You often wonder if the case you intend to buy serves any protective function, besides defending the device from scratches. How can a layer of plastic less than a millimeter thick absorb the impact and not cause even more damage to the smartphone… This is about the MSVII brand case, which is characterized by an extremely slim design and raises doubts among many customers. This article is being written for this reason, as I am not a fan of dressing my Mi5 in a large, cumbersome, armored cover, and MSVII initially seemed to me to be a rather interesting alternative to a smartphone without a case, but scratched and scuffed.
It so happens that even before MSVII was introduced to our assortment, Dawid decided to give me one piece of this case for testing, so I have quite a long testing period behind me. But let’s start from the beginning…
Appearance
It cannot be denied that MSVII is a very minimalist product in appearance – the entire back part is a smooth surface, only the lower part is tastefully signed with the manufacturer’s name, its motto, and country of origin.
I really like the solution regarding the side buttons – they are completely exposed. Although this makes them susceptible to damage and such issues (I will talk about this later in the review), it makes the case stand out in the market and thanks to such small details, it can be appealing. It suits me perfectly.
Comfort
The MSVII case is a very slim construction – the manufacturer declares 0.7mm, according to my inaccurate measurements, this is roughly true. The slimness ensures quick adaptation of the hand to the new shape and, in my opinion, the Mi5 with MSVII fits much better in the hand. This less than a millimeter is a noticeable difference in grip and comfort of use.
The manufacturer also ensured easy installation of the case on the device and three corners of the case are cut – this prevents cracks and unnecessary stress during putting on and taking off the cover.
A better grip is also provided by the rubber coating, which is simply great. The smartphone sticks very well to the hand (in a nice sense of the word) and it never slipped out of my hand during use. I suspect that this coating is responsible for the popularity of this model of case – I suspect that without it my tests would have ended after a maximum of 2 hours – with a broken Mi5 and the cover in the fire.
Durability and Protection
Half a year of using the case is quite a long trial and I think I can properly comment on the durability of MSVII products.
The material from which the case is made is polycarbonate. It must be a good quality material because (except for the most exposed areas) the cover almost does not crack, and in places of impact, there are only dents. Additionally, the case is quite flexible, which does not have much significance in use, but a lot in transport, as we have relatively few complaints about damaged MSVII right after being taken out of the package – we all know how couriers can treat our shipments…
My copies have already collected quite a large collection of scratches, but in daylight, it is not noticeable. The blue piece even participated in a not very soft landing on a few concrete steps (in a hurry I missed the pocket with the phone) and we see two dents on it, but they have almost no impact on the appearance or functionality of the case. However, here one of the disadvantages, which I also consider an advantage, was highlighted – the exposed button panel. During falls and impacts, there is simply no option that we will not scratch the frame of the smartphone in this place. It looks interesting, but unfortunately – you win some, you lose some. Fortunately, for some smartphone models, the manufacturer offers cases with a covered button section – it is worth contacting our store before purchase and simply asking.
Summary and Price
At first, I thought I would test the product for a few days and return to the thick and clunky (compared to MSVII) Ringke Fusion, but the truth turned out to be different. The case performs excellently in everyday use and, as long as you are not a fan of dropping your smartphone and try to take at least a little care of it, it is worth considering purchasing the MSVII case. My copies have survived with me for over half a year and although they no longer look like they were freshly taken out of the box, I am still impressed with their durability.
At this price, it is hard to find a better quality case that will be slim, match the durability of MSVII, and be so comfortable in everyday use. Additionally, we sell the MSVII case for most device models in a set with tempered glass, which will further enhance the protection of your smartphone.
There is little time left until the launch of the new flagship models from the Korean manufacturer – Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9 Plus. How will they be better than their predecessors?
Appearance
Many people are disappointed by the lack of revolution, as Samsung decided to refine only a few elements, leaving the appearance almost unchanged. One of the changes is the arrangement of the cameras and the fingerprint reader – they will not be arranged horizontally, but vertically, which is definitely supposed to improve the comfort of using the smartphone. As you can see, the Korean giant listens to its customers and improves what didn’t work out in the previous revolution.
The sizes of the smartphones will be very similar or identical to the previous series, and when combined with a very similar appearance, people using the S8 or S8 Plus will not have to take long to get their hands used to the shape of the device.
