iPhone 14: what to expect?

By: Rohit Yadav

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Updated on: 23-Jun-2022

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Therefore it is highly unlikely that Apple will launch another Mini iPhone this year.

Non-Pro iPhone 14 Max

Apple is expected to replace the iPhone Mini with a new 6.7” iPhone 14 Max, making it the first non-Pro large form factor phone from Apple.

Design changes

iPhone 14 series will follow the general design language of the previous iPhone models without any major change. According to the leaked renders, Apple iPhone 14 Pro will have more rounded corners compared to the iPhone 13 Pro, to make the radius of the phone’s corner match the radius of the camera bump.

According to the CADs, the corner of the non-Pro iPhones will not be changed iPhone 14 Pro on the left compared to iPhone 13 Pro on the right (renders by artist Ian Zelbo)

Display, Notch

According to Ross Young (CEO at DSCC), all the iPhone models will have a slight increase in screen size, from 6.02” to 6.12” and from 6.68” to 6.69” for the Pro models. This is expected because of the increase in the corner radius of the Pro devices.

Both the non-Pro iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Max will not be supporting a 120 Hz refresh rate, the device will feature a similar notch at the top of the screen to house the front camera and various sensors for Face-ID. On the other hand, both the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max models are expected to part ways with the notch to bring a pill-shaped cutout for the front camera and the sensors.

The Pro models are also expected to come with Always on Display functionality, similar to the Apple Watch, which will be a first for any iPhone model.

Specifications

According to Ming-Chi Quo (an analyst at TF International Securities), the low-end iPhone models will be powered by the Apple A15 processors which can be seen in last year’s iPhone 13 series, whereas the high-end iPhone 14 Pro models will be launched with the new Apple A16 chips. It seems that Apple is slowly trying to differentiate their Pro line of phones from their vanilla counterparts. Last year Apple gave their Pro models an extra GPU core and now the Pro models will exclusively feature the newer processors. Unlike the iPhone 13 series where 6 GB of RAM was used only in Pro models, Apple is expected to give all the models 6 GB of RAM but the type of RAM will not be the same across the lineup. The base iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Max will feature 6 GB of LPDDR4X RAM whereas the Apple iPhone 14 Pro and Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max will feature the faster and more efficient LPDDR5 RAM.

Camera

Since the launch of the iPhone 6s in 2015, Apple has been using the same 12 MP resolution for its camera while improving the sensor and image processing each year. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, this year we could see an increase in the resolution of the primary camera of the iPhone from 12 MP to 48 MP, though only the Pro models will be coming with the upgraded sensor. It should be noted that the telephoto and the ultrawide camera will remain at 12 MP resolution, so Apple might use pixel binning technology for the primary camera (combining multiple small pixels to create a large pixel with more information) to output 12 MP images with more details compared to using a 12 MP sensor.

Apple will probably use the primary and ultrawide camera from the iPhone 13 Pro for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Max.

The flash module is also expected to see a little change, compared to the previous dual circular flash the new one is expected to be in a concentric alignment.

The front camera will also be improved, by using a larger f/1.9 aperture for better low light capabilities and adding auto-focus for an enhanced Facetime/ video calling experience.

Satellite Communication features

Apple has also been working on a communication feature for the iPhones, via the use of low-orbit satellites.

“There have been signs lately that Apple and its apparent satellite partner Globalstar Inc. might be getting closer to launching such a feature. In February, Globalstar said it reached an agreement to buy 17 new satellites to help power “continuous satellite services” for a “potential”—and unnamed—customer that had paid it hundreds of millions of dollars. Is that customer Apple? We’re probably less than six months from finding out, ” Gurman says.

This feature is expected to be primarily used for emergencies at first, however, with time, it could allow iPhone users to communicate with each other even if their devices are in no coverage area. There are some rumours that this will be the year Apple will bring this feature to the iPhone.

New colours

Though there have been no concrete leaks regarding the different colours iPhone 14 series will be available, according to the rumours iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max will be available in, white graphite, gold, silver and an all-new purple, and the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Max will be available in black, white, blue, red and all-new purple.

Availability

Many rumours suggest that due to the supply-chain issues worldwide, there might be a delay in the launch of some of the iPhone models, similar to the delay in availability of the iPhone 13 Mini and the iPhone 13 Pro Max last year. But according to the leading analysts' Apple has things under control with their suppliers, so it is unlikely we would see a delay. Apple iPhone 14 release date is expected to be 13 September 2022.

