Category: Hardware

OnePlus 9

Into Droid 5 Comments
Oneplus 9
Oneplus 9

The OnePlus 9 was a significant release for OnePlus, emphasizing its partnership with Hasselblad for camera improvements. Here’s an in-depth review of the OnePlus 9:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the OnePlus 9 was part of OnePlus’s continued effort to offer flagship-level specifications and features at a competitive price point. The device, alongside its Pro sibling, was particularly marketed for its camera capabilities, thanks to a partnership with the renowned camera brand, Hasselblad.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, overlaid with OnePlus’s OxygenOS 11.
  2. Display: 6.55-inch Fluid AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888.
  4. Memory: Options of 8/12 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor, 50 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP monochrome sensor. A 16 MP front camera. The camera system was co-developed with Hasselblad, emphasizing color accuracy and improvements in software processing.
  6. Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with Warp Charge 65T fast charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, 5G connectivity, stereo speakers, and an aluminum frame.

Pros:

  1. Performance: The Snapdragon 888, combined with OxygenOS, ensured top-tier performance, making the device suitable for everything from daily tasks to gaming.
  2. Display: The 120Hz Fluid AMOLED display offered vibrant colors, deep blacks, and smooth animations.
  3. Fast Charging: Warp Charge 65T provided a rapid charging experience, with the ability to charge the device from 1% to 100% in around 29 minutes.
  4. Camera Improvements: The partnership with Hasselblad brought noticeable improvements in color accuracy and overall image processing.
  5. OxygenOS: Known for its near-stock experience, speed, and customization features, OxygenOS was a highlight for many users.

Cons:

  1. Lack of Telephoto Lens: Unlike its Pro sibling, the OnePlus 9 lacked a dedicated telephoto lens.
  2. No Official IP Rating: While the device had some form of water resistance, it lacked an official IP rating for water and dust resistance (except for T-Mobile’s variant in the US).
  3. Plastic Frame: The frame, although looking metallic, was made of plastic, which felt less premium compared to the Pro version.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2021, the OnePlus 9 faced competition from various flagship devices:

  • Samsung Galaxy S21: Samsung’s flagship with its Dynamic AMOLED display, versatile camera system, and One UI software.
  • iPhone 12: Apple’s offering with its A14 Bionic chip, OLED display, and iOS ecosystem.
  • Google Pixel 5: Known for its clean software, consistent updates, and camera capabilities.

Launch Date:

The OnePlus 9 was announced in March 2021 and released later that month.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Camera Expectations: While the Hasselblad partnership brought improvements, some users felt the camera system still lagged behind some competitors, especially in terms of versatility.
  2. Heating Issues: Some users reported the device getting warm, especially during intensive tasks or prolonged camera usage.
  3. Software Bugs: As with any device, some users encountered occasional software glitches, though OnePlus was relatively quick with updates to address reported issues.

Conclusion:

The OnePlus 9 continued the brand’s tradition of offering high-end specifications at a competitive price point. With its focus on camera improvements through the Hasselblad partnership, it aimed to address one of the longstanding criticisms of OnePlus devices. While it made strides in this area, some felt there was still room for improvement. Overall, the OnePlus 9 offered a balanced package of performance, design, and features, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a flagship experience without the highest flagship price.

Samsung Galaxy A52

Into Droid 4 Comments
Samsung Galaxy A52
Samsung Galaxy A52

Overview:

The Samsung Galaxy A52 is a mid-range Android-based smartphone developed and manufactured by Samsung Electronics, forming a part of its popular Galaxy A series. The device was announced on March 17, 2021, and serves as the successor to the Galaxy A51. It was later followed by an upgraded variant, the Galaxy A52s, in August 2021.

Features and Specifications:

  • Design: The Galaxy A52 boasts a sleek design with matte color options, a departure from the glossy gradient finishes of its predecessor. It features an Infinity-O display with a central cutout for the selfie camera.
  • Display: The device sports a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, offering a 90 Hz refresh rate for the 4G model and a 120 Hz refresh rate for the 5G and “s” models.
  • Performance: Depending on the variant, the A52 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 720G, Snapdragon 750G 5G, or Snapdragon 778G 5G chipsets.
  • Camera: The A52 features a quad-camera setup with a 64 MP main sensor, 12 MP ultrawide lens, and two 5 MP sensors for macro and depth functionalities.
  • Battery: The smartphone is equipped with a 4500 mAh battery, supporting 25W fast charging. However, the box includes a 15W charger, necessitating a separate purchase for the 25W charger.
  • Storage and RAM: Depending on the model and region, the A52 offers configurations ranging from 4 GB to 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB to 256 GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD.
  • Software: The device initially shipped with Android 11 and Samsung’s One UI 3.1. As of early 2023, it has received an update to Android 13 and One UI 5.0.
  • Other Features: The A52 includes a 3.5mm audio jack, stereo speakers, an under-display fingerprint scanner, and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance.

