Latest news with #Samsung
Digital Trends
26 minutes ago
- Digital Trends
World's first Qi2.2 wireless power bank unlocks 25W magnetic charging speeds
Why it matters: As smartphones like the iPhone 16 and Galaxy S25 push charging speeds higher, Qi2's evolution to 2.2 promises up to 50W wireless power—cutting charge times and heat— but adoption has been sluggish, leaving users stuck with slower 15W Qi2 tech. This new power bank could kickstart the upgrade wave for on-the-go charging. The news: UGREEN has come out with the world's first Qi 2.2-certified wireless power bank, the MagFlow Magnetic Power Bank. This 10,000mAh beast delivers 25W magnetic wireless charging, a built-in USB-C cable for wired options, an extra USB-C port for multi-device juicing, and a slick side display for battery status. It's backward-compatible with current Qi2 devices but shines with stronger magnets and efficiency tweaks for future-proofing. Recommended Videos What's next: Expect the MagFlow to ship between now and October, timed perhaps with iPhone 17 rumors hinting at faster charging. More Qi 2.2 gear from UGREEN and rivals like Satechi is incoming, while Samsung explores full Qi2 magnet support for its Galaxy Qi2 cases—potentially unlocking 2.2 perks without phone hardware changes. Go deeper: Qi2, inspired by over 300 firms since its CES 2023 debut, brings MagSafe-style snapping to Android too, but true support remains rare—only the HMD Skyline nails it fully, with Google and Samsung lagging on built-in magnets. As Qi2.2 rolls out, watch for Pixel 10 and OnePlus 13 to join the fast-charge club, though prices for the MagFlow are TBD—stay plugged in for reviews as it hits shelves.
CNET
an hour ago
- Business
- CNET
We Love the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 and It's Down to an All-Time Low of $776 at Amazon
Summer is in full swing and a major sales event just ended, but that doesn't mean the internet is completely devoid of deals. We've spotted the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 at at Amazon for just $776 for a 512GB configuration -- an all-time low for this phone if you choose it in graphite. This phone is currently out of stock at Samsung itself, as they're now promoting the Flip 6 and their latest, the Flip 7. Though the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is a previous release, it's still one of our picks for the best foldable phones you can buy today, and the current discount saves you a massive $324 on its list price. It's worth taking advantage of this offer if you need a new phone and want to avoid potential price increases due to tariffs. During our Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 review, CNET phone expert Lisa Eadicicco found that the "big cover screen is fun to use" and it has a "solid battery life." One of the few cons noted was how expensive the phone is, however, this discount makes it much more palatable. If you're okay with an open-box phone instead of one that's completely new, select Best Buy stores are also offering the Flip 5 for as low as $560 (256GB) or $594 for the 512GB configuration. Keep in mind that open-box phones from Best Buy might have minor signs of wear and tear, as these phones were on display. Some of these imperfections might include scratches, lack of nonessential parts and may not include original packaging. Best Buy restores all of its open-box phones to factory settings, and all software and functions work properly. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Keep in mind that although Best Buy has steeper discounts, Amazon's trade-in program knocks off up to $725, which could result in larger savings overall. Not keen on this deal? Here's our guide on the best phones to buy in 2025 ranging from Apple to Samsung, Google and more. Why this deal matters The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is still a fantastic phone if you're open to getting a previously released model. Though it's getting harder to find these, both Amazon and Best Buy are offering major discounts on the Galaxy Z Flip 5. On top of their discounts, both retailers offer trade-in benefits that could help you save even more on their current record-low offers.
