sensor – which doesn’t appear to do much. The battery is respectable making this a good all-rounder.
Samsung Galaxy S20+ review
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra
Dimensions: 166.9 x 76.0 x 8.8mm, 220g, IP68
Display: 6.9-inches, 3200 x 1440 (509ppi), Infinity-O, 120Hz
Cameras: 108MP main + 12MP ultra wide + 48MP zoom + DepthVision; 40MP front
Storage: 128/512GB, microSD
Battery: 5000mAh
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The Galaxy S20 Ultra sets out to be the greatest of the Galaxy S20 family with big everything: big display, big battery, big camera resolutions. Just like the S21 Ultra that replaces it. That all, sadly, comes at a big price.
On the whole the S20 Ultra is a great phone, but the battery might not last as long as you expect and the cameras are a little oversold, so the 100X zoom headline doesn’t really deliver. It’s a 5G phone.
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review
Samsung Galaxy S10e
Dimensions: 142.2 x 69.9 x 7.9mm, 150g, IP68
Display: 5.8-inches, 2280 x 1080 (438ppi), flat Super AMOLED
Cameras: 16MP wide + 12MP main; 10MP front
Storage: 128GB or 256GB, microSD support up to 512GB
Battery: 3100mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy S10e was originally the cheapest of the S10 range, offering a flat display and a physical fingerprint sensor, rather than a curved screen and under-display sensor. On the back, the S10e has a dual camera instead of triple.
It misses out on a couple of the features but the S10e still offers a fresh design, as well as lovely build quality and good hardware. It’s undercut by the impressive S10 Lite however, which appears to offer more for the money.
Samsung Galaxy S10e review
Samsung Galaxy S10 Lite
Dimensions: 162.5 x 75.6 x 8.1 mm, 186g
Display: 6.7-inches, 1080 x 2400 (394ppi), Super AMOLED
Cameras: 48MP main + 12MP wide + 5MP; 32MP front
Storage: 128GB, microSD support up to 512GB
Battery: 4500mAh
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An addition to the S10 range, this handset debuted alongside the Note 10 Lite at CES 2020 in early January.
It fits into the range above the S10e. Why? It has more cameras, a larger screen and a bigger battery. It’s actually the largest of the standard S10 series, having the same screen size as the S10 5G.
It also has some other premium specs, not least the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 platform under the hood. Confusing, but given the price, very compelling.
Samsung Galaxy S10 Lite review
Samsung Galaxy S10
Dimensions: 149.9 x 70.4 x 7.8mm, 157g, IP68
Display: 6.1-inches, 3040 x 1440 (550ppi), dual-edge Super AMOLED
Cameras: 16MP + 12MP + 12MP, 10MP front
Storage: 128GB or 512GB, microSD support up to 512GB
Battery: 3400mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy S10 is a great device, featuring a lovely design and plenty of features including an in-display fingerprint sensor and reverse wireless charging.
There’s a triple camera on the rear and the 19.5:9 aspect ratio display is stunning, while the software experience is up there with the best.
Samsung Galaxy S10 review
Samsung Galaxy S10+
Dimensions: 157.6 x 74.1 x 7.8mm, 175g, IP68
Display: 6.4-inches, 3040 x 1440 (522ppi), dual-edge Super AMOLED
Cameras: 16MP + 12MP + 12MP; 10MP front
Storage: 128GB, 512GB or 1TB, microSD support up to 512GB
Battery: 4100mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy S10+ features an outstanding display, brilliant sound quality and a great software experience packed full of features.
The design is great, it has a fun wide-angle camera and it offers strengths in all areas, delivering one of the best phones of 2019.
Samsung Galaxy S10+ review
Samsung Galaxy S10 5G
Dimensions: 1162.6 x 77.1 x 7.9mm, 198g, IP68
Display: 6.7-inches, 3040 x 1440 (505ppi), dual-edge Super AMOLED
Cameras: 3D Depth + 16MP + 12MP + 12MP; 10MP front + 3D Depth Camera
Storage: 256GB or 512GB, microSD support up to 512GB
Battery: 4500mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy S10 5G follows a very similar design to the S10+ but it’s larger, has a couple of extra cameras and most importantly, it is 5G-enabled.
