As foldable phones start to become a little bit more common, it will also become harder for brands to stand out from the growing crowd. There’s definitely still a lot of room for improvement, of course, but many of the features have started to become more standard these days, especially those surrounding the all-important foldable screen. The challenge is even higher when trying to put out a successor to a successful first attempt, with the stakes now higher and the competition even tighter. That’s the difficult task that Vivo had to face in coming up with a successor to its notable first foldable phone, and so we take the Vivo X Fold 2 for a good run to see if it manages to overcome the odds or if it is a victim of the brand’s own success.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

At first glance, the Vivo X Fold 2 immediately sets itself apart with its distinctive and elegant looks. Circular camera bumps seem to be the new trend, but not all styles are as pleasant to look at. Normally, one that isn’t centered would look a bit awkward and unbalanced, but Vivo manages to pull this one off thanks to a neat visual trick.

The non-screen backside of the phone is made from two materials. There’s a vertical strip on the side of the hinge that’s made of glossy glass, serving as an accent to the rest of the surface, which uses that oh-so-familiar faux leather material. Beyond giving the phone a unique visual, it also gives the illusion that the camera enclosure is sitting in the middle rather than off-center. That said, that camera design is a bit of a mixed bag. Its stepped design and textured ring make it stand out a bit less despite its height, but that small LED flash ring sticks out like a sore thumb and breaks the visual flow of the design, not to mention the necessary ZEISS branding that sits like a blue wart below the camera.

The Vivo X Fold 2 is definitely quite a looker, especially in the eye-catching red unit we were given for this review. Compared to its predecessor, it’s supposed to be thinner and lighter, though you won’t be able to easily tell even if you have both devices at hand. It’s definitely on the thin and light side compared to other foldables, but it’s certainly not the top of the pack in that aspect. What it is, however, is large, and it is possibly one of the largest in the foldable market, especially when it comes to screen size.

Like many other foldable phones outside of Samsung, Vivo uses a well-known water drop hinge to help make the crease less visible while also allowing the phone to fold shut completely. In both cases, the Vivo X Fold 2 doesn’t disappoint, but it’s not exactly a groundbreaking feat either. It would be more shocking if it actually did worse since it’s a more or less established technology at this point. Fortunately, you really don’t notice the crease that much unless you intentionally look for it, and the bright and large 8.03-inch inner display will be enough to distract you with the way it shows your content in vibrant and crisp colors, even outdoors under the sun.

Ergonomics

Now that the once ridiculed “phablet” has become the standard smartphone size, even for Apple, it is nearly impossible to use smartphones these days with a single hand. That is especially true for foldable phones, which transform into small tablets that you really need two hands for. When folded closed, however, the phone’s doubled thickness makes it even less comfortable to use with a single hand, no matter how large your hands might be.

This is probably truer for the Vivo X Fold 2 simply because it is larger than any other foldable phone. When folded, the 6.53-inch external display makes the surface area even less unwieldy. Fortunately, the phone’s textured back gives it a better grip than others of its kind. If you’re the type to still worry, though, Vivo includes a protective back case in the same color and, amusingly, the same vegan leather material as the phone itself.

The one thing that’s a bit easy to do with one hand is to unlock the phone. Thanks to housing an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor in the middle of the screen, you don’t have to fiddle with power buttons located on just one side of the phone. This is already a rare sight on foldable phones, but even more impressive is the fact that the Vivo X Fold 2 also has a similar in-display sensor on the inner display.

Performance

The Vivo X Fold 2 is equipped with top-of-the-line hardware you’d expect from a premium flagship this time of the year. That means a beefy Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB or 512GB of storage. What all these figures mean in practice is that it won’t be lacking in power, handling anything you throw at it with aplomb. There is, however, one caveat where the phone gets quite warm when playing graphics-intensive titles. It’s not hot enough to burn your skin, but it might make you want to pause the game a bit, especially since it would eventually affect frame rates.

The phone is equipped with a dual battery that totals 4,800mAh, quite a generous capacity as far as foldables go. Given the power and the two displays, however, you are going to see a shorter uptime compared to normal slabs with the same battery size. Vivo makes up for it with a 120W ultra-fast charging capability that’s one of the fastest in the industry, foldable or otherwise. Unfortunately, that may have come at the price of Vivo downgrading the USB-C port from version 3.2 of its predecessor to an older 2.0 technology. Not only does this mean it has a slower data transfer rate, it also loses the ability to output video through that part. The latter is probably less important to most people compared to faster charging times, but it’s still an unfortunate downgrade nonetheless.

The crowning glory of the Vivo X Fold 2 is, of course, its foldable screen, which is currently the biggest in its category. It has quite an impressive performance, especially when it comes to brightness, but its size does come with a price. It has an overall lower pixel density, and while you won’t be able to make out individual pixels, more discerning eyes might notice the step down in quality compared to other foldables. Fortunately, that doesn’t take away from the enjoyable viewing experience, whether you’re watching videos or reading documents.

