You know something extraordinary is happening when a single company wins 41 Red Dot Design Awards across five completely different categories in one year. ASUS didn’t just collect these awards like trading cards; they earned recognition from 43 international design experts for solving real problems across smartphones, laptops, displays, and even backpacks. The Zenfone 12 Ultra alone would have made headlines with its gimbal-stabilized camera that turns shaky vacation videos into smooth cinematic footage. But that’s just the beginning of this story. We’re talking about gaming phones that survive military testing while looking sophisticated enough for boardrooms, OLED monitors calibrated specifically for photographers who can’t afford color shifts, and mini PCs powerful enough to replace full towers yet small enough to hide behind your monitor. The real question isn’t how ASUS won so many awards, but rather how they managed to excel in categories where specialized companies usually dominate. How does the same company that makes RGB gaming keyboards also create color-accurate displays that professional photographers trust?

Designer: ASUS

Three Smartphones That Each Solve Different Problems

The smartphone wins perfectly demonstrate ASUS’s understanding that different users need fundamentally different devices. Take the Zenfone 12 Ultra, which tackles the universal problem of shaky photos and videos with actual hardware rather than just software tricks. Its 6-Axis Hybrid Gimbal Stabilizer 4.0 sounds like technical overkill until you see the results. Walking videos that normally resemble earthquake footage suddenly become smooth, tracking shots. Low-light photos that would require a tripod become possible handheld. The 50MP Sony Lytia 700 sensor benefits from this stability in ways that go beyond specs, paired with a 32MP telephoto offering 3x optical zoom and a 13MP ultrawide for versatility. ASUS wrapped this technology in a 220g body featuring 100% recycled aluminum and silky matte glass that actually resists fingerprints, addressing another daily annoyance we’ve all accepted as inevitable.

The ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro approach mobile design from a completely different angle, prioritizing gaming performance without sacrificing daily usability. Both models feature IP68 water resistance, which you rarely see in gaming phones because manufacturers assume gamers baby their devices. The 185Hz E6 AMOLED display with 720Hz touch sampling delivers response times that competitive mobile gamers need, while 2500 nits peak brightness means you can see the screen outdoors. The Pro model goes further with up to 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, as mobile games are becoming increasingly large. What’s clever here is the integration of Dirac Virtuo spatial sound and Qualcomm aptX Lossless, recognizing that hearing enemy footsteps matters as much as seeing them. The 5800mAh battery with 65W charging keeps sessions going, while the customizable AniMe Vision display on the back adds personality without going full RGB circus.

Gaming Laptops That Don’t Scream “I Live in My Mom’s Basement”

The laptop category reveals that ASUS is solving a problem many professionals face: wanting gaming performance without looking like they’ve brought a spaceship to the office. The TUF Gaming A14 represents their first 14-inch gaming laptop, and at 1.46 kg, it fits in a standard laptop bag. Running AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processors with RTX 4060 graphics, this machine delivers legitimate gaming performance through a 165Hz QHD+ (2560×1600) display that’s sharp enough for spreadsheets and fast enough for shooters. The military-grade durability means it survives daily commutes, addressing the reality that gaming laptops need to handle more than just desk duty.

The ROG FLOW Z13 takes versatility to extremes as a 2-in-1 gaming tablet that sounds impossible until you use it. The 13.4-inch 2560×1600 touchscreen runs at 180Hz, powered by AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processors with up to 128GB RAM. At $2,099, it’s not cheap, but it replaces multiple devices. Use it as a tablet for digital art, prop it up for gaming sessions, or connect an external GPU for desktop performance when needed. The form factor solves real problems for creators who game and gamers who create, eliminating the need to choose between specialized devices.

Meanwhile, the ROG Strix Scar 16 and 18 embrace traditional gaming laptop design but elevate it with ROG Nebula HDR Display technology. These machines pack Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processors and up to RTX 5090 Laptop GPUs, delivering 2.5K resolution at 240Hz through Mini LED backlighting. The tool-less upgrade design acknowledges that gamers want to upgrade components over time, while up to 64GB DDR5 RAM ensures these laptops won’t become obsolete next year.

Consumer Laptops That Understand Consumer Needs

ASUS’s consumer laptop wins show they’re paying attention to how people use computers. The Vivobook 14 and 16 Flip models embrace the 2-in-1 concept with 360-degree hinges and OLED touchscreens, powered by Intel Core Ultra 7 processors. At 1.69cm thick and 1.5kg, these machines prove that convertibles don’t need to be chunky. The Vivobook Classic Series strips away gimmicks to focus on reliability and value, while the ASUS V16 provides 16-inch productivity without the bulk typically associated with larger screens.

The Zenbook S 14 and S 16 represent ASUS’s premium ultrabook vision, featuring Intel Core Ultra processors with Copilot+ PC capabilities. These machines balance performance with portability, using premium materials and finishes that justify their positioning. But the real standout is the Zenbook A14, which earned recognition as the world’s lightest 14-inch Copilot+ PC at just 2.18 pounds. Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors, it delivers up to 32 hours of battery life thanks to ARM efficiency. The 14-inch OLED display (1920×1200) with 100% DCI-P3 coverage provides color accuracy typically reserved for much more expensive machines, while the Ceraluminum construction creates a premium feel in the $899-$1,099 range.

Business Laptops Built for Real Business Use

The commercial wins reveal ASUS’s understanding of what IT departments and business users need. The ExpertBook P5 represents their flagship business machine, powered by Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) with up to 120 total platform TOPS of AI performance. Weighing just 1.29 kg, it packs a 2.5K 144Hz anti-glare display and offers up to 28 hours of battery life. The inclusion of ASUS AI ExpertMeet provides intelligent noise cancellation and real-time transcription with on-device processing, addressing privacy concerns while adding genuine utility for remote workers.

The ExpertBook B3 takes a different approach with its 16-inch display and connectivity focus. At 1.78kg, it includes features business users request: optional 5G LTE, Wi-Fi 6E, dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, and smart card readers. The 85% screen-to-body ratio maximizes working space, while MIL-STD-810H durability testing ensures it survives the reality of business travel and daily office use.

All-in-Ones and Desktops for Different Tribes

The desktop category spans from space-saving all-in-ones to gaming powerhouses. The AiO VM6 Series and ExpertCenter AiO P4 series represent ASUS’s approach to integrated computing, ideal for reception areas, home offices, or anywhere cable management is a concern. These systems prove that all-in-ones don’t need to compromise on performance or upgradeability.

Gaming desktops are split between the TUF Gaming T5 series, which emphasizes durability and value, and the ROG G7 series, designed for enthusiasts who seek maximum performance with premium aesthetics. These systems recognize that not everyone wants to build their own PC, offering pre-configured options that cater to their target audiences.

The Mini PC Renaissance Nobody Expected

Perhaps the most interesting wins come from ASUS’s commitment to mini PCs, a category that most companies abandoned. The ExpertCenter PN54 packs an AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 processor with 45+ NPU TOPS in a 0.5L chassis, complete with six USB ports, dual 2.5G LAN, and Wi-Fi 7. This isn’t a streaming box; it’s a legitimate workstation that happens to fit in the palm of your hand.

