Articles tagged with "mobile-technology"
Samsung unveils smallest 200MP camera sensor for smartphones
At CES 2026, Samsung Semiconductor introduced the ISOCELL HP5, the smallest 200-megapixel image sensor designed for smartphones. Measuring about half the size of a penny with 0.5-micrometer pixels, the sensor fits into a 1/1.56-inch optical format typically used for 50-megapixel sensors. This allows smartphone manufacturers to upgrade to 200MP cameras without redesigning existing camera modules, enabling slimmer camera bumps and easier adoption for premium devices. The sensor supports 8K video recording at 30fps, targeting users seeking professional-grade imaging on mobile devices. To overcome challenges associated with shrinking pixel size, Samsung implemented advanced pixel engineering, including a Deep Trench Isolation Center Cut design and High Sensitivity DTI technology, which improve pixel separation and light absorption. The sensor maintains strong Full Well Capacity and delivers consistent image quality even in low light. It also features 13-bit output for high dynamic range, enabling richer color representation and simultaneous long and
materialssemiconductorimage-sensormobile-technologycamera-sensorpixel-engineeringhigh-dynamic-rangePlanning to buy iPhone 18? Apple may delay the base model until 2027
Apple is reportedly planning to change its traditional annual iPhone release cycle by extending the lifecycle of its base iPhone models to 18 months. Starting with the iPhone 18, which may be delayed until spring 2027, Apple will split its iPhone launches into two phases: premium models will continue to debut in the fall, while standard and lower-cost models will arrive several months later. This shift marks the first time in over a decade that Apple might go a full year without releasing a new base iPhone generation, allowing more time for each model to remain relevant and reducing internal competition between Pro and non-Pro devices. In early 2026, Apple plans to introduce the iPhone 17e, a budget-friendly addition to the iPhone 17 family featuring upgrades like the A19 chip, Dynamic Island design, smaller bezels, and a front camera with Center Stage support, but retaining a single rear camera and lacking Pro-level display features. Meanwhile, the premium iPhone 18 Pro
IoTsmartphonesApplemobile-technology5Gchip-technologyfoldable-deviceseSIM adoption is on the rise thanks to travel and device compatibility
eSIM technology, despite being available for over a decade, had a modest global adoption rate of around 3% last year, expected to surpass 5% this year. However, industry analysts, startups, and investors remain optimistic about its growth, largely driven by increased travel and expanding device compatibility. The adoption has been boosted by major phone manufacturers like Apple and Google integrating eSIM features into their devices, with Apple notably releasing an eSIM-only iPhone 17 model in multiple countries. Smartphone penetration with eSIM capabilities reached 23% in 2024, with the U.S. leading at 41%. While initially a feature of premium devices, eSIM is gradually appearing in mid- and low-range smartphones, especially as Chinese manufacturers such as Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo begin supporting eSIM following China's telecom providers' recent rollout of eSIM services. Travel is a significant catalyst for eSIM adoption, with over half of eSIM users employing it for connectivity while abroad, appreciating its
IoTeSIMmobile-technologyconnectivitysmartphonestelecomtravel-technologyGoogle Pixel update adds battery-saving maps mode, AI photo remixing, and smarter notifications
Google’s November Pixel Drop update introduces several new features aimed at enhancing user experience and device efficiency for Pixel phones. Key additions include a notification summary feature for longer chats on Pixel 9 and newer models, with plans to roll out a low-priority notification silencing option in December. A new low-power mode for the Maps app, exclusive to Pixel 10 series users, reduces battery consumption by darkening the screen and displaying only essential navigation details, potentially extending battery life by up to four hours. The update also expands Google’s scam detection capabilities, now available in multiple countries including the U.K., Ireland, India, Australia, and Canada, with a “Likely a scam” button added to message notifications. Google enhances photo editing with an AI-powered Remix feature in Messages, allowing users to creatively reimagine photos using prompts, available in several English-speaking countries with RCS enabled. Additionally, Google Photos gains an AI-driven “Help me edit” tool that applies specific edits to recognized faces. Other
energybattery-savingpower-managementmobile-technologyAI-photo-editingnotificationsGoogle-PixelApple reportedly plans ambitious satellite-powered iPhone features
Apple is reportedly developing a range of advanced satellite-powered features for the iPhone beyond its current capabilities of satellite texting and calling. Upcoming enhancements include an API for app developers to integrate satellite connectivity, an offline version of Apple Maps for navigation without cellular or WiFi access, the ability to send photos via satellite messaging, and improved “natural usage” that allows satellite connection without the phone needing to be directly pointed at the sky. These innovations aim to significantly enhance iPhone usability in areas lacking traditional cellular coverage. Additionally, Apple is exploring improvements to 5G networks by enabling them to connect with satellites, potentially expanding network coverage. While basic satellite features are expected to remain free, users may incur charges from carriers for more advanced services. Apple is also collaborating with its satellite partner, Globalstar, to upgrade the necessary infrastructure, with Apple providing financial support to facilitate these enhancements.
