Smartphones and mobile devices are getting more powerful and more stylish each year, and they have become even more critical parts of our lives today. That makes it even more important to take care of these gadgets and protect them from accidents like drops and bumps. But while there’s a wide variety of protective cases available in the market, many of them are bulky, tacky, or downright unappealing, forcing people to choose between protection and style as if those two are innately contradictory.

Enter PITAKA, an accessory brand whose mission is to prove that beauty and durability can indeed mix. Its advanced weaving technology, creative use of materials, and talented craftsmanship come together to produce designs that are easy to use, reliable, and sophisticated. And with these Black Friday deals that give protective cases and stylish accessories a sweet discount, there has never been a better time to give your beloved gadgets the stylish protection they deserve.

Designer: PITAKA

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Classic Protection for the iPhone 16 Series

Many smartphone cases offer protection by adding considerable bulk and weight to your device, making them uncomfortable to use over long periods of time. If you need no-fuss protection that doesn’t get in your way, there’s nothing simpler than PITAKA’s Classic Ultra-Slim Case design. Measuring only 0.84 mm-0.89 mm in thickness and weighing around 17.78g-21g, these cases for the iPhone 16 Series offer not only the strength to protect your phone but also the sophistication you desire for these premium devices.

Utilizing high-grade aramid fiber blended with shockproof TPU, these ultra-slim cases protect your phone both inside and out. The smooth woven texture and metal button covers also add a touch of class to the experience. With PITAKA’s Amber Magnet Film technology, you also don’t have to worry about using MagSafe chargers and accessories while keeping the case on for 24/7 protection. Available in a 600D Black/Grey design, these slim yet strong cases bring peace of mind to every iPhone 16 Series owner.

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Nature-inspired Minimalist Beauty for the iPhone 16 Series

Minimalist design doesn’t need to be plain or boring, as these Ultra-Slim cases prove. Crafted from woven aramid fiber and a special 3D coating, these cases elevate your phone from a tech gadget to a fashion accessory. With Forest Green and Ocean Blue colors, you also add a touch of nature to your device while looking chic and stylish. Your fingers will also thank you for the smooth texture that makes the phone a joy to hold.

Of course, these cases don’t skimp on the protection just because they look pretty. In addition to high-grade durable materials, the cases also feature a raised lip around the cameras to protect the lenses from bumps and scratches. All these while maintaining an ultra-slim profile and lightweight body that won’t burden your hand. You don’t even have to bother taking the case off just to connect with MagSafe accessories thanks to PITAKA’s Amber Magnet Film tech, protecting your iPhone 16 all the time.

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Tactile Pleasure and Heavenly Wonders for the iPhone 16 Series

Considering we need to hold our phones in our hands to use them, these devices need to feel good just as much as they look good. The same is true for protective cases that wrap around the phones and rest in our hands. PITAKA’s products already combine craftsmanship and innovation, but its series of Tactile Woven cases take that to a whole new level of joyful aesthetic and tactile experience.

Leveraging a Fusion Weaving technique, these cases smash the boundaries of aramid fiber weaving to infuse a wider range of colors, turning the case into an art canvas. The Sunset & Moonrise Series as well as the Starpeak Series capture moments of time and breath-taking scenery, translating them into designs that inspire the mind and make us pause for thought. The woven texture also brings a unique experience to our fingertips, transforming the case into a true work of art.

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Military-Grade Protection for the iPhone 16 Pro

If you need a case that brings peace of mind that won’t weigh you down, PITAKA’s Classic Military-Grade case is exactly what you need. Utilizing high-grade durable materials and passing certifications such as MIL-STD-810G, these cases offer all-around protection against scratches, impacts, and shocks. Raised camera and screen lips also keep away surfaces that could otherwise scratch these important components.

Best of all, you don’t need to make your phone look like a tank to enjoy these benefits. Thanks to aramid fiber weaving, the case maintains that strength while keeping its body slim and lightweight. The unique woven pattern and smooth texture also give the case an elegance that you’d be hard-pressed to find in rugged protective accessories.

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Otherworldly Allure for the iPhone 16 Pro

While some of PITAKA’s cases look to the Earth and the heavens for artistic inspiration, the brand also looks beyond for designs that are out of this world. Partnering with Aries and NoProblemo, these luminous cases for the iPhone 16 Pro add an eerie glow in the dark that makes the phone look hip, modern, and captivating. What’s even more interesting is that this aesthetic is achieved not with paint but with ground-breaking Lumintex fibers that are woven with aramid fibers to provide both strength and style in a single case.

Of course, these alien-like luminous cases don’t skimp on the protection either, while still keeping their ultra-slim and lightweight forms. PITAKA’s Amber Magnet Film technology also ensures compatibility with MagSafe chargers and accessories so that you won’t have to lose the case just to get additional functionality. The unique weaving technique also brings a bit of texture to the case, improving the phone’s grippiness and comfort.

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Protection and Function Unite for the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

The iPhone might be one of the best-selling smartphones in the market, but Samsung isn’t that far behind. Utilizing the same aramid weaving technology, this PinButton case for the Galaxy S24 Ultra provides exceptional strength, lightness, and protection that also look great to boot. Precisely designed and subtle lips protect camera lenses and the screen from scratches, offering protection even for those parts not covered by the case.

What makes this phone extra special are the three buttons on the left side that can be customized to launch any app of your choosing. No more fumbling with menus or the screen, simply click on the button to get instant access to your most important apps. It’s a fun little feature that truly elevates the experience and improves the usefulness of the phone at the same time.

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Portable Productivity for the iPad Pro and iPad Air

The iPad Pro, and later the iPad Air, redefined not only the computer but also what tablets are capable of. They have become true general-purpose devices not just for entertainment or content consumption but also for creation and productivity. It’s only proper that these iPads enjoy the same level of protection that won’t make them look like miniature tanks.

That’s where the PITAKA MagEZ Folio 2 case comes in, providing peace of mind that follows you anywhere. The origami-inspired cover folds in four different ways to let you use the iPad Pro or iPad Air the way you need it. It also holds the Apple Pencil in place so you won’t have to worry about losing it in the chaos of your bag. Protection and style on the go never looked better than this!

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Lightweight Protection with a Magnetic Personality for the iPad Pro

If you’re the type that uses the iPad Pro for typing a lot, then you might prefer the MagEZ Case 2 for the iPad Pro. It’s so slim and lightweight that you might not even notice that it’s there, always protecting your tablet against the accidents of a digital nomad. Best of all, it easily attaches to the Apple Magic Keyboard so you won’t have to choose one or the other when you need to get work done.

Using the same aramid fiber weaving technique that gives PITAKA’s cases their claim to fame, the MagEZ Case 2 provides protection that’s visually appealing and pleasing to the touch. Every aspect of the ultra-slim and lightweight case was designed with meticulous attention to detail, from the wireless charging slot for the Apple Pencil to the subtly raised camera lip that protects the lenses from scratches.

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PITAKA Black Friday Deals: Stylish Protection for All

With the holidays fast approaching, there has never been a better time to grab one or more of PITAKA’s well-designed accessories to protect your gadgets and upgrade your mobile experience. The brand’s Black Friday deals offer the perfect opportunity to buy one for yourself or gift this stylish protection to family and friends. Here are some of the other offers you can take advantage of this season:

• iPhone 16 Phone Cases + Grip 3 or phone Strap Bundle
• iPhone 16 Phone Cases + Grip 2 Bundle
• 30% discount for the Overture & Rhapsody phone case
• Up to 50% off other accessories can be found on ipitaka.com and Amazon

Your peace of mind doesn’t have to come at the expense of your user experience or your wallet. All it takes is creativity, careful design, and the boldness to break through the limits imposed by convention. With PITAKA’s use of advanced weaving technologies and commitment to craftsmanship, you can get protection for your smartphone or iPad that not only looks good but also feels great in your hand.

