For many smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, Huawei has issued a stable HarmonyOS 6 software upgrade that gives consumers who weren’t in the beta program new features.
With this new release, HarmonyOS has excelled in the quality mode, which means the upgrade focuses on fundamental issues such as performance and a better app experience.
HarmonyOS 6-powered Mate 80 Pro Max boasts up to 42% performance leap over the Huawei Mate 70 Pro+ (HarmonyOS 5). This leap is based on the chipset, because to the close coordination between software and hardware
The software for earlier models, including flagship and mid-range handsets, has also been adjusted by the business. Therefore, we can expect some upgrades over the older version. Below, you can check all Huawei devices in the first batch receiving the stable HarmonyOS 6 software update.
Mate 70 series
Mate 60 series
Mate X6 series
Mate X5 series
Pura 80 series
Pura 70 series
Pura X series
Pocket 2 series
Nova 14 series
Nova 13 series
Nova 12 series
Nova Flip
Nova Flip S
MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2025
MatePad Pro 13.2-inch 2023 Series
MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2024 Series
MatePad Pro 11-inch 2024
MateBook Fold Ultimate Design
MateBook Pro
FreeBuds 6
FreeArc
Huawei Router Q7
Huawei Smart Door Lock 2 Series
You should know that the software is being served for HarmonyOS 5 and HarmonyOS 6 beta users. Huawei formally declared that the total number of HarmonyOS 5 and 6 installations has surpassed 100,000 devices at the Mate 80 series launch event.
Furthermore, the HarmonyOS operating system is supported by the app, which has over 300,000 programs and meta-services via the AppGallery platform. The Chinese market and consumers’ excitement for the most recent Huawei software updates have been the main drivers of this expansion.
Along with yesterday’s Google Black Friday sale, which featured the Pixel Watch 4 at up to $100 off and the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro lines at up to $300 off, the early Samsung Black Friday bargains and Amazon offers are already in full force. However, today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break has even more to check out. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is currently available for $280 during Black Friday, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 can be purchased for up to $400 and the Galaxy S25 Ultra for $350.
These deals also coincide with the current OnePlus Black Friday sale, which gives up to $200 off many of the company’s most recent releases, a new Amazon all-time low on the Nothing Headphone (1), and up to 52% off a variety of Samsung monitors. Take a look at everything below.
Official 2025 Google Black Friday Deals Go Live: Big Savings on Pixel Watch 4, Pixel 10, and More
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Black Friday deals now live from $280
With massive price reductions on its most recent Galaxy launches, including $400 off the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and $350 off the flagship Galaxy S25 Ultra, Samsung’s official Black Friday week is already underway. However, this also means that the most reasonably priced current-generation Galaxy Watch 8 is currently available for $70 off the retail price thanks to Black Friday promotions.
Although we were able to get select Galaxy Watch 8 combinations at Woot for $100 off, there weren’t many color options available, and the bargain didn’t come with a valid warranty. However, as of right now, Samsung has reduced the price of all configurations by a significant $70:
With the exception of the Woot offer and YMMV/EDU reductions, the prices we are seeing below are, as compared to Amazon, the lowest straight-up cash discounts since release. The lowest prices we have seen on Amazon are obtained by matching these deal prices.
Check out our Black Friday Samsung coverage below, as well as the $350 price reduction on the flagship Galaxy S25 Ultra:
The official Black Friday sale for OnePlus has begun. The company told us that their major event sale is currently underway, with sales anticipated to continue through Cyber Monday if inventory permits. With the exception of the brand-new OnePlus 15, which is now in a launch holding pattern, almost everything in the sale is now down even more than we saw during Prime Day and the Halloween event, with savings of up to $200. This covers all of its most recent launches as well as a few new low-end devices, such as the OnePlus Watch 3 (43mm) and OnePlus Buds Pro 3. Take a look at everything below.
This time, promo codes are required; everything is simply marked down and operational. In addition to one of the greatest cash discounts to date on the OnePlus Pad 3 at $120 off, we are looking at outright $200 price reductions on OnePlus 13 variants.
Just be sure to keep an eye out for the free gifts that are offered on certain items; scroll down on the corresponding listing pages to make sure you take advantage of the freebies when you can:
The Vivo X Fold5 sets a new standard for folding smartphones by fusing cutting-edge technology, stylish design, and potent performance. This phone, which combines the greatest features of regular and foldable phones, is perfect for tech-savvy users, professionals, and entertainment aficionados who value both design and productivity.
