Reviews - Yanko Design https://www.yankodesign.com Modern Industrial Design News Tue, 07 Jan 2025 18:50:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 OnePlus 13 Review: Redefining What It Means to Never Settle https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/01/07/oneplus-13-review-redefining-what-it-means-to-never-settle/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=oneplus-13-review-redefining-what-it-means-to-never-settle Tue, 07 Jan 2025 20:00:35 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=528005

OnePlus 13 Review: Redefining What It Means to Never Settle

Most people put out New Year’s resolutions at the start of the year to make sure they put their best foot forward from the get-go....
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PROS:


  • Elegant and sustainable micro-fiber vegan leather material

  • Innovative Triprism lens helps keep the phone thin and light

  • Clean and fast OxygenOS 15 Android experience

  • Large 6,000mAh battery with fast wired and wireless charging

CONS:


  • New vegan leather material available only on one colorway

  • Off-center camera position can cause wobbling on desks

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With a distinctive elegance and uncompromising performance, the OnePlus 13 reaffirms the brand's philosophy of pushing the boundaries of what smartphone flagships are truly capable of.

Most people put out New Year’s resolutions at the start of the year to make sure they put their best foot forward from the get-go. For OnePlus, that means starting the year with a “BANG!” by unleashing its newest flagship to the whole world. Already in its 12th incarnation (skipping the nefarious “4” and skipping the “T” models), the brand has gone through just as many redesigns and direction changes, all while still trying to stay true to the revolutionary spirit that quickly catapulted it into fame.

The OnePlus 13 is poised to be the culmination of that colorful history, at least up to this point, leveraging all the lessons that it learned in over 10 years while also boldly venturing into new territory. Can its latest flagship live up to its pedigree or has the brand lost its way? We take the OnePlus 13 for a spin to find out if the former upstart’s spirit lives on.

Designer: OnePlus

Aesthetics

OnePlus has always been quite revolutionary when it comes to the materials it uses for its smartphones, from wood to sandstone to faux leather. For the OnePlus 13, it opted to revisit materials associated with luxury products, in this case, leather. But in typical OnePlus fashion, it wasn’t content to just slap on that luxurious but unsustainable material and it created its own eco-friendly variant.

With the world’s first microfiber vegan leather applied to a smartphone, the OnePlus 13 immediately exudes a sophisticated appearance that doesn’t just look good but also feels great. It’s soft and warm to touch, adding a new tactile dimension to the smartphone experience. It also puts an extra level of durability into play, protecting the phone from high-temperature, salt spray, and even chemical exposure.

It’s undoubtedly a nice touch (pun intended), but it’s sadly not standard across the different colorways. Black Eclipse instead uses a unique process that gives its glass back a texture reminiscent of rosewood grain, a material near and dear to OnePlus’s heart. Compared to these two, unfortunately, the white Arctic Dawn looks and feels almost too mundane.

The OnePlus 13 also tries to combine the best of modern designs. On the one hand, you have the predominant flat aesthetic clearly seen on the phone’s edges. On the other hand, OnePlus also applied a quad-curved glass for the front, making the surface blend gracefully into the mid-frame. The back has a similar subtle curve around the edges, not enough to make it feel like you’re holding a phone from the 2010s.

If there’s one detail about the design that might not sit well with everyone, it would be the cameras. Large circles are in fashion today, but many now try to put that raised disc in the middle rather than off to the side like the OnePlus 13. While aesthetic tastes may vary, the design does have some practical implications on the weight distribution of the product. Suffice it to say, expect it to wobble when you tap on it on a flat surface like a table.

Ergonomics

As well get to later, the OnePlus 13 is packed with quite a number of powerful hardware, including a very large battery pack. It needs at least that much to have a competitive edge, but thankfully that doesn’t come at the expense of the phone’s usability and ergonomics. In fact, despite all that, the OnePlus 13 is only 210g light and 8.5mm thin, a remarkable feat indeed.

What these figures mean in practice is that the phone remains comfortable to hold, giving confidence whenever you hold the phone in your hand. The texture of the microfiber vegan leather material also improves your grip, ensuring that the OnePlus 13 won’t easily escape your grasp.

Performance

As an early 2025 flagship, it’s no surprise that the OnePlus 13 would have the best of the best hardware available in the smartphone market at this point. That means, of course, the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 16GB of memory, and 512GB of storage. You’ll hardly see the OnePlus 13 choke on anything you throw at it, from gaming to AI-powered photo touch-ups, and a massive cooling vapor chamber ensures it’s running at peak performance longer.

On the software side, the OnePlus 13 runs OxygenOS 15, which is based on Android 15. Unlike most “skins,” the latest iteration of the brand’s custom Android experience is pleasantly clean and light. It’s no accident, of course, as the company intentionally fine-tuned the user experience to feel fast and smooth to give it the feeling of responsiveness. Of course, there’s no shortage of AI features, both OnePlus’ as well as Google’s Gemini, and it can handle those functions quite gracefully.

Just as interesting as its back is the OnePlus 13’s front, where a flat 6.8-inch QHD+ (3168×1440) screen lies. It’s bright, colorful, and fast, making your content pop whether they’re static photos or fast-moving games. The experience, however, goes beyond just looking good, with a new Glove Mode that lets you operate the display even while wearing woolen or sheepskin gloves up to 0.5cm in thickness. And considering how much time we spend on our phone screens, the 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming promises to put less strain on the eyes.

Part of the reason for the OnePlus 13’s large size is the 6,000mAh battery inside. That’s immediately larger than what most flagship smartphones carry, and yet the OnePlus 13 manages to still remain thin and lightweight. More than just the oversized capacity and battery life, the battery also impresses with its fast 80W wired and 50W wireless charging speeds, making sure you’re up and running again in a little over 30 minutes. That is, of course, if you’re using compatible proprietary OnePlus chargers.

With mobile photography as one of the top reasons people buy smartphones today, it’s no surprise that OnePlus invested quite a lot on its new flagship’s camera system. It’s becoming quite trendy to finally have nearly co-equal camera sensors, in this case three 50MP cameras that deliver clear, detailed, and beautiful images, regardless of the angle or focal length.

A large 1/1.4-inch Sony LYT-808 leads the pack with an equally large f/1.6 aperture, making short work of most shots under any lighting condition. The 50MP Samsung ISOCELL JN5 sensor on the ultra-wide camera delivers a breath-taking panorama with every shot, and it doesn’t sacrifice any quality to get there. Having the same megapixel count removes that jarring jump when switching cameras, making it feel like you’re using a single camera with different lenses instead.

Admittedly, the most interesting of the three is the telephoto camera, and not just because of its 1/1.95-inch Sony LYT-600 sensor. It uses an innovative Triprism lens design that, despite having more prisms than your typical periscope-style telephoto lens, actually takes up less space inside. That’s how the OnePlus 13 manages to be thinner than the competition and still deliver a 3x optical zoom with a 73mm equivalent focal length.

Suffice it to say, the OnePlus 13 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to camera output, both in still photos and in videos. Even on an overcast day, you still get plenty of details and sharpness, even when zoomed in. And with its partnership with Hasselblad, portraits come out perfectly as if they were taken by professional Hasselblad cameras.

Sustainability

Smartphones remain one of the most numerous mass-produced electronics in the world today, and there’s no slowing down that market. This means millions of units are still produced annually, and just as many are replaced or simply discarded frequently. Any small change that reduces a phone’s negative impact on the environment adds up in the long run, like going with a more sustainable material such as the OnePlus 13’s microfiber vegan leather.

It definitely helps if a smartphone doesn’t have to be replaced any time soon, whether because of damages or obsolescence. The OnePlus 13 boasts IP68 as well as IP69 ratings, so some water accidents need not cause a panic. OnePlus also promises four years of software updates and an additional six years of security updates, ensuring that your phone is running smoothly for years to come.

Value

With quite a number of players in this already crowded market, OnePlus is definitely smart in getting a head start this year with the global launch of the OnePlus 13. It is making a competitive and well-rounded product available early before some of its rivals even announce their next big thing. And the OnePlus 13 is definitely worth checking out with all the features it has to offer.

More than just the powerful high-end hardware, impressive triple 50MP cameras, and long-lasting battery, what the OnePlus 13 offers is a holistic experience that checks all the right boxes. An elegant and sustainable design, a clean and fast user interface, and the right balance of AI-driven features, all contribute into making the OnePlus 13 a good choice for an early 2025 purchase.

Verdict

OnePlus began as a challenge to the status quo of the smartphone market and delivered products that made the same premium features more accessible to people. It was never just about the price, however, and the focus was always on providing a design and user experience that could keep up with users’ needs and preferences, facets of their lives that change and grow over time.

The OnePlus 13 aims to be that kind of companion on people’s life journeys. Not just a technological tool but a part and extension of themselves. Its future-proof features, stylish aesthetics, and environment-conscious design allow it to keep up with users from all walks of life, whether they’re content creators, mobile gamers, knowledge workers, or anyone in between. In that sense, the OnePlus 13 definitely carries the torch of the brand’s “Never Settle” philosophy, delivering an uncompromising experience that empowers you to stay ahead.

The post OnePlus 13 Review: Redefining What It Means to Never Settle first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra Review: You Won’t Believe How This Cleaner Works Like Magic https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/01/07/beatbot-aquasense-2-ultra-review-you-wont-believe-how-this-cleaner-works-like-magic/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=beatbot-aquasense-2-ultra-review-you-wont-believe-how-this-cleaner-works-like-magic Tue, 07 Jan 2025 15:30:42 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=527493

Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra Review: You Won’t Believe How This Cleaner Works Like Magic

AquaSense 2 Ultra represents a new benchmark in automated pool maintenance. It fuses HybridSense AI Pool Mapping with a sophisticated combination of AI cameras, ultrasonic...
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PROS:


  • The intelligent multi-sensor system combines AI cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and infrared detection for unmatched adaptability across intricate pool designs.

  • Real-time app controls allow users to target specific trouble spots, adding flexibility to its autonomous cleaning capabilities.

  • The industry-first 5-in-1 cleaning system simplifies pool maintenance by addressing surfaces, walls, waterline, and even the water itself in one cycle.

  • SmartDrain floating system ensures hassle-free retrieval, making it accessible and convenient for all users.

  • Sustainability-focused design uses eco-friendly clarifiers and energy-efficient operations to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing performance.

CONS:


  • Premium price point might deter budget-conscious buyers, despite its long-term value and advanced features.

  • Heavier build than some competitors, which could be challenging for individuals with limited strength during handling or storage.

  • Limited compatibility with irregularly shaped pools with highly unconventional layouts, potentially requiring manual intervention in rare cases.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The AquaSense 2 Ultra turns pool maintenance into a seamless experience, combining advanced technology with thoughtful design—one of the best automated robotic pool cleaners money can buy.

AquaSense 2 Ultra represents a new benchmark in automated pool maintenance. It fuses HybridSense AI Pool Mapping with a sophisticated combination of AI cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and infrared detection that adapt to even the most intricate pool designs. This multi-sensor strategy collects real-time information about depth changes and obstacle placement, allowing AquaSense 2 Ultra to plan a cleaning path that conserves energy without missing a spot. Pool owners benefit from an intelligent process that reduces the need for repeated passes or manual readjustments.

Designer: Beatbot

Part of what makes the AquaSense 2 Ultra so effective is the natural synergy between hardware and software. It perceives small objects floating on the surface and more substantial debris lurking along the floor with a level of clarity typically absent from traditional robotic cleaners. This set-it-and-forget-it concept appeals to busy homeowners who want a seamless cleaning solution that does not require constant intervention. By mapping the pool with fine detail, it also recognizes multi-level platforms and tricky corners that generic systems might skip.

The presence of an industry-first 5-in-1 cleaning system offers more than simple vacuuming. AquaSense 2 Ultra tackles the water surface, waterline, walls, floors, and the water itself in a single, cohesive sweep. This design cuts out the hassle of coordinating multiple tools for different areas. Dual-side brushes and roller brushes work in tandem to dislodge dirt, while the ClearWater Clarification System dispatches an eco-friendly clarifier that binds oils and tiny particles into clumps for easier filtration.

Its user-centric features enhance pool care to a new standard. By bringing advanced technology into a straightforward package, the AquaSense 2 Ultra changes the conversation around robotic cleaners. With each cycle, it blends practical benefits—like time savings and thorough coverage—with the ease of integrated app controls and scheduling. This emphasis on efficiency, convenience, and adaptability sets the AquaSense brand apart from the average cleaner.

Design/Aesthetics

The AquaSense 2 Ultra shows off a sleek profile that complements both modern and traditional poolscapes. Its exterior casing has smooth edges that contour gracefully, giving it a streamlined presence whether it is on the pool deck or submerged in water. The positioning of the AI cameras and infrared sensors is subtly executed so the device does not appear cluttered or overly mechanical. This balance between function and form means it can handle demanding tasks without looking bulky or out of place.

Design choices also reflect a focus on durability. Materials that resist corrosion and withstand exposure to pool chemicals form the foundation of the cleaner. The dual-side brushes and roller brushes are strategically aligned to create symmetry, turning a potentially messy arrangement of moving parts into a visually coherent pattern. Each design element highlights the AquaSense 2 Ultra’s dual role as both a high-performance appliance and a visually refined addition to the pool environment.

Simplicity rules the overall aesthetic, avoiding excessive curves or decorations while focusing on optimal performance. The device’s moderate height and low center of gravity lend stability as it moves around walls and floors. Even the handles for lifting or removing the unit are integrated with a sense of fluidity, so they don’t interrupt the smooth silhouette when the cleaner is operating.

