In a recent development, design details of the rumored Samsung tri-folding phone have popped up online. Earlier it was reported that Samsung has begun working on its tri-folding phone with a potential launch date slated for 2025. Although, later an information by display analyst Ross Young, it was tipped that Samsung's tri-folding phone may not see the light of the day until 2026. However, the latest reports not only give us insights into the design of the phone but also suggest it could be unveiled alongside other foldables in the second half of this year.

According to the report, unlike the world's first tri-folding phone from Huawei, the Huawei Mate XT's S-shape folding design, Samsung has opted for a G-type folding design. This means that Samsung's tri-folding phone will fold inward twice. There are a few benefits to this design over Huawei's outward folding design. Notably, Samsung's approach is expected to be more durable and protect the display from external damage, since foldable displays are already very fragile.

When folded, Samsung's tri-folding phone will be fully enclosed, providing added protection to the display from impacts and scratches. Upon unfolding, the device will offer an impressive screen size and will act as a tablet experience. The initial production is likely to be limited, with fewer than 300,000 units expected, purportedly the same strategy Samsung is tipped to follow for its Galaxy S25 Slim model. Previously, it has also been reported that Samsung may add a first-of-its-kind folding battery inside its tri-folding phone.

It is also rumored that Samsung may forgo UDC (Under Display Camera) technology in its tri-folding phone due to concerns over the low quality of images. As per an industry insider, "the triple fold product will have three display panels, two internal and two external hinges, and related hardware technology will also be improved, so it will be much more expensive than existing foldable phones. Since it is an ultra-expensive product, the initial quantity will not be set that high considering demand."

As far as pricing is concerned, Samsung may keep the price steep, given the technology and additional components it involves. However, they may also want to keep the price in check, as Huawei's tri-folding phone launched at around $2,800 did not meet sales expectations, due to its high cost.

Source: Sisa Journal

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The Pixel 4a, a well-regarded release in Google's line of budget-minded phones with nice cameras and decent stock software, was not supposed to get any more updates. This week, it will receive a rather uncommon one—one that intends to lower its reported battery life.

The Pixel 4a, released in the summer of 2020, was discontinued at the end of 2022. It received its last official software update in the summer of 2023, followed by a surprise security update in November 2023. Throughout 2024, there were no updates. This week, owners of the 4a (and likely many former owners) are getting a new update, along with an email titled "Changes coming to your Pixel 4a."

The email addresses "an upcoming software update for your Pixel 4a that will affect the overall performance and stability of its battery." The automatic software update to Android 13 "introduces new battery management features to improve the stability of your device," which will "reduce your battery's runtime and charging performance."

Google goes into more detail on a support page about the "Pixel 4a Battery Performance Program," noting that only some "Impacted Devices" will see the reduced capacity and charging performance. Those with such devices (determined by a survey) have three options beyond just taking the hit: sending their phone in for a free battery replacement, receiving $50 (or the non-US equivalent) payment, or getting $100 toward a new Pixel phone from the Google Store. Those with impacted phones have one year from the scheduled software update on January 8, 2025, to choose an "appeasement option."

Google has skipped the details on why "available battery capacity and charging performance" are taking a hit and what makes a device "Impacted," stating only that the company has "determined that certain Pixel 4a phones" need to "improve the stability of their battery's performance." But there are some educated guesses to be made. Given that the batteries in most Pixel 4a phones are somewhere between two to five years old and some of them were likely kept in capacity-diminishing low states of charge, many are in rough shape.

Being in such rough shape, they may not provide all the power demanded by the phone, especially in notably cold or hot conditions. By constraining the battery levels at which the phone can operate, Google can prevent phones from dealing with inconsistent power that can result in unexpected behavior or shutdowns. It's akin to what happened with older iPhones being slowed down in late 2017, except Google is coming out in front of its software fix and compensating users for the change rather than waiting for it to play out in the courts.

Ars has contacted Google for comment and will update this post if we receive a response.

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In an official newsroom post, Samsung said, "Get ready for AI that is more natural and intuitive. The next evolution of Galaxy AI is coming and it’s going to change the way you interact with the world every day. The new Galaxy S series is about to set the bar once again for mobile AI experiences now and into the future."

Additionally, Samsung has revealed the pre-reservation benefits of the upcoming devices. Upon pre-reserving any of the Galaxy S25 phones, users can receive a $50 credit or "Reservation Gift" (as the company calls it), which can be applied toward purchasing other eligible products, including cases, Galaxy watches, Galaxy Tablets, etc., via the Samsung website or Shop Samsung app.

Samsung is also offering a chance to win a $5,000 Samsung gift card for anyone placing a reservation, with no purchase required. The company further notes that users can save up to $1,250 which includes both the trade-in benefits of up to $900, up to $300 in instant credits, and the $50 reserve credit. Reservation is completely free, requiring only an email address.

Aside from the Galaxy S25 series trio, Samsung is also expected to give a glimpse at the much-anticipated Galaxy S25 Slim and its Galaxy XR headset, codenamed "Project Moohan" during the Unpacked event. The Galaxy Ring 2 may also make an appearance during the event.