CNET
an hour ago
- CNET
I Usually Find Android Phones Too Complicated, but the Pixel 9 Pro Is Different
CNET's key takeaways I've been using Google's Pixel 9 Pro for months. I like its solid overall performance and quirky new AI skills. The element that stands out most is how easy it is to use. Android phones often get a bad rap for being overly convoluted. And to be fair, that's often well justified. Samsung's Galaxy S25 range, for example, has deep menu systems for messing about with nearly every aspect of the phone, along with features like the Edge Panel sidebar and a variety of Samsung's own AI tools. You even get Samsung's version of some apps, so you end up with two apps for photos, two apps for web browsing and so on. For many Android users, the deep customizability of the OS has always been a selling point over the more simplistic iOS found on Apple's iPhones. But just because you want an Android phone, doesn't necessarily mean you're a fanatical tech nerd who wants to tinker with menus all day. The Pixel 9 Pro is the easiest Android phone I've ever used, and there's a number of key reasons why. My experience with the Pixel 9 Pro First, it's Google's own phone, meaning there's no secondary manufacturer software skin over the top of the operating system. It's pure, uncut Android. Google's interface is clean, easy to read and uncluttered. Naturally, it uses Google's own apps by default. Samsung, meanwhile, loads its phones up with its own browser, email client and photo gallery, all of which sit beside Google's Chrome, Gmail and Photos apps, meaning you already have duplicates of each tool. Samsung is not the only phone-maker to do this. Almost all Android phone companies load their phones up with at least their own browser and gallery app, while some companies, like Samsung and Honor, go as far as making their own email clients and calendars. I recently reviewed the Honor 400 Pro, and one of the big issues I found with that phone was how much unsolicited stuff comes pre-loaded as standard. Third-party apps from TikTok, LinkedIn, WPS office, Temu and a variety of others are all right there as soon as you turn it on for the first time, making the phone feel cluttered, bloated and complicated before you've even had a chance to install one app of your own. The Pixel has none of this. It's the same with AI tools. Samsung has its Bixby assistant, plus a huge variety of its own AI functions. The Honor 400 Pro packs a bunch of AI features for real-time translation and transcription, as do the OnePlus 13 and various other recent Android phones. But they all come with Google's Gemini Advanced, too, along with Circle to Search. The Pixel doesn't need to pointlessly double up. If you want to use AI with your phone, its tools are baked into the heart of the phone experience without you needing to also activate and sign into a third-party service. This simple approach extends to the camera, too. Open the default camera app and you're met with a neat interface, comprised mostly of the shutter button and zoom levels, with other shooting modes found alongside. It doesn't try to overcomplicate things here, instead letting you quickly shoot images without messing about with settings. It's an approach that works here, and as a result, the Pixel 9 Pro takes some of my favorite automatic images from a phone camera, doing a great job of balancing exposure and colors. I love the Xiaomi 15 Ultra's camera, but to get the best from it, you need to shoot in Pro mode, taking manual control of the settings, which makes it more suited to advanced photographers who want to fine-tune their images. The camera's simple software makes it easy to take photos with little effort on your part. Andrew Lanxon/CNET The Pixel does offer deeper control if you want it, conveniently hidden behind a small settings icon, rather than requiring you to switch completely into a "Pro" mode. For those of you wanting to take manual control of your white balance to warm up a beautiful sunset, the Pixel 9 Pro offers an easy way in. The specs 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display, 2,856x1,280 pixel resolution, 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate Google Tensor G4 processor 16GB RAM 4,700-mAh battery 50 megapixel main camera, 48 megapixel ultrawide, 48 megapixel telephoto zoom CNET's buying advice Google has clearly taken notes from Apple's approach in making the Pixel range. Apple's phones may be derided by Android fans for their lack of customization and "locked down" nature, but iPhones are famously more simple to operate. They have integrated hardware, software and services that make them easy to understand whether you're new to smartphones or a veteran gadget obsessive. Apple's "you do things our way" approach is a big part of the phone's success, and the Pixel 9 Pro feels like the closest approximation of the Apple experience you can find on Android. If you're looking for a clean experience with a smartphone that doesn't try and get in your way with needless extras, the Pixel 9 Pro is certainly worth a look.