The AquaSense approach to style respects the fact that modern homeowners prize both functionality and tasteful presentation. By incorporating a cohesive design language, the AquaSense 2 Ultra fits neatly into a setting that values subtlety. Its thoughtful execution gives the product a tech-forward vibe without overwhelming the pool’s natural appeal.

Ergonomics

AquaSense 2 Ultra addresses everyday user challenges through ergonomic details that can be immediately appreciated. Retrieving a water-filled cleaner from the bottom of the pool is often an unpleasant chore, so the AquaSense solution includes a SmartDrain surface parking system. Once the cleaning run finishes or battery power gets low, the cleaner floats to the pool’s edge through controlled buoyancy, making it easier to grab without straining your back.

The companion app also adds a layer of ergonomic convenience by placing real-time navigation in the palm of your hand. If you spot pockets of leaves or debris, you can steer the AquaSense 2 Ultra precisely where it needs to go. This feature aids those who like to be hands-on in their cleaning approach while still allowing the device to operate on its own when desired. The user-friendly interface, compatible with both iOS and Android, offers a clear view of cleaning progress, scheduling, and stored cleaning records.

Handling the AquaSense 2 Ultra outside the pool is made smoother by a compact, streamlined body that stays balanced when lifted. Unlike conventional cleaners with bulky shapes that twist awkwardly, this device keeps a low profile. The arrangement of the brushes and wheels is designed to prevent tangling, so there’s minimal fuss when the machine is placed on the deck or stored away between uses.

Even routine tasks like removing the filter or checking the brushes have been simplified. AquaSense 2 Ultra’s housing opens with little effort and requires no specialized tools. This attention to detail ensures pool owners spend less time wrestling with the product and more time enjoying the benefits of a consistently clean swimming space.

Performance

AquaSense 2 Ultra leverages HybridSense AI Pool Mapping to deliver precision cleaning. Its intelligent sensors, including AI cameras, ultrasonic mapping, and infrared detection, collaborate to map the pool environment comprehensively. This ensures that obstacles like ladders and steps are identified while debris, such as leaves and twigs, is effectively targeted. By analyzing its surroundings in real-time, the AquaSense 2 Ultra avoids wasted energy on empty passes and focuses solely on areas needing attention.

The 5-in-1 cleaning system transforms pool maintenance by addressing waterline scrubbing, wall cleaning, and water clarification in a single cycle. Equipped with dual-side brushes and high-traction wheels, the AquaSense 2 Ultra easily tackles curved corners and vertical surfaces. The powerful 5,500 GPH suction system efficiently eliminates sediment and algae that collect in typically hard-to-reach spots like pool steps and corners, ensuring comprehensive cleaning.

The AquaSense 2 Ultra’s indispensable debris-detection capabilities classify waste types, such as clusters of leaves near drains or smaller particles dispersed across the floor. The cleaner then optimizes its route to reduce unnecessary effort. This significantly improves cleaning efficiency and minimizes wear and tear on the unit. Pools with intricate designs or features like infinity edges particularly benefit from its meticulous N-shaped cleaning pattern.

AquaSense Pro with 2 Ultra and iSkim

Adaptability plays a pivotal role in the device’s performance. After a storm, the AquaSense 2 Ultra recalibrates its path to handle floating debris and windblown dirt, while its regular over-the-air updates ensure it stays equipped to tackle evolving cleaning challenges. For seasonal pool maintenance, it excels at collecting finer particles, such as pollen or dust, which other cleaners often miss.

The app integration extends its functionality even further. Owners can direct the cleaner to focus on specific trouble spots—for instance, the aftermath of a pool party—while still benefiting from its autonomous daily cleaning mode. This feature empowers users who prefer a hands-on approach without compromising the unit’s ability to manage the pool independently when desired.

The AquaSense 2 Ultra impresses with its consistent and reliable performance, delivering dependable results every day. Be it routine cleaning or tackling one-off messes, its high-efficiency motor and real-time path adjustments guarantee reliable results. Pools that experience frequent use, whether for recreation or exercise, remain inviting and hygienic with minimal effort from the owner.

Ultimately, the AquaSense 2 Ultra’s intelligent design merges practicality with advanced technology. It transforms pool cleaning from a labor-intensive task into a seamless experience, ensuring pristine swimming conditions while saving time and energy.

Sustainability

AquaSense 2 Ultra champions an eco-friendly philosophy by weaving sustainable practices directly into its design. The ClearWater Clarification System dispenses an earth-conscious clarifier that gathers oils and microscopic particles into clumps for easier filtration. This approach lowers chemical usage, so owners can maintain cleaner water without constantly over-treating it with synthetic agents. Over time, this method can reduce dependence on harsh cleansers, creating a gentler environment for swimmers and the surrounding ecosystem.

The efficiency of HybridSense AI Pool Mapping also contributes to sustainability. Since the AquaSense 2 Ultra modifies its route to avoid unnecessary retracing, it completes each pass with minimal energy expenditure. Fewer hours spent circulating in the pool mean smaller power bills and less strain on the battery over the product’s lifetime. This optimized approach delivers cost savings for the owner and a reduced carbon footprint for the planet.

Longevity and adaptability also tie into this ecological perspective. Regular over-the-air updates keep the AquaSense 2 Ultra at the forefront of technology, eliminating the need to replace hardware just to access new features. As the software evolves, it refines how the robot cleans, boosting overall effectiveness without generating more waste. By proactively extending its functionality, the Beatbot brand underscores its commitment to a sustainable future.

Even the packaging and build materials echo this commitment. Durable plastics and rust-resistant alloys ensure that the cleaner isn’t disposable; it is a long-term investment that withstands chlorine, sun exposure, and frequent use. By combining eco-conscious engineering with a robust maintenance model, the AquaSense 2 Ultra proves that performance and sustainability can exist in tandem.

Value and Conclusion

The AquaSense 2 Ultra goes beyond the basic task of vacuuming debris and emerges as a genuinely advanced solution for total pool maintenance. Through its HybridSense AI Pool Mapping and multi-sensor integration, it goes beyond single-method navigation, delivering a flexible cleaning path that precisely fits each pool’s layout. The device tackles a broad spectrum of duties, from surface skimming to wall scrubbing and water clarification, sparing owners the burden of juggling multiple tools or carrying out manual brushing.

A dedicated app enhances ease of use by providing real-time navigation, scheduling, and progress tracking. You can guide the AquaSense 2 Ultra through stubborn patches of floating debris or let it function autonomously during daily maintenance cycles. Smart features like one-click parking and automatic surface floatation also reduce the physical strain associated with retrieving the unit when its job is done.

By incorporating an eco-friendly clarifier and adaptive route planning, the AquaSense 2 Ultra emphasizes thoughtful design that conserves resources. Its hardware is built to last, and its software receives updates that expand debris recognition, ensuring the device remains relevant and effective over time. This future-proof angle strengthens the investment, as owners benefit from constant improvements without replacing the core machine.

Ultimately, AquaSense 2 Ultra merges performance, convenience, and sustainability into a single package that redefines what a pool cleaner can be. The combination of hybrid mapping, robust scrubbing power, and streamlined app controls delivers a product that meets the expectations of discerning pool owners. It is a worthy choice for anyone wanting to devote less time to manual maintenance and more time to actually enjoying their pool.

The post Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra Review: You Won’t Believe How This Cleaner Works Like Magic first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Apple Link Bracelet Review: Timeless Elegance Meets Everyday Durability for Watch 10 Titanium https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/12/26/apple-link-bracelet-review-timeless-elegance-meets-everyday-durability-for-watch-10-titanium/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=apple-link-bracelet-review-timeless-elegance-meets-everyday-durability-for-watch-10-titanium Thu, 26 Dec 2024 23:36:31 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=526355

Apple Link Bracelet Review: Timeless Elegance Meets Everyday Durability for Watch 10 Titanium

I’ve always been drawn to the look of a classic stainless steel band because there’s an unmistakable feeling of substance around a metal bracelet that...
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I’ve always been drawn to the look of a classic stainless steel band because there’s an unmistakable feeling of substance around a metal bracelet that wraps around your wrist with a sense of presence. That’s why Apple’s Link Bracelet has been a staple in my lineup since the early days of the wearable’s launch, and with the recent introduction of three fresh colorways for the Series 10 era, I felt it was time to revisit this product in more detail. Many enthusiasts remember how this band was introduced at the same time as the original Apple Watch, and the initial reaction was a mix of admiration for its smooth metal segments and concern over its added weight. Years have passed and the Link Bracelet is still here, and that steadfast endurance makes it a top choice for anyone wanting to enhance their watch’s overall feel. I have tried several bands since, including the rubber Solo Loop for more active days, yet I always return to the stainless steel option as a dependable favorite. The only other band that comes close to matching my fondness is that rubber strap. With this new Link design, I get that almost seamless loop around my wrist, complete with a butterfly clasp that is so flush you can forget it is there.

PROS:


  • Seamless integration with Apple Watch for a cohesive look.

  • Durable brushed stainless steel resists scuffs.

  • Timeless elegance in Natural, Slate, and Gold finishes.

  • Smooth links offer comfortable all-day wear.

  • Long-lasting and compatible with new Apple Watch generations.

CONS:


  • Premium pricing may deter some buyers.

  • Weight could feel heavy for those used to lighter bands.

  • No micro-adjustment option for fine-tuning fit.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Apple’s Link Bracelet combines timeless elegance with unmatched durability, seamlessly enhancing the Apple Watch experience.
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Designer: Apple

Design

Apple’s Link Bracelet is a masterpiece of design and aesthetic refinement, and its design remains one of the most compelling reasons to choose this band for your Apple Watch. At the heart of this design lies the butterfly clasp. Unlike clasps on many traditional metal bands, which often protrude and disrupt the bracelet’s continuity, Apple’s butterfly clasp is fully integrated into the chain of links. This seamless approach allows the clasp to disappear when closed, preserving the bracelet’s fluid appearance and creating a nearly infinite loop around your wrist.

Material choices play a crucial role in defining the character of the Link Bracelet. The Natural color, which I’m reviewing, offers a timeless brushed stainless steel finish that captures light in a subtle yet captivating way. It’s versatile enough to adapt to various lighting conditions—indoors, it presents as a soft matte silver with a hint of warmth, while in natural sunlight, it gleams with a slightly brighter, more polished sheen. This adaptability makes it an excellent match for the Natural Titanium Apple Watch case, maintaining a cohesive yet understated aesthetic.

For those seeking a darker, more dramatic look, the new Slate color delivers. Its titanium-like tone balances contemporary appeal with sophistication. Indoors, Slate offers a muted gunmetal hue that feels bold without being overpowering. Outdoors reveal a slightly lighter, smoky gray quality that enhances its depth and richness. It is an excellent option for pairing with darker watch cases or for making a subtle statement of contemporary style.

The Gold finish, meanwhile, is unapologetically luxurious. This color exudes a bright, attention-grabbing shimmer that appeals to those who favor bold style choices. Whether paired with a matching gold watch or used to create contrast, this finish thrives in environments with ample light, where its reflective qualities can shine.

Each link in the bracelet is meticulously crafted from stainless steel, with a brushed finish on the top surfaces and subtly polished edges. This combination enhances the bracelet’s texture and creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. Indoors, the brushed finish looks refined and understated, while outdoors, the polished edges catch the sunlight, adding a touch of sparkle that elevates the overall appearance.

The material choices and finishes contribute directly to the Link Bracelet’s aesthetic appeal but also its tactile experience. Each link is smooth and rounded on the underside, ensuring that the bracelet rests naturally on the wrist. The Link Bracelet’s design transitions effortlessly between dimly lit offices and sunny outdoor settings, offering both versatility and durability as an accessory for the Apple Watch.

Ergonomics

Despite the watch now being in its tenth iteration, this steel Link Bracelet has a timeless feel that has not drastically changed from the early concept. It’s always been intended as a premium option to pair with Apple’s wearable, and that concept remains intact for someone who desires a well-crafted band that complements the watch’s stainless steel or titanium case. There is a distinctive sense that it was formed in the same industrial design space that gave rise to Apple’s minimal lines and smooth edges. Each link is carefully engineered, with precise tolerances that you can see in the way they lock together. You’d think that would reduce rattling, yet I’ve noticed a slight rattle if I shake the watch vigorously. One quirk I’ve observed is an occasional squeak when operating the clasp, often when the mechanism is dirty or dusty. In daily wear, though, the clasp provides a satisfying click that feels reliable.

I’ve spent extensive time using the Link Bracelet across different Apple Watch generations, as well as exploring metal bands from other luxury brands. It can be tricky for a modern smartwatch brand to pull off a metal bracelet that stands alongside heritage watch brands, but Apple’s design language does a good job of combining sleek modern lines with a feeling of luxury. There is a comfort factor that some folks find contradictory since many assume metal means stiffness or hardness. The interesting truth is that it rests naturally on your wrist once you resize the links correctly. I prefer the 12-o’clock side to be one link longer to accommodate the wristbone, ensuring a more comfortable fit. Each segment has a rounded profile on the underside. Because of that, I have never dealt with sharp edges. The ergonomics are fine, though I do acknowledge the heft could feel heavier on small wrists or if you are used to lighter silicone bands. The big tradeoff is that the increased weight offers a sense of security and polish. It never feels flimsy, so I find it suitable as an all-day band that you could take to dinner or a casual office environment. If I were wearing the watch for a high-intensity workout, I would switch to my rubber Solo Loop, which is still an everyday favorite for sweatier activities, though this stainless steel band can handle moderate activity too.

Performance

The Link Bracelet performs exceptionally well in everyday use, combining style with function. Its weight, while noticeable, contributes to a reassuring sense of durability and luxury. I’ve found the bracelet comfortable during long hours at a desk and equally practical for casual outings. The smooth, rounded links glide effortlessly on the wrist without pinching or pulling hairs—a common issue with cheaper metal bands.