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The images show the Galaxy S25+ and the Galaxy S25 Ultra in blue color. Based on these images, the blue color does appear more vibrant than what it was rumored to look like. Notably, the blue color is tipped to be dubbed "Icy Blue" for the Galaxy S25 and S25+ models, while it will be called "Titanium Blue" for the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Both colors look different from each other, as evident from the different names. Interestingly, the blue color of the Galaxy S25 Ultra closely resembles a previously leaked version.

Both the Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25 Ultra are shown inside a transparent case, which is reportedly the Spigen Crystal Flex case. For both devices, everything matches what has already been leaked about the device. However, one of the highlighting features that the images reveal is a MagSafe-style ring on the back, suggesting the support for Qi2 wireless charging support on both Galaxy S25+ and S25 Ultra models. It is rumored that Samsung will finally integrate the Qi2 wireless charging standard across the Galaxy S25 lineup.

The Galaxy S25 series is expected to have the slimmest bezels in the market. Although the exact measurements remain unknown, it is just a matter of a few weeks before everything becomes official.

Source and images: Gizmochina

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It is tipped that Chinese smartphone manufacturers plan to launch more phones with bigger batteries as large as 7,000mAh to 8,000mAh starting next year. Reports suggest that Chinese OEMs aim to achieve this without adding bulk to their smartphones. In response, Samsung and Apple are ramping up their efforts, and are reportedly, developing new battery technologies to keep up with their Chinese rivals.

Samsung is said to be at the forefront and is directly involved in the development of advanced battery materials. The South Korean giant is working on improving anode and cathode materials to produce an entirely new battery composition, which would offer better performance and efficiency. One of the technologies includes significantly increasing the silicon content in the batteries. While higher silicon levels often lead to battery expansion, it is said that Samsung has found a solution to tackle these issues.

Apple is also entering the fray and is following a strategy similar to Samsung's. However, Apple may not make use of the rumored new battery tech until after 2026. It remains unclear if Samsung will use the advanced battery tech inside its flagship models or limit it to its mid-range and budget offerings.

Source: Jukan Losreve (via Naver)

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The Galaxy A16 5G smartphone, priced at $199.99, comes with some cool upgrades from its earlier version, the Galaxy A15. It features a 6.7-inch Full HD+ AMOLED screen and a 90Hz refresh rate for vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling. The phone is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 1330 processor, which should provide smooth performance for everyday tasks. For photos, it has a 50MP main camera, a 5MP ultra-wide sensor, a 2MP macro lens, and a 13MP front camera.

The phone has a 5,000mAh battery with 25W Super-Fast Charging, ensuring you can stay connected throughout the day. The Galaxy A16 5G is also built to last (IP54 rated), with splash and dust resistance and six years of software and security updates—something rare for phones in this price range. Samsung specifically states that the Galaxy A16 5G will receive "6 generations of One UI and Android OS upgrades, as well as 6 years of security updates."

Alongside the Galaxy A16 5G, Samsung also announced the Galaxy Fit3 fitness tracker for $59.99. It can monitor your heart rate, track your sleep patterns, and even detect snoring. It supports over 100 types of workouts, so whether you like running, swimming, or yoga, the Fit3 has you covered. It’s also built to last, with up to 13 days of battery life and water resistance for activities like swimming.

Both the Galaxy A16 5G and Fit3 will be available through Samsung's official website, as well as various retailers and carriers nationwide, starting January 9, 2025. The Galaxy A16 5G will be available in blue black and light gray, while the Galaxy Fit3 will come in gray, silver, and pink gold.

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These days, even mid-range, affordable Android smartphones are stepping up their game with a 120Hz display. In contrast, the $799 standard iPhone 16 and $899 iPhone 16 Plus are still launching with a modest 60Hz display, which can be disappointing. However, there's hope for the next generation of iPhones, as Apple might be gearing up to boost the refresh rate.

The news comes on the heels of a report by Chinese tipster Digital Chat Station, stating that the standard version of the iPhone 17 series is likely to have a high refresh rate. The tipster adds that the information is based on supply chain materials.

While the exact refresh rate of the standard iPhone 17 is yet to be discovered, Apple is less likely to opt for a 120Hz refresh rate. Instead, the standard models could get a 90Hz refresh rate, while the 120Hz grade is reserved for the Pro and Pro Max models. Digital Chat Station hasn't provided more context, so we should take these claims with a pinch of salt.

In the meantime, Apple reportedly has a Slim/Air version of the iPhone 17 in the pipeline, which is supposed to replace the Plus models in the iPhone lineup. The device is tipped to be 2nm thinner than the iPhone 16 Pro and could also get a 90Hz display.

Before the iPhone 16 series launch, some sources reported that Apple wanted to hold forts with the latest iPhones while keeping its best innovations under the wraps for the iPhone 17 series. With mid-range Android smartphones boasting a 120Hz display, It's hard to imagine Apple being reckless enough to launch the iPhone 17 series with a 60Hz display.