The NUC 15 Pro and NUC 15 Pro+ take it a step further with Intel Core Ultra 7/9 processors (Series 2), up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM, and support for four 4K displays simultaneously. The tool-less upgradability means these systems can evolve with your needs, while thoughtful port selection eliminates the dongle mess that plagues other compact systems. What earned recognition was the thermal management that keeps these systems quiet under load, solving the jet engine problem that traditionally plagued small form factor PCs.

Displays That Serve Their Actual Users

ASUS’s monitor wins reveal a deep understanding of different user needs. The ProArt Display PA27UCGE and PA32UCE are designed exclusively for color accuracy, featuring built-in motorized colorimeters and hardware calibration. These displays deliver 98% DCI-P3 coverage with Delta E<1 accuracy at 160Hz refresh rates and 600 nits brightness, specifications that matter to photographers and video editors who can’t afford color shifts between devices.

The ProArt Display OLED series brings OLED technology to professional workflows where perfect blacks and infinite contrast translate to better creative decisions. ASUS prioritized burn-in protection and color accuracy over gaming features, showing they understand professional priorities.

Gaming gets serious attention with the ROG Swift OLED series. The PG32UCDM features a 32-inch 4K QD-OLED display with a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time, while the PG27AQDP achieves refresh rates of up to 480Hz at 1440p. Custom heatsinks and OLED Care+ features address burn-in concerns, proving ASUS understands the hesitation around OLED for desktop use.

The ZenScreen Duo OLED MQ149CD offers dual portable screens in one device, ideal for presentations where you need to display content while keeping notes private. The ZenScreen Smart MS27UC and MS32UC build smart TV functionality directly into monitors, eliminating streaming device clutter in small spaces.

Graphics Cards and Components That Know Their Lane

The GPU wins demonstrate clear market segmentation. The ROG Astral RTX 50 series targets enthusiasts wanting maximum performance with premium cooling solutions. The liquid-cooled ROG Astral LC RTX 50 series pushes further for users prioritizing silence over everything else. Meanwhile, the TUF Gaming RTX 50 series offers military-grade reliability at more accessible price points, demonstrating that durability doesn’t require premium pricing.

The ProArt Z890-CREATOR WIFI motherboard shows ASUS understanding that creators need different features than gamers. Instead of overclocking potential and RGB zones, this board focuses on stability, Thunderbolt connectivity, high-speed storage options, and professional-grade audio interfaces that actually matter for content creation workflows.

Accessories That Solve Actual Problems

The peripheral wins aren’t just about RGB and aggressive styling. The ROG Azoth Extreme earned recognition as a 75% gaming keyboard with a full aluminum alloy chassis, a carbon fiber positioning plate, and an OLED touchscreen that actually serves a purpose for customization. The ROG Harpe Ace Extreme mouse weighs just 47 grams thanks to carbon fiber construction, while packing a 42,000-dpi ROG AimPoint Pro optical sensor for users who need that level of precision.

The ASUS Master Thunderbolt 5 Dock DC510 addresses the cable chaos plaguing modern desks with enough bandwidth to run multiple 4K displays, storage arrays, and peripherals through a single cable. The thoughtful port placement and clean design demonstrate an understanding of how these devices are actually used in real workspaces.

Even the ROG SLASH Backpack series has earned recognition for solving specific problems that gamers face when transporting expensive hardware. These aren’t just bags with gaming logos; they feature dedicated compartments, actual protection systems, and thoughtful organization for cables and peripherals. The RT-BE58 Go router, ProArt PA401 PC case, and ASUS Cobble Enclosure storage solution round out the accessories, each addressing specific user needs rather than just filling product categories.

What This Design Sweep Actually Tells Us About Technology’s Future

Looking at these 41 wins collectively reveals something important about where technology design is heading. ASUS succeeded by recognizing that one-size-fits-all products satisfy nobody in 2025. A professional photographer needs fundamentally different display features than a competitive gamer. A business user values different laptop attributes than a content creator. A student needs different price points than an enterprise customer.

The sustainability angle running through many products also matters more than the press releases suggest. When premium products lead with 100% recycled aluminum frames and FSC-certified packaging, it normalizes these choices across entire product lines. Environmental consideration is becoming integral to good design rather than a marketing checkbox.

AI integration across categories shows ASUS betting on intelligence over raw specifications. The Zenfone 12 Ultra’s AI Transcript 2.0 converts meeting recordings to searchable documents without cloud processing. The ExpertBook P5’s AI ExpertMeet handles noise cancellation and camera framing locally. These features address real productivity needs while respecting privacy concerns.

Perhaps most importantly, these awards suggest the industry is moving past the era of spec sheet battles. ASUS won by solving specific user frustrations: shaky videos, gaming laptops that look unprofessional, mini PCs that throttle, displays with inconsistent colors, cable management nightmares. Each product addresses real problems people face daily rather than inventing new features nobody requested.

The breadth of this achievement, spanning from pocket-sized smartphones to professional workstations, demonstrates that good design principles scale across categories while respecting each segment’s unique demands. As the technology industry continues chasing bigger numbers and flashier features, ASUS’s focus on thoughtful problem-solving through design points toward a more user-centric future. Whether this translates to market success remains to be seen, but these 41 awards suggest they’re asking the right questions about what technology should actually do for the people who use it every day.

The post ASUS Dominates 2025 Red Dot Awards with 41 Wins Across Every Category That Matters first appeared on Yanko Design.

Motorola famously worked with Steve Jobs to bring iTunes to the Razr. Jobs hated the idea of having their software run on someone else’s hardware (which is why he created the iPhone), but up until Apple was ready to formally launch a phone, Jobs reluctantly partnered with Motorola. Now, for what it’s worth, there’s a Moto Razr out there, not with iTunes, but rather, with Windows XP running on it!

Shared on Reddit by Constant_Vehicle7539, this foldable Moto Razr 40 Ultra is running an emulated version of the famous Windows OS. The best part is that when opened halfway, it actually becomes a mini laptop of sorts, giving you a functional (or aesthetically functional, if I’m being accurate) Windows laptop – perhaps the smallest one ever made.

Designer: Constant_Vehicle7539

It’s crazy to actually see this in action. Constant_Vehicle7539 uses the Vectras VM QEMU emulator to run a Windows XP build on the phone. While there’s really no photo of the phone actually running an instance of the desktop (Constant_Vehicle7539 probably just didn’t take any photos), the images here show the boot screen and a few images of the OS setup. My favorite part is when the phone’s half open, looking like a miniature laptop with a touch keyboard. Apparently, Vectras VM offers different emulators, even Windows 11… but for us OG Windows users from back in the day, when we rocked Razrs, Ericssons, and Nokia N Series phones, this is a match made in heaven.

The emulator allows you to run an instance of Windows on any Android, so if you’ve got a dormant old phone lying in a cabinet gathering dust, this is a fun project you could work on. Your friends will be absolutely shocked to see Windows running on a smartphone. However, the only thing more shocking than this is the one time a crazy hacker managed to port iOS 18 onto a Nokia Lumia phone, making the operating system think it was an iPhone (with functional TouchID too!)

The post Moto Razr 40 Ultra Running Windows XP Is The Ultimate Tech Crossover We Didn’t Expect first appeared on Yanko Design.