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The post PITAKA Black Friday Deals: Sleek Protection for iPhone 16 and mobile devices first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smartphones are no longer just technological devices we use to communicate or connect to the Internet. They have become lifestyle choices and fashion statements, reflections of our own personalities. It’s no wonder that there’s a wide variety of smartphone cases that cover different styles, interests, and themes, but a phone that arrives with natural beauty is still a cut above the rest.

No matter how thin or light a protective case may be, it still adds something to the phone, something that could be unnecessary if the phone’s design itself is a sight to behold. The nubia Z70 Ultra promises to deliver a smartphone that looks sleek and sophisticated without cutting corners when it comes to performance, so we take it out for a spin to check for ourselves if it can deliver.

Designer: nubia

Aesthetics

There’s still an ongoing debate on whether curved or flat edges are more “modern” but there’s definitely something fresh about the recent wave of designs that espouse flatness. This kind of aesthetic better fits the minimalism trend that continues to pervade the design world, striving to convey elegance and beauty without embellishments. It espouses clean lines and surfaces, prioritizing essential forms and functions over extravagant features both visual and technical.

The nubia Z70 Ultra tries to embody this design direction, presenting a clean and premium aesthetic that will suit almost anyone’s taste. The flat sides, flat back, and flat display give it a modern and minimalist look devoid of extraneous details. Aside from the camera island, which we’ll get to later, there isn’t a visual element out of place. Even branding is kept to a bare minimum and only in one area.

The color options for the nubia Z70 Ultra also speak to this character of elegance. Gold and black are as premium as you can get without being flashy or dull. And then there’s the Starry Night edition, inspired by the iconic van Gogh painting of the same name. Although it does run in the opposite direction of minimalism, this artful design paints the Z70 Ultra as a canvas for creativity and inspiration.

Most of the time, a smartphone’s screen only comes to play only when actually using the device, but the nubia Z70 Ultra elevates it to the level of a centerpiece. The edge-to-edge display, thanks to the brand’s 7th-generation under-display camera (UDC), is just stunning, even when there’s nothing captivating being shown. It perfectly completes the formula of a clean and modern design, pushing bezels and cutouts out of the way.

The one area where nubia’s claim of a clean and elegant design sort of breaks down is with the cameras. It’s not unattractive, mind, but it’s going to be an acquired taste. Unlike conventional designs that tend to lump the cameras together, the nubia Z70 Ultra spread them apart. This makes the arrangement look more like a classic film camera, which is probably the intention, though it might also look messy to some people.

Ergonomics

With a thickness of 8.6mm and a weight of 228g, the nubia Z70 Ultra is by no means thin and light. Given the hardware it’s packing inside, especially the battery, that’s really no surprise. It does, however, have an impact on your comfort over long periods of time. That said, weight is evenly distributed and the full-width camera bump gives the index finger a natural resting spot. The flat sides also have chamfered edges so they don’t bite into your hand as much as you would think.

The scattered arrangement of the phone’s cameras is a bit deceptive. They’re still sitting on a large block that not only covers almost a third of the phone’s back. Despite that, the nubia Z70 Ultra will still wobble a wee bit when placed on a flat surface because the main camera juts out slightly from the rest of the camera island. Not exactly a deal breaker, especially since most smartphones today wobble that way, but still a bit disappointing given how large that rectangular bump is.

Performance

You’re probably familiar with sayings about how beauty can sometimes be skin-deep, but that’s thankfully not the case for premium smartphones. After all, they have to follow a standard set of components to remain competitive in the market. In that regard, the nubia Z70 Ultra doesn’t break from the mold, arriving as one of the earliest to use the shiny new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. There are different memory configurations available, though the special Starry Night edition only comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

This combination basically means that the nubia Z70 Ultra is definitely no slouch, able to handle anything you throw at it with aplomb. It’s not a gaming smartphone with ridiculous cooling systems, but it definitely gets by with a little warmth in your hands. More importantly, the smartphone is well-prepared to handle a variety of AI-related tasks, from real-time call translation to live captioning to making sure selfies are up to snuff.

As mentioned earlier, the nubia Z70 Ultra’s large 6.85-inch AMOLED screen is one of its biggest selling points, though not just because of how bright and fast it is with a 144Hz refresh rate and 2000 nits of peak brightness. It even has one of the highest rated 2592Hz PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation) dimming advertised to be easier on the eyes. It’s real pull is its edge-to-edge design, made possible by nubia’s under-display camera technology.

You might have heard of, seen, or even used these invisible front-facing cameras, but they haven’t exactly been the popular design their proponents made them out to be years ago. One look at the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold’s pasty selfies shows why it’s a tricky thing to pull off. Fortunately, nubia never gave up on that technology and can now boast a 16MP front-facing camera that’s completely hidden from sight. And unless you really try to look for the lower resolution area above that camera hole, you won’t even notice it’s there.

Given how it features prominently on the back of the phone, the nubia Z70 Ultra’s cameras are definitely a major focus of the product, though not exactly its highlight. It does have a capable 50MP Sony IMX906 sensor, but its biggest feat is the 35mm variable aperture lens that can go from f/1.59 to f/4.0 in 9 steps. This biomimetic design tries to recreate the effect of our own eyes’ irises, adjusting how much light is taken in for more natural shots.

The other two cameras in the set are pretty impressive as well. There’s a 64MP periscope-style telephoto camera with a 70mm focal length, as well as a 50MP ultra-wide shooter with a 13mm equivalent lens. Given the high-quality hardware, it’s not surprising to see equally high-quality shots, filled with details even on an overcast day. Of course, there are also plenty of AI-powered features and enhancements, trying to make up for what small sensors and lenses are lacking.

Part of the nubia Z70 Ultra’s thickness and heft is due to the extra-large 6150 mAh battery inside, one of the biggest capacities in smartphone that’s a little below 7 inches. It supports fast 80W charging to compensate for the large battery size. Unfortunately, it seems that nubia still refuses to give its Ultra flagships wireless charging capabilities, which is a pretty puzzling choice in this day and age.

Sustainability

More elegant designs, premium materials, and powerful hardware often also incur greater material usage as well as waste. The use of virgin plastic, fresh metal, and new glass has a heavy impact on the environment, especially if you’re not taking steps to minimize energy and water consumption. Unfortunately, the nubia Z70 Ultra doesn’t stray from the norm, which leans more toward environment-unfriendly practices and materials.

Where it does shine, however, is its ability to stay with you a lot longer than most other premium flagships. In addition to an IP68 dust and water resistance rating that’s now standard on high-end phones, the nubia Z70 Ultra also boasts IP69 certification, which means it’s safeguarded against high-temperature, high-pressure water, typically sprayed at around 80°C (176°F) with a pressure of up to 100 bar. It’s not an earth-shattering perk, but it still helps protect the product from an untimely demise.

Value

There is clearly a rise in smartphone designs that try to appeal to consumers’ aesthetic tastes more than just technical needs. This industry, fortunately, doesn’t make you choose one or the other, especially on a tier where you’re paying a lot to get the best, both in terms of features as well as design. The nubia Z70 Ultra is definitely a part of that group, presenting a clean and modern design matched with impressive performance.

The catch, as always, is one of availability and reach. nubia is positioning the Z70 Ultra as a global smartphone, but there will be cases where getting your hands on one will still be difficult, like in the carrier-centric US. The sweet starting price of around $640 is quite tempting, though, so it definitely deserves consideration if you’re even in the market for a new phone this year.

Verdict

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but there are always times when the majority seem to agree on a particular standard. Minimalism, for example, is still the ruling aesthetic, and its influence is reaching the smartphone industry as well. From pleasing curves to simple lines, smartphones are shifting away from being a smorgasbord of features to works of art.

The nubia Z70 Ultra perfectly embodies that movement with its clean, modern, and sleek design. It is minimalism at its finest, putting focus on the essentials while displaying sophistication and class through the creative use of colors, materials, and finishes. And it’s quite a powerful device as well, making it a well-balanced option for people looking for an everyday companion that can keep up with their needs while also reflecting their aesthetic tastes.