Exclusive Discount
Get the Vivo X Fold5 at GeekWills for a special $50 discount for a short period of time by using the coupon code XFD5. Don’t pass up this fantastic deal on Vivo’s high-end foldable smartphone; it’s only available till July 30.
The Vivo X Fold5 has a high-end construction and a seamless, stylish, and long-lasting folding mechanism. A huge 8.03-inch OLED LTPO 8T display with a high resolution of 2480 x 2200 pixels is revealed as it opens up, offering a clear and colorful visual experience. Because of this, it’s ideal for multitasking on a wide canvas, reading, and watching videos. The 6.53-inch outside AMOLED display, which has a resolution of 2748 x 1172, guarantees easy access for daily use without opening the device when folded. Both displays have outstanding clarity and vibrant colors, and the fold is made to last through frequent use without breaking.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which powers the Vivo X Fold5, provides quick and effective performance. The processor and up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM guarantee seamless performance whether you’re multitasking between windows, playing demanding apps, or playing intensive games. With 256GB to 1TB of onboard storage, there is more than enough room for apps, pictures, and videos. Additionally, it has a strong dual-cell 6000mAh battery that can be charged at 80W wired and 40W wireless rates. It can be charged to 50% capacity in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for those who are constantly on the go.
Versatile Camera Setup for All Scenarios
The Vivo X Fold5 has three 50MP cameras on the back, making it a strong camera system. It has an ultra-wide-angle lens with a 120° field of view, a primary ultra-sensitive camera, and a professional portrait camera with up to 100x digital and 3x optical zoom. This phone offers amazing clarity and detail whether you’re taking close-ups, landscapes, or portraits. Whether the phone is open or folded, the two 20MP front cameras (one on each side) guarantee excellent results for selfies and video calls.
The Vivo X Fold5 provides a clear and snappy user experience because to its Funtouch OS, which is based on Android 15. Both work and play are improved by features like sophisticated facial recognition, stylus support, and split-screen multitasking. The smartphone is future-ready for worldwide connectivity since it also supports 5G, dual SIM, and eSIM. An additional degree of convenience and security is provided by the side fingerprint unlock feature.
With its high-end hardware and well-considered features, the Vivo X Fold5 offers a premium folding experience. Depending on your demands, this multipurpose gadget can be used as a dependable daily driver, a little tablet, or a strong camera tool.
Vivo X Fold5 specs:
Main Display: 8.03-inch OLED LTPO 8T, 2480 × 2200 resolution
For Google, the Pixel 9 series marked a significant turning point. With a fresh design, robust software support, and an extensive array of practical AI functions, it signaled the company’s transition into a reputable flagship smartphone manufacturer.
But the Pixel 9 has been out for about a year now. The Pixel 10 series is now ready to take center stage.
The Pixel 10 series is anticipated to be introduced at Google’s Made by Google event on August 20, 2025, which Google formally confirmed on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
Here’s how to watch the Pixel 10 launch event live, along with the precise time, date, location, and announcements to anticipate.
When and how to watch the Google Pixel 10 launch event
On August 20, 2025, Google’s Pixel 10 series launch event will begin at 1 PM ET (10 AM PT).
Google used to release Pixel smartphones in September, following Apple’s iPhone event. Nevertheless, the firm shifted its calendar to August with the Pixel 9, and the Pixel 10 is now operating on the same timetable.
For those of us who can’t make it, Google will broadcast the unveiling, even though it will take place in person.
Here is a list of global time zones so you know exactly when to tune in, even though the event starts at 1 PM ET in New York:
Time zone
Start time
Date
New York (ET)
1:00 PM
August 20, 2025
Los Angeles (PT)
10:00 AM
August 20, 2025
London (BST)
6:00 PM
August 20, 2025
Central Europe (CEST)
7:00 PM
August 20, 2025
India (IST)
10:30 PM
August 20, 2025
China (CST)
1:00 AM
August 21, 2025
Japan (JST)
2:00 AM
August 21, 2025
Sydney (AEST)
3:00 AM
August 21, 2025
You may watch the event on any of your devices, including laptops, gaming consoles, cellphones, and smart TVs, since Google will be livestreaming it on YouTube as usual.