In terms of functionality, the bracelet stays securely in place once sized correctly. I’ve worn it through various activities and never felt it loosen or shift awkwardly. The butterfly clasp operates with satisfying precision, making it easy to put on or remove the band without fuss. The lack of a micro-adjustment option hasn’t been an issue for me, as the links themselves are small enough to provide a near-perfect fit. Once adjusted, the bracelet retains its size, even after multiple detachments and reattachments to the watch.

Durability is another strong point. The brushed stainless steel finish resists everyday scuffs better than mirrored surfaces, and any minor marks can usually be buffed out with a microfiber cloth. I’ve even noticed how well the bracelet adapts to different environments. Indoors, it maintains a subdued elegance, while outdoors, the polished edges catch the light beautifully, adding an extra dimension to its appearance.

For those concerned about the bracelet’s weight, it’s worth noting that while heavier than silicone or nylon bands, the Link Bracelet’s distribution ensures it doesn’t feel cumbersome. Instead, the weight adds a premium feel that’s hard to replicate with lighter materials. Overall, it’s a band that performs as impressively as it looks, making it a worthy addition to the Apple Watch lineup.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a growing factor in our tech choices, and the Link Bracelet demonstrates Apple’s efforts to reduce environmental impact through material selection. Stainless steel, a key component, is fully recyclable, aligning with Apple’s broader goals of using recycled metals across their products. The addition of titanium in the Slate colorway further highlights these efforts.

A metal band like the Link Bracelet, built to last for years, offers a more eco-conscious choice compared to disposable, lower-quality bands. Apple designed this accessory to endure, ensuring it remains compatible with new watch iterations without requiring replacement. This longevity makes it a sustainable alternative to frequently replacing bands with every upgrade cycle.

One could use their Link Bracelet for years, maintaining functionality despite minor patina on the underside—a natural mark of use. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth can restore much of its original shine, reflecting its durability and thoughtful design.

Value

The Link Bracelet’s seamless integration with the Apple Watch is its standout feature. The stainless steel links align perfectly with the watch lugs, creating a cohesive and polished look. Unlike third-party bands that may leave gaps or appear mismatched, this bracelet feels intentionally designed as part of the watch.

In everyday use, the bracelet offers consistent comfort and dependability. The butterfly clasp is discreet and secure, maintaining the minimalist aesthetic while ensuring ease of use. Its brushed finish adds subtle elegance indoors, while polished edges catch the light outdoors, enhancing its refined appearance. Minor scuffs on the brushed steel can be addressed with a quick polish, keeping the bracelet looking sharp.

Apple’s premium pricing reflects the bracelet’s quality and compatibility. It continues to fit new Apple Watch generations, making it a reliable, long-term investment. Available in Natural, Slate, and Gold finishes, the design remains timeless and versatile. For those seeking a band that combines elegance with functionality, the Link Bracelet delivers practicality and style in equal measure.

The post Apple Link Bracelet Review: Timeless Elegance Meets Everyday Durability for Watch 10 Titanium first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Vivo X200 Review: Reliability without Fuss or Fanfare https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/12/21/vivo-x200-review-reliability-without-fuss-or-fanfare/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=vivo-x200-review-reliability-without-fuss-or-fanfare Sat, 21 Dec 2024 23:30:35 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=525850

Vivo X200 Review: Reliability without Fuss or Fanfare

It’s that time of the year when people find themselves scrambling to check shopping and wish lists, trying to figure out the best gifts to...
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PROS:


  • Simple and sleek design with a pleasing camera arrangement

  • Solid hardware performance and excellent battery life

  • Decent triple 50MP camera output

  • 4K HDR video recording on 32MP Front Camera

CONS:


  • No wireless charging

  • A bit pricey with limited availability

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Rather than going for extravagant and experimental changes, the Vivo X200 combines a familiar design with improved performance to offer a solid and reliable smartphone.

It’s that time of the year when people find themselves scrambling to check shopping and wish lists, trying to figure out the best gifts to give others as well as themselves for the upcoming year. It’s a time when people are looking not just for the best products but also for the best value they can get for their money’s worth. That includes the latest gadgets like smartphones that will accompany their new owners to the next year and beyond.

There’s no shortage of designs to choose from in this market, whether in terms of aesthetics, features, or price. Many try to appeal to brand loyalty while others resort to gimmicks and extravagant designs to stand out from the crowd. While this may work for some, not everyone is in the market for a novel smartphone that will end up quickly losing its charm after a few months. In contrast to these, the Vivo X200 looks like a familiar face that is ready to support an old friend, so we take it for a spin to see if it can really deliver that sense of confidence despite its unassuming appearance.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

If you’ve seen the Vivo X100 that was launched late last year, you might feel a sense of deja vu. The Vivo X200 looks almost exactly like its predecessor, though there are definitely some improvements here and there, most of which you won’t be able to immediately notice. That’s not to say that it looks dated, because there are definitely significant changes to the design that prove it’s still a step forward, small as it may be.

The edges, for example, are now flat, matching the current design trends in the smartphone market. The 6.67-inch screen is somewhat flat as well, though the bezels do curve down to the midframe. This is mirrored on the fiberglass back plate whose curve is now less pronounced. In other words, the Vivo X200 exudes a modern and stylish design that keeps in touch with minimalist trends.

The circular camera bump is still large, but that, too, is becoming more common. Large as it may be, it offers not only visual symmetry but also balance that prevents the phone from wobbling on tables. This symmetry is also reflected in the arrangement of the cameras that point in the cardinal directions rather than a square. One of those black circles isn’t a camera, though, but it’s a smart design decision rather than leaving the arrangement a bit odd, literally and figuratively. The metal Sunburst Ring surrounding the camera is still there, along with a knurled surface that gives it the semblance of a luxury watch bezel or a camera lens focus ring.

All in all, the Vivo X200 offers a simple yet stylish design that embodies the strengths of minimalism. There are very few unnecessary details, aside from the ZEISS branding in the center of the cameras and the triple LED flash in the corner. Rather than pushing boundaries and presenting a new but unfamiliar face, it prefers to offer something more recognizable and comforting, bucking the common business sense of changing designs every year.

Ergonomics

In a way, the Vivo X200 seems to combine the best of both design worlds. It has flat edges that some argue give a better grip, but the screen and backplate still curve a bit so they don’t exactly bite into your skin. That said, the matte glass surface of the phone’s back might be tricky for some who find the material slippery, despite the advertised benefits of the artificially crafted texture.

With a weight of around 197g (6.9oz) and an average thickness of 8mm (0.31 in), the phone isn’t exactly the lightest nor the thinnest among this year’s flagships. It isn’t the worst, either, so you’re not exactly taking a loss. It has a nice balance in your hand and feels solid enough to give you confidence when you hold it. It definitely has a premium feel to it that matches its sleek and elegant appearance.

Performance

Unlike some other smartphone brands, Vivo opted to place its bets on MediaTek for its X-series flagships. This particular batch utilizes the new Dimensity 9400 5G, promising a notable jump in performance in gaming and AI. It’s paired with 16GB of RAM, which you can extend up to another 16GB from storage, and 512GB of that fixed storage capacity. In other words, the Vivo X200 is quite the beast, handling any task you throw at it with finesse. Benchmarks put it head-to-head with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, though take it with a grain of salt as that is last year’s Qualcomm flagship.

Thanks to the use of solid-state battery technology, Vivo is able to cram no less than a 5,800mAh battery inside such a compact body. With average use, it can easily last up to two days before needing a charge, and when it comes time to plug it in, just half an hour is enough to get it up to 80% with its 90W charging speed. As great as battery performance sounds, Vivo has chosen to leave out wireless charging yet again, falling behind its peers and rivals in this modern convenience.

The phone’s 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen is very bright and colorful, easily the highlight of the Vivo X200’s face. It has a fast 120Hz refresh rate that makes games responsive and the UI fluid, but it can only switch between 60Hz and 120Hz. It does boast a 2,160Hz PWD dimming that is touted to be as eye-friendly as you can get on screens. There’s really not much else to say about the phone’s display other than how great it looks even under bright outdoor light.

Contrary to what the design suggests, the Vivo X200 only has three cameras, all of them boasting 50MP sensors. This addresses one of the longest-standing problems with smartphone cameras where different lenses produce widely different results. They’re not all the same sensors, of course, but this at least narrows the gap considerably, ensuring that switching between focal lengths is no longer jarring nor disadvantageous. All three also use ZEISS T* coated lenses that reduce lens flares and reflections.

Main, 23mm

Ultra-wide, 15mm

Main, 23mm

Leading the trio is a 50MP Sony IMX921 sensor with an f/1.57 lens and a focal length of 23mm. This wide camera boasts the usual PDAF and OIS features, producing vibrant, detailed, and clear photos under any lighting condition. This is joined by an ultra-wide camera with a 50MP sensor and an f/2.0 aperture lens with a 119-degree field of view. With its highly detailed output and minimal distortion, it’s a welcome break from smartphone cameras that often leave this particular aspect lagging behind.

Main, 2x

Telephoto, 3x

Telephoto, 10x

The third member of the group is a 50MP Sony IMX882 with a f/2.57 aperture lens and a 70mm equivalent focal length. It’s capable of 3x optical zoom, which is quite good in terms of the level of detail, and 10x hybrid zoom which is actually still decent despite the noticeable loss of quality. The camera does seem to have some difficulty with indoor lighting at 3x magnification, leading to blurry and pixelated patches of color.

Telephoto, 3x, Indoor lighting

The really outstanding camera, however, is on the opposite side. In addition to a 32MP sensor, this front-facing ultra-wide camera can record in 4K at 30 or 60fps, which really upgrades the video quality of a camera that’s often overlooked. Not only will it make you look good in video calls, it will also give vloggers and influencers an edge over the competition, presuming their chosen social media platform supports high-quality video in the first place.

Sustainability

As the Vivo X200’s design looks familiar, so is the formula for its parts. In other words, the company hasn’t yet taken any big step forward in using more sustainable materials other than the usual metal or glass you’d find in any other smartphone. Instead, it focuses on making it last a little bit longer, whether because of its durability or its length of support.

More than just the usual IP68 rating, the Vivo X200 also boasts an IP69 certification, which means the phone can be washed with hot water without that much fear, though you’re not advised to do that anyway. The phone also runs FuntouchOS 15 that’s based on Android 15, and it’s promised to receive up to four major OS upgrades, which means you won’t have to worry about being outdated for another four years. With how fast people change their smartphones every two years or how quickly some are obsoleted, these features guarantee a long life for Vivo’s flagship.

Value

There are two ways to stand out in the rat race known as the smartphone market. Either you do something so radical that you turn people’s heads, or you do something so well that people can’t help but take notice. The Vivo X200 is clearly in the latter camp, preferring to prioritize substance over style. Not that it’s lacking style, either, with an elegant minimalist aesthetic that inspires familiarity and confidence, instead of opting for novelty that will quickly wear off.

The Vivo X200 delivers a solid all-rounder device that checks the right boxes without going overboard. The one box it does miss out on is its availability. Although it has recently launched in global markets, its reach is still few and far between. The price tag that goes around $700 to $800 makes it a more difficult choice to make when there are more affordable options available that offer nearly the same capabilities.

Verdict

Smartphones have evolved to become more than just a communication or productivity tool but also a reflection of ourselves. And just as not all of us need fancy designer items or extravagant accessories, not everyone needs a smartphone that screams for attention. Some prefer a minimalist aesthetic that extols the virtues of good design that encompasses color, material, finish, and, most importantly, user experience.

The Vivo X200 is one such design, bearing a simple appearance that belies the power it holds within. It has a well-balanced and solid set of features, empowered by AI, that is ready to handle any task you throw at it. It is by no means unattractive, but it is designed to appeal to people whose tastes go beyond flashy gimmicks and short-lived features. It is, at the end of the day, a reliable companion on life’s adventures.

The post Vivo X200 Review: Reliability without Fuss or Fanfare first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 Review: Transforming Everyday Listening with Superior Audio and Seamless Communication https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/12/20/huawei-freebuds-pro-4-review-transforming-everyday-listening-with-superior-audio-and-seamless-communication/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=huawei-freebuds-pro-4-review-transforming-everyday-listening-with-superior-audio-and-seamless-communication Fri, 20 Dec 2024 23:30:47 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=525736

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 Review: Transforming Everyday Listening with Superior Audio and Seamless Communication

Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 4 aims to redefine the way we experience wireless audio, blending cutting-edge technology with thoughtful design. As the latest addition to the...
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Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 4 aims to redefine the way we experience wireless audio, blending cutting-edge technology with thoughtful design. As the latest addition to the company’s flagship lineup, these earbuds promise high-resolution sound, exceptional call quality, and intuitive features designed for real-world use. From tackling noisy environments during calls to delivering an immersive music experience with tailored EQ settings, the FreeBuds Pro 4 seems ready to take on the challenges of everyday life. Let’s dive into how they perform.

PROS:


  • Bone-Conduction Technology for Outstanding Call Quality

  • Dual-Driver True Sound System for Immersive Audio

  • Effective Noise Control Modes

  • Memory Foam Tips for Comfort and Noise Isolation

  • Dual-Device Connection for Multi-Tasking


CONS:


  • Battery Life with All Features Enabled

  • Limited Customization Options for EQ


RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

FreeBuds Pro 4 redefines clarity and comfort—perfect for immersive listening and crystal-clear calls in any environment.
award-icon

Designer: Huawei

Design and Aesthetics

Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 4 comes into a world already saturated by wireless earbuds that promise comfort, clarity, and a stylish form. The design language of these Huawei earbuds should not be ignored, especially considering how many brands forget that we wear these devices as part of our personal style. This isn’t a gaudy attempt at jewelry. Instead, its understated style enhances its appeal, allowing it to complement a wide range of personal aesthetics while remaining functional. The minimalist design ensures that the earbuds feel professional for work calls yet casual enough for everyday use, making them versatile for any scenario.

