Category: News

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

  • Android 16 update for Samsung One UI 8: complete list of compatible Galaxy devices

    Android 16 update for Samsung One UI 8: complete list of compatible Galaxy devices

    Samsung has already provided a specific schedule for the stable rollout, but the company is now having trouble launching One UI 7. Users must be wondering which handsets will be eligible for the update, as Samsung will be concentrating on One UI 8 after this is finished. Here is the complete list of (anticipated) One UI 8 compatible devices.

    As the initial glance has already been made public, Samsung has in fact started working behind closed doors on One UI 8, their next major OS version that will run Android 16.

    Although Samsung has already given a precise timeline for the stable rollout, the business is currently experiencing issues with One UI 7. After this is done, Samsung will focus on One UI 8, therefore users must be wondering which phones will be eligible for the update. The full list of (expected) One UI 8 supported devices is available here.

    Samsung has actually begun working behind closed doors on One UI 8, their next major operating system version that will run Android 16, as the first look has already been made public.

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    List of One UI 8 Eligible Galaxy Phones and Tablets

    Galaxy S series

    • Galaxy S25
    • Galaxy S25+
    • Galaxy S25 Ultra 
    • Galaxy S24 Ultra
    • Galaxy S24+
    • Galaxy S24
    • Galaxy S24 FE
    • Galaxy S23 Ultra
    • Galaxy S23+
    • Galaxy S23
    • Galaxy S23 FE
    • Galaxy S22 Ultra
    • Galaxy S22+
    • Galaxy S22
    • Galaxy S21 FE

    Galaxy Z series 

    • Galaxy Z Fold 6
    • Galaxy Z Flip 6
    • Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition
    • Galaxy Z Fold 5
    • Galaxy Z Flip 5
    • Galaxy Z Fold 4
    • Galaxy Z Flip 4

    Galaxy A series 

    • Galaxy A73
    • Galaxy A56
    • Galaxy A55
    • Galaxy A54
    • Galaxy A53
    • Galaxy A36
    • Galaxy A35
    • Galaxy A34
    • Galaxy A33
    • Galaxy A26
    • Galaxy A25
    • Galaxy A24
    • Galaxy A16
    • Galaxy A15
    • Galaxy A14
    • Galaxy A06
    • Galaxy A05
    • Galaxy A05s

    Galaxy Tab series

    • Galaxy Tab S10+
    • Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra
    • Galaxy Tab S10 FE
    • Galaxy Tab S10 FE+
    • Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
    • Galaxy Tab S9 FE
    • Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
    • Galaxy Tab S9+
    • Galaxy Tab S9
    • Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
    • Galaxy Tab S8+
    • Galaxy Tab S8
    • Galaxy Tab A9
    • Galaxy Tab A9+
    • Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro
    • Galaxy Tab Active5

    Galaxy M series

    • Galaxy M56
    • Galaxy M55s
    • Galaxy M55
    • Galaxy M54
    • Galaxy M34
    • Galaxy M35
    • Galaxy M53
    • Galaxy M33
    • Galaxy M16
    • Galaxy M15
    • Galaxy M06

    Galaxy F series

    • Galaxy F55
    • Galaxy F54
    • Galaxy F34
    • Galaxy F16
    • Galaxy F15
    • Galaxy F06

    Galaxy XCover Series

    • Galaxy XCover7 Pro
    • Galaxy XCover7
    • Galaxy XCover6 Pro

    Android 16 with One Ui 8 release date and features

    It is anticipated that the most recent One UI 8.0, which is based on Android 16 and is a modest upgrade that improves One UI 7 capabilities, would be released in late July or early August. Because it comes pre-installed on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, an early distribution is expected.

  • How to enable Auracast in Android 16 – audio sharing feature

    How to enable Auracast in Android 16 – audio sharing feature

    While there won’t be any significant UI changes in the impending Android 16 update for Pixel devices, it will finally provide a long-awaited feature: support for Auracast. Devices can initiate or listen to adjacent audio streams thanks to the Bluetooth LE Audio standard’s Auracast functionality, which is the marketing name for broadcast audio. Despite Google’s announcement that the latest Pixel smartphones will support Auracast in Android 16, if you install the beta, the capability is not yet available. Here’s how to turn on Auracast on an Android 16 beta-powered Pixel device.

