Galaxy S25 Series Becomes World’s First To Officially Support Qi 2.1 And 15W Charging Speeds
Samsung has just released the S25 Series with Qi 2.1 wireless charging technology. Although that’s an upgrade, the charging speed is still the same. Let’s break it down for you and why Samsung is different this time with wireless charging. Qi 2.1: First for S25 Series WPC confirmed that the first devices to have Qi 2.1 are Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra. Although that’s a big deal, there’s no built-in magnets like MagSafe like accessories. Funny enough, the S25 series is one of the few Android phones that supports Qi 2.0.0 or higher along with HMD Skyline. Most Android phones including the recent ones are using the older Qi 1.3.3 standard. What Does Qi 2.1 Mean for Users? Samsung is moving to Qi 2.1 which may not give immediate benefits but will prepare for future updates. This new version of the Qi standard was announced at CES 2025 and it has an innovation called “Qi2 Ready”. This allows manufacturers to move magnets from inside the phone to external accessories like cases instead of built-in magnetic components. In short, while the S25 series doesn’t have built-in magnets, you can still get the benefits of these new Qi2 and MagSafe cases by using an official magnet-equipped case from Samsung or third-party manufacturers. Samsung didn’t increase the wireless charging speed despite the new Qi standard. According to WPC, S25 series can only do 15W wireless charging which is the same as previous Samsung flagships. No Boost in Charging Speed You won’t get faster charging speed even with the magnetic alignment of Qi2 accessories. The limitation is not just Samsung’, Apple’s iPhone 16 series is listed to have 15W max wireless charging speed but can go up to 25W using certain accessories. Samsung had listed multiple magnetic wireless charging accessories on their website which are now removed. None of those accessories mentioned 25W wireless charging support for S25 series so users are wondering if faster charging speed is still possible in the future. Is Qi 2.1 Worth It? While S25 series is the first to have Qi 2.1, real world benefits of this tech is limited for now. Samsung is going for accessory compatibility rather than faster charging. For those who often use wireless charging and MagSafe like accessories, official Samsung magnet cases might be useful. But for those who are waiting for faster charging speed in wireless charging might be disappointed. Only time will tell if Samsung will bring faster charging speed through software updates or new accessories as the industry moves to Qi2 and beyond. Until then, S25’s Qi 2.1 is more about future proofing than immediate performance gain. Via
Google Pixel 9a Is Getting A Price Hike
It is without saying that mid-range A-series smartphones from Google have always hogged the headlines for bringing in more premium features to the budget-friendly segment. And now, when the flagship Pixel 9 series is already here, all eyes are on its upcoming cousin, the Pixel 9a. Leaks offer exciting insights into its pricing, design, and features. Pricing Details According to reports by Android Headlines, the Pixel 9a will keep a similar price as its predecessor, the Pixel 8a. It will start from $499 for the base variant with 128GB of storage, while the model with 256GB will be priced at $599. Comparison The Pixel 8a was $559 for the 256GB model, so the larger storage option of the Pixel 9a will be $40 more. Still, the base option remains at $499 to keep things in budget for budget conscious buyers. Design and Build Updates Leaked renders suggest some serious design revamp for the Pixel 9a: first and foremost, Google appears to kill the signature camera bar in favor of a flush camera module that sits seamlessly with the phone’s back. That would make it not only look more modern but also sleeker. Other design highlights include: A flat screen with rounded edges. Metal rails surrounding the frame add a more premium touch to the device. Design language is carried from the Pixel 9 flagship series. Improved Display and Performance Pixel 9a will reportedly pack in a 6.285-inch display, with very high peak brightness of around 2,700 nits, which is quite higher than that on the previous A-series models. Under the hood, the phone is tipped to pack the Tensor G4 processor, the same chip found in the Pixel 9 series. However, it may use the older Exynos Modem 5300, which could slightly affect connectivity performance. Battery and Charging The battery life of any smartphone is very crucial, and it seems that the Pixel 9a is ready to raise the bar. If rumors are to be believed, it will boast a mammoth 5,100 mAh battery-the biggest on any Pixel device. Additionally, there’s rumor of 23W charging, meaning users will see improved endurance and quicker recharge times compared to its predecessor. Early