It’s not cheap, but it has a good design, great camera potential and if you’re after a 5G phone, it’s an option worth considering as it should be available at good prices now the S10 range has been superseded twice.
Samsung Galaxy S10 5G review
Samsung / Pocket-lint
Samsung Galaxy Note
The main models in the Galaxy Note range are the Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra (and their 5G variants), all of which launched in August 2020. Don’t ignore the Note 10 Lite, Note 10 and Note 10+ if you’re interested in the Note though.
As ever, only opt for a Note if you’re going to make use of the S Pen stylus and consider the S20 Ultra if you want S Pen compatibility but without it being built in.
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra vs Galaxy Note 20: What’s the difference?
Samsung Galaxy Note 20
Dimensions: 161.6 x 75.2 x 8.3mm, 192g (LTE), 194g (5G), IP68
Display: 6.7-inches, 2400 x 1080 (393ppi), flat Super AMOLED
Cameras: 12MP main + 12MP ultra-wide + 64MP telephoto; 10MP front
Storage: 128GB/256GB (5G), 256GB (LTE), no microSD support
Battery: 4300mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 offers a similar design to the Note 10 it succeeds, but it opts for a flat display and changes the camera housing on the rear to a more pronounced offering. There’s also a ‘glasstic’ rear instead of glass but the overall design is lovely and neat.
The camera system is the same as what you’ll find in the Galaxy S20 and S21 so it should deliver great things, and while the display sticks to a 60Hz refresh rate and there’s no microSD support again, if you’re looking for a phone with an integrated stylus then there’s little better than the note-taking potential of this phone.
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 initial review
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
Dimensions: 164.8 x 77.2 x 8.1mm, 208g, IP68
Display: 6.9-inches, 3088 x 1440 (496ppi), dual edge Super AMOLED
Cameras: 12MP main + 108MP ultra-wide + 12MP telephoto; 10MP front
Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB (5G), 256GB/512GB (LTE), microSD support
Battery: 4500mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra sits at the top of the Galaxy Note series and it offers some of the best technology Samsung has to offer. It has a similar design to the Note 10+ but changes things up in the rear camera housing as well as the camera make up. A similar offering to the S20 Ultra is on board but with a laser sensor to help with the zoom – which has dropped to 50X instead of 100X.
After nearly 10 years at the cutting edge, the Samsung Galaxy Note series is still on top of its game. Yes, it’s easy to see the Note 20 Ultra as “just another Note” – but that’s because it’s got so much right.
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra review
Samsung Galaxy Note 10
Dimensions: 151 x 71.8 x 7.9mm, 168g, IP68
Display: 6.3-inches, 2280 x 1080 (401ppi), dual edge Super AMOLED
Cameras: 12MP + 16MP + 12MP; 10MP front
Storage: 256GB, no microSD support
Battery: 3500mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy Note 10 offers a cleaner design than the S10 range with vertical rear camera setup and a centralised punch-hole front camera.
It was the first Note device to offer a smaller screen but it retains all the S Pen performance of the other models. A few compromises have been made, such as a lower resolution display and no microSD support, but the Note 10 is a great option for those that have always wanted a Note but may have found it too big. There’s the option of 4G and 5G models too.
Samsung Galaxy Note 10 review
Samsung Galaxy Note 10+
Dimensions: 162.3 x 77.2 x 7.9mm, 196g, IP68
Display: 6.8-inches, 3040 x 1440 (498ppi), dual edge Super AMOLED
Cameras: 16MP + 12MP + 12MP + Depth; 10MP front
Storage: 256GB/512GB, microSD support (up to 1TB)
Battery: 4300mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ has the same design as the Note 10 but on a larger scale. It also ups the rear camera lenses to four, adding a depth sensor and it increases the screen resolution and size too.
