Apple iPhone over the years: Part 1

By: Rohit Yadav

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Updated on: 31-Aug-2022

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This was the first iPhone to be launched by Apple. Steve Jobs described the original iPhone as three devices in one: a “widescreen iPod with touch controls, a revolutionary mobile phone, and a breakthrough internet communications device.” It came with a large multitouch touchscreen with a single button at a time when physical keyboard was the norm. The original iPhone was futuristic but still lacked some key features including the lack of App Store and 3G connectivity which was new at the time. Most of the credit for today's smartphone form factor can be given to the original iPhone.

iPhone 3G: Getting up to date

With the introduction of the iPhone 3G, Apple fixed the majority of problems with the original iPhone. The iPhone 3G as the name suggests did feature 3G capabilities for high speed data transfer. This was also the first time Apple brought the App Store to the mass market, this gave developers the golden chance to introduce their code and apps to the majority of people. This inturn increased the value of owning an iPhone because of the useful apps. The introduction of the App Store really made the phones smart. It opened the door to endless possibilities of what can be done on a phone.

iPhone 3GS:“S” for speed

The iPhone 3GS on the surface was almost the same as the iPhone 3G. With the S model, Apple focused on improving the speed of the device and user experience. The iPhone 3GS was twice as fast as the iPhone 3G and it was the first time people got the option to copy and paste on an iPhone.

iPhone 4: the Glass Sandwich

With the introduction of the iPhone 4, Apple parted ways with the smooth design after three generations and brought in the new metal-glass sandwich design. The iPhone 4 was introduced as the thinnest smartphone at the time. It was the first iPhone to feature a front facing camera for FaceTime calls and it was the first iPhone capable of multitasking. Though not all was good for the iPhone 4, it faced several network issues which was later named as the “Antennagate”, Apple’s biggest scandal of all time.

iPhone 4S: S for Siri

The second S update of the iPhone largely followed the same concept of keeping the same design while improving the speed and bringing new features to the iPhone. The iPhone 4S was the first Apple smartphone to ship with Apple’s voice assistant, Siri. The phone also featured an all new 8 MP camera and redesigned antenna system to eliminate the network problems of the iPhone 4. This was also the last smartphone to be released before the demise of Apple’s founder Steve Jobs.

iPhone 5: Stretching out

The iPhone 5 was the second major redesign to the iPhone. The phone grew to incorporate a 4” widescreen. It also dropped the glass sandwich design and used aluminium chassis that made the device lighter. This was also the first time we saw the new and reversible Lightning Connector which replaced the old 30-pin port. With the introduction of the iPhone 5, Apple started diving into large form factors smartphones.

Apple iPhone 5S: Future of Silicon

The iPhone 5S was one of the most influential smartphones of the time. This was the first mass market smartphone to be powered by a 64-bit processor with the A7 chip. It also came with an overhauled OS design with the iOS7 for a cleaner look. Though like other S updates there were very little changes seen in the design. The only major redesign was the addition of the Touch ID, Apple’s fingerprint scanner which was successful enough to make biometric unlocking a norm. The introduction of a 64-bit processor flipped the industry and became one of the turning points in the processor industry.

iPhone 5C: C for Colour

This was the first time Apple launched two iPhones in one day. The iPhone 5C had the same specs as the older iPhone 5 in a colourful polycarbonate shell. This was also one of the first iPhone which was deemed a failure due to the excessive price which made it unable to compete with the android devices in the budget segment.

iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus: Big and Bigger

This was the first time Apple finally launched a large size phone. The iPhone 6 featured a 4.7” display while the iPhone 6 Plus came with a 5.5” display. Other than the screen, the iPhone 6 series introduced an all new design with curved edges. Both phones also featured an improved camera system and introduction of NFC capabilities for mobile payments. The iPhone 6 series was not as sturdy as the previous models and would easily bend, which led to another scandal, the “Bendgate”. The introduction of the larger iPhones made fans go crazy around the world. To this date the iPhone 6 series has been the most sold smartphone ever.

iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus: Gaining Weight

Another S year came with another similar looking iPhones. The design of the iPhone 6S and the iPhone 6S Plus were identical to that of their predecessors. This was the first time Apple launched an update that was thicker and heavier, this was done to make the device strong to eliminate the bendgate. The 6S series also introduced an all new pressure sensitive display named 3D Touch, it was a nifty feature but failed to be a mainstream one. The iPhone 6S also bought an all new 12 MP camera system and support for 4K video recording.

iPhone SE: Blast from the Past

Apple surprised the world in the beginning of 2016 with the mid-cycle iPhone SE release. The affordable iPhone has all the same speedy internals as the iPhone 6S in an older design that looked identical to the iPhone 5S. This was the device for the people who were not ready to shift to a large smartphone. It was also Apple’s first entry in the affordable smartphone market.

Apple iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus: Courageous Omissions

With the iPhone 7 series, Apple further refined the design seen with the iPhone 6 series and 6S series. The iPhone 7 series offered a better camera system and for the first time came up with water resistance certification. The iPhone 7 Plus introduced a second 2x telephoto camera unit. With iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, Apple ditched the mechanical home button in favour of capacitive look-alike. This was also the time Apple ditched the headphone jack. The iPhone 7 series brought a major shift in the smartphone industry. Due to the lack of the headphone jack, Apple did face a lot of criticism but soon the whole industry followed Apple’s path making the 3.5 mm headphone jack disappear slowly.

This marks the end of the first part of the article. Continue reading at Apple iPhone over the years: Part 2

Made in India Smartphone Shipment Increased by 6% YoY in 2024, Samsung on Top

By: Suraj

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Updated on: 22-Mar-2025

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According to the market research firm, the shipment of Made in India smartphones increased by 6% year over year (YoY) in 2024. While Samsung and Vivo dominated the market share, the combined share of Samsung, Vivo, and Apple accounted for 94% of total smartphone exports, benefiting from India's PLI scheme. Additionally, Dixon was India's biggest manufacturer of smartphones and feature phones, seeing a whopping 39% YoY growth.

Growth in Made in India Smartphone Exports

Counterpoint Research's 'Make in India' Service states that Samsung maintained its top spot as a leading smartphone manufacturer in India, with a 6% year-over-year growth in manufacturing and a 13% year-over-year increase in global exports. This smartphone brand also enjoyed a 20% market share in the Indian smartphone market. Vivo, with its 14% market share, ranked second. The offline expansion and streamlined distribution network contribute to Vivo's growth.

However, Oppo saw a 34% decline in shipments, slipping to fourth place. The analysis revealed that Dixon saw 39% year-over-year growth, benefiting from the partnership with Transsion brands and Realme. Dixon is also the top manufacturer of smartphones and feature phones in the country.

Tata Electronics was the fastest-growing smartphone manufacturer in 2024, with a 107% year-over-year growth. Counterpoint research states that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 were the major volumes in production. The leading electronics manufacturer has ventured into semiconductor fabrication with a factory in Haryana and is developing an Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) plant in Assam.

DBG Technology, the smartphone manufacturer for brands like Xiaomi and Realme, has seen double-digit growth. Counterpoint research also states that smartphone production in India will further rise to double-digit growth.

Vivo Y19e Budget Smartphone Launches in India, Priced from Rs 7,999

By: Suraj

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Updated on: 21-Mar-2025

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Vivo, the Chinese smartphone brand, has introduced its budget range Y19e smartphone in India. With the Vivo Y19e mobile launch, the brand expanded its Y-series lineup and claimed to offer the segment’s biggest 5500mAh battery pack.

The Vivo Y19e is powered by a Unisoc T7225 octa-core processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB of onboard storage. It also boasts military-grade durability and IP64 certification, which protects against dust and water splash.

Vivo Y19e Price & Availability in India

Vivo Y19e smartphone is available in single 4GB RAM and 64GB onboard storage option and has a showroom price of Rs 7,999. Vivo has offered two color options including Titanium Silver and Majestic Green. The smartphone is available on the Vivo India e-store, ecommerce platforms like Flipkart, and select retail stores.

