Tecno is a smartphone brand that has steadily built a strong presence in emerging markets, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia, thanks to its budget-friendly yet feature-packed devices. The brand’s Spark series has always been a hit with younger users, offering a stylish design and solid performance at an accessible price. With the launch of the Tecno Spark 30 series, the company has taken things up a notch, introducing something truly unique: a collaboration with the iconic Transformers franchise.

This collaboration brings two special editions to the Spark 30 lineup: the Bumblebee-themed Spark 30 and the Optimus Prime-themed Spark 30 Pro. We were fortunate enough to get our hands on the Optimus Prime-themed Spark 30 Pro, a device that combines budget-friendly specs with a design that will surely excite Transformers fans. But does this phone live up to the hype? In this review, we’ll dive into the features, performance, and overall value of the Optimus Prime Spark 30 Pro, and see if it’s worth adding to your collection—or if it’s just another gimmicky release.

Designer: Tecno

Aesthetics

Before you even pick up the phone, it’s clear that Tecno didn’t just slap the Transformer name on the back of the Spark 30 Pro. They’ve carefully crafted every detail, going far beyond simple branding. It starts right at the packaging, making the unboxing experience a true delight.

The phone arrives in a special box with an outer sleeve that unfolds to reveal Optimus Prime or, in the case of the other edition, Bumblebee. The double-door box, adorned with the Autobot logo, opens from the center to reveal the phone, wrapped in a Transformers-themed material. Beneath the compartment that houses the phone is a hidden drawer where the 33W charger brick, a USB-A to USB-C cable, wired earbuds, and warranty paperwork all reside. Unfortunately, these accessories come in plain white without any Transformer-themed details.

The phone itself boasts a visually striking design inspired by Optimus Prime. The back cover features a sleek, metallic finish that mirrors the Autobot leader’s signature color scheme: deep reds and blues with chrome accents. The design incorporates etched details that add visual depth, though these details are buried beneath a clear plastic panel, making the texture purely visual rather than tactile.

The circular camera island, positioned in the top right, houses the camera and LED flash, featuring additional Optimus Prime references with the red and blue color rings and text reading “Optimus Prime Altruistic Protective”. A silver Autobot symbol sits at the bottom right corner of the phone, while the Tecno Spark and Transformer names are stacked vertically on the opposite side.

Overall, the design of the device is a fun and tasteful tribute to the Transformers universe, sure to delight any fan of the franchise. At the same time, the design isn’t in your face that only Transformers fans will appreciate it, though few outside that fandom will immediately associate it with the heroic robot. In fact, any fan of sci-fi or metallic aesthetics, with an inclination towards blue, red, and white colors, might also find it quite appealing.

Ergonomics

The Tecno Spark 30 Pro Optimus Prime Edition features a slim profile, measuring just 7.4mm in thickness, making it lightweight and comfortable to hold. While it offers comfort, the phone’s plastic construction feels somewhat less durable compared to higher-end models. I’ve used plenty of phones with plastic backs, but this one feels, well, very plasticky.

The other notable downside is that the back panel is highly prone to fingerprints and smudges. The glossy surface requires frequent cleaning to maintain its pristine look, as even the slightest touch leaves visible marks. While the smooth finish gives the device a sleek appearance, its tendency to attract grime can can definitely take away from its appeal.

The side frame is also made of glossy plastic, which, like the back panel, is a fingerprint and smudge magnet. In terms of physical layout, the right side houses the volume rocker and power button, while the left side features a dual-SIM + micro SD card tray. On the bottom edge, you’ll find the 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C port, and primary speaker, with the secondary speaker positioned at the top.

One odd thing is the placement of the headphone jack which is not centered and sits very close to the bottom edge. The SIM tray is also a little off-center, which gives the phone a slightly cheap vibe. These minor design quirks, but they do make the phone feel a little less polished.

Performance

As a special Transformers edition, the Tecno Spark 30 Pro comes loaded with exclusive wallpapers and icon designs, bringing the world of Autobots and Decepticons right to your fingertips. You can choose from two Optimus Prime wallpapers or two Bumblebee wallpapers, along with other non-Transformers-themed options to further personalize your device. If you’re feeling creative, there’s also an AI Wallpaper Generator that lets you design unique, custom wallpapers to match your style.

Under the hood, the phone comes with MediaTek Helio G100 paired with either 128 GB or 256 GB of storage and 8 GB of RAM (expandable to 16 GB), offering solid performance for daily tasks including gaming. While it might not compete with flagship devices in sheer power, it gets the job done smoothly, and it comes with a 5-year lag-free performance warranty for peace of mind.

The Spark 30 Pro runs HiOS 14.5 based on Android 14. Tecno has brought plenty of AI features including thehese include the previously mentioned AI Wallpaper Generator, AI Artboard for turning sketches into artwork, AI Eraser for photo editing, and the AI voice assistant Ella.

When it comes to the display, the 6.78-inch AMOLED screen is a huge step up from its predecessor, the Spark 20 Pro, which had an LCD. The new display offers a 1080 x 2436 resolution (Full HD+) and a 120Hz refresh rate, making scrolling and navigation feel smooth. It also gets plenty bright, with a peak brightness of 1700 nits, making it easy to view in direct sunlight.

The screen looks vibrant and crisp, and for a more comfortable viewing experience, the phone comes with 2160Hz PWM dimming, which helps reduce screen flicker—especially useful in low light, so your eyes won’t get as tired after long sessions. The stereo dual speakers with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio support deliver loud and immersive sound to complement this very capable display.

Another neat addition is the under-display fingerprint sensor, which works reliably. And if you’re the type who uses your phone around moisture (rain, sweat, or just damp fingers), the Wet Touch Control ensures the screen stays responsive even when it’s a little wet.

A 5,000 mAh battery keeps you going through a full day of average use, and the 33W wired charging capability means you won’t be waiting long to top it up. It’s definitely not the fastest in the market, but a charging time of around an hour from zero to full is still a lot better than some leading brands.

The device features a 108 MP rear camera with up to 10X zoom, capable of capturing decent photos in bright environments. On the front, there’s a 32 MP selfie camera with a dual-color LED flash. The flash lets you adjust both the intensity and color temperature across three different levels, giving you more control over your lighting for the perfect selfie.

1x

3x

1x

3x

Camera output is pretty decent, though it seems to lean more towards oversaturating colors to make a bigger impact. It’s biggest flaw is, of course, the fact that there’s only one camera doing the work of two or three. You can forget about ultra-wide shots, and zoomed in quality isn’t as good as a dedicated telephoto lens. Then again, this is a case of getting what you pay for.

1x, Portrait

2x, Portrait

Sustainability

The Tecno Spark 30 Pro boasts an A rating for TÜV SÜD’s 60-month fluency, meaning it’s designed to perform smoothly for up to 5 years. After 1,000 charge cycles, the battery retains over 80% of its original capacity, suggesting excellent long-term durability. Additionally, the phone features an IP54 rating, offering protection against water splashes and dust. This is a nice upgrade from its predecessor’s IP53 rating, making it more resilient to everyday wear and tear.

That said, while these durability features are a step in the right direction, we’d love to see more sustainability initiatives from the brand in the future, such as more eco-friendly materials in both the products and packaging. Given the limited edition design, it might be fine for low production numbers, but it’s also high time for Tecno to spark some interest in this aspect of its design philosophy.

Value

The Tecno Spark 30 Pro Optimus Prime Edition, priced around $200 USD (depending on the market), stands out as a unique contender in the budget smartphone space. While the Optimus Prime-themed design is the most obvious draw, it’s far from the only reason to consider this handset. Like most budget phones, there are a few compromises. It’s not going to offer the absolute best processor or camera compared to some competitors. The camera situation, in particular, is a bit disappointing when even an 8MP ultra-wide shooter would do wonders for your dramatic panoramas.