The S Pen stylus and its gesture controls are great, while the huge screen and neat punch hole camera are everything you’d hope for from the Note series. There’s also smooth and speedy operation, making the Note 10+ a fabulous handset. Like the standard Note 10, there are 4G and 5G options.
Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ review
Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite
Dimensions: 163.7 x 76.1 x 8.7mm, 199g
Display: 6.7 inches, 2400 x 1080 (394ppi), Super AMOLED
Cameras: 12MP + 12MP + 12MP; 32MP front
Storage: 128GB, microSD
Battery: 4500mAh
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The Note 10 Lite arrived in January 2020 and is an entry to the Note range that reflects what Samsung tried to do with the S10e – have a cheaper model that still retained a premium name.
It’s no slouch with an Exynos 9810 octa-core platform underpinning everything and it only features a few corner cuts as opposed to the main Note 10 models. It’s also bigger than the standard Note 10, but slightly smaller than the Note 10+.
It doesn’t, however, quite have the specs to compete with the S10 Lite.
Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Lite initial review
Samsung / Pocket-lint
Samsung Galaxy A
Samsung also offers a wide range of A models, which might be worth considering depending on what you want from your smartphone. There’s some overlap with Galaxy S phones, especially at the top end.
Samsung Galaxy A90 5G
Dimensions: 164.8 x 76.4 x 8.4mm, 206g
Display: 6.7-inches, 2400 x 1080 (393ppi), Super AMOLED
Cameras: 48MP + 5MP + 8MP; 32MP front
Storage: 128GB, microSD support up to 512GB
Battery: 4500mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy A90 5G has a large display with a small waterdrop notch at the top and a triple vertical camera on the rear, neatly positioned in the top left corner. It’s also Snapdragon 855, so this is flagship grade, even if it is 2019 flagship grade.
There are some excellent features onboard this device, not just a lovely design and build quality but a triple rear camera, an under-display fingerprint scanner and 5G.
Samsung Galaxy A90 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A80
Dimensions: 165.2 x 76.5 x 9.3mm, 220g
Display: 6.7-inches, 2400 x 1080 (392ppi), Super AMOLED
Cameras: Rotating 48MP + 8MP + HQVGA
Storage: 128GB, no microSD support
Battery: 3700mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy A80 has a huge, uninterrupted display thanks to the automatic slide up rotating camera. We weren’t 100 per cent sold on the rotating mechanism’s durability, but the A80 is a lovely looking device with some great features.
There are some excellent specs under its hood, including plenty of RAM, a battery that will likely see you through the day, as well as an under-display fingerprint sensor, bringing lots of flagship features for less money than the flagship Galaxy devices.
Samsung A80 review
Samsung Galaxy A71
Dimensions: 163.6 x 76.0 x 7.7mm, 179g
Display: 6.7-inches, 2400 x 1080 (392ppi), Super AMOLED Plus
Cameras: 64MP main + 12MP ultra wide + 5MP macro + depth sensor; 32MP (f/2.2) front
Storage: 128GB, microSD support up to 1TB
Battery: 4500mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy A71 was announced at the start of 2020, essentially an update for the A70. That brings with it newer hardware, but similar core specs. There’s the shift to Infinity-O for the display, with a punch hole rather than the notch of the A70. There is also a 5G version in some regions.
That’s joined by a higher resolution rear camera, going after the megapixels in this mid-range device. If you love the S10 range but you can’t justify the price tag, the A71 is half the price with plenty to love.
Samsung A70 review
Samsung Galaxy A51 5G
Dimensions: 158.9 x 73.6 x 8.7mm, 187g
Display: 6.5-inches, 2400 x 1080 (405ppi), Super AMOLED
Cameras: 48MP main + 12MP ultra-wide + 5MP depth + 5MP macro; 32MP (f/2.2) front
Storage: 128GB, microSD support up to 1TB
Battery: 4500mAh
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There’s a few small differences between the Galaxy A51 and the Galaxy A71 models, but overall this is an update on the A50 model, with a larger display, increased resolution on the cameras and a larger battery capacity.