Foldable phones haven’t exactly been at the height of mobile photography, mostly because of the sacrifices that have to be made in terms of design and price. Vivo, however, is quite known for its smartphone cameras, especially with its flagship X family, so you’d expect that the X Fold 2 would rise above the rest in this regard as well. Just like the rest of the phone so far, however, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. It definitely takes impressive photos and videos, but they won’t sweep you off your feet, especially when it comes to close-up shots.

The main 50MP camera might not sound like the greatest, but it gets the job done without breaking a sweat. Images have plenty of details, and colors are bright, perhaps even too vibrant for some tastes. Vivo has again partnered with ZEISS for the optics as well as some special camera modes, and those turn out to be more color accurate. The main camera delivers plenty of detail, even in low light, to the point that the dedicated Night Mode might look redundant as long as there is enough illumination from the surroundings.

Left: Regular Shot; Right: ZEISS

Regular (1x)

Night Mode

ZEISS

Unfortunately, the other cameras are less impressive. The 12MP ultra-wide is so-so, and it’s no better nor worse compared to other 12MP ultra-wide cameras you’d find on most smartphones these days. Things take a rather sad turn with the telephoto camera, though. Where there were once two, there is now only one, and Vivo removed the one that was actually more interesting. There is no longer a periscope telephoto camera, leaving only a 12MP shooter in its stead that is capable of doing a measly 2x optical zoom. Many “main” cameras are capable of that much, which makes this camera feel redundant. As for output, it’s decent enough to be usable, but it’s a few steps short of what fans have come to expect from Vivo.

Ultra-Wide

1x

2x (Telephoto)

As for software, the Vivo X Fold 2 comes with Origin OS based on Android 13, which is the China-exclusive flavor that Vivo ships on its phones. This means that there is no Google Play Store pre-installed, though you can definitely install it through other means and get access to your favorite apps. Alas, Origin OS is also filled to the brim with other pre-installed apps, but that, too, is the norm for phones coming from that market. The even bigger concern, however, is how the custom Android experience feels a little rough around the edges as far as support for foldable features is concerned. Given it’s just the company’s second stab at the form factor, it’s a bit understandable, and it will hopefully push out improvements quickly while the phone is still actively supported.

Sustainability

While the Vivo X Fold 2 is able to set itself apart from the others in terms of design, it isn’t that different when it comes to its effects on the environment. The choice of vegan or eco-leather is definitely a good one, but its positive effects are quite minimal compared to the other materials that make up the phone and its packaging. Vivo’s super-fast charging requires a proprietary charger, so it’s unavoidable to ship one in the box.

Sustainability wouldn’t be so bad if the product is made to last, but even then, this foldable might raise some concerns. There is no formal IP dust and water resistance rating, not even a formal assurance of its durability under the most common accidents. Granted, there are few foldable phones aside from Samsung and Huawei that can make such promises, but it is also an opportunity for brands like Vivo to step up their game and prove that they’re no small fry when it comes to providing their customers with peace of mind.

Value

The Vivo X Fold 2 is a bit of a mixed bag. It has a striking design that makes it memorable and attractive, and it also has the power to support all your mobile needs, from browsing to photography to gaming. The larger screens leave plenty of room for your content, or even two of them for the inner foldable screen. There are special features you won’t find in other foldable phones, like an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and a physical switch to silence notifications, ala the iPhone. We have a few complaints, of course, but nothing so glaring as to make the phone something to avoid.

That said, the biggest deal breaker for this stylish foldable is the fact that only a select number of people will be able to buy one in the first place. Never mind the roughly $1,300 price tag, the Vivo X Fold 2 isn’t even available in markets outside of China. Whether that situation will change, Vivo isn’t saying, but it will definitely need a more polished Funtouch OS experience to improve its reception in international markets.

Verdict

At this point, almost all the major smartphone players except Apple have entered the foldable smartphone market. The competition will soon be just as fierce as it is in the “normal” smartphone arena. With many of them having nearly the same hinges and almost crease-free displays, manufacturers will have to find ways to differentiate their products in other ways that create better value for their customers. That doesn’t always have to be new hardware or gimmicky features. Sometimes, just having a powerful and beautiful device is enough to get people to buy. Just ask Apple!

The Vivo X Fold 2 clearly tries to reach those goalposts. Its elegant design actually makes the off-center circular camera bump work in a simple yet memorable way. In addition to its powerful hardware, the foldable phone offers unique features as well, like larger screens and in-display fingerprint sensors that even industry leaders failed to offer. Unfortunately, Vivo seems to also have cut a few corners in the process, and while they’re not deal-breakers on their own, they make the experience less than ideal altogether. As a successor, the Vivo X Fold 2 definitely rises to the challenge, but Vivo will need to step up its game to really leave a lasting mark in this growing market.