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Reliable leaker IceUniverse suggests that the upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra will come with a second-generation Corning Gorilla Armor anti-glare screen. Furthermore, the display is rumored to offer significantly improved anti-reflective properties than the one on the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Samsung and Corning collaborated first for the Gorilla Armor for the Galaxy smartphones, with the first iteration debuting with this year's Galaxy S24 Ultra.

It is expected that this collaboration will expand next year with the Galaxy S25 Ultra featuring even better display protection and anti-reflective properties from Corning. Based on the information, the display on the Galaxy S25 Ultra may offer an elevated screen viewing experience. Recently, renders of the Galaxy S25 Ultra were leaked suggesting that the display will feature minimum bezels, and have rounded corners.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is rumored to feature upgraded cameras with Galaxy Z Fold6-like camera rings. A hands-on video also gave us a glimpse at the device's anticipated features, corroborating all the leaks that we have read so far. The Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset will be powering the entire Galaxy S25 lineup globally. The phone will come with One UI 7 based on Android 15 out of the box.

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The render shows off a circular camera module on the back of the device, which looks similar to its predecessor. It houses a triple-camera setup with the signature "Hasselblad" branding. It may come with a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide, and a 50MP 3x telephoto lens. For selfies, the OnePlus Open 2 could feature 32MP and 20MP cameras. It is unclear, which one will be available as the cover display camera.

Reportedly, the OnePlus Open 2 measures under 10mm when folded and boasts an IPX8 rating—an upgrade from the OnePlus Open's IPX4 rating. The main display on the device is tipped to be an 8-inch 2K LTPO, which will be accompanied by a 6.4-inch AMOLED cover display. The OnePlus Open 2 is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and could be paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage.

It is anticipated that the OnePlus Open 2 could pack one of the biggest batteries on any foldable. The foldable is tipped to get a 5,900mAh battery, an upgrade over the 4,800mAh battery on the OnePlus Open. The device is speculated to support 80W wired and 50W wireless charging. On the software side, the OnePlus Open 2 could ship with Android 15 and OxygenOS 15 out of the box.

Source: Smartprix

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Google’s Gemini assistant has steadily improved since launch but still falls short of a true AI assistant.

Sometimes AI gets it right — it correctly identifies an artificial plant here.

Apple Intelligence started shipping a month after the iPhone 16, but its blockbuster features won’t arrive until 2025.

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Apple recently released iOS 18.2, which brings several Apple Intelligence features such as Genmoji, Image Playground, and ChatGPT integration, enabling Siri to call its more capable AI friend when things go out of hand.

Overall, iOS 18 is a fairly big update from Apple that brings major design changes to several areas. For instance, the completely redesigned Control Center and customization options for the home screen. That said, some iOS 18 features might go unnoticed in the limelight of Apple Intelligence but could be handy at times. Here is a list of such small and useful features on iOS 18 you can't miss.

Note: These features are not arranged in any order of preference.

1. Hide app names, make icons bigger

iOS 18 lets you change the home screen look by hiding the app names below their icons. As a result, the home screen icons become a little bigger and easier to recognize.

To hide app names on the home screen, tap and hold in the empty space until the icons start shaking > Tap on Edit in the top-left corner > Customize. Now, tap the "Large" option to make the icons bigger and remove the app name.

You can read our detailed guide on how to customize the home screen on iOS 18.

2. Lock and hide apps

Speaking of hiding things, you can also hide apps from the home screen, App Library, and the Settings app. You can even lock the apps you want so no one can use them behind your back, even if they can access your device in an unlocked state.

You can lock and hide an app from the home screen and the App Library. Just tap and hold its icon > tap "Require Face ID." Read our guide for detailed steps to lock and hide your iPhone apps.

3. Find recently deleted reminders

If you use the iPhone Reminders app regularly, you can find your recently deleted reminders in a separate section. This helps in cases where you accidentally deleted a reminder or want to revisit something you removed in the past.

You can go to the "Recently Deleted" section under My Lists to see all the reminders you have deleted. You can tap on a recently deleted reminder to recover and edit it. The recovered reminder will move to the default list where it was initially saved.

4. Know if someone AirDropped your photos and videos

The Photos app on iOS 18 now has options that help you figure out if someone AirDropped photos and videos from your device. The Utilities collection includes albums called "Recently Viewed" and "Recently Shared," where you can find the images and videos that were opened and shared by someone.

5. Delete very large video files

If you have thousands of photos and videos in your Photos library, there is a high chance that you might have several storage-consuming videos that you barely revisit. The Settings app on iOS 18 now lets you find such lengthy videos eating up your paid iCloud storage and delete them. We have created a detailed guide explaining how you can remove such videos.

6. Continue playing music while taking photos and videos

If your iPhone is connected to a Bluetooth speaker or headphones, music will continue to play when you click pictures or record videos. This small but useful iOS 18 feature might be helpful at times, for instance, if you're the DJ at your home party and want to record the fun as well.

7. Share Wi-Fi passwords with Android users

Password sharing has been a feature on iPhones for a while, but it was limited to Apple devices only. iOS 18 makes another hole in Apple's walled garden by allowing users to share Wi-Fi passwords with Android users.