Launch Speculation One leak in particular is really surprising, where it suggests that Google could release the Pixel 9a sooner than expected, namely in mid-March of 2025. This might just fit with what has been their recent trend, as with the Pixel 9 series, and an anticipated update to Android 16. Conclusion The Pixel 9a is promising some serious upgrades in design, display, and battery life without a significant increase in price. While the higher storage model will be a bit pricier, the base model is priced at $499 to keep the device competitive in the mid-range segment. The highly expected launch may very well make the Pixel 9a one of the most interesting releases of 2025 for all smartphone fans. Source & Images: Android Headlines
iPhone SE 4 Dummy Shows Similar Design As The iPhone 16
Apple is getting ready to launch the much expected iPhone SE 4, and rumors and leaks have painted a picture of an affordable phone with premium features. Earlier, there was a thought that it would look similar to the iPhone 14, but the latest buzz says it will be more like an iPhone 16, even offering a Dynamic Island. Here’s what we know so far. Design: Old Melds with New There have been reports that the design elements of the iPhone SE 4 will be carried over from the iPhone 16, though a bit smaller with a 6.1-inch display. The leaked images and dummy units suggest a very similar form factor as the iPhone 16, with some major differences. And one of the more striking design modifications is a thicker camera ring: Where the higher-end models feature either dual or triple-camera setups, the SE 4 uses a single rear camera. This lens sticks out somewhat uncomfortably compared to the camera bump on the iPhone 16. While the glass plateau surrounding the cameras on the iPhone 16 is slightly raised, for example, the SE 4 employs a simpler enclosure, which may partially explain the pronounced thickness of this lens. Dynamic Island: Game-Changer for the SE Lineup? One of the most exciting rumors surrounding the iPhone SE 4 involves the inclusion of Dynamic Island. This would replace the smaller notch from earlier SEs and would be a feature that has been given to premium models previously. If it is true, though, this will bring into the firm’s budget-friendly device a modern, dynamic user interface that furthers the bridge between the SE line and flagship models. Performance: Powered by A18 Chip The iPhone SE 4 is said to be powered by an Apple A18 chip, promising a bump in performance and efficiency. This chip will no doubt ensure seamless multitasking, playing games seamlessly, and supporting Apple Intelligence, thus making the SE 4 one of the strong options for those users seeking high performance without breaking their wallets. Camera: A Single Lens with a Big Presence But the single rear camera of the SE 4 is shaping up to be a capable shooter. Given the prominent camera ring, Apple could double down on sensor quality instead of additional lenses. Until launch day, all details about camera capabilities are, however, just speculations. Does It Feature an Action Button? Another point of speculation is the inclusion of an Action Button. Various reports have surfaced, stating that this may replace the traditional Mute Switch, with a multi-functional button; however, confirmation is yet to be given. Conclusion: A Budget-Friendly Powerhouse The iPhone SE 4 could be an interesting option for those looking for a more affordable phone without too many compromises in performance. The rumored design refresh, Dynamic Island, and A18 chip may finally give the budget smartphone segment an all-new meaning. However, some compromises, like the single camera, may not be good enough for some users. More on that as Apple readies the launch of the iPhone SE 4 in the following months. Source & Images: Majin Bu
Galaxy S25 Edge To Be Powered By 3900mAh Battery With 25W Charging Speed
The ultra-thin Galaxy S25 Edge was all set for an official introduction in April 2025. Though the Galaxy S25 Edge wasn’t one of those flagships announced in Galaxy Unpacked, it surely gathered a serious buzz because of its slim build alone. However, a recent 3C certification has spilled the beans that the slim flagship doesn’t come void of compromises. Battery Capacity: The Price of Thinness 3C certification has revealed that the Galaxy S25 Edge will pack a 3,900mAh battery, slightly smaller than the base Galaxy S25’s 4,000mAh. The reason for the reduced capacity is the price that had to be paid for the slim profile of the phone. While this might sit well with users who like thin designs, it also underlines how Samsung is struggling to keep pace with competitors in implementing the latest battery technologies. The result has been that most Chinese smartphone makers have moved to adopt silicon-carbon battery technology, allowing their devices to boast upwards of 6,000mAh