    To put things in perspective, Google said in March that owners of Pixel 9 devices could receive Auracast broadcasts straight to their hearing aids. The Pixel 9 must be running the Android 16 beta and have LE Audio-compatible headphones in order to use this feature. Google emphasized the accessibility advantages of Auracast, although the capability works with any audio device that can receive LE Audio broadcasts, not only hearing aids.

    Auracast isn’t actually enabled in the current Android 16 Beta 4 version, even though Google previously stated that it will work on Pixel 9 devices running the Android 16 beta. The “Audio Sharing” page was missing from Settings after I factory reset my own Pixel 9 and updated it to this beta. I know how to make this settings page available, but I’m not sure why it’s hidden by default.

    To activate Audio Sharing on your Pixel device, you need to first enable Developer Options. Then, navigate to Settings > System > Developer options and scroll down until you find “Enable Bluetooth LE Audio Broadcast UI preview.” Toggle this setting on, and then reboot your phone. Once your phone boots back up, go to Settings > Connected devices > Connection preferences, where you’ll find the “Audio sharing” page.

    By connecting a headset that supports Auracast and turning on the “share audio” feature from this page or the Bluetooth panel, you can now begin an audio broadcast. You can set a password for your broadcast to keep undesirable listeners from joining. Tap the “find an audio stream” option to look for streams in your area if you would prefer to listen in on a broadcast.

    Auracast audio sharing

    Make sure Bluetooth LE Audio is turned on for that particular device if Android still prevents you from starting or listening to adjacent broadcasts even when you have an Auracast-capable audio device connected. You may need to manually activate LE Audio via the Bluetooth device details page for a lot of audio items. As an alternative, you can compel Android to automatically enable Bluetooth LE Audio for any compatible audio device by turning on the “bypass Bluetooth LE Audio Allowlist” toggle in Developer Options.

    Bluetooth device details page for LE Audio capable earbuds.jpg

    Finally, your Pixel device does not support Auracast if you do not see the “Enable Bluetooth LE Audio Broadcast UI preview” toggle in Developer Options. At the moment, the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold are compatible with Auracast.

    This toggle won’t show up for devices like the Pixel 7 series, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8a, and Pixel 9a, even though they theoretically support Bluetooth LE Audio. However, they don’t support Auracast. Since the Pixel 6 series does not support LE Audio, it does not meet the requirements to use Auracast and will not display the toggle.

    Remarkably, the most recent stable version of Android 15 for Pixel smartphones with Auracast support does have the “Enable Bluetooth LE Audio Broadcast UI preview” button. Accordingly, installing the Android 16 beta is not strictly required in order to utilize the Audio Sharing feature. You might anticipate that Audio Sharing would be enabled by default in the Android 16 beta, given Google’s announcement, but it might not be the case with the next stable release of Android 16. Google is anticipated to release the stable Android 16 version next month, so we’ll have to wait and see.

  • MediaTek launched Helio G200 – budget gaming SOC

    MediaTek launched Helio G200 – budget gaming SOC

    The Helio G200, MediaTek’s newest chipset, was formally announced. It significantly improves the low-cost phone lineup, which is dominated by Xiaomi phones. Utilizing the advancements of its predecessor, the Helio G100, which powered the well-liked Redmi Note 14 Pro 4G, this new chip delivers significant improvements to networking and camera management.

    The G200 is a component of MediaTek’s continuous effort to offer premium features at reasonable costs, which is exactly in line with Xiaomi’s own strategy in the smartphone market.

    Better Performance

    The MediaTek Helio G200 features the same core architecture as the previous one but with several significant upgrades:

    • Octa-core CPU setup (6x Arm Cortex-A55 at 2.0GHz + 2x Arm Cortex-A76 at 2.2GHz)
    • Mali-G57 MC2 GPU now at 1.1GHz for enhanced gaming performance
    • Support for LPDDR4X memory with speeds of up to 4266Mbps
    • Compatibility with UFS 2.2 storage for quick data access

    MediaTek’s HyperEngine technology, which adjusts the network connections, display settings, and touch input while gaming, further strengthens the processor’s gaming capabilities.

    mediatek helio g200

    Improved camera capabilities

    One of the greatest advancements in the G200 is in its imaging abilities:

    • Support for camera sensors with as much as 200MP with 12-bit DCG
    • Triple ISP architecture for quicker image processing
    • Advanced AI noise reduction technology
    • Hardware-accelerated depth engine for enhanced portrait shots
    • Both single and dual camera bokeh effects are supported

    Because of these enhancements, the G200 is a desirable option for smartphone manufacturers looking to offer exceptional photography capabilities in mid-range devices.

