Google launched its Pixel 9 series, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, in August of last year. It’s believed the Google Pixel 9a will be an entry-level version of the phone, but it’s coming over the line sooner than expected. We already know the design, camera, and battery details of the device so far thanks to multiple leaks.
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Google Pixel 9a to Launch in March 2025 with ₹42,000 Price Tag, New Leaks Reveal Key Specifications
A fresh report (Via 9to5Google) has told us all about the expected launch date of the Pixel 9a. Historically, Google has been launching these at its annual Google I/O in the month of May. This time, though, the Google Pixel 9a is said to be arriving earlier, with pre-orders starting around mid-March. According to unnamed sources cited by Android Headlines, Google will begin pre-orders for the Pixel 9a on March 19. The phone will ship on March 26 and will be available in stores that day, too.
The early launch indicates that Google may break its tradition of unveiling Pixel A series gadgets in May. The last two models, the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a were announced at the Google I/O events in May. We can also expect the Google Pixel 9a to be priced at $499 (around ₹42,000) for the 128GB storage option in the US. It is expected with a 6.285-inch Actua display with a peak brightness of 2,700 nits and an HDR brightness of 1,800 nits, protected by Gorilla Glass 3.
The phone may be powered by a Google Tensor G4 processor, paired with a Titan M2 security chip and 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM. It could be available in 128GB or 256GB UFS 3.1 storage configurations. On the rear, the Pixel 9a is rumored to have a dual-camera setup, including a 48-megapixel primary sensor and a 13-megapixel ultra-wide Sony IMX712 sensor. It may also feature a 5,100mAh battery with 23W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging support, as well as IP68 water and dust resistance.
FAQs
When will the Pixel 9a be available for pre-order?
Pre-orders for the Pixel 9a will begin on March 19, 2025.
What is the expected price of the Pixel 9a?
The Pixel 9a is expected to be priced around ₹42,000 for the 128GB model.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Design Flaw: The Google Pixel 9 series launched globally back in August last year with standard, Pro, and XL models. The phones also had a new design with a flat frame and a horizontal rear camera bar that doesn’t protrude like past models. But the Pixel 9 Pro has had a rumored design fault. This is not the first time the issue has been raised as another user had complained about the camera lens of their device getting fogged up, and the back panel separating from the device.
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Google Pixel 9 Pro Suffers Camera Bar Separation Issue, Raising Design Concerns
As per a report by Android Police, someone on Reddit (via) posted about a problem similar to one experienced by a former Pixel 9 Pro owner. The user posted pictures of the camera bar coming loose from the rear of the phone, leaving a gap that could potentially allow dust and moisture to enter the device, and compromising the phone’s IP68 rating. This post was later removed. The affected Pixels 9 Pro was claimed by the Redditor to be three months old and used with care, having a case and screen protector.
The device had not been dropped or broken. In the first case, the problem arose when the phone was put on a bathroom sink while its owner showered, and there was speculation that moisture could be involved. There is no reference to similar incidents in the latest event. Pixel devices are covered by a one-year warranty, but when the user contacted Google support, they were advised that the phone was now too old at over 90 days to be eligible for a return or replacement.
Fortunately, the first user was within the 15-day return time frame and was able to receive a replacement. However, it’s likely a design/quality control problem with the 9 Pro, but it doesn’t appear to be too widespread. Pixel 9 Pro users may also need to be careful that the protective case fits well to avoid applying pressure on the camera bar. It’s recommended to use official Google cases or those from trusted third-party brands like Spigen.
FAQs
What is the issue with the Pixel 9 Pro camera bar?
The camera bar on the Pixel 9 Pro has been reported to detach from the back panel, creating a gap.
Is this a widespread problem with the Pixel 9 Pro?
It’s unclear, but it seems to be a design flaw or quality control issue affecting some units.