Cameras
The new generation of the Galaxy series can boast an extremely bright and adjustable aperture of f/2.4- f/1.5 in the 12Mpix camera. The larger model will also have a dual camera. According to the latest leaks, the new generation of Samsung’s systems will allow recording videos at up to 960 frames per second.
The front camera in both cases is a single 8Mpix camera. Interestingly, the iris scanner in the smaller version will be integrated with the camera, while in the S9 Plus, the scanner and camera will be separate sections.
Samsung, whether they wanted to or not, followed Apple’s path, so we can expect that the Plus version will not only be larger but will also have better components. This refers to a larger amount of RAM (6GB vs 4GB) and the use of a dual camera in the S9+.
Credit should be given to Samsung for not following the crowd, and in its latest model, we will have the standard, normal, well-known 3.5mm Jack socket. Additionally, there is support for SD cards, as well as a dust and waterproof IP68-rated casing.
It seems that the Samsung Galaxy S9 no longer holds any secrets from us. We are left to await the official presentation, which is to take place at this year’s MWC in Barcelona on February 25. Accessories and cases for the Galaxy S9 will also soon appear with us, so we invite you to follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter!
The Galaxy S9 premiere is behind us, and the first devices will reach users on March 8. In our offer, you can already find Spigen cases for the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9 Plus. Let’s take a look at the most popular models.
For many generations, the most popular Spigen case dedicated to the Galaxy series. It is a combination of TPU with an interesting pattern and a polycarbonate frame that adds uniqueness while strengthening the construction. The colors available for the Galaxy S9 are Gunmetal (metallic), Shiny Black (glossy black), Liliac Purple (purple), Pale Dogwood (shady). It is the best combination of great protection and unique design.
Simple in construction and at the same time effective in protection during everyday use – this is how the Rugged Armor model can be described. Built entirely from thermoplastic urethane with a matte finish that does not collect fingerprints. The appearance is enhanced by inserts imitating woven carbon fiber. The case comes in black and is dedicated to those looking for simple drop protection with uncomplicated design.
A minimalist case for the Galaxy S9 with a unique, geometric pattern. The case is more streamlined than the Rugged Armor model and enlarges the device to a lesser extent. It protects the device from minor drops but enhances user comfort due to its small dimensions. Thanks to the use of matte TPU, this model is perfect for everyday use. If you are looking for a minimalist case for the Galaxy S9, Liquid Air will be the perfect choice.
These are the 3 most popular Spigen models for the Galaxy S9, and they will certainly meet the requirements of users who value interesting design and the highest quality workmanship.
Let’s summarize all the information about the new work of the Korean giant. The premiere of the flagship model LG G7 ThinQ will take place on May 2 in New York. The phrase “ThinkQ” is not accidental – LG uses this term for all its products that utilize artificial intelligence. What will change compared to the previous flagship?
The design of the device itself differs slightly due to the different arrangement of the camera lenses compared to the LG G6, currently, the camera layout will be vertical. The trend for the “notch” has also crept into LG’s latest product and this characteristic screen cutout already known from competing Apple or Huawei models will also appear in the G7 – users not fond of this type of solution can effectively mask it by displaying a black frame around the “notch”. While we’re on the screen, it’s worth mentioning that it will be 6.1” and will be produced using LCD technology and its brightness is expected to reach up to 1000 nits. The screen proportions are an unusual 19.5:9, and the resolution is QHD+ (3120 x 1440px) – LG has named it Super Bright Display. According to publicly available leaks, the new flagship will be equipped with a Snapdragon 845 processor, 4-6GB RAM, and a 3000mAh battery.
At launch, the LG G7 is expected to be available in five colors: black, gray, blue, matte blue, and pink. Unfortunately, there is no information yet on whether all colors of the device will be available in all markets.
We are pleased that LG, in its latest product, has not forgotten about fans of traditional headphones and at the bottom of the casing there is a 3.5mm Jack input. In an era of following trends, which unfortunately translate to lower practicality, the manufacturer should be praised for retaining the classic headphone jack.
Accessories and cases for the LG G7 will soon appear in the Home Screen store, so we invite you to follow us on social media and subscribe to the newsletter!
Some time ago, we got to know three refined devices from the Chinese technology giant – Huawei. Even before the premiere, there was quite a stir because the manufacturer decided to release a trio, which had not happened before. We are, of course, talking about the P20 Lite, P20, and the top variant P20 Pro models.