It’s still a mid-range device, but it is available with 5G in some regions. The base level of storage is generous with microSD expansion and a there’s a nice punch hole display too.
Samsung Galaxy A41
Dimensions: 149.9 x 69.8 x 7.9mm, 152g
Display: 6.1-inches, 2400 x 1080 (431ppi), Super AMOLED
Cameras: 48MP main + 8MP ultra wide + 5MP depth; 25MP front
Storage: 64GB, microSD support up to 512GB
Battery: 3500mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy A41 updates the A40, moving to a 0.2-inch larger display with an under-display fingerprint scanner and a largwer battery. It keeps the Infinity-U display, so there’s a water drop notch at the top, rather than the punch hole that you’ll find on the A51.
There’s a step-down in the number of cameras from the A51, missing out on the macro camera, but otherwise the A41 offers a nice compact Samsung handset.
The Samsung Galaxy A21s has a huge display with a punch hole selfie camera in the top left corner, a huge battery that should more than see you through the day and a quad camera on the rear in a camera housing that resembles the more expensive S20 range.
There’s a physical fingerprint sensor on the rear and microSD support for storage expansion too. The resolution isn’t the highest, nor is the internal storage but for the price, the A21s could be a good option for those that want a Samsung with a big screen and big battery.
Samsung Galaxy A21e
Dimensions: 147.4 x 69.7 x 8.4mm, 141g
Display: 5.8-inches, 1560 x 720 (296ppi), TFT LCD
Cameras: Dual rear 13MP (f/1.9) main + 5MP (f/2.2) ultra wide; 8MP front (f/2.0)
Storage: 32GB, microSD support up to 512GB
Battery: 3000mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy A21e doesn’t have a punch hole camera like the A20s – instead opting for a waterdrop notch at the top – making it look a little more dated. There’s a big enough display though, a dual rear camera and it still has a nice design for the price.
You get a little more with the A21s – especially in the case of the battery – but the A21e still has an ultra-wide angle camera on the rear to give you some interesting shots, as well as some software features for great selfies from the front.
Samsung Galaxy A10
Dimensions: 146.1 x 71.4 x 7.9mm, 157g
Display: 6.2-inches, 1520 x 720 (271ppi), TFT LCD
Cameras: 13MP (f/1.9, AF, FHD video), 5MP front (f/2.0)
Storage: 32GB, microSD support up to 512GB
Battery: 3400mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy A10 is the cheapest A model device but it still has a huge display for its footprint, a large battery capacity that should easily see you through a day and then some and plenty of storage from the 512GB microSD support.
It doesn’t have a fingerprint sensor and it only offers a single rear camera and single front camera, but if you’re after a cheap Samsung device with a nice design and basic specifications, the Galaxy A10 might be the one for you.
Samsung / Pocket-lint
Samsung Galaxy Z
The Samsung Galaxy Z series sits at the top of the Galaxy portfolio in terms of price, mainly down to their folding designs. The two latest models are the Galaxy Z Fold 2 and the Galaxy Z Flip. There’s also the original folding device in the Galaxy Fold but it has had its issues so the newer model is likely the better option.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2
Dimensions: 159.2 x 128.2 x 6.9mm (unfolded), 159.2 x 68 x 16.8mm (folded), 282g
Internal display: 7.6-inches, 2208 x 1768 (372ppi), AMOLED
External display: 6.2-inches, 2260 x 816 (388ppi), AMOLED
Cameras: 12MP (f/1.8, AF, OIS), 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), 12MP telephoto (f/2.4), two 10MP front (f/2.0)
Storage: 256GB, no microSD support
Battery: 4500mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 succeeds the original Galaxy Fold, offering the same book-style design with a vertical fold but featuring a number of refinements, including a hinge redesign. There’s also a larger external display on board and punch hole front cameras for a neater finish.
The Galaxy Z Fold 2 appears to have fixed some of the biggest issues with the original Fold so if you’re after a folding smartphone and the latest innovation Samsung has to offer in terms of design, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 might be the one for you.