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4

The FreeBuds Pro 4 comes across more like a finely tuned instrument. The materials and finishing radiate a subtle sense of care rather than flamboyance. They feel confident in their presence. While certain earlier earbud models from various brands have been plagued by slippery finishes or cheap-feeling plastic, Huawei took time to produce something that can actually withstand everyday handling without showing scratches the moment you toss them into a bag. I respect that.

The subtle branding and finishing details don’t scream for attention, but if you pay attention, you notice the layers of careful craftsmanship. These are refined enough that you can hold them and sense the design decisions that Huawei made. They are small objects that serve multiple roles in a modern lifestyle. Whether it’s transitioning seamlessly from a high-stakes business call to an evening of relaxing music, these earbuds adapt effortlessly. They feel purposeful, combining functional elegance with durability—offering a sense of reliability that makes you proud to use them daily, not as just another disposable gadget.

Ergonomics

The fit inside my ears is stable and comfortable, thoughtfully crafted to accommodate a wide range of ear shapes. I wore them for hours on end during my flight from Dubai to Dallas, and they remained incredibly comfortable—a testament to Huawei’s ergonomic design. The memory foam ear tips adapt naturally to the ear canal, creating a secure yet unobtrusive seal that minimizes sound leakage while enhancing comfort. This seal plays a vital role in reducing ambient noise, allowing me to immerse myself in music or focus on work without interruption.

One of the FreeBuds Pro 4’s most impressive aspects is its lightweight construction. Even after prolonged use, I didn’t feel any strain or pressure on my ears, a crucial feature for long-haul travelers or those wearing them throughout the day. The thoughtful balance of form and function ensures these earbuds feel natural as an extension of your daily routine.

The design also fosters a sense of acoustic balance. Whether I was navigating through a bustling airport terminal or seated in a noisy cabin, the FreeBuds Pro 4 delivered a consistent sense of calm. The combination of comfort, practicality, and noise isolation creates an experience that feels uniquely tailored to real-world challenges, making these earbuds more than just another gadget in your bag.

Performance

The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 offers a variety of noise control modes that adapt to your environment and personal preferences, enhancing the overall listening experience. The Noise Canceling mode, set to “Ultra,” excels in eliminating background distractions such as bustling terminals or airplane cabins. During my flight from Dubai to Dallas, switching to this mode drowned out the low rumble of the engines and even softened the sharp cries of a nearby baby, making it far easier to focus on music or relax.

The Awareness mode is equally practical for situations where you need to stay alert. While waiting for boarding announcements at the airport, I switched to this mode and appreciated how it amplified surrounding sounds just enough to keep me connected to my environment without removing the clarity of my audio.

For moments when no active noise cancellation is needed, the Off mode provides a more neutral experience, preserving battery life while still offering the same high-quality audio playback. These modes illustrate Huawei’s thoughtful approach to real-world usability. Moving seamlessly between a quiet office, a busy public space, or even transitioning from one to the other, the earbuds adapt without skipping a beat.

What I love most about these transitions is the audible notification that accompanies each mode switch. It’s a simple yet thoughtful addition that ensures I know exactly which setting I’ve selected without needing to glance at the app. This level of intuitive design is rare and makes a noticeable difference in seamless usability.

Through its high-end specifications, the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 offers a refined listening experience. At the heart of its design is the Dual-driver True Sound system combined with retuned Digital Cross-Over technology. This configuration allows precise handling of individual frequency ranges, offering clarity and depth for every track. Supporting this is the powerful 11mm Quad-Magnet Dynamic Driver Unit, ensuring rich and distortion-free sound across different genres.

To enhance the audio quality further, Huawei’s proprietary Bluetooth L2HC 4.0 codec enables high-resolution audio transmission at up to 24-bit/48kHz with an impressive 2.3 Mbps speed. These features ensure that music playback remains immersive and true to its original quality, from soft instrumentals to dynamic, bass-heavy tracks.

Using the EQ presets provided in the app, I tested various music genres that align with my preferences.

  • Bass Boost: I turned on “Bass Boost” for tracks like Dua Lipa’s Don’t Start Now and Calvin Harris’s Slide. The low-end frequencies gained a deep, rich punch without overpowering the vocals or the treble. The bass remains tight and controlled, adding energy to upbeat tracks.
  • Treble Boost: For acoustic recordings, I switched to “Treble Boost” while listening to John Mayer’s Neon and Fleetwood Mac’s Landslide. The clarity of the plucked strings came through vividly, giving these tracks a lifelike quality that felt intimate and warm.
  • Voices: For podcasts and vocal-heavy tracks like Adele’s Hello or Sam Smith’s Stay With Me, the “Voices” setting isolated the mids perfectly, making every word and note resonate with clarity. Even during noisy environments, the emphasis on vocal frequencies ensured nothing got lost.
  • Hi-Fi Live: Playing Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody in “Hi-Fi Live” mode captured the dynamic shifts in the song beautifully. The balance between the intricate layering of vocals and instruments felt almost like being present at a live performance.
  • Classical: While listening to Yo-Yo Ma’s performance of Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1, the “Classical” preset highlighted the warmth and depth of the cello, enhancing every bow stroke’s detail and emotion.

Sitting next to a screaming infant on an airplane prior to takeoff, I placed a call to a colleague. The sharp, piercing cries of the baby, alternating between high-pitched wails and desperate sobs, created an environment that felt chaotic and overwhelming. The FreeBuds Pro 4, equipped with advanced bone-conduction VPU microphone technology and an AI noise reduction algorithm, dulled the high-pitched wails to a manageable hum. This ensured my conversation remained uninterrupted. On the other end of the line, my colleague heard my voice with alarming clarity, reporting that the background noise was virtually eliminated. Even in a breezy outdoor space, the wind did not translate into overwhelming mic distortion. Thanks to this technology, the other side of the line received a well-isolated version of my voice. Meetings, calls, and interviews can proceed naturally, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Each preset feels tailored to amplify the strengths of specific genres without resorting to over-processing. The Dual-driver True Sound system works with the Digital Cross-Over technology to provide a clean, distortion-free experience. When playing back lossless audio files at 24-bit/48kHz, as in Fleet Foxes’ Helplessness Blues, the earbuds reveal an extra layer of tonal richness that’s absent in most competing earbuds.

The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 pushes a real sense of precision in their sound. I know these are not pro-audio-grade studio monitors, but they do not need to be. Instead, they strike a healthy balance between detail and warmth.

Value and Conclusion

In my ongoing evaluation of audio gear, I place a heavy emphasis on how something works in daily life. Specs, brand names, and press releases can only tell a fraction of the story. The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 shows the company understands what it means to integrate seamlessly into a user’s world. For example, when moving from a video call on my laptop to playing music on my phone, the Dual Device Connection feature ensures a smooth transition without the need for manual pairing. This functionality, combined with wear detection that pauses and resumes audio automatically, makes the earbuds feel intuitive and effortless to use.

The clarity of call quality, the stable performance in streaming high-fidelity audio, and the robust battery life stand out more strongly than any marketing buzz. The brand’s focus on noise cancellation that actually works in varied environments shows care and attention to real-world challenges. The comfort of memory foam ear tips that reduce sound leakage stands out as well. This new Huawei model demonstrates that the company took real-world obstacles into account, from wind noise to inconsistent network conditions.

The underlying message from Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 4 is that refinement and practicality don’t have to sit on opposite ends of the spectrum. High-resolution audio retains its crispness without compromising stable connectivity. The design combines comfort with individuality, avoiding the generic aesthetic that fades into the background. Noise cancellation handles unpredictable environments effectively, not limiting itself to quiet offices. Smart features are thoughtfully implemented to enhance workflows without coming across as gimmicks.

All these elements come together in these earbuds and reflect an approach that respects the user’s real-world context. After thorough use, I am impressed with how consistently well these earbuds handle everyday challenges. The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 is far more than a spec sheet or a flashy launch event. They’re a step toward making wireless earbuds fit into our lives as effortlessly as possible, blending balanced sound reproduction, stable calls, and comfortable ergonomics in a way that rewards those who actually pay attention to what matters.

The post Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 Review: Transforming Everyday Listening with Superior Audio and Seamless Communication first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Huawei Nova 13 Pro Review: Stunning Design and Powerful Features at a Mid-Range Price https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/12/19/huawei-nova-13-pro-review-stunning-design-and-powerful-features-at-a-mid-range-price/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=huawei-nova-13-pro-review-stunning-design-and-powerful-features-at-a-mid-range-price Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:30:43 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=525541

Huawei Nova 13 Pro Review: Stunning Design and Powerful Features at a Mid-Range Price

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro represents a remarkable advancement in smartphone design, seamlessly blending affordability with a sense of premium innovation. Its striking design immediately...
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The Huawei Nova 13 Pro represents a remarkable advancement in smartphone design, seamlessly blending affordability with a sense of premium innovation. Its striking design immediately grabs attention, while the exceptional camera system and vibrant display create an experience that feels tailored for those who demand more from their devices. This phone reimagines what a mid-tier device can deliver, blending innovative features with thoughtful design. Yet, some user feedback suggests that certain design decisions may feel more polarizing than cohesive, indicating that preferences can differ widely.

PROS:


  • Impressive design with premium materials and unique textures.

  • Reliable performance with Huawei’s chipset and 12GB RAM.

  • Vibrant LTPO OLED display with adaptive refresh rate and HDR support.

  • Advanced camera system with variable aperture and multiple lens options.

  • Fast 100W charging and practical reverse wired charging.

CONS:


  • Design elements could be polarizing, particularly the front camera cutout and rear camera bump.

  • Absence of Google services, which may deter some users.

  • Lack of tri-band Wi-Fi support for advanced connectivity needs.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro strikes an impressive balance between premium design and cutting-edge features, offering a mid-range device that feels anything but ordinary.

award-icon

Designer: Huawei

Design and Aesthetics

Huawei has struck a balance with the Nova 13 Pro, pairing sleek design with practical functionality to enhance everyday use. Measuring 163.4 x 74.9 x 7.8 mm and weighing 209 grams, the device features a glass front and either a glass or eco-leather back, depending on the variant. It’s available in four elegant colors: Black, White, Purple, and Loden Green, the series’ signature color.

On the back, Huawei’s signature interwoven pattern—crafted with micro-nano 3D lithography and micro-crystal feather yarn technology—adds visual depth and practicality by being stain-resistant, scratch-resistant, and skin-friendly. The elongated camera bump houses four lens openings arranged in a square configuration, accompanied by two LED flash sensors. Meanwhile, the pill-shaped cutout on the front accommodates two selfie cameras, a design choice that enhances portrait capabilities while maintaining a sleek appearance. Still, some users have criticized the front camera layout as less appealing than a simpler punch-hole approach, while others find the camera bump design childish rather than elegant, highlighting how taste can vary significantly depending on the individual.

Ergonomics

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro features a thoughtful ergonomic design, combining form and function to create a device that’s as comfortable to hold as it is visually appealing. The gently curved edges and perfectly balanced weight distribution make it feel natural in hand, allowing for comfortable one-handed use despite its large 6.76-inch display.

The quad-curved micro OLED screen melts into the frame, creating an almost borderless viewing experience that’s both immersive and ergonomic. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsiveness, while the 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming reduces eye strain during extended use.

Huawei’s interwoven pattern on the back panel, crafted using micro-nano 3D lithography and micro-crystal feather yarn technology, enhances grip while offering a unique texture and aesthetic. The elongated camera module, with its square lens arrangement and slim profile, ensures the phone remains stable on flat surfaces while maintaining sleek handling. The under-display fingerprint sensor is perfectly positioned for intuitive access, allowing for seamless unlocking without disrupting the phone’s clean lines. Combined with the IP65 rating for dust and splash resistance, the Nova 13 Pro is designed to withstand daily use while preserving its ergonomic integrity. Even so, user reactions to the overall design language remain mixed, with some praising the artistry while others urge Huawei and the Nova 13 Pro to adopt a more universally appealing aesthetic.

Performance

At the heart of the Nova 13 Pro lies Huawei’s Kirin 8000 chipset, supported by 12GB of RAM and storage options up to 1TB. This combination ensures smooth multitasking, swift app launches, and reliable performance for most modern tasks. HarmonyOS 4.2 offers a clean and intuitive user experience bolstered by Huawei’s ecosystem integrations.

During my review of the Huawei Nova 13 Pro, the device consistently delivered impressive performance across a variety of demanding scenarios. The Kirin 8000 chipset, coupled with 12GB of RAM, proved more than capable of handling intensive multitasking and resource-heavy applications with ease. From editing high-resolution photos to playing graphic-intensive games and handling demanding applications with ease, the Nova 13 Pro exhibited no noticeable lag or slowdowns. HarmonyOS 4.2 further enhanced the experience, providing intuitive navigation, swift app switching, and fluid animations. These features ensured that whether I was managing multiple productivity tools or enjoying entertainment apps, the Nova 13 Pro maintained its responsiveness and reliability, offering a seamless user experience that aligns with its premium design. The performance aligns well with the phone’s premium design, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable user experience.

Display

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro’s display is a centerpiece of its design, offering vibrant visuals and exceptional adaptability for various uses. The 6.76-inch LTPO OLED panel features a resolution of 2776 x 1224 pixels (449 ppi density) and employs quad-curved micro OLED technology, creating an immersive, borderless viewing experience. Supporting 1 billion colors, HDR, and an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, the display ensures lifelike color reproduction and seamless transitions. Moreover, the integration of 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming reduces eye strain, making it ideal for extended use.