BSNL to Discontinue Three Affordable Recharge Plans
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), the government-owned telecom giant, has surprised its users with an unexpected announcement. The company plans to discontinue three of its most affordable recharge plans starting February 10, 2025. This decision has left many users concerned, especially those who rely on these budget-friendly options for long-term validity and essential benefits. Here’s everything you need to know about the plans being phased out, their features, and what this change means for BSNL users.
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BSNL’s Affordable Plans to Be Discontinued
BSNL has officially announced the discontinuation of three popular recharge plans: Plan Vouchers 201, 797, and 2999. These plans, known for their affordability and long-term benefits, have been a go-to choice for many users. The news came to light when BSNL users started receiving SMS notifications about the termination of these plans. The message encouraged users to explore other recharge options via the BSNL Selfcare app, which also offers a 2% discount on recharges.
The discontinuation of these plans is part of BSNL’s strategy to streamline its offerings and possibly introduce new plans in the future. However, for now, users are left wondering how this change will impact their connectivity and budget.
Why Is BSNL Discontinuing These Plans?
BSNL’s decision to phase out these plans comes at a time when the company is making significant efforts to improve its services. Recently, BSNL activated over 65,000 4G mobile towers to enhance connectivity and compete with private telecom providers. While this move has attracted new users, a recent TRAI report highlighted a decline in BSNL’s user base.
The discontinuation of these plans could be a response to changing market dynamics and the need to optimize revenue. By phasing out older plans, BSNL may be preparing to introduce new recharge options that align with its upgraded 4G services and cater to a broader audience.
Features of the Discontinued Plans
Here’s a breakdown of the three plans that will no longer be available after February 10, 2025:
Plan Voucher 201:
Validity: 90 days
Benefits: No calling or data benefits included
Ideal for: Users looking for basic validity without additional features
Plan Voucher 797:
Validity: 300 days
Benefits: Unlimited calling, 2GB of high-speed data daily for the first 60 days, and 100 free SMS per day
Ideal for: Users seeking a balance of long-term validity and moderate data usage
Plan Voucher 2999:
Validity: 365 days
Benefits: Unlimited calling, 3GB of high-speed data daily, 100 free SMS per day, free national roaming, and other value-added services
Ideal for: Heavy users who need extensive data and calling benefits over a year
These plans have been particularly popular among users who prefer long-term recharges to avoid frequent top-ups.
User Reactions to the Announcement
The news of these plans being discontinued has sparked mixed reactions among BSNL users. Many took to social media to express their disappointment, especially those who relied on the Rs 797 and Rs 2999 plans for their comprehensive benefits.
One user shared a screenshot of the SMS notification, stating, “Dear Consumer, Plan Vouchers 201, 797, and 2999 will be discontinued effective 10.02.2025. For details on other vouchers, please download the Selfcare app and enjoy a 2% discount on your recharge.”
While some users are upset about losing their favorite plans, others are hopeful that BSNL will introduce new and improved recharge options to fill the gap.
What’s Next for BSNL Users?
For users affected by this change, BSNL recommends exploring alternative recharge plans through its Selfcare app. The app not only provides detailed information about available plans but also offers a 2% discount on recharges.
BSNL is likely to introduce new plans in the coming months, especially as it continues to expand its 4G network. Users can expect plans that cater to modern connectivity needs, such as higher data limits, better calling benefits, and competitive pricing.
BSNL’s Efforts to Stay Competitive
BSNL has been working hard to stay relevant in the highly competitive telecom market. The activation of 65,000 4G towers is a significant step toward improving network quality and attracting more users. Additionally, the company has been focusing on offering value-added services and affordable plans to retain its customer base.
While the discontinuation of these three plans may seem like a setback, it could pave the way for more innovative and user-friendly options in the future.
BSNL’s decision to discontinue its affordable recharge plans may come as a surprise to many, but it reflects the company’s efforts to adapt to changing market demands. While users will miss the convenience and benefits of these plans, the promise of new and improved options offers hope for a better connectivity experience in the future.