Samsung Galaxy Fold 2 review
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 vs Fold: What’s the difference?
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
Dimensions: 167.3 x 73.6 x 7.2mm (unfolded), 87.4 x 73.6 x 17.3mm (folded), 183g
Internal display: 6.7-inches, 2636 x 1080 pixels (425ppi), AMOLED
External display: 1.1-inches, 300 x 112 pixels (303ppi)
Cameras: 12MP (f/1.8), 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), 10MP front (f/2.4)
Storage: 256GB, no microSD support
Battery: 3300mAh
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The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5G is also a foldable smartphone but it folds horizontally rather than vertically like the Fold, resulting in a very cool clamshell design. A little like an older Galaxy S model folded in half. There is a 4G model with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855+ and a 5G model running the Snapdragon 865+.
The Z Flip 5G allows you to have a larger display but without that length in your pocket and the hinge design offers various viewing angles. There are some compromises in terms of camera and battery but for those after retro cool, the Z Flip could definitely be the Galaxy for you.
Apple is working with TSMC to develop ultra-thin and energy-efficient micro OLED displays for its upcoming augmented reality devices, Nikkei Asia is reporting. The R&D project is said to be in a trial production stage, focusing on displays that are smaller than one inch in size and “several years” away from commercialization. Apple is also said to be developing MicroLED displays at the same Apple lab in Taiwan.
According to Nikkei, the micro OLED displays in development are able to be so thin and compact because they’re built directly onto chip wafers, rather than glass like traditional OLED or LCD screens. News of the project follows reports that Apple has both VR and AR headsets in development. It could release its first VR headset (codenamed N301) as early as next year, while a more lightweight pair of AR glasses (codenamed N421) could follow in 2023. N301 reportedly features two 8K displays and a fabric exterior to cut down on its weight, while future headsets could eventually use this new panel technology to become slimmer and lighter.
A mockup showing what Apple’s VR headset could look like.Image: The Information
As well as working on micro OLED, Nikkei reports that Apple is also working on MicroLED display technology at the same secretive lab in Taiwan. These self-emissive panels, which use miniature LEDs to remove the need for a traditional backlight, could eventually end up in devices like the Apple Watch, iPad, and MacBooks. Samsung already sells a MicroLED TV called The Wall, though the technology is a long way from being mainstream or affordable.
As a sidenote: micro OLED and MicroLED are distinct from Mini-LED, which uses an array of LEDs as a backlight behind a more traditional LCD display. Mini-LED technology is already available in TVs from the likes of TCL, and Apple is also reportedly working to bring it to devices like iPads and MacBooks in the not-too-distant future.
According to Nikkei, Apple’s R&D efforts are an attempt to reduce its reliance on other companies, like Samsung, to supply its displays. The iPhone 12’s OLED display is thought to be its second most expensive third-party component behind its Qualcomm 5G modem, for example. While Apple may end up using these technologies in its products, it could also just use its work to acquire technology patents, giving it more control over these next-gen technologies, Nikkei notes.
Apple isn’t the only company working to develop these display technologies. Sony Semiconductor Solutions has developed micro OLED displays for AR and VR headsets, while a partnership of BOE, Yunnan North OLiGHTEK Opto-Electronic Technology, and Kopin are also working together on the tech. Meanwhile, Samusung, BOE, and San’an Optoelectronics are also working to commercialize MicroLED displays.
Visible, the Verizon-owned MVNO, is adding some new services that make using it just a bit more like subscribing to one of the big wireless carriers. Starting today, Visible now supports activating service via eSIM. It only works with recent, compatible iPhones, but Visible says it will add support for Android devices soon. The company also is offering 5G service (with limits) and free calling and messaging to Canada and Mexico.