batteries. Samsung and Apple are reportedly working on implementing the technology in their future devices, but for now, they’re lagging behind. Even with silicon-carbon batteries, the Galaxy S25 Edge could have packed a 5,000mAh battery to somewhat balance design and performance. Charging Speeds: A Limited Approach The other trade-off seems to be with the charging speeds. The Galaxy S25 Edge will only support 25W fast charging. Again, a strategy probably intended to keep heat dissipation in check and ensure the device has a decent shelf life, but that puts Samsung a step behind competitors who are offering considerably faster options for charging. The restricted wattage might help in maintaining battery health, but it also means that users will have to bear slower charging times compared to other flagship devices. This trade-off may deter power users seeking efficiency and quick top-ups. Performance: A Mixed Bag Under the hood, the Galaxy S25 Edge will pack Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. The benchmarks suggest performance cores are running at 4.47GHz instead of the standard 4.32GHz for powerful performance. Multi-core performance scores have been underwhelming so far, likely due to either software optimization issues or limitations set by the slim form factor. These performance bottlenecks do raise one or two questions about how the device will cope with heavier usage. Despite these shortcomings, the Galaxy S25 Edge is an extraordinary achievement in terms of engineering-a state-of-the-art processor in an extremely slim casing. Should You Buy the Galaxy S25 Edge? Galaxy S25 Edge targets those who will choose aesthetics and portability over long battery life and fast charging. Considering this premium performance and look-and-feel device, users may not find it suitable for those looking to power all day or for faster charging. As Samsung continues to innovate, the Galaxy S25 Edge is a showcase of the brand’s commitment to design excellence, but the compromises it brings do well to remind that finding a middle ground between form and function remains a significant challenge in today’s flagship smartphones. News Source: Abhishek Yadav Images: 9to5Google
Sony Has Finalized PlayStation 6 Chip Design
Sony has been consistent with the timeline of their console launches. The first PS3 was launched in 2006, PS4 in 2013 and PS5 in 2020. If this trend continues the PlayStation 6 will be released in 2027 which will give Sony 3 years to prepare. But recent rumors say the timeline might be shorter than that. Development Timeline: Closer Than Expected A reliable leaker named Kepler (Kepler_L2 on X) says Sony takes 2 years from the final silicon design of their console to its official release. So while the PS6 may seem years away, most of the critical work has to be done soon. Lucky for us Kepler says Sony has already finished the design of the PS6 main processor which is a big milestone. A Cutting-Edge Processor with 3D V-Cache PS6 is said to bring revolutionary tech to its processor. A post from ChipHell forums, user zhangzhonghao says the console will use 3D V-Cache, a tech that stacks the cache memory of the processor. While the majority of the post talks about AMD’s upcoming PC hardware, the mention of Sony using stacked cache for their SoC aligns with AMD’s research on this tech for high performance parts like the rumored Strix Halo. If true, the PS6 will have significant boost in processing and graphics performance. For gamers, that means smoother gameplay, faster load times and potentially more visual effects. The Role of AMD in the PlayStation 6 The development of PlayStation 5 hardware was in collaboration with AMD, as they used their custom processor on previous generations too. The collaboration will likely continue on PS6, using the latest CPU and GPU tech from AMD. Stacked-silicon GPU cache inclusion will make PS6 a leader in gaming hardware innovation. Speculation and High Hopes This is good news for PC gamers too. New console generations usually brings advancements in graphics tech that trickles down to PC components and gaming capabilities. While these are not confirmed, the info from Kepler and zhangzhonghao is looking good for PS6. Sony’s focus on 3D V-Cache shows they are serious about delivering a powerful gaming experience. As gamers wait for official announcement, the 2027 release with latest hardware has got the gaming world excited. Whether console or PC gamer, PS6 will bring a new era of innovation. Conclusion PS6 is looking to be the next big thing in gaming. AMD hardware and stacked-silicon cache will change the game for console gaming. Of course it’s still years away but the leaks and rumors are fun. Source
iPhone SE 4 Dummies Leaked In Two Colors