BSNL is phasing out these plans as part of its strategy to streamline offerings and optimize revenue. The company may also be preparing to introduce new recharge options that align with its upgraded 4G services.
2. What alternatives are available for users of the discontinued plans?
Users can explore other recharge options through the BSNL Selfcare app, which provides detailed information about available plans and offers a 2% discount on recharges. BSNL is also expected to launch new plans soon.
While the Samsung Galaxy S25 series keeps the exact same battery capacity and wired or wireless charging speeds as its predecessors, it brings support for the latest Qi 2.1 wireless charging standard. This updated version of the Qi standard was unveiled at CES 2025 and is Qi2-ready, which brings several new features. The standard notably permits compatibility for magnetic accessories like cases and charging docks, though it lacks the built-in magnets used by Apple’s MagSafe, which comports wireless chargers on supported iPhones.
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Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Supports Qi 2.1 Standard for Magnetic Charging and Improved Efficiency
For Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra, the Qi 2.1 standard brings a magnetic charging feature that through accessories–the devices themselves do not have internal magnets to help align with wireless chargers. This feature was enabled by having these magnetic accessory covers, which are offered by Samsung and third-party brands like Spigen. Qi 2.1 will also introduce what’s called an Automatic Alignment Profile (AAP), which makes sure the charger’s transmitter and the phone’s receiver are optimally aligned for the best energy transfer.
It also fixes problems caused by the bumps of smartphone cameras, which are used to create issues when charging wirelessly. Another major update with Qi 2.1 is a more secure connection to compatible vehicles; although, no such vehicles are on the market just yet. Once released, users will be able to magnetically charge their S25 series phone while in their vehicle, further expanding the capabilities of wireless charging.
In comparison, OnePlus offers a magnetic charging solution for the OnePlus 13, but the phone itself is not Qi-compatible, so the case-based charging solution makes more sense. OnePlus also supports faster 50W wireless charging, which adds to the appeal. Looking ahead, the next iteration of Qi, Qi 2.2, could bring faster wireless charging speeds, especially with contributions from Google, whose technology could influence the future direction of wireless charging. For reference, Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL offers up to 23W fast wireless charging through its Pixel Stand.
FAQs
Does the Samsung Galaxy S25 have built-in magnets for wireless charging?
No, the Galaxy S25 series relies on magnetic accessory covers for wireless charging alignment.
What is Qi 2.1 wireless charging?
Qi 2.1 supports improved magnetic charging with accessories and offers optimized energy transfer.
According to Ross Young, a well-known display analyst, the iPhone SE 4 will have no Dynamic Island, and in fact, it will not even feature a notch. This contradicts an earlier leak from earlier in the month when images of the iPhone SE 4 with a Dynamic Island were shared.
When it published those images of the devices, they were exactly the same design features as those found on higher-end iPhone models. But Young’s newly published remarks suggest that the alleged “iPhone SE 4” will retain the notch — as on the iPhone 14 and contrary to previous rumors.
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iPhone SE 4 to Feature Notch Instead of Dynamic Island, Analyst Ross Young Confirms
There had been clues in earlier leaks of Dynamic Island, including a grainy one that surfaced in February 2024, but it seems the consensus from multiple sources has actually been pointing toward a notch. Young’s assertion is also reasonable, given that the iPhone SE 4 is apparently based on the iPhone 14 and would therefore feature the notch and not go with a Dynamic Island.
The screen protectors for the iPhone SE 4 also appear to support the notch design, lending additional weight to Young’s claim. The iPhone SE 4 is expected to mark the end of Touch ID on Apple’s lineup, as all future iPhones will transition to Face ID. As for specs, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to have a 6.1-inch display, a single-lens rear camera, 8GB of RAM, and the new A17 Pro chip, enabling the new Apple Intelligence features.
Additionally, the iPhone SE 4 will be powered by a similar design as the iPhone 14, making it more affordable but still competitive in terms of performance. The iPhone SE 4 is expected to launch in the spring, most likely in April 2025, marking another milestone in Apple’s ongoing refinement of the iPhone lineup.