IoTsatellite-communicationmobile-technology5G-networksAppleconnectivitywireless-technologyWorld’s first Robot Phone by Honor moves and emotes like 'Wall-E'
Honor unveiled a concept for the world’s first “Robot Phone,” a device that combines AI, robotics, and mobile technology to create a new category of smartphone. Unlike traditional phones, this concept features a gimbal-mounted camera that can move independently, swivel, and express emotions through sounds and movements reminiscent of characters like Wall-E and BB-8. Honor describes the Robot Phone as an “emotional companion” capable of sensing, adapting, and evolving autonomously to enrich users’ lives with emotional engagement, aiming to redefine human-machine interaction. The Robot Phone concept hints at a future where AI is given a visible, expressive form to make digital assistants more approachable and comfortable to interact with, moving beyond voice commands alone. The device’s robotic camera and personality-driven features build on earlier innovations like flip-up cameras but add a layer of AI-powered motion and emotional expression. Currently, the Robot Phone exists only as a CGI concept with no physical prototype or detailed specs released. Honor plans to share more information and potentially reveal
robotAIroboticsmobile-technologyhuman-machine-interactionemotional-AIsmart-devicesThe iPhone Air is so light, I forgot it was in my pocket
The iPhone Air, Apple’s thinnest phone at just 5.64 millimeters and notably light at 12 grams less than the iPhone 17, impresses with its sleek, exquisite design and comfortable handling despite its large 6.5-inch screen. Its thinness makes it easy to carry—often forgotten in a pocket—and sturdy enough to withstand minor drops and accidental pressure without damage. While the phone’s build invites use without a case to preserve its slim profile, Apple offers a lightweight bumper case and a shoulder strap accessory for added protection. However, the iPhone Air’s slimness comes with trade-offs, particularly in battery life and camera capabilities. The phone tends to heat up during intensive gaming or video streaming, and while its battery suffices for moderate daily tasks like calls, video watching, and browsing, heavy users may need Apple’s $99 MagSafe battery pack to comfortably last through the day. The camera system is limited to a single 48-megapixel rear
IoTsmartphonesbattery-lifeMagSafemobile-technologyAppleportable-devicesOnePlus 15 flaunts dune-esque Sand Storm color and 7,300mAh battery
The OnePlus 15 introduces a significant design shift for the brand, featuring a flat-sided frame with softened edges and a new corner-placed square camera module, replacing the previous large circular bumps. It debuts a unique "Sand Storm" finish—a dune-inspired color blending sand and stone tones—alongside classic black and white options. The phone's fiberglass back and ceramic-coated metal frame enhance durability, making it over three times stronger than aluminum and tougher than titanium. The device retains a physical SIM card tray but removes the traditional three-position alert slider, replacing it with a customizable “Plus Key” for user-defined shortcuts. Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, the OnePlus 15 offers improved speed and efficiency, complemented by a 165Hz display and the first Android support for always-on 120fps gaming, ensuring smooth and immersive performance. A standout feature is its large 7,300mAh battery, significantly bigger than competitors like the iPhone 17 Pro Max
energybattery-technologysmartphone-designmaterials-sciencedurabilitymobile-technologyQualcomm-SnapdragonApple debuts the $999 ultra-thin iPhone Air