Aki Ukita and JC Torres contributed to this review.

The post Vivo X Fold 2 Foldable Phone Review: Beautiful, Big, and Bewildering first appeared on Yanko Design.

Foldable phones have been in the market for four years now, and despite Samsung’s aggressive marketing, it is still considered a niche and a very expensive one at that. The “regular” book-style foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold, the OPPO Find N2, and the upcoming Google Pixel Fold definitely spark the imagination and open up new use cases, but they also lack the mass appeal necessary to make the product line a success. In a nutshell, they have a hard time explaining why people would want to cough up a large amount of cash for what seems to be an experimental and unproven device. The new Motorola Razr+, also known as the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra elsewhere, is seemingly saying that you really don’t have to, and its latest design might finally succeed by targeting the market demographic that made the RAZR V3 an icon.

Designer: Motorola

Back when clamshells or flip phones were en vogue, the Motorola RAZR V3 turned heads because of its thin profile and chic design that turned what was normally seen as a business phone into a lifestyle choice. Motorola tried to recreate not only that phone’s magic but also its commercial success, redesigning the now ancient clamshell into a modern foldable phone. After a few tries, Motorola might have finally gotten the formula right, not only with the phone’s design but also with its product positioning.

Right from the start, the new Motorola Razr sported one of the largest external or cover displays for clamshell foldables, but the Motorola Razr+ pushes that envelope even further by having that screen take up almost all of the available space on that half of the phone. It makes it possible to use almost any app in that space, presuming you can stomach the still-small 3.6-inch screen. More than just using it as a camera viewfinder for better selfies, you can also use it to watch Videos, check Instagram, or even type with a full QWERTY keyboard if absolutely necessary. It’s not going to be fun, but the idea is that you won’t have to flip the phone open just to use it like a normal phone, especially when circumstances prevent you from doing that in the first place.

The large screen also opens up more opportunities for styling beyond simple stickers and widgets. Along with the stylish color options that include 2023’s “Viva Magenta,” there is plenty for fun-loving and suave people to like in the Motorola Razr+. In fact, most of the brand’s marketing revolves around a generation who loves to take photos, flaunt their style, and see their smartphones as more than just tools. In other words, the very kind of people that gravitated toward the original RAZR V3.

It also doesn’t hurt that the Motorola Razr+ is expected to cost a lot less than the competition, or at least that’s the expectation when it fully launches in the US. Even if it does cost $1,200, which is pretty much the same price as today’s high-end smartphones, the Motorola Razr+’s stylish design and more flexible functions make the idea of a foldable phone a little bit more normal and definitely more desirable.

The post How the Motorola Razr+ will finally make you want foldable phones first appeared on Yanko Design.

Although Sony just debuted their first handheld gaming console ever since the PSP Street in 2011, the device, codenamed Project Q, received a lot of negative attention for how limited it was. The handheld console would, according to Sony, only work with the PS5, streaming games over a local WiFi connection. In short, you could only ‘stream’ games off the PS5 using a local internet connection, rather than playing your PS5 games anywhere. The folks at RIG were having none of that. Designed to be everything gamers wanted Sony’s Project Q to be, the RIG Nacon MG-X PRO gives gamers the ability to play all their favorite AAA games on the small screen, wherever they go. With its ergonomic design that lets you sandwich your smartphone in between, the MG-X PRO comes specially made for the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, giving you the ability to play all your favorite console games wherever you go. It’s also MFi-certified, allowing you to tap into your iPhone for some upper-echelon gaming that goes beyond the Apple Arcade.

Designer: RIG

Click Here to Buy Now

The design of the  MG-X PRO places emphasis on familiarity and ease of use. Crafted to mimic the layout of an Xbox controller, the device includes Home/Nexus, View, and Menu buttons, as well as clickable asymmetric analog sticks. This design pays tribute to the traditional gaming feel while keeping pace with the advancements of mobile gaming technology.

Where the RIG MG-X PRO truly shines is its adjustable phone cradle. Engineered to accommodate a variety of iPhone models, starting from iPhone 6 and newer, this versatile cradle comfortably fits screens up to 6.7 inches in size. So whether you’re still cherishing your old device or have just upgraded to the latest iPhone, this wireless mobile controller has you covered.

Gaming can sometimes get pretty intense, and you’d be right to worry whether your phone, quite literally, is in good hands. To that very degree, the RIG MG-X PRO is designed with rubberized clamps, ensuring that your phone remains secure while you’re in the thick of the action. The last thing you need in the middle of a virtual battle is your device slipping out of its holder, and whether it’s an Android device or iPhone, the MG-X PRO holds onto it pretty snugly and securely.