Vivo V19e Specifications

Vivo Y19e boasts a 6.74-inch LCD with 1600 x 720 resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. The handset gets a Unisoc T7225 octa-core processor coupled with a single option of 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. However, the latest Y19e phone has software-based RAM expansion of up to 4GB while the storage can be extended by up to 2TB.

It runs on Android 14-based FunTouch OS 14 and features military-grade shock resistance certification and an IP64 dust and splash protection rating. Additionally, this Vivo smartphone has a dual-camera setup on the rear panel, including a 13-megapixel primary lens and a 0.08-megapixel secondary sensor. In the front profile, Vivo has offered a 5-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls.

Although the camera isn’t very capable, it supports AI tools like AI Erase and AI Enhance, which can further improve the photo and video quality and help remove unwanted objects. The Vivo Y19e also gets the segment’s biggest 5500mAh battery pack, capable of delivering a full-day backup.

Google Pixel 9a Launches in India, Featuring Flagship G4 Chipset & 5100mAh Battery

By: Suraj

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Updated on: 20-Mar-2025

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Technology giant Google has launched its much-anticipated Google Pixel 9a smartphone in India and the global market. This latest addition to the Google Pixel phone lineup offers an impressive range of specifications and directly competes with Apple’s newest offering, the iPhone 16e smartphone.

The Google Pixel 9a is a premium mobile device powered by a Google Tensor G4 chipset that delivers outstanding performance on day-to-day tasks, multitasking, and gaming. Google has reportedly enhanced the smartphone’s hardware and updated its design to make it more appealing to a broader audience. Let’s explore the key specifications and pricing details of the Google Pixel 9a in India.

Google Pixel 9a Price in India

Google Pixel 9a is launched in India in a single variant with 8GB RAM and 256GB onboard storage. The brand offers several color options, including Iris, Obsidian, Peony, and Porcelain. The Pixel 9a is priced at Rs 49,999 in India. Additionally, a limited-time dashboard offer allows buyers to save up to Rs 3,000.

A Tough Rival for iPhone 16e

The newest addition of Pixel 9a in the Google smartphone lineup sets tough competition for premium smartphones in India, especially the iPhone 16e, which is available at Rs 59,900 with a 128GB storage option. However, the higher-spec 256GB variant of the iPhone 16e is priced at Rs 69,900, making the Pixel 9a comparatively affordable.

Google Pixel 9a Specifications

Google Pixel 9a smartphone boasts a 6.3-inch POLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 2700 nits of peak brightness. It also gets Gorilla Glass 3 for display protection. Moreover, the Pixel 9a receives Google’s flagship Tensor G4 chipset with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. Google has offered a dual rear camera setup featuring a 48-megapixel primary sensor and a 13-megapixel ultrawide sensor. The Pixel 9a houses a 13-megapixel front camera for selfies and video calls. To keep the mobile running, Google has provided a 5,100mAh battery pack that supports 23W fast charging.

Along with India, the Google Pixel 9a is also launched in global markets, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, and the Netherlands. However, Google hasn’t confirmed the date of the sale for its Pixel 9a mobile, requiring customers to either rely on local stores or wait for further news in the coming weeks.

Samsung One UI 7 to Roll Out on April 7, Eligible Devices List

By: Suraj

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Updated on: 19-Mar-2025

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Samsung, the Korean smartphone brand, recently announced that it will roll out Android 15-based One UI 7 for the Galaxy S24 series and older devices on April 7. In the press release, Samsung emphasized that the One UI 7 “comes with simple, impactful, and emotive design” to develop interest among Samsung smartphone users. The Samsung One UI 7 will be available for the Galaxy S24 Series, Galaxy Z Flip 6, and Galaxy Z Fold 6.