But what it does offer is a distinctive design and a well-rounded set of features, including a vivid screen, a large battery, and ample memory. If you’re a Transformers fan looking for a budget-friendly device that still packs a punch, the Tecno Spark 30 Pro Optimus Prime Edition is definitely worth a look.

Verdict

The Tecno Spark 30 Pro Optimus Prime Edition is a truly one-of-a-kind design that’s sure to spark joy for any Transformers fan. With the bold Optimus Prime branding and thoughtful design details, this phone really brings the iconic character to life. Whether it’s the sleek, futuristic look or the nostalgic charm, the Spark 30 Pro Optimus Prime Edition stands out in a way that’s hard to miss. 

It’s a budget-friendly device that gets a lot of things right: a large AMOLED display, solid battery life, a 108 MP rear camera, and a 5-year lag-free performance guarantee. These are all impressive features at its price point, especially for users looking for a phone that offers good value without breaking the bank. If you’re a fan of the franchise, this phone offers a unique way to carry a piece of the Transformers universe with you, all while adding a touch of flair to your everyday tech.

The post Tecno Spark 30 Pro Optimus Prime Edition Review: Budget-Friendly Solid-Performer, Roll Out! first appeared on Yanko Design.

In an ever-evolving smartphone market, Realme has carved out a niche for itself by offering cutting-edge technology at accessible price points, primarily targeting young users who crave high-performance devices without the premium cost. Known for its bold design philosophy and focus on youth-centric innovation, Realme continues to push boundaries with the launch of the Realme 14 series.

Positioned as the brand’s mid-range camera phone, realme’s number series has enjoyed collaborations with renowned designers like Matteo Menotto (realme 11 Pro series) and Olliver Saveo (realme 12 Pro series), to name a few. As the first release in the reimagined realme Number Series, realme teamed up with acclaimed Nordic industrial design studio Valeur Designers to showcase a sleek, modern aesthetic, embodying Realme’s dedication to seamlessly blending style with performance.

The Realme 14 Pro+ packs a punch with its high-refresh-rate AMOLED display, powerful chipset, and advanced camera capabilities, making it a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone segment. In this review, we’ll dive deeper into how the Realme 14 Pro+ balances performance, design, and value to meet the needs of its tech-driven audience.

Designer: realme

Aesthetics

Realme has emphasized design as a key element of its brand identity, and the realme 14 Pro+ exemplifies this focus. The device stands out in the smartphone market, largely due to its collaboration with the Nordic industrial design studio, Valeur Designers. This partnership led to the development of the “Pearl Design,” which draws inspiration from marine life.
One of the standout features of the device is its back panel, which introduces a world-first cold-sensitive color-changing technology. Using thermochromic pigments, the panel responds to temperature fluctuations, shifting from a soft pearl white to a vibrant blue when the temperature drops below 16°C (60.8°F).

As the temperature rises above this threshold, the color gradually returns to its original pearl white. Over time, the color-changing effect will naturally fade with regular use — realme estimates this process to take around 12 months. While some may view this as a limitation, it adds a layer of organic, even human-like quality to the device.

In a conversation with Torsten, the lead designer at Valeur Design, during an interview in Copenhagen, he shared an intriguing perspective. He pointed out how odd it is that we spend so much of our day interacting with our phones — often more than with actual people — yet the devices themselves remain largely static and unchanging, and almost lifeless.

In contrast, the realme 14 Pro+ offers a dynamic, evolving aspect that feels warmer and more connected to us. Instead of being a static object, the phone evolves with its user, responding to environmental changes in a way that mirrors the dynamic, ever-changing nature of human experience. This shift in design philosophy provides a more intimate, almost living quality to the device, making it feel less like a tool and more like a companion that grows alongside us.

The 14 Pro+ is available in two color variants: Pearl White and Suede Grey. While both options offer a clean, modern aesthetic, the Pearl White version stands out with its unique color-changing back panel. Additionally, the Pearl White variant is finished with a shell-like texture, enhanced with organic seashell powder for a distinctive tactile feel. For those who prefer a more understated design, the Suede Grey variant provides a minimalist look with a soft, vegan suede leather finish that offers both a refined appearance and a smooth, luxurious touch.

Ergonomics

The realme 14 Pro+ stands out for its thoughtful ergonomic design, with Valeur Designers and realme paying close attention to comfort, making it easy to use for extended periods. One of the key features contributing to this is its quad-curved back cover, which is carefully shaped to fit naturally in the palm. This design not only enhances the phone’s aesthetics but also improves overall comfort, especially during prolonged use.

At just 7.99 mm thick, the 14 Pro+ is noticeably slimmer than its predecessor, the realme 13 Pro+, which measures 8.41 mm. This reduction in thickness, combined with a well-distributed weight, ensures the phone feels light yet substantial, striking a balanced mix of portability and premium quality.

The Pearl White variant of the 14 Pro+ measures 163.51 x 77.34 x 7.99 mm and weighs 194 grams, providing a lightweight feel that still feels durable. The Suede Grey variant, slightly thicker at 8.29 mm and weighing 196 grams, adds a tactile layer of luxury with its vegan suede leather finish, enhancing its overall premium appearance and texture.

The realme 14 Pro+ combines comfort, usability, and style. Its slim build and carefully designed ergonomic features make it a pleasure to handle, whether you’re browsing, gaming, or using it for day-to-day tasks, all while providing a premium feel in hand.

Performance

The realme 14 Pro+ is not just a visual marvel; it also excels in delivering class-leading performance that caters to both everyday users and tech enthusiasts. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, it offers smooth multitasking and responsive performance across apps, work tasks, and entertainment. It runs realme UI 6.0 based on Android 15 out of the box. To keep things cool during extended use, the handset features a 6,000mm² 3D Vapor Chamber Cooling System, the largest in its class, which helps manage heat during intensive activities like gaming.

The 14 Pro+ is equipped with a 6,000mAh battery, enhanced by realme’s Flex Pack technology, offering 15% more capacity and up to 20% longer battery life than its predecessor, according to Realme. Combined with 80W wired fast charging, it ensures reliable all-day use and quick power recovery.

The device has a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution (2800 x 1272) and a 120Hz refresh rate, providing clear and smooth visuals. With a peak brightness of 1500 nits, it performs well even in bright environments. The 14 Pro+ features a symmetrical quad-curved design, adding to its sleek look. Additionally, it incorporates 3840 PWM ultra-high-frequency dimming technology to reduce flicker and minimize eye strain during extended use.

Main, 1x

Main, 1x

Main, 1x, Night Mode

For imaging, the realme 14 Pro+ brings incremental improvements in hardware. The primary camera is a 50MP Sony IMX 896 sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), featuring a 1/1.56-inch sensor and an f/1.8 aperture. Alongside it is a 50MP Sony IMX 882 OIS periscope camera, with a 1/1.95-inch sensor and f/2.65 aperture, offering 3X optical zoom, 6X in-sensor zoom, and up to 120X digital zoom. The ultra-wide camera is an 8MP sensor with a 112-degree field of view and f/2.2 aperture. For selfies, the front camera boasts a 32MP Sony sensor with an f/2.0 aperture.

Ultrawide, 0.6x

Main, 1x

Main, 2x

In good lighting, both the main and telephoto cameras capture sharp, vibrant photos with a good dynamic range. Exposure is generally well-balanced, though they can struggle with motion, particularly in low-light conditions.

Telephoto, 3x

Telephoto, 6x

Telephoto, 10x

The MagicGlow Triple Flash is designed for night portraits, allowing you to adjust the light’s color temperature to capture more natural skin tones in challenging lighting conditions. Video capabilities include 4K 30FPS recording on both front and rear cameras, with slo-mo options at 1080p 120FPS or 720p 240FPS for the rear camera.