The RIG MG-X PRO connects to your device using Bluetooth 4.2 (+ BLE), which ideally isn’t as low-latency as WiFi, but it does keep your phone’s WiFi antenna free to connect to external networks so you can stream your games effectively. Although designed for the Xbox Game Pass, the controller works with other gaming platforms too, including Steam Link, Nvidia GeForce Now, PS Remote Play, and even Apple Arcade. The controller comes with its own built-in battery that promises 20 whopping hours of gameplay on a full charge. It juices in a mere 2 hours too, letting you jump right back into gameplay after a quick break.

Click Here to Buy Now

The post The Sony PlayStation ‘Project Q’ Controller Already has a Potent Xbox Rival That Plugs to your Smartphone first appeared on Yanko Design.

Even though we’re still 4 months away from the iPhone 15 being announced, the tech rumor mill is hard at work trying to decipher what future iPhone models will look like… and can you blame them? 8 out of 10 of the best-selling phones of 2022 were iPhones! While we’ve pretty much got some solid intel on what the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro will look like, designer Ivano Frankivsk put together a concept for what the 16 Pro model should look like. Marking a major deviation from the 13 Pro and 14 Pro models, this concept features a 4-lens camera system, and a double camera bump that’s staggered for some visual dynamism (as well as to make place for the Periscope Lens). The phone looks unapologetically Apple-like… but the staggered camera bump feels visually refreshing. It also makes enough space for a flash and a LiDAR sensor, allowing the iPhone 16 Pro to have perhaps the most advanced camera system we’ve ever seen on a smartphone!

Designer: Ivano Frankivsk (@vovalenard)

Details on the 16 Pro at this moment are scarce, but as far as we know, the iPhone is definitely going to get a USB-C model this year, given strict EU regulations that kick in in 2024. Since Apple’s phones sell for roughly 2 years before being discontinued, it makes sense for the company to make their USB-C model now, so that it doesn’t need to be pulled off the shelves next year in one of Apple’s biggest global markets. Suffice it to say, the 16 Pro will still have a USB-C, although Apple seems to really be gunning for a port-less iPhone in the somewhat distant future. It’s rumored that they even tried solid-state capacitive buttons, before reverting back to physical click buttons for the 15 Pro.

Frankivsk’s iPhone 16 Pro concept showcases a rather unique-looking camera bump, although to keen eyed enthusiasts, it’s just two iPhone X camera units placed one beside the other. This staggered design gives the phone enough space for each lens and sensor array, especially allowing Apple to cram a larger 48MP sensor into the cameras as well as that rumored Periscope Lens, which will be capable of impressive levels of optical zoom.

As far as the front goes, it still looks like the Dynamic Island will play a significant role in defining the front of the iPhone. Debuted just last year, the Dynamic Island was considered a welcome change after 6 full years of having a notch in the upper part of the bezel. It doesn’t look like under-screen cameras or fingerprint readers will be coming any time soon, although Samsung did reveal their latest Sensor OLED display on Monday, with the ability to read heart rate and blood pressure right through the screen’s touch interface.

The iPhone 16 Pro won’t arrive before September of next year, but credible leaks in the early days of 2024 will help us understand what the new phone will really look like.

The post iPhone 16 Pro renders surface online with staggered 4-lens camera system first appeared on Yanko Design.

Google may have killed Stadia, but smartphone gaming isn’t going ANYWHERE. If anything, it’s just begun, with Sony rumored to be thinking of debuting a new handheld PlayStation this year. Meet the SnapJoy, a set of ergonomic controllers that snap onto the corners of your phone (quite like this wild Xbox Cloud mobile gaming concept from a few years ago), turning it into a handheld console quite similar to the Switch or Steam Deck. Unlike the Switch or Steam Deck, however, the SnapJoy turns your trusty smartphone into a comprehensive gaming setup, with easy-to-grip controllers that have all the buttons you need, and a curved design that actually does a precious job of not blocking any part of your screen. The best part? Discreet bumper stickers that you apply to your phone allow it to snap securely onto the SnapJoy controllers, so there’s never any chance of them disengaging during intense gameplay.

Designer: Zak Boardman

Rendered on KeyShot: Click Here to Download Your Free Trial Now!

Designed by Zak Boardman, the beauty of the SnapJoy controllers are the fact that they exist independently as left and right devices that occupy hardly any space, making them easy to carry around in a bag with you wherever you go. Unlike the Steam Deck, which is a pretty massive piece of hardware, these controllers are the size of ergonomic mice, and snap to the phone in your pocket.

The way the SnapJoy controllers attach to your phone is quite brilliant. A rail guides the controllers onto the sides of the phone, with a tight tolerance for a great fit, and a set of powerful magnets help the controllers snap into place, helping them hold their position even if you’re gaming while lying down in bed.

Once snapped in place, they connect to your phone using BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) to work just the way regular wireless controllers do – although there’s a debate about whether that’s wiser than using a WiFi connection, which is a little trickier, but offers much lower latency.

The controllers themselves are fashioned with all the buttons needed for great gameplay, including two joysticks, a D-pad, action buttons, and all four L1/L2 and R1/R2 shoulder buttons. An internal battery in each controller supplies them with power, and a quick glance below also gives us a look at the internal components, which also include a vibration module for haptic feedback during gaming.