The post nubia Z70 Ultra Review: Modern Elegance Comes to Smartphones first appeared on Yanko Design.

Although the lithium-ion batteries inside phones and power banks have mostly remained the same, other areas related to batteries and charging have seen significant improvements. Gallium nitride or GaN charging technology, for example, is allowing chargers to be smaller and power banks to be more efficient despite the same battery size. This, in turn, opens the door to more design possibilities, including those that don’t conform to the rectangular convention of most power banks.

Cute branded power banks are not exactly new, but most of them simply lap on some skins or decorations to achieve that effect. Changing the design’s shape can actually do more for less, even without making excessive modifications. This concept, for example, adds a playful flavor to a power bank, figuratively, by mimicking the appearance of a popular treat for people feeling drained and empty, especially under the summer sun.

Designer: Ming Sheng Shih (SHS Shih/Stone Shih)

Conventional power bank designs are practical and practically boring. They often come in different shapes of boxes, whether flat or large. After all, they have to contain rectangular battery packs, but that doesn’t mean the rest of their design has to follow the same shape. If phones themselves are becoming more expressive, why can’t their accessories follow suit?

PoPsic is a concept that bucks that trend by looking nothing like a boring box. It adopts the shape of a popsicle, which is actually also a rectangle with one end curved. For the stick, it uses a somewhat flat and rigid USB-C cable that folds in half to take that form. Both ends of the cable are inserted into the popsicle’s body to maintain that illusion and prevent the cable from dangling away.

Almost like a sticky popsicle, PoPsic attaches to the back of a phone magnetically. If the phone is MagSafe-compatible, then it can already start charging that way. Otherwise, the USB cable offers a more direct and faster route, though the popsicle might not stick to the phone’s back in that case, depending on the design.

PoPsic doesn’t actually offer any new functionality you haven’t seen in other power banks already in the market. The strength of its appeal is, instead, found in its appearance and the emotions it can call up. While most power banks have an air of professionalism, the image of a popsicle never ceases to bring a smile to someone’s face, even those who might not care for eating such a sweet delight.

The post Popsicle-inspired power bank concept is a delicious treat for your phone and your eyes first appeared on Yanko Design.

Realme’s GT series has long been celebrated for delivering a performance-focused flagship. Just three months ago, in July, Realme re-entered the global stage with the launch of the global GT 6, marking its return to the global GT series after a two-year hiatus. Now, Realme is back with the GT 7 Pro, setting new benchmarks in the smartphone industry.

The Realme GT 7 Pro is the first flagship phone equipped with Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset in more than ten markets, including India, Malaysia, Thailand, and Spain. But that is not the only thing going for GT 7 Pro. Beyond its powerful processor, the phone boasts a massive 6,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging, a super-bright display, and a unique underwater photography mode. The Realme GT 7 Pro is undoubtedly a device to be reckoned with. Just how impressive is it? We put it to the test.

Designer: Realme

Aesthetics

The Realme GT 7 Pro is available in two color variants: Mars Orange and Galaxy Grey. The Mars Orange variant, which we received for this review, is uniquely eye-catching. Its matte back panel features a subtle, sand-like pattern that adds depth and texture to the vibrant orange hue, creating a sophisticated and refined appearance.

The bronze-colored side frame with a matte finish complements this bold choice, setting it apart from the trend of subtle, pastel colors. This color option is perfect for those who want their device to make a statement. For those who prefer more subdued tones, the Galaxy Grey option offers classic, minimalist aesthetics.

The design of the GT 7 Pro goes beyond color, emphasizing thoughtful construction and attention to detail. In the top-left corner, a square camera island houses a triple camera setup alongside an LED flash. This island is elegantly positioned on a raised square base, finished in matte orange with shiny edges, providing a striking contrast and sophisticated touch. The “HYPERIMAGE+” branding is subtly placed on the slanted right side of the base.

The cameras are seamlessly integrated into a flat cover, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also makes it easy to clean and maintain, ensuring the back panel remains sleek and uncluttered. Realme also has paid attention to the smallest details, moving the CE marking to the side frame, resulting in a clean and uninterrupted back panel design.

Ergonomics

The Realme GT 7 Pro measures 162.45 x 76.89 x 55mm and weighs 222.8g. While it isn’t the slimmest or lightest device, considering its 6,500mAh battery and large Vapor Chamber, it’s impressive. The slightly curved edges of the back panel and the flat side frame ensure the phone doesn’t dig into your palm. Although the transition from the back panel to the frame is noticeable, it doesn’t significantly impact comfort.

The fingerprint sensor is conveniently located about 1.6 inches or 4cm above the bottom edge of the screen, making it easy to unlock the phone and navigate. However, due to the camera island’s position on the upper left, the phone wobbles slightly when placed on a flat surface. The textured back panel, sleek aluminum frame, and quad-curved display give the phone a premium feel in hand.

Performance

The Realme GT 7 Pro is a powerhouse, driven by the cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, featuring Qualcomm’s 2+6 Oryon CPU and Hexagon NPU. This is complemented by LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, and runs Android 15 out of the box, with realme UI 6.0 on top of it.

As a performance-centric phone, the GT 7 Pro delivers on its promise of an exceptional gaming experience. During intensive gaming sessions, the device only gets slightly warm, never hot, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite’s efficiency and the impressive 11,480mm² Iceberg Vapor Chamber—the largest in its segment according to Realme. Activating GT mode eliminates frame drops and lag, providing a smooth and immersive gaming experience, exemplified by hours of seamless gameplay in titles like Genshin Impact.

The GT 7 Pro’s display is another standout feature. The 6.78-inch Eco² OLED panel, co-developed with Samsung, boasts a 2780×1264 resolution and can reach a peak brightness of 6500 nits (2000 nits in High Brightness Mode and 1000 nits of typical brightness). With a 120Hz refresh rate, 120% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, and HDR10+ support, the display is not only bright and vibrant but also energy-efficient, thanks to 8T LTPO technology. This ensures a visually stunning experience, whether gaming or streaming videos. The stereo speaker delivers ample volume, but the sound quality is underwhelming.

The GT 7 Pro’s 6,500mAh silicon anode battery is impressive, easily lasting a full day of heavy use, including gaming, photography, and video streaming. The 120W fast wired charging is a standout feature, charging from 0 to 50% in just 13 minutes and fully charging in 37 minutes, according to realme.

While it lacks wireless charging, this is a reasonable trade-off given the phone’s large battery, fast charging, and competitive price. Realme includes a 120W charger in the box, allowing users to fully benefit from fast charging without extra cost. This makes the lack of wireless charging less of an issue for most. However, the phone’s USB 2.0 connectivity may disappoint some users as a cost-saving measure.

Main, 1x, 24mm

Telephoto, 3x, 73mm

Telephoto, 6x, 144mm

The rear camera setup includes a 50MP main camera with a Sony IMX 906 sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP ultrawide camera. The main camera captures vibrant images with balanced exposure and dynamic range in daytime and nighttime. The telephoto lens, featuring a Sony IMX 882 sensor, supports 3x optical zoom and up to 120x digital zoom, also offering a macro mode. The telephoto takes pretty good 3x photos with nice details. The ultrawide camera’s performance is less impressive but maintains color consistency with the other lenses.

Main, 1x, 24mm

Ultrawide, 0.6x, 16mm

As for the video, the main and telephoto cameras support up to 4K at 60fps, while the main camera can also record in 8K at 24fps. The video footage from the main and telephoto are generally well-exposed with great stabilization. The front-facing camera is limited to 1080p at 60fps.

Telephoto (Macro), 3x, 73mm

Main, 2x, 49mm

One of the unique features of the GT 7 Pro is its underwater photography mode, enabled by its IP69 and IP68 ratings. While it’s not intended for deep diving, this mode is ideal for activities like swimming and snorkeling, with Realme recommending depths of 0-2 meters for up to 30 minutes.