    Features

    The Helio G200 features several new connectivity features not available in the G100:

    • Optimized signal reception through DCSAR technology
    • MEDIATEK introduces new “Elevator Mode” for preserving connectivity in difficult situations
    mediatek g100 vs g200

    We should expect Xiaomi’s upcoming mid-range smartphones to employ this new G200 chip, as the Redmi Note 14 Pro 4G uses the Helio G100. Better gaming performance, better photography, and more reliable connectivity would all be supported by the updated specifications without significantly increasing the devices‘ price.

  • Samsung Galaxy A35 gets the OneUI 7 update

    Samsung Galaxy A35 gets the OneUI 7 update

    Samsung appears to be looking forward to bringing the next Android 15-based One UI 7 update to more Galaxy smartphones around the world. Samsung has already delivered the upgrade to major flagships, but it is now time for previous generation devices, including the A portfolio, as Galaxy A35 phones have lately begun receiving the software.

    More precisely, Samsung has initiated a solid rollout for the Galaxy A35 models in its native country of South Korea, with wider availability coming soon. The device’s upgrade is identifiable by the build number A356NKSU4BYDD.

    Galaxy A35 One UI 7 Update

    Meanwhile, the update contains a number of fascinating improvements and changes, including better AI-powered functionality in the form of Awesome Intelligence, a scaled-down version of the full-fledged Galaxy AI suite.

    It includes a sophisticated user interface, highly customizable home screen widgets, and a new Now Bar feature that allows users to access all key information such as sports scores, health-related information, alerts, and more without unlocking the device, all while improving overall productivity, creativity, and security.

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    At the same time, the update further integrates the April security patch, which focuses on improving the device’s overall security and core functionality that provides a more secure, smooth and efficient user experience.

  • The new design for Android was just leaked by Google.

    The new design for Android was just leaked by Google.

    Google recently unintentionally unveiled Material 3 Expressive, their upcoming major Android overhaul. The business calls the upgrade the “most researched” one to yet, aiming to make its UI more aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly, in a since-deleted blog post that 9to5Google saw.

    An archival copy of the removed webpage is available on the Wayback Machine and 9to5.Some of the photographs that Google did not save have been made public.

    6819c5d601787

    Google claims to have created Material 3 Expressive following 46 design and research iterations with more than 18,000 participants, as detailed in the post.The design makes a product “more useable” by utilizing color, shape, size, and motion. Later this month, it will also have a separate session at Google I/O.

    Google’s research included examining how participants responded to various looks, where they concentrated their attention within a design, and how quickly they grasped an interface. For example, “which progress indicator made the waiting time feel faster” and “how big a button may be for good gains in tap time without overwhelming other objects” were examined by the company as separate components.

    Material 3 Expressive 1

    When compared to the previous Material 3 design, Google claims that its Material 3 Expressive design made it up to four times faster for users to locate important items inside the interface. Material 3 Expressive “seems to level the playing field for users of all ages,” according to the report, since the design made it easier for individuals over 45 to recognize interface elements just as quickly as younger users.

    Reports over the last few days indicate that Google intends to implement improvements to Android’s user interface, such as updated fast settings menu, a new clock font, and revised status bar icons (such the battery icon). Changes to the Google Clock app have also been revealed by other leaks.

  • #rumor – Xiaomi might build HyperOS 3 free of Google services

    #rumor – Xiaomi might build HyperOS 3 free of Google services

    There is currently a precarious scenario between the United States and China, with Huawei being the unlucky subject of trade sanctions. The constraints imposed on the erstwhile smartphone behemoth indicate that other Chinese corporations, like as Xiaomi, are not immune to incurring the same fate, which is why it is critical that these companies be well-prepared for any shocks. For the time being, the first order of business is a report that a HyperOS version devoid of Google Play apps and services, akin to Huawei’s HarmonyOS, is in the works, with BBK assisting with the changeover.

    Huawei’s experience in dealing with hardship will help Xiaomi develop its latest HyperOS 3 version.

    HyperOS 3 version

    A highly speculative rumor from XiaomiTime claims that Xiaomi is collaborating with Huawei and the BBK Group, the parent company of OPPO, Vivo, and OnePlus, to create a HyperOS 3 version that is free of Google’s apps and services. Xiaomi now has a license to use the Mountain View company’s smartphone operating system, but no one knows when the Trump administration may reconsider this collaboration.