As per Boardman’s vision, the SnapJoy controllers come packaged with their own charging case, which holds four controller devices that enable two people to play games at the same time. Contact points within the case help charge each individual SnapJoy controller, and a backlit battery indicator in the case helps you gauge how much juice your controller has.

The SnapJoy controllers are conceptual for now, although Boardman has shown some progress with building 3D mock prototypes of the controller to judge their ergonomics and reliability. Let’s hope we see these in markets soon!

The post Level Up Your Mobile Gaming with this Snap-On Ergonomic Game Controller Concept first appeared on Yanko Design.

We have become extremely dependent on our smartphones these days, whether it’s for business, entertainment, social connections, or anything in between. Smartphones themselves have become quite capable of supporting a myriad of uses, from playing games to recording videos, but there’s only so much you can cram inside a small space. Fortunately, there’s a thriving market of accessories that can supplement what smartphones can do or even give them abilities they never had in the first place. That large market, unfortunately, is also overflowing with choices that can be downright overwhelming, so here are our Top 10 picks for smartphone accessories that can take your mobile experience to the next level.

1. SnapGrip MagSafe Camera Grip + Battery

Smartphones these days are very capable mobile cameras, but their designs aren’t always the best for that kind of use. The vertical candy bar design is, of course, the best shape for regular phone use, but unless all you do is take TikTok vids or square Instagram photos, you’ll be holding your phone horizontally like a traditional camera, which is an uncomfortable and precarious hold for a phone.

SnapGrip solves that problem with an ingenious design and offers an added feature to benefit mobile shutterbugs as well. Utilizing magnetic technology like Apple’s MagSafe, it attaches to the back of a compatible phone to provide not just a camera-like grip but also a physical shutter button that’s so much easier and safer to reach than the one on your screen. But wait, there’s more! The grip also functions as a wireless power bank, so you can shoot on and on without worry. And when the day is done, you can prop up your phone on a desk, using the multi-talented SnapGrip as a stand.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $69.99

2. Trexo Slider

A lot of people use their phones less as a phone and more as affordable yet powerful digital cameras. With how much technology has improved, higher-end smartphones can definitely take the place of some of these professional shooters, though there are still some tricks that they’re not exactly capable of. Stabilization is still a developing technology, especially when it comes to recording smooth video while moving. Thankfully, there are accessories to help with that.

The Trexo Slider is a rather unique product that literally takes the problem out of your hand. When all you need is a small linear movement, this compact photography equipment is the tool to beat. Simply set it down on a flat surface or prop it up on a tripod and say goodbye to jittery shots. Even better, you can program the Trexo Slider’s movements so that you can focus on making great content instead of worrying about the camera’s placement.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $349 $499 ($150 off).

3. Peak Design Everyday Case

Sometimes, all you really need to make your phone really shine is a beautiful case. It protects your phone and gives it a bit of personality to match yours, and it can even open the door to more functionality if it’s properly designed. That combination of simple elegance and open design is what makes Peak Design’s Everyday Case for the iPhone 14 series a true everyday hero.

Available with a fabric cover in color options of Charcoal and Sage, the Everyday Case exudes a luxurious character that still leaves plenty of room for customization. Peak Design’s innovative SlimLink mounting technology makes it compatible with a variety of other accessories from the company while still allowing access to MagSafe technology. It’s a visually simple design that minimalism fans will love, as well as a sophisticated accessory that power users will appreciate.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $29.99 $39.99 (25% off, only 4 pieces left!).

4. SuperCalla Cable

Even with the arrival of wireless technology, USB cables are still the most efficient and direct way not only to charge phones but also to transfer data. These cords, however, are anything but convenient, especially when, not if, they get tangled up inside your bag or drawer. Cable management only works on desks and tables, but not when you need to pull one out on the go. Rather than settling for clips and ribbons, it’s probably a better solution to change the design of the cable itself.

SuperCalla does what few accessory makers have tried to accomplish and refines the design of the age-old USB cable. While still retaining its basic form and flexibility, SuperCalla introduces magnetic rings that keep the cables from going all over the place, whether it’s fully uncoiled or neatly wrapped around. The cable’s durable yet flexible silicone tubing still gives it that shape-bending property that all cables have, giving you the same freedom as a regular cable but with the hassles of tangled messes.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $22

5. Mujjo Full Leather Wallet Case

Simple doesn’t have to mean boring, and this minimalist yet elegant case for the iPhone 14 Pro Max proves it beyond doubt. The unibody shell attaches and detaches without breaking a sweat, providing necessary protection without covering up important openings. It’s compatible with MagSafe charging and accessories, so you won’t lose out on any extra features even with the case on.