Introduction to the Huawei trio
The last two models were created with the intention of competing with the best on the market. They will stand shoulder to shoulder with iPhones, Samsung S9 and S9+, as well as flagships from Sony or LG. The devices present a refreshed design of the Chinese brand, although there is visible inspiration from Cupertino products. There is, for example, the characteristic notch at the top of the screen, typical of the iPhone X.
All devices also differ in size and back. The P20 Pro is equipped with as many as three lenses, branded by the well-known photography company – Leica. Thanks to this, photos taken with its help will be of the highest quality. No detail will escape us. The P20 and P20 Pro have a fingerprint reader on the front, while the cheapest model has it on the back. We do not comment on which location is more practical, as tastes are not to be discussed.
The entire trio is made of glass, and we all know how careless use of such devices without any protection ends. You are probably curious about the water resistance of the described smartphones? The P20 meets the IP53 standard (splash resistance, we do not recommend submerging it), P20 Pro IP68 (submersion resistance). Unfortunately, the cheapest model, P20 Lite, is not even splash-resistant. To meet your expectations, we have prepared several proposals to protect your devices.
Huawei P20 Lite, P20, and P20 Pro – protections
First up is the weakest model of the bunch, the Lite. The fact that it costs the least does not mean we do not need to take care of it. For those looking for “wallet” cases, the perfect proposal will be the DuxDucis case, which is available in four colors: black, navy blue, gold, and pink. However, if we want to have the display always at hand, we can opt for standard protection for the back and sides of the device. Here, the slim Spigen Liquid Crystal case will work perfectly, providing ideal protection for our device.
We have also prepared several solutions for the P20 model. Here, too, we find the DuxDucis closed case, as in the Lite model. If you want to protect only the back and sides of the device, we can recommend the MSVII case, which perfectly surrounds the entire smartphone. The case is made of polycarbonate, so it will not deform, and its durability will be at a level satisfying you. Available colors are: red, black, blue, and purple.
It would not be complete without protection for the top device of the entire discussed trio. Since there is a lot to protect at the back (3 cameras), we would recommend the “back” case Spigen Rugged Armor. The main distinguishing feature is the military certificate MIL-STD-810G. It guarantees survival from a fall of 1.2 or 2 meters. Remember, there is a lot to protect – the P20 Pro currently costs an average of 3300 PLN (in official stores). However, if we are interested in a closed case, we will also be able to use the DuxDucis cover, which is offered in the same colors as above.
Yesterday, we had the opportunity to watch the official launch of the OnePlus 6. A device that will be quite a competition for more “prestigious” brands, such as Samsung, Huawei, or Apple. Below you will find the most important information related to the mentioned device.
For a long time, we could find at least a dozen rumors and leaks about the OnePlus 6 on the internet. Today, we already know all the information regarding the mentioned handset. Let’s start with the smartphone’s specifications:
Dimensions, weight: 155.7 x 75.4 x 7.8 mm, 177g;
Display: 6.28” Full HD+;
Resolution: 2280 x 1080 pixels, 19:9, Optic Amoled;
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 with Adreno 630;
RAM: 6 or 8 GB;
System: Android 8.1 Oreo with OxygenOS overlay;
Built-in memory: 64, 128, or 256 GB (no microSD card slot);
Camera: 16 MP, f/1.7, Sony IMX 519, 1.22µm, OIS + 20 MP, f/1.7, Sony IMX 376K;
Battery: 3300 mAh, support for fast charging (Dash Charge);
Additional information: NFC, gyroscope, fingerprint reader, WiFi 802.11 a/b/d/n/ac, USB-C 2.0, DUAL SIM, Bluetooth 5.0, 3.5 mm jack, and face recognition
Build, screen, and components – key information
In previous generations, it was futile to look for glass in the finish of OnePlus smartphones. This time, the manufacturer decided to change its approach, resulting in a solid combination of a glass body, metal frame, and a good front display. The head of the mentioned company emphasizes that the device can boast splash resistance (although it officially does not meet the iPXX standard).
The smartphone features a 6.28-inch Optic AMOLED display. It offers a 19:9 aspect ratio (thanks to its resolution) and the iPhone X’s recognizable element – a notch at the top of the screen (with the option to hide it). We also find a system similar to Face ID here, allowing us to unlock our device using our face. It’s a pity the manufacturer didn’t opt for an even higher resolution.