    The US government’s concerns about Xiaomi may have been exacerbated when it was revealed that the company had successfully taped-out its custom 3nm chipset and was on track to launch its first in-house solution, Xring, later this month, though the intended timeline may be pushed back. Unfortunately, the only market where Xiaomi can achieve the majority of its success if it abandons Android is China, unless it can provide millions of customers with a custom app store that includes all of the essential alternatives, which is extremely difficult.

    It is likely that Xiaomi is keeping HyperOS 3 as a “ace up its sleeve” in case the Trump administration imposes a trade ban on the company, which would also prevent it from using Google Play services or apps. Until such an incident occurs, Xiaomi will most likely avoid losing a large number of consumers and millions of dollars in income.

  • Google’s new tool will solve battery issues on Xiaomi devices

    Google’s new tool will solve battery issues on Xiaomi devices

    Google announced an amazing beta feature that addresses one of Android’s most long-standing issues: battery drain. The innovation is significant for Xiaomi consumers who prioritize battery performance in their daily smartphone usage. The functionality works by tracking “excessive wake locks” in Android’s Vitals panel, assisting developers in identifying and correcting programs that secretly waste battery power in the background.

    For those who do not aware, “wake locks” are system-level capabilities that allow applications to keep your phone awake when in background operations. Although valid in some applications, such as music or navigation, overuse can severely deplete your Xiaomi device’s battery without providing any value in terms of how you view your experience.

    hyperos battery drain fix

    How Does Google’s New Tool Work?

    This approach is specifically designed for applications with active foreground processes that are running in the background. If such programs maintain a “wake lock” for more than three hours in a single 24-hour cycle, regulators consider them harmful. This accurate identification enables developers to address battery usage issues before they reach a large number of consumers.

    This methodology provides app developers with more realistic views of how their applications function in real-world circumstances rather than laboratory-like test scenarios.

    Partnership with Key Manufacturers

    Google is not operating alone in this initiative. The internet behemoth is working with key smartphone manufacturers like Samsung to define “good” performance in a more consistent manner across the Android platform.

    This collaboration aims to help developers create more optimized applications that run as easily as possible across a wide range of phone models from all brands, from Xiaomi’s large array of cheap options in Redmi to premium flagships in Mi.

    Android Future Plan for Optimisation

    This battery monitoring tool is just the beginning of Google’s multi-year strategy to provide developers with deeper insights into real-world app performance. Looking ahead, Google plans to:

    • Roll out more metrics for performance optimization
    • Develop and launch new battery life measurement tools.
    • Potentially release an updated Play Store to promote highly optimized apps

    For Xiaomi users who consider battery life to be an important feature, these innovations hold out hope for an era when third-party applications are more efficient to use under HyperOS and other Android-based platforms.

    What It Means for Xiaomi Users

    Xiaomi has continually focused energy optimization in its devices, including larger batteries and advanced power management in HyperOS. Google’s new developer tools support these efforts by addressing the software side of the problem, potentially improving Xiaomi phones’ outstanding battery life.

    The “excessive wake lock” monitoring tool is currently in the testing phase, with Google actively seeking developer feedback to improve its capabilities before a wider release.

  • Xiaomi announced the Android 16 Beta launch – which devices will get it?

    Xiaomi announced the Android 16 Beta launch – which devices will get it?

    For developers and Android enthusiasts alike, Google’s release of Android 16 Beta 4 marks a significant milestone as it is the first release candidate build prior to a consumer launch. Along with Honor, iQOO, Lenovo, OnePlus, OPPO, Realme, and Vivo, Xiaomi is among the fortunate ones to have access to the current beta, which is currently available on a variety of devices from various partner vendors, including phones, tablets, and foldable phones.

    It is interesting to note that on April 8, around ten days earlier, Xiaomi had released the same to its flagship Xiaomi 15 and 14T Pro phones. This shows how committed the firm is to providing early adoption of the newest Android innovations.

    Significant changes in Android 16 Beta 4

    Numerous bug fixes and performance enhancements that address issues found by both developers and users are included in the pre-release beta. In order to provide a seamless experience when Android 16 is formally released, Google has been working to increase stability.