Hermès, the iconic French luxury house known for its craftsmanship and timeless design, has stepped into the premium audio space with the unveiling of its Ateliers Horizons headphones. Priced at $15,000, this offering merges high-fidelity listening with haute couture, delivering a product that targets connoisseurs who value exclusivity as much as sound.

This move differentiates Hermès from traditional audio brands such as Bose, Sony, Sennheiser, and Apple. Rather than competing on technical specifications alone, Hermès positions its headphones as wearable art – designed not just to perform, but to signal status and taste. To signal status and taste, underscored by their mind-numbing $15,000 price tag, these bespoke headphones are not within the reach of most of us. The headphones are expected to arrive in select Hermès boutiques by summer 2025

Designer: Hermes

According to Axel de Beaufort, creative director of Ateliers Horizons since 2012, “The idea is not to be able to replicate that 10,000 times as a big headset supplier would do. The idea is to have the few that we will do made perfectly, and that has been a very long learning process. It’s about really super high-end craftsmanship.”

Luxury Craftsmanship as a Core Feature

What sets the Ateliers Horizons headphones apart is the artisanal quality of their construction. Handcrafted over two years by nearly 50 artisans in France, each pair features premium materials like Hermès’ signature saddle-stitched leather and polished metal hardware. The design draws directly from the brand’s famed Kelly bag, with five distinctive colorways available, including Rouge H and Prussian Blue.

This level of craftsmanship is absent in mainstream headphones such as the Bose QuietComfort Ultra or Sony WH-1000XM6, which are designed for mass production. While these models offer excellent active noise cancellation and adaptive sound technologies, they lack the tactile richness and bespoke quality that defines Hermès products. For those seeking a headphone that reflects personal style and heritage craftsmanship, Hermès offers something no tech brand currently does.

Even Apple’s AirPods Max, arguably the closest in terms of design appeal, rely heavily on industrial processes. They are sleek, feature-rich, and integrate tightly into Apple’s ecosystem—but they’re not handcrafted. Hermès, on the other hand, delivers a product where no two units are entirely alike, tailored to the luxury buyer’s sensibilities.

Radical Philosophy in Audio Design

While Hermès hasn’t disclosed extensive technical specifications, the headphones are expected to deliver high-end audio performance consistent with their premium positioning. The open grille design suggests the use of planar magnetic drivers, often favored by audiophiles for their clarity and precision. However, the real differentiator is not technology but philosophy: Hermès is crafting a unique sound signature described as “Hermès sound,” developed in-house rather than licensed from existing platforms.

Unlike competitors that emphasize software-driven sound adjustments, Hermès focuses on authenticity in both build and audio. The headphones eschew touch controls in favor of physical buttons – offering tactile satisfaction and durability. Both wired and Bluetooth connectivity options are available, ensuring versatility while maintaining a minimalist design ethos.

This contrasts with feature-rich models like the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless, which touts customizable EQ settings, multi-device support, and extended battery life. Similarly, premium offerings from Bowers & Wilkins, such as the Px8, emphasize acoustic engineering, app-based sound personalization, and cutting-edge wireless performance. Hermès chooses not to compete on those terms, instead aiming for timelessness over upgradability – prioritizing craftsmanship and aesthetic permanence over iterative tech enhancements.

For fat-pocketed audiophiles who are also collectors, the Ateliers Horizons headphones represent a new category: audio as a luxury object. Hermès isn’t trying to replace the go-to travel or studio headphones. Rather, it’s offering an accessory that hones a refined listening experience that sits outside the typical framework of consumer electronics!

The post Hermès Ateliers Horizons Headphones launch with an eye-watering $15,000 price tag first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling are $120 off with this Memorial Day deal. They're an excellent choice, especially at this low price.

The romance of the flip phone has never quite faded for those who value a touch of nostalgia and sophistication. With the resurgence of foldable phones, the clamshell silhouette has returned, not just as a nod to the past but as a canvas for bold innovation and high style. For the fashion-minded, the latest Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 promises a marriage of cutting-edge tech with opulent materials.

Motorola’s newest foldable is making waves for more than its flexible screen or sleek hardware. The Razr Ultra 2025, also known as the Razr 60 Ultra in certain regions, reimagines the iconic flip phone as a bona fide fashion accessory. Rather than relying on aftermarket cases for personality, Motorola has opted for materials and textures that turn the phone itself into a statement piece right out of the box.

Designer: Motorola

This year’s Razr Ultra arrives in four distinct Pantone-validated finishes, each one offering its own tactile and visual allure. For those drawn to understated elegance, PANTONE Scarab wraps the phone in Alcantara, a fabric beloved by designers for its refined softness and subtle sheen. PANTONE Mountain Trail delivers a natural twist, featuring FSC-certified wood that gives the device an organic warmth and a one-of-a-kind grain pattern.

For those who prefer a pop of color, PANTONE Rio Red is inspired by the classic luxury of leather, while PANTONE Cabaret boasts a silky, satin-like surface that perfectly captures the energy of its name. Each variant is crafted to turn heads, inviting touch and admiration, and offering a level of personal expression rarely seen in mobile devices.

Underneath the refined exterior, the Razr Ultra 2025 doesn’t miss a beat in performance. It runs on the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, promising smooth multitasking and lightning-fast responsiveness. The hinge mechanism has been upgraded as well, now constructed from titanium rather than stainless steel, enhancing both strength and longevity. An IP48 rating offers some reassurance against splashes, though keeping out dust remains a challenge for most foldables.

Priced at $1,299, the Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 is aimed squarely at those who see their phone as an essential part of their personal style. It stands shoulder to shoulder with luxury flagships like Samsung’s Galaxy Ultra, unapologetically premium and unabashedly fashionable. For anyone who believes that technology should be as beautiful as it is powerful, this Razr is ready to be shown off as the accessory of the season.

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The Void Wireless V2 has it all: a comfortable design, great sound, and a good overall value. Basically, this is one of the best mid-range gaming headsets you can buy today.

The Shure MV6 is the brand's entry-level USB microphone, and it's an excellent product that's easy to set up and use, but it's not a complete slam dunk.

The only company better than Google at leaking their own phone designs seems to be Carl Pei’s Nothing. After weeks of constant teasing different details of the Phone (3a) and (3a) Pro’s design, they’re back with their latest device from the company’s budget wing, CMF. The CMF Phone 2 is slated to launch on the 28th of this month, but Nothing decided to lift the veil on its design a week in advance, getting its Asia-focused market excited well in time to line up to buy the device. The CMF Phone 2 Pro (yes, the budget line has a Pro variant too) was officially revealed in a video on Twitter (do we still have to call it X?), showcasing two beautiful colorways – white and that eye-catching orange.

The design is a masterclass in iterative evolution. The overall flavor of the phone remains the same, with the plastic body, the customizable backplate, and the knob on the bottom right corner of the back. However, the camera layout gets a revamp, going from a capsule-shaped build to two individual metal rings and one capsule beside them. This confirms all past sources, bringing the camera count of this budget-beast to 3 lenses. Eggs might be expensive, but camera lenses apparently are a dime a dozen!