The OnePlus 6 is powered by one of the strongest chipsets on the market – the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845. The processor consists of 8 Kryo 385 cores and an Adreno 630 graphics unit. The whole is made in a 10nm technological process. Adding 6 or 8 GB of RAM to this will make it a true command center at our fingertips.
Camera as a strong point
The manufacturer decided to install a dual camera on the back of the device. 16 and 20 Mpx with optical image stabilization should do the trick. Additionally, Sony sensors were implemented here: IMX 519 and IMX 367K. It should be remembered that the principle of operation of the lenses known from the OnePlus 5T was maintained here. Namely, the 20-megapixel unit is responsible for night photos. The process is characterized by collecting light from two adjacent pixels, which translates into better photos in difficult lighting conditions. In the photographic options, we will also find a portrait mode, which gained popularity thanks to Apple products.
The new smartphone is not just about the camera and the quality of the photos taken. Additional options related to video recording also matter. Thus, we will be able to use 60-second video materials. All this to be able to choose the best moment and make the so-called slow-motion. Such materials will be recorded in Full HD resolution at 240 fps or HD at 480 fps. The icing on the cake will be the ability to record video in 4K at 60 fps.
How much will all this cost us?
We will be able to purchase the device in the following configurations:
As you can see, these prices are much lower than those of the main rivals, and the device does not lag behind them at all. Pre-sale of the device should start on May 22. Someone has probably already noticed that the entire lineup lacks a white color version. Unfortunately, purchasing the OnePlus 6 in this color will only be possible from June 5.
Soon, many models of accessories for OnePlus 6 in our offer!
Apple is preparing a big September conference – what do we know about the release date?
For years, Apple has been organizing its biggest product event in September, traditionally in the second or third full week of the month. It is then that we get to know the new iPhone models, and along with them – for several generations – also new Apple Watch models. The release of the Apple Watch SE 3 also fits into this schedule.
Although Apple has not yet confirmed the exact date of the event, industry analysts and leaks indicate that this year’s conference will most likely take place around September 10–18, 2025. After the presentation of the devices on stage, Apple usually:
announces the start of pre-orders already on Friday of the same week (e.g., September 12),
and the official sale starts a week later – also on Friday (e.g., September 19).
What will Apple show in September 2025?
List of announced premieres
September 2025 promises to be one of the most important months in Apple’s calendar. The company plans to present a range of new products that will certainly attract the attention of both technology enthusiasts and average users. Here is an overview of the expected premieres.
iPhone 17 – the new generation of smartphones
Apple is preparing to introduce the iPhone 17 series, which is expected to bring significant improvements compared to previous models. The expected novelties include:
New A19 processor: providing better performance and energy efficiency.
Improved cameras: with larger sensors and advanced photographic features.
Larger displays: with thinner bezels and better color reproduction.
New case colors: including shades of blue and green.
Apple Watch Series 11 – evolution of the watch
The new generation of Apple Watch is expected to bring several significant changes:
Blood pressure monitoring: a feature that allows for the detection of hypertension.
Better display: with LTPO or Micro-LED technology for better brightness and energy savings.
New S12 processor: providing faster operation and better integration with health features.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 – for the most demanding
The third generation of Apple Watch Ultra is aimed at users who need the most advanced features:
Satellite connectivity: allowing communication in areas without cellular network coverage.
Blood pressure monitoring: similar to Series 11.
Improved display: with greater brightness and better color reproduction.
AirPods Pro 3 – new sound quality
Apple also plans to refresh its line of headphones:
Better sound quality: thanks to new drivers and signal processing technologies.
Longer battery life: allowing for longer listening without charging.
New features related to Apple Intelligence: such as adaptive noise cancellation.
Apple Watch SE 3 – What will change?
🆕 Will the Apple Watch SE 3 have a larger screen?
Everything indicates that it will. One of the biggest changes in the Apple Watch SE 3 will be the enlarged screen. So far, the SE series models offered cases in sizes 40 mm and 44 mm, which corresponded to a display diagonal of 1.57 inches and 1.73 inches, respectively.
Meanwhile, according to Ross Young – one of the most reliable display market analysts – Apple has already started production of new screens with diagonals of about 1.6 inches and 1.8 inches. This means that the SE 3 may appear in the same case sizes as the flagship Series 7–9 models, i.e., 41 mm and 45 mm.