You can either tap the Notify me button to receive a reminder or save the keynote to your Watch Later playlist when the YouTube page goes live. A few minutes prior to the commencement of the event, you will receive a notification from the YouTube app.
Your local time for the event will also be displayed in the stream listing. When the official keynote video is live, we’ll embed it above, so be sure to return.
What we can anticipate from the Made by Google this year
The new Pixel 10 series will undoubtedly be the main attraction.
The Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Google’s third-generation foldable smartphone, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, are all anticipated to be part of the same range as the Pixel 9.
The Pixel 10 lineup isn’t anticipated to receive a significant visual makeover, as Google has already updated the Pixel’s design language with the Pixel 9 series. Instead, the phones’ designs will probably stay similar to those of the previous year.
But some significant improvements are anticipated.
Most importantly, it has been speculated that the base Pixel 10 would (finally) include a telephoto zoom lens, something that Pixel owners have long wanted.
This implies that a triple-camera configuration – possibly comprising a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 10.8MP telephoto lens – will probably be included in the base model.
A larger 4,970 mAh battery (up from 4,700 mAh on the Pixel 9) and somewhat quicker cable charging at 29W (a tiny increase from 27W on the previous generation) are other anticipated features of the Pixel 10.
Speaking of batteries, it is anticipated that the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL would come with bigger cells than previous models. It has been reported that the Pixel 10 Pro XL will have the largest battery in a Pixel phone, with a capacity of 5,200 mAh.
The Pro models might start at greater base storage tiers this time around, even if the camera systems are anticipated to mostly stay the same as the previous generation.
The Pixel 10 Pro XL may cost $100 more than its predecessor, according to certain speculations.
It looks like Google is working on some significant improvements for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
Although there are rumors that it may have a larger 6.4-inch cover display, the smartphone will feel exactly as small in the hand because of a better hinge.
Additionally, a larger battery and an IP68 rating are anticipated for the foldable. However, the Tensor G5 processor will probably be the most significant improvement throughout the whole Pixel 10 family.
According to reports, Google and TSMC have teamed up to produce the Tensor G5 for the Pixel 10 series.
According to reports, the chipset is based on the 3nm technology, which should increase efficiency over Samsung’s Tensor G4.
This might seem like a small change, but it could have a big impact on sustained performance and power efficiency.
At the Made by Google event, Google is anticipated to reveal the Pixel Watch 4 in addition to the Pixel 10 series.
According to reports, the Pixel Watch 4 will have new buttons and even smaller bezels than the Pixel Watch 3, while yet maintaining the same spherical appearance.
More significantly, the Pixel Watch 4 series is expected to provide a much-needed advance in strength training, complete with Workout Builder and real-time workout coaching.
This would at last establish the Pixel Watch as a viable choice for athletes seeking a specialized health-tracking gadget.
There are reports that Google may release the Pixel Buds 2a to complete the product lineup.
The first Pixel Buds A were released more than four years ago, and it appears that Google is now prepared to update its reasonably priced earbuds.
Better ANC, longer battery life, and four color options are possible features of the Pixel Buds 2a.
Overall, it looks like Google will have a crowded event for the second year in a row.
Expect news on Gemini and Android 16 features, like as the upgrade that makes Material 3 Expressive available on all devices, as is customary with Google keynotes. ,
The OnePlus Open and OPPO Find N3 are the same smartphone, according to CEO Pete Lau, and we recently received our first official glimpse at it via a well-known YouTube channel. Another YouTuber has now been given access to the phone, and in this video, we can see the phone’s main display in detail as well as how it measures up against the Galaxy Z Fold 5.
In a video published by Jagat Review, we see the Open/Find N3 up close once more. But exactly like previously, a piece of paper has been placed over the camera equipment.
The Open/Find N3 is almost as thick as Samsung’s foldable when placed side by side with the Galaxy Z Fold 5. When opened up, it is a little bit wider than the Fold 5. There isn’t much more to learn about the exterior of the phone besides that. Once the device is opened, though, something does stand out.
We see the primary display several times in the video. There is a screen crease there to welcome you, just like on any other foldable phone. The display wrinkle on the Galaxy Z Fold 5 appears to be much less noticeable when compared to the Open/Find N3, though. In contrast, Samsung’s foldable’s screen wrinkle resembles almost a valley.