With Fill Light (Left), Without Fill Light (Right)

Sustainability

The realme 14 Pro+ integrates sustainability into its design, using fusion fiber for the back cover, made from 95% eco-friendly materials. This biodegradable material reduces environmental impact while being energy-efficient.

With IP68, IP69, and IP65 ratings for dust and water resistance, along with TÜV Rheinland Rugged Smartphone Certification, the device is built for durability. This robust construction extends its lifespan, reducing the need for replacements and helping minimize electronic waste.

Value

The realme 14 Pro+ starts from approximately $325 USD for the 8GB/128GB variant. The 14 Pro+ positions itself as a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone market, offering a compelling mix of performance, design, and sustainability at a competitive price point.

The device offers a combination of high-end features, a symmetrical quad-curved display, a 120Hz AMOLED display, a periscope telephoto camera, a large VC cooling system, a 6,000mAh battery, all packed into a sleek, ergonomic design.

Verdict

The realme 14 Pro+ is a standout in the mid-range smartphone segment, delivering a blend of innovative design, robust performance, and sustainability. Its collaboration with Valeur Designers has resulted in a device that not only looks and feels premium but also offers a unique, dynamic aesthetic with its color-changing back panel. This feature, alongside the ergonomic quad-curved design, makes it a joy to handle and a conversation starter.

Priced competitively at around $325 USD, the device offers exceptional value, blending high-end features typically reserved for more expensive models. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish, high-performance device that aligns with modern sustainability values without breaking the bank.

The realme 14 Pro+ is a compelling option for young, tech-driven users who desire a device that combines cutting-edge technology, innovative design, and environmental responsibility. It successfully balances style, functionality, and value, making it a worthy contender in the crowded smartphone market.

The post Realme 14 Pro+ Review: A Mid-Range Wonder with Style and An Affordable Price first appeared on Yanko Design.

PROS:

• Variety for Users: Options for everyday use, high performance, and a collector’s Iron Man Edition.


• Striking Design: The Iron Man Edition’s 3D helmet and Arc Reactor cater to Marvel fans.


• Strong Performance: The X7 Pro’s Dimensity 8400-Ultra excels in gaming and multitasking.


• Long Battery Life: Durable batteries with reliable fast charging.


• Versatile Cameras: Features like Golden Portrait Mode enhance photographic quality.

CONS:

• Camera Edge Performance: The ultra-wide lens occasionally struggles with distortion, particularly at the edges, which could impact landscape shots.


• Software Experience: Advanced AI features may feel less intuitive for some users.


• Heat Management on X7: While the X7 Pro excels with advanced cooling, the X7 can warm up slightly under heavy workloads, impacting prolonged performance.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Bold design meets powerful performance, with the POCO X7 series offering something for everyone—including the stunning Iron Man Edition for Marvel fans.

Smartphones come in countless shapes, sizes, and flavors, but the POCO X7 series provides three distinct experiences under one umbrella. You’ve got the POCO X7, a solid daily driver offering capable performance and a big display without pushing your budget to the brink. Then there’s the POCO X7 Pro, which ramps up horsepower, battery life, and AI features for those who demand more from their mobile devices. Finally, there’s the POCO X7 Pro – Iron Man Edition, a collector’s piece that wraps that Pro-level performance in an Iron Man–themed exterior, complete with a raised and tactile 3D version of the iconic helmet and Arc Reactor on its back panel. It’s a collaboration with Marvel that puts Tony Stark’s signature red-and-gold palette right into your hand.

Designer: POCO

In this review, I’ll walk you through what each phone brings to the table, focusing on seven main areas: an introduction to the devices, an in-depth look at their designs, a discussion of ergonomics, a dive into performance, a consideration of anything they might offer for sustainability, an assessment of their value, and a final wrap-up that weighs which phone best fits different kinds of users. The POCO X7 series provides a wide range of choices depending on how much power you need, how much battery life you want, how much you care about design, and even whether you love Marvel enough to pay a premium for an Iron Man–themed phone. If you’ve been eyeing any phone in this lineup, you’ll have a clearer picture of their strengths and weaknesses by the end of this review.

On a broad level, all three devices share some significant similarities: each has a 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED display with up to 120Hz refresh and a high touch sampling rate, each one is IP68 water- and dust-resistant, and each phone includes a large-capacity battery paired with speedy charging. They’re also all 5G-ready, come with solid camera setups, and feature advanced software with a range of AI-driven tools, plus all the usual connectivity you’d expect (like NFC and dual SIM slots). But that doesn’t mean they’re all the same. The X7 Pro is significantly more powerful than the X7, and the Iron Man Edition advances the X7 Pro’s design into something practically a fandom art. Let’s start by looking at these differences in design since that’s often the first thing people notice when picking up a phone.

Design

The POCO X7 Pro – Iron Man Edition shines as a design masterpiece, combining superhero aesthetics with premium craftsmanship. Its exterior is a visual homage to Iron Man’s iconic suit, featuring a deep red and metallic gold palette that immediately grabs attention. The back panel boasts a raised 3D relief of Iron Man’s helmet and Arc Reactor, created with a sculptural technique for tactile and visual depth. The helmet’s matte finish subtly shimmers under light, while the Arc Reactor’s layered metallic serrations reflect light brilliantly, resembling fine jewelry. An embossed Avengers logo at the bottom adds another layer of detail, appealing to both touch and sight.

Inside, the Iron Man Edition immerses users in Tony Stark’s world with a custom interface that mirrors his futuristic lab displays. Red app borders, dynamic animations, and tailored design elements enhance the user experience, making the phone as unique inside as it is outside. The packaging elevates the presentation further, featuring a mechanical lift structure, Iron Man suit blueprints, a faux-leather case embossed with circuitry patterns and gold highlights, and a SIM ejector tool shaped like the Arc Reactor. Every detail reinforces its connection to Marvel, making this phone a must-have for fans and collectors.

From an ergonomic perspective, the raised 3D relief of the helmet and Arc Reactor provide natural grip points, ensuring the phone feels secure during use. The included vegan leather case adds a layer of comfort with its soft, textured finish, and the phone’s curved edges enhance usability by fitting naturally into the palm. These thoughtful touches make the Iron Man Edition not only visually captivating but also practical for everyday use.

POCO X7 and X7 Pro feature a 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED display with a curved edge

The X7 and X7 Pro share a unified foundation, featuring a 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED display with curved edges and IP68 protection for durability. While both models are visually distinct, they cater to different design preferences. The X7 leans into minimalism, offering Black, Green, and Silver finishes with either a lightweight plastic back or a vegan leather back for added grip and texture. This simple design focuses on practicality, with the camera module serving as the primary visual highlight, making it a great option for users who prefer understated aesthetics.

The X7 Pro, on the other hand, takes a more dynamic approach. Its defining feature is the racetrack-shaped Deco design, with flowing Bézier curves around the camera module that create a sense of motion. This detail, accentuated under shifting light, brings energy to its appearance. Offered in Black, Green, or a vibrant Yellow finish, the X7 Pro appeals to those who enjoy bold, attention-grabbing designs. Together, the X7 and X7 Pro provide a balance of subtlety and flair, ensuring that users have distinct yet practical choices.

Ergonomics

Fans of Iron Man will appreciate how the raised 3D relief of the helmet and Arc Reactor combines striking visuals with functional design. These sculptural elements enhance the tactile experience, adding secure grip points that make the device feel natural and confident in hand. Paired with the vegan leather case, embossed with intricate circuitry and gold accents, the design delivers a premium feel that’s both comfortable and distinctive.

For the POCO X7 and X7 Pro, the focus shifts to practical ergonomics. The 3D Dual-Curved display is designed to rest comfortably in the hand, with rounded edges that minimize palm strain during extended use. The vegan leather back panel option adds a soft, textured finish that improves grip and reduces the chance of slips. High brightness levels—reaching 3200 nits on the X7 Pro—ensure easy screen readability in bright environments, while TÜV Rheinland certifications for blue light reduction support prolonged viewing without discomfort. The POCO X7 lineup effectively balances thoughtful design and daily comfort, ensuring each device feels as good to hold as it looks.