In the weeks after its official release, Samsung One UI 7 will also be offered in other Samsung phones, such as the Galaxy S24 FE, Galaxy S23 Series, Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Z Flip 5, Galaxy Z Fold 5, Galaxy Tab S10, and Galaxy Tab S9 series. Samsung first revealed its One UI 7 in the Galaxy S25 series, launched in January.

Based on Android 15, this recent update has a lot of visual changes to offer, along with new features like redesigned icons, new widgets, enhanced lock screen customization, and integration of the Gemini feature. The update has a new “Now bar” feature, which showcases iPhone-like live activities on the lock screen.

Samsung One UI 7 also has AI-powered features like AI Select, Writing Assist, Drawing Assist, and Audio Eraser. While Samsung has a good reputation for launching timely updates, it’s the first time the brand hasn’t updated its smartphones to the latest version of Android. Here are the Samsung devices that will be receiving the latest One UI 7:

• Samsung Galaxy S24, S24 Plus, S24 Ultra, and S24 FE
• Galaxy S23, S23 Plus, S23 Ultra, S23 FE
• Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6
• Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5
• Galaxy Tab S10 Plus and S10 Ultra
• Galaxy Tab S9, S9 Plus, and S9 Ultra

Several flagship Samsung smartphones launched in the last couple of years, including the Galaxy S23 series, are backed by four years of OS updates. Therefore, smartphones not mentioned in the list will have to wait a few weeks to months to receive the latest Samsung One UI 7 update.

Lenovo Idea Tab Pro With Dimensity 8300 SoC Launched in India, Check Price & Other Specs

By: Suraj

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Updated on: 18-Mar-2025

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Lenovo has launched its Idea Tab Pro in India, offering capable performance, immersive audio experience, and smart features. The newly launched Lenovo Idea Tab Pro has AI features and MediaTek Dimensity 8300 SoC. This Android tablet has a 12.7-inch 3K resolution display with JBL-tuned quad speakers with Dolby Atmos support. Additionally, it is compatible with the Lenovo Tab Pen Plus and paired with pogo-pin connectors for keyboard integration. The table also has Lenovo Smart Control, enabling users to connect their smartphones and PCs with this portable device.

Lenovo Idea Tab Pro Price in India

Lenovo Idea Tab Pro is offered in a Luna Grey color option. The Lenovo Idea Tab Pro 8GB + 128GB onboard storage is priced at Rs 27,999, while its 12GB + 256GB variant has been priced at Rs 30,999. Both variants are equipped with Lenovo's Tab Pen Plus without adding extra cost to buyers.

Lenovo Idea Tab Pro Availability

Customers can purchase Idea Tab Pro from the Lenovo India e-store. However, an Amazon microsite promotion confirms that the device will be available on the e-commerce platform on March 21.

Lenovo Idea Tab Pro Specifications

This tablet from Lenovo is equipped with AI features, including Google's Circle to Search and Gemini. Lenovo also offers a Translate Without Switching App feature that helps users translate texts instantly. Additionally, the consumer electronics maker has provided Lenovo Tab Pen Plus that helps users circle content to perform quick searches on Google.

The Lenovo Idea Tab Pro boasts a 12.7-inch 3K (1840 x 2944 pixels) display with a 144 Hz refresh rate and 400 nits of brightness. Moreover, it's powered by MediaTek Dimensity 8300 SoC coupled with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB onboard storage. The table is shipped with Android 14-based Lenovo ZUI 16 OS. Lenovo has announced to offer two major OS updates (up to Android 16) and four years of security patches till 2029. Additionally, it gets quad JBL speakers enhanced by Dolby Atmos. It gets a Lenovo Tab Pen Plus stylus, Folio Case, and Tab Pro 2-in-1 keyboard as accessories.

This Lenovo tab has a 13-megapixel rear camera and an 8-megapixel front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. The device gets a 10,200mAh battery with 45W wired charging support, and for connectivity, it receives Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and a USB Type-C 3.2 Gen1 port. It also gets a side mounted fingerprint scanner for added security. The Lenovo Idea Tab Pro measures 189.1 mm x 291.8 mm x 6.9 mm and weighs around 615g.