The Mujjo Full Leather Wallet Case, however, also has a few distinctive traits that raise its profile above the rest. Made from vegetable-tanned Ecco leather, the cover of the case ages gracefully over time, developing a patina that is unique to each and every owner. The diagonal cut of the card slot also gives it a rather unconventional method of displaying those cards, making your iPhone 14 Pro Max look rather unique and stylish to match your own aesthetics.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $19.90 $54.90 (64% off).

6. Tango Grip & Stand

Despite how durable smartphones are these days, their large sizes and slippery surfaces are still accidents waiting to happen. There are plenty of ways to mitigate such unfortunate events, but one of the most minimalist solutions has been the so-called ring holder or grip. Unfortunately, it happens to also be the most awkward solution, with a thick piece of plastic or metal sticking out of your phone 24/7.

The Tango Grip & Stand has a design that lets you have your cake and eat it too. When not in use, it’s just a thin, 2.9mm piece of metal sticking to your back. A simple push on an edge release the coin-like enclosure to reveal a steel helix structure that extends to become the grip your fingers need to hold the phone securely. This twisting metal is also sturdy enough to act as a phone stand, delivering a 2-in-1 accessory that thankfully also looks stylish when not in use.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19

7. ProLens Photography Kit

The cameras on the back of our mobile partners have gotten a lot more powerful, though they have also gotten a lot larger as well. Even then, they won’t be able to accommodate the myriad shots and needs of professional photographers, at least not without making a ton of sacrifices in terms of the phone’s size and price. Admittedly, cameras like DSLRs really only have one imaging sensor, but their flexibility mostly comes from how they can change lenses in a flash.

ShiftCam’s ProLens collection tries to recreate that same scenario with smartphones. Although you can’t change the lens that’s already built into your phone’s cameras, you can supplement them with a different kind of lens attachment as the shot requires. Thanks to a specially designed lens mount and a variety of lenses, you can achieve true 10x macro shots, fish-eye effects, 60mm portraits, and so much more without having to wait to upgrade phones.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $143.99 $229.99 ($86 off).

8. TwelveSouth BookBook Case

Some people put cases on their phones for added protection, while others choose one for self-expression. Of course, you can also have both, especially if the case is designed in such a way that clearly calls attention without being garish or overbearing. This folio case, for example, protects an iPhone while also providing space for some of your most important cards, all while looking like a classic masterpiece of literature miniaturized.

TwelveSouth’s BookBook is a funny yet charming tribute to book lovers and a luxurious treat for your phone. Made with premium leather, it gives the phone an appearance of a vintage book, complete with a decorative spine. Yes, it will make your iPhone look a bit bulky, but so would many folio wallet cases anyway. At least with this rather creative case design, you’ll be able to flaunt your sophistication while keeping your phone and money cards safe and sound.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $69.99

9. GravGrip Battery-Free Stabilizer

Smartphone manufacturers have been working on improving camera performance for the past years, but one aspect that seems to get left out lately is image and video stabilization. These features are present on many high-end phones, but it seems that most people have just become used to the shaky cam effect identified with smartphone footage. Unfortunately, that can hardly be considered professional, which is where handheld gimbals and stabilizers come in.

GravGrip sets itself apart by offering the same stabilization feat without using batteries, utilizing hydraulic mechanisms instead. This makes the stabilizer smaller, lighter, and more convenient to carry around, and it removes the worry of running out of battery when you need that silky smooth footage the most.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting from $39

10. Peak Design Mobile Wallet

Some people are more than satisfied with their smartphone’s capabilities, but that doesn’t mean they have to be limited to what the device can do. Given how we almost always have our smartphones with us, there is definitely a potential to let them do more, with the right accessories, of course. Some, for example, have started to use their phones to hold their IDs or their most important card, and this creative wallet delivers that functionality and more.

Peak Design’s Mobile Wallet is stylish MagSafe-compatible that can keep up to 7 cards always at hand. More than that, however, the Stand Wallet variant can also prop up your phone vertically or horizontally, with a precision-tuned friction hinge locking it into a stable position. Its 100% recycled nylon canvas material not only gives it durability and weatherproofing, it also makes the back of your phone look elegant, especially when paired with a matching Peak Design case.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59.95

The post Top 10 Smartphone Accessories to give your mobile superpowers to help you in daily life first appeared on Yanko Design.

The long-anticipated Google Pixel 7A smartphone has now been officially introduced at the I/O 2023 annual developer conference’s keynote event. Keeping in mind the competitive landscape with strong contenders such as Galaxy A54 5G and OnePlus 11R. Google had to offer something compelling and that’s what they’ve done with the new value-oriented Pixel smartphone.

The device is hard to distinguish from the Pixel 7 that was released last fall with its aluminum camera island and metallic side rails. Only if one notices closely, the camera bump on this one is a bit thinner. Most importantly the new release is quite a few levels increment over the Pixel 6A and that too at a $100 lower price bracket. Along with this Google also announced the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet at the event, so quite a lot to look forward to for prospective buyers.