Performance

Performance is a key factor in choosing a phone, and the POCO X7 lineup caters to various needs with well-defined capabilities across its models.

Starting with the POCO X7 Pro steps up significantly in terms of raw power. At its core is the Dimensity 8400-Ultra processor, featuring an All-Big-Core setup where all eight CPU cores are performance-focused, clocking up to an impressive 3.25GHz. This ensures tasks like video editing, advanced photo retouching, and heavy multitasking are handled seamlessly. The upgraded Mali-G720 GPU enhances graphics rendering, delivering smooth performance during resource-heavy gaming or 4K video playback.

Real-world gaming tests showcase the X7 Pro’s prowess in popular titles like “Diablo Immortal,” “Apex Legends Mobile,” and “Honkai: Star Rail,” where it maintained steady frame rates at high settings. Thanks to its LiquidCool Technology 4.0 and 3D IceLoop System, the phone effectively dissipates heat, ensuring consistent performance without throttling, even during extended gaming sessions. This advanced cooling system allows gamers to enjoy longer playtimes without the phone becoming uncomfortably hot, providing smooth gameplay during intense battles or detailed open-world exploration. Reliable cooling like this is critical for gamers, as it ensures consistently high frame rates and avoids frustrating slowdowns during crucial moments.

The Iron Man Edition has the same internal specs as the X7 Pro and delivers identical high-end performance. This means users can enjoy top-tier speed and capability while embracing the collectible aesthetics of the Iron Man branding. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a combination of powerful performance and unique design.

The POCO X7, powered by the Dimensity 7300-Ultra processor, offers reliable efficiency for everyday tasks. Built on a 4nm process, it can clock up to 2.5GHz, making it sufficient for streaming, casual gaming, multitasking, and general phone usage. For users upgrading from an older POCO device, this model delivers a noticeable 12% performance boost. Additionally, the X7 includes Memory Extension 3.0, which can allocate a portion of internal storage to RAM, enabling up to 24GB of “effective” RAM on the 12GB version. This flexibility is especially useful when juggling multiple apps or handling large files.

Ultimately, the X7 is ideal for moderate users who prioritize value and steady performance for daily activities. The X7 Pro, with its advanced processing power and cooling solutions, is tailored for gamers, multitaskers, and users who demand efficiency under pressure. The Iron Man Edition adds a unique, fandom-focused twist while retaining the Pro’s exceptional capabilities.

POCO X7 Pro Camera Performance

The POCO X7 Pro enhances the X7’s camera capabilities with improved sensor performance and computational photography. Its 50MP main camera, equipped with the same Sony IMX882 sensor, benefits from enhanced dynamic range and noise reduction, delivering better results in high-contrast environments. The wider aperture and advanced algorithms effectively handle highlights and shadows, ensuring balanced exposure in challenging lighting conditions. Low-light photography is awe-inspiring, with the Pro model capturing more detail and exhibiting less grain than the standard X7.

The 8MP ultra-wide camera on the Pro also sees improvements in image processing, reducing distortion and maintaining a more consistent color profile across all lenses. While the X7’s ultra-wide camera has the exact same resolution, its improved image processing allows for slightly better overall quality.

On the front, the 20MP camera remains consistent with the X7, delivering reliable performance for selfies and group shots. Its AI-driven enhancements ensure natural-looking skin tones and vibrant details, even in suboptimal lighting conditions.

POCO X7 Camera Performance

The POCO X7’s camera system reflects versatility and adaptability, offering options catering to photographic needs. The 50MP main sensor provides good detail and clarity in various lighting conditions. Using the Sony IMX882 sensor with an f/1.5 aperture and 1.6μm 4-in-1 pixel technology, the main camera excels in bright scenarios, producing sharp, vibrant shots. Optical Image Stabilization ensures low-light performance remains reliable, as it minimizes blurring and enhances image sharpness even in challenging environments.

POCO has introduced a Golden Portrait Mode, designed to enhance portrait photography by delivering a professional-grade blurring effect. This feature replicates the aesthetic of high-end portrait lenses, creating a soft, natural background separation that emphasizes the subject. The 46mm effect, achieved through hardware zoom capabilities, mimics the perspective and compression typically found in traditional DSLR photography. This attention to detail delivers a sharper focus on the subject while adding depth to the image, making portraits appear more dynamic and visually striking. Capturing candid moments or curated shots, Golden Portrait Mode provides a polished, studio-like quality straight from the device.

The 8MP ultra-wide camera is designed for capturing expansive scenes, like landscapes or group events. While effective, the ultra-wide lens occasionally struggles with edge distortion, a common issue in cameras at this resolution. However, the field of view is a significant advantage for most casual shots, allowing photographers to capture scenes easily.

The 8MP ultra-wide camera is designed for capturing expansive scenes, like landscapes or group events. While effective, the ultra-wide lens occasionally struggles with edge distortion, a common issue in cameras at this resolution. However, the field of view is a significant advantage for most casual shots, allowing photographers to capture scenes easily.

Another impressive feature is the 20MP front-facing camera, which is equipped with tools to deliver vibrant and detailed selfies. The automatic 0.8x zoom adjustment benefits group photos, ensuring all subjects are included without compromising clarity.

Sustainability

Smartphone sustainability has become increasingly important, and POCO contributes to this by designing phones built to last longer. This approach reduces the frequency of replacements, which indirectly supports sustainability efforts. For instance, battery health is a common reason phones end up retired. Still, the POCO X7’s battery can retain over 80% capacity after 1,600 charge cycles, and the X7 Pro can retain 90% capacity after 1,000 cycles. By staying healthier over time, these batteries should let you hold onto your phone for a longer period, thereby creating less electronic waste.

They’re also built for durability. All three have an IP68 rating against water and dust, so it’s less likely you’ll ruin your phone with an accidental splash or a bit of debris. The X7 sports Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, while the Pro models have Gorilla Glass 7i. The idea is that these protective measures help the phone avoid daily hazards like drops or bumps, minimizing the need for repairs or replacements. The X7’s battery can perform reliably in cold conditions down to -10°C, making voice calls for up to 24 hours and staying on standby for up to 66 hours in those temps. If you value longevity, you can see these features as small wins for sustainability—no fancy packaging about carbon footprints, but a device that should last you a decent while before wearing out.

Value and Wrap-Up

Deciding between the POCO X7, X7 Pro, and X7 Pro – Iron Man Edition hinges on your needs and priorities. The POCO X7 is a strong contender for those seeking reliable performance on a budget. Its Dimensity 7300-Ultra processor handles everyday tasks easily, and the 6.67-inch AMOLED display delivers vibrant visuals. The durable 5110mAh battery and 45W fast charging ensure you stay powered throughout the day. With its classic design and robust features, the X7 is a practical choice for users looking for value without compromise.

The X7 Pro transforms the series with its cutting-edge Dimensity 8400-Ultra chipset, providing unmatched speed and exceptional efficiency. Designed for gamers and multitaskers, it delivers seamless performance for demanding applications and intensive tasks. The camera system performs well in lighting, providing good-quality photos and videos. Coupled with a 6000mAh battery and 90W HyperCharge, the X7 Pro is built for long-lasting and fast-paced use. Its racetrack-inspired design adds a bold visual appeal, making it a stylish yet high-performing choice.

The Iron Man Edition redefines what a collector’s device can be, blending the X7 Pro’s powerful hardware with unique design elements inspired by Tony Stark’s iconic suit. From the raised 3D relief of Iron Man’s helmet and Arc Reactor to the custom Marvel-themed user interface and exclusive packaging, it offers fans a unique experience. It maintains the same impressive camera and processing performance as the Pro model, ensuring its striking aesthetic doesn’t come at the cost of functionality.