My take

Considering all the leaks, Apple is hard on differentiating their Pro models from their cheaper phones by bringing faster internals and limiting certain features to Pro phones. This could be the year when shelling out more for the Pro variants of the iPhone will make better sense. It is also sad to see that there will not be any new Mini variants for the iPhones.

Lenovo Increases PC Shipment Forecast for 2025 After Strong Earnings Growth

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 15-Nov-2024

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Key Highlights:

• Lenovo raised its 2025 PC shipment forecast to double-digit growth, up from 5-10%, driven by AI-powered devices and a new Windows 11 replacement cycle.
• The company reported a 44% increase in net income, reaching $358.5 million in Q3 2024.
• Lenovo's PC shipments grew by 3% from last year, while competitors like Dell and Apple saw declines.
• The company is betting on AI not just for consumer devices, but also in its data center segment, which could see significant growth.

Lenovo Boosts 2025 PC Shipments Outlook Following Strong Earnings

Lenovo has revised its outlook for global PC shipments in 2025, now expecting a double-digit percentage growth instead of the earlier forecast of 5-10%. This upbeat forecast comes after the company reported better-than-expected financial results for the September quarter. Lenovo's Chief Executive Officer, Yang Yuanqing, highlighted that the rise in demand for AI-powered PCs and the ongoing Windows 11 replacement cycle will drive this growth in the coming year.

The company also posted strong earnings for Q3 2024, with a 44% jump in net income, amounting to $358.5 million. This is higher than analysts' expectations of $343.3 million. Lenovo's revenue also surged by 24%, reaching $17.85 billion, far surpassing predictions. The strong financial results are attributed to an increase in PC shipments, which grew by 3% compared to the same period last year.

AI and the Future of PCs

The boost in Lenovo's forecast comes at a time when many PC makers are pushing to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their devices. The company believes that AI-driven PCs will help attract more consumers to upgrade their current systems.

These devices, which typically come with higher price tags, aim to offer more powerful performance and smarter features. However, the mass market's reaction to these new AI PCs remains to be seen. While these devices may have significant appeal for tech enthusiasts, it remains unclear if they will gain widespread popularity among average consumers, especially considering their higher cost.

Strengthening Its Data Center Business

Lenovo’s AI focus isn’t limited to consumer devices. The company is also investing heavily in data center solutions, providing powerful servers designed to accelerate AI model training and computations. This division is seen as a key growth driver, especially with the increasing demand for servers that can support AI workloads.

Analysts predict that Lenovo’s data center business could see significant growth, particularly as it secures AI server orders and benefits from a better supply of Nvidia's GPUs (graphics processing units), which are essential for AI tasks. While the company’s profitability in this segment might still face challenges, the long-term potential is strong.

Strong Performance Amid Industry Challenges

Lenovo's strong Q3 performance contrasts with its competitors, such as Dell Technologies and Apple, who reported declines in their PC shipments. According to industry researchers, the overall PC market is currently experiencing a “breather” before the busy year-end buying season. Despite the general slowdown in the industry, Lenovo's focus on AI and high-performance devices is helping it outperform its rivals.

In conclusion, Lenovo’s decision to increase its 2025 shipment outlook highlights the company's confidence in the future of AI-enabled PCs and data center solutions. The company's continued investments in these areas could help it maintain its position as a leader in the highly competitive PC market.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Set for January 22 Launch at Galaxy Unpacked

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 15-Nov-2024

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Key Highlights:

• Launch Date: The Samsung Galaxy S25 series is expected to be launched on January 22, 2025, during the Galaxy Unpacked event in the US.
• New Models: The series will include Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, Galaxy S25 Ultra, and potentially a new Galaxy S25 Slim variant.
• Chipset: All models are speculated to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, with enhanced Galaxy AI features.
• Design Options: The S25 Ultra and S25 are expected to come in seven color options, while the S25+ will offer eight.

Galaxy Samsung's highly anticipated Galaxy S25 series is set to launch in January 2025, with leaks pointing to a Galaxy Unpacked event on January 22 in San Francisco, USA. The official launch date is expected to be confirmed soon, but sources suggest the event could be held one day earlier, on January 22, due to time zone differences. The Galaxy S25 lineup will consist of several models, including the Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, and a new, slimmer variant, the S25 Slim.

Models Expected in the S25 Series

The Galaxy S25 series is expected to feature four distinct models:

• Galaxy S25
• Galaxy S25+
• Galaxy S25 Ultra
• Galaxy S25 Slim (A more compact version, long-rumored but not confirmed yet)

While the regular S25 and S25 Ultra are expected to come in seven color options, the S25+ will offer eight colors, including some exclusive shades for online buyers.