What does a larger screen offer in the Apple Watch?
A larger screen is not just more space – it also offers completely new possibilities for the user:
Greater readability – notifications, messages, or health information will be easier to read, even on the go.
New watch faces – Apple often reserves some faces for larger models. SE 3 may therefore gain new, exclusive faces.
Greater interaction comfort – gestures, scrolling, and even typing on the on-screen keyboard (in the Cellular version) will become more convenient.
Better utilization of watchOS 12 – the new Apple operating system for watches is expected to use larger panels to present smart widgets (Smart Stack 2.0) and dynamic health tiles.
And what about the bezels?
Another possible improvement is thinner bezels around the screen, which will allow for a larger display in the same case – without increasing the overall size of the watch. This means that the Apple Watch SE 3 may look more modern, visually approaching the Series 9 or even Ultra series.
Case – but not plastic! Apple relies on proven solutions
For a long time, there were rumors in the industry that Apple planned to introduce a plastic case in the upcoming Apple Watch SE 3. Such a decision would aim to significantly reduce production costs, which would translate into an even lower final price of the watch – ideal for users with a limited budget or for younger audiences (e.g., children and teenagers).
However, the latest reports contradict this strategy. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg – one of the best-informed technology journalists in the world – Apple ultimately abandoned the idea of a plastic version of the SE 3. Why?
There may be several reasons:
A plastic case does not fit the premium brand image that Apple is associated with.
Cheap material could weaken the perceived quality of the product – even in the cheaper SE series.
Introducing a new material would mean additional costs for testing, certification, and production.
✅ Aluminum returns to favor
Instead, Apple will most likely stick with the proven material – aluminum, which was already used in the SE 2 and other Apple Watch models. This is very good news for users because:
✅ Aluminum is light, durable, and corrosion-resistant.
✅ It looks good and works well with other Apple devices, like the iPhone or iPad.
✅ It provides a better balance between durability and weight – compared to, for example, stainless steel or titanium in more expensive versions.
Leaks: Apple Watch SE 3 specifications
Although Apple, as usual, remains silent about the details before the official release, leaks from reliable sources – such as analysts from Bloomberg, Ross Young, or services like MacRumors – shed a lot of light on what might be under the hood of the third-generation Apple Watch SE. The new model is expected to be significantly more “pro” than its predecessor, while still maintaining an affordable price.
New processor – performance close to Series 9
One of the key novelties in the Apple Watch SE 3 is expected to be the use of a new processor, probably based on the S9 SiP (System in Package) chip, which debuted in Series 9 in 2023.
Why is this important?
✅ It offers significantly better performance than the S5 chip from SE 2
✅ It enables support for more advanced features of watchOS 12
✅ It contributes to longer battery life
✅ It may support natural language processing features – e.g., faster Siri offline responses
This means that the Apple Watch SE 3 stops being just a “cheaper” choice – and starts being a truly competitive alternative to more expensive models in the same line.
Battery – longer operating time
Although Apple does not disclose the exact battery capacity of its watches, leaks suggest that SE 3 will receive an optimized energy management system. Thanks to a more energy-efficient processor and improvements in watchOS 12, users can expect:
🕓 All-day operation on a single charge (up to 18 hours of mixed use, as per Apple’s standard)
💤 The ability to monitor sleep at night without the need for daily charging
🔌 Faster charging – possibly using the Fast Charge feature (currently available only in Series and Ultra)
Versions: GPS and GPS + Cellular
Apple Watch SE 3 – like its predecessor – is expected to be available in two variants:
GPS – connects to the iPhone via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi
GPS + Cellular – allows making calls, sending messages, and using mobile data without an iPhone
The Cellular version will probably be available only in an aluminum case, similar to previous generations.
Sensors and health features
Although SE 3 will not match the flagship models from the Ultra or Series 11 series in terms of advanced sensors, it will offer a solid set of health features, including:
Heart rate sensor (2nd generation optical)
Fall detection
Car crash detection
SOS alarm
Activity, sleep, and stress tracking
Compass, altimeter, gyroscope, and accelerometer
Although it lacks ECG or blood oxygen measurement (SpO2), for most users, the basic package will be fully sufficient.
watchOS 12 – artificial intelligence and health
The SE 3 watch will debut with the new version of the system – watchOS 12, which will be shown during the WWDC 2025 conference. The system is expected to bring:
Smarter notifications and improved Smart Stack
Potential support for AI to analyze health data
Enhanced Mindfulness app with mood tracking option
Possible support for adaptive workouts, based on user data
Who is the Apple Watch SE 3 for?