Across the board, the POCO X7 lineup impresses with its high-quality displays, durable builds, and reliable battery life. Whether you prioritize affordability, cutting-edge performance, or standout design, there’s a model tailored to fit your lifestyle and preferences. By reflecting on your daily habits and needs, you can confidently choose the device that aligns with your goals.

The post POCO X7 Series Review: Everyday Performance, Pro-Level Power, and the Collector’s Appeal of the Iron Man Edition first appeared on Yanko Design.

The mid-range smartphone market is honestly more exciting than the flagship segment, at least in recent years. With more expensive flagships, you can almost accurately predict where they’re headed, but lower tiers can catch you off-guard with surprising upstarts and unexpected disappointments. There seems to be more wiggle room for experimentation here, giving brands the freedom to test out different combinations of features and designs.

Sometimes you get astounding mid-range flagships that make you question why you’d even bother with premium models when you can get nearly the same for so much less. Sometimes, however, you also get head-scratching disappointments that make you wonder what went wrong during that decisive board meeting. With the global launch of the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G, we get to revisit those questions to see on which side of the fence Xiaomi’s mid-range champ falls.

Designer: Xiaomi

Aesthetics

They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G’s design embodies that perfectly. Depending on where you stand, it’s either a bold and modern upstart or a tried and tired veteran. Compared to previous generations of Redmi Notes, the current flagship is admittedly the most stylish, the most modern, and the most elegant. It’s a design that finally catches up with more luxurious and more expensive devices in the market, finally giving Xiaomi a head-turning mid-range phone.

The slight problem with that is that the flagship market has also moved on from the sexy curves that once defined that category, curves that the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G flaunt so boldly. Both the back glass panel and the front display curve sharply at the side to meet the very thin mid-frame edge, definitely a classic aesthetic. Then again, there is no shortage of people who denounce the new flatness of today’s smartphones, so they might find some recourse in this design.

The camera design is just as ambiguous on more than one level. The “squircle” or “porthole” shape feels like it’s caught in the middle of a tug-of-war between square and camera designs. It does give it a bit of distinction, visually separating it from other designs. Despite the four circles in that large bump, the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G only has three cameras in reality, a deception that’s really the least of its offenses in this matter.

Ergonomics

There are benefits to this “classic” flagship design, thankfully. Some people find it more comfortable to hold a slab whose curves gently rest inside their hands. It makes reaching far edges a little easier, though the screen size is still an obstacle. The matte glass back tries to add a bit of grippiness, but only ever so slightly. Those who find the smooth and curved phone slipping frequently from their hands will appreciate the color-matching silicone case included in the box.

The large camera design also has an advantage because of how it’s placed in the middle of the phone’s back. It distributes the weight evenly across the width, giving it a bit more stability in your hand. It also prevents the phone from wobbling when you place it on a table and tap on the screen. It might seem like a minor annoyance, but it all adds up to a more pleasurable user experience.

Performance

The Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G is by no means a premium flagship phone, and it shows in the silicon that runs everything. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, an incremental upgrade from the previous-gen Qualcomm mid-range chip, performs quite well for many everyday tasks, including some light mobile gaming. It isn’t, however, going to give great results in more graphics-extensive applications and more resource-hungry processes like photo manipulation or on-device video editing. To put it into context, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 would be on par with a Snapdragon 870 or 888 from 2021.

A bit ironically, the bottleneck isn’t exactly the CPU but Xiaomi’s odd choice for memory and storage, LPDDR4X and UFS2.2, respectively. These are many generations behind the latest technologies, and even if you were considering cost-cutting reasons, it’s still too steep a performance drop to make, at least on paper. Thankfully, the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G does remain responsive under moderate load, despite the somewhat bloated design of its custom Android skin.

Fortunately, content looks gorgeous on the phone’s 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen with a maximum 120Hz resolution. Not only does it support 100% of the industry-standard DCI-P3 color gamut, it also has an incredible 3000 nits of peak brightness, making short work of sunny days. Paired with impressively decent audio, this makes the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ a great device for watching videos and playing games. The latter, however, might sometimes prove to be a bit tricky at times because of how content and controls could get a little distorted at the edges because of the curvature.

Another thing that makes this mid-range phone a great content consumption machine is the generous, 5110mAh battery, enough to last you a full day before plugging it in. When it comes time to do so, the 120W HyperCharge technology zooms from zero to full in less than forty minutes, presuming you’re using the included 120W charger. This story would have had a good ending if Xiaomi finally gave its mid-range flagship wireless charging support, but alas, that is still not the case.

Next to raw performance and battery life, cameras are the most critical features of a smartphone these days. One would presume that this is true across all market tiers, and for the most part, it is. That’s why it’s rather surprising and puzzling that Xiaomi seems to be shooting itself in the foot with the Redmi Note 14 Pro+, or at least its global version.

Make no mistake, the 200MP f/1.65 main camera is quite formidable, especially when there’s enough light around. Whatever it lacks at night or in dim environments, post-processing and a bit of AI are enough to compensate, leading to rather good shots with plenty of sharpness and details. That, however, is where the good news stops, and things take a sharp nosedive.

An 8MP ultra-wide camera in this day and age is more than disappointing. It’s almost unforgivable. The photos it takes are borderline decent, at least until you try taking shots in darker situations. Instead of a telephoto camera that its Chinese sibling has, the global Redmi Note 14 Pro+ only has a 2MP macro shooter that doesn’t even properly do what it’s supposed to.

Perhaps adding insult to injury is how this trio of sensors is the exact same group that Xiaomi has been using since the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ in late 2022. Sure, you can still squeeze out some more performance with software and AI tricks, but the flaws start to show quite easily. Even the 20MP front-facing camera seems to be stuck in the past, unable to record in the 4K resolution it should technically be capable of.

Sustainability

When compared to its predecessors, the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ design is a well-deserved upgrade, both in looks as well as durability. Not only does it look more stylish, it also boasts an upgrade to Gorilla Victus 2 for the screen and Gorilla Glass 7i for the back. Throw in the IP68 rating, and you’ve got a formula for a phone that should, at least in theory, last you years.

The same can’t be said for software support, though, with Xiaomi’s old bad behavior rearing its ugly head again. The phone is promised three years of Android version upgrades, which is the bare minimum, but with a rather big caveat. The Xiaomi HyperOS custom experience it ships with is based on Android 14, which launched in 2023. In reality, the first upgrade owners will get will be last year’s Android 15, so it’s practically good for only two major software updates until 2027.

Value

The mid-tier smartphone market is a land thriving in innumerable choices, some of which can be surprisingly delightful, while others are downright disappointing. There’s a rich variety of designs and features, but that also makes choosing even more difficult. The Redmi Note 14 Pro+ makes that decision even harder because it stands too close to its own past.

For around $450, you are getting the latest mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and a fast-charging battery paired with specs from two years ago. The design might seem fresh for the Redmi Note line, but it is a style that is growing less popular among the upper echelons of the smartphone industry. The cameras, while serviceable, don’t pack quite the same punch as its contemporaries, making the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ a hard sell unless you’re upgrading from an even older or lower Redmi model.

Verdict

The Redmi Note continues to be Xiaomi’s mid-range king, and the current-gen model definitely shows it. It’s a well-balanced smartphone with plenty of features to satisfy most users, with a price tag that won’t make them sweat too much. And it looks good to boot, finally worthy of the “flagship” moniker.

In the grander scheme of things, however, this king might be found a bit lacking. The use of older memory technologies and the reuse of older camera sensors won’t sit well with many people, at least those who like to dig deep into specs and comparisons. Truth be told, the average buyer might not care so much and only see a sleek smartphone with decent chops, and in that regard, the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G definitely doesn’t disappoint.