For gamers, the 120Hz refresh rate brings fluidity to fast-paced action, particularly in titles like racing games and first-person shooters. The reduced input lag, measuring as low as 8.33 milliseconds, ensures precise responsiveness during gameplay, while the elimination of screen tearing enhances immersion. These refinements offer players an edge and elevate the overall gaming experience.

Streaming enthusiasts will appreciate how the Nova 13 Pro handles high-speed visuals, like watching Formula 1 races. As the cars fly by, the display captures every detail with sharpness and precision, ensuring fast-moving scenes remain vivid and lifelike. The HDR support enhances contrast and vibrancy, making the colors of the cars and tracks pop. Combined with 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming, the screen minimizes eye strain, allowing users to enjoy extended viewing sessions comfortably.

Balancing performance with comfort, the Nova 13 Pro’s display offers a polished visual experience that resonates with a diverse audience, including gamers, binge-watchers, and everyday users. However, some remain unconvinced that the phone’s unique front camera placement is a worthy trade-off for these display benefits, reflecting how design choices can influence user satisfaction.

Cameras

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro’s camera system rivals many flagship devices, delivering an exceptional photographic experience that redefines expectations in the mid-tier segment. The rear camera system features a 50MP wide-angle sensor as its centerpiece, integrating RYYB technology to enhance light intake by 40% compared to conventional sensors. The variable aperture, ranging from f/1.4 to f/4.0, is a key feature that enhances the Nova 13 Pro’s photographic capabilities across various lighting conditions. At f/1.4, the lens excels in low-light environments by capturing sharp, low-noise images with detailed precision while creating a pleasing background blur for artistic compositions. Narrowing the aperture to f/4.0 provides greater depth of field, making it particularly effective for landscapes and group shots where clarity across the frame is essential.

This advanced system adapts seamlessly to challenging lighting conditions but also offers photographers precise control through both manual and automatic adjustments. In Pro mode, users can fine-tune the aperture to craft images with greater creative intent, while the automatic optimization ensures consistent performance without requiring technical expertise. By seamlessly integrating these capabilities, the variable aperture delivers a versatile and dynamic photography experience that meets the demands of both casual and advanced users.

Accompanying the main sensor is a 12MP telephoto lens equipped with 3x optical zoom. This camera does a great job at capturing distant subjects with clarity, aided by OIS to reduce blur and PDAF for precise focusing. While details at extreme zoom ranges can soften, the telephoto lens delivers reliable performance for portraits and medium-range photography.

The 8MP ultrawide lens brings creativity into the mix with its expansive 112-degree field of view. Ideal for dynamic landscapes and group shots, it also includes autofocus capability—a feature rarely seen in mid-tier competitors—making it suitable for macro photography as well. However, some edge softening may occur at the widest angles, a minor trade-off for its versatility.

On the front, the dual selfie cameras enhance the Nova 13 Pro to a league of its own. The 60MP ultrawide sensor captures exceptional detail, ensuring selfies highlight both the subject and surroundings with clarity. Complementing this is an 8MP telephoto lens offering 2x optical zoom, a rarity for front-facing cameras, which adds depth and flexibility to self-portraits and video calls.

The camera performance is further amplified by AI-driven features such as gyro-EIS and Huawei’s advanced computational photography algorithms. These technologies stabilize video recording, optimize color accuracy, and refine detail across various shooting conditions. The Nova 13 Pro’s camera system balances professional-level control with approachable, user-friendly functionality, making it one of the device’s most impressive features. Still, some users question the necessity of such a high-resolution front camera or the inclusion of a telephoto option for selfies, viewing these as more of a novelty than a practical enhancement.

Battery and Charging

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro is equipped with a robust 5000mAh battery designed to keep pace with modern lifestyles. The inclusion of 100W SuperCharge Turbo technology ensures rapid recharging, taking the device from 3% to 50% in a mere nine minutes—perfect for those busy moments when you need to get back on the go quickly. This feature reduces downtime significantly, making it ideal for both professionals and casual users who rely heavily on their devices.

Moreover, the phone supports reverse wired charging, an often-overlooked but highly practical feature. For example, it can be used to top up your wireless earbuds or assist a friend in need of extra power; this functionality adds an element of convenience and flexibility to everyday use. Combined, these charging features make the Nova 13 Pro reliable and adaptable to various power needs. Despite these positives, app availability and the absence of Google services due to ongoing U.S. sanctions may influence the decision-making process for some buyers. However, the robust HarmonyOS ecosystem and Huawei’s app alternatives offer a viable solution for users who prioritize the device’s strengths.

Value and Conclusion

The Huawei Nova 13 series delivers a compelling package that combines sophisticated design, advanced technology, and fair pricing for what it offers. The Nova 13 is priced at $596, offering 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, while the Nova 13 Pro comes in at $758 with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. This clear distinction in price reflects the additional features and storage capabilities of the Pro variant, catering to different user needs.

The Nova 13 Pro’s refined aesthetics, dependable performance, and versatile camera system ensure it meets the expectations of a broad range of users. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who values premium design, the Pro model strikes a thoughtful balance between style and functionality.

Meanwhile, the Nova 13 standard model offers a more accessible price point while retaining key features such as the sleek textured design and a capable camera system, making it an excellent option for those looking for value without compromise.

Both models deliver vibrant displays, advanced cameras, and reliable battery life, making the Nova 13 series a strong contender for users seeking quality at mid-range pricing. Huawei has managed to create devices that not only cater to various needs but also make premium features more accessible. Still, given the mixed reception of certain design elements and the ongoing ecosystem, there is room for refinement. Focusing on universally appealing aesthetics and expanding app compatibility could strengthen the Nova 13 Pro’s position in the mid-range market. The Nova 13 Pro remains an intriguing choice for many, yet it shows that user preferences can vary widely and that what appeals to one set of buyers may not resonate as strongly with another.

The post Huawei Nova 13 Pro Review: Stunning Design and Powerful Features at a Mid-Range Price first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Huawei Mate X6 Review: A Foldable Experience Redefining Versatility and Innovation https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/12/12/huawei-mate-x6-review-a-foldable-experience-redefining-versatility-and-innovation/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=huawei-mate-x6-review-a-foldable-experience-redefining-versatility-and-innovation Thu, 12 Dec 2024 16:05:09 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=524386

Huawei Mate X6 Review: A Foldable Experience Redefining Versatility and Innovation

Reviewing the Huawei Mate X6, I tested it across two vastly different parts of the world—the rainy, overcast streets of Chongqing, China, and the sandy,...
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Reviewing the Huawei Mate X6, I tested it across two vastly different parts of the world—the rainy, overcast streets of Chongqing, China, and the sandy, sun-drenched deserts of Dubai. These locations were chosen for their distinct conditions to highlight the phone’s adaptability. Chongqing’s humid and misty climate provided a test for its water resistance and display clarity in low-light, wet conditions, while Dubai’s intense heat and bright sunlight put its durability and screen brightness to the test. Each setting showcased the Mate X6’s ability to thrive in dynamic and challenging environments, emphasizing its design and engineering strengths. This foldable represents Huawei’s vision of a flagship device, setting new standards in design and functionality. Weighing 239 grams and measuring 9.85mm when folded and an ultra-slim 4.6mm when unfolded, the Mate X6 is impressively compact yet robust, making it a device that seamlessly transitions between portability and power.

PROS:


  • Exceptional Camera System: The Ultra Aperture XMAGE Camera and Ultra Chroma Camera deliver stunning results across various environments, excelling in low-light, macro, and high-zoom scenarios.

  • Innovative Hinge Design: The rocket-grade steel waterdrop hinge ensures minimal creasing and long-term reliability while enhancing usability and aesthetics.

  • Durable Build: Incorporates basalt body architecture, Kunlun Glass 2nd Generation, and an aviation-grade aluminum frame, making it robust and scratch-resistant for everyday use.

  • Immersive Display Quality: The external display's peak brightness reaches 2500 nits, and the internal display's is 1800 nits. Paired with X-True Display technology, the screens remain vibrant and clear in challenging conditions like bright sunlight or low light.

  • Refined Ergonomics: At 239 grams and just 4.6mm thick when unfolded, it balances portability with usability, providing a comfortable and seamless user experience.

CONS:


  • Limited Availability: The Mate X6’s market availability remains unconfirmed, which could limit accessibility for potential buyers.

  • High Price: Foldable smartphones, including the Mate X6, typically come with a premium price tag, potentially deterring budget-conscious buyers.

  • Bulk in Folded State: Despite its sleek unfolded design, the Mate X6 may feel slightly bulky when folded for users who prioritize compact devices.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Huawei Mate X6 redefines the foldable experience, blending stunning design, unmatched durability, and cutting-edge photography capabilities. From the dynamic streets of Chongqing to the deserts of Dubai, it excels in every scenario, proving itself as the ultimate foldable companion.
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Designer: Huawei

Huawei’s journey in foldable innovation began in 2019 with the debut of the Mate X, a groundbreaking device unveiled at the Mobile World Congress. The Mate X6 represents five years of relentless refinement and innovation, establishing itself as a leader in foldable technology. With its Space-Age Orbit design and Nebula Texture craftsmanship, the Mate X6 combines elegance with practicality. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this device so remarkable.

Design and Aesthetics

Huawei’s use of basalt body architecture enhances the phone’s durability while maintaining a lightweight feel. This material was chosen for its balance of strength and portability, providing resilience without adding unnecessary bulk. Its performance stood out during my use, withstanding the abrasions of sandy conditions in Dubai and proving itself as a durable yet refined choice for a flagship foldable. This was particularly evident in Dubai’s harsh desert conditions, where the phone endured sandy environments without visible wear or impact on performance. This innovative material ensures the Mate X6 remains strong enough to handle everyday wear and tear without compromising portability. Coupled with second-generation Kunlun Glass, the device’s scratch resistance is top-tier, giving users confidence in its resilience.

The rear finish uses Micro-Nano 3D Topography, offering a tactile experience highlighting the phone’s radiant glow. As light moves across the surface, the Mate X6 transforms in appearance, revealing an elegance that shifts with the angle of view. Every detail reflects meticulous craftsmanship, from the smooth vegan leather to the sharp, diamond-cut edges of the camera housing.

In hand, the Mate X6 feels refined and substantial, with its smooth finishes enhancing its ergonomic design. The curved edges of the finish offer a secure and natural grip during extended use, ensuring comfort and practicality. This combination of form and function underscores Huawei’s attention to user experience without compromising style. For a device of its size, the Mate X6 strikes an impressive balance, feeling neither bulky nor overly delicate but perfectly suited for everyday interactions. Personally, I found myself torn between the Nebula Texture finish and the Nebula Red. Each finish offers a distinct appeal for different user preferences. With its glimmering subtlety, the Nebula Texture exudes a refined elegance, perfect for those who appreciate understated sophistication.

On the other hand, the Nebula Red commands attention with its bold vibrancy, catering to those who love a striking and daring aesthetic. Both are striking in looks and texture, each with its unique character. What’s your pick? Huawei has designed a foldable that seamlessly combines aesthetics and performance, ensuring there’s a choice for everyone.

Ergonomics

Foldable smartphones often face challenges in balancing usability and form factor, but the Mate X6 delivers a surprisingly ergonomic experience. Its lightweight design, at just 239 grams, makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods, whether folded or unfolded. When unfolded, it feels amazing in hand—neither bulky nor unwieldy. The ultra-slim 4.6mm thickness provides a natural grip that complements the expansiveness of the display, making every interaction feel seamless. Meanwhile, the 9.85mm thickness in the folded state feels solid and secure, striking the right balance between portability and functionality.

During my use, the Mate X6 proved practical for one-handed operation, particularly when folded, making it more accessible compared to other foldables on the market. Navigating apps, typing messages, or even taking quick snapshots felt intuitive and seamless, a feat many foldables struggle to achieve in their folded state. The device’s balanced weight distribution made it comfortable for extended periods without feeling cumbersome.

The hinge mechanism also contributes to the phone’s overall ergonomics. It locks into place firmly, providing a stable screen that doesn’t wobble or shift during use. This is especially valuable when using the device in Flex-stop mode for tasks like video calls or split-screen multitasking. Huawei has considered the user experience and designed a foldable that prioritizes functionality and comfort.

I also found the unfolded Mate X6 particularly useful for capturing content without needing a tripod. Whether placed on a table or propped up against a stable surface, the device’s hinge and large display provided the perfect setup for shooting videos or stills hands-free. This feature came in handy during my testing, especially when creating time-lapses or documenting moments in a bustling café or scenic location.

Performance

Performance is critical to any flagship smartphone, and the Mate X6 doesn’t disappoint. This foldable device is designed to handle everything from multitasking to gaming and intensive photography to demanding video recording. In this section, I’ll explain how the Mate X6 excels in real-world scenarios, demonstrating its ability to deliver a seamless, responsive, and powerful experience across various use cases.

Hinges

The hinge is the backbone of any foldable smartphone, and Huawei has engineered one that stands out. Unlike many competing foldable, the Mate X6 features a waterdrop hinge crafted from innovative rocket-grade steel, effectively minimizing the crease and ensuring a smooth, uninterrupted display. This hinge enhances the phone’s aesthetics and reinforces its reliability and durability, making it feel robust through countless folds. Compared to other leading foldable, the Mate X6’s hinge offers superior stability. It contributes to its IPX8 water resistance, providing users with confidence in varied environments, whether during daily use or unforeseen conditions. The waterdrop hinge, built with innovative rocket-grade steel, eliminates the common crease found in many foldables. This ensures that the screen remains smooth and visually seamless, an essential feature for anyone prioritizing functionality and aesthetics.