5 types of users who will love this watch
The Apple Watch SE 3 is one of the most versatile smartwatches in its class. Who will it bring the most joy to? Meet five types of users for whom this model will be a perfect fit!
👦 “Mom, can I go to school by myself?”
👶 Child or teenager The first watch that gives freedom – and peace of mind to parents.
🔹 Real-time location 🔹 Ability to contact via messages and calls 🔹 School mode and parental control 🔹 Does not need an iPhone thanks to Family Setup
🏃♀️ “I get up, run, close the rings”
🏃 Amateur athlete A smartwatch that keeps up with your pace – without unnecessary frills.
🔹 Precise GPS and workout tracking 🔹 Motivating activity rings 🔹 Durable, lightweight construction 🔹 Works with favorite apps: Nike Run, Apple Fitness+, Strava
📲 “I like Apple, but not too much”
📱 Minimalist with an iPhone You don’t need Ultra to be smart. SE is enough.
🔹 All basic functions: notifications, Apple Pay, calls 🔹 Perfect integration with iOS 🔹 Fast processor and larger screen 🔹 Great price for an Apple product
🎓 “I organize life from my wrist”
🎓 Student or young professional Multitasking, calendar, health – all in one place.
🔹 Smart reminders and day organization 🔹 Compatibility with iCloud, maps, notes 🔹 Stylish design and watch face personalization 🔹 Great value for money
🎁 “I want to buy a gift that won’t end up in a drawer”
🎁 Person looking for a gift Not sure what to buy for a loved one? This watch is a sure bet.
🔹 Universal gift – for any age and gender 🔹 Looks premium, but doesn’t cost a fortune 🔹 Easy to use – even for beginners 🔹 Ideal for iPhone owners
Time to start the countdown to September
The new Apple Watch SE 3 promises to be a really solid refresh of Apple’s budget watch line. A larger screen, new chip, aluminum case (not plastic!), and plenty of health features make it the best “first Apple Watch” for many people – and a great choice for those who want to stay in the ecosystem but don’t need the bells and whistles of the Ultra model.
September 2025 promises to be intense – if you’re planning to buy Apple equipment, it’s worth making a priority list now… and saving up 💸. And if you can’t decide – don’t worry, everything will become clear soon. We’ll keep you updated!
The G7 ThinQ model has been priced at 3499PLN in Poland. The new LG will be offered in pre-sale from June 1 to 15, but as part of it, we can receive quite interesting “gadgets,” which in the initial leaks were supposed to be just additions on the Korean market. You probably already guess what this is about.
A TV for a smartphone?
By purchasing the LG G7 ThinQ in pre-sale at Play network, you can get an LG 43UK6300 TV (whose current value in stores is about 2 thousand zlotys) in the set, of course with the model note ThinQ, which is a hallmark of the new products from the Korean giant, which feature artificial intelligence – they adapt to user behaviors and recognize their speech.
How does it look with other major operators? Unfortunately, we cannot count on such a big “gift,” but a pleasant addition might be a 24-inch computer monitor (which can also function as a TV) LG 24MT49VF.
Pre-sale in retail stores looks different, and a Sphero BB 9E robot will be added to the new acquisition – an ideal solution for Star Wars fans.
However, for everyone who decides to purchase the LG G7 ThinQ on the Polish market, the manufacturer offers a one-year display warranty, which also entitles you to a one-time replacement if you damage it yourself.
LG G7 ThinQ Specifications
Many data from the leaks have been confirmed, namely, among others, a 6.1-inch very bright screen with QHD+ resolution with, of course, a notch, glass back, wireless charging, Snapdragon 845 – basically everything a flagship model should have. Unfortunately, a stronger battery is missing, but here we see stagnation among most manufacturers – the new LG offers only 3000mAh.
Summary
It can be boldly stated that LG has greatly shocked with its basic addition to the smartphone in pre-sale, but this was to be expected in the era of adding, for example, a console in the case of Sony. In terms of size and price, the move by the Koreans will be hard to beat, but we are very curious about what other manufacturers will offer in the future.