This feature opens the door to creative underwater shots. I tested it by submerging the phone in a murky pond filled with koi fish. Even though I had to shoot with an awkward arm position and couldn’t clearly see the screen, I was still able to capture sharp, clear images of the fish.

A notable limitation, however, is that once you start recording video, you’re unable to adjust the zoom or switch between the rear and front cameras. Additionally, dual-view video is not supported in underwater mode. It would be great to have these features available while recording.

Another small inconvenience is the alert sound that plays when you exit underwater mode by holding the power button. It can be a bit jarring. Despite these minor issues, the phone performed exceptionally well, delivering impressive results overall.

Powered by its advanced chipset, the Realme GT 7 Pro offers a comprehensive suite of AI features, including AI Sketch to Image, AI Motion Deblur, AI Gaming Super Resolution, and AI Gaming Super Frame. The AI Sketch to Image feature is undoubtedly fun to experiment with. However, its practical applications may vary from user to user, and it remains uncertain how often it will be integrated into daily routines.

The AI Sketch to Image feature allows users to express their creativity in multiple ways. By opening AI Doodle from the side button, you can draw directly on your device or take a photo of your hand-drawn sketch for the AI to transform into a digital masterpiece. Additionally, you can add creative elements to existing photos in your album.

A more practical AI tool for enhancing your photos on GT 7 Pro is AI Motion Deblur. Previously, Realme’s AI Ultra Clarity, introduced with the GT6, focused on sharpening images affected by out-of-focus blur but was limited in addressing motion blur. The GT 7 Pro takes a significant step forward by enabling users to effectively unblur images impacted by motion blur.

This feature targets blur caused by subjects moving in a single-direction motion or from camera shake, addressing one of the most common photography challenges. In my experience with several test photos, the results were mixed. However, when the feature performed well, it successfully salvaged blurry photos without making them look artificially processed or over-edited.

Sustainability

While the Realme GT 7 Pro excels in several areas of durability and longevity, there is no specific information available regarding the use of sustainable materials in its construction. However, the device is built to withstand various environmental challenges, thanks to its IP69 and IP68 certifications. These ratings ensure robust protection against dust and water, allowing users to feel secure against the elements in diverse conditions.

In terms of battery longevity, Realme claims that the GT 7 Pro will maintain more than 80% of its battery health even after four years of use. This focus on battery endurance means users can expect consistent performance over time, reducing the need for frequent replacements and contributing to a more sustainable use of resources.

The GT 7 Pro is supported by a promise of three major OS upgrades and four years of security patches. This level of software support is typical for Android flagship phones from Chinese manufacturers. Overall, while the Realme GT 7 Pro incorporates some elements of sustainability, it remains a step behind leaders in sustainability.

Value

The Realme GT 7 Pro offers a compelling blend of top-notch performance and features at competitive prices. In China, the base model starts at 3,699 CNY (approximately $510 USD) for 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. The top-tier model with 16GB RAM and 1TB storage is priced at 4,799 CNY (around $660 USD).

This is an incredible price for a phone powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, boasting a great display, a massive 6500mAh battery, and a stylish design. If you’re seeking a performance-focused smartphone, the Realme GT 7 Pro offers exceptional value for money.

Verdict

The Realme GT 7 Pro stands out as a strong contender in the smartphone market, particularly for those seeking a performance-driven device at an attractive price point. With its powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, massive 6,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging, and a bright, vibrant display, the GT 7 Pro delivers impressive performance across the board. The attractive pricing further enhances its appeal, making it a compelling choice for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike.

Overall, the Realme GT 7 Pro offers a well-rounded package with exceptional performance, impressive battery life, and beautiful aesthetics. Its value for money is undeniable, especially for those prioritizing cutting-edge performance and massive battery over other features. While it may not lead the pack in mobile imaging, it remains a highly competitive option in its price range, delivering a flagship experience without breaking the bank.

The post Realme GT 7 Pro Review: Flagship Performance Meets Affordability first appeared on Yanko Design.

OPPO is turning up the heat in the flagship arena with the launch of the global version of the OPPO Find X8 series. These premium devices place a major emphasis on camera innovation, with Hasselblad lending its expertise to elevate the photography experience. The Find X8 Pro, in particular, exemplifies OPPO’s partnership with Hasselblad, offering a sophisticated quad-camera system that includes dual-periscope telephoto lenses for unmatched versatility.

Beyond its photographic prowess, the Find X8 Pro delivers impressive performance powered by MediaTek’s latest Dimensity 9400 chipset, complemented by excellent ergonomics for a comfortable user experience. We put the device through its paces to see just how well it performs under various conditions, evaluating its capabilities in real-world scenarios.

Designer: OPPO

Aesthetics

The OPPO Find X8 Pro has undergone a significant design transformation, presenting a more subtle elegance with a less dominant camera island. OPPO has managed to reduce the size and thickness of the camera bump by 40% compared to its predecessor, according to the company. Although the camera bump remains prominent, it is now more streamlined.

The camera island is designed with perfect symmetry, housing four cameras and featuring the Hasselblad H branding at its center. OPPO’s distinctive Cosmos Ring design and the iconic orange dot are also present, paying homage to classic cameras.

Both variants of the Find X8 Pro are sleek and sophisticated, embodying modern design principles. The Space Black model boasts a frosted textured back panel with a matching matte black aluminum frame and a glossy black camera island, creating a seamless and understated look.

The Pearl White variant, inspired by organic beauty, features a unique pearl-like pattern on the back panel that subtly reflects light, complemented by a silver matte frame and a white camera island. This variant captures attention with its elegant and refined appearance. Notably, there is no vegan leather option available for the Find X8 series.

The overall design of the OPPO Find X8 Pro reflects a meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that both color options offer a premium feel and a visually appealing aesthetic.

Ergonomics

The OPPO Find X8 Pro excels in ergonomics, thanks to its thoughtful design and reduced size and weight. With dimensions of 162.27×76.67×8.24 mm for the Space Black variant and 162.27×76.67×8.34 mm for the Pearl White variant, and a weight of 215 grams, the device is not small but manages to avoid feeling massive in hand. This is largely due to its reduced thickness and weight, which contribute to a comfortable grip.

The back panel is slightly curved at all four edges, providing a seamless transition to the frame and enhancing the device’s ergonomics. The slightly curved glass around the edges facilitates smooth swiping, making navigation a breeze. However, the placement of the fingerprint scanner near the bottom edge can make unlocking and operating the phone a bit awkward.

OPPO has reintroduced the alert slider, allowing users to quickly switch between ring, vibrate, and silent modes. Additionally, the Find X8 Pro features a new quick button on the right side, dedicated to camera functions. This capacitive touch button enables rapid camera launch in just 0.4 seconds with a double tap, as well as zooming in and out by sliding your finger and snapping photos in single or burst mode.

The concept of a dedicated camera button is exciting, but my experience with it was a bit of a mixed bag. I’ve had a similar experience with the iPhone 16’s button, which was also less than impressive. OPPO’s quick button is different from the iPhone’s, as it is a capacitive touch button. However, it requires a bit of force to activate, which can make it feel less responsive.

The zooming function sometimes went in the opposite direction of what I intended, though I did notice some improvement after adjusting the pressure sensitivity settings, and I got better with practice. Personally, I still find the dial carousel on the camera UI easier for zooming, but that might just be me. It would be nice if the quick button included features like a two-stage shutter (half-press for focus, full-press for shutter) and some customization options.

Overall, the OPPO Find X8 Pro impressively balances advanced features like its four-camera system with a design that remains sleek and manageable. It’s a testament to OPPO’s engineering that they managed to incorporate such powerful features into a device that remains easy to handle and use. While there are still some areas, like the quick button, that could be refined further, the overall ergonomic design is commendable.