The post Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G Review: Finding Balance in the Old and the New first appeared on Yanko Design.

Most people put out New Year’s resolutions at the start of the year to make sure they put their best foot forward from the get-go. For OnePlus, that means starting the year with a “BANG!” by unleashing its newest flagship to the whole world. Already in its 12th incarnation (skipping the nefarious “4” and skipping the “T” models), the brand has gone through just as many redesigns and direction changes, all while still trying to stay true to the revolutionary spirit that quickly catapulted it into fame.

The OnePlus 13 is poised to be the culmination of that colorful history, at least up to this point, leveraging all the lessons that it learned in over 10 years while also boldly venturing into new territory. Can its latest flagship live up to its pedigree or has the brand lost its way? We take the OnePlus 13 for a spin to find out if the former upstart’s spirit lives on.

Designer: OnePlus

Aesthetics

OnePlus has always been quite revolutionary when it comes to the materials it uses for its smartphones, from wood to sandstone to faux leather. For the OnePlus 13, it opted to revisit materials associated with luxury products, in this case, leather. But in typical OnePlus fashion, it wasn’t content to just slap on that luxurious but unsustainable material and it created its own eco-friendly variant.

With the world’s first microfiber vegan leather applied to a smartphone, the OnePlus 13 immediately exudes a sophisticated appearance that doesn’t just look good but also feels great. It’s soft and warm to touch, adding a new tactile dimension to the smartphone experience. It also puts an extra level of durability into play, protecting the phone from high-temperature, salt spray, and even chemical exposure.

It’s undoubtedly a nice touch (pun intended), but it’s sadly not standard across the different colorways. Black Eclipse instead uses a unique process that gives its glass back a texture reminiscent of rosewood grain, a material near and dear to OnePlus’s heart. Compared to these two, unfortunately, the white Arctic Dawn looks and feels almost too mundane.

The OnePlus 13 also tries to combine the best of modern designs. On the one hand, you have the predominant flat aesthetic clearly seen on the phone’s edges. On the other hand, OnePlus also applied a quad-curved glass for the front, making the surface blend gracefully into the mid-frame. The back has a similar subtle curve around the edges, not enough to make it feel like you’re holding a phone from the 2010s.

If there’s one detail about the design that might not sit well with everyone, it would be the cameras. Large circles are in fashion today, but many now try to put that raised disc in the middle rather than off to the side like the OnePlus 13. While aesthetic tastes may vary, the design does have some practical implications on the weight distribution of the product. Suffice it to say, expect it to wobble when you tap on it on a flat surface like a table.

Ergonomics

As well get to later, the OnePlus 13 is packed with quite a number of powerful hardware, including a very large battery pack. It needs at least that much to have a competitive edge, but thankfully that doesn’t come at the expense of the phone’s usability and ergonomics. In fact, despite all that, the OnePlus 13 is only 210g light and 8.5mm thin, a remarkable feat indeed.

What these figures mean in practice is that the phone remains comfortable to hold, giving confidence whenever you hold the phone in your hand. The texture of the microfiber vegan leather material also improves your grip, ensuring that the OnePlus 13 won’t easily escape your grasp.

Performance

As an early 2025 flagship, it’s no surprise that the OnePlus 13 would have the best of the best hardware available in the smartphone market at this point. That means, of course, the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 16GB of memory, and 512GB of storage. You’ll hardly see the OnePlus 13 choke on anything you throw at it, from gaming to AI-powered photo touch-ups, and a massive cooling vapor chamber ensures it’s running at peak performance longer.

On the software side, the OnePlus 13 runs OxygenOS 15, which is based on Android 15. Unlike most “skins,” the latest iteration of the brand’s custom Android experience is pleasantly clean and light. It’s no accident, of course, as the company intentionally fine-tuned the user experience to feel fast and smooth to give it the feeling of responsiveness. Of course, there’s no shortage of AI features, both OnePlus’ as well as Google’s Gemini, and it can handle those functions quite gracefully.

Just as interesting as its back is the OnePlus 13’s front, where a flat 6.8-inch QHD+ (3168×1440) screen lies. It’s bright, colorful, and fast, making your content pop whether they’re static photos or fast-moving games. The experience, however, goes beyond just looking good, with a new Glove Mode that lets you operate the display even while wearing woolen or sheepskin gloves up to 0.5cm in thickness. And considering how much time we spend on our phone screens, the 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming promises to put less strain on the eyes.

Part of the reason for the OnePlus 13’s large size is the 6,000mAh battery inside. That’s immediately larger than what most flagship smartphones carry, and yet the OnePlus 13 manages to still remain thin and lightweight. More than just the oversized capacity and battery life, the battery also impresses with its fast 80W wired and 50W wireless charging speeds, making sure you’re up and running again in a little over 30 minutes. That is, of course, if you’re using compatible proprietary OnePlus chargers.

With mobile photography as one of the top reasons people buy smartphones today, it’s no surprise that OnePlus invested quite a lot on its new flagship’s camera system. It’s becoming quite trendy to finally have nearly co-equal camera sensors, in this case three 50MP cameras that deliver clear, detailed, and beautiful images, regardless of the angle or focal length.

A large 1/1.4-inch Sony LYT-808 leads the pack with an equally large f/1.6 aperture, making short work of most shots under any lighting condition. The 50MP Samsung ISOCELL JN5 sensor on the ultra-wide camera delivers a breath-taking panorama with every shot, and it doesn’t sacrifice any quality to get there. Having the same megapixel count removes that jarring jump when switching cameras, making it feel like you’re using a single camera with different lenses instead.

Admittedly, the most interesting of the three is the telephoto camera, and not just because of its 1/1.95-inch Sony LYT-600 sensor. It uses an innovative Triprism lens design that, despite having more prisms than your typical periscope-style telephoto lens, actually takes up less space inside. That’s how the OnePlus 13 manages to be thinner than the competition and still deliver a 3x optical zoom with a 73mm equivalent focal length.

Suffice it to say, the OnePlus 13 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to camera output, both in still photos and in videos. Even on an overcast day, you still get plenty of details and sharpness, even when zoomed in. And with its partnership with Hasselblad, portraits come out perfectly as if they were taken by professional Hasselblad cameras.

Sustainability

Smartphones remain one of the most numerous mass-produced electronics in the world today, and there’s no slowing down that market. This means millions of units are still produced annually, and just as many are replaced or simply discarded frequently. Any small change that reduces a phone’s negative impact on the environment adds up in the long run, like going with a more sustainable material such as the OnePlus 13’s microfiber vegan leather.

It definitely helps if a smartphone doesn’t have to be replaced any time soon, whether because of damages or obsolescence. The OnePlus 13 boasts IP68 as well as IP69 ratings, so some water accidents need not cause a panic. OnePlus also promises four years of software updates and an additional six years of security updates, ensuring that your phone is running smoothly for years to come.

Value

With quite a number of players in this already crowded market, OnePlus is definitely smart in getting a head start this year with the global launch of the OnePlus 13. It is making a competitive and well-rounded product available early before some of its rivals even announce their next big thing. And the OnePlus 13 is definitely worth checking out with all the features it has to offer.

More than just the powerful high-end hardware, impressive triple 50MP cameras, and long-lasting battery, what the OnePlus 13 offers is a holistic experience that checks all the right boxes. An elegant and sustainable design, a clean and fast user interface, and the right balance of AI-driven features, all contribute into making the OnePlus 13 a good choice for an early 2025 purchase.

Verdict

OnePlus began as a challenge to the status quo of the smartphone market and delivered products that made the same premium features more accessible to people. It was never just about the price, however, and the focus was always on providing a design and user experience that could keep up with users’ needs and preferences, facets of their lives that change and grow over time.