A few days ago, Xiaomi unveiled 3 new smartphones: Xiaomi Mi 8 SE, Xiaomi Mi 8, and Xiaomi Mi 8 Explorer Edition. Today, we will focus mostly on the last two.
Mi 8 fully deserves the title of a flagship
The latest devices deserve admiration from the tech world. Mi 8 SE will be an ideal choice when it comes to the mid-range class – it is characterized by an almost perfect price-to-quality ratio. Mi 8 is a worthy competitor to devices like the Huawei P20 or Samsung Galaxy S9.
The last of the presented devices breaks away from the template in design. It is the Explorer Edition that stands out with features like a transparent back, an in-screen fingerprint reader with pressure recognition, and face unlocking.
When choosing between Mi 8 and Mi 8 Explorer Edition, we must be aware that the former will lack some features. Additionally, if you want to buy the SE model, remember that it has a smaller screen by almost 0.4 inches and a slightly weaker Snapdragon 710 processor.
A word about the specifications
The Chinese giant has outdone itself in designing its new phones. The Mi 8’s specifications look very promising. The smartphone has the following dimensions: 154.9 x 74.8 x 7.6 mm and weighs 175 grams. It also features a 6.21-inch AMOLED display with an 18.7:9 aspect ratio. Speaking of the front panel, it’s worth mentioning the resolution. It’s quite modest for 2018 – FULL HD+ (2248 x 1080) with a brightness level of 600 nits.
The Xiaomi Mi 8 runs on Android 8.1 Oreo with the MIUI overlay. The device is powered by a Snapdragon 845 processor (Mi 8 SE by Snapdragon 710) along with Adreno 630. Users will have the choice of 6 or 8 GB of RAM. There are also three built-in storage options: 64, 128, and 256 GB. As for the battery, there is also a distinction. Namely, the Explorer Edition has a 3000 mAh cell, while the Mi 8 has a 3400 mAh capacity (there is also support for Quick Charge 4+).
Regarding the camera, there is a dual lens – 12 Mpx with an f/1.8 aperture and 12 Mpx with an f/2.4 aperture. Here are the main features of the rear lens: optical image stabilization, dual-pixel autofocus, and a portrait mode supported by artificial intelligence. Incidentally, the Mi 8 scored as high as 105 points in the DxOMark test, which is more than the iPhone X. The front camera is 20 Mpx with an f/2.0 aperture.
Other features related to the device itself include: Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, dual-band GPS module (support for L1 and L5), GPS, GLONASS, dual SIM, NFC, fingerprint reader/face scanner, and USB-C port.
Mi 8 Explorer Edition deserves a separate piece
The management of the Chinese giant has repeatedly emphasized that the Explorer Edition is one of their most advanced smartphones. Aside from the technical parameters, the device stands out at first glance from the competition. This is, of course, about the transparent back, where the components used in the phone are visible.
While discussing this device, one cannot forget about the fingerprint reader, which is embedded in the front display. Additionally, a system known from iPhones, i.e., pressure recognition, has been applied here. Xiaomi boasts at every turn that this sensor generates a very low error rate, and its operation is lightning-fast.
The last thing worth mentioning is the camera system, which we first saw in the iPhone X. Xiaomi couldn’t be worse, so it developed its own “Face ID.” Thanks to it, we will be able to unlock the device as well as create animated emojis (something similar to Apple’s Animoji). It’s worth knowing that the Mi 8 Explorer Edition is the first Android smartphone that allows for three-dimensional face scanning.
Xiaomi Mi 8 – when and for how much can we buy it?
Once again, the Chinese giant has shown that it is capable of designing and producing a decent device for a reasonable price. Below we present the price list of the Xiaomi Mi 8.
Xiaomi Mi 8 Explorer Edition 8 GB, 128 GB built-in memory – 3699 yuan (approx. 2200-2500 zlotys)
The Mi 8 and Mi 8 SE models will be available for sale from June 5-8. Initially, only in China. The price of the cheapest version and the 8 SE model is not yet known. The availability date of the Explorer Edition has not yet been disclosed.
Do you like unique solutions and at the same time want to protect your device? Spigen, together with users, has prepared an interesting product that references the design of the first iPhone. This is the limited edition Classic One model for iPhone X. You can find it below.