Apple is all geared up to unveil its new-generation affordable smartphone, the iPhone SE 4. Early images of dummy units give an overview of what to expect in terms of design and features for the upcoming model, suggesting major upgrades both inside and outside. Let’s have a closer look at what the iPhone SE 4 has in store. Design Upgrades: Flat Edges and Larger Display While past SE models reused previous chassis designs, the new iPhone SE 4 adopts a flat-edged shell with a larger display akin to the iPhone 16. This naturally makes the model closer to Apple’s current design language, keeping the price at an affordable point. Images of dummy units in two colors show a sleek, minimalist look. In spite of these upgrades, some cost-cutting measures are quite apparent. The camera setup will be pretty basic: a single sensor in the front and back. While this will make the device at a disadvantage in photography when compared to the premium models, it keeps the price within reach of budget-conscious buyers. Powerful Internals: A18 Chip and 8GB RAM The new iPhone SE 4 will come with powerful hardware under its hood. The upcoming model is tipped to run on Apple’s A18 chip, the same chip driving the iPhone 16. With this chip, accompanied by 8GB of RAM, the configuration positions the iPhone SE 4 well for advanced features, including the generative AI tools of the Apple Intelligence ecosystem. This hardware leap ensures that the device will provide a seamless user experience, even if it lacks some of the premium features found in higher-end models. A Cost-Effective Camera Setup One notable compromise is the simplified camera system. With just two sensors—one on the front and one on the back—the iPhone SE 4 will be a disappointment to photography enthusiasts. However, Apple’s strong software and ecosystem will offset this, allowing users to do more through computational photography. Apple’s First Custom 5G Modem The iPhone SE 4 could also be the first Apple device to boast an in-house 5G modem. This would, in essence, reduce dependence on the pricey baseband chips from Qualcomm and showcase the progress Apple has made in developing its modem technology. If things go according to plan, this will open the doors for more budget-friendly and integrated solutions across the Apple product range. Launch in April According to different industry sources, the iPhone SE 4 is likely to be announced this April. With its modern design and powerful internals, combined with an affordable price tag, it is bound to fare very well in the mid-range smartphone market. Conclusion: A Balanced Upgrade Losing some features like advanced camera systems, SE4 makes up for with a powerful processor, ample RAM, and modern design. Adding to that luster, Apple has also included a custom 5G modem in this device to make top-shelf connectivity more available at a lower price. Source & Images: Majin Bu
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Hands-On Image Leaked
While the smartphone market continues with the buzz of the release of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, Xiaomi is getting ready to make a name for its series. In terms of the widely speculated Xiaomi 15 Ultra, it might make its world debut alongside the standard Xiaomi 15 at MWC 2025. According to reports, the global trade show scheduled in Barcelona from March 3 to March 6 is already confirmed to be Xiaomi’s launch stage for next-generation flagship. A Peek at the Xiaomi 15 Ultra Well, it’s almost months before the much-anticipated MWC 2025, yet online reports have presented a first peek into the upcoming Xiaomi 15 Ultra. We can see the design features of this flagship, judging from the new, bold look unlike some previous ‘Ultras’ from the likes of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra and even Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Interestingly the famous wraparound mid-frame design and vegan leather rear panel of its predecessors are not adopted. Instead, Xiaomi has used a roughened glass back – apparently the only finish available for the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. It’s said to mimic a more roughened version of the Sandstone finish popularized by OnePlus. Enhanced Camera Design Other significant features in the leaked images include the camera module. Xiaomi 15 Ultra features an entirely new layout for the camera, with a slightly oblong lens placed at the top right on the rear panel. The space next to the lens seems vacant but is probably a place for the much-needed powerful 200 MP periscope telephoto sensor with at least 5x optical zoom. If true, this upgrade could significantly enhance the device’s photography capabilities, making it a standout choice for camera enthusiasts. What to Expect in the Coming Weeks As the MWC 2025 countdown begins, there is a likelihood that more leaks and details about Xiaomi 15 Ultra will be uncovered. The actual specifications of the device are unknown, but preliminary revelations suggest Xiaomi is targeting something that would revolutionize the competition. For those who are putting off buying the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra or equivalents, Xiaomi 15 Ultra can probably catch their interest at launch. Bold design changes, a fresh and innovative camera system with premium materials, this looks clearly to be just the product that Xiaomi needs to stake their new flagship’s ground in the high-end smartphone market. Stay tuned for more updates as the MWC 2025 event draws closer and Xiaomi prepares to showcase its latest technological advancements to the world. Source
