Category: News

Up‑to‑date Android news, smartphone launches, software updates and industry trends, written in a clean, editorial style for informed readers.

MediaTek hits new records with Dimensity 9400+

The flagship chipset, the Dimensity 9400+, was revealed in April as the replacement for the Dimensity 9400 from the previous year. It is constructed with TSMC’s state-of-the-art 3nm technology and has a powerful CPU and GPU that guarantee seamless operation even under demanding conditions.

To discover how the flagship-grade MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ chipset compares to its rivals, we’ll be examining its benchmark scores here.

Note: The Vivo X200s (powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9400+) underwent the following benchmark testing.

MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ AnTuTu score

The Dimensity 9400+ receives more than 2.9 million points overall on AnTuTu v10. According to the breakdown, the CPU receives 625K points, the GPU receives 1.3 million, the memory receives 509K, and the user interface receives 459K.

In contrast, the Oppo Find X8, which is powered by the Dimensity 9400, has an overall AnTuTu score of about 2.7 million. There isn’t much of a difference between the two AnTuTu scores for the more recent chip.

Dimensity 9400+	Dimensity 9400
AnTuTu score	2,907,358	2,754,825
CPU	625,811	622,149
GPU	1,312,632	1,220,751
Memory	509,570	489,110
UX	459,344	422,815

Dimensity 9400+ Geekbench score

The Dimensity 9400+ receives 2,945 single-core and 9,184 multi-core marks in Geekbench 6. Once more, the Dimensity 9400, which boasts 2,904 single-core and 8,812 multi-core scores, is not a much better processor.

Dimensity 9400+	Dimensity 9400
Single core	2,945	2,904
Multi core	9,184	8,812

MediaTek Dimensity 9400+

Compared to the Dimensity 9400, the Dimensity 9400+ isn’t much better. With the exception of a little boost in CPU speed for the big core, it still makes use of the same set of CPU cores—one Cortex-X925, three Cortex-X4, and four Cortex-A720. The manufacturing node (TSMC’s 4nm) and instruction set (ARMv9.2-A) remain unchanged.

The Mali-G9125 Immortalis MP12, which is based on ARM’s fifth-generation GPU architecture, offers no improvements at all. The MediaTek Frame Rate Converter tool has been improved, though not significantly. In well-known games, the updated version can provide twice the effective frame rate while also increasing power efficiency by up to 40%.

MediaTek would undoubtedly not miss out on the widespread use of agentic AI, as the Dimensity 9400+ offers a 20% quicker agentic AI performance than its predecessor with Speculative Decoding (SpD+). With on-device processing, the chip fully supports the DeepSeek-R1-Distill (1.5B/7B/8B) model.

With the exception of the newer Dimensity 9400+ chip, which increases phone-to-phone Bluetooth connections from 1.5km to 10km, connectivity isn’t getting any major changes. Everything else is the same, so it has a 3GPP Release-17 5G modem, Bluetooth 6.0, and Wi-Fi 7 (peak speed 7.3Gbps).

Dimensity 9400	Info
Announced	April 2025
Process node	3nm (TSMC)
CPU	1 x Cortex-X925 — 3.73GHz 3 x Cortex-X4 — 3.3GHz 4 x Cortex-A720 — 2.4GHz
GPU	Arm Immortalis-G925 MC12 MediaTek HyperEngine Gaming Ray tracing support
NPU	MediaTek NPU 890
Camera	MediaTek Imagiq 1090 ISP Up to 320MP single camera Up to 8K/60fp video recording Features: Gen-AI Telephoto, Full range HDR zoom, real-time AI segmentation in video
Memory	LPDDR5X, 10667Mbps
Storage	UFS 4 + MCQ
Connectivity	3GPP Release-17 5G modem Download: 7.3Gbps (max) Wi-Fi 7 Bluetooth 6.0

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

June 13, 2025

Battery Health Assistance coming to all Pixel devices

As seen by the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update, the company is getting ready to expand the Battery Health Assistance function, which made its debut with the Pixel 9a, to additional Pixel devices. Serious problems including battery overheating and even melting during charging have recently been reported with certain Pixel phones. The tech giant is working hard to stop this, though.

Android 16 beta update brings ‘Battery Health Assistance’ feature

For those who are unaware, early this year, Google released the Pixel 9a with Battery Health Assistance, a charge management tool. This feature cannot be manually disabled because it is enabled by default.

Google’s support page states that Battery Health Assistance aids in controlling the long-term performance and health of a phone’s battery. Serious problems like battery deterioration, overheating, and even melting when charging can be avoided with its assistance.