Reliability is a hallmark of this hinge design. It holds the display firmly in place, whether you’re folding or unfolding, and maintains its integrity through repeated use. The solid construction not only instills confidence but also ensures the Mate X6 can withstand the demands of everyday use without compromising its performance.

The hinge also plays a vital role in the Mate X6’s IPX8 water resistance rating. This means the device is durable and can handle challenging environments, from unexpected rain to accidental splashes. Its precision engineering ensures that the display transitions effortlessly between folded and unfolded states, delivering a smooth user experience every time.

By addressing key concerns like durability, crease elimination, and long-term reliability, Huawei’s hinge design cements the Mate X6 as a foldable smartphone you can rely on for years to come. The hinge highlights Huawei’s engineering precision and long-term reliability, emphasizing the innovation and solid construction that make this flagship device dependable.

Camera Quality

Main Camera Performance

During my time with the Huawei Mate X6, I tested its Ultra Aperture XMAGE Camera system across dramatically different settings—the wet, neon-lit streets of Chongqing, China, and the golden, sandy expanses of Dubai. These contrasting environments not only highlighted the camera’s versatility but also influenced my overall impression of its capabilities. The neon reflections in Chongqing and the sharp contrasts of Dubai’s sunlight brought out the strengths of each lens, reinforcing how adaptable and reliable the Mate X6 is for diverse photographic scenarios.

In Chongqing, the overcast skies and persistent rain provided the perfect backdrop to test the 50 MP main camera. With its variable aperture ranging from f/1.4 to f/4.0, I was able to capture stunning low-light shots of the city’s neon-lit streets. The wide aperture worked exceptionally well to pull in as much light as possible, preserving intricate details and enhancing contrast. Raindrops glistening on windows and the subtle reflections on wet pavement were rendered with impressive clarity, thanks to the XMAGE’s AI-driven enhancements.

Ultra-Wide and Telephoto Lenses

The 40 MP ultra-wide lens shone in capturing Chongqing’s dense urban landscapes. The sprawling views of towering buildings, interconnected by winding bridges, were sharp and distortion-free. Even in challenging lighting, this lens brought out rich details across the frame, making it an ideal choice for capturing the city’s unique character.

Shifting to Dubai, the Mate X6 faced a new test: bright, sunlit desert vistas and the golden glow of the city’s skyline. The 48 MP telephoto lens excelled here, enabling me to zoom in on architectural landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab with remarkable sharpness. Its optical image stabilization ensured crisp shots even when using high zoom levels to capture distant subjects. The 4x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom allowed me to experiment with composition, bringing distant details into focus without losing quality.

Macro and Night Photography

Macro photography became a surprising highlight. The telephoto macro camera, capable of focusing as close as 2.5 cm, unveiled intricate textures on objects from a museum during my explorations in Chongqing. Similarly, in the Dubai desert, it captured the intricate grains of sand on artifacts displayed during a cultural dinner, showcasing the camera’s ability to render both natural and man-made details with striking accuracy. For hobbyists and professionals alike, this lens transforms mundane objects into fascinating works of art, revealing details that might otherwise go unnoticed. From the intricate veins of a leaf to the delicate structure of a flower petal, the Mate X6’s macro capabilities encourage creativity and curiosity, making it a delight for anyone who loves to explore the finer details of the world around them. This lens transformed everyday objects into works of art, capturing fine details that were otherwise invisible to the naked eye.

Night photography further highlighted the phone’s versatility. Using Pro Mode and Aperture Priority Mode, I opened the aperture to f/1.4, allowing the camera to maximize light intake and capture the illuminated skyline of Dubai against the pitch-black desert. AI enhancements effectively reduced noise and ensured that the city lights appeared vibrant without overexposure, delivering sharp and stunning results.

This shot demonstrates the Mate X6’s remarkable ability to balance light and shadow in extreme low-light conditions, leveraging its advanced AI algorithms to intelligently adjust settings and minimize noise. The result is a natural yet striking composition, highlighting both the subtle shadows and illuminated details. Taken during a dinner in the desert of Dubai, the photo captures a scene bathed only in moonlight and scattered artificial lighting. The stars in the sky remain clear and distinct, while the warmth of the heaters, glowing lanterns, and texture of the sandy surroundings are rendered with impressive detail. Even the palm trees and distant dune contours are visible, showcasing the dynamic range and precision of the Mate X6’s Night Mode.

The combination of the Ultra Aperture Camera and advanced AI truly comes alive in settings like this. Whether photographing the serenity of a quiet desert evening or the vibrant energy of a city skyline, the Mate X6 excels in preserving both atmosphere and detail, elevating low-light photography to an entirely new level.

Selfies and AI Integration

The dual 8 MP selfie cameras added convenience during this journey. Whether snapping portraits amidst the bustling streets of Chongqing or capturing the grandeur of Dubai from a high vantage point, the results were consistently sharp and well-lit. AI-assisted skin tone adjustments and lighting enhancements ensured flattering and natural-looking photos, regardless of the setting.

AI-driven enhancements across all lenses elevated the Mate X6’s photography capabilities in every scenario. The software intelligently optimized settings based on the environment, ensuring vibrant colors, balanced exposures, and minimal noise. From intricate cityscapes to expansive desert panoramas, the Mate X6 proved itself a comprehensive toolkit for casual and professional photographers alike.

Durable Design Meets Seamless Performance

Beyond its durability and design, the Mate X6 excels in providing a seamless and reliable screen experience. The innovative heat dissipation system, leveraging ultra-high thermal conductivity graphene, ensures the device remains cool even during intensive use. For instance, while gaming for extended periods or recording 4K videos under Dubai’s relentless desert heat, the Mate X6 maintained a steady temperature, avoiding any discomfort. This practical feature ensures users can engage in demanding tasks without interruptions caused by overheating, allowing for an uninterrupted and enjoyable experience. Whether multitasking with Live Multi-Task mode, gaming, or video calling, the Mate X6 consistently delivered smooth performance.

The Mate X6 also excels in connectivity. Thanks to its advanced distributed architecture, the device offers improved signal perception, whether folded or unfolded. I tested this in areas notorious for poor connectivity, such as underground garages and high-speed trains, and the Mate X6 maintained a stable connection where other devices faltered. This level of reliability underscores its value for users who depend on consistent performance in challenging environments.

Huawei’s second-generation Kunlun Glass elevates durability by offering 25 times greater drop resistance than its predecessor. While I refrained from replicating Huawei’s suggested drop test for obvious reasons, the phone handled real-world scenarios admirably. From slips off a sofa to accidental bumps during photography sessions, the Mate X6 proved its resilience without compromising functionality or aesthetics. This robust build provided confidence throughout my travels, ensuring peace of mind in varied environments.

The Mate X6’s display stood out as a highlight. Its 1800 nits of peak brightness delivered crystal-clear visibility in all conditions, from the misty rain of Chongqing to Dubai’s blazing sunlight. Whether framing a photo or catching up on messages, the display remained sharp and vibrant. Huawei’s meticulous attention to materials and engineering reinforces the Mate X6 as a flagship device with a screen experience that complements its groundbreaking design.

Value and Conclusion

The Huawei Mate X6 redefines foldable smartphone expectations with its innovative features and polished user experience. Integrating advancements like a refined hinge mechanism and enhanced camera capabilities delivers a uniquely versatile device that addresses the demands of everyday users and technology enthusiasts. Its impeccable design, advanced materials, and versatile camera system make it a striking device for those seeking style and substance. Features like the variable aperture, waterdrop hinge, and basalt body architecture demonstrate Huawei’s ability to push the boundaries of innovation.

Considering everything, I can’t help but be extremely pleased with the Mate X6. It ticks nearly all the boxes and exceeds my expectations, which is why I’m awarding it the Yanko Design Editor Choice.

The post Huawei Mate X6 Review: A Foldable Experience Redefining Versatility and Innovation first appeared on Yanko Design.

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SIHOO DORO C300 PRO REVIEW: HIGH-END Office and gaming chair at An Affordable Price https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/11/27/sihoo-doro-c300-pro-review-high-end-features-at-a-budget-price-office-and-gaming-chair-comfort/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sihoo-doro-c300-pro-review-high-end-features-at-a-budget-price-office-and-gaming-chair-comfort Thu, 28 Nov 2024 02:45:46 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=521355

SIHOO DORO C300 PRO REVIEW: HIGH-END Office and gaming chair at An Affordable Price

After spending several weeks with the Sihoo Doro C300 Pro, I confidently conclude it strikes a careful balance between comfort, adaptability, and sleek design. The...
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After spending several weeks with the Sihoo Doro C300 Pro, I confidently conclude it strikes a careful balance between comfort, adaptability, and sleek design. The C300 Pro has been designed to fill your home office – it provides a solution for anyone tired of dealing with the aches and strains from long hours at a desk. The innovative mesh design goes beyond aesthetics – it conforms to my body, providing flexible support that keeps up with every shift and stretch throughout the day. One key feature is the self-adaptive lumbar support, which automatically tracks my movements to provide consistent lower back relief. The 6D coordinated armrests and the flexible headrest also make a real difference, adapting to how I sit, lean, or relax.

PROS:


  • Dynamic Lumbar Support: Automatically adjusts to your movements, providing continuous comfort and helping maintain proper posture without needing constant manual adjustments.

  • 6D coordinated armrests: Provides extensive customization, making it easy to find the perfect position for various tasks, whether gaming, typing, or relaxing.

  • Breathable Mesh Design: Promotes airflow and keeps you cool during long sessions, effectively managing moisture and heat.

  • Comprehensive Reclining Mechanism: With precise recline angles and weight-sensing technology, it provides a smooth reclining experience tailored to different sitting activities.Sophisticated Headrest: Offers highly customizable support for your neck and head, reducing strain during extended work or gaming sessions.

CONS:


  • Armrest Stability: The armrests could be more stable as they tend to shift too easily, which can be distracting during use.

  • Manual Lumbar Depth Adjustment: Adding a manual depth control for lumbar support would provide even more personalized comfort for users with specific back support preferences.

  • Recline Tension Control: Introducing a more easily adjustable recline tension control would allow users to customize their reclining experience more precisely, enhancing comfort.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Sihoo Doro C300 Pro redefines what you expect from an ergonomic chair at this affordable price—delivering premium comfort, dynamic support, and thoughtful customization that outshines much pricier competitors. This chair effortlessly bridges the gap between gaming and productivity, offering a tailored seating experience that meets diverse demands, helping you stay focused or unwind as needed.

What catches my attention is how this chair anticipates my needs. Whether I was knee-deep in work or leaning back to take a short break, the Doro C300 Pro adjusted seamlessly, offering reliable and personalized comfort. Reclining up to 135 degrees, paired with the responsive mesh, makes even long sessions at my desk bearable.

Some things weren’t perfect—for instance, the armrests shifted a bit too easily, and the lumbar support lacked the manual depth control that some users might have preferred. However, these are minor issues when considering the overall ergonomic experience. Finding a chair that genuinely supports the body’s natural movements is absolutely essential.

In this review, I’ll share my experience with the Sihoo Doro C300 Pro and explain why it provides reliable, lasting comfort and ergonomic support throughout long workdays.

Design

The Sihoo Doro C300 Pro chair features a thoughtful blend of ergonomic design and practical engineering. It’s designed to adapt to your body while staying sturdy and visually appealing.

Material Selection and Structural Integrity

The chair’s material choices reflect a deliberate approach to comfort and durability. The breathable mesh backrest serves multiple functions apart from aesthetic appeal – it provides thermal regulation, conforms to body contours, and offers flexible support. The Sihoo Doro C300 Pro’s mesh fabric offers several reasons, which became evident during my time using it.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

First and foremost, breathability is a key strength of the mesh design. It allows for excellent air circulation, keeping me comfortable during extended work sessions. This feature was particularly useful in my warm home office environment. The mesh’s conforming support also played a significant role in comfort. The material adapts to the contours of my body, distributing weight evenly and minimizing pressure points. This helped alleviate discomfort in areas like my hips, thighs, and lower back, allowing me to stay focused for longer.

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Another benefit was the temperature regulation provided by the open weave structure. The mesh effectively dissipates heat, which is crucial for maintaining comfort during long periods of sitting. In addition, the mesh incorporates moisture management properties, drawing sweat away from my body and further enhancing comfort—something that proved invaluable during warmer days.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

Another important aspect is the flexibility of the mesh material—it moves with my body, dynamically adjusting as I shift positions. This characteristic contributed to maintaining consistent comfort throughout my day. On top of that, the durability of the mesh should not be overlooked. Made from high-quality synthetic materials, the mesh remains supportive and retains its shape even after continuous use, ensuring long-term value.

The frame construction utilizes high-quality metals and synthetics engineered to support diverse body types with a robust five-star base. This foundation ensures stability while allowing smooth mobility across different floor surfaces. The weight capacity and structural design demonstrate a commitment to accommodating varied user physiques without compromising performance.

Functional Customization

Customization is a cornerstone of the Doro C300 Pro’s design. The 6D coordinated armrests, Bigger Waterfall-Shaped Cushion with Seat Depth adjustment, and 3D mechanical headrest demonstrate a nuanced understanding of individual ergonomic needs. Each adjustment point is engineered to provide precise control, allowing users to create a personalized seating environment that supports their unique body mechanics.

The single control handle elegantly solves complex adjustability, streamlining the user experience. This design choice reduces cognitive load, allowing users to fine-tune their seating position intuitively and quickly.