Performance

The OPPO Find X8 Pro is a powerhouse in terms of camera capabilities, boasting an impressive array of hardware and features. It is equipped with four 50MP cameras, including two periscope telephoto lenses, just like the Find X7 Ultra. The phone sports a 32MP camera on its front for selfies.

Main, 1x

Main, 1x, Low Light

Main, 2x Portrait, Low Light

The main camera features a 1/1.4-inch Sony LYT-808 sensor with an f/1.6 aperture and optical image stabilization (OIS). It excels in both well-lit and low-light conditions, capturing photos with vibrant yet natural colors and accurate white balance. The main lens also offers a 2x optical zoom, adding versatility to your photography.

Main, 1x

Telephoto, 3x

Telephoto, 6x

Telephoto, 30x

Telephoto, 60x

Telephoto, 120x

The 3x optical zoom, 73mm-equivalent camera boasts a 1/1.95-inch Sony LYT-600 sensor, an f/2.6 aperture, and OIS. The 6x optical zoom, 135mm-equivalent telephoto camera features a 1/2.51-inch Sony IMX-858 sensor, an f/4.3 aperture, and OIS. Both telephoto lenses deliver detailed, well-exposed (sometimes slightly overexposed) shots with impressive dynamic range across various lighting scenarios.

The ultra-wide camera, featuring a Samsung 5KJN5 sensor with a 1/2.75-inch size and an f/2.0 aperture with autofocus, completes the versatile camera system. While it may be less exciting compared to the other lenses, it performs reliably well.

The portrait mode offers a range of focal lengths, including 23mm, 48mm, 73mm, and 136mm, providing outstanding subject isolation and creamy bokeh at any focal length.

Ultrawide, 0.6x

Macro, 3x

Portrait, 73mm

The device can record 4K 60fps Dolby Vision video on all cameras, including the front-facing one. Videos from the rear cameras are well-exposed, featuring vibrant colors and smooth transitions between lenses.

The OPPO Find X8 Pro features a stunning 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering a resolution of 2780×1264 and a pixel density of 450 PPI. With a peak brightness of 4500 nits, the display is exceptionally bright, fluid, and vibrant, making it perfect for viewing content in any lighting condition. The inclusion of 2160Hz PWM dimming ensures comfortable viewing by reducing flicker, even at low brightness levels.

Under the hood, the Find X8 Pro is powered by the latest MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipset, paired with either 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM. Storage options range from 256GB to 1TB of UFS 4.0, providing ample space and speed for all your apps and media. The phone can handle demanding workloads effortlessly, including intensive gaming sessions and multitasking.

Running on ColorOS 15 atop Android 15, the Find X8 Pro offers a smooth and intuitive user experience. As expected from a 2024 flagship, it includes a suite of AI features, such as AI Studio and AI Reflection Remover. While testing the AI Reflection Remover, results were a bit hit or miss; however, this feature holds promise and could become incredibly useful as it becomes more sophisticated.

ColorOS 15 also introduces Touch to Share, enabling simple file transfers between the Find X8 Pro and iOS devices via NFC. This feature, which requires the O+ Connect app on iOS, will be available in a future update.

The phone is equipped with a robust 5910mAh silicon-carbon battery, supporting 80W wired fast charging and 50W wireless charging. Additionally, the device offers 10W reverse wireless charging, allowing you to power other gadgets on the go. Battery life is impressive, typically lasting a full day of heavy use without the need for a recharge.

Sustainability

With environmental responsibility becoming more critical these days, the sustainability of tech products is increasingly scrutinized. The OPPO Find X8 Pro, while impressive in its technological prowess, has room for improvement in its ecological impact. Constructed with reinforced glass and hardy aluminum alloy the device offers durability, and its IP68 and IP69 ratings provide robust protection against dust and water, further extending its lifespan.

However, by adopting a more proactive approach to sustainability, such as incorporating recycled materials and enhancing repairability, OPPO could significantly boost the Find X8 Pro’s appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

Value

In the Chinese market, the OPPO Find X8 Pro offers a compelling value proposition with its impressive specifications and features. The base model, featuring 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, is priced at CNY 5,299 (approximately 735 USD), while the higher-end model with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage is available for CNY 6,499 (approximately 900 USD).

At a similar price point, the Xiaomi 15 Pro presents itself as a competitive alternative. Meanwhile, the Vivo X200 Pro is positioned as a slightly more budget-friendly option within the premium smartphone segment.

Although pricing for markets outside of China is not available at the time of writing, OPPO’s strategy in its home market suggests an intent to deliver high-end performance and features at an accessible price point.

The Find X8 Pro distinguishes itself from competitors with unique selling points such as a sophisticated quad-camera system that includes dual-periscope telephoto lenses, providing unparalleled versatility in photography. Additionally, the device features a quick button for rapid camera access and an action button designed to enhance user interaction and convenience.

Verdict

The OPPO Find X8 Pro is a standout in the flagship smartphone market, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology and elegant design. Its camera system, developed in collaboration with Hasselblad, provides exceptional versatility and quality, making it a top choice for photography enthusiasts. The device’s performance and ergonomics are equally impressive, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable user experience. While there are areas for improvement, such as the quick button functionality, the Find X8 Pro remains a compelling option for those seeking a premium smartphone with a strong emphasis on photography and performance.

The post Oppo Find X8 Pro Review: Powerful Quad-Camera, Now with a Slimmer Profile first appeared on Yanko Design.

The year is almost over but OPPO is far from done. Aiming to end the year with a bang, the brand has taken the veils off the OPPO Find X8 and the OPPO Find X8 Pro, putting a heavy emphasis on photography chops. Of course, there’s plenty of AI to go around, as well as the computing power necessary to support those features.

The late 2024 models, however, might feel a little iterative, at least if you simply read the specs and feature list. As they say, however, don’t judge a book by its cover, or in this case its technical details, so we dive in to test if you will “Find” some unexpected treasures where “X” marks the spot, terrible puns totally intended.

Designer: OPPO

Aesthetics

Although the basic structure of the OPPO Find X8 doesn’t deviate too much from its predecessor, you can immediately see and feel its more refined personality. If the Find X6 and X7 were toddlers and teens breaking new ground, the Find X8 has the air of a young professional establishing its presence.

Part of that sleeker and more mature charm is its thin body, only 7.85mm without the camera bump. Granted, it’s not the thinnest phone around, but the flat sides, contoured edges, and thin bezels around the screen all contribute to making it look more modern and elegant. It can definitely meet the demand for sophisticated and luxurious designs among today’s discerning consumers.

The biggest contributing factor, however, is the refined Cosmos Ring camera design. It’s no longer unusual to see circular camera bumps on smartphones, but few manage to get it right, including previous Find X designs. With the OPPO Find X8, however, the company managed to pull off a seemingly magical feat of making it incredibly thin, only 3.01mm. No longer will camera bumps look like obscene moles and just gently blend into the rest of the phone’s equally stylish rear.

The cameras themselves are also arranged in a more symmetrical manner, no longer an eyesore that will trigger one’s aesthetic sensibilities. There’s still a periscope-style telephoto camera hiding there, so it’s not sacrificing any functionality with its improved style. It seems that OPPO has finally got it right this time around, and hopefully, it will keep refining its design language for future Find X models.

Ergonomics

The OPPO Find X8’s thin profile comes with another benefit. At only 193g, it’s quite a light object, nesting comfortably in your hand. There’s still some debate over the ergonomics of rounded versus flat sides, but in this swing of the pendulum, the pro-flat faction seems to have won. Thankfully, that also seems to be the case in this case.

The Cosmic Ring camera design also brings its own added value. Since the large circle is located in the middle of the phone, the weight is more evenly distributed across the phone’s width. There’s no wobble when you put it down on a flat surface, and it isn’t as top heavy as other phones that cram all that hardware to a corner. Your index finger also rests gently on the edge of the textured ring, adding to the confidence of your grip.