Designer: CMF by Nothing

While the camera layout hasn’t been particularly new information (we learnt about it more than a month ago), the new design reveals an interesting backplate upgrade. While last year’s model had a single-color backplate, punctuated by the camera layout and the knob at the bottom, the Phone 2 Pro’s design comes with a dual-tone finish. The orange and white variants both showcase an interplay between matte and metallic finishes on the backplate, giving the phone’s blockish form an exciting visual break. As an industrial designer, I absolutely love it – it’s exciting without looking gaudy (like some budget phones and their atrocious holographic shimmering backs). The design is subtle and sophisticated – something that still lets you set yourself apart as design-conscious even in the budget-phone category.

CMF confirmed earlier that the Phone 2 Pro will be powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 7300 Pro, a modest upgrade over the previous 7300. It’s a 6nm SoC built for efficiency and mid-range performance. It’s not flagship power, but it has enough punch to keep up with demanding games and multitasking, and that silky 120Hz display refresh rate CMF teased for battle royale enthusiasts. That detail alone places this phone squarely in the gamer-on-a-budget lane.

The triple camera setup features a 50MP wide sensor, another 50MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultrawide for those expansive cityscapes and group shots. Early samples teased with the tagline “Built for light, depth and detail” suggest a sensor configuration that leans hard into contrast and sharpness. If the software pipeline holds up, this could be one of the few affordable phones where the telephoto isn’t an afterthought.

One element CMF hasn’t confirmed is whether that dual-tone design will extend to additional colors at launch. If orange and white are just the start, this might be a new wave of expressive hardware. CMF is pushing aesthetic diversity with functional depth—think Playdate meets Android. It feels like the next step for Nothing’s design-forward philosophy: take the playful transparency of the original Nothing Phone and evolve it into modular expressionism.

The post Nothing Confirms CMF Phone 2 Pro Design with 3 Cameras and a Dual-tone Backplate first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Pixel 9a features Gemini Nano and Gemini Live for real-time AI interactions. Soon, Gemini Advanced users can share their screen or camera for deeper engagement.

The evolution of foldable devices has primarily followed predictable paths – either compact clamshells or book-style tablets. Huawei’s Pura X introduces a refreshingly different design philosophy that questions fundamental assumptions about how we interact with our devices. This wide-format foldable explores new territory through thoughtful proportions, tactile materials, and visual harmony.

Designer: Huawei

At first glance, the Pura X’s physical presence communicates intentional design decisions. The unfolded dimensions of 143.2 x 91.7 x 7.15mm create a canvas that’s deliberately wider than tall, breaking from the elongated rectangular forms dominating today’s market. This 16:10 aspect ratio isn’t arbitrary – it reflects careful consideration of how humans consume content, from reading to video viewing to productivity tasks.

Folded, the device transforms into a nearly square 91.7 x 74.3 x 15.1mm form that sits naturally in hand. This geometric transition showcases Huawei’s industrial design expertise. The Xuanwu teardrop hinge mechanism utilizes space-grade materials rated at 1900 MPa, allowing for fluid movement while maintaining structural integrity. The hinge’s engineering permits a nearly gapless closure while accommodating the flexible display technology within.

The weight distribution deserves particular attention. At 193.7 grams for the eco-leather version (195.9 grams for glass), the Pura X achieves remarkable lightness without sacrificing durability. This weight places it firmly in the ultralight category for foldable – an impressive achievement considering the complex internal components and battery capacity.

Material Narrative

The Pura X’s material choices tell a sophisticated design story through five distinct finishes. Pattern Red and Pattern Green showcase textured eco-leather with extraordinarily precise 0.05mm embossing. This micro-texture creates a subtle tactile experience that rewards touch while providing practical grip benefits. The leather variants speak to users who value organic warmth and patina development over time.

For those drawn to contemporary minimalism, Moon Shadow Gray, Zero White, and Fantasy Night Black employ transparent glass with different reflective qualities. Each color interacts uniquely with light, creating visual depth that changes throughout the day. The glass variants feature nano-etched textures that reduce fingerprints while maintaining the material’s inherent luster.

These material choices reflect Huawei’s understanding that smartphones exist as both technological tools and personal accessories. The color palette avoids trendy shades in favor of timeless options that integrate seamlessly into various lifestyles and environments.

Display Architecture

The Pura X’s display design represents perhaps its most significant contribution to foldable evolution. The 6.3-inch inner flexible OLED screen with 2120 x 1320 pixel resolution (~396 ppi) and approximately 87.5% screen-to-body ratio creates an expansive visual canvas with balanced proportions.

This LTPO2 OLED panel supports 1 billion colors with P3 wide color gamut coverage, ensuring color accuracy for creative professionals. The 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate technology intelligently adjusts based on content requirements, preserving battery life during static content viewing while delivering fluid animations when needed.

The 1440Hz high-frequency PWM dimming represents a thoughtful inclusion for user wellbeing, reducing eye strain during extended use sessions. The 2,500 nits peak brightness ensures visibility in challenging lighting conditions, from direct sunlight to dimly lit environments.

The external 3.5-inch square OLED display (980 x 980 pixels) deserves equal recognition for its considered design. The perfect 1:1 aspect ratio creates visual harmony in the folded state. This display shares many technical specifications with the main screen – adaptive 1-120Hz refresh rate, 2500 nits peak brightness, and HDR Vivid support – ensuring a consistent visual experience regardless of which screen is in use.

Functional Aesthetics

The Pura X’s camera array demonstrates how technical requirements can inform distinctive visual design. The horizontal arrangement of four lenses creates a recognizable profile while maintaining clean geometric alignment with the device’s edges. This quad-camera system includes:

• 50MP main camera with f/1.6 aperture, RYYB sensor, and optical stabilization
• 40MP ultra-wide with f/2.2 aperture, RYYB sensor, and macro capabilities
• 8MP telephoto with f/2.4 aperture, OIS, and 3.5x optical zoom
• A dedicated 1.5MP multi-spectral color sensor

The camera housing rises from the rear surface with gentle contouring rather than abrupt edges, creating natural light transitions across the back panel. This treatment reduces the visual weight of the necessary protrusion while maintaining the device’s overall design language.

The side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrates seamlessly into the frame, positioned for natural thumb placement. This location allows for consistent access whether the device is folded or unfolded – a thoughtful ergonomic detail that demonstrates consideration for real-world usage patterns.

Interior Engineering

The Pura X’s internal architecture reveals equally meticulous design thinking. The 4,720mAh dual-cell battery configuration distributes power sources to maintain balanced weight distribution and optimal thermal management. This arrangement supports 66W wired fast charging, 40W wireless fast charging, and bidirectional charging capabilities (7.5W wireless, 5W wired) without compromising the device’s slim profile.

Thermal engineering showcases sophisticated three-dimensional thinking. A graphite plate with 2,000 W/m·K thermal conductivity efficiently dissipates heat across the device’s internal volume. This system maintains comfortable external temperatures even during processor-intensive tasks while protecting battery longevity through consistent thermal regulation.

The internal component layout accommodates comprehensive connectivity options without compromising structural integrity. Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, USB Type-C 3.1 with DisplayPort capabilities, and an infrared port all find homes within the compact chassis. The Collector’s Edition models even incorporate satellite communication hardware – a significant engineering achievement given the space constraints.