    Key fixes in this release are:

    • Resolved the map disappearance bug in the Pixel’s Weather app Resolved problems of haptic performance and late feedback
    • Resolved excessive power consumption that impacted some devices Resolves system restart problems during call answering
    • Fixed display magnification stability issues
    • Corrected screen saver activation problems Fixed phone restart issues that occur while using the ranging API
    • Several system stability and performance enhancements, such as launcher crashes fixes
    Android 16 Beta launch

    Xiaomi amoung the first

    Xiaomi’s dedication to provide users with cutting-edge software experiences is demonstrated by its early release of Android 16 Beta 4. Xiaomi has taken the lead among Android innovators by releasing the beta for the Xiaomi 15 and 14T ten days before the official Google release.

    Early adoption by Xiaomi users offers them the following benefits:

    • Early availability of Android 16 enhancements and features
    • Additional time for users to give feedback and log issues
    • Chance to try the most stable pre-release version of Android 16

    The release is the final scheduled update before the Android 16 Beta program’s public launch, which is currently in its final stages.

  • Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Snapdragon 8s Gen 4

    Snapdragon 8 Elite vs Snapdragon 8s Gen 4

    The Snapdragon 8 Elite and Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 share a name but target completely distinct segments of the mobile industry. On paper, the 8 Elite is a standout. It is Qualcomm’s most sophisticated SoC, delivering maximum raw performance, AI intelligence, and multimedia capability.

    The 8s Gen 4 is a leaner, more economical processor that inherits features from its more powerful sister while making a few smart compromises.

    Whether you are attempting to decide whether the 8s Gen 4 will be “good enough” or whether you should stick with the full-fat 8 Elite, it is useful to consider how these two chipsets compare beyond the marketing headlines.

    Performance

    Custom silicon is at the center of this comparison, and the 8 Elite outperforms the competition. Qualcomm’s decision to use its own Oryon CPU cores in the 8 Elite is a significant move. These are not merely modifications to off-the-shelf ARM architectures; they are purpose-built, high-frequency (up to 4.47 GHz) powerhouses that provide up to 45% higher CPU performance and 44% better efficiency than the previous generation.

    The 8s Gen 4, on the other hand, employs the well-known Kryo cores, which are effectively optimized ARM cores. It has a Cortex-X4 prime core clocked at 3.2GHz and seven Cortex-A720 cores—three at 3.0GHz, two at 2.80GHz, and two at 2.02GHz.

    Qualcomm claims that this arrangement performs 31% better than its predecessor while consuming 39% less power. However, it should come as no surprise that it is not in the same category as the 8 Elite.

    Snapdragon 8 series

    AI and on chip capatibilities

    Both systems are designed with AI in mind, but there is a difference in scale. The Snapdragon 8 Elite employs a Hexagon NPU that provides higher performance per watt and supports a broader range of functions (INT4 to FP16). It also offers on-device personalization, multimodal AI processing, and the Sensing Hub, which provides improved context-aware features.

    The 8s Gen 4 also features a Hexagon NPU, which is no slouch. It gets a 2x memory boost, which improves memory bandwidth and efficiency. However, it lacks some of the Elite’s more advanced AI processing functions, such as higher-precision data support and Gen AI connectors for on-device assistants and real-time personalization.

    Graphics and gaming performance

    The 8 Elite is designed for high-performance mobile gaming. Its Adreno GPU boasts up to 40% faster performance and 40% greater power efficiency, according to a new “sliced architecture” that balances heat and battery depletion.

    It includes real-time hardware-accelerated ray tracing, Snapdragon Game Super Resolution 2.0, and Adreno Frame Motion Engine 2.0, which doubles frame speeds with little power consumption. Nanite also supports Unreal Engine 5.3, allowing developers to provide console-quality images to portable devices.

    Many of these capabilities, including as ray tracing, Game Super Resolution, and the Adaptive Performance Engine, are also supported by the 8s Gen 4. However, it does not include complete support for Unreal 5.3 or the Frame Motion Engine.

    The GPU in the 8s Gen 4 shares the same sliced architecture as the 8 Elite. It is merely that the former has two slices whereas the Elite chip has three, which creates a difference in performance.

    Connectivity

    ge Snapdragon X80 5G Modem RF S

    The 8 Elite includes Qualcomm’s top-tier Snapdragon X80 modem, which has peak download rates of 10Gbps and supports 6x carrier aggregation, dual SIM, and even UWB and Wi-Fi 7 with FastConnect 7900. It is also powered by Qualcomm’s 5G AI Suite Gen 3, which dynamically modifies connection parameters to save power and reduce latency.