Additionally, we know that the hinge on the Open/Find N3 is 37% smaller than the one in the Find N2. Lau has also boasted that the hinge uses 31 fewer components than before.
It won’t be much longer before the OnePlus Open comes out, with an expected launch date of October 19. With 10 days left, we’ll see if any new leaks come out before the launch.
It has always been difficult to find cases for folding phones, but with the Google Pixel Fold, we can skip the hassles of older cases and get right to reliable, secure protection. Manufacturers have jumped right into production of their Pixel Fold cases after years of continuously improving Samsung Z Fold series cases.
For Google’s most avant-garde phone yet, we’ve got the finest of the best—from clear to crushproof, from heavy-duty to hotly designed.
Poetic Spartan for Pixel FoldBest overallI’m not gonna mince words: this is a chunky case. This absolute unit features a heavy-duty hinge protector, a kickstand built into the back (rather than the hinge), and a claim of 20-foot impact resistance. This kickstand should work whether your Fold is closed or open. Though when it’s open, you’ll want to rotate the Fold from landscape to vertical.$60 at Amazon
Casetify Impact Case for Pixel FoldPremium pickIs this Pixel Fold Case expensive for only having four-foot drop protection and no hinge cover? Yeah. Is it the most stylish Pixel Fold case you can buy right now? Yup. From hundreds of designs to upcoming Co-Lab collections, from custom cases to iconic artwork, Casetify’s gallery ensures everyone can find something they like. If you don’t like the black bumper, Casetify also has a Clear option.$72 at Casetify
Caseology Parallax for Pixel FoldBest valueMost manufacturers charge 30-100% more for a foldable phone’s case — they’re harder to design and use more materials — but Caseology keeps it classy and affordable with the Parallax. It might not have a kickstand or color choices, but it gives this Pixel Fold case exactly what it needs: grip and some basic impact resistance. The sculpting around the buttons also makes it easier to open the Pixel Fold.$25 at Amazon
Case-Mate Tough Plus for Pixel FoldFeels like one solid caseMost folding cases are two completely separate pieces that you have to hope and pray line up perfectly on your Pixel Fold. Case-Mate’s Tough Plus is one of the few Pixel Fold cases that feels like one modulated case rather than two distinctly separate halves. Case-Mate also claims it can withstand up to 16-foot drops, but the polish of this case alone is worth the price of admission.$50 at Amazon
VRS Design Terra Guard Modern Go for Pixel FoldThere’s no sugarcoating the thickness of this cover, being a card slot case on top of a heavy-duty Pixel Fold case. If you’re looking to ditch the billfold and just carry everything all in one, the Terra Guard is one of the few wallet options for this phone. We wish there were a teeny bit more space inside the slot for cash on top of cards, but it’s workable.$50 at Amazon
Spigen Ultra Hybrid for Pixel FoldAs far as clear Pixel Fold cases go, it’s hard to beat the Spigen Ultra Hybrid. Though it lacks a hinged cover, this slim case will put that wonderful, creamy Porcelain on full display while staying slim and manageable while holding. Because there are no moving parts to this case, you can actually lay the Fold flat on a tablet without it turning into a seesaw for fairies.$45 at Amazon
Google Official Case for Pixel FoldThe track record of Google’s first-party cases has been a bit circumspect over the last couple of years, but its official Pixel Fold case breaks from the flimsy translucent cases with simple silicone slipperiness. Although we’ll have to test this one thoroughly, Google touts its stain resistance and texture — two areas previously struggled with. One thing’s for sure: Google nailed the colors.$60 at Google Store
Tudia DualShield for Pixel FoldTudia’s initial images for the DualShield had it completely covering the power button — and thus the fingerprint sensor — but it seems Tudia has remedied this mistake. The cutout for the power button is slim but should be enough to get a decent read while pulling the phone out of your pocket. It also comes in four striking colorways.$43 at Amazon
Otterbox Thin Flex for Pixel Fold$48$60Save $12At this time, OtterBox only offers the Thin Flex series for the Pixel Fold, a welcome compromise between a bold bumper case and a classic clear case. The edges on a clear case often end up looking ugly, especially if adhesives are involved, so covering these harsh realities is a good call. I do wish there were more color options, though.See at Amazon$48 at Otterbox