Designer: Google

For starter, the Pixel 7A has a 90Hz refresh rate screen option for a smoother user experience. A very common complaint that Pixel 6A users and critics shouted out loud since it is a basic feature nowadays. The device also comes with wireless charging capability and face unlock feature that should lure more buyers into the Google ecosystem.

Another added perk is the presence of Tensor G2 processor that also powers the guts of the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro flagship costing $599 and $899 (unlocked version) respectively. That means the Pixel 7A will have same software trickery up its sleeve like voice-to-text, image Real Tone processing and Photo Unblur features.

The phone gets IP67 water and dust resistance rating and the 6.1-inch 1080p OLED display gets Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection. This size is just right for small-handed people as compared to the 6.3-inch Pixel 7. The camera setup on the smartphone is impressive as predicted with a 64MP primary sensor and a 13MP ultrawide shooter. Pixel devices are known for their camera prowess and 7A ups the ante with a higher resolution than the Pixel 7. The front-facing camera is also better with 13MP resolution.

The 128GB storage and 8GB of RAM could have got any other variant in 256GB configuration but we aren’t complaining. Google bringing many premium features at a lesser price tag of $499 to its devices is a clear sign it wants to compete for the bigger chunk of the market.

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It’s fascinating to see how mobile devices constantly evolve year after year, providing users with a broader range of options to suit their needs. The Google Pixel Fold is a perfect example of this, as it combines smartphone and tablet technology to push the boundaries of innovation in the Android market. Foldable smartphones have risen in recent years, and Google is finally getting into the game with the Pixel Fold. This device offers a versatile form factor that seamlessly transitions between folded and unfolded states, meeting the demands of users who want the best of both worlds, powered by the rawest form of the Android operating system.

Designer: Google

The Pixel Fold has an exceptionally proven camera system that takes full advantage of its distinct design, providing a smooth experience on both screens. The phone’s rear camera has a 10.8 MP ultrawide lens, a 48 MP primary camera, and a 5X telephoto lens. Additionally, the inner camera has an 8 MP lens.

The Tensor G2 and Android, combined with AI, make the Pixel Fold a powerful phone that transforms into a compact tablet. When folded, it reveals a slim 5.8-inch front display that easily fits in your pocket, making it the thinnest foldable on the market.

Experience a larger-than-typical smartphone display with the Pixel Fold. Simply unfold it to reveal a spacious 7.6-inch screen. Its custom 180-degree fluid friction hinge ensures a flat and crease-free display. Plus, the Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides scratch resistance, and its IPX8 water-resistant design safeguards it against the elements.

The Pixel Fold is incredibly slim, with a thickness of only 0.5 inches. When closed, it measures 3.1 inches in width and 5.5 inches in height. Once it is unfolded, its overall size is 6.2 inches. Amazingly, it only weighs 10 ounces.

Despite its size, this device’s battery is smaller than its competitors and other Pixel phones, with only 4821 mAh. However, Google assures users of a battery life of more than 24 hours or up to 72 hours with Extreme Battery Saver mode on. Unfortunately, the fast charging feature requires a separate purchase of a 30W USB-C charger.

As a globetrotter, one feature I’m most excited to try out is the dual-screen interpreter mode for real-time translation and all the personal AI features expected from a Pixel device, including safety speech and call assist. This is also an excellent entertainment device, with a “tabletop mode” for optimized video playback and the ability to switch displays within an app.

You can now place a preorder for the Pixel Fold, which will be shipped next month. As a bonus, if you preorder, you can receive a free Pixel Watch. The Pixel Fold is a high-end device that Google has put a lot of effort into creating. It starts at $1,799 for the 256 GB model and goes up to $1,919 for the 512 GB model, which is only available in Obsidian. However, the Porcelain model only comes with 256GB and is exclusively sold in the Google Play store.

Considering that the Pixel Fold is a first-generation device, the cost charged by Google better come with a long-lasting build. We’re excited to test out the design and usability of the device once we get our hands on it.

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Huawei launched the newest foldable phone HUAWEI Mate X3 in global markets alongside the HUAWEI P60 Pro. Huawei has released fold phones in different form factors in the past. There is an outward folding Mate Xs and Xs 2, an inward folding X2, and a flip P50 pocket. Adding to the wide range of Huawei’s fold smartphones, Mate X3 packs impressive features in an ultra-thin, ultra-light body.

Designer: Huawei

Mate X3 is remarkably thin and light compared to other folding phones with similar screen sizes. Roughly 21% thinner when folded compared to Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, Mate X3 is only 11.08mm thick when folded and 5.3mm when unfolded. It weighs 239g, about 9% lighter than Galaxy Z Fold 4.

Mate X3 features a big 6.4 -inch 3D OLED external display with 2,496 x 2,224 resolution and a 7.58-inch foldable OLED internal screen with 2,504 x 1,080 resolution. Both the internal and external displays support 426 PPI pixel density with LPTO 120 Hz refresh rate.