Snapdragon 8 Elite and AI Features

All models in the S25 series are expected to be powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite, offering faster performance and improved efficiency. The new devices will also likely feature advanced Galaxy AI functionalities to enhance user experience through personalized software enhancements.

Expected Features and Design

The Galaxy S25 series is anticipated to showcase Samsung's cutting-edge technology in terms of both performance and design. Based on previous releases, the devices are expected to feature high-refresh-rate AMOLED displays, powerful cameras, and durable designs. The S25 Ultra may continue Samsung's trend of offering the most advanced camera technology, along with a high-end build quality.

Additionally, the S25 Slim could offer a more compact and lightweight option for users who prefer smaller devices without sacrificing performance.

Past Launch Timelines

Samsung typically releases its Galaxy S series in January each year, with the Galaxy S24 launching in mid-January 2024. The Galaxy S23 series was unveiled in February 2023, marking a slight deviation from Samsung's usual launch schedule. If reports are accurate, the Galaxy S25 will return to the early January launch window, continuing the tradition of kicking off Samsung's yearly smartphone cycle with the flagship S series.

The Road Ahead

With the launch of the Galaxy S25 series just a few months away, all eyes are on Samsung to see how the company will innovate further in the highly competitive premium smartphone market. Expect additional leaks and rumors to surface in the coming weeks as the launch date approaches. The Galaxy S25 series could be one of the most anticipated releases of early 2025, especially with the addition of the new S25 Slim variant, which could cater to users who prefer more compact smartphones without sacrificing flagship-level performance.

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Xiaomi’s HyperOS 2, Based on Android 15, Set for Global Rollout

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 15-Nov-2024

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Highlights of the Xiaomi HyperOS 2 Update:

• Based on Android 15, HyperOS 2 introduces AI features like wallpaper generation and smart functionalities.
• The global rollout starts in November 2024, covering smartphones, tablets, and wearables.
• Dynamic Memory and Storage 2.0 optimize system performance for smoother multitasking.
• Early adopters: Xiaomi 14 series, MIX Flip, and select Redmi Note 13 models.
• The full update expands to the Xiaomi 13 series, Poco smartphones, and more Xiaomi tablets in December 2024.

Xiaomi HyperOS 2: A Step Forward in Software Innovation

Xiaomi’s new HyperOS 2, which is built on the foundation of Android 15, is set to elevate the user experience with a series of notable upgrades. The company has confirmed that the HyperOS 2 update will begin rolling out globally in November 2024, targeting a wide range of Xiaomi smartphones, tablets, and wearables. This marks a significant milestone after the initial introduction of HyperOS in 2023, which paved the way for this more advanced iteration.

Key Features of HyperOS 2:

• AI Integration: HyperOS 2 leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to offer features like wallpaper generation, where users can create dynamic, personalized wallpapers based on their preferences.
• Performance Improvements: The update introduces Dynamic Memory and Storage 2.0, designed to optimize system speed, improve multitasking capabilities, and enhance device longevity by more efficiently managing memory and storage resources.
• User Interface Changes: As part of a broader visual refresh, the update includes UI tweaks to make the overall experience smoother and more intuitive across devices.

Global Release Schedule for HyperOS 2

Xiaomi has divided the release of the HyperOS 2 update into two phases: an initial set of devices in November 2024 and a second batch in December 2024. The company has provided a detailed schedule of eligible devices in each phase, ensuring that a wide range of users will benefit from the update.

Devices Receiving HyperOS 2 in November 2024:

Devices Receiving HyperOS 2 in December 2024:

Phased Rollout and Gradual Availability

Xiaomi has emphasized that the HyperOS 2 update will be rolled out gradually to ensure optimal system stability and compatibility across various devices. The update’s availability may vary depending on the region, and users are advised to check for updates through their device settings or official Xiaomi channels.

This release marks an important step for Xiaomi as it aims to offer a more unified and enhanced software ecosystem for its diverse range of products, from smartphones to wearables. With features like AI-driven customization, memory optimization, and expanded hardware support, HyperOS 2 is poised to deliver a refined user experience across the brand’s entire device lineup.

Xiaomi’s aggressive software development and frequent updates underline its commitment to keeping its users on the cutting edge of mobile technology, ensuring that they not only have access to the latest hardware but also to continuously improve software features.