The Find X8’s comfort extends beyond your touch. It has a screen that boasts extremely high-frequency PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) dimming at 3840Hz, which helps reduce the strain on one’s eyes. Given how much we use our phones even in the dark, that’s no small benefit. It’s not going to beat E Ink displays, of course, but those can never replace the vibrant colors and fast refresh speeds of regular displays.

Performance

While there has been a lot of media buzz around Qualcomm’s shiny new Snapdragon 8 Elite, OPPO went with the someone unusual choice of putting the equally new MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chip inside both the Find X8 as well as the Find X8 Pro. To be fair, the performance gap between these two giants of the mobile processor industry has narrowed over the past years, and MediaTek offers a competitive and accessible alternative to Qualcomm’s pricey products.

That can be seen in the OPPO Find X8, which doesn’t choke on the most grueling tasks, including mobile gaming. The new ColorOS 15, with its fancier graphics, animation, and AI features, performs smooth as butter, owing to the Dimensity 9400’s capabilities. There will definitely be cases where benchmark numbers will show it lagging behind the Snapdragon 8 Elite, but most people won’t feel the difference in everyday use.

The OPPO Find X8 has a bright and colorful 6.59-inch screen with bezels only 1.45mm wide on all sides, bidding goodbye to the notorious “chin” of yesteryears. In addition to the eye-friendly PWM dimming mentioned earlier, it also has a pixel-dense 1.5K resolution, a fast and adaptable 120Hz refresh rate for fluid videos and games, and ProXDR support for gorgeous visuals. Suffice it to say, it really puts your content front and center.

Of course, as a member of the Find X family, the main course for this smartphone is the camera system. Going with a triple 50MP setup, which miraculously fits in that thin ring, reduces the jarring change between wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto cameras. Of course, there are still differences in focal length, but the quality is more or less on equal footing.

The main 50MP Sonly LYT700 comes with a 24mm equivalent focal length and takes rather great photos even in overcast weather. It can support at least up to 2x zoom on its own, but you’ll really want to switch to the 50MP Sony LYT600 and its periscope telephoto lens for getting up close and personal. It supports 3x optical zoom, and you can even extend that to 10x with some help from the AI Telescope Zoom feature. Unfortunately, even at 3x, you will start to see some loss in detail under more difficult lighting situations.

The 50MP Samsung JN5 ultra-wide camera has a rather narrow 15mm focal length. That means less distortion around the edges, but also not as wide as other ultra-wide cameras on other phones. There’s also an inconsistency in brightness and white balance compared to the main camera, but that’s not unusual because of its smaller f/2.0 aperture. Regardless, the OPPO Find X8 delivers decent shots with every click, which is quite impressive when you consider how thin it is.

It would be remiss not to mention the other aspects of mobile photography that don’t rely on the hardware only. Like previous OPPO flagships, the partnership with Hasselblad yields special portrait modes that try to recreate the brand’s famed cameras through some software tweaking. There is also an abundance of AI-powered features for tweaking and improving photos, especially when filling in the gaps that can’t be captured by the sensors. There’s also a “Lightning Snap” feature that’s pretty much an AI-assisted burst mode to help with fast-moving cars and kids.

Powering all these features is a large 5,630mAh battery, definitely one of the largest for this phone size. To complement that size, OPPO has equipped the Find X8 with fast 80W SuperVOOC wired charging, which is admittedly just a little bit slower than the previous-gen 100W speed. It does support fast 50W AirVOOC wireless charging, though you’ll naturally need to use OPPO’s proprietary accessories for that.

Long story short, the OPPO Find X8 offers a well-balanced set of features that will delight hobbyist photographers and everyday users. There’s no shortage of AI buzz as well, including integration with Google Gemini and the now popular Circle to Search feature. That said, people are still coming to terms with what AI can do for them on their phones, so these are definitely not killer features for this generation.

Sustainability

OPPO is one of the few major phone brands that has a very strong sustainability program to reduce their negative impact on the environment. Unfortunately, that’s not directly seen here on the Find X8, at least not when it comes to using sustainable materials like recycled plastic or metal. Packaging size has indeed been reduced, but that’s pretty much it. It does ship with a charger, which you’ll really need since it uses a proprietary fast-charging technology.

Where the OPPO Find X8 does shine in this regard is its durability and longevity. It goes beyond the expected IP68 dust and water resistance rating and is actually certified for IP69, protecting it against sprays of water up to 80°C in temperature. It also has an MGJB 150.18A MIL-STD rating for shock protection and Swiss SGS certification for whole-phone drops. In other words, it is designed to last for a long time, at least under regular wear and tear, delaying any need to throw it away for a new unit.

Value

The OPPO Find X8 represents maturity in terms of design and function. It is now more elegant, more symmetrical, and more stylish while keeping the good things that OPPO fans have enjoyed for years. While there might be some inconsistency with camera output, it’s definitely no slouch in that area. It offers a solid contender in the smartphone market that could stand proud against other giants in the market.

The Find X8’s biggest rival, however, isn’t those brands. Ironically, it’s the Find X8 Pro itself that makes the non-Pro model a harder sell. It has nearly identical specs, just better and larger, and a fourth 50MP camera that tries to reach farther. The Find X8 starts at 4,199 RMB, roughly $580, which isn’t that far from the Find X8 Pro’s 5,299 ($730) starting price tag, both with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. At the moment, there is also no word yet on international distribution, which further diminishes the phone’s value in the global market.

Verdict

There’s no stopping the development of more powerful smartphones and more component smartphone cameras, but manufacturers always have to consider the effects these would have on a phone’s design. Some brands don’t really seem to care, opting to just cram as much power they can in the hopes that buyers would overlook the visible warts. Others, on the other hand, prioritize good looks even if it means cutting corners in terms of overall value.

Striking a balance between form and function in smartphones is definitely easy, but the OPPO Find X8 proves that it’s not impossible. After a few iterations, OPPO has managed to shrink not just the phone’s buddy but also that tricky camera bump down to something more aesthetic yet still very powerful. As a brand very conscious of product design, we’re hoping OPPO continues on this path, blazing a trail for others to envy and then follow.

The post OPPO Find X8 Review: Slim, Sleek, and Subtle first appeared on Yanko Design.

PROS:

• More elegant, minimalist, and mature design


• AniMe Vision display and AniMe Play features add a unique charm


• Unbeatable performance and cooling system


• Decent cameras for a gaming-centric smartphone

CONS:

• Incremental upgrades only over the previous generation


• 13MP ultra-wide camera feels a bit dated

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro offers great value, balancing advanced gaming features with an elegant and mature design.

Mobile gaming remains a lucrative industry, with millions of gamers worldwide seeking the best devices to enhance their gaming experience. However, as mainstream smartphones improve their performance, the allure of dedicated gaming phones has diminished. Yet, a niche market persists for devices specifically designed for gaming enthusiasts. The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro emerges as a contender in this space, promising speed and flair. But does it meet the expectations of pro gamers?

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro launches at a rather critical time for gaming smartphones and it seeks to carve out its niche by offering features tailored to gaming. Packed with high-performance specs and unique design elements, it targets those who demand more from their mobile devices. This review delves into whether the ROG Phone 9 Pro truly delivers on its promises and whether you should upgrade from the brand’s previous model if you already have it in your hands.

Designer: ASUS Republic of Gamers

Aesthetics

Just like its predecessor, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro’s design marks steps away from the overtly flashy aesthetics typical of gaming phones. It adopts a minimalist approach that exudes maturity, appealing to both gamers and non-gamers. The geometric camera bump and off-center design elements subtly nod to its gaming roots, maintaining a distinct identity.

The back cover, crafted from a single piece of glass, showcases precision etching for added texture. This design choice not only enhances the phone’s visual appeal but also provides a tactile experience. The matte finish employs a crystalized nano-texture, ensuring a silky touch while resisting fingerprints, keeping the device pristine.