Apple has introduced the iPhone Air, a new ultra-thin and lightweight model priced at $999, replacing the iPhone Plus in its 2025 lineup after the iPhone 16 Plus underperformed. The iPhone Air features a titanium frame and measures just 5.6 millimeters thick, making it thinner than current iPhones and competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge. It sports a large 6.6-inch 120Hz ProMotion display and is powered by the A19 Pro chip, matching the performance of the Pro and Pro Max models. The device is e-SIM-only, enhancing its sleek design and security. Despite concerns about battery life and camera capabilities, Apple unveiled a new 48-megapixel fusion camera system and assured all-day battery life. The iPhone Air benefits from iOS 26’s Adaptive Power Mode, which intelligently manages power usage, and comes with new accessories such as a slim MagSafe battery pack offering up to 40 hours of video playback
materialssmartphonebattery-lifetitanium-framee-SIMmobile-technologyAppleApple debuts the ultra-thin iPhone Air
Apple has introduced the iPhone Air, its thinnest and lightest iPhone model to date, replacing the Plus model in the 2025 lineup following the iPhone 16 Plus's underperformance. The iPhone Air emphasizes ultra-thin design and lightness, featuring a titanium frame that weighs around 145 grams and measures just over 5.5 millimeters thick—making it thinner than current iPhones and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge. It sports a large 6.6-inch display with a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate and is powered by the A19 Pro chip, offering enhanced performance compared to the base iPhone 17. Color options include space black, cloud white, light gold, and light blue. The iPhone Air draws inspiration from Apple’s MacBook Air strategy, which initially faced criticism for cost and performance but eventually became a top seller due to its portability and improved iterations. Similarly, the iPhone Air may set a new standard for future iPhones
materialssmartphone-designtitanium-framemobile-technologyApple-iPhonedevice-thinnessconsumer-electronicsiPhone 17, the ‘thinnest iPhone ever,’ and everything else we’re expecting out of Apple’s hardware event
Apple is expected to hold its annual hardware event on September 9, unveiling the iPhone 17 lineup alongside updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods. The iPhone 17 series will include the standard iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max models, featuring notable upgrades such as a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen for the base model with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 24-megapixel front camera, and new color options like purple and green. The Pro models may see a redesign of the rear camera layout into a rectangular bar spanning the device’s width, with the Apple logo centered for aesthetic balance. The iPhone 17 Pro might switch from a titanium to an aluminum frame to reduce weight and cost, while the Pro Max is expected to have a thicker body to house a larger battery. Pricing rumors suggest the iPhone 17 at around $800, the Pro at $1,050, and the Pro Max at $1,250
materialssmartphonesAppleiPhone-17battery-technologydevice-designmobile-technologyiPhone 17, the ‘thinnest iPhone ever,’ and everything else we’re expecting out of Apple’s hardware event
Apple is expected to hold its annual hardware event on September 9, unveiling the iPhone 17 lineup alongside updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods. The iPhone 17 series will include the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max, with notable changes such as a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen on the base model, a 120Hz display, and a 24-megapixel front camera. The Pro models may feature a redesigned rear camera layout with three lenses arranged in a rectangular bar and a centered Apple logo. A significant material change is anticipated for the iPhone 17 Pro, potentially replacing the titanium band with aluminum to reduce cost and weight. The Pro Max model is expected to be thicker to accommodate a larger battery. Pricing rumors suggest the base iPhone 17 will start around $800, the Pro at $1,050, and the Pro Max at $1,250, with fewer storage options available compared to the previous generation.
materialssmartphonesAppleiPhone-17battery-technologydevice-designmobile-technology