FAQs
Will the iPhone SE 4 have a Dynamic Island?
No, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to feature a notch, not the Dynamic Island.
When will the iPhone SE 4 be launched?
The iPhone SE 4 is expected to launch in April 2025.
Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S25 series in India and globally at its Unpacked event last week. The series includes the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra, each of which adds substantial upgrades over last year’s versions. Soon after, Samsung officially lowered the prices of the Galaxy S24 in India.
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Samsung Galaxy S24 Receives Significant Price Reduction Following Galaxy S25 Launch: Is It Worth Considering?
Samsung Galaxy S24 was launched in India at ₹74,999 for the 8GB + 128GB base model, while the 8GB + 256GB variant price is ₹79,999 and the top-level 8GB + 512GB price is ₹89,999. After the price cut, the starting variant is offered at ₹64,999, with a ₹10,000 discount. Similarly, the 8GB + 256GB variant now costs ₹70,999, while the 8GB + 512GB model is priced at ₹82,999. These updated prices are already live on Samsung’s official website.
Alongside the discounted prices, Samsung has introduced a ₹10,000 instant discount for HDFC credit card users through EMI payments, which means, the effective price of the base variant now goes down to ₹54,999. Samsung Galaxy S24 is also being listed for slightly lower prices on e-commerce websites such as Amazon and Flipkart, with the 8GB + 256GB model priced at ₹55,500 on Amazon and ₹58,999 on Flipkart.
It has a 6.2-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen with 120Hz refresh rate, peak brightness of 2600 nits, and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. It features a 50MP primary shooter with OIS, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS, and a 12MP selfie camera on the front. The device is fueled by a 4,000mAh battery that supports 25W fast charging. Under the hood, the Galaxy S24 is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset paired with the Adreno GPU, up to 8GB RAM, and 512GB of internal storage.
Should You Consider Purchasing the Galaxy S24?
These new price cuts mean the Samsung Galaxy S24 is now a very attractive proposition for anyone in the market for a high-end smartphone but who does not necessarily need to splash out on the latest and greatest. Providing an excellent blend of performance, display, and camera for the average user. But if your goal is to keep your tech as current as possible, then the S25’s updated chip, better camera tech, and advanced AI capabilities may be well worth the extra bill. Your specific needs and preferences should be evaluated in making a decision.
A couple of weeks ago, Indonesia’s SDPPI certification platform approved the Poco F7 Pro and Poco F7 Ultra, and in doing so listed their respective model numbers of 24117RK2CG and 24122RKC7G. Now, even more indicating its soon launch, the Poco F7 Pro has appeared to Thailand’s NBTC certification platform. Now, the device receiving the certification bears the model number 24117RK2CG and most likely is the F7 Pro, meaning it should be launched in the near future.
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Poco F7 Pro Appears on NBTC Certification, Imminent Launch Expected with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
As a point of reference, the Poco F6 Pro popped up in the NBTC database in March 2024 and landed in May. So the Poco F7 Pro isn’t likely until the end of Q1 or the start of Q2 2025. Along with its appearance in the Indonesian and Thai certification databases, the F7 Pro has also been approved by IMDA in Singapore and TDRA in the UAE. Currently, there are no Indian variants for the F7 Pro or F7 Ultra, suggesting that only the standard Poco F7 might come to India.
It is speculated that the Pro and Ultra versions could introduce first, while the base model, powered by the forthcoming Snapdragon 8s Elite chipset, will follow. Reports also claimed that the Poco F7 Pro and F7 Ultra could be just rebranded versions of the Redmi K80 and K80 Pro that were introduced in China in November 2024. As such, it is expected that the F7 Pro will be powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, whereas the Ultra variant might house Snapdragon 8 Elite.