Galaxy S25 Ultra’s Gorilla Armor 2 Is Tougher Than Apple’s Ceramic Shield
All eyes were on the Galaxy S25 lineup during Samsung’s Unpacked 2025 event, with the S25 Ultra being the star of the show. The S25 Ultra has gotten all the hype, and rightly so-not only because it comes with a whole new stylish design but also because it hosts the world’s very first Gorilla Armor 2 Glass Ceramic with an anti-reflective coating. This game-changing innovation promises unbeatable durability with a better view to set a whole new standard in the world of smartphones. Revolutionary Gorilla Armor 2 Glass Ceramic But perhaps the most striking feature of the Galaxy S25 Ultra is its Gorilla Armor 2 Glass Ceramic-a first in the smartphone industry. Unveiled during the event, Samsung has touted its exceptional durability to survive drops as high as 2.2 meters onto concrete. While such a claim may sound ambitious, Corning, the manufacturer of Gorilla Glass, gave detailed insights into what makes this material exceptional. Unlike traditional glass, Gorilla Armor 2 features a special heat-treated process where crystals are embedded in the glass. It increases mechanical strength with the crystalline structure inside this material and empowers its optical and thermal properties. Stronger, clearer, and heat-resistant than ever. Unparalleled Scratch Resistance and Optical Performance Lab tests by Corning showed that Gorilla Armor 2 is four times more scratch-resistant than anti-reflective coated lithium-aluminosilicate cover glasses, positioning it as an innovation in the industry. To further drive this home, Corning compared it to the leading competitor in durable smartphone glass technology: Apple’s Ceramic Shield. One of the most impressive features regarding Gorilla Armor 2 is its enhanced anti-reflective coating. This addition reduces surface reflections significantly, therefore guaranteeing an ideal viewing experience in varying light conditions. Indoor and outdoor users can enjoy improved contrast ratios and clearer visuals with the Galaxy S25 Ultra for excellent media consumption and photography. Comparison with Apple’s Ceramic Shield But with the competitive environment on the toughness of smartphones, Ceramic Shield from Apple had been thought to be the benchmark for several years. Still, Corning argues that Gorilla Armor 2 performs way better on various key features. With each having impressive toughness, Gorilla Armor 2 performs better with regard to scratch resistance and optical. The anti-reflective coating is even much more fascinating as it would let users be continuously working no matter the kind of light changes occurring around. A Leap Forward in Smartphone Technology The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s use of Gorilla Armor 2 Glass Ceramic is more or less a quantum leap in innovation regarding smartphones. Added to its advanced AI-powered features, the durability factor will be one of the major reasons to look at for the flagship phone. Samsung created a new dimension in flagship smartphones by putting together style, performance, and technology for the very first time. With the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Samsung pushes the envelope even further and secures its leading role in the tech world. The introduction of Gorilla Armor 2 reinvents toughness, reinforces offering an unmatched experience, and is thus bound to rewrite expectations within the premium smartphone segment. Source
There’s One More Thing : Galaxy S25 Edge
Recently, Samsung introduced its new Galaxy S25 series: major internal refreshes but largely similar external designs. However, the star of the show wasn’t one of its flagship models but rather the tease for the supposedly upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge. This slim-profile and innovative-features device will, once again, drive the competition between Samsung and Apple with its iPhone 17 Air. Here is everything we know about the Galaxy S25 Edge. A Slimmer Galaxy S25: Meet the Edge Samsung managed to give a view of the Galaxy S25 Edge, much more slender than their flagships. While Samsung kept the prototype under lock and key—media could only view but not use the device. Design and Build The Galaxy S25 Edge might just be about 6mm to 6.4mm thick, Samsung’s thinnest smartphone yet. It has a similar display size as the Galaxy S25 Plus with a 6.7-inch display, not compromising screen size into being quite portable. Around the back, it’s equipped with a dual-camera setup. This design follows Apple’s minimalist philosophy but includes an additional sensor for added functionality. However, the camera module protrudes quite a bit from the sleek chassis-a compromise to keep the device slim. But How Does It Compare to the Competition? Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge isn’t going to hit the market without its competitors. Apple’s iPhone 17 Air, due later this year, is rumored to be even thinner, less than 6mm. However, Apple is reportedly struggling with some battery technology issues that may delay it or reduce its capabilities. While the S25 Edge sports a triple-camera setup, the iPhone 17 Air reportedly uses only a single lens; hence, Samsung might have the upper hand when it comes to photography capabilities. Features and Expectations While the Galaxy S25 Edge has not been fully revealed, there are a number of features that stand out: High-Quality Display: Samsung is known for its superior displays, and the S25 Edge is expected to feature a high-refresh-rate screen for smoother visuals. Enhanced Camera System: With the dual-camera setup, the speculation goes in favor of improved photography options, possibly targeted at content creators. Thinner Design: The ultra-slim profile may be what users who prefer aesthetics with portability. With these features, the S25 Edge is going to be quite the competitor in the premium category, standing against Apple’s offering. Release Timeline According to sources within Samsung, the S25 Edge will arrive in April 2025, per previous rumors pointing to an April-May timeline. This will provide Samsung with an excellent head start, considering how Apple may release the iPhone 17 Air later in the year. Conclusion The S25 Edge represents Samsung’s leap of faith into ultra-slim smartphone designs. With its sleek form factor, better camera capabilities, and high-resolution display, it will most likely go toe-to-toe with Apple’s iPhone 17 Air. Until we hear more about this phone, the release in April may be a preamble to an interesting year in mobile technology. Stay tuned as more information about the Galaxy S25 Edge rolls in. Source & Images: 9to5Google
iPhone 17 To Feature Same-Sized Dynamic Island
The iPhone 17 is generating a lot of buzz with new innovations and upgrades. Some design elements will remain the same, like the camera module and Dynamic Island. But the rumored iPhone 17 Air is getting all the attention as the star of the show. Here’s everything we know so far about the iPhone 17 and the game-changer, iPhone Air. Dynamic Island Stays the Same Unlike earlier rumors, the iPhone 17 models won’t have a smaller Dynamic Island. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, it will be “essentially the same”. The latest news is bad for users who thought a smaller notch would bring Apple closer to its goal of an all-screen iPhone. Dynamic Island, first introduced in 2022 with the iPhone 14 Pro, replaced the notch with a more compact and useful design. While it’s less obtrusive and has new features, Apple’s end game is to get rid of the cutout altogether. For now, the current design will stay. Conflicting Reports on Dynamic Island According to earlier analyst Jeff Pu, Apple was supposed to shrink the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 17 Pro lineup by using a new “metalens” technology in Face ID. The supposed benefit of this would be to have a cleaner front screen and more screen real estate but if they’re using the same tech as the iPhone 16, that won’t happen till future updates. The Vision of an All-Screen iPhone It’s with this long-term goal of what an iPhone could be-not having any notch or cutout-that the iPhone 17 doesn’t even get to achieve. Smaller Dynamic Island updates in the future models could be the stepping stone to getting there. iPhone 17 Air: A Thin and Innovative Model One of the most exciting things about the iPhone 17 lineup is the iPhone 17 Air. This new model is rumored to be thinner than any iPhone ever, potentially under 6mm thick. If true, that’s a big design win and puts the Air in direct competition with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge. Apple iPhone Air will likely have Apple’s own 5G modem. It may not be a performance monster on day one but Apple has a history of improving its tech — think M-series chips. Eventually its custom modem will be a key differentiator for the company. What’s Next for Apple’s iPhone Lineup? The iPhone 17 lineup, especially the Air, promises new things while keeping some of the old flavors. In fact the unchanged Dynamic Island may disappoint some fans but the thinner model with new hardware may raise the bar for the iPhone as a whole. Source