Aesthetic and Practical Harmony

The chair’s minimalist aesthetic reflects contemporary design principles, where form follows function. The clean lines, breathable mesh, and sophisticated color palette ensure the Doro C300 Pro integrates seamlessly into modern work environments. The chair is available in black and white, and I opted for the white version for my review. This approach treats the chair as a functional object and an integral part of the workspace’s visual and ergonomic setup.

By prioritizing material quality, adaptive support, and user-centric design, the Doro C300 Pro improves upon traditional office chair limitations. It represents a holistic approach to seating that considers physical comfort, workplace productivity, and individual well-being interconnected elements of design excellence.

Ergonomics and Real-World Performance

The Doro C300 Pro’s ergonomics excel in daily use. The design isn’t just about aesthetics—it provides lasting comfort, even after hours of sitting.

Reclining Backrest and Headrest Customization

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

The Sihoo Doro C300 Pro offers several features that enhance comfort during recline:

Weight-Sensing Technology

The chair incorporates advanced weight-sensing mechanism that automatically adapt to my body mass, delivering perfect tension during reclining. This ensures a smooth and balanced reclining experience regardless of the user’s weight.

Dynamic Support Features

  • Flexible Backrest: The triangular frame design allows the backrest to flex and match body movements, providing continuous support during recline.
  • Synchronized Armrests: The 6D armrests move in coordination with the backrest, maintaining arm support throughout different recline angles.
  • Body Movement Tracking System: The lumbar support dynamically adjusts to follow the spine’s natural curve during reclining.
  • Recline Angle Options

The chair offers precise recline positions:

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

  • 105° for focused tasks
  • 120° for relaxed working
  • 135° for maximum relaxation

Unique Reclining Mechanism

The Auto-Harmonic Tilt Design ensures the entire chair bends and flexes naturally with body movements. This creates a more organic reclining experience that feels less restrictive and more supportive.

Combining these features creates a responsive reclining experience that adapts to the user’s body, providing comfort and support across different sitting positions.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

Ultimately, the true value of the Sihoo Doro C300 Pro’s ergonomic features comes out during those extended work sessions—the times when a lesser chair would leave you feeling fatigued and sore. The adaptive lumbar support, customizable armrests, headrests, and recline all worked together to create a seating experience that didn’t require constant manual adjustments to stay comfortable. Instead, the chair supported me intuitively, allowing me to focus on my work rather than my discomfort. This type of ergonomic intelligence sets the Doro C300 Pro apart in a crowded market of office chairs.

Dynamic Lumbar Support

The self-adaptive lumbar support system is a low-maintenance feature that directly contributes to the chair’s ergonomic strength. Unlike chairs that rely on static or manual lumbar adjustments, the Doro C300 Pro provides dynamic support that adapts as you move.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

This means that the lumbar area always felt supported no matter how I adjusted my position—leaning forward to focus or reclining to relax. This type of real-time adjustment helps reduce strain and encourages better posture without the user needing to constantly fiddle with settings.

Ergonomic Mesh Integration

The mesh contributes to the overall ergonomic design of the Doro C300 Pro. It works harmoniously with the lumbar support, which moves with me as I recline, encouraging good posture and reducing strain. These features combine to deliver a seating experience that remains supportive and comfortable, even after hours of use. This premium mesh material creates a microclimate that effectively addresses one of the most common comfort issues in office seating—heat buildup.

However, more granular adjustability for lumbar depth would provide an even more personalized ergonomic experience, addressing a common need for those who prefer more direct control over lower back support.

Headrest Design and Adjustability

The Sihoo Doro C300 Pro features a sophisticated 3D mechanical headrest that brings substantial value to my daily comfort. Its comprehensive customization options allow for precise adjustments, making it adaptable to my specific needs.

Adjustment Capabilities

The headrest provides:

  • Height adjustment to align perfectly with my neck and head.
  • Forward and backward movement to achieve just the right level of support.
  • Rotational positioning for an ergonomic fit.
  • A wider surface area that enhances overall comfort, especially during extended use.

Unique Features

One unique aspect of the headrest is its cradle-like design that follows the natural contours of my neck. It moves independently from the backrest, allowing me to adjust it precisely without affecting my sitting position. The headrest’s ability to rotate and accommodate different sitting positions proved highly valuable whether I was working, gaming, or simply relaxing.

Ergonomic Benefits

The headrest significantly reduces neck strain during extended work sessions, allowing me to lean back comfortably without feeling unsupported. Its design also allows for comfortable side-leaning, which is a relief during those long periods of sitting. It provides reliable support across multiple postures and activities, which is a testament to its thoughtful design.

Material and Construction

Made with premium mesh material, the headrest balances elasticity and structural support. The mesh feels soft against the skin while maintaining enough tension to keep my head and neck in an ideal position. It integrates well with the chair’s overall ergonomic philosophy, creating a cohesive and comfortable sitting experience.

Overall, the headrest exemplifies the Doro C300 Pro’s commitment to personalized comfort, allowing me to fine-tune support for my specific neck and head positioning needs.

6D Coordinated Armrests

The armrests on the Doro C300 Pro are another big plus. The ‘6D’ refers to their six degrees of adjustability, which include height, depth, width, forward and backward movement, and rotation. This level of flexibility makes these armrests superior to the competition, providing support that adjusts to the most intricate preferences and postures. Compared to traditional height-adjustable armrests, which only move up and down, or even 3D and 4D versions, the 6D armrests go further by adding more directional control, making it suitable for different work styles—from typing and writing notes to switching between devices like tablets, keyboards, and mice.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

For those unfamiliar with the different types of armrests, height-adjustable armrests are ideal for basic tasks such as typing or general office work, helping maintain a neutral wrist position and reduce shoulder strain. Moving up a level, 3D armrests include height, depth, and rotational adjustments, which are suitable for multitasking or working with different devices. Meanwhile, 4D armrests add width adjustment into the mix, making them excellent for long work sessions or shared workspaces.

The Doro C300 Pro’s 6D coordinated armrests build on all these features, offering an even greater range of customization. This allows users to set the armrests precisely to their individual needs, making them versatile enough for anything from precision work to casual activities. Having armrests that easily adapt to each activity kept me comfortable without unnecessary strain. While the armrests could be more stable to prevent slight shifts, their wide range of adjustability offered the flexibility needed for a comfortable workday.

This is a minor issue, but I hope Sihoo will improve the stability of the armrests in the next iteration. Enhancing their stability would significantly improve the overall experience, ensuring they stay securely in place without unintended movement. These improvements would make the Doro C300 Pro even more adaptable and comfortable for extended use.

Value

The Sihoo Doro C300 Pro is a strong contender if you’re looking for the best value for your money in office and gaming chairs. With features that typically appear on high-end models, like dynamic lumbar support, 6D coordinated armrests, and a sophisticated reclining system, the Doro C300 Pro delivers a premium ergonomic experience without the hefty price tag.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

Its versatility shines through its customizable features, allowing it to transition seamlessly between different needs—whether you’re focusing intently on work or leaning back for a gaming session. The chair’s breathable mesh keeps you cool during long hours, while the headrest and adaptive lumbar support are designed to provide comfort exactly where it’s needed.

Click Here to Buy Now: $369.99  $699.99 ($330 savings). Hurry, this Black Friday deal ends soon!

Compared to other chairs in this category, the Doro C300 Pro offers a combination of adaptability, comfort, and thoughtful design—at a more affordable price than other high-end models. Currently available at $399.99 (down from $699.99), it’s a compelling choice for anyone who spends significant time at their desk and wants an ergonomic chair without breaking the bank. If budget is a concern, the basic Doro C300 model, now on sale for $299.99 (originally $399.99), is also a great option within the Doro C Series. If you’re looking for premium features or a budget-friendly choice, these deals offer a great opportunity to upgrade your workspace. Plus, don’t miss out on Sihoo’s free order giveaway event on Instagram.

Overall, the Sihoo Doro C300 Pro delivers a well-rounded, premium experience that meets the needs of both professionals and gamers, making it an excellent investment for lasting comfort.

 

The post SIHOO DORO C300 PRO REVIEW: HIGH-END Office and gaming chair at An Affordable Price first appeared on Yanko Design.

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nubia Z70 Ultra Review: Modern Elegance Comes to Smartphones https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/11/26/nubia-z70-ultra-review-modern-elegance-comes-to-smartphones/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nubia-z70-ultra-review-modern-elegance-comes-to-smartphones Tue, 26 Nov 2024 12:20:38 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=521624

nubia Z70 Ultra Review: Modern Elegance Comes to Smartphones

Smartphones are no longer just technological devices we use to communicate or connect to the Internet. They have become lifestyle choices and fashion statements, reflections...
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PROS:


  • Clean, elegant, and modern design

  • Artistic Starry Night Edition

  • Stunning edge-to-edge screen with under-display camera

  • Powerful hardware and good camera output

  • Rare IP69 rating for protection against high-pressure 80°C (176°F) water

CONS:


  • No wireless charging

  • Divisive camera design

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The nubia Z70 Ultra delivers a competitive smartphone wrapped in a stunning design that matches today's modern minimalist aesthetics.

Smartphones are no longer just technological devices we use to communicate or connect to the Internet. They have become lifestyle choices and fashion statements, reflections of our own personalities. It’s no wonder that there’s a wide variety of smartphone cases that cover different styles, interests, and themes, but a phone that arrives with natural beauty is still a cut above the rest.

No matter how thin or light a protective case may be, it still adds something to the phone, something that could be unnecessary if the phone’s design itself is a sight to behold. The nubia Z70 Ultra promises to deliver a smartphone that looks sleek and sophisticated without cutting corners when it comes to performance, so we take it out for a spin to check for ourselves if it can deliver.

Designer: nubia

Aesthetics

There’s still an ongoing debate on whether curved or flat edges are more “modern” but there’s definitely something fresh about the recent wave of designs that espouse flatness. This kind of aesthetic better fits the minimalism trend that continues to pervade the design world, striving to convey elegance and beauty without embellishments. It espouses clean lines and surfaces, prioritizing essential forms and functions over extravagant features both visual and technical.

The nubia Z70 Ultra tries to embody this design direction, presenting a clean and premium aesthetic that will suit almost anyone’s taste. The flat sides, flat back, and flat display give it a modern and minimalist look devoid of extraneous details. Aside from the camera island, which we’ll get to later, there isn’t a visual element out of place. Even branding is kept to a bare minimum and only in one area.

The color options for the nubia Z70 Ultra also speak to this character of elegance. Gold and black are as premium as you can get without being flashy or dull. And then there’s the Starry Night edition, inspired by the iconic van Gogh painting of the same name. Although it does run in the opposite direction of minimalism, this artful design paints the Z70 Ultra as a canvas for creativity and inspiration.

Most of the time, a smartphone’s screen only comes to play only when actually using the device, but the nubia Z70 Ultra elevates it to the level of a centerpiece. The edge-to-edge display, thanks to the brand’s 7th-generation under-display camera (UDC), is just stunning, even when there’s nothing captivating being shown. It perfectly completes the formula of a clean and modern design, pushing bezels and cutouts out of the way.

The one area where nubia’s claim of a clean and elegant design sort of breaks down is with the cameras. It’s not unattractive, mind, but it’s going to be an acquired taste. Unlike conventional designs that tend to lump the cameras together, the nubia Z70 Ultra spread them apart. This makes the arrangement look more like a classic film camera, which is probably the intention, though it might also look messy to some people.

Ergonomics

With a thickness of 8.6mm and a weight of 228g, the nubia Z70 Ultra is by no means thin and light. Given the hardware it’s packing inside, especially the battery, that’s really no surprise. It does, however, have an impact on your comfort over long periods of time. That said, weight is evenly distributed and the full-width camera bump gives the index finger a natural resting spot. The flat sides also have chamfered edges so they don’t bite into your hand as much as you would think.

The scattered arrangement of the phone’s cameras is a bit deceptive. They’re still sitting on a large block that not only covers almost a third of the phone’s back. Despite that, the nubia Z70 Ultra will still wobble a wee bit when placed on a flat surface because the main camera juts out slightly from the rest of the camera island. Not exactly a deal breaker, especially since most smartphones today wobble that way, but still a bit disappointing given how large that rectangular bump is.

Performance

You’re probably familiar with sayings about how beauty can sometimes be skin-deep, but that’s thankfully not the case for premium smartphones. After all, they have to follow a standard set of components to remain competitive in the market. In that regard, the nubia Z70 Ultra doesn’t break from the mold, arriving as one of the earliest to use the shiny new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. There are different memory configurations available, though the special Starry Night edition only comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

This combination basically means that the nubia Z70 Ultra is definitely no slouch, able to handle anything you throw at it with aplomb. It’s not a gaming smartphone with ridiculous cooling systems, but it definitely gets by with a little warmth in your hands. More importantly, the smartphone is well-prepared to handle a variety of AI-related tasks, from real-time call translation to live captioning to making sure selfies are up to snuff.

As mentioned earlier, the nubia Z70 Ultra’s large 6.85-inch AMOLED screen is one of its biggest selling points, though not just because of how bright and fast it is with a 144Hz refresh rate and 2000 nits of peak brightness. It even has one of the highest rated 2592Hz PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation) dimming advertised to be easier on the eyes. It’s real pull is its edge-to-edge design, made possible by nubia’s under-display camera technology.

You might have heard of, seen, or even used these invisible front-facing cameras, but they haven’t exactly been the popular design their proponents made them out to be years ago. One look at the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold’s pasty selfies shows why it’s a tricky thing to pull off. Fortunately, nubia never gave up on that technology and can now boast a 16MP front-facing camera that’s completely hidden from sight. And unless you really try to look for the lower resolution area above that camera hole, you won’t even notice it’s there.