As for the Poco F7, it could be a rebranded version of the Redmi Turbo 4 Pro, which is expected to debut in China with the Snapdragon 8s Elite chipset in April 2025. The Turbo 4 Pro is also rumored to feature a 1.5K OLED display, a 7,500mAh battery, and 90W fast charging support, making it an enticing option for those seeking powerful specs.
FAQs
When will the Poco F7 Pro launch?
It’s expected to debut by late March or April 2025.
What chipset will the Poco F7 Pro have?
The F7 Pro will likely feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.
In India, Infinix announced its new budget smartphone, the Infinix Smart 9 HD. The handset, which is part of the brand’s Smart series, is claimed to be the most rugged phone in the segment and has been put through around 2,50,000 drop tests. It also survived a six-side drop test, a height of 1.5 meters, and extreme temperature testing. It has a multi-layer glass back, flat edges, and a frame that matches the color of the glass. Its punch-hole cutout, simultaneously, is an interactive Dynamic Bar.
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Infinix Smart 9 HD Launched in India at ₹6,699: Durable Design, 90Hz Display, and Android 14 Go
The Infinix Smart 9 HD has been launched in a single 3GB + 64GB configuration, whose price is set at ₹6,699. It will be available for purchase via Flipkart starting February 4th, with a special day-one offer reducing the price to ₹6,199, inclusive of all discounts. Buyers can choose from four color options: Mint Green, Coral Gold, Neo Titanium, and Metallic Black.
The phone features a 6.7-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, 500 nits of brightness, and a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels. It is powered by the MediaTek Helio G50 chipset paired with an IMG PowerVR GE8320 GPU. It has 3GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 64GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 1TB through a microSD card. It also has Virtual RAM support to boost performance by an additional 3GB. The Smart 9 HD has Android 14 Go Edition to keep the software experience slick and streamlined.
In terms of imaging, the device packs a 13MP primary sensor with quad-LED flash in a similar fashion with an 8MP snapper at the front for selfies and video calling. It packs a 5,000mAh battery with AI Charge Protection and comes with USB-C to charge it up. The phone also packs dual speakers with DTS audio and sound boost tech, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and an IP54 rating for splash protection. With its durable design, rich specifications, and budget price point, the Infinix Smart 9 HD makes a good addition to the list of budget smartphones available.
FAQs
What is the price of the Infinix Smart 9 HD in India?
The phone is priced at ₹6,699, with a day-one offer of ₹6,199.
Does the Infinix Smart 9 HD support expandable storage?
Lava has unveiled a budget 5G offering in India, called the Lava Yuva Smart. It is a budget segment device and is a familiar design, with a waterdrop notch on the front and a square camera module on the back. For security purposes, the phone packs a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. It’s also backed by a Unisoc 9863A octa-core chip along with a 13MP primary sensor, Android 14 Go Edition, a 5,000mAh battery, and an HD+ display.
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Lava Yuva Smart Launched in India: Affordable 5G Smartphone with Impressive Features
As for pricing, the Lava Yuva Smart is available for ₹6,000 under an introductory offer. It comes in three colorways: Glossy Blue, Glossy White, and Glossy Lavender. The device is also backed by a one-year warranty, with the added benefit of free home service. While exact availability details are yet to be confirmed, it is currently listed on Amazon for ₹6,299.
The Lava Yuva Smart features a 6.75-inch HD+ display with a resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels, providing decent clarity for everyday use. The 60Hz refresh rate and 260 PPI ensure smooth scrolling and decent image quality. This is powered by the Unisoc 9863A octa-core processor, paired with 3GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, further extendable using a microSD card. There’s 3GB of extended virtual RAM on the Yuva Smart as well for better performance.