The new Passwords app in iOS 18 lets you share Wi-Fi passwords as QR codes. Android owners and other non-Apple users can scan the QR code to join the Wi-Fi network.

8. Search your call logs

One of the pain points of being an iPhone user was you couldn't search phone numbers in your call log. So, if you were to find who called you four days ago, it would be a tough game. The iOS 18 update brings a new search bar to the call log user interface, which you can find at the top of the screen. It appears in both the "All" and "Missed" tabs.

9. Schedule messages to send them later

Imagine you remembered your friend's birthday throughout the year but forgot it on the last day. Because you were too tired before midnight and dozed off. The Messages app now has the ability to schedule texts for a specific time so that such blunders rarely happen.

When composing a new message, tap on the "+" button, then select the "Send Later" option in the list. Next, you can schedule the date and time to send the message automatically.

10. New "Apps" page in the Settings app

The Settings app on iPhone used to offer a single scrollable UI where you need to dive into the clutter of apps and system settings. The iOS 18 update puts all the iPhone apps into one page called "Apps" (at the bottom of the Settings app) to reduce the clutter and make them easier to find. Of course, Apple isn't the first mover here, and Android has offered this comfort for years.

11. Easily manage your dual SIM setup

If you use multiple SIM cards on your iPhone, the Control Center now lets you manage them easily and switch between SIM cards like personal or business. Open the Control Centre > go to the Networks section > Press and hold Mobile data to get SIM card options. It would have been even better if Apple had added these options as buttons to the main UI of the Control Center.

12. Change lock screen controls

The wave of customization has also passed through the lock screen on iOS. Now, you can customize the two toggle buttons previously limited to Torch and Camera. You can replace them with multiple options present in the Controls gallery or remove them entirely for a minimalist look.

To swap the lock screen toggle buttons, tap and hold the lock screen until different options appear. Tap on Customize > Customize Current Wallpaper > tap on the desired control button once to remove it. You can tap that control button again to open the Controls gallery and choose your new option.

It is not just system apps; the Controls gallery also features options from third-party apps. For instance, you can pin Instagram or Snapchat directly to your lock screen.

13. Third-party apps in the Control Center

Apple revamped the Control Center entirely and now includes support for third-party apps. Following an update pushed by the automaker earlier this year, you can press a button in the Control Center to unlock your Tesla car, open its hood, or open the charging port.

If an app supports iOS 18 Control Center, you can find the options it offers by going to the Control Center gallery. To do so, tap on the "+" button in the top-left corner of the Control Center, then tap "Add a control" at the bottom.

14. Math Notes

The Notes app on iOS 18 now gives you one less reason to open the Calculator. It offers the Math Notes feature that solves math equations automatically. For instance, when you include the "+" operator between two numbers and type "=" after them, the Notes app will display the total automatically.

It supports simple stuff such as addition, subtraction, and division but can also handle complex things like equations, graphs, and variables.

15. Hide screenshots, wallpaper suggestions, and Clean Up photos

The redesigned Photos app on iOS 18 offers several useful features. You can hide the screenshots from the main library to reduce clutter when scrolling through your pictures and videos. Tap the Sort button (double-arrow button) in the bottom left corner > View Options > select "Screenshots" from the list.

If you want to give your device a makeover, the Photos app can also suggest wallpapers. To do so, open the Photos app and scroll down to the section called "Wallpaper Suggestions."

Another thing you can do with the Photos app is remove unwanted objects from images using the Clean Up feature. The tool uses AI to get rid of distracting objects from your photos. However, it's a part of the Apple Intelligence suite and available on iPhone 15 Pro and later models. You can find the Clean Up option at the bottom of the screen while editing a image.

16. InSight in Apple TV app

Among various updates, the Apple TV app now includes InSight. When watching movies and TV shows on Apple TV+, it displays real-time information about the actors, characters, and music currently playing on the screen. The feature is similar to the X-Ray feature on Amazon Prime Video.

17. Safari Distraction Control

Our web browsing experience typically isn't complete without unwanted elements popping up out of nowhere. Safari tries to address this problem with a feature called Distraction Control. It lets you hide the elements you find distracting on a web page. You can quickly revert the changes whenever you want.

Go to the web page you want and tap on the page menu button present on the left side of the address bar. Next, tap on the "Hide Distracting Items" option.

18. Erase external drive

The Files app lets you erase an external drive connected to your iPhone. You can tap and hold the drive in the app and press "Erase" to get the job done. You can also format external drives to APFS, exFAT or MS-DOS (Fat32) file formats on your iPhone.

19. Vehicle Motion Cues

Vehicle Motion Cues is a new feature designed to help people inside moving vehicles. The feature claims to reduce motion sickness when using your iPhone in a moving car. It displays small moving dots on the screen, which change their speed and direction according to the movement of your vehicle. You can read our detailed guide to set up Vehicle Motion Cues.

20. Eye Tracking

Users who have trouble using iPhones with their hands can use the eye-tracking capabilities built into iOS 18. It relies on the Face ID camera hardware to track your eye movement and operate the device without touching it. Here's how to set up and use eye tracking on iOS 18.