Apple Sets New Record in India, Sells Over 4 Million Units in Q3 2024

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 15-Nov-2024

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Key Highlights:

• Apple's Record Quarter: Apple sold around 4 million units in India during Q3 2024, with strong sales driven by the iPhone 13 and iPhone 15.
• Market Leadership: Vivo maintained its lead in India’s smartphone market, capturing 15.8% of the share, while Oppo posted the highest growth, up 40% year-over-year.
• 5G Surge: The 5G smartphone segment saw a significant rise, with shipments up 83% compared to last year, while premium phones ($600-$800) grew by 86%.

Apple Hits Milestone in India's Growing Smartphone Market

In Q3 2024, Apple marked a historic achievement in India, recording its highest-ever quarterly shipments, with approximately 4 million units sold. The surge in sales was primarily driven by the popularity of models like the iPhone 13 and the newer iPhone 15 series. This performance comes amid a broader growth trend in the Indian smartphone market, which expanded by 5.6% year-over-year, as reported by the International Data Corporation (IDC).

India's Smartphone Market Performance in Q3 2024

India's smartphone market saw a healthy total shipment of 46 million units during the third quarter. The market's growth is driven by both the budget and premium segments. In particular, smartphones priced between $200-$400 contributed significantly to the overall growth, accounting for about 42% of the year-over-year rise.

Top Performers: Vivo and Oppo

While Vivo retained its position as the top smartphone brand in India, commanding 15.8% of the market share, Oppo registered the highest year-on-year growth, selling 40% more units than the same period last year. The surge in Oppo’s sales points to a strengthening of its position in the budget and mid-range segments, which continue to see high demand.

Smartphone Segment Breakdown (Q3 2024)

Shifting Trends in the Smartphone Market

The premium smartphone segment has experienced notable growth, driven largely by continued demand for iPhones and high-end Android models like the Galaxy S23 and OnePlus 12. Devices in the $600-$800 range, including the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15, led the surge, increasing by 86%.

Simultaneously, 5G adoption in India is accelerating, with 5G phones now accounting for 83% of total shipments, compared to 57% last year. Particularly notable is the rise in mass budget 5G smartphones priced between $100 to $200, where sales nearly doubled.

Future Outlook: Continued Growth Expected

Looking ahead, the Indian smartphone market is projected to see continued growth, with double-digit increases expected in 2025, driven by strong demand for entry-level devices. Companies are expected to heavily invest in Gen AI features in their marketing to attract consumers, making next year even more competitive.

This optimistic outlook comes despite potential "cyclic dips" in demand following the festive season, but the market is expected to remain resilient with innovations in affordable 5G and premium smartphone offerings.

Samsung Galaxy A36 Set to Feature Enhanced Front Camera Ahead of March Launch

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 14-Nov-2024

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Key Highlights:

• The Samsung Galaxy A36 is rumored to have a 12-megapixel front camera upgrade.
• It will maintain a 50-megapixel rear camera setup similar to the Galaxy A35.
• The expected launch date is March 2025, featuring Snapdragon chipsets and Android 15.

Samsung is reportedly gearing up to launch its next mid-range device, the Galaxy A36, which will serve as the successor to the Galaxy A35. While the exact launch date remains unconfirmed, early leaks suggest that this smartphone will bring some exciting updates, particularly in its camera technology.

Enhanced Front Camera for Better Selfies

According to a report from Galaxy Club, the Galaxy A36 is set to feature a 12-megapixel front camera, offering an improvement over its predecessor. This front camera will differ from the rumored sensor in the Galaxy A56, highlighting Samsung's strategy to differentiate the camera capabilities between the two models.

Rear Camera Setup Retained

On the rear, the Galaxy A36 is expected to stick with the 50-megapixel main camera found in the Galaxy A35. Additionally, it may include a 5-megapixel macro lens and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide angle camera, providing users with a versatile photography experience. Powerful Performance with Snapdragon Chipsets

The upcoming Galaxy A36 is likely to be powered by either the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 SoC or the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, supported by a configuration that includes 6GB of RAM. Running on Android 15, this device promises to deliver smooth performance and efficient multitasking.

Design and Features

Early renders of the Galaxy A36 suggest a modern hole-punch display design and a revamped camera island featuring three vertically aligned sensors within a pill-shaped module. The smartphone is expected to come equipped with an in-display fingerprint sensor and sport a sleek body, measuring 162.6 x 77.9 x 7.4mm.

Conclusion

With its upgraded front camera, powerful processing capabilities, and stylish design, the Samsung Galaxy A36 is poised to be an exciting addition to the Galaxy A series when it launches in March 2025. As anticipation builds, consumers can look forward to further details as the release date approaches.