    The 8s Gen 4 makes do with a lower-end Snapdragon 5G Modem-RF System. The top download speed is 4.2 Gbps, with a restricted 4×4 MIMO arrangement. Nonetheless, it offers Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0 via Qualcomm FastConnect, as well as support for Snapdragon Seamless for cross-device networking.

    Media and power

    The 8 Elite supports QHD+ screens at 240Hz, 8K external monitors, and the HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HDR Vivid formats. It also has Snapdragon Sound, aptX Lossless, and Quick Charge 5 for faster charging.

    The 8s Gen 4 supports the majority of these features, including Snapdragon Sound, HDR video formats, Wi-Fi audio (XPAN), and Quick Charge 5, but does not support external 8K screens.

    Specs comparison

    SpecSnapdragon 8 EliteSnapdragon 8s Gen 4
    Architecture3nm4nm
    CPU Core Configuration– Custom Oryon CPU @ up to 4.47GHz
    – 64-bit architecture
    – Kryo CPU
    – 64-bit architecture– Clock speed up to 3.2GHz
    GPUAdreno 830Adreno 825
    NPU (AI Engine)– Hexagon NPU
    – Supports INT4, INT8, INT16, FP16
    – On-device personalization, fused AI, Micro Tile Inferencing
    – Hexagon NPU
    – Supports INT4, INT8
    – 2x larger shared memory for bandwidth boosts
    Memory TypeLPDDR5X @ 5.3GHzLPDDR5X @ 4800 MHz
    ModemSnapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF System
    – Up to 10 Gbps download
    – 3.5 Gbps upload
    – 8-carrier mmWave, 4×6 MIMO Sub-6
    Snapdragon 5G Modem-RF System
    – Up to 4.2 Gbps download
    – Likely 3.5 Gbps upload
    – 4×4 MIMO Sub-6
    Connectivity– Wi-Fi 7 (FastConnect 7900)
    – Bluetooth 6.0
    – UWB
    – AI-optimized Wi-Fi, XPAN, HBS Multi-Link
    – Wi-Fi 7 (FastConnect platform)
    – Bluetooth 6.0
    – UWB
    – XPAN, HBS Multi-Link
    ISPSpectra 18-bit Triple AI ISP
    – Real-time AI Relighting
    – Ultra Low-Light video
    – Truepic capture with C2PA
    – Video Object Eraser
    Spectra 18-bit Triple AI ISP
    – Night Vision 2.0 (4K@30fps)
    – Real-time skin/sky tone correction
    – Always-sensing camera
    Display SupportUp to QHD+ @ 240Hz (on-device)
    8K @ 30Hz (external)
    HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 10-bit Rec. 2020
    Up to WQHD+ @ 144Hz (on-device)
    4K @ 60Hz (external)
    HDR10+, Dolby Vision, 10-bit Rec. 2020
    Video Playback8K @ 60fps
    Supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, AV1, H.265
    8K @ 60fps
    Supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, AV1, H.265
    Camera Support– Up to 320MP single camera
    – 48+48+48 MP triple (ZSL)
    – 8K video capture @ 30fps
    – Video Super Resolution
    – Up to 320MP single camera
    – 36 MP triple (ZSL)
    – 4K video capture @ 60fps
    – Motion Compensated Temporal Filtering
    ChargingQuick Charge 5Quick Charge 5
    Security– Qualcomm SPU
    – 3D Sonic Sensor Max
    – Face, Fingerprint, Iris, Voice
    – Type-1 Hypervisor
    – Qualcomm TEE
    – 3D Sonic Sensor Max
    – Face & Fingerprint
    – Type-1 Hypervisor
    StorageUFS 4.0UFS 4.0
    USBUSB 3.1 Gen2 (USB-C)USB 3.1 Gen2 (USB-C)

    At the end of the day, the Snapdragon 8 Elite is a no-compromise SoC designed for devices that want to be the best in everything. Whether it is gaming, camera, connection, or AI functionality.

    In contrast, the 8s Gen 4 streamlines many of those premium experiences. It will power more cheap high-end devices (such as $500-$800 phones) while maintaining competitive gaming, AI, and photography capabilities for the majority of customers.

    In short, the 8 Elite is the chip for those who want it all. The 8s Gen 4 is the model to choose if you want just enough.

  • Should You Start a New League of Legends Account in 2025?