Accessories as Design Extensions

Huawei extends the Pura X’s design language through three purpose-built accessories. The three-dimensional hand-held protective case adds practical functionality while maintaining the device’s visual identity. The geometric plain leather protective case introduces additional textural elements that complement the phone’s materials. The ultra-thin plain leather protective case prioritizes minimal bulk while providing essential protection.

Each accessory has been developed as a thoughtful extension of the core product rather than an afterthought, sharing material qualities and design language with the Pura X itself.

Design in Service of Experience

Pura X’s design philosophy ultimately enhances the user experience in meaningful ways. The wide-format display creates natural reading environments with comfortable text columns. Video content benefits from cinematic framing that reduces letterboxing. Productivity applications gain usable screen real estate for complex tasks.

The external display transforms quick interactions through its square proportions, providing sufficient space for meaningful engagement without requiring the device to be opened. This thoughtful approach to dual-screen design reduces unnecessary wear on the folding mechanism while streamlining common tasks.

HarmonyOS 5.0.1’s visual design complements the hardware through consistent geometric principles and spatial relationships. The Xiaoyi voice assistant’s breathing visual effects demonstrate attention to animation as a design element. The system’s AI capabilities, including eye movement page turning and intelligent content caching, show how software and hardware design can work in harmony to create cohesive experiences.

The Pura X represents a significant design achievement in the foldable category through its willingness to question established norms. By exploring alternative proportions, materials, and interaction models, Huawei has created a device that offers genuinely new possibilities for how we might engage with mobile technology. Whether this design direction resonates broadly with consumers remains to be seen, but the thoughtful execution and clear vision deserve recognition from the design community.

The post HUAWEI Pura X: Wide-Format Design Breaks Foldable Boundaries first appeared on Yanko Design.

Someone must have finally pulled the plug, as five years after support officially ended, the Microsoft Store on Windows 10 Mobile has stopped working properly.

I was a big fan of the OPPO Find N3, so when I heard rumors that OPPO might be exiting the foldable market, I was disappointed. That’s also why I was excited when I received the news that OPPO is indeed launching a new book-style foldable phone. What I liked about the Find N3 was that its camera performance didn’t feel like a compromise, something that was not always the case with many foldable phones when the Find N3 was released. While having a powerful imaging system on a foldable phone means dealing with a sizable camera bump, it was a trade-off I was happy to live with.

The foldable phone landscape varies significantly across regions. While US consumers are limited to Samsung, Google, and OnePlus, international markets enjoy a more diverse selection, with brands like Xiaomi, Vivo, Huawei, and others competing to deliver increasingly sophisticated foldable devices. Now, roughly 15 months after the Find N3’s debut, OPPO has unveiled the Find N5, pushing boundaries once again.

Designer: OPPO

The Find N5 brings a lot to the table. It’s the world’s thinnest book-style foldable, the first foldable powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, and the first foldable certified with IPX6, IPX8, and IPX9 ratings. As a longtime admirer of the Find N3 Fold, I approached the Find N5 with high expectations. Let’s see how it stacks up.

Aesthetics

We are at a time when flagship smartphones are moving away from large camera bumps, and the OPPO Find N5 makes a bold yet elegant statement. The camera island has been thoughtfully redesigned, achieving a 20% reduction in thickness compared to its predecessor while retaining OPPO’s distinctive Cosmos Ring design. This refined approach creates a more sophisticated profile that aligns with the phone’s premium positioning.

The Find N5’s design philosophy emphasizes clean lines and minimal ornamentation, yet manages to maintain visual interest through careful material selection and finish details. Available in two colorways, each variant offers a unique aesthetic appeal. The Cosmic Black variant features a sophisticated matte back panel that evokes a deep, mysterious appearance resembling frosted glass. Its matte gray frame creates a seamless, monolithic appearance that exudes understated luxury.

The Misty White variant, on the other hand, incorporates nano-lithography technology to create an ethereal, constantly shifting pattern across its back panel. This finish catches and plays with light in subtle ways, creating an almost ethereal effect as you move the device. The silver frame provides a striking contrast that highlights the phone’s premium construction while adding a touch of brightness to the overall design.

Both colorways share a similar textured back that delivers an exceptionally refined tactile experience. The surface treatment not only provides a pleasant silky touch but also helps minimize fingerprints and smudges, maintaining the phone’s pristine appearance during daily use.

Ergonomics

The Oppo Find N5 claims the title of the world’s thinnest book-style foldable, measuring just 4.21mm when unfolded and 8.93mm when folded. The phone’s dimensions are 160.87mm x 145.58mm x 4.21mm when unfolded, and 160.87mm x 74.42mm x 8.93mm when folded. The Find N5 boasts more than just thinness; it’s also very light, weighing only 229g. To put it in perspective, that is only 6.8mm thicker and 2g heavier than the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Despite its slim profile, the device feels robust and well-engineered. Holding the folded Find N5 feels almost like holding a slab phone, and it fits comfortably in your palm or pocket. Oppo revisited almost every componentfrom the motherboard to the USB-C port, the hinge, and the frameto achieve this balance of thinness, lightness, and durability.

Another impressive feature of this phone is the crease, or rather, the lack of one. It’s barely noticeable both visually and tactically. You wouldn’t notice the crease unless you look at it from a certain angle. What’s even more remarkable is that you hardly feel it when you run your finger across it, both in terms of width and depth. The Find N3 already had a very subtle crease, but the Find N5 takes it to the next level, with a crease that is 10% narrower and 50% shallower. It has the most deceptive crease of any foldable phone I’ve ever tried.

The hinge feels consistent throughout its range of motion. Unlike the inconsistent hinge of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 or the more effort-demanding hinge of the Pixel Fold, opening and closing the N5 feels smooth and fluid. Unfortunately, the Find N5’s hinge isn’t as steady when the phone is opened at a wider angle. There were a few occasions when the phone slowly opened flat while I was watching a video with the phone at about a 95 to 100-degree angle.

Another thing to note is the position of the volume rocker: it’s too high. You’ll need to shift your palm or hold the phone with two hands to reach it. Also, when I hold the phone open, with my pinky finger supporting most of the weight, it digs into my pinky. But this probably has to do with the position of my pinky, as I tend to support the phone with the side of my pinky near the nail. If I support it with the pad of my pinky, it’s not an issue.

Performance

Display quality stands as one of the Find N5’s strongest features. The outer 6.62-inch OLED screen (2616 x 1140 resolution, 431 PPI) delivers impressive brightness up to 1600 nits outdoors. The inner 8.12-inch OLED display (2248 x 2480 resolution, 412 PPI) reaches 1400 nits of outdoor. Both screens feature adaptive 1-120Hz refresh rates with LTPO technology and support HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. The outer display’s 20.7:9 aspect ratio provides a familiar smartphone experience, while the inner screen’s 9.9:9 ratio creates an immersive viewing canvas. The transition between displays is seamless, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Find N5 features stereo speakers, but they are only located on the outer screen side. This design choice reduces the immersive experience, as you’ll notice the sound coming from just one side of the phone when watching content with the phone unfolded.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, the Find N5 handles multitasking and intensive workloads effortlessly, maintaining cool temperatures even under pressure. Find N5 runs ColorOS15.0.1 based on Android 15. The improved Boundless View makes multitasking, switching between apps, copy and paste easy and seamless. Find N5 further enhances productivity through various AI features, including AI Document for translation and summarization, and AI Call Summary for transcribing audio conversations.