VRS Design Simpli Fit for Pixel FoldWhile available in solid green and black, the clear VRS Simpli Fit shows the Pixel Fold’s matte glass exterior and thus is vastly superior. Clear cases with hinge covers are usually a bit messy, but VRS Design keeps things sturdy and clean. The cutout around the power button could use a little extra room for scanning fingerprints, but it should be fine most of the time.$40 at Amazon
Spigen Slim Armor Pro for Pixel FoldThe Slim Armor Pro’s normal construction makes it almost feels stale on normal slab phones, but its folding hinge cover adds just enough flair to keep it interesting. The hinge cover here is a bit slimmer than those found on VRS Design and Poetic’s cases, making it a less awkward handhold while using the Fold’s inner screen. For this price, the lack of kickstand stings.$85 at Amazon
dbrand Grip for Pixel Fold$60$80Save $20Dbrand offers some of the best cases on the market, and they are bringing that expertise to the Galaxy Fold. At just 2mm thick and with military-grade drop protection, the case makes you feel confident that your phone will be well protected without any extra bulk. To prevent you from dropping it, this case consists of thousands of tiny ridges for maximum grip. It also comes with a built-in kickstand for enhanced viewing pleasure.$60 at dbrand
Ghostek Covert for Pixel FoldThe Ghostek Covert case for the Pixel Fold offers a lot of protection in some fantastic colorways. While there are nine colors to choose from, six of those colors are available in limited quantities. So if you want to be unique, make sure you don’t hesitate. This case offers eight feet of drop protection, is scratch resistant, and has raised edges to keep the display and camera lenses free of scratches. $40 at Ghostek
Whitestone Dome Escudo for Pixel FoldThe Whitestone Dome Escudo case offers complete device protection for the Pixel Fold. In addition to protecting the Fold’s body, the Escudo case protects the hinge and comes with a built-in screen protector. It is wireless charging compatible, allowing you to use your favorite charging mat or the power share feature. With precise port cutouts and an integrated kickstand, the Escudo case is a fantastic investment for the Pixel Fold.$26 at Amazon
Speck Presidio Perfect-Clear for Pixel FoldThe Presidio Perfect-Clear case from Speck has its surface covered in Microban, keeping odor and stain-causing bacteria at bay. This layer maintains top-notch clarity and won’t yellow over time. In addition to showing off the Pixel Fold, it offers 13 feet of drop protection in a thin package. And with raised bezels, the screen and camera are protected from being dragged across a flat space.$60 at Speck
The current selection is strong, despite the fact that we’re still missing a sizable portion of the anticipated Pixel Fold cases—we’re hoping they’re just fashionably late and not just absent. Newer companies like Ghostek and Casetify bring forth more flair and refinement, while more traditional names like OtterBox, Dbrand, and Spigen serve up the familiar and expected series. The Caseology Parallax combines all the best elements. We are familiar with and have confidence in this series since it provides a protective case that is neither too thick nor too thin, with equal parts grip and style.
It’s good that there aren’t many colorful Pixel Fold options you’d want to show off with a clear case. Slim scratch protection is provided by clear cases like the Ultra Hybrid and the Presidio Perfect-Clear. Additionally, more colorful cases, such as the graphic Casetify Impact Series, continue to create distinctive and captivating combinations for your Pixel Fold.
You will have to cope with actual cuts surrounding the button because the Pixel Fold’s fingerprint sensor is positioned on the power button. Hence, cases that eliminate the volume and power buttons, like the Spigen Ultra Hybrid, tend to yield better reads. Although cases like the Ultra Hybrid expose more of the frame and the buttons, they also provide a better grip place for opening the Fold with one hand. Some covers, like Tudia’s DualShield, simply expose the power button, making it simpler to feel where your finger has to go. But, some people may find it more difficult to acquire accurate fingerprint reads due to the smaller cutout.
If all else fails, use Smart Lock, also known as Extend Unlock, to keep your digital lifeline unlocked when you’re out and about or sporting your lovely Android smartwatch, as I do. Then purchase a screen protector for your Pixel Fold to shield that dazzling exterior screen from nicks and breaks.
Google won today’s game against the leakers. The Google Pixel Fold was presented for the first time by the business. This is actually the first time the business has ever used the term “Pixel Fold” in any official capacity.