    Should You Start a New League of Legends Account in 2025?

    League of Legends has captivated gamers for over a decade, yet as 2025 unfolds, you might wonder: Is it worth starting fresh with a new account, or should I keep playing on my initial account? Whether you’re an experienced player considering a smurf account or a newcomer eager to dive into the game, there are compelling reasons and challenges to weigh before hitting that “Play for Free” button.

    Why Players Start Fresh

    unnamed 7

    Creating a new League of Legends account isn’t just about resetting your stats; it’s about redefining your experience. Here are some common motivations:

    • Testing New Strategies: A fresh account lets players experiment with different champion pools, roles, and off-meta builds without affecting their main account’s stats or rank. Imagine dedicating yourself entirely to mastering jungle or ADC without distractions or compromises.
    • Escaping Penalties: Whether it’s chat restrictions or ranked bans, some players opt for a clean slate rather than waiting for penalties to expire. Starting anew can be a shortcut to bypassing those frustrations.
    • Smurfing: For seasoned players, smurf accounts offer the thrill of climbing ranks from scratch or playing in lower-tier games for less competitive stress. However, smurfing remains controversial in the community due to its impact on matchmaking balance.
    • Region-Specific Play: League accounts are region-locked. If you’ve moved to another country or want to play with friends on a different server, creating a new account may be more practical than paying for a server transfer.

    The Grind: What You’re Signing Up For

    unnamed 8

    Starting fresh isn’t all fun and games; it’s also a grind, and Riot Games imposes several restrictions on new accounts that make the journey to competitiveness an uphill battle:

    FeatureLimitation on New Accounts
    ChampionsOnly a handful available at first
    Ranked ModeLocked until level 30
    Rune Pages & MasteriesLimited customization
    Summoner SpellsKey spells unlock gradually

    Reaching level 30 in League of Legends is a prerequisite for ranked play and takes dozens of games. Even with XP boosts, this process can feel like an endurance test. Add the slow accumulation of Blue Essence (BE) needed to unlock champions, and you’re looking at weeks (or months) of grinding before your account becomes competitive.

    What’s New in 2025?

    unnamed 9

    League of Legends has introduced significant updates this season that could influence your decision to start anew:

    • Feats of Strength System: This innovative mechanic rewards players for completing early-game objectives, offering buffs like the “Blessing of Noxus” that enhance gameplay dynamics. It’s perfect for those who enjoy strategic depth.
    • Noxus-Themed Visuals: The game’s map now reflects darker, metallic aesthetics tied to Noxian lore. If you’re drawn to immersive storytelling and thematic updates, this might make starting fresh more enticing.
    • Revamped Ranked Structure: The competitive ladder now resets annually, making it easier for new and old players to climb ranks without feeling overwhelmed by legacy placements.

    However, not all changes have been warmly received. Riot Games has faced criticism for monetization strategies that push in-game purchases over organic progression. If you’re starting fresh in 2025, be prepared for potential frustrations tied to these updates.

    Alternatives to Starting Fresh

    unnamed 10

    If the grind sounds daunting, but you’re still craving a new start, consider these options:

    • Buy an Unlocked Account: Services like BoostRoyal offer fully unlocked accounts with pre-selected champions and skins. While this skips the grind entirely, it comes with risks—Riot Games doesn’t officially endorse these third-party sellers.
    • Server Transfers: If your goal is simply to play in another region, paying for a server transfer might be more practical than creating a new account.

    Should You Do It?

    Ultimately, whether you should start a new League of Legends account depends on your goals:

    Yes, if:

    • You enjoy the challenge of building an account from scratch.
    • You want to experiment with new strategies or roles.
    • You need access to another region or server.

    No, if:

    • You’re deterred by the grind required to unlock champions and reach ranked play.
    • You already have an established account with significant progress.
    • You’re frustrated by Riot Games’ monetization strategies.

    Final Thoughts

    Starting fresh in League of Legends in 2025 is both an opportunity and a commitment. While the game’s updates add exciting layers of strategy and lore, they highlight the challenges of building a competitive account from scratch. If you’re ready to embrace the grind—or willing to explore faster alternatives- perhaps it’s time to hit reset and rediscover what makes League so addictive.

    What are your thoughts? Are you ready for the grind or leaning toward alternative options? Let us know in the comments below! And if you’re looking for tips on leveling up fast or unlocking champions efficiently, check out our League guides.