One of the standout features is O+ Connect for Mac, which builds upon OPPO’s existing file transfer capabilities between OPPO devices and iOS and iPadOS. This new functionality enables remote Mac control through the Find N5, though it requires the O+ Connect application to be installed on your Mac. The device also supports the OPPO Pen, adding another layer of productivity and creativity. However, testing this feature wasn’t possible during the review period, as I was unable to acquire the OPPO Pen.

The Find N5’s imaging system builds upon OPPO and Hasselblad’s photography expertise, featuring a triple-camera array. The 50MP main camera shares the same Sony LYT-700 sensor (1/1.56-inch, f/1.89) with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) as the Find X8, delivering excellent results in both daylight and low-light conditions. Images show impressive sharpness, accurate white balance, and strong dynamic range.

Accompanying the main sensor is a 50MP telephoto camera (1/2.75-inch sensor, f/2.7) with OIS, offering 3x optical zoom and 6x lossless zoom capabilities. While the camera technically supports up to 120x zoom, image quality deteriorates significantly beyond 6x. The telephoto lens doubles as a capable macro shooter with a 10cm focal length.

The 8MP ultra-wide camera (15mm-equivalent, 116-degree field-of-view, f/2.2) proves to be the system’s weak point, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. This limitation is especially disappointing given the foldable form factor’s unique advantage for selfie composition using the outer display as a viewfinder.

Video capabilities include 4K 60fps recording on both main and telephoto cameras, while the ultra-wide is limited to 4K 30fps. Camera switching during video recording is possible but lacks smoothness in transition.

OPPO has managed to pack an impressive 5600mAh battery into the Find N5’s slim frame, complemented by robust charging capabilities. The device supports 80W SuperVOOC wired charging and 50W AirVOOC wireless charging, ensuring quick power replenishment when needed. Battery performance is particularly noteworthy given the device’s form factor. The Find N5 easily handles a full day of heavy usage, including extended periods of content consumption on the larger inner display and intensive camera use. This endurance is especially impressive considering the power demands of the big inner screen.

Sustainability

One of the concerns many people have when it comes to foldable phones is durability. The hinge is the essential element of a foldable phone, forming the foundation of its structural integrity and ensuring its overall durability. The hinge of Find N5 is crafted from aerospace-standard Grad 5 titanium alloy and utilizes advanced 3D printing technology to achieve precision and strength. 

Just like the hinge, the inner screen is subjected to the physical stress of opening and closing. To address this, N5 uses what it calls a Dual Shielded Flexible Screen. This technology employs an ultra-thin stainless steel plate, ultra-thing glass, and an exclusive anti-shock film, making Find N5 70% more shock-resistant compared to the previous generation, according to Oppo.

The other worry that comes with a foldable phone is its vulnerability to water. Luckly Find N5 is IPX6, IPX8, and IPX9-rated, which means it can withstand submersion and high-pressure, high temperature. While it does not have an official rating for dust protection, protection against extreme water conditions gives you peace of mind whether you are caught in the rain or accidentally drop the phone into water.

As for the update, Find N5 will get 4 years of Android updates and 5 years of security updates. This is pretty much the industry standard when it comes to software support, so it’s reassuring that OPPO isn’t cutting corners here. Improving the phone’s longevity plays an important role in reducing its negative impact on the environment as time goes by.

Value

The OPPO Find N5 is a remarkable device, showcasing cutting-edge foldable smartphone technology. Its engineering achievementssuch as its thin profile, innovative hinge, and durabilityposition it as a premium option in the foldable space. You’d be hard-pressed to find such a potent laundry list of desirable bullet points in a single device.

While its retail price and market availability will play significant roles in determining its value, the combination of advanced features, productivity tools, and exceptional build quality makes the Find N5 a strong contender in the high-end foldable market. If you’re looking for a blend of portability, build quality, productivity, and camera performance, the Find N5 delivers a compelling package.

Verdict

The OPPO Find N5 represents a refined approach to foldable smartphone design, addressing many common issues associated with the form factor. OPPO has delivered a well-polished device that’s practical for everyday use, with features like its slim profile, near-invisible crease, and water resistance.

Its standout achievements include impressive camera performance, seamless display transitions, and a solid balance between portability and battery life. The integration of productivity features like O+ Connect for Mac and AI tools further elevates its utility.

The OPPO Find N5 stands out in the growing foldable market, offering an impressive package for those seeking a high-end, versatile, and reliable foldable smartphone. As foldables continue to mature, the Find N5 suggests that OPPO is leading the charge in refining this exciting technology.

The post OPPO Find N5 Review: Engineering Excellence, Productivity Powerhouse first appeared on Yanko Design.

Huawei’s latest product launch in Kuala Lumpur introduced a series of meaningful advancements. The company is doubling down on foldable displays, audio, and wearables with bold designs and refined engineering. The event introduced the HUAWEI Mate XT, the world’s first commercial tri-fold smartphone, an upgraded MatePad Pro 13.2, the FreeArc open-ear earbuds, and the lightweight HUAWEI Band 10.

Designer: Huawei

HUAWEI Mate XT: The Evolution of Foldable Displays

Huawei’s Mate XT takes foldable smartphones to the next level. The tri-fold design creates a 10.2-inch display while maintaining a slim 3.6mm profile. The Advanced Precision Hinge System and ultra-thin glass (UTG) allow it to fold both inwards and outwards, offering flexibility for various use cases. The structure is engineered for durability, with Huawei’s proprietary hinge mechanism reducing stress points to ensure a smooth transition between folding positions.

For multitasking, the large screen supports split-screen functionality and adaptable viewing modes. Whether reading, browsing, or handling multiple apps simultaneously, the Mate XT transitions smoothly between tasks. The device’s software is optimized to take full advantage of its expanded display, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously without compromise. Huawei has also packed in its Ultra Aperture XMAGE Camera, featuring a 10-size adjustable physical aperture, designed for professionals who need sharp, versatile photography in any lighting condition. The high-resolution sensor, combined with Huawei’s computational photography advancements, ensures professional-grade results without requiring additional editing.

The Mate XT’s battery life is engineered to handle the demands of power users. A high-capacity battery paired with Huawei’s SuperCharge technology allows for rapid refueling, ensuring the device remains ready for productivity or entertainment throughout the day. The addition of improved cooling mechanisms prevents overheating during intensive tasks such as video editing or gaming, making the Mate XT a powerhouse in the foldable space.

HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2: A Tablet Aiming to Replace Your Laptop

Huawei’s latest MatePad Pro 13.2 leans into productivity with a vibrant OLED PaperMatte Display, a 2.8K resolution, and an ultra-slim design. The 1000-nit brightness ensures sharp visuals, whether working indoors or out. It’s paired with the HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard, delivering a near-laptop typing experience with tactile keys and an intuitive layout. The integration of Huawei’s ecosystem allows seamless device interconnectivity, making it possible to switch between a smartphone, laptop, and tablet effortlessly.