Visible customers’ access to Verizon’s 5G network has some important fine print: both Nationwide and Ultra Wideband are included, but data speeds will be capped at 200Mbps. Direct carrier subscribers (AKA Verizon customers) also have priority on the fastest data speeds during times of congestion. That’s par for the course for MVNOs. While they can offer competitively priced plans, they’re commonly subject to limitations like speed reductions for heavy data users and streaming video at 480p only.
eSIM support makes a lot of sense with Visible’s all-digital ethos: customers with compatible phones can switch to Visible without waiting for a physical SIM card to be mailed. By opting for an embedded rather than removable SIM card, eSIM technology makes it easier to switch carriers using an existing device. That’s very appealing to MVNOs trying to compete with the big carriers.
Visible’s announcement today also includes news about its Party Pay plans, which allow customers to share plan costs while maintaining separate accounts and billing. Previously capped at four people, these plans can now include an unlimited number of lines.
Finally, Visible will no longer charge for calls and texts between the mainland US and Canada, Mexico, US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. It’s increasingly the norm for US carriers to include calling and SMS from the US to neighboring regions without an extra fee or at low monthly flat rate. All of these features (except for upcoming Android eSIM support) are available starting today.
Qualcomm has announced its latest 5G modem — the Snapdragon X65, a successor to last year’s Snapdragon X60 which just started to hit devices as part of the Snapdragon 888 chipset. Qualcomm promises that the new modem will be much, much faster, with support for up to 10Gbps speeds on both standalone and non-standalone 5G networks (assuming your carrier supports it, that is.)
It’ll likely be some time before the X65 hits any devices; if history is any indication, it likely won’t show up until next year’s flagship Snapdragon release, which presumably will be announced in December.
The new 10Gbps maximum download speed — up from 7.5Gbps on last year’s model — is the flashiest spec, even if its a largely meaningless one, as virtually no 5G network can provide that kind of throughput yet. But it means that there’s plenty of headroom in the specification for networks for whenever they can get to that point.
That flexibility for future improvements is at the heart of one of the other big features of the X65: support for the upcoming 3GPP Release 16 specification (Qualcomm says that it’s the first modem to do so). That’s the so-called “5G phase 2” rollout that’s designed to improve things like massive MIMO connectivity, power consumption, and more. Release 16 is also meant to help 5G networks expand from consumer to more commercial uses, thanks to better support for unlicensed spectrum and non-public networks.
To that end, Qualcomm says that the architecture of the X65 modem system is upgradable, allowing the company to add new features over time, especially as 3GPP Release 16 continues to roll out, allowing devices to stay relevant and up to date for longer.
Along with the new modem system, Qualcomm is also announcing the Qualcomm 545 mmWave antenna, its 4th-generation mmWave antenna, which keeps the size the same as the third-generation model, but adds higher transmit power, along with support for the full range of global mmWave frequencies.
Lastly, Qualcomm is introducing what its calls “AI antenna tuning technology,” which it promises will enable big jumps in performance thanks to AI-powered tuning. For example, Qualcomm says that the new system is 30 percent more accurate at detecting how you’re gripping the phone in your hand, allowing it to offer improved connectivity, faster data speeds, and better battery life by utilizing a more efficient connection.
The Snapdragon X65 is expected to launch in products in late 2021.
(Pocket-lint) – In the recent past there was a moment when Huawei – the then champion Chinese export – looked poised to strike as the next brand (sure, it’s still huge, just less global right now). But the tables turned fast, locking out Google Services – largely down to tumultuous political wars – which left the door open somewhat in Europe.
Pushing its foot through that gap with keen assertion is Xiaomi. No, this other Chinese tech mega-company is no stranger to phone-making – having revealed some of the earliest near bezel-free devices to the market – but it’s now at a position, in design terms at least, where it’s at the very cutting edge.
For the Mi 11, complete with its curved screen design and fresh take on cameras, is a visual delight (to us it somewhat echoes Huawei’s P40 Pro, hence the comparison).
But the Mi 11 is also the first phone to every deploy Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 888 top-tier processor, showing Xiaomi is a step ahead in the hardware stakes too. So are we looking at the next big brand that’s about to blow up?
