The smartphone industry is abuzz with new device unboxings, detailed leaks, confirmed launch dates, and strategic shifts from manufacturers. Recent developments include the unboxing of Xiaomi's 17 Ultra, detailed specifications for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 series, and confirmations of launches from other brands like RedMagic and Honor. Simultaneously, Asus has announced its departure from smartphone production, while OnePlus has addressed rumors regarding its future operations.
Upcoming Smartphone Launches and Unboxings
Xiaomi 17 Ultra Unboxed
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra, developed in collaboration with Leica, has been unboxed. The device features a dual-tone finish, which draws inspiration from Leica cameras, and includes the brand's signature Red Dot logo.
The retail package contains:
- A 100W charger
- A braided USB-A to USB-C cable
- A protective case
- A metal Leica lens cap
- A red wrist strap
- A polishing cloth
The phone itself incorporates a knurled metal frame and a Control Ring around its camera island, which mechanically rotates to facilitate zooming between different focal lengths and cameras.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Series: Leaks and Launch Details
The Samsung Galaxy S26 and S26 Ultra have appeared in Geekbench listings ahead of their anticipated launch on February 25. Both models are listed with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC, exhibiting variations in clock speeds.
- The Galaxy S26 Ultra's chip features two cores at 4.19GHz and six at 3.63GHz.
- In contrast, the regular S26's chip has two cores boosted to 4.74GHz and the remaining six at 3.63GHz.
The S26 Ultra was also observed in an aramid fiber case, suggesting a redesigned camera island and more rounded corners.
The launch of the S26 series is scheduled for February 25. The pre-order period is set from February 26 to March 4, with a pre-sale phase from March 5 to March 10. General sales are slated to begin on March 11. Initial reports indicated four color options for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, though additional colors are now expected.
Other Anticipated Device Launches
- Honor Magic8 Pro Air: Honor has unveiled this model, featuring a 6.3-inch display and a 5,500mAh battery. Its camera configuration includes a 50MP selfie camera, a 50MP ultrawide lens, a 64MP zoom lens, and a 50MP main camera.
- RedMagic 11 Air: This device is confirmed to launch on January 20. It is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC and an integrated active cooling fan.
- vivo V70 Series: The V70 and V70 Elite are rumored for a mid-February launch in India, with the V70 FE expected to follow later.
Future Device Rumors and Specifications
Xiaomi 17 Series Developments
Xiaomi's reported 17 Air model, which was anticipated as a competitor to the iPhone Air, has reportedly been canceled. It was expected to be 5.5mm thin, feature dual cameras with a 200MP main sensor, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, and a 6.59-inch screen.
Expanding the 17 series, the Xiaomi 17 Max is expected to feature an 8,000 mAh battery, 100W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip.
iPhone 18 Series Projections
Four models are expected in the iPhone 18 series, which are anticipated to retain current display sizes. The 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max models are tipped to feature under-display cutouts for the Face ID system. These Pro models are also expected to incorporate LTPO+ OLED displays, a technology anticipated to improve efficiency and facilitate the concealment of the IR camera for the Face ID system behind the display, potentially leading to smaller pill-shaped notches.
Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra Camera Rumors
Rumors suggest the Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra will feature an updated 200MP main camera, utilizing the ISOCELL S5KHP6 sensor. While the sensor is expected to maintain the same physical size as the ISOCELL HP2 found in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, it is anticipated to incorporate newer technology for improved output.
Samsung Galaxy A57 Details
TENAA listings have revealed specifications for the Samsung Galaxy A57. The device is equipped with a 6.6-inch screen, a processor operating at up to 2.9GHz, and an Exynos 1680 SoC. Its camera configuration includes a 50MP main sensor, 12MP and 5MP secondary cameras, and a 12MP selfie camera.
Nothing Phone (4a) Series Updates
The Nothing Phone (4a) series has been confirmed to switch to UFS 3.1 storage. The series is also likely to feature higher starting prices.
iQOO 15 Ultra
The iQOO 15 Ultra is set to incorporate the largest physical fan on a smartphone. The device achieved an AnTuTu score of 4.5 million in performance benchmarks.
Company News
Asus Exits Smartphone Manufacturing
Asus has confirmed its decision to cease smartphone manufacturing operations. The company plans to reallocate its resources towards research and development in commercial PCs and physical AI technologies, including robotics and smart glasses. Asus stated that support for its existing smartphone models will be maintained.
OnePlus Addresses Shutdown Rumors
OnePlus has officially denied recent reports concerning a potential shutdown of the company. The brand affirmed that it will continue its operations.