Pros:

  • Versatile Camera: The quad-camera setup offers a range of shooting options, catering to various photography needs.
  • Smooth Display: The high refresh rate ensures a smooth and responsive user experience.
  • Durable Design: The IP67 rating provides added peace of mind against accidental splashes and dust.

Cons:

  • Charger Limitation: The inclusion of a 15W charger in the box, despite the device supporting 25W fast charging, can be a point of contention for some users.
  • Software Concerns: While the device has received updates, some users might find Samsung’s One UI to be bloated compared to stock Android.
  • Mid-Range Performance: While the Snapdragon chipsets offer decent performance, they might not be on par with flagship devices in terms of speed and multitasking.

Comparison to Other Technologies:

The Samsung Galaxy A52 competes directly with other mid-range smartphones in the market. Its primary competitors include devices from brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo. While the A52 offers a balanced set of features, its camera capabilities and Samsung’s brand reputation give it an edge in certain markets.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy A52 is a well-rounded mid-range smartphone that offers a blend of performance, camera capabilities, and design. While it has its set of drawbacks, it stands as a compelling option for users seeking a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank.

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

Into Droid 4 Comments

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, unveiled in January 2021, represents Samsung’s pinnacle of smartphone technology for the year. As the flagship of the S21 series, it was designed to offer the best of everything Samsung could muster, especially in terms of display and camera capabilities. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra:

Overview:

The Galaxy S21 Ultra was Samsung’s answer to the growing demand for versatile camera systems, top-tier performance, and outstanding displays. With its refined design and a host of features, it aimed to set the standard for premium smartphones in 2021.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with One UI 3.1 based on Android 11.
  2. Display: 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate (adaptive) and HDR10+.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 (in the USA) or Samsung Exynos 2100 (in other regions).
  4. Memory: Options ranging from 12 GB to 16 GB RAM with 128 GB, 256 GB, or 512 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Quad-camera setup with a 108 MP primary sensor, two telephoto lenses (10 MP periscope with 10x optical zoom and 10 MP with 3x optical zoom), and a 12 MP ultrawide sensor. The front camera is a 40 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 5000 mAh non-removable battery with 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, IP68 dust/water resistance, 5G connectivity, stereo speakers, S Pen support (sold separately), and Bluetooth 5.2.

Pros:

  1. Display: The 120Hz QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED display was among the best in the industry, offering deep blacks, vibrant colors, and smooth animations.
  2. Camera Versatility: The S21 Ultra’s camera system was one of its standout features, offering significant zoom capabilities and improved low-light performance.
  3. Performance: Whether it’s the Snapdragon 888 or the Exynos 2100, the device delivered top-notch performance across all tasks.
  4. S Pen Support: For the first time in the S series, the S21 Ultra offered support for the S Pen, a feature previously reserved for the Note series.
  5. Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery ensured a full day of use for most users, even with intensive tasks.

Cons:

  1. Price: The Galaxy S21 Ultra commanded a premium price, making it one of the more expensive mainstream smartphones at launch.
  2. Size and Weight: The device was quite hefty, which might not be comfortable for all users, especially for prolonged one-handed use.
  3. No MicroSD Card Slot: Unlike its predecessor, the S21 Ultra did away with the microSD card slot, which was a disappointment for some users.
  4. Charging Speed: While 25W charging is decent, it’s slower than the competition, some of which offer 65W or even faster charging speeds.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its segment, the S21 Ultra faced competition from:

  • iPhone 12 Pro Max: With its Super Retina XDR OLED display, Apple A14 Bionic chip, and a triple-camera system with LiDAR.
  • OnePlus 9 Pro: Offering a Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 888, and a camera system developed in partnership with Hasselblad.
  • Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra: Featuring an AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 888, and a comprehensive camera setup with a secondary rear display.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra was announced in January 2021 and became available shortly after.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Exynos vs. Snapdragon: As with previous Samsung flagships, there was a debate about the performance and efficiency differences between the Exynos and Snapdragon variants.
  2. Camera Autofocus: While improved from the S20 Ultra, some users still reported occasional autofocus inconsistencies.
  3. Software Bugs: Some users experienced minor software glitches, though these were generally addressed in subsequent updates.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra was a testament to Samsung’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of smartphone technology. With arguably the best display in the business, a versatile camera system, and a host of other features, it was a compelling choice for those in the market for a premium smartphone. While it had its set of challenges, especially concerning its price and the omission of certain features like the microSD slot, it was hard to argue against the sheer technological prowess of the device. For those seeking the best that Samsung had to offer in early 2021, the S21 Ultra was hard to beat.

Sony Xperia Pro

Into Droid Leave a comment

The Sony Xperia Pro is a unique offering from Sony, designed with professionals, especially content creators and broadcasters, in mind. It combines the features of a high-end smartphone with functionalities tailored for professional use. Here’s an in-depth review of the Sony Xperia Pro:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Xperia Pro is Sony’s attempt to cater to a niche market of professionals who require advanced connectivity and multimedia capabilities. It’s not just a smartphone; it’s a tool designed for specific professional use-cases.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, upgradable to later versions.
  2. Display: 6.5-inch 4K OLED with a resolution of 1644 x 3840 pixels, supporting HDR BT.2020 and a 21:9 aspect ratio.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865.
  4. Memory: 12 GB RAM with 512 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 12 MP primary sensor, 12 MP telephoto lens, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens, similar to the Xperia 1 II. The front camera is an 8 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4000 mAh non-removable battery with USB Type-C fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP65/IP68 dust/water resistance, 5G mmWave connectivity, HDMI input (to use the phone as an external monitor for professional cameras), and dual front-facing stereo speakers.

Pros:

  1. Professional Connectivity: The Xperia Pro’s standout feature is its 5G mmWave connectivity, which allows for ultra-fast data transfer, making it ideal for broadcasting and streaming high-quality content in real-time.
  2. HDMI Input: This feature lets professionals use the Xperia Pro as an external monitor for their cameras, providing a high-resolution viewfinder on the go.
  3. High-Resolution Display: The 4K OLED display offers sharp visuals, vibrant colors, and is perfect for multimedia consumption and professional use.
  4. Robust Build: The device is built with durability in mind, featuring a polycarbonate back that can withstand the rigors of professional use.
  5. Camera Capabilities: The camera system, while similar to the Xperia 1 II, is enhanced by the phone’s professional features, making it suitable for high-quality content creation.

Cons:

  1. Price: The Xperia Pro comes with a hefty price tag, reflecting its niche target audience and professional features.
  2. Weight and Size: Given its robust build and added features, the device is relatively heavy and might not be as comfortable for regular day-to-day use.
  3. Processor: While the Snapdragon 865 is a powerful chipset, it wasn’t the latest available at the time of the Xperia Pro’s release.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

Given its niche target audience, the Xperia Pro doesn’t have many direct competitors. However, in terms of flagship smartphones:

  • Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra: Offers a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Snapdragon 888 (or Exynos 2100), and a versatile camera setup with a 108 MP primary sensor.
  • iPhone 12 Pro Max: Features a Super Retina XDR OLED display, Apple A14 Bionic chip, and a triple camera system with LiDAR.
  • OnePlus 8 Pro: Comes with a Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 865, and a quad-camera system.

Launch Date:

The Sony Xperia Pro was announced in February 2020 but became available in early 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Price Justification: Given its high price, many users and reviewers questioned if the professional features justified the cost, especially for non-professionals.
  2. Battery Life: The 4000 mAh battery, while decent, might not last long under continuous professional use, especially with 5G mmWave and HDMI functionalities in play.

Conclusion:

The Sony Xperia Pro is a specialized tool designed for a specific audience. For content creators, broadcasters, and professionals who require advanced connectivity and multimedia capabilities on the go, it offers a unique package that few other devices can match. However, for the average consumer, many of its standout features might be overkill, especially considering its premium price point. It’s a testament to Sony’s commitment to catering to niche markets and integrating technologies from its various divisions into a single product.