Mint
2 hours ago
- Business
- Mint
Flipkart's GOAT Sale Is Live: Flagship Models Now Available at Affordable Prices
As smartphone saturation rises, tablets are becoming increasingly popular for various uses, including learning, entertainment, and even work. Recognising this trend, Flipkart is holding a tablet sale from July 11th to 17th, featuring discounts on brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus, POCO, realme, Motorola, and Lenovo. This sale includes options suitable for different needs, from premium tablets with stylus support to 4G-enabled devices for educational or travel purposes. Here's a look at some of the tablet deals available on Flipkart: It features an 11-inch display, Snapdragon 695 processor, and Wi-Fi & 5G options. The MRP is ₹ 32,999, and the sale price is ₹ 15,199. This Samsung tablet has received a significant price reduction. With 5G connectivity, Snapdragon 695 performance, and an 11-inch display, this device can be suitable for streaming, productivity, and gaming. It can be a versatile choice for students, professionals, and families. There is an offer of flat ₹ 5,000 off with select accessories. The MRP is ₹ 44,999, and the sale price is ₹ 32,999. The recently launched OnePlus Pad 2 offers a refined design, a high refresh rate display, and premium performance. Buyers will also receive a complimentary stylus, which may be beneficial for those looking for a productivity tablet with extended battery life and a premium design. It features a 12.4-inch XL screen, 10090 mAh battery, and includes an S Pen in-box. The MRP is ₹ 65,999, and the sale price is ₹ 27,199. This Samsung "fan edition" tablet is offered at a significant discount, positioning it as a notable Android tablet option in the sub- ₹ 30K category. With the S-Pen included, long battery life, and a large display, it is suitable for creatives, students, and multitaskers. It features an 11-inch display, 8GB RAM + 128GB storage, and Snapdragon 680 processor. The MRP is ₹ 19,999, and the sale price is ₹ 10,499. The Redmi Pad SE is considered a good value tablet under ₹ 12,000, offering a clean MIUI Pad experience and strong audio-visual performance. Its 8GB RAM variant at this price point makes it a competitive budget-friendly tablet. It features an 11.5-inch display, MediaTek Helio G99, up to 8GB RAM + 128GB ROM, and 4G connectivity. The MRP is ₹ 28,999, and the sale price is ₹ 12,499. This tablet provides a large display, 4G connectivity, and ample RAM, which can be useful for users prioritizing performance and portability. Its high refresh rate panel and realme UI make it suitable for content consumption and light productivity. It features an 11.5-inch display, 8600 mAh battery, and MediaTek Helio G99. The MRP is ₹ 32,000, and the sale price is ₹ 12,749. The Lenovo Tab Plus is designed for entertainment, featuring a high-resolution display and JBL-tuned speakers. It is available at a reduced price, making it a potentially attractive option for streaming, gaming, or casual Browse. It features an 11.35-inch display and MediaTek Helio G99. The MRP is ₹ 19,999, and the sale price is ₹ 13,999. The OnePlus Pad Go, with its premium metal build, OxygenOS optimisations, and 4G support, remains a suitable choice for everyday users. At this price point, it offers value, particularly for students and first-time tablet buyers. It features a 12.1-inch display, Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, and Wi-Fi + 5G. The MRP is ₹ 30,999, and the sale price is ₹ 18,499. With one of the largest screens in the segment and support for high-speed 5G, the POCO Pad can be used for both work and entertainment on the go. Its powerful chipset and expansive display may make it a suitable alternative to laptops for casual use. It features a 12.7-inch display and MediaTek Dimensity 8300. The MRP is ₹ 43,999, and the sale price is ₹ 23,999. Motorola's Android tablet offers a large display, a near-stock Android interface, and performance powered by the Dimensity 8300 chipset. It may be a strong option for professionals and content creators seeking a large-screen Android experience under ₹ 25,000.
Android Authority
2 hours ago
- Android Authority
Galaxy Watch users might want to stay away from testing QPR1 betas
Ryan Haines / Android Authority TL;DR Galaxy Watch owners are reporting problems when using Samsung's wearables with Android 16 QPR1 beta releases. Issues include failure to pair, connections dropping, and Samsung apps repeatedly crashing. For the moment, the only permanent solution seems to be going back to Android 16 stable. Getting early access to in-development software can be a lot of fun. Plenty of us participate in testing programs for some of our favorite apps, both in the interest of helping to make them better and getting to enjoy a sneak preview of new features before everybody else. That extends to software platforms, as well, with Google offering its Android Beta for Pixel program — and as of just a week ago, a new Canary program for even earlier access. But this kind of testing doesn't happen without some level of risk, and that's something that wearable fans might want to keep in mind. Any time you're testing a new version of Android, there's the potential that things are going to break. Sometimes, those failures can reasonably be expected, like issues with Wallet tap-to-pay not operating properly on beta builds. And while we tend to go into trying out software like this reasonably well informed of the potential pitfalls, apparently there's always still going to be room to surprise us. The latest problem we're hearing about concerns Samsung's Galaxy Watch wearables and users running Android 16 QPR betas. Over on Reddit, a thread started earlier this month by user Ecstatic_Estate_6625 has only been growing and growing, with users reporting pairing failures across a number of different Galaxy Watch models (via 9to5Google). Some users seem to get pairing to work, but then run into trouble with their connection dropping, or Samsung software crashing. 9to5Google reports that in its testing the connected phone got into a loop of trying to download Samsung's Watch Manager plugin, failing, and — you guessed it — crashing. While we wish we had a fix to share that could keep you testing QPR1, for the moment the only real solution seems to be going back to stable Android 16. If you're thinking about picking up a new Galaxy Watch 8, maybe put off the Android beta testing until you're able to find a second phone to use for that. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