The external screen is equipped with Kunlun Glass to resist breaks and scratches. On the other hand, the internal screen sports a composite layer structure utilizing non-Newtonian fluid material for durability. Huawei claims Mate X3’s external screen offers ten times more drop-resistance than its predecessor, while the internal screen is four times more impact-resistant.

The new-generation multi-dimensional hinge allows the device to stay open from 45 to 100 degrees and close flat when folded. The hinge is made with aviation-grade aluminum alloy for durability and a smooth folding-unfolding experience.

A significant upgrade from the predecessor Mate X2 is the addition of an IPX8 water-resistant rating, which is a rarity on foldable phones, with the exception of Samsung phones.

Mate X3 packs a 50MP primary camera, a 13MP ultrawide camera with macro support, and a 12MP periscope telephoto camera capable of 5x optical zoom with OIS. And there is an 8MP selfie camera on both internal and external screens.

The camera setup is housed in a unique camera module design inspired by the portholes of space stations. The camera module with a circular bump matching the back panel and a contrasting black rectangular bar that nests the cameras gives the device a distinctive aesthetic focus.

Mate X3 comes with a 4800mAh battery and supports 66w wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and 7.5W reverse charging. Huawei says the device can be fully juiced up in 37 minutes with a cable. In addition, the device adapts the cross-hinge graphene cooling system for greater heat dissipation across the screens.

Mate X3 is available in black Feather-Sand Glass and dark green Vegan leather. Getting an ultra-thin capable Mate X3 is costly, and it will cost you 2199 Euros or 1999.99 Pounds.

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Huawei is raising the mobile photography bar with its latest P-series flagship smartphone, HUAWEI P60 Pro. Released in March this year in China and now available in Europe and UK, the newest flagship smartphone from Huawei features a fully upgraded camera array, durable Kunlun glass, and premium aesthetics.

P60 Pro boasts a triple camera setup on its rear, comprising a 48MP main, a 48MP telephoto which can be used as a macro, and a 13MP ultrawide, which can also take micro photos. Flip to the other side, and there is a 13 MP selfie camera.

Designer: Huawei

The main camera is equipped with a physical aperture that can be set to ten different stops ranging from f/1.4 to f/4.0, just like HUAWEI Mate 50 Pro. Combined with a high transmittance lens group is an RYYB SuperSensing sensor with OIS. According to Huawei, P60 Pro’s main camera can capture three times more light than its predecessor, producing photos with high dynamic range.

The redesigned 48MP telephoto camera features the world’s first multi-lens groups and an f/2.1 aperture, the largest in the industry. The telephoto camera also features a RYYB sensor with OIS and is capable of 3.5x optical zoom. In addition, Huawei claims the telephoto camera with 13 MP Ultra-wide camera uses a RYYB sensor with an f/2.2.

For P60 Pro, Huawei steered away from the giant camera module trends we’ve seen from other brands’ camera-focused flagship smartphones. Instead, P60 Pro adapts a more subtle camera bump. The camera module design Huawei calls “The Eye of Light” features a rectangular camera bump that matches the back panel color. The main camera is housed in the middle of the camera module, accompanied by the ultrawide camera on one side and the telephoto camera on the other side.

For the global market, P60 Pro comes in two colorways – Rococo Pearl and Black. Rococo Pearl finish produces distinct patterns on each phone, making your device unique and elegant.

P60 Pro sports a 6.67-inch OLED display with 1-120Hz adaptive LTPO, ensuring smooth image during intensive tasks while conserving battery during less demanding workloads. New to the P series is the Quad-Curve Display with Huawei-exclusive Kunlun Glass. Weigh a mere 200g, P60 Pro’s slightly curved four sides wedded with more round edges provide a more comfortable grip and immersive display. In addition, the device has an IP68 dust and water-resistant rate.

A slight upgrade from its predecessor, P60 Pro packs a 4815 mAh battery which supports 88W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and 7.5W reverse wireless charging. Not the biggest battery or fastest charging speed, but it should last a whole day easily. And if you need to quickly top-up, Turbo mode can charge the device to 50% in just 10 minutes. Huawei does not cut corners with the charger either. P60 Pro comes with an 88W dual-port charger that lets you charge devices via USB-C or USB-A.

P60 Pro runs the latest EMUI 13.1 operating system out of the box. Improved UI for the software includes a zoom scroll bar and an easily accessible camera menu, making it easy to shoot photos with one hand.

P60 Pro comes in two variants for each color in Europe. 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage will retail for 1,199 EUR, and 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage is priced at 1,399 EUR. UK consumers only get one memory variant per color. Black comes with 8GB RAM/256GB storage and costs 1199.99 GBP, while Rococo Pearl comes with 12GB RAM/512GB storage and will set you back 1299.99 GBP.

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