After applying the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update on their phones, a few users became aware of the new feature. To put it briefly, Google intends to eventually extend this feature to older Pixel models.

Google defines the feature as follows; ”Lithium-ion batteries are consumable components that eventually require replacement. As your battery ages, Battery health assistance helps manage its long-term health and performance. This software adjusts the battery’s maximum voltage in stages. It starts at 200 charge cycles and continues gradually until 1000 charge cycles. This helps stabilize battery performance and aging.”

Images posted by customers who have tested Battery Health Assistance indicate that, unlike the Pixel 9a, the feature won’t be required. In other words, if you want to, you can turn it off. Google advises, however, that you keep it enabled at all times to preserve the functionality and health of your battery.

It’s crucial to have this feature to keep your battery from dying too soon.

On Pixel phones, the Battery Health Assistance feature may somewhat shorten battery life and charging speed. In the long run, nevertheless, it is really useful and protects the battery. This might stop the recent battery problems that some Pixel variants have been having.

Many stories of earlier Pixel models burning and even melting their batteries after charging have surfaced in recent months. Arielle, a user, even complained last week that her Google Pixel 6a melted and caught fire while charging. It is noteworthy that she was utilizing a third-party, non-OEM charger.

Google Pixel 9a with Gemini
Google Pixel 9a is engineered by Google with more than you expect, for less than you think; like Gemini, your built-in AI assistant, the incredible Pixel Camera, and an all-day battery and durable design
~~$499.00~~$449.00Amazon

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

June 13, 2025
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra at its lower price on Amazon

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is currently the best-selling phone on Amazon. Since its release in January 2025, it has been regarded by many as the greatest Android phone, surpassing even the iPhone 16 Pro. Amazon is selling it for $1,049, a record low price and $250 less than its original $1,299 price. Although it can sell out quickly, it’s also significantly less expensive here than at the official Samsung store.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Streamline your day with an assistant that gets you. Ask it to Google search for a pet-friendly vegan restaurant nearby and text it to your friend— your Galaxy S25 Ultra handles multiple tasks with a single ask.
~~$1,299.99~~$1,049.99Amazon

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – best phone in 2025

Experts believe that the Galaxy S25 Ultra is the greatest phone on the market right now since Samsung has advanced both software and hardware by incorporating artificial intelligence at every stage to provide a flawless user experience. The newest Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor, which powers the phone, provides blazing-fast performance for lag-free media playback and multitasking. Everything is a joy thanks to the enormous 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display’s brilliant colors and crisp graphics, whether you’re working or playing games.

It is perfect for businesspeople, influencers, and other individuals who use their phones constantly because of its long battery life, which allows you to use them heavily for an entire day (and possibly even longer) without worrying about running out of power.

Also, you will love its AI-powered camera system: With a 200MP primary sensor, a 50MP periscope telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and an additional telephoto lens for versatile shooting, the Galaxy S25 Ultra has a top-tier quad-camera configuration. The Audio Eraser camera removes background noise and produces beautiful footage in difficult low-light conditions. in order to revisit your most treasured memories with increased clarity and reduced distraction. Each picture appears polished and fashionable thanks to the portrait features, which are designed to enhance skin tones while maintaining natural texture.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra‘s extensive use of AI makes it an expert at simplifying your day in addition to photography: You may simplify your day by using features like “Multiple chores With One Ask,” which allows you to give your phone instructions to complete multiple chores simultaneously with a single request. For instance, you can instruct it to look for a vegan restaurant that accepts pets in your area and SMS a buddy the findings all at once. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is an appealing option for individuals looking for the highest level of performance and innovation since it combines smart AI capabilities with high-end technology, such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset and multipurpose camera array.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is a fantastic choice at its lowest price ever if you’re searching for a high-end AI smartphone that simplifies your life.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Streamline your day with an assistant that gets you. Ask it to Google search for a pet-friendly vegan restaurant nearby and text it to your friend— your Galaxy S25 Ultra handles multiple tasks with a single ask.
~~$1,299.99~~$1,049.99Amazon

June 12, 2025
Desktop Mode preview spotted in Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2
Android 16 has finally been made available to the general public by Google. The June Pixel Drop and Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 are also available today, so this isn’t the only update. Here, we’ll concentrate on Android 16 QPR1’s second beta, which will be made available to the general public as Pixel Drop the next quarter.

In late May, Google started testing the Android 16 QPR1. Some of the Material 3 Expressive changes were first made available in the first beta. In addition to bug improvements, the second beta offers developers a sneak peek into Dex-like desktop mode.