Design & Display
Dimensions: 164.3 x 74.6 x 8.06mm / Weight: 196g
Frosted glass finishes: Midnight Gray, Horizon Blue
Display: 6.81-inch AMOLED quad-curved panel
Resolution: 3200 x 1440 (WQHD+)
Refresh rate: adaptive 120Hz
In-screen fingerprint scanner
Sound by Harman Kardon
“It’s just a phone”, right? Sure, there’s only so far you can push the mold when it comes to creating a rectangular interactive screen, but the Mi 11 is refined at every turn.
Pocket-lint
Whether it’s the subtle curved glass edges, the subtle gradient and light-catching properties of the frosted glass rear, or the deftly cut punch-hole camera to the front (it’s way neater than most others), the Mi 11 is poised to perfection; a chiselled model on a flagship phone catwalk.
Wrapped into that design is a lot of top quality specification too. The screen, a 6.81-inch AMOLED panel, is large but proportioned so it’s not ridiculous for thumb-reach across it (the aspect ratio is 20:9). The always-on panel can glow to those subtle curved edges as a not-too-intrusive alert mechanism, too, which looks wonderful.
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As is often the case with OLED panel balancing, however, when the screen is dimmed it crushes the blacks somewhat. Not nearly as badly as, say, the Oppo Find X2 Pro, but it’s definitely there. And, to some degree, the software seems a bit too keen to push the brightness down a notch – one of the number of quirks to Xiaomi’s MIUI software (here reviewed as 12.0.1, but 12.5 is expected very soon – and that could largely change things up).
The screen’s spec doesn’t stop reaching for the stars there either. It’s got a 2K resolution, with an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate to help smooth out animations and gameplay (oddly the refresh rate page in the settings calls 120Hz ‘Medium’ compared to 60Hz’s ‘Standard’, with no ‘High’ option – it’s not very well termed).
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As ever with refresh rate, it impacts battery life, as does the resolution chosen. But the Mi 11 can run WQHD+ (that’s 3200 x 1440 pixels) at the 120Hz rate – which is as good as things get at this moment in time. There’s also FHD+ (2400 x 1080) and automatic switching options to help save that battery life all the more.
The high-spec screen is matched with high-spec innards too. As the first device to sport the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 platform – here with 8GB RAM, there’s supposedly a 12GB option that we don’t anticipate for global markets – it’s put heaps of core power at your fingertips.
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And a fair bit of heat to match – a powerful processor, even a 5nm platform such as the SD888, can’t exactly run cool, so expect some hand-warming (which, given it’s snowing at the time of writing here in the UK, hasn’t been something of complaint).
So while the setup will run your favourite games and apps at their best – enhanced by the available refresh rate and resolution of that screen – it will of course impact battery life. Inside the Mi 11 there’s a 4,600mAh cell which is reasonable enough – and also sports 55W fast-charging and 50W wireless charging – but will drain faster than your average on account of the high-end specification.
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But we’re not talking to a problematic level: we ran from 9am to 1am, including four hours of gaming off and on, and those 16 hours of use took the battery into its final 15 per cent. So even with pretty solid usage – the above meant nearly seven hours of screen time – the Mi 11 will get you through the day.
Part of the reason for this is the fairly high impact of Xiaomi’s MIUI software. There are lots of options, a number of alerts to suggest limiting certain functions to retain battery, and a lot of per-app permissions that you’ll need to tinker with to ensure everything runs as you please.
When we reviewed the Redmi Note 9T, which was initially running the same MIUI 12.0.1 software as this review Mi 11, we hit walls and walls of problems. The Mi 11, however, hasn’t suffered the same – being far more stable. That said, we’ve found some off-and-on issues with notifications not being immediate at all times – likely a tucked-away battery-saving technique? – and other little quirks.
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Now, the Mi 11 is expected to launch globally with MIUI 12.5, which should bring an updated and fresher approach. How much difference this will make and what tweaks it will bring is yet to be seen. But as we find the tinkering nature of MIUI to be the biggest hurdle of this device, seeing the software advance to a more natural, usable state would be great too see.
On the cameras front the Mi 11 takes a different, rather refreshing approach: yes there’s quite a number of lenses here – three, count ’em – but none are there for the heck of it.