On the optics front, the Lava Yuva Smart offers a dual rear camera setup with a 13MP primary sensor, and an AI secondary sensor, as well as a front camera with a resolution of 5MP for selfies and video calls. It is backed by a 5,000mAh battery that supports 10W charging, which is good enough to last a full day. It runs on Android 14 Go Edition and offers features like face unlock, a 3.5mm audio jack, and connectivity options including 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, and GPS.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: The Ultimate Speed Battle That’s Breaking Records
Hey tech enthusiasts! The smartphone battle just got more interesting, and I’ve got some juicy details to share. Samsung‘s newest powerhouse, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, has just flexed its muscles against Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max, and the results? Well, they’re pretty mind-blowing! Let’s dive into what this means for you and the future of smartphone gaming.
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Galaxy S25 Ultra’s 36% performance lead over the iPhone 16 Pro Max
Remember how we used to think iPhones were unbeatable in performance? Those days might be over. The Galaxy S25 Ultra just showed up to the party with a stunning 36% performance lead over the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 3DMark’s Steel Nomad Light benchmark. As someone who’s been testing phones for years, I can tell you – this is huge!
Breaking Down the Numbers
Let me break this down in a way that actually makes sense:
Galaxy S25 Ultra scored: 2,617 points
iPhone 16 Pro Max scored: 1,922 points
Frame rates? Samsung hit 19.39 FPS while iPhone managed 14.2 FPS
What’s really cool here is that we’re talking about real-world gaming performance. This isn’t just some random number – it’s about how smooth your favorite games will run.
What Makes the S25 Ultra So Powerful?
The star of the show is the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip inside the S25 Ultra. Think of it as the engine of a sports car – and in this case, Samsung’s got the more powerful engine. What’s particularly interesting is that this isn’t just a one-hit wonder. The S25 Ultra has already beaten the iPhone 16 Pro Max in another important test – Geekbench 6’s multi-core performance, with about a 20% lead.
But Wait, There’s More to the Story
Now, let’s be fair here – Apple’s A18 Pro chip still wins in single-core performance. It’s like having a sprinter who’s fantastic at short distances but might not win the marathon. The S25 Ultra, however, is showing it’s got both speed and endurance.
Cooling Factor in Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
One detail that really caught my attention is the S25 Ultra’s vapor chamber cooling system. As someone who’s dealt with phones heating up during intense gaming sessions, this is a big deal. Samsung’s clearly thought about how to keep all this power running smoothly without turning your phone into a hand warmer.
What This Means for You
Here’s why this matters for everyday users:
Better gaming performance
Smoother multitasking
More future-proof device
Potentially better battery efficiency
Deal You Shouldn’t Miss
Here’s a hot tip: Amazon‘s currently running an amazing promotion – you can get a $200 gift card when you pre-order the S25 Ultra. As someone who loves a good deal, I’d say that’s pretty tempting!
Looking Ahead
This benchmark victory isn’t just about numbers – it’s about Samsung pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a smartphone. While Apple still excels in certain areas, it’s exciting to see real competition in the high-end smartphone market.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s performance in these benchmarks is more than just impressive – it’s a sign of changing times in the smartphone world. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just someone who wants their phone to stay snappy for years to come, these results are worth paying attention to.
Remember, while benchmarks are important, they’re just one part of the story. What matters most is how the phone performs in your daily life. But with these kinds of numbers, it’s hard not to get excited about what the S25 Ultra brings to the table.
Have you been thinking about upgrading your phone? These results might just make that decision a bit easier. Let me know in the comments what you think about this Samsung vs. Apple showdown!
FAQs
How much faster is the Galaxy S25 Ultra than iPhone 16 Pro Max?
36% faster in 3DMark Steel Nomad Light benchmark.
Has S25 Ultra beaten iPhone in other tests?
Yes, it’s 20% faster in Geekbench 6 multi-core tests.
How much better is gaming performance on S25 Ultra?”
S25 Ultra runs at 19.39 FPS vs iPhone’s 14.2 FPS – about 5 FPS better.
Is there a special deal for buying S25 Ultra?”
Yes, get a $200 Amazon gift card with pre-orders.
What’s new in S25 Ultra’s cooling system?
Larger vapor chamber for better sustained performance.