Desktop mode is inevitable in Android 16

Pixel devices using build number BP31.250523.006 can access the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2, which is still based on the May security patch. The second beta, as previously said, is more akin to a bug-fix update that fixes a number of known problems. The known bug fixes are listed here.
- Auto dark theme is not working
- Now playing is crashing when selecting a track
- Camera frequently fails to launch
- Shortcuts for newly-downloaded apps aren’t automatically added
- Home button not working on app list UI
- “More wallpapers” button misaligned in wallpaper settings
- Gemini fails to work on the lockscreen
The second beta of Android 16 QPR1 will be accessible via an over-the-air update if you have already installed the first beta on your Pixel phone. To test the new QPR beta and the next beta builds, you can simply sign up for the beta program if you’re on a public build.

Make care to backup crucial data and charge your smartphone to at least 50% before applying the update.

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.
June 12, 2025
HyperOS 2.2 update started to roll out for another batch
Xiaomi has started the release of the HyperOS 2.2 stable upgrade for its second batch of devices sooner than originally planned. Some devices have already received the update, rather than the previously announced June 20th start date. Camera 6.0 improvements, improved system animations, sophisticated lock screen customization choices, and system-level efficiency optimizations that take user feedback and changing usage patterns into account are all included in this update. The update strengthens the brand’s user experience across product lines and marks a significant leap in Xiaomi’s software architecture.

Devices that already received HyperOS 2.2

The following devices have successfully received the HyperOS 2.2 stable update:
- REDMI Turbo 4 Pro
- REDMI Turbo 4
- REDMI Note 14 5G
- REDMI Note 14 Pro 5G
- REDMI Note 14 Pro+ 5G
These models now operate with the full HyperOS 2.2 feature set, including all integrated improvements and interface updates.

In the upcoming weeks, the update is planned for further high-end models:

Flagship Smartphones:
- Xiaomi 13 Ultra
- Xiaomi 13 Pro
- Xiaomi 13
- Xiaomi MIX FOLD 3
- Xiaomi CIVI 4 Pro
Tablet Devices:
- Xiaomi Pad 6 Max 14
- Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro
Performance Series:
- REDMI K60 Ultra
- REDMI K60 Pro
- REDMI K60
- REDMI Turbo 3
Key features we found in HyperOS 2.2

Camera 6.0, which offers better computational photography and increased image capabilities, is introduced in HyperOS 2.2. Updated lock screen customization options offer a more adaptable user interface, and system animations have been further improved for greater fluidity. Additional system-wide improvements help to boost battery efficiency and overall performance.

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.
June 12, 2025
Google Tensor G5 comes on 3nm build and a new GPU

According to reports, Google’s Pixel 10 series will use the Tensor G5 as its next processor. According to reports, it will be manufactured under the codename “Laguna” under a multi-year agreement with TSMC, which would completely replace Samsung. There have been major architectural modifications in this flagship processor.

According to reports, the Google Tensor G5 has an 8-core CPU and makes use of TSMC’s 3nm node. One Cortex-X4 prime core at 3.4 GHz, three to five Cortex-A725 performance cores at roughly 2.85 GHz, and two to four Cortex-A525 efficiency cores at 2.4 GHz are typical configurations, though reports vary significantly. Using the Cortex-A725, the design prioritizes efficiency and long-term performance, which is further improved by the 3nm technology. The goal of switching to more modern efficiency cores is to enhance the user experience in general.

A single-core score of roughly 1323 and a multi-core score of roughly 4004 are displayed in the leaked Geekbench 6 results. These are preliminary findings, but they fall short of the Tensor G4’s scores (about 1950 single-core and 4741 multi-core).

There is potential for improvement through software optimization, as indicated by projected scores of 2200 single-core and 5700 multi-core, as well as a company objective of maybe surpassing 2300 single-core and 7600+ multi-core. Early software optimization or certain test setups could be the cause of the initial lower scores. In early incarnations, the emphasis on a more efficient production process may put power efficiency ahead of peak performance.

Despite architectural modifications and the switch to a 3nm technology, early benchmarks indicate that the Tensor G5 might not much outperform its predecessor in Geekbench 6. The particular setups of the testing devices or early software optimization may be to blame for this. In early generations, the shift to a more efficient manufacturing process may put power efficiency ahead of peak performance benefits.

The Tensor G5 is anticipated to include a dual-core Imagination Technologies IMG DXT-48-1536 GPU clocked at 1.1 GHz, whereas the Google Tensor G4 used an Arm Mali-G715 MP7 GPU. This marks a substantial shift away from Google’s prior dependence on Arm Mali GPUs. This points to a change in strategy, either motivated by discontent with Mali’s performance in some domains or a keen interest in the capabilities of the IMG DXT.