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Each lens has its own task: the main camera is super high-resolution; there’s an ultra-wide to cram more into a scene; while the 5-megapixel telemacro is the best we’ve seen yet for close-up shooting (although it’s still not quite perfect).
That’s refreshing compared to the various phone camera setups that appear with four or five lenses, many of which do little or nothing at all. The Mi 11’s only real absence is there’s no optical zoom of any kind – which seems like an oddity at this level, but then the expected €749 starting price more than goes to explain that.
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Anyway, back to the cameras themselves. The main lens is 108-megapixels, but it uses four-in-one pixel processing to produce 27-megapixel images. Those are, inevitably, still massive – 6016 x 4512 pixels in 4:3 aspect ratio – but there’s heaps of detail crammed in. It’s a decent optic with good results, including from low-light conditions.
Indeed, the night mode does a grand job of long exposure handheld shots too, aided by the optical image stabilisation system to keep things steady.
The telemacro, however, doesn’t feature any stabilisation – which can make it a bit tricky to use. You’ll get some great close-ups, but there’s not the same degree of accomplishment with sharpness or detail – partly because it’s 5-megapixels only, partly because the autofocus feedback here is limited and not entirely helpful (but, hey, at least it’s a macro lens with autofocus – something you’ll barely see elsewhere).
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All in all, despite the absence of proper optical zoom lenses, the Mi 11’s take on cameras is pretty strong. The main lens is great, the wide-angle accomplished, and the telemacro actually useful for creating unusual close-up shots. Here’s hoping the alleged Pro and Ultra models – if they come to fruition – expand on this already great camera setup and make it better yet.
First Impressions
So is Xiaomi about to blow up as the next big thing? Well, it could suffer a similar fate as Huawei – what with the US Administration adding it to its blacklist – which would be a shame as the Mi 11 is a potentially storming flagship.
No only does the Mi 11 hit a number of firsts – such as introducing the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 to the world – it’s also attractively priced, with €749 set as the opening sum. For all that’s on offer here that’s super value.
The Mi 11’s fresh take on cameras – there aren’t lenses here for the heck of it – and accomplished design are among its highlights. Sure, the MIUI software has its quirks, which we think is the most questionable part of the package, but it’s stable and tinkerable enough to shape into a strong overall experience.
The Xiaomi Mi 11 is packed full of potential. At this price, it’s certainly worth you taking a moment of your time to mull it over as your next Android flagship.
Xiaomi is announcing the international version of its Mi 11 flagship phone today after an earlier release in China. No wild waterfall displays or sci-fi wireless charging here — this device is very much in keeping with the Mi series’ MO of offering high specs at a competitive price.
The Mi 11 has a Snapdragon 888 processor, making it the first phone to launch with Qualcomm’s latest high-end chip (though Samsung’s Galaxy S21 series beat it to market outside China). The 888 has 5G connectivity built in, of course, and the phone has 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage.
The screen appears to be the same panel — or very similar — to what’s found in the Galaxy S21 Ultra. It’s a slightly curved 6.8-inch 1440p OLED with a refresh rate of 120Hz and peak brightness of 1,500 nits, matching Samsung’s phone spec-for-spec. I don’t have the S21 Ultra to compare side-by-side, but I can tell you that the Mi 11’s screen is extremely good.
The Mi 11 has a 108-megapixel primary camera backed by a 13-megapixel ultrawide and a 5-megapixel “telemacro” camera. The selfie camera is 20 megapixels and tucked inside a small holepunch cutout at the top left of the screen.
The battery is 4,600mAh and can be charged at up to 55W with a cable and up to 50W wirelessly. The Mi 11 also features reverse wireless charging at up to 10W. It runs MIUI 12, based on Android 11.
Xiaomi hasn’t provided a full list of regions or launch dates just yet, but says the Mi 11 will be priced at €749 (~$900) for the 8GB/128GB model. XDA Developers notes the 8GB/256GB model will retail for €799 (~$960). Stay tuned for a full review.
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