Author: Into Droid

Samsung Galaxy M31

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The Samsung Galaxy M31 is a key release in Samsung’s mid-range M series lineup, known for offering substantial battery life and value for money. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy M31:

Overview:

Introduced in early 2020, the Samsung Galaxy M31 is a successor to the Galaxy M30s. It builds upon the foundation set by its predecessor, focusing on battery life, camera capabilities, and an AMOLED display, all while maintaining an attractive price point.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with Samsung’s One UI 2.0 on top.
  2. Display: 6.4-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels.
  3. Processor: Exynos 9611.
  4. Memory: Options of 6/8 GB RAM with 64/128 GB internal storage, expandable via a microSD slot.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 8 MP ultrawide lens, 5 MP macro sensor, and a 5 MP depth sensor. The front camera is a 32 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: A massive 6000 mAh non-removable battery with 15W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a plastic build with a gradient finish.

Pros:

  1. Battery Life: The 6000 mAh battery is undoubtedly the device’s standout feature, ensuring the phone can easily last more than a day, even with heavy use.
  2. Display: The Super AMOLED display provides vibrant colors and deep blacks, making it ideal for media consumption.
  3. Camera Capabilities: The 64 MP primary sensor captures detailed images, and the versatility of the quad-camera setup is commendable for its price point.
  4. Value for Money: Given its features, the device offers excellent value, especially for those prioritizing battery life and display quality.

Cons:

  1. Performance: The Exynos 9611 is decent for daily tasks but might not be the best for intensive gaming or heavy multitasking, especially when compared to some competitors.
  2. Build Quality: The device uses a plastic build, which, while durable, might not feel as premium as some metal or glass competitors.
  3. Charging Speed: Despite its large battery, the device supports only 15W fast charging, which means charging from 0 to 100% can take a while.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price segment, the Samsung Galaxy M31 faced competition from:

  • Redmi Note 9 Pro: Offering a glass build, Snapdragon 720G chipset, and a versatile camera setup.
  • Realme 6 Pro: With its 90Hz IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 720G, and dual front cameras.
  • POCO X2: Known for its 120Hz display, Snapdragon 730G, and 64 MP primary camera.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy M31 was announced in February 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Bloat: Some users found the pre-installed apps and occasional ads in the UI to be a bit intrusive.
  2. Weight: Due to its large battery, the device is on the heavier side, which might not be comfortable for everyone.
  3. Camera Low-Light Performance: While the camera performs well in good lighting, it can struggle in low-light scenarios.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy M31 is a strong contender in the mid-range segment, especially for users who prioritize battery life and display quality. While it has areas that could be improved, such as performance and build quality, the overall package is compelling for its price. The device further solidified Samsung’s position in the competitive mid-range smartphone market, offering a reliable alternative to Chinese brands.

Realme X50

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The Realme X50 was one of Realme’s early entries into the 5G smartphone market, aiming to offer next-generation connectivity at a more affordable price point. Here’s an in-depth review of the Realme X50:

Overview:

Launched in early 2020, the Realme X50 was positioned as a mid-range 5G smartphone, emphasizing performance, camera capabilities, and a high-refresh-rate display, all while maintaining a competitive price.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with Realme UI on top.
  2. Display: 6.57-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SDM765 Snapdragon 765G 5G.
  4. Memory: Options of 6/8/12 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 12 MP telephoto lens, 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro sensor. The front features a dual-camera setup with a 16 MP primary shooter and an 8 MP ultrawide lens.
  6. Battery: 4200 mAh non-removable battery with 30W VOOC fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, 5G connectivity, and a glass build with a reflective finish.

Pros:

  1. 5G Connectivity: The Snapdragon 765G chipset offers integrated 5G, making the device future-proof in terms of network connectivity.
  2. Display: The 120Hz refresh rate ensures a smooth user experience, especially while scrolling and gaming.
  3. Camera Capabilities: The versatile camera setup, especially with its telephoto and ultrawide sensors, offers flexibility in photography.
  4. Fast Charging: The 30W VOOC charging can quickly juice up the battery, providing a decent screen-on time.
  5. Performance: The Snapdragon 765G, combined with ample RAM options, ensures smooth performance for daily tasks and moderate gaming.

Cons:

  1. No AMOLED Display: Unlike some competitors, the device uses an IPS LCD, which might not offer as vibrant colors or deep blacks as an AMOLED panel.
  2. No Expandable Storage: The device lacks a microSD card slot, limiting storage expansion options.
  3. No 3.5mm Jack: The device omits the traditional headphone jack, which might be a downside for some users.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Realme X50 faced competition from:

  • Xiaomi Mi 10 Lite 5G: Offering an AMOLED display, Snapdragon 765G, and a similar camera setup.
  • OnePlus Nord: With its AMOLED display, Snapdragon 765G, and OxygenOS experience.
  • Vivo X50 Lite: Known for its AMOLED display, Snapdragon 765G, and unique gimbal camera stabilization.

Launch Date:

The Realme X50 was announced in January 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: While Realme UI offers a plethora of features, some users found occasional stutters or inconsistencies, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Camera Processing: Some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions or with the macro sensor.
  3. Build Quality: While the device has a premium feel, the glossy back is prone to fingerprints and smudges.

Conclusion:

The Realme X50 is a commendable effort by Realme to bring 5G connectivity to a broader audience. With its high-refresh-rate display, versatile camera setup, and future-proof chipset, it offers a balanced package for its price. While there are areas of improvement, especially in terms of display technology and software optimization, the device is a strong contender in the mid-range 5G smartphone market.