The highest level in the Ray Tracing Level System (RTLS), Level 4 ray tracing, is supported by the IMG DXT GPU, allowing for powerful visuals with low power consumption. This attempts to give the Pixel 10 more lifelike and captivating visual and gaming experiences. Users that value visual quality and game performance will find Level 4 ray tracing’s cutting-edge visuals appealing.

Power efficiency is a key component of the IMG DXT, and its successor, the DXTP, offers up to 20% more power efficiency (FPS/W). Although DXT is used by the Tensor G5, this suggests a common pattern in Imagination’s designs. By switching to IMG DXT, the Pixel 10’s graphics subsystem may become more power efficient, which could solve a persistent problem with Tensor-based devices’ short battery life. A major benefit would be increased power efficiency over the Mali-G715 MP7.

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

June 11, 2025
Android 16 is now available, comes new camera features and live notification updates.

Since Android 16 is now accessible on compatible phones, Google has made it widely available. According to the business, the OS will be preinstalled on new devices in “the next months.”

The update has a number of noteworthy features. Live updates in alerts may be the most significant. People won’t have to keep opening and closing the app to figure out why a burrito seems to be stuck four streets away thanks to this change, which will put a progress indicator in the notification for things like ride-sharing and food delivery.

Also, to cut down on clutter and pings, alerts from the same app will now be automatically grouped together. With a native control option, LE audio hearing aids are now supported. When utilizing one of these hearing aids in noisy environments, users can easily switch to the microphone on their phone for crisper audio.

Android 16 offers more protection for users

Users may now be protected from “online attacks, malicious apps, risky websites, fraudulent calls and more in just a tap” thanks to Google’s integration of all its security capabilities. New scam detection tools that were teased back in May are part of this.

A significant amount of new features are being added to shutterbugs, such as hybrid auto exposure, automatic night mode scene identification, and more accurate color temperature adjustments. Android 16 has integration with the premium Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec, and UltraHDR photos have been enhanced with support for HEIC encoding.

Although it isn’t yet ready, Google is finally introducing desktop windowing to Android. Android 16 QPR 3 Beta 2 is now previewing that feature, which will be made accessible to the general public later this year.

A nice upgrade to the Android environment with some useful improvements is also available. Improved RCS group conversations with personalized icons and thread muting capabilities are part of this. The AI-enhanced image editor in Google Photos now suggests possible adjustments. Wear OS devices can now pay for transit fares without opening a separate app, while Emoji Kitchen is getting additional sticker combinations.

Lastly, Google has provided information about the June Pixel Drop. Among the new features are more expressive video captioning and a Pixel VIPs widget that shows details about favored contacts.

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.

June 10, 2025
Samsung offers great deals today.
Is a Samsung watch required during their Discover sale? They are giving you a discount on all of their remaining Galaxy Watch models, whether or not you have a trade-in. While the Galaxy Watch Ultra is up to 50% off, even the previous Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, which features a rotating bezel, is up to $225 off.

Great deals for all Galaxy watches

Samsung didn’t go all out for this Discover week, but they still have good offers on almost everything, including the Galaxy Watch. With the right trade-in, a Galaxy Watch Ultra is almost 50% off, making it $325—a fantastic deal. However, you may just simply cut $200 off without making any trades. The Galaxy Watch 7 is also discounted by $175 with trades or $100 without. I was unaware that Samsung was still offering the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, but it’s available for as little as $279 if you don’t trade in anything.
- Galaxy Watch Ultra: $200 off with no trades, $325 off with | Buy
- Galaxy Watch 7: $100 off with no trades, $175 off with | Buy
- Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: $120 off with no trades, $225 off with | Buy
- Galaxy Watch FE: $50 off with no trades, $50 off with | Buy
With incredible discounts on their 75-inch Neo QLED 4K TV (nearly $2,000 off), their Bespoke Jet Bot Combo Robot Mop (here) for $550 off, and their incredibly cool Odyssey OLED G9 curved monitor (here) for $900 off, Samsung’s Discover sale is still going strong.

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.
June 7, 2025
#dealalert – Pixel Watch 3 gets a nice discount from Amazon

This is the ideal moment to purchase a brand-new Pixel Watch 3 if you’ve been searching for one. You can choose the model of Google’s flagship watch that best suits your needs, preferences, and price range thanks to Amazon’s ongoing excellent discounts.