A standout feature for gamers is the AniMe Vision display that gives the smartphone a unique flair. The ROG Phone 9 Pro model utilizes 648 mini-LEDs to display icons, text, and even GIF animations, adding a dynamic element to the phone. Hidden animations can be unlocked when two ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro devices are near, using NFC technology, offering a novel interactive experience that creates a community of ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro owners.

Exclusive to the Pro model as well, the AniMe Play feature brings retro mini-games to the AniMe Vision display, further emphasizing the phone’s gaming focus. This playful addition caters to gamers seeking entertainment beyond traditional mobile games, enhancing the device’s appeal. Overall, the design balances sophistication with gaming-centric elements.

Ergonomics

Despite its large 6.78-inch display, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is designed for comfort. The textured finish provides a secure grip, making it easier to hold during long gaming sessions. This ergonomic consideration is crucial for gamers who prioritize comfort and usability.

However, the phone’s thickness, primarily due to its substantial battery, might be a drawback for some users. While it ensures extended gaming sessions, it adds bulk to the device. Balancing battery life with portability remains a challenge in gaming phone design.

The dual USB-C ports are a thoughtful addition, allowing users to charge the device without interrupting gameplay. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers who engage in prolonged sessions, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply. Such practical design choices demonstrate ASUS’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience.

Performance

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is a powerhouse, boasting the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Coupled with 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage in the Pro Edition, it ensures high-performance gaming and multitasking capabilities. This setup positions it not only as a formidable contender in the gaming phone market but also as a reliable everyday mobile device.

The GameCool thermal management system effectively dissipates heat, preventing build-up and ensuring sustained performance. This feature is crucial for maintaining optimal performance during intense gaming sessions, where overheating can be a concern. If you need even more cooling, the Pro Edition ships with the AeroActive Cooler X Pro which enhances cooling with a Pelter chip for passive cooling and larger fans for active cooling. It also includes physical left and right buttons, providing additional functionality similar to popular game controllers.

The 2400×1080 6.78-inch AMOLED display offers vibrant colors and exceptional brightness. It also comes with a 2400×1080 resolution and a 185Hz refresh rate that’s boasted to be the highest on a phone. This display quality elevates the gaming experience, providing immersive visuals. The phone’s performance is further enhanced by AI features, including automatic item pickup and moment recording. That said, these AI features are limited to a few titles like Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail, and Mobile Legends Bang Bang so they might not be generally useful.

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is equipped with a robust 5,800 mAh battery, ensuring extended gaming sessions without frequent recharges. It supports fast 65W charging and can go from zero to full in less than 50 minutes, a boon for gamers on the go. Additionally, the phone offers 15W wireless charging, providing convenient and flexible power options to suit various user needs.

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro surprises with its competent camera system, featuring a 50MP Sony Lytia 700 sensor at the helm. This primary camera delivers detailed images, a pleasant surprise for a device primarily focused on gaming. It challenges the notion that gaming phones must compromise on camera quality.

The 32MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom and 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens provide versatility in photography. While not extraordinary, they offer decent performance for everyday use. This well-rounded camera setup adds value to the phone, catering to users who appreciate photography.

Features like Photo Vibe enhance the photography experience, offering color and temperature presets. AI Object Sense provides auto-correction, optimizing photos based on scene elements. The AirTrigger Capture function utilizes the same capacitive side buttons used for gaming as a dedicated shutter button, adding a unique touch to mobile photography. The ROG Phone 9 Pro is not a pro camera phone by a long shot, but this powerful camera system at least adds to its versatility and usefulness outside of games.

Sustainability

In terms of sustainability, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro follows the conventional smartphone formula, utilizing plastic, metal, and glass. Unfortunately, it does not incorporate recycled materials, a growing trend in the industry. However, it boasts an IP68 dust and water resistance rating, enhancing its durability and longevity.

While sustainability may not be its strongest suit, the phone’s robust build quality ensures it can withstand everyday challenges. This aspect is crucial for gamers who demand reliability and resilience from their devices, particularly during intense gaming sessions.

Value

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro offers impressive performance and a suite of features tailored for professional mobile gaming. Its beautiful screen and additional side charging port are standout features. These elements cater to gamers seeking a device that prioritizes performance and practicality.

However, for existing ROG Phone 8 Pro users, the upgrades may seem incremental, providing little incentive to switch. This aspect may affect its appeal to loyal ASUS customers seeking significant improvements. Nonetheless, the ROG Phone 9 Pro remains a compelling choice for new buyers.

Despite the incremental upgrades, the ROG Phone 9 Pro represents good value for those seeking a dedicated gaming phone. It combines high-end specifications with thoughtful design elements, appealing to gamers who value not only performance but also aesthetics. The phone’s value proposition lies in its specialized features, from ROG’s famous Armory Crate to the phone’s invisible AirTrigger buttons. Even the animated AniMe Vision display is a treat for mobile gamers who want to brag about their gear.

Verdict

Gaming smartphones are evolving, adopting more refined designs while maintaining their core gaming features. However, with regular flagship phones matching their performance, the reasons to invest in a dedicated gaming device are dwindling. Nevertheless, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro continues to offer great value, balancing advanced features with a mature design.

For gamers who demand the best, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro stands out as a worthy contender. It combines speed, style, and substance, making it a compelling choice for those who want a device tailored to their gaming needs. Despite the shrinking market for gaming phones, ASUS’s offering remains a testament to innovation in the mobile gaming arena.

The post ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Review: The Ultimate Gaming Smartphone Experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

This year’s been exhausting, hasn’t it?! Especially the last few weeks have been emotionally and mentally draining, and it isn’t just the news, but more specifically, it’s the information overload we’ve been subjected to. Even for a device small enough to fit in our pockets, the smartphone is capable of creating a lot of ‘noise’ in the form of news, texts, calls, notifications, ads, and a lot of data clutter that can overwhelm our brains. This data clutter and relentless bombardment of information is what led to the creation of the Mudita Kompakt, a phone that prioritizes mindful living over doomscrolling.

Created by the minds behind CD Projekt (think The Witcher, Cyberpunk 2077), Mudita Kompakt reflects co-founder Michał Kiciński’s personal journey toward a more balanced life. After years in the gaming industry, where endless connection was the norm, he sought a solution to keep people both connected and grounded. That drive led to Mudita’s mission to design devices that encourage simplicity, privacy, and a conscious digital experience.

Designer: Mudita

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The Mudita Kompakt keeps things refreshingly simple. Its 4.3-inch E Ink display is easy on the eyes and demands very little power. That’s right—this phone’s battery can last up to six days, which, in today’s daily-charging world, feels almost revolutionary. Inside, it packs a quad-core MediaTek processor, 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage (expandable via memory card). Sure, these aren’t flagship specs, but that’s really not the point. It’s all about cutting the clutter and retaining only the things that ‘spark joy’ here. Mudita keeps it lean, pre-loading only the most basic apps like phone, SMS, a calculator, and a voice recorder—none of those attention-demanding apps or bloatware that love to ping you at all hours.

For a phone, the Mudita Kompakt offers dual-SIM capabilities, with 4G LTE compatibility. You can make and receive calls on either SIM and even make/receive VoLTE or Wi-Fi calls, offering connectivity without much of a compromise. Given its entire premise is to stay disconnected from the clutter of the internet, it clearly doesn’t come with 5G, but that’s more of a feature than a bug, truth be told. There’s even support for eSIMs, which is perfect for carriers that don’t traditionally offer SIM cards.

For a phone that strives to be different from the status quo, it still makes a conscious effort to retain features that are cutting-edge… only if they matter to Mudita’s overarching ethos. You may not have a flashy screen and 5G connectivity, but the Kompakt DOES come with a fingerprint sensor to unlock your phone, ensuring biometric-grade security feels reassuring. Surprisingly enough, the phone comes with NFC support too, allowing you to use existing NFC tags around the house, as well as ensuring future compatibility with NFC-ready apps that Mudita may introduce down the road.