The OnePlus 13 aims to be that kind of companion on people’s life journeys. Not just a technological tool but a part and extension of themselves. Its future-proof features, stylish aesthetics, and environment-conscious design allow it to keep up with users from all walks of life, whether they’re content creators, mobile gamers, knowledge workers, or anyone in between. In that sense, the OnePlus 13 definitely carries the torch of the brand’s “Never Settle” philosophy, delivering an uncompromising experience that empowers you to stay ahead.

The post OnePlus 13 Review: Redefining What It Means to Never Settle first appeared on Yanko Design.

AquaSense 2 Ultra represents a new benchmark in automated pool maintenance. It fuses HybridSense AI Pool Mapping with a sophisticated combination of AI cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and infrared detection that adapt to even the most intricate pool designs. This multi-sensor strategy collects real-time information about depth changes and obstacle placement, allowing AquaSense 2 Ultra to plan a cleaning path that conserves energy without missing a spot. Pool owners benefit from an intelligent process that reduces the need for repeated passes or manual readjustments.

Designer: Beatbot

Part of what makes the AquaSense 2 Ultra so effective is the natural synergy between hardware and software. It perceives small objects floating on the surface and more substantial debris lurking along the floor with a level of clarity typically absent from traditional robotic cleaners. This set-it-and-forget-it concept appeals to busy homeowners who want a seamless cleaning solution that does not require constant intervention. By mapping the pool with fine detail, it also recognizes multi-level platforms and tricky corners that generic systems might skip.

The presence of an industry-first 5-in-1 cleaning system offers more than simple vacuuming. AquaSense 2 Ultra tackles the water surface, waterline, walls, floors, and the water itself in a single, cohesive sweep. This design cuts out the hassle of coordinating multiple tools for different areas. Dual-side brushes and roller brushes work in tandem to dislodge dirt, while the ClearWater Clarification System dispatches an eco-friendly clarifier that binds oils and tiny particles into clumps for easier filtration.

Discover the AquaSense 2 Ultra—click to learn more at Beatbot!

Its user-centric features enhance pool care to a new standard. By bringing advanced technology into a straightforward package, the AquaSense 2 Ultra changes the conversation around robotic cleaners. With each cycle, it blends practical benefits—like time savings and thorough coverage—with the ease of integrated app controls and scheduling. This emphasis on efficiency, convenience, and adaptability sets the AquaSense brand apart from the average cleaner.

Design/Aesthetics

The AquaSense 2 Ultra shows off a sleek profile that complements both modern and traditional poolscapes. Its exterior casing has smooth edges that contour gracefully, giving it a streamlined presence whether it is on the pool deck or submerged in water. The positioning of the AI cameras and infrared sensors is subtly executed so the device does not appear cluttered or overly mechanical. This balance between function and form means it can handle demanding tasks without looking bulky or out of place.

Design choices also reflect a focus on durability. Materials that resist corrosion and withstand exposure to pool chemicals form the foundation of the cleaner. The dual-side brushes and roller brushes are strategically aligned to create symmetry, turning a potentially messy arrangement of moving parts into a visually coherent pattern. Each design element highlights the AquaSense 2 Ultra’s dual role as both a high-performance appliance and a visually refined addition to the pool environment.

Simplicity rules the overall aesthetic, avoiding excessive curves or decorations while focusing on optimal performance. The device’s moderate height and low center of gravity lend stability as it moves around walls and floors. Even the handles for lifting or removing the unit are integrated with a sense of fluidity, so they don’t interrupt the smooth silhouette when the cleaner is operating.

The AquaSense approach to style respects the fact that modern homeowners prize both functionality and tasteful presentation. By incorporating a cohesive design language, the AquaSense 2 Ultra fits neatly into a setting that values subtlety. Its thoughtful execution gives the product a tech-forward vibe without overwhelming the pool’s natural appeal.

Ergonomics

AquaSense 2 Ultra addresses everyday user challenges through ergonomic details that can be immediately appreciated. Retrieving a water-filled cleaner from the bottom of the pool is often an unpleasant chore, so the AquaSense solution includes a SmartDrain surface parking system. Once the cleaning run finishes or battery power gets low, the cleaner floats to the pool’s edge through controlled buoyancy, making it easier to grab without straining your back.

The companion app also adds a layer of ergonomic convenience by placing real-time navigation in the palm of your hand. If you spot pockets of leaves or debris, you can steer the AquaSense 2 Ultra precisely where it needs to go. This feature aids those who like to be hands-on in their cleaning approach while still allowing the device to operate on its own when desired. The user-friendly interface, compatible with both iOS and Android, offers a clear view of cleaning progress, scheduling, and stored cleaning records.

Handling the AquaSense 2 Ultra outside the pool is made smoother by a compact, streamlined body that stays balanced when lifted. Unlike conventional cleaners with bulky shapes that twist awkwardly, this device keeps a low profile. The arrangement of the brushes and wheels is designed to prevent tangling, so there’s minimal fuss when the machine is placed on the deck or stored away between uses.

Even routine tasks like removing the filter or checking the brushes have been simplified. AquaSense 2 Ultra’s housing opens with little effort and requires no specialized tools. This attention to detail ensures pool owners spend less time wrestling with the product and more time enjoying the benefits of a consistently clean swimming space.

Performance

AquaSense 2 Ultra leverages HybridSense AI Pool Mapping to deliver precision cleaning. Its intelligent sensors, including AI cameras, ultrasonic mapping, and infrared detection, collaborate to map the pool environment comprehensively. This ensures that obstacles like ladders and steps are identified while debris, such as leaves and twigs, is effectively targeted. By analyzing its surroundings in real-time, the AquaSense 2 Ultra avoids wasted energy on empty passes and focuses solely on areas needing attention.

The 5-in-1 cleaning system transforms pool maintenance by addressing waterline scrubbing, wall cleaning, and water clarification in a single cycle. Equipped with dual-side brushes and high-traction wheels, the AquaSense 2 Ultra easily tackles curved corners and vertical surfaces. The powerful 5,500 GPH suction system efficiently eliminates sediment and algae that collect in typically hard-to-reach spots like pool steps and corners, ensuring comprehensive cleaning.

The AquaSense 2 Ultra’s indispensable debris-detection capabilities classify waste types, such as clusters of leaves near drains or smaller particles dispersed across the floor. The cleaner then optimizes its route to reduce unnecessary effort. This significantly improves cleaning efficiency and minimizes wear and tear on the unit. Pools with intricate designs or features like infinity edges particularly benefit from its meticulous N-shaped cleaning pattern.

AquaSense Pro with 2 Ultra and iSkim

Adaptability plays a pivotal role in the device’s performance. After a storm, the AquaSense 2 Ultra recalibrates its path to handle floating debris and windblown dirt, while its regular over-the-air updates ensure it stays equipped to tackle evolving cleaning challenges. For seasonal pool maintenance, it excels at collecting finer particles, such as pollen or dust, which other cleaners often miss.

The app integration extends its functionality even further. Owners can direct the cleaner to focus on specific trouble spots—for instance, the aftermath of a pool party—while still benefiting from its autonomous daily cleaning mode. This feature empowers users who prefer a hands-on approach without compromising the unit’s ability to manage the pool independently when desired.

The AquaSense 2 Ultra impresses with its consistent and reliable performance, delivering dependable results every day. Be it routine cleaning or tackling one-off messes, its high-efficiency motor and real-time path adjustments guarantee reliable results. Pools that experience frequent use, whether for recreation or exercise, remain inviting and hygienic with minimal effort from the owner.

Ultimately, the AquaSense 2 Ultra’s intelligent design merges practicality with advanced technology. It transforms pool cleaning from a labor-intensive task into a seamless experience, ensuring pristine swimming conditions while saving time and energy.