As of this writing, for example, all Wi-Fi models are on sale for $50 off, making them as cheap as $350. Additionally, you can choose the paint job that you like most because all color selections are priced the same.

Google Pixel Watch 3 – Wi-FI
The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit; the 41mm screen is twice as bright and 10% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info
~~$349.99~~$299.99Amazon

Feel free to purchase one of the LTE variants if you would prefer to be able to make calls while leaving your Pixel phone at home. All cellular-powered models of the watch are delightfully discounted and on sale for $70 off, much like the Wi-Fi versions.

It’s important to note that Amazon frequently offers similar price reductions for the Pixel Watch 3. They show up, stay for a few weeks, then fade away for a bit before resurfacing. However, should this deter you from buying one of the top smartwatches available?

Even though the $50 and $70 discounts are sporadic, they nevertheless allow you to upgrade your smartwatch game by obtaining the best Pixel Watch at a lower cost. And simply have a peek! It looks stunning with its dome-like form and may work well with both a pricey suit and casual wear.

Naturally, as a direct competitor to the Apple Watch Series 10 and Galaxy Watch 7, its many features complement its attractive appearance. In fact, it has a temperature sensor and all the other health-tracking capabilities that a smartwatch of this kind should have. Additionally, the readings are accurate because Fitbit’s tracking powers it.

Numerous apps will also be available to you. You can download apps straight to your wearable as the watch, which runs Wear OS, supports Google’s Play Store. Additionally, the battery has a good lifespan, easily lasting a full day between charges. Just bear in mind that, as is quite typical with this kind of smartwatch, you’ll probably need to recharge it every night.

Google Pixel Watch 3 – LTE
Know what your body is ready for each day with readiness; it uses sleep, resting heart rate, and heart rate variability to show if you’re ready to take on a workout or prioritize recovery.
~~$449.99~~$379.99Amazon

June 5, 2025
How the EU is transforming the mobile industry for the benefit of consumers
The European Union has instructed smartphone makers to alter their product lines in a number of ways over the past few years in order to better serve customers. Making USB-C the industry standard connector for a variety of consumer goods, such as laptops, tablets, phones, and cameras, is part of this. It even compelled Apple to allow sideloading of programs and third-party App Stores. Later this month, the EU will implement a new guideline under the Energy Labelling and Ecodesign Regulation that will increase the lifespan of smartphones and tablets as a whole.

The following design specifications (provided by the European Commission) must be met by smartphones and tablets marketed in the EU as of June 20, 2025:
- Resistance to accidental drops or scratches and protection from dust and water
- Sufficiently durable batteries which can withstand at least 800 charge and discharge cycles while retaining at least 80% of their initial capacity
- Rules on disassembly and repair, including obligations for producers to make critical spare parts available within 5-10 working days, and for 7 years after the end of sales of the product model on the EU market
- Availability of operating system upgrades for longer periods (at least 5 years from the date of the end of placement on the market of the last unit of a product model)
- Non-discriminatory access for professional repairers to any software or firmware needed for the replacement
These days, practically every mid-range and high-end phone has an IP rating, making it simple for them to comply with the EU’s new design guidelines. For a maximum of seven years following the discontinuation of a device’s sale, the European Union will now mandate that companies supply essential spare parts within ten working days. This modification should greatly increase a phone or tablet’s lifespan and facilitate user repairs.

Additionally, according to Heise Online, the Ecodesign Regulation mandates that software updates be provided for a minimum of five years following the product’s last day of retail sale. For their flagship phones, Google and Samsung offer seven years of OS updates; however, their chronology starts on the day of the device’s debut.

These businesses might have to either stop selling older flagship models after two years or provide substantially more software support under the new EU regulations. Since Xiaomi and Honor presently only provide upgrades for a maximum of five years after the device’s launch date, the new guideline will have a big influence on both brands.

Existing smartphones and tablets will not be affected by these changes; they will only be applicable to new models that go on sale on or after June 20, 2025.

In the EU, smartphones and tablets will have an energy label.

The EU’s Energy Labelling regulations also take effect on June 20 of this month. It requires manufacturers to include an energy label on their tablets and smartphones that includes information about repairability, battery longevity, dust and water ingress protection, and energy efficiency.

A scale from A to G will be used to rate energy efficiency, with A representing the highest efficiency and G representing the lowest. Similarly, battery endurance in hours and minutes per full battery charge cycle must be stated by manufacturers.

According to the European Union, by 2030, phones and tablets that comply with its new energy requirements will contribute to an annual savings of around 14 terawatt-hours.

Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.
June 3, 2025