The Google Pixel Fold debut event will take place at Google I/O 2023 on May 10, as anticipated. The Pixel Fold will officially launch next week, however the company did not specify a price or a start date for availability.
The Pixel Fold is depicted in the still image up top, and it fits all the stories we’ve heard thus far extremely well. The tweet from Google, however, demonstrates animations of the phone unfolding.
The Pixel Fold is depicted in the still image above, which accords quite well with all the speculations we have heard thus far. As you can see in the tweet below, Google also displayed animations of the phone unfolding. While May 4 is celebrated as an unofficial Star Wars holiday all around the world, the tweet’s clever message makes a play on the phrase “May The Force Be With You.”
Along with the tweet, the company also published a new Pixel Fold page at the Google Store. This page reveals the Google Pixel Fold launch details and gives folks interested in getting one the ability to sign up for alerts about its availability.
What else do we know about the Google Pixel Fold launch?
We can be sure that Google will introduce the Pixel Fold and Google Pixel 7a at Google I/O. There is a good probability that the Pixel Tablet will also make its formal debut, but Google hasn’t said anything about that just yet.
Several of the same features seen in the Pixel 7 Pro will probably also be found in the Pixel Fold. A triple-lens rear camera with wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses, the Tensor G2 SoC, a ton of Memory, a ton of storage, wireless charging, and more would be included. Of course, with all that power and the foldable design, the Pixel Fold will probably be incredibly pricey. As of now, reports point to a starting price of $1,799, the same as Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 4.
The foldable industry is now fairly saturated, with products ranging from Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold to Oppo’s Find N range. Additionally, it appears that a new smartphone will soon enter the foldable market. The questioned phone might be made by the Chinese company Tecno Mobile.
MySmartPrice has found web leaks of new foldable device images. The outlet claims that the phone in the images could be the Phantom V Fold. After the business unveiled its Phantom Vision V idea, a device with a rollable sliding screen, this was announced.
Something interesting about this book-like foldable is its ability to shut completely flat. This is a feat that Samsung’s own foldables can’t do as Samsung continues to innovate on its hinge technology.
The Phantom V Fold also appears to have a display cover with a punch-hole camera. On the device’s rear, there is a three-camera arrangement as well. We were unable to see the primary screen, therefore we are unsure about how severe the crease may be.
The handset is wrapped in a black casing that obscures much of the design, making it difficult to make out much else on it. However, it looks that the Phantom Vision V’s camera sensor arrangement is comparable.
According to leaker Paras Guglani, the Phantom V Fold could be coming sooner than later. Guglani claims Tecno is preparing to launch the device globally on February 28.
Yesterday, Samsung updated the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4 with its One UI 5 beta upgrade, which is based on Android 13. Owners of the Galaxy Z Fold 2 can now enroll in the beta program.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 was promised three significant OS updates and shipped with Android 10 out of the box. Owners of the Fold 2 can anticipate receiving Android 13 as the last significant OS upgrade. Even for Galaxy S22 devices, the stable version of One UI 5 is still not ready for release, but the beta version is currently accessible for download in South Korea. Other locations should soon receive the update.
All you have to do to try out the beta is go to the Samsung Members app. You’ll have the option to sign up for Samsung’s beta program there. Simply launch the app and select the banner for the beta announcement. You can register by entering your information on the registration page that is linked by the banner. After that is finished, you ought to see an update notification.
If you choose to install it, as with any beta, you can encounter issues. Always make a backup of your data before updating to the One UI 5 beta.
The Galaxy Z Fold 2 will receive Android 13 as its final major operating system, but it won’t be the last upgrade. the object
Although Android 13 will be the Galaxy Z Fold 2’s last major operating system, it won’t be the last upgrade. More security updates for the gadget are still planned, although they should stop in late 2024.
The era of folding devices has begun and who better to execute this latest trend than Samsung. Just last year Samsung impressed consumers worldwide with the release of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and announced an impressive follow-up device, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 in August of 2020.
The Galaxy Z Fold devices are ideal for those people who are looking for something innovative and have money to spare. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 is a step up from its predecessors and has all the positives of the original device but with certain tweaks to fix the bug issues. As of now, this is the finest foldable device in the market.
A Brief Description
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 is the next-generation foldable phone from the South Korean tech giant. Since then multiple foldable devices have been released by companies such as Microsoft, Motorola, Huawei, Royale, Xiaomi, and TCL. While all of them are commendable competition, they do not come close to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2. It is by far the best foldable phone in the market.