Sustainability

AquaSense 2 Ultra champions an eco-friendly philosophy by weaving sustainable practices directly into its design. The ClearWater Clarification System dispenses an earth-conscious clarifier that gathers oils and microscopic particles into clumps for easier filtration. This approach lowers chemical usage, so owners can maintain cleaner water without constantly over-treating it with synthetic agents. Over time, this method can reduce dependence on harsh cleansers, creating a gentler environment for swimmers and the surrounding ecosystem.

The efficiency of HybridSense AI Pool Mapping also contributes to sustainability. Since the AquaSense 2 Ultra modifies its route to avoid unnecessary retracing, it completes each pass with minimal energy expenditure. Fewer hours spent circulating in the pool mean smaller power bills and less strain on the battery over the product’s lifetime. This optimized approach delivers cost savings for the owner and a reduced carbon footprint for the planet.

Longevity and adaptability also tie into this ecological perspective. Regular over-the-air updates keep the AquaSense 2 Ultra at the forefront of technology, eliminating the need to replace hardware just to access new features. As the software evolves, it refines how the robot cleans, boosting overall effectiveness without generating more waste. By proactively extending its functionality, the Beatbot brand underscores its commitment to a sustainable future.

Even the packaging and build materials echo this commitment. Durable plastics and rust-resistant alloys ensure that the cleaner isn’t disposable; it is a long-term investment that withstands chlorine, sun exposure, and frequent use. By combining eco-conscious engineering with a robust maintenance model, the AquaSense 2 Ultra proves that performance and sustainability can exist in tandem.

Value and Conclusion

The AquaSense 2 Ultra goes beyond the basic task of vacuuming debris and emerges as a genuinely advanced solution for total pool maintenance. Through its HybridSense AI Pool Mapping and multi-sensor integration, it goes beyond single-method navigation, delivering a flexible cleaning path that precisely fits each pool’s layout. The device tackles a broad spectrum of duties, from surface skimming to wall scrubbing and water clarification, sparing owners the burden of juggling multiple tools or carrying out manual brushing.

A dedicated app enhances ease of use by providing real-time navigation, scheduling, and progress tracking. You can guide the AquaSense 2 Ultra through stubborn patches of floating debris or let it function autonomously during daily maintenance cycles. Smart features like one-click parking and automatic surface floatation also reduce the physical strain associated with retrieving the unit when its job is done.

By incorporating an eco-friendly clarifier and adaptive route planning, the AquaSense 2 Ultra emphasizes thoughtful design that conserves resources. Its hardware is built to last, and its software receives updates that expand debris recognition, ensuring the device remains relevant and effective over time. This future-proof angle strengthens the investment, as owners benefit from constant improvements without replacing the core machine.

Ultimately, AquaSense 2 Ultra merges performance, convenience, and sustainability into a single package that redefines what a pool cleaner can be. The combination of hybrid mapping, robust scrubbing power, and streamlined app controls delivers a product that meets the expectations of discerning pool owners. It is a worthy choice for anyone wanting to devote less time to manual maintenance and more time to actually enjoying their pool.

Discover the AquaSense 2 Ultra—click to learn more at Beatbot!

The post Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra Review: You Won’t Believe How This Cleaner Works Like Magic first appeared on Yanko Design.

I’ve always been drawn to the look of a classic stainless steel band because there’s an unmistakable feeling of substance around a metal bracelet that wraps around your wrist with a sense of presence. That’s why Apple’s Link Bracelet has been a staple in my lineup since the early days of the wearable’s launch, and with the recent introduction of three fresh colorways for the Series 10 era, I felt it was time to revisit this product in more detail. Many enthusiasts remember how this band was introduced at the same time as the original Apple Watch, and the initial reaction was a mix of admiration for its smooth metal segments and concern over its added weight. Years have passed and the Link Bracelet is still here, and that steadfast endurance makes it a top choice for anyone wanting to enhance their watch’s overall feel. I have tried several bands since, including the rubber Solo Loop for more active days, yet I always return to the stainless steel option as a dependable favorite. The only other band that comes close to matching my fondness is that rubber strap. With this new Link design, I get that almost seamless loop around my wrist, complete with a butterfly clasp that is so flush you can forget it is there.

PROS:

• Seamless integration with Apple Watch for a cohesive look.


• Durable brushed stainless steel resists scuffs.


• Timeless elegance in Natural, Slate, and Gold finishes.


• Smooth links offer comfortable all-day wear.


• Long-lasting and compatible with new Apple Watch generations.

CONS:

• Premium pricing may deter some buyers.


• Weight could feel heavy for those used to lighter bands.


• No micro-adjustment option for fine-tuning fit.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Apple’s Link Bracelet combines timeless elegance with unmatched durability, seamlessly enhancing the Apple Watch experience.

Designer: Apple

Design

Apple’s Link Bracelet is a masterpiece of design and aesthetic refinement, and its design remains one of the most compelling reasons to choose this band for your Apple Watch. At the heart of this design lies the butterfly clasp. Unlike clasps on many traditional metal bands, which often protrude and disrupt the bracelet’s continuity, Apple’s butterfly clasp is fully integrated into the chain of links. This seamless approach allows the clasp to disappear when closed, preserving the bracelet’s fluid appearance and creating a nearly infinite loop around your wrist.

Material choices play a crucial role in defining the character of the Link Bracelet. The Natural color, which I’m reviewing, offers a timeless brushed stainless steel finish that captures light in a subtle yet captivating way. It’s versatile enough to adapt to various lighting conditions—indoors, it presents as a soft matte silver with a hint of warmth, while in natural sunlight, it gleams with a slightly brighter, more polished sheen. This adaptability makes it an excellent match for the Natural Titanium Apple Watch case, maintaining a cohesive yet understated aesthetic.

For those seeking a darker, more dramatic look, the new Slate color delivers. Its titanium-like tone balances contemporary appeal with sophistication. Indoors, Slate offers a muted gunmetal hue that feels bold without being overpowering. Outdoors reveal a slightly lighter, smoky gray quality that enhances its depth and richness. It is an excellent option for pairing with darker watch cases or for making a subtle statement of contemporary style.

The Gold finish, meanwhile, is unapologetically luxurious. This color exudes a bright, attention-grabbing shimmer that appeals to those who favor bold style choices. Whether paired with a matching gold watch or used to create contrast, this finish thrives in environments with ample light, where its reflective qualities can shine.

Each link in the bracelet is meticulously crafted from stainless steel, with a brushed finish on the top surfaces and subtly polished edges. This combination enhances the bracelet’s texture and creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. Indoors, the brushed finish looks refined and understated, while outdoors, the polished edges catch the sunlight, adding a touch of sparkle that elevates the overall appearance.

The material choices and finishes contribute directly to the Link Bracelet’s aesthetic appeal but also its tactile experience. Each link is smooth and rounded on the underside, ensuring that the bracelet rests naturally on the wrist. The Link Bracelet’s design transitions effortlessly between dimly lit offices and sunny outdoor settings, offering both versatility and durability as an accessory for the Apple Watch.

Ergonomics

Despite the watch now being in its tenth iteration, this steel Link Bracelet has a timeless feel that has not drastically changed from the early concept. It’s always been intended as a premium option to pair with Apple’s wearable, and that concept remains intact for someone who desires a well-crafted band that complements the watch’s stainless steel or titanium case. There is a distinctive sense that it was formed in the same industrial design space that gave rise to Apple’s minimal lines and smooth edges. Each link is carefully engineered, with precise tolerances that you can see in the way they lock together. You’d think that would reduce rattling, yet I’ve noticed a slight rattle if I shake the watch vigorously. One quirk I’ve observed is an occasional squeak when operating the clasp, often when the mechanism is dirty or dusty. In daily wear, though, the clasp provides a satisfying click that feels reliable.

I’ve spent extensive time using the Link Bracelet across different Apple Watch generations, as well as exploring metal bands from other luxury brands. It can be tricky for a modern smartwatch brand to pull off a metal bracelet that stands alongside heritage watch brands, but Apple’s