Beyond the hardware, Huawei is refining its software ecosystem. Apps like HUAWEI Notes and GoPaint offer deeper creative functionality, while the PC-style multitasking tools make working on a tablet feel less like a compromise. The latency-free stylus support ensures a smooth writing and drawing experience, catering to digital artists, designers, and professionals who need precision tools on the go. A 10,100 mAh battery ensures longevity, with HUAWEI SuperCharge getting the device to a full charge in just 65 minutes, allowing for all-day productivity without frequent recharges.

HUAWEI FreeArc: Open-Ear Audio for an Active Lifestyle

Huawei is stepping into open-ear audio with the FreeArc, a set of hooked earbuds designed for comfort and stability. The C-bridge structure, combined with a flexible 0.7mm nickel-titanium memory alloy, ensures a secure fit without compromising breathability. Huawei’s design team studied over 10,000 ear shapes to refine the ergonomics, making them comfortable for long sessions.

Unlike traditional earbuds that block outside noise, the FreeArc allows for situational awareness, making them ideal for urban runners or cyclists. A 17 x 12 mm high-sensitivity driver, along with Adaptive Equal-loudness Algorithm and Dynamic Bass Algorithm, provides a deep, resonant sound. With an IP57 rating, they hold up in wet and dusty conditions, making them a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The Reverse Sound Waves System directs sound toward the ear canal while minimizing leakage, ensuring privacy while enhancing audio clarity.

The FreeArc earbuds also prioritize voice clarity during calls. Featuring a dual-microphone setup with AI noise cancellation, the earbuds effectively suppress wind and ambient noise, making them ideal for business professionals who need reliable call quality in various environments. The extended battery life, combined with fast-charging capabilities, allows for long listening sessions without frequent recharging.

HUAWEI Band 10: Lightweight, Smart, and Stylish

The HUAWEI Band 10 refines wellness tracking with a sleek design and advanced sensors. It offers an Enhanced Sleep Health Assistant that analyzes sleep cycles in detail, providing actionable insights. The Emotional Wellbeing Assistant tracks physiological changes, helping users monitor stress levels throughout the day.

Customization is at the forefront, with Panda-themed watch faces that adapt based on mood. The Band 10 is lightweight and designed for all-day wear, making it a seamless addition to any lifestyle, whether for fitness tracking or daily productivity. Advanced heart rate monitoring and SpO2 tracking ensure that users receive real-time health insights, supporting both athletic performance and general wellness.

Huawei has also incorporated smart notifications, allowing users to receive messages, calls, and app alerts directly on their wrist without the need to constantly check their phone. The extended battery life makes it practical for continuous wear, ensuring users can rely on the Band 10 as a comprehensive wellness and productivity tool.

Pricing and Availability

The HUAWEI FreeArc earbuds are available for pre-order at £99.99, with a £25 discount running until March 3. The full launch takes place on March 4, with a promotional offer of £20 off until April 1. More details can be found on Huawei’s official site.

With foldable displays maturing, Huawei is showing it’s serious about pushing the category forward. The Mate XT is more than a concept—it’s a product that expands what’s possible in mobile design. The new tablet and audio devices round out a lineup built for users who demand more from their technology. Huawei’s focus on design and technological refinement is user-driven innovation is evident in every aspect of these releases, proving that the brand remains a key player in shaping the future of consumer tech.

The post Huawei Unveils Game-Changing Tri-Fold Smartphone, Pro-Grade Tablet, and Open-Ear Audio Innovation first appeared on Yanko Design.

The tablet-sized Huawei Mate XT costs $3,662 and isn’t fully operational inside the United States. Huawei launched it globally despite supply constraints.

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Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series—the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra—represents a thoughtful evolution in smartphone technology. It combines advanced AI integration, refined camera systems, and impressive performance capabilities. While it introduces meaningful upgrades, the series remains grounded in Samsung’s mission to deliver reliable, user-focused devices.

Designer: Samsung

Each model in the lineup has been designed with specific users in mind. The S25 caters to those who value compact and efficient devices, the S25+ strikes a balance with its larger display and battery, and the S25 Ultra targets tech enthusiasts with its cutting-edge features and premium build. After spending time with the lineup, it’s clear that Samsung is refining the formula to appeal to a wide spectrum of needs without straying from its established strengths.

Design and Durability

Samsung’s design refinement is on full display with the S25 series, showcasing slimmer edges, a lighter profile, and refined materials that make each device feel both premium and practical. “With the S25 Ultra, we’ve focused on a design that feels lighter and also improves grip and usability,” Charles Uptegrove, Samsung’s product manager, shared during the demo. “The titanium frame plays a huge role in achieving this balance—it’s lighter yet sturdier, giving users confidence in everyday handling.”

The flatter edges enhance grip and lend a modern, streamlined aesthetic. Uptegrove also highlighted the subtle lift in the frame: “If you look closely, there’s a slight elevation around the edge, ensuring that the display never comes into direct contact with a surface when placed facedown. It’s a minor detail that offers major peace of mind.” This thoughtful addition minimizes the risk of scratches, especially for users who prefer to go caseless.

The S25 and S25+ are equipped with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, providing excellent scratch resistance and durability. The S25 Ultra, on the other hand, steps up its toughness with enhanced Corning Gorilla Armor on the front and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the back. Adding to this, the Ultra incorporates a titanium frame, ensuring a premium yet rugged build.

“The titanium not only reduces weight but also adds to the overall feel of durability,” Uptegrove explained. At 218 grams, the Ultra strikes a balance between a solid, premium feel and comfort in hand. “It’s slimmer, lighter, and more ergonomic, thanks to the redefined edges and materials. These adjustments make the Ultra easier to use for extended periods without any fatigue,” he added. At the same time, the smaller size doesn’t compromise its usability, with the S25 offering a compact design that weighs only 162 grams.

The combination of premium materials and subtle ergonomic improvements showcases Samsung’s attention to detail. “We wanted to create a device that feels effortless to handle while still exuding that premium Samsung quality,” Uptegrove emphasized. For users seeking a balance between aesthetics and functionality, these design updates are sure to resonate.

Display and Visual Excellence

The display is where Samsung continues to shine. The Galaxy S25’s 6.2-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen offers vivid colors, excellent brightness levels, and a fluid 120Hz refresh rate, making it perfect for users who value smooth scrolling and lifelike visuals. The S25+ steps up with a larger 6.7-inch QHD+ display that enhances sharpness and delivers deeper contrast, ideal for watching movies or editing photos. Meanwhile, the S25 Ultra’s expansive 6.9-inch QHD+ screen offers an immersive viewing experience that is unrivaled in clarity and detail, ensuring even the smallest on-screen elements remain crisp.

During hands-on time, I found the Ultra’s ProScaler feature particularly transformative. Borrowed from Samsung’s premium TV lineup, ProScaler intelligently upscales lower-quality content to QHD+ resolution in real-time. Even older videos or low-resolution social media images gain impressive sharpness, providing a visually satisfying experience regardless of the source content. Charles Uptegrove highlighted the real-world value of this feature: “Even if the original content is far from 4K, it will look vibrant and crisp on the Ultra’s QHD+ display.” This capability bridges the gap between source quality and display potential, enhancing every viewing experience.