Huawei Mate X Series

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Overview:

The Huawei Mate X series represents Huawei’s ambitious venture into the foldable smartphone arena. This lineup has been a testament to Huawei’s commitment to innovation and design, with each iteration showcasing improvements and refinements.

Key Models:

  • Huawei Mate X (2019): The trailblazer of the series, the Mate X was unveiled at MWC 2019 on February 25, 2019. It was initially scheduled for a June 2019 launch but was postponed to November 2019 for extensive testing, especially in light of the challenges faced by Samsung’s Galaxy Fold.
  • Huawei Mate Xs (2020): Announced on February 24, 2020, this model was a hardware revision of the original Mate X. It featured a more durable display, an improved hinge mechanism, a redesigned cooling system, the Kirin 990 5G SoC, and Android 10 with EMUI 10.

Features and Specifications:

  • Design: The Mate X series is characterized by its outward-folding design, allowing for a seamless transition between phone and tablet modes.
  • Display: The original Mate X featured an 8-inch OLED display that, when folded, resulted in a 6.6-inch main display and a 6.38-inch rear display.
  • Performance: Powered by the HiSilicon Kirin 980, the Mate X was complemented by 8 GB of RAM and 512 GB of UFS 2.1 storage.
  • Camera: The camera bar on the Mate X housed a 40 MP main lens, a 16 MP wide-angle lens, an 8 MP telephoto lens, and a time-of-flight sensor.
  • Battery: The device was equipped with a 4500 mAh battery, supporting Huawei’s Supercharge at 55W.

Pros:

  • Innovative Design: The outward-folding mechanism of the Mate X series offers a unique user experience, differentiating it from other foldables in the market.
  • High-End Specifications: The Mate X series is packed with top-tier specs, ensuring a premium user experience.
  • Camera Capabilities: Huawei’s expertise in smartphone photography shines through in the Mate X series, offering versatile shooting options.

Cons:

  • Durability Concerns: The foldable nature of the device raises questions about its long-term durability, especially the screen.
  • Price: The Mate X series comes with a hefty price tag, positioning it in the premium segment of the market.
  • Software Limitations: Due to ongoing tensions between the US and China, newer models might lack Google services, which could be a deal-breaker for many users.

Comparison to Other Technologies:

The Huawei Mate X series stands in direct competition with other foldable devices, notably Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. While both offer unique designs and features, the Mate X series differentiates itself with its outward-folding mechanism and Huawei’s proprietary software and hardware integrations.

Common Issues/Problems:

The primary concern with the Mate X series, similar to other foldables, revolves around the durability of the foldable screen. Some users have reported issues with the screen malfunctioning after prolonged use.

Conclusion:

The Huawei Mate X series is a bold representation of the future of smartphones, blending innovation with functionality. While it offers a plethora of features and a unique design, potential buyers should be aware of the associated durability concerns and software limitations. For those willing to embrace the foldable experience and Huawei’s ecosystem, the Mate X series is a compelling choice.

Motorola Moto G 5G

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The Moto G 5G is part of Motorola’s G series, which has traditionally aimed to provide solid smartphones at an affordable price point. The Moto G 5G, as the name suggests, brings 5G connectivity to the mid-range segment. Here’s an in-depth review of the Moto G 5G:

Overview:

Launched in 2020, the Moto G 5G is positioned as a mid-range device within Motorola’s lineup, aiming to offer users a taste of 5G connectivity without a premium price tag.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with a near-stock Android experience.
  2. Display: 6.7-inch LTPS IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G 5G.
  4. Memory: Options of 4/6 GB RAM with 64/128 GB internal storage, expandable via a microSD slot.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor, 8 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro camera. The front camera is a 16 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 5000 mAh non-removable battery with 20W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, water-repellent design, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Pros:

  1. 5G Connectivity: The Snapdragon 750G chipset brings 5G connectivity to the mid-range segment, making the device somewhat future-proof.
  2. Stock Android Experience: Motorola’s near-stock Android experience is clean and bloat-free, ensuring smooth performance and timely updates.
  3. Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery ensures long-lasting usage, making it suitable for users who are on the go.
  4. Value for Money: Given its specifications and the addition of 5G, the device offers good value for its price.
  5. Expandable Storage: The inclusion of a microSD slot provides flexibility for users who need more storage.

Cons:

  1. Camera Performance: While the primary sensor is decent for well-lit scenarios, the overall camera performance can be inconsistent, especially in low light.
  2. Build Quality: The device uses a plastic back, which might not feel as premium as devices with glass or metal builds.
  3. Lack of High Refresh Rate: Unlike some competitors, the Moto G 5G sticks to a standard 60Hz refresh rate.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Moto G 5G faced competition from:

  • Realme 7 Pro: Offering a Super AMOLED display, Snapdragon 720G, and 65W fast charging.
  • Redmi Note 9 Pro Max: With its Snapdragon 720G, 64 MP primary camera, and a 5020 mAh battery.
  • Samsung Galaxy A42 5G: Featuring an AMOLED display, Snapdragon 750G, and a quad-camera setup.

Launch Date:

The Moto G 5G was announced in November 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Updates: While Motorola promises timely updates, some users reported delays in receiving software updates or patches.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is decent, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Speaker Quality: Some users mentioned that the single bottom-firing speaker lacked depth and richness in sound.

Conclusion:

The Moto G 5G is a commendable offering in the mid-range segment, especially for users who are looking to experience 5G connectivity without spending a fortune. With its reliable performance, clean software experience, and decent battery life, it provides a balanced smartphone experience for its price. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the camera setup and build quality, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who prioritize 5G connectivity and a clean software experience, the Moto G 5G is a worthy contender in the mid-range market.