What’s remarkable about the Kompakt is its genuine intent to keep users focused on the real world, not the screen. It features an Offline+ mode activated by a physical switch, cutting off cell networks, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, and even disabling the mics and camera for a true offline experience. Think of it as Airplane Mode on steroids, with no features that cause you to linger on your phone for too long. You can read existing messages (you won’t receive new ones), browse through your gallery, or listen to music without any distractions. All these actions have heavy intent behind them, so you’re less likely to end up in a doomscrolling spiral.

Tailored for E Ink®

On the design front, the Mudita Kompakt feels compact, sturdy, and unassuming. It boasts an IP54 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and splashes, so it can hold up to daily wear without needing a bulky case. While it does include a modest 8MP camera, this isn’t about capturing every detail of your day—just the moments you truly want to remember. Photos get displayed in greyscale on your E Ink display, adding a rather retro touch to your photography chops. And for the rare occasion you need to recharge, it’s conveniently equipped with wireless charging and a USB-C port, keeping up with modern conveniences.

The Kompakt’s software is built on a custom OS based on the Android Open Source Project. The twist? There’s no Google lurking in the background, collecting data. Mudita promises three years of software updates to keep things smooth, even though this isn’t the kind of phone that’ll be weighed down by big updates. That’s another angle to the Kompakt’s appeal: minimal fuss, minimal distraction, and maximum control over what you interact with.

Of course, going minimalist does have its trade-offs. There’s no Google Play Store here, so you won’t find a wide selection of apps. Mudita provides basic offline maps, a music player, and a few utilities like a meditation timer, voice recorder, an e-reader, and even a chess app that promises you won’t find yourself getting bored. You can, however, sideload other Android apps, although compatibility isn’t guaranteed. For those of us used to feature-packed smartphones, adjusting to a stripped-down OS could be tricky. But that’s the appeal—it’s a purposeful move away from digital noise, offering just enough functionality to meet core needs without temptations. A true digital detox, if you will.

Another perk of the Kompakt is privacy. Since it doesn’t sync with most cloud services, your data stays on your device. Sure, it may feel a bit old-fashioned to manage contacts and files through Mudita’s desktop app, but for privacy-minded users, this setup grants peace of mind. It’s a minor detour to ditch the endless cloud syncs and data-hungry services tracking your every move. The Kompakt is available starting at $316 for early adopters, with a 14-day money-back guarantee just in case the Kompakt feels like too much of a culture shock. Mudita offers Global and North American versions of the Kompakt, so it’s compatible with networks worldwide. Just don’t expect it to work everywhere yet—currently, it’s only shipping to select countries in Europe, the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Oh, and just in case you were wondering… it has a 3.5mm audio jack!

Click Here to Buy Now: $316 $465 (32% off). Hurry, only 2/900 left! Raised over $336,000.

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It’s been a while since the Pro line of the iPhone’s seen any significant change. In fact, the 14, 15, and 16 Pro all look fairly identical, with the same 3-lens camera bump at the back, and the dynamic island on the front. It’s time the iPhone 17 Pro showcased a new aesthetic, and this concept does that. The first-ever iPhone to have FOUR main cameras, this bad-boy locks horns with the Galaxy S24 Ultra in the photography department. As a result of this addition, the camera layout sees its biggest change in years (ever since the iPhone 11 Pro), hinting at a new era for the Apple smartphone’s Pro line.

Designer: ADR Studio

This iPhone 17 Pro Max concept comes from the mind of Antonio de Rosa, an established concept artist who’s worked on a few remarkable concepts before (like these Jobs-inspired AR glasses). Built around the rumor of an ‘iPhone Slim’ that made its way around this year, the iPhone 17 Pro Max ushers an age of ‘Thinnovation’, where the smart device offers a sleek, no-compromise experience.

Given it’s a part of the iPhone’s Pro line, the 17 Pro Max concept has a titanium frame (with a glass back that supports wireless charging). It comes in 5 colors, has USB-C charging (obviously), and measures a mere o.7 centimeters thick, even with the camera bump… making it venture into iPad Pro thinness territory.

The most notable change in this phone’s design comes in the form of its main camera layout. Deviating from the triple-lens-in-a-square-bump setup that the iPhone has religiously stuck to for years, this one feels… well, different. It’s asymmetric, which sort of feels like an absolute non-starter since Apple has a blood-bond with symmetry in their designs.

Regardless of that oversight, this camera setup includes a dual-lens array on the extreme left, followed by a 7X telephoto mammoth of a lens right beside it. Below that, lies a small Macro camera that powers the iPhone’s Super Macro vision, and the flashlight. Look a little carefully between the two left-hand cameras and you’ll see a LiDAR sensor hiding in plain sight too.

ADR Studio dubs the screen as the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s ‘Ultra Retina’ display, capable of better clarity and higher brightness than its predecessors. Although not fairly noticeable, the screen also comes with a much smaller dynamic island that houses all the FaceID tech and the front-facing camera in a 15% smaller piece of real estate.

The Action Button finds a place on the 17 Pro Max, following its announcement this year. ADR Studio envisions the camera will also have AI features built into it, following Apple’s rollout of Apple Intelligence this year. All this gets powered by the A19 Pro chip, designed to take Apple Intelligence to the next logical step.

ADR Studio’s iPhone 17 Pro Max is merely a concept for now (I’m not sure if we even have any credible rumors to work with this early), and chances are we’ll get a clearer picture just before WWDC next year. Personally, the phone seems wonderfully designed (that YouTube snippet is produced remarkably well, using AI image and video clips) and the feature quilt (below) detailed fairly well. It’s just the camera bump for me. Maybe a more symmetric bump would be much more in line with Apple’s design philosophy.

For now, we’re waiting for the new iPhone SE to drop. Rumor has it the phone will be announced sometime in January, probably with newer AirPods, HomePods, and hopefully an M4 MacBook Air. The iPhone SE will allegedly be the most affordable iPhone to have Apple Intelligence built in.

The post iPhone 17 Pro Max Concept showcases a MAJOR change to the Camera Layout first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smartphones today are very complex products, which is why manufacturers have long discouraged or even disallowed owners from opening up theirs just to repair a single part. Most people probably don’t have the skills for that anyway, but the old policies also prevented small third-party businesses from offering more accessible repair services. That has been changing slowly, with more major phone makers finally allowing self-repair to some extent.

Of course, that all hinges on the availability of replacement parts, which isn’t that easy to come by when it comes to official components. Fortunately, the likes of Google have partnered with iFixit to actually sell the most critical parts, opening the doors further to self-repair or third-party services. That includes the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold, though the replacement foldable screen might still be beyond most people’s reach.

Designer: Google, iFixit

A foldable phone probably has the most complex design among smartphones today, especially because of its flexible display panel. Unfortunately, that is probably the component that will break faster, which means it will be the one that will get replaced more often. Even more unfortunately, it’s also one of the most expensive parts of the phone.

The official Pixel 9 Pro Fold replacement screen being sold on iFixit is a prime example of that. Now available for anyone to purchase, the foldable screen alone costs $1,199.99. If it’s your first iFixit self-repair, you might want to buy the screen and a repair kit, setting you back $1,206.99 in total. It’s an eye-watering price tag, especially when you consider that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold itself already costs $1,799.

It doesn’t help that the process for repairing the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is, as expected, a bit convoluted and nerve-wracking for novices. Then again, that isn’t too surprising, given the young age of the technology and the rarity of available parts. Most owners probably won’t do the process themselves but iFixit and Google’s partnership will allow small businesses to thrive making repairs for these devices.

Despite those rather large hurdles, it’s still a significant step forward in making smartphones longer-lasting and more sustainable. There will be more options to get the Pixel 9 Pro Fold repaired, even if they’re pricey. It’s definitely a much better situation compared to the past where even opening up a smartphone on your own marks you for some legal trouble.

The post Pixel 9 Pro Fold replacement screen from iFixit arrives with a big caveat first appeared on Yanko Design.