21. Mirror iPhone on a Mac

iOS 18 lets you control your iPhone from a Mac by mirroring its screen wirelessly. You can interact with your iPhone apps from the big screen, get notifications, and even move images and documents across devices.

You need macOS 15 installed on your Mac to support the feature and the same Apple ID on both devices. Go to the launchpad on your Mac >, open the iPhone Mirroring app, and follow the steps. Note that the screen mirroring will pause when you use your device and resume when you lock it.

22. Control Contacts access for apps

A new privacy feature baked into iOS 18 lets you choose which contacts to share on a per-app basis. Go to the Settings app > Privacy & Security > Contacts. Here, you can decide whether a particular app should access only ten contacts while another app can access all of them.

23. Automatic language detection

The multilingual keyboard on iOS 18 can remember what languages you use across different conversations in messages and switch languages automatically. For instance, if you are talking to one friend in English and another in Hindi, the keyboard can save some taps for you.

24. Dark mode for icons

Some people have a special place in their hearts for the dark mode. iPhone has had a system-wide dark mode for years, but iOS 18 has brought home screen icons to the dark side. You can customize these icons to go dark or add a color tint in the shade you want.

Apple has also updated the home screen to allow more flexible icon placement. You can place the icons anywhere on the screen, and they will not move to the top like they did in the past.

25. More content types in Utilities

The Utilities collection in the Photos app now filters images and videos into more content types. You can find specific albums for images containing documents, receipts, handwriting, illustrations, and QR codes.

These are some useful features you can find in the iOS 18 update. Of course, more can be added to this list. If you think we missed something, drop your thoughts in the comments.

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Apple routinely stops signing older versions of iOS after a new update is released. This practice is intended to encourage users to stay up-to-date with the latest security patches and features. Security vulnerabilities are frequently patched in newer iOS updates, and by stopping the signing of older versions, Apple effectively pushes users to update their devices to benefit from these critical security improvements.

For users, the message is clear: update to iOS 18.2 to benefit from the latest security patches and features. Updating to the newest version of iOS is an effective way to ensure your device is protected against potential security threats.

However, the decision to block downgrades can be a double-edged sword. Some users, particularly those who encounter compatibility issues with specific apps on newer versions, may find themselves stuck with a less-than-ideal iOS version.

While downgrade to iOS 18.1.1 is no longer allowed, iOS 17 will continue to receive security updates. Furthermore, users who are currently enrolled in the iOS 18.3 beta program still have the option to downgrade to iOS 18.2. This allows beta testers to revert to a stable version if they encounter any issues or prefer to wait for the official release of iOS 18.3.

Ultimately, Apple's decision to stop signing iOS 18.1.1 is a security-focused move that is likely to benefit the majority of users. While some users may be disappointed, the improved security of the iOS ecosystem is a worthwhile trade-off.

Via: 9to5Mac

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Later, the company made an unsuccessful offer to invest $100 million to lift the iPhone 16 sales ban. However, it appears that the $1 billion investment plan has done the trick, and people close to the matter claim that the government has accepted the investment. Reportedly, President Prabowo reviewed and approved Apple's investment plan during a recent meeting, encouraging his cabinet to attract further investment from global companies.

A key part of Apple's $1 billion investment includes setting up a manufacturing plant on the island of Batam. The factory will focus on producing AirTags, which is a tracking device used for tracking items such as luggage, keys, etc. The Batam plant is expected to create 1,000 jobs initially and eventually be responsible for 20% of the global AirTag production. Apple chose Batam as it offers free-trade zone benefits, which include exemption from value-added taxes, luxury taxes, and import duties.

Additionally, Apple plans to build another factory in Bandung, near Jakarta, to produce various accessories. The $1 billion investment will also fund Apple academies across the country, providing students with skills such as coding to support Indonesia's tech industry. The move also indicates Apple's commitment to expand its presence in Southeast Asia while meeting Indonesian regulations.

Source: Bloomberg

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A photo surfaced showing what appeared to be a working Galaxy S25+ prototype. The leaker, perhaps too eager to share, forgot to blur out the serial number at the bottom of the phone. This oversight was quickly spotted by eagle-eyed netizens. The serial number "CE092439139P4DF34E7ECE092" was clearly visible, making it a straightforward task for Samsung to trace the leak back to its source.

Max Jambor, a tech insider, took to X (formerly Twitter) to reveal that the leaker had been fired.

According to @chunvn8888, the individual is now pleading with Chinese internet users to delete the leaked images, warning that their company might take legal action.

This isn't the first time someone’s been let go over a leak. Apple has taken legal action against former employees for leaking confidential information. In March 2024, Apple sued former iOS engineer Andrew Aude, accusing him of leaking sensitive information to the press.

The lawsuit alleged that Aude used his company-issued iPhone to exchange thousands of messages with reporters over a five-year span, leaking details about unannounced apps, hardware characteristics, and research efforts in the spatial computing space. Apple claimed that Aude deleted evidence during a meeting, including the encrypted messaging app Signal, and was subsequently fired on December 15, 2023.