Given how it features prominently on the back of the phone, the nubia Z70 Ultra’s cameras are definitely a major focus of the product, though not exactly its highlight. It does have a capable 50MP Sony IMX906 sensor, but its biggest feat is the 35mm variable aperture lens that can go from f/1.59 to f/4.0 in 9 steps. This biomimetic design tries to recreate the effect of our own eyes’ irises, adjusting how much light is taken in for more natural shots.

The other two cameras in the set are pretty impressive as well. There’s a 64MP periscope-style telephoto camera with a 70mm focal length, as well as a 50MP ultra-wide shooter with a 13mm equivalent lens. Given the high-quality hardware, it’s not surprising to see equally high-quality shots, filled with details even on an overcast day. Of course, there are also plenty of AI-powered features and enhancements, trying to make up for what small sensors and lenses are lacking.

Part of the nubia Z70 Ultra’s thickness and heft is due to the extra-large 6150 mAh battery inside, one of the biggest capacities in smartphone that’s a little below 7 inches. It supports fast 80W charging to compensate for the large battery size. Unfortunately, it seems that nubia still refuses to give its Ultra flagships wireless charging capabilities, which is a pretty puzzling choice in this day and age.

Sustainability

More elegant designs, premium materials, and powerful hardware often also incur greater material usage as well as waste. The use of virgin plastic, fresh metal, and new glass has a heavy impact on the environment, especially if you’re not taking steps to minimize energy and water consumption. Unfortunately, the nubia Z70 Ultra doesn’t stray from the norm, which leans more toward environment-unfriendly practices and materials.

Where it does shine, however, is its ability to stay with you a lot longer than most other premium flagships. In addition to an IP68 dust and water resistance rating that’s now standard on high-end phones, the nubia Z70 Ultra also boasts IP69 certification, which means it’s safeguarded against high-temperature, high-pressure water, typically sprayed at around 80°C (176°F) with a pressure of up to 100 bar. It’s not an earth-shattering perk, but it still helps protect the product from an untimely demise.

Value

There is clearly a rise in smartphone designs that try to appeal to consumers’ aesthetic tastes more than just technical needs. This industry, fortunately, doesn’t make you choose one or the other, especially on a tier where you’re paying a lot to get the best, both in terms of features as well as design. The nubia Z70 Ultra is definitely a part of that group, presenting a clean and modern design matched with impressive performance.

The catch, as always, is one of availability and reach. nubia is positioning the Z70 Ultra as a global smartphone, but there will be cases where getting your hands on one will still be difficult, like in the carrier-centric US. The sweet starting price of around $640 is quite tempting, though, so it definitely deserves consideration if you’re even in the market for a new phone this year.

Verdict

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but there are always times when the majority seem to agree on a particular standard. Minimalism, for example, is still the ruling aesthetic, and its influence is reaching the smartphone industry as well. From pleasing curves to simple lines, smartphones are shifting away from being a smorgasbord of features to works of art.

The nubia Z70 Ultra perfectly embodies that movement with its clean, modern, and sleek design. It is minimalism at its finest, putting focus on the essentials while displaying sophistication and class through the creative use of colors, materials, and finishes. And it’s quite a powerful device as well, making it a well-balanced option for people looking for an everyday companion that can keep up with their needs while also reflecting their aesthetic tastes.

The post nubia Z70 Ultra Review: Modern Elegance Comes to Smartphones first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Realme GT 7 Pro Review: Flagship Performance Meets Affordability https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/11/23/realme-gt-7-pro-review-flagship-performance-meets-affordability/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=realme-gt-7-pro-review-flagship-performance-meets-affordability Sat, 23 Nov 2024 15:20:24 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=521257

Realme GT 7 Pro Review: Flagship Performance Meets Affordability

Realme’s GT series has long been celebrated for delivering a performance-focused flagship. Just three months ago, in July, Realme re-entered the global stage with the...
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PROS:


  • Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipsets

  • Massive 6500mAh battery and fast 120W wired charging

  • Bright and vibrant display

  • Attractive pricing

CONS:


  • USB 2.0, not USB 3.0

  • No wireless charging

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Realme GT 7 Pro stands out as a strong contender in the smartphone market, particularly for those seeking a performance-driven device at an attractive price point.

Realme’s GT series has long been celebrated for delivering a performance-focused flagship. Just three months ago, in July, Realme re-entered the global stage with the launch of the global GT 6, marking its return to the global GT series after a two-year hiatus. Now, Realme is back with the GT 7 Pro, setting new benchmarks in the smartphone industry.

The Realme GT 7 Pro is the first flagship phone equipped with Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset in more than ten markets, including India, Malaysia, Thailand, and Spain. But that is not the only thing going for GT 7 Pro. Beyond its powerful processor, the phone boasts a massive 6,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging, a super-bright display, and a unique underwater photography mode. The Realme GT 7 Pro is undoubtedly a device to be reckoned with. Just how impressive is it? We put it to the test.

Designer: Realme

Aesthetics

The Realme GT 7 Pro is available in two color variants: Mars Orange and Galaxy Grey. The Mars Orange variant, which we received for this review, is uniquely eye-catching. Its matte back panel features a subtle, sand-like pattern that adds depth and texture to the vibrant orange hue, creating a sophisticated and refined appearance.

The bronze-colored side frame with a matte finish complements this bold choice, setting it apart from the trend of subtle, pastel colors. This color option is perfect for those who want their device to make a statement. For those who prefer more subdued tones, the Galaxy Grey option offers classic, minimalist aesthetics.

The design of the GT 7 Pro goes beyond color, emphasizing thoughtful construction and attention to detail. In the top-left corner, a square camera island houses a triple camera setup alongside an LED flash. This island is elegantly positioned on a raised square base, finished in matte orange with shiny edges, providing a striking contrast and sophisticated touch. The “HYPERIMAGE+” branding is subtly placed on the slanted right side of the base.

The cameras are seamlessly integrated into a flat cover, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also makes it easy to clean and maintain, ensuring the back panel remains sleek and uncluttered. Realme also has paid attention to the smallest details, moving the CE marking to the side frame, resulting in a clean and uninterrupted back panel design.

Ergonomics

The Realme GT 7 Pro measures 162.45 x 76.89 x 55mm and weighs 222.8g. While it isn’t the slimmest or lightest device, considering its 6,500mAh battery and large Vapor Chamber, it’s impressive. The slightly curved edges of the back panel and the flat side frame ensure the phone doesn’t dig into your palm. Although the transition from the back panel to the frame is noticeable, it doesn’t significantly impact comfort.

The fingerprint sensor is conveniently located about 1.6 inches or 4cm above the bottom edge of the screen, making it easy to unlock the phone and navigate. However, due to the camera island’s position on the upper left, the phone wobbles slightly when placed on a flat surface. The textured back panel, sleek aluminum frame, and quad-curved display give the phone a premium feel in hand.

Performance

The Realme GT 7 Pro is a powerhouse, driven by the cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, featuring Qualcomm’s 2+6 Oryon CPU and Hexagon NPU. This is complemented by LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, and runs Android 15 out of the box, with realme UI 6.0 on top of it.

As a performance-centric phone, the GT 7 Pro delivers on its promise of an exceptional gaming experience. During intensive gaming sessions, the device only gets slightly warm, never hot, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite’s efficiency and the impressive 11,480mm² Iceberg Vapor Chamber—the largest in its segment according to Realme. Activating GT mode eliminates frame drops and lag, providing a smooth and immersive gaming experience, exemplified by hours of seamless gameplay in titles like Genshin Impact.

The GT 7 Pro’s display is another standout feature. The 6.78-inch Eco² OLED panel, co-developed with Samsung, boasts a 2780×1264 resolution and can reach a peak brightness of 6500 nits (2000 nits in High Brightness Mode and 1000 nits of typical brightness). With a 120Hz refresh rate, 120% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, and HDR10+ support, the display is not only bright and vibrant but also energy-efficient, thanks to 8T LTPO technology. This ensures a visually stunning experience, whether gaming or streaming videos. The stereo speaker delivers ample volume, but the sound quality is underwhelming.

The GT 7 Pro’s 6,500mAh silicon anode battery is impressive, easily lasting a full day of heavy use, including gaming, photography, and video streaming. The 120W fast wired charging is a standout feature, charging from 0 to 50% in just 13 minutes and fully charging in 37 minutes, according to realme.

While it lacks wireless charging, this is a reasonable trade-off given the phone’s large battery, fast charging, and competitive price. Realme includes a 120W charger in the box, allowing users to fully benefit from fast charging without extra cost. This makes the lack of wireless charging less of an issue for most. However, the phone’s USB 2.0 connectivity may disappoint some users as a cost-saving measure.

Main, 1x, 24mm

Telephoto, 3x, 73mm

Telephoto, 6x, 144mm

The rear camera setup includes a 50MP main camera with a Sony IMX 906 sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP ultrawide camera. The main camera captures vibrant images with balanced exposure and dynamic range in daytime and nighttime. The telephoto lens, featuring a Sony IMX 882 sensor, supports 3x optical zoom and up to 120x digital zoom, also offering a macro mode. The telephoto takes pretty good 3x photos with nice details. The ultrawide camera’s performance is less impressive but maintains color consistency with the other lenses.

Main, 1x, 24mm

Ultrawide, 0.6x, 16mm

As for the video, the main and telephoto cameras support up to 4K at 60fps, while the main camera can also record in 8K at 24fps. The video footage from the main and telephoto are generally well-exposed with great stabilization. The front-facing camera is limited to 1080p at 60fps.

Telephoto (Macro), 3x, 73mm

Main, 2x, 49mm

One of the unique features of the GT 7 Pro is its underwater photography mode, enabled by its IP69 and IP68 ratings. While it’s not intended for deep diving, this mode is ideal for activities like swimming and snorkeling, with Realme recommending depths of 0-2 meters for up to 30 minutes.

This feature opens the door to creative underwater shots. I tested it by submerging the phone in a murky pond filled with koi fish. Even though I had to shoot with an awkward arm position and couldn’t clearly see the screen, I was still able to capture sharp, clear images of the fish.

A notable limitation, however, is that once you start recording video, you’re unable to adjust the zoom or switch between the rear and front cameras. Additionally, dual-view video is not supported in underwater mode. It would be great to have these features available while recording.

Another small inconvenience is the alert sound that plays when you exit underwater mode by holding the power button. It can be a bit jarring. Despite these minor issues, the phone performed exceptionally well, delivering impressive results overall.

Powered by its advanced chipset, the Realme GT 7 Pro offers a comprehensive suite of AI features, including AI Sketch to Image, AI Motion Deblur, AI Gaming Super Resolution, and AI Gaming Super Frame. The AI Sketch to Image feature is undoubtedly fun to experiment with. However, its practical applications may vary from user to user, and it remains uncertain how often it will be integrated into daily routines.

The AI Sketch to Image feature allows users to express their creativity in multiple ways. By opening AI Doodle from the side button, you can draw directly on your device or take a photo of your hand-drawn sketch for the AI to transform into a digital masterpiece. Additionally, you can add creative elements to existing photos in your album.

A more practical AI tool for enhancing your photos on GT 7 Pro is AI Motion Deblur. Previously, Realme’s AI Ultra Clarity, introduced with the GT6, focused on sharpening images affected by out-of-focus blur but was limited in addressing motion blur. The GT 7 Pro takes a significant step forward by enabling users to effectively unblur images impacted by motion blur.

This feature targets blur caused by subjects moving in a single-direction motion or from camera shake, addressing one of the most common photography challenges. In my experience with several test photos, the results were mixed. However, when the feature performed well, it successfully salvaged blurry photos without making them look artificially processed or over-edited.

Sustainability

While the Realme GT 7 Pro excels in several areas of durability and longevity, there is no specific information available regarding the use of sustainable materials in its construction. However, the device is built to withstand various environmental challenges, thanks to its IP69 and IP68 certifications. These ratings ensure robust protection against dust and water, allowing users to feel secure against the elements in diverse conditions.

In terms of battery longevity, Realme claims that the GT 7 Pro will maintain more than 80% of its battery health even after four years of use. This focus on battery endurance means users can expect consistent performance over time, reducing the need for frequent replacements and contributing to a more sustainable use of resources.

The GT 7 Pro is supported by a promise of three major OS upgrades and four years of security patches. This level of software support is typical for Android flagship phones from Chinese manufacturers. Overall, while the Realme GT 7 Pro incorporates some elements of sustainability, it remains a step behind leaders in sustainability.

Value

The Realme GT 7 Pro offers a compelling blend of top-notch performance and features at competitive prices. In China, the base model starts at 3,699 CNY (approximately $510 USD) for 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. The top-tier model with 16GB RAM and 1TB storage is priced at 4,799 CNY (around $660 USD).

This is an incredible price for a phone powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, boasting a great display, a massive 6500mAh battery, and a stylish design. If you’re seeking a performance-focused smartphone, the Realme GT 7 Pro offers exceptional value for money.

Verdict

The Realme GT 7 Pro stands out as a strong contender in the smartphone market, particularly for those seeking a performance-driven device at an attractive price point. With its powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, massive 6,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging, and a bright, vibrant display, the GT 7 Pro delivers impressive performance across the board. The attractive pricing further enhances its appeal, making it a compelling choice for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike.

Overall, the Realme GT 7 Pro offers a well-rounded package with exceptional performance, impressive battery life, and beautiful aesthetics. Its value for money is undeniable, especially for those prioritizing cutting-edge performance and massive battery over other features. While it may not lead the pack in mobile imaging, it remains a highly competitive option in its price range, delivering a flagship experience without breaking the bank.

The post Realme GT 7 Pro Review: Flagship Performance Meets Affordability first appeared on Yanko Design.

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