AI Features and Innovations

Samsung’s integration of artificial intelligence across the Galaxy S25 series enhances everyday functionality to unprecedented levels. During the hands-on demo, Charles Uptegrove emphasized the thoughtfulness behind the Galaxy AI Platform and its seamless integration into One UI 7. “We’ve spent years ensuring that these features not only feel intuitive but actually make life easier for users,” he noted, setting the tone for a deep dive into the device’s AI capabilities.

Central to this is NowBrief, described by Uptegrove as a ‘curated AI’ that learns and adapts to the user’s daily routines. “It’s like having a personal assistant that knows exactly what you need,” he explained. For instance, NowBrief consolidates data from various apps to create a personalized dashboard. “You might wake up and see the weather, your energy score from your Galaxy Watch, reminders of friends’ birthdays, and even playlists for your commute—all in one place,” Uptegrove added. Demonstrating the drawing assist feature, he showcased how AI generates creative designs, such as a birthday card complete with a chocolate cake image, which can then be sent directly to contacts.

Another highlight is AI Select, which transforms traditional Smart Select into a smarter, context-aware tool. “If you’re watching a video, it might suggest creating a GIF, summarizing the content, or translating subtitles,” Uptegrove explained. This feature consolidates over 30 tools, making complex tasks remarkably simple and accessible.

The Circle of Search feature introduces multimodal search capabilities, allowing users to identify songs in videos or find specific photos using natural language commands. “Say something like, ‘Find pictures of wine bottles in Suwon,’ and the AI will filter through your gallery using tags and location data,” he demonstrated, illustrating the precision of this feature. Uptegrove emphasized how this functionality simplifies navigating vast photo libraries, making it easier for users to locate exactly what they need.

Personalization is another area where AI shines. Uptegrove detailed how the Personal Data Engine securely learns user habits, suggesting actions like automating thermostat settings or enabling the blue light filter at night. “For example, if you use your TV as a sleep aid, the device can detect when you’ve fallen asleep via your Galaxy Watch and turn off the TV to improve your sleep quality,” he explained. This level of personalization extends to managing health metrics, such as sleep scores and energy levels, and integrating them into daily routines.

One of the most innovative features is the audio eraser, which isolates and removes specific background sounds from videos. During the demo, Uptegrove showcased how AI can identify up to six sound types, including wind, crowd noise, and voice. “You can completely remove the wind or adjust the voice volume—all in real time,” he shared, underscoring the feature’s utility for content creators and everyday users alike.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra also features generative editing, allowing users to seamlessly remove unwanted objects from photos. “If there’s someone in the background of your shot, the AI can identify and erase them, along with their shadow, with a single tap,” Uptegrove explained. These enhancements cater to photographers and casual users who want professional-grade results with minimal effort.

Camera Systems and Photography

Samsung’s camera systems in the S25 series deliver major enhancements across all three devices. The Galaxy S25 and S25+ share a solid camera setup: a 50MP wide sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom. These cameras are perfect for everyday photography, delivering impressive results whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or close-ups.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra takes mobile photography to another level with a 200MP wide sensor that captures stunning levels of detail, even in challenging conditions. This is complemented by a 50MP 5x telephoto lens, which supports both 3x and 5x optical zoom, enabling users to achieve up to 100x Space Zoom. Imagine capturing intricate architectural details or wildlife from a distance with remarkable clarity. Additionally, the Ultra includes high-resolution macro photography capabilities, making it perfect for close-ups of small objects like flowers or jewelry.

The Ultra’s virtual aperture stands out as a transformative feature. Charles Uptegrove aptly described it as “painting focus,” highlighting how it lets users fine-tune the depth of field to accentuate either the subject or the background for a professional-grade touch. This flexibility provides a DSLR-like bokeh effect, allowing photographers to craft their images with precision and creativity. This software-based tool allows users to adjust the depth of field and background blur for photos, mimicking the effects of a physical aperture in a DSLR. For example, while shooting portraits, the virtual aperture enables precise control over the bokeh effect, allowing the subject to stand out against a beautifully blurred background. During the demo, Charles Uptegrove explained, “It’s like giving users the ability to paint their focus—whether they want sharp details in the background or a dreamy, isolated subject.” This feature enhances creative flexibility and makes portrait mode feel more like a professional-grade camera.

AI advancements like Samsung’s Pro Visual Engine further refine photography. The Ultra’s cognitive lens technology adjusts settings based on the scene, ensuring optimal brightness, contrast, and color balance. For group photos, the cognitive lens identifies individual faces and applies adjustments for each subject, delivering professional-quality results. In low-light conditions, the Ultra’s double-analysis noise reduction ensures clearer images and videos by analyzing every pixel and correcting artifacts in real time. Video capabilities also differ: the S25 and S25+ record in 4K at 60fps and 8K at 30fps, while the Ultra supports 4K recording at 120fps for smoother, more cinematic results.

For professional photographers, the Ultra offers log video and advanced exposure controls, including zebra patterns and false color modes. These features cater to users who want precise post-production capabilities, enabling them to fine-tune color and lighting. Combined with the virtual aperture, these tools empower users to push creative boundaries, whether capturing stills or video.

Performance

Under the hood, all three models are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which Charles Uptegrove described as a “tailored processor that ensures unparalleled efficiency and responsiveness.” This 3nm chipset boosts performance and optimizes AI-driven tasks like NowBrief and AI Select, seamlessly integrating advanced capabilities into daily use. a 3nm processor that sets a new benchmark for efficiency and power. With a 40% improvement in AI task efficiency, the chipset ensures that resource-heavy operations like multitasking, gaming, and media editing run smoothly. For gaming enthusiasts, Samsung has partnered with the Vulkan Engine to enhance real-time ray tracing capabilities, achieving an 18% improvement in frame rates while reducing GPU and CPU workloads by 23% and 10%, respectively.

To support this leap in performance, Samsung has implemented a significantly upgraded cooling system. The vapor chamber, now 40% larger than its predecessor, works in tandem with a new thermal interface material (TIM) that eliminates air gaps around the chipset. This design efficiently dissipates heat, maintaining peak performance during intensive tasks such as gaming or 4K video rendering.

Samsung’s ProScaler, borrowed from its premium TV lineup, further enhances the viewing experience by intelligently upscaling standard-definition content to QHD+ resolution in real time. Even older videos or low-resolution social media images gain impressive sharpness, providing a visually satisfying experience regardless of the source content. Charles Uptegrove highlighted the real-world value of this feature: “Even if the original content is far from 4K, it will look vibrant and crisp on the Ultra’s QHD+ display.” This capability bridges the gap between source quality and display potential, enhancing every viewing experience.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 series delivers a compelling blend of innovative AI capabilities, enhanced camera systems, and premium design refinements. With features like NowBrief, ProScaler, and advanced photography tools, these devices set a new benchmark for what smartphones can achieve in 2025. Each model is thoughtfully crafted to meet the diverse needs of users, whether they prioritize compact functionality, immersive displays, or cutting-edge performance.

Stay tuned for our upcoming unboxing experience and in-depth review, where we’ll dive deeper into the everyday usability, real-world performance, and unique details that make the Galaxy S25 series stand out.

The post Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Launch: A Hands-On Look at the New Features and Design first appeared on Yanko Design.