When the device is closed it has a 6.2-inch screen on one side and a robust camera bump on the other. However, when you unfold the device it opens up to reveal a 7.6-inch AMOLED display with an aspect ratio that’s similar to a square. A major upgrade that can be observed is that Samsung did not keep the slightly awkward notch found on the first Galaxy Fold for a smaller hole punch. The device’s refresh rate is up to 120Hz, it varies to give an optimized performance while conserving battery.
Additionally, Samsung is still aggressively marketing the multi-tasking feature. This particular feature allows users to use an app on the outside display and then continue that app experience on the interior display immediately. Users can even run multiple apps side by side. The phone itself is powered by Snapdragon 865 Plus processor. While the five camera lenses produce amazing photos.
The major downside is the price tag. It is quite a costly phone that it even surpasses some of the laptops available. A $2,000 device is not something everyone can afford but it is worth noting that you are getting a phone and a tablet rolled into one. The insurgence of foldable devices may make tablets obsolete.
How is it different from Samsung Galaxy Z Fold?
The original foldable phone was received quite well hence what does this new variant offer? One of the obvious upgrades is that the size of the outside display is much bigger; it takes over almost the entire closed front of the device. Another pleasant change is that there is a new rear camera module that looks similar to the module on the back of the Samsung Galaxy Note 20.
The cameras get revamped as well; consequently, the quality of images is improved. There are multiple finer tweaks made to the inner mechanisms. Furthermore, this variant is more durable as well thanks to its ultra-thin glass covers the interior, and Samsung’s “sweeper” technology prevents dust particles from settling in the hinge or making their way under the display. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 is a more polished version of the original fold.
Aforementioned, the cameras have been revamped to improve the quality of images. There are five total cameras on the Galaxy Z Fold 2: three on the back, one on the front, and one on the inside. The one on the inside is a hole-punch camera, so it doesn’t take up as much of the screen as it did on the previous model. The overall experience has improved mainly due to the larger front screen.
Users get the same control settings on both the external and internal cameras. While the pictures are quite remarkable. Although colors can be a bit over-saturated it is still a major step up. The photos are detailed and sharp. The only puzzling factor is that in this device Samsung opted for three 12MP shooters instead of its latest 108MP sensor, considering the price the tech mogul could have sprung for the latest sensors.
Battery
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 packs a 4,500mAh battery, which may seem inadequate considering the size of the device but it is sufficient for full-day use even for heavy users. According to testing reports users got six to seven hours of battery life on a single charge. Regardless, it has fast charging so you won’t have to wait long for the phone to be fully charged. A major positive is that the charger comes with the phone and you won’t have to buy it separately.
An additional power share feature is available with this device. If you own a pair of Galaxy Buds Live, you can share a bit of your battery with the Buds.
Durability and Everyday Usage
It has been reported in, “The Guardian”, that the screen has survived four months of use without a scratch, despite being made of softer, potentially scratch-prone material. The overall performance is remarkable but there are issues with the fingerprint sensor. It often has to be cleaned to unlock. Moreover, Apart from Samsung’s and a few third-party apps, not many have a full tablet-sized interface on the internal screen when held in portrait. However, many more websites and apps do resize properly to the big screen when the device is held in landscape.
Users can efficiently carry out everyday tasks such as texting and checking emails ordata sharing on the device plus the multi-tasking features works flawlessly. Although, users may have to get a stronger car mount since the phone weighs a lot due to which it will take some time to adjust to carrying the device.
Updates
It is a norm for security updates to arrive on Samsung phones before Google’s own devices. Samsung assures users that its devices will keep receiving updates for three years including the Galaxy Z Fold 2. This means the phone will get upgraded to Android 11, 12, and 13. As of now, the phone has gotten the Android 11 update.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 worth it?
If you can manage the price tag and are looking for something innovative then this device is the one for you. It is a mind-blowing phone with amazing features, making it the best foldable phone on the market right now. The most appealing feature about this device is its interior screen which Samsung has executed with perfection. The 120Hz display is vibrant and flawless plus it switched to a lower refresh rate to extend battery life.
The device’s cost is a major issue since most consumers are reluctant to spend this much for a phone despite its premium features and elegant design. There is also no headphone jack and it’s not water-resistant.