While all the leak drama's going down, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series is also getting attention for some other reasons. We’ve heard that the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event in 2025 will showcase four S25 models: the standard S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, and the new S25 Slim, which is allegedly being made in limited quantities.

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Image: Terry Cavanagh

Image: Square Enix

Image: Devolver Digital

Image: Gamious

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The Galaxy S25+ strikes a similar design as the Galaxy S24+ and has slimmer bezels all around. The main change can be seen in the images for Galaxy S25 Ultra. The corners are round, the bezels appear to have been trimmed even more than this year's model, and the device sports a flat display. We have already seen this design in a hands-on video of the alleged Galaxy S25 Ultra, which was leaked last month. Although the device isn't shown from the back, it is expected to feature upgraded cameras within the same module with Galaxy Z Fold6-like camera rings.

Details of the Galaxy Unpacked event have also leaked suggesting that Samsung could host the event in San Jose, California (USA) on January 22, 2025. The information was supported by a leaked Unpacked event promo teaser shared by Evan Blass. The teaser highlights four Galaxy S25 models, indicating that Samsung could unveil the much-speculated Galaxy S25 Slim as a surprise,

In another interesting development, tipster Max Jambor reported that a Samsung staff member who recently leaked live images of the Galaxy S25+ has been fired. Although the source of this information remains unclear, it appears that the employee responsible for the leak is no longer with the company.

Let us know in the comments below if the Galaxy S25 series is shaping up to be the lineup you were expecting based on these leaks and rumors!

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Contrary to these recent claims, prominent leaker Instant Digital on Weibo said (via machine translation) that while the appearance of the back on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max has changed "the triple-camera layout is still a triangle, not the horizontal strip that is currently circulating online." Earlier reports have also suggested that the cameras on the back of next year's Pro models will be getting bigger and occupy a chunk of space. Additionally, it has also been speculated that Apple will be using part aluminum and part glass back on the iPhone 17 Pro models to continue supporting the wireless charging technology.

Apple introduced the triangular camera module with the iPhone 11, and this layout has persisted in subsequent models. The design change was part of Apple's strategy to include a new ultrawide camera with improved sensors and optics. While rumors about next year's iPhone 17 camera layout have fueled much discussion, more clarity will likely emerge in the coming months.

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are also rumored to feature a new display technology called Low-Dielectric TEE, which will help in enhanced power saving. It was earlier speculated that Apple could switch to using aluminum frames on all iPhone 17 models, but Instant Digital refuted the claims and suggested that Apple would stick with titanium frames for iPhone 17 models. The Dynamic Island on the Pro Max model is also expected to get slimmer.

With all these and other changes, including the new iPhone 17 Slim/Air rumored to be incoming with next year's iPhone models, what are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Here is the list of the most downloaded apps and games for 2024 in different categories in the US:

Top 10 free iPhone apps:

• Temu: Shop Like a Billionaire
• Threads
• TikTok
• ChatGPT
• Google
• Instagram
• WhatsApp Messenger
• CapCut - Video Editor
• YouTube: Watch, Listen, Stream
• Gmail - Email by Google

Top 10 paid iPhone apps:

• Shadowrocket
• HotSchedules
• Procreate Pocket
• 75 Hard
• AnkiMobile Flashcards
• AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch
• Paprika Recipe Manager 3
• TonalEnergy Tuner & Metronome
• Goblin Tools
• Forest: Focus for Productivity

Top 10 free iPhone games:

• Block Blast！
• MONOPOLY GO!
• Roblox
• Call of Duty®: Warzone™ Mobile
• Township
• Last War: Survival
• Royal Match
• Brawl Stars
• Subway Surfers
• My Perfect Hotel

Top 10 paid iPhone games:

• Minecraft: Play with Friends
• Heads Up!
• Geometry Dash
• Papa's Freezeria To Go!
• Bloons TD 6
• Five Nights at Freddy's
• Plague Inc.
• MONOPOLY: The Board Game
• Stardew Valley
• Red's First Flight

Top 10 free iPad apps:

• YouTube: Watch, Listen, Stream
• Netflix
• Max: Stream HBO, TV, & Movies
• Calculator - Pad Edition
• Disney+
• Google Chrome
• Peacock TV: Stream TV & Movies
• Amazon Prime Video
• TikTok
• Goodnotes 6

Top 10 paid iPad apps:

• Procreate
• Procreate Dreams
• Shadowrocket
• forScore
• Nomad Sculpt
• ToonSquid
• Bluebeam Revu for ‌iPad‌
• AnkiMobile Flashcards
• Teach Your Monster to Read
• Endless Paper

Top 10 free iPad games:

• Roblox
• Magic Tiles 3: Piano Game
• MONOPOLY GO!
• Subway Surfers
• Brawl Stars
• Geometry Dash Lite
• Block Blast！
• Among Us!
• My Perfect Hotel
• Royal Match

Top 10 paid iPad games:

• Minecraft: Play with Friends
• Geometry Dash
• Five Nights at Freddy's
• Stardew Valley
• Bloons TD 6
• Papa's Paleteria To Go!
• Five Nights at Freddy's 2
• Poppy Playtime Chapter 1
• MONOPOLY: The Board Game
• Ultimate Custom Night

Top 10 Apple Arcade games:

• NBA 2K24 Arcade Edition
• Snake.io+
• Hello Kitty Island Adventure
• Sneaky Sasquatch
• Bloons TD 6+
• Sonic Dream Team
• NFL Retro Bowl '25
• Disney Dreamlight Valley
• Cooking Mama: Cuisine!
• Solitaire by MobilityWare+

Let us know in the comments below, how many of these apps you have downloaded on your iPhone or iPad.

Source: Apple

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Titanium Blue is expected to be the signature color of the upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra. However, according to the latest information, the Titanium Black color will be the most produced color option for the model. According to display analyst Ross Young on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Galaxy S25 Ultra's Titanium Black color will be produced the most in terms of volume. Black is a safe color option, which may explain Samsung's confidence in prioritizing this option.

Samsung is also anticipating the Titanium SilverBlue (which could be the signature color option) color to sell well. The Galaxy Z Fold6 already comes in a Navy Blue color option, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra could rock a similar shade. Following in the list are the Titanium Gray and WhiteSilver colors. There is a returning JetBlack color, which the company last offered with the Galaxy S10. The JadeGreen and PinkGold colors are expected to be produced in the lowest quantities.

Notably, the list purportedly shows the initial production volume, which Samsung can adjust based on the demand. Additionally, some colors on the list may be exclusive to online channels.

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Apple has been rumored to be working on a folding iPhone for quite some time, with a patent surfacing back in May this year. It was also reported that Samsung could supply displays for the foldable device. Apple was also rumored not to launch a foldable iPhone until it irons out the display crease issue. However, the company is allegedly moving ahead with its plan of launching a folding iPhone with a clamshell design in 2026.

The upcoming folding iPhone is expected in 2026. When unfolded, the device will feature a larger display than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. This means that the folding iPhone could come with at least a 7-inch display since the iPhone 16 Pro Max features a 6.9-inch display. The report adds that Apple has been working on these foldable devices for years, but its focus has shifted toward developing folding iPhones. The company has reportedly tackled significant hurdles, such as perfecting the hinge mechanism, which is an important part of any foldable.

Apple has explored the outward-folding design but now seems to have settled on an inward-folding design similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series. The folding iPhone is Apple's answer to reignite growth and breathe fresh air into the waning smartphone market.

Additionally, the report also adds that the rumored iPhone 17 Slim/Air could be cheaper than the Pro models. Currently, the iPhone 16 Pro model starts at $999, and if the report is to be believed, the iPhone 17 Slim/Air could cost around $900. This could be apt as the iPhone 17 Slim/Air is expected to replace the iPhone 16 Plus.

Source: The Wall Street Journal

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Reportedly, Samsung will be taking a cautious step and plans to produce only 3 million units of the Galaxy S25 Slim model. The step will be purportedly taken to gauge the market reactions to the model's new slim form factor. While earlier reports hinted at a January launch alongside the Galaxy S25 series, recent updates suggest the Galaxy S25 Slim could launch in Q2 of 2025.

The decision to release the Galaxy S25 Slim in the second quarter of 2025 in limited quantities mirrors the approach taken with the Galaxy Z Fold6 SE, which also witnessed a limited release. Notably, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Fold6 SE in Korea and Samsung W25 in China, which was much thinner than the global Galaxy Z Fold6 model. However, compared to the flagship Galaxy S-series, which usually sees an annual production of 30-35 million units, the 3 million units for the Galaxy S25 Slim may indicate a conservative approach.

Additionally, the number represents only one-tenth of the S-series production volume and 30% of the individual models such as the "Plus" variant. It is purported that the Galaxy S25 Slim could feature a 6.66-inch display, aligning with the rumored display size of the Galaxy S25 Plus. Moreover, the Galaxy S25 and S25 Ultra are tipped to feature a 6.16-inch and 6.86-inch display, respectively. The Galaxy S25 Slim is also expected to pack a 200MP primary camera, along with a 50MP ultrawide, and 50MP 3.5x optical lens.

An industry insider noted that "The biggest feature of the slim model is that the layout of the internal components of the smartphone is different. The key to design and development is to optimize the thickness of the smartphone to match the battery, which is thick and difficult to change the design." If the Galaxy S25 Slim garners a positive response, Samsung may continue with a slim phone in the future S-series lineup.

Source: ETNews

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According to a source close to Google (via Android Authority), the search giant weighed all options for 5G modems available on the market, including Qualcomm's Snapdragon X75, which powers Apple's iPhone 16 series. However, Google has chosen MediaTek's T900 modem for its next-gen Pixel phones.

The T900 is part of MediaTek's "M85" generation of modems, which were expected to support the newest 3GPP Release 17 5G specifications and possibly even standards newer than that. Meanwhile, the previous "M80" series topped out at Release 16 support, making this a sizeable upgrade— beyond that high-level specification. However, details about the T900 are less clear.

In this regard, it is a bold move on Google's part to go with an unproven MediaTek solution when an option existed to use Qualcomm's modem technology. This shows that Google is increasingly focused on establishing its in-house mobile ecosystem, independent of any third-party chipset vendors.

The fact that Google's in-house Tensor chipsets have already started to reduce the company's reliance on partners like Samsung and the shift to a MediaTek modem suggests that will continue. However, the risk with an unproven solution like the T900 is that it may affect the connectivity performance and compatibility of the Pixel 10.

In other news, Google's new Tensor G5 will also come with some key camera upgrades. In particular, it said that the chip will support 4K 60fps HDR video, which the current Tensor G4 does only with a cap of 4K 30fps HDR. Also mentioned in the document, Pixel 11 could offer 100x zoom capability.

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According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, a trusted source for Apple-related news and rumors, Apple designers are working on a giant foldable iPad for the upcoming years. As Gurman says, while the alleged product might move away from offering a hybrid iPad-Mac experience, it still holds elements from both devices.

Additionally, Apple's goal for its foldable iPad is to get rid of conventional creases seen in foldable phones. Instead, Apple wants an iPad that unfolds into the size of two iPad Pros side-by-side. Apple's product team could apparently design prototypes with nearly invisible creases. The alleged product has been under development over the past years and might finally make it to the market in 2028.

"It's not yet clear what operating system the Apple computer will run, but my guess is that it will be iPadOS or a variant of it. I don't believe it will be a true iPad-Mac hybrid, but the device will have elements of both. By the time 2028 rolls around, iPadOS should be advanced enough to run macOS apps, but it also makes sense to support iPad accessories like the Apple Pencil."

While the design of Apple's foldable iPad remains a mystery, the Cupertino-based firm might follow Lenovo's footsteps in Yoga Book 9i. Lenovo's product has two 13.3-inch OLED screens working side by side. However, Gurman says Apple's approach is to offer an integrated, unified display for an uninterrupted experience. This could potentially result in an Apple foldable iPad that expands to a massive 20 inches or so when unfolded.

Bloomberg's recent reporting aligns with a leaked roadmap by market research firm Omdia released last week. The alleged roadmap suggested that Apple would launch a foldable 18.8-inch tablet/note PC/monitor in 2028 with an OLED display.

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Starting off, the Pixel 9a is said to be powered by the Tensor G4 chipset, paired with the M2 Titan security chip. The device is claimed to feature a 6.285-inch Actua AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate boasting a peak brightness of 2,700 nits and a resolution of 1080x2424 (FHD+). The display could feature Gorilla Glass 3 protection with IP68 dust and water resistance.

The camera setup is likely to remain the same as the Pixel 8a. As per the leak, the Pixel 9a will feature a 48MP + 13MP dual-camera setup on the rear and a 13MP selfie camera. Notably, the 48MP main camera is said to be sourced from the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, enabling better low-light photography on the Pixel 9a. Under the hood, the Pixel 9a is tipped to be juiced by a 5,100mAh battery, which is 13% larger compared to the Pixel 8a (4,492mAh).

Gallery: Pixel 9a specifications

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You will get improved charging speeds, which stand at 7.5W wireless and 23W fast wired charging. The device won't feature Qi2 charging just like the Pixel 9 series launched this year. The Pixel 9a could launch in four colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris, and Peony, mirroring the colors of the standard Pixel 9. The phone is expected to get a bit taller and wider, but weigh less than its predecessor. It would reportedly measure 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9mm, and weigh 185.9 grams, compared to Pixel 8a which measures 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9mm with a weight of 188 grams.

Speaking of the price, the Pixel 9a is tipped to launch for $499 for the 128GB model and could cost $50 extra for the mmWave model, likely exclusive to Verizon.

Source and images: Android Headlines

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iOS 18.2 delivers some of the previously announced Apple Intelligence features. With the latest update, users can generate images in different styles based on text prompts, photos, and concepts. Also, the update lets you generate custom emojis right from the stock keyboard. If you need a very specific emoji that is not available by default, describe it to your iPhone, and it will generate it for you.

Another big part of iOS 18.2 is ChatGPT integration with Siri and Writing Tools. Siri can request information from ChatGPT to provide you with additional information or answer your questions. An important note is that you do not need an OpenAI account, albeit Apple lets you sign in with one if you want to access additional features.

Besides new Apple Intelligence features, Apple is expanding the availability to more countries. English-speaking customers in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK can now access Apple Intelligence on compatible devices.

Users with the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max can now enjoy more Camera Control features. Visual Intelligence now lets you capture something with your iPhone and ask Google or ChatGPT about the subject. Also, Camera Control now supports a two-stage shutter for focus and exposure control.

Other improvements in iOS and iPadOS 18.2 include Mail categorization, the ability to scrub frame-by-frame in the Photos app, new backgrounds for Safar, the option to import or export browsing data from and to Safari, natural language search in Apple Music, favorite categories in Podcasts, and more.

Here is the list of compatible iOS 18.2-compatible iPhones:

And here is the list of compatible iPads:

You can install iOS 18.2 or iPadOS 18.2 by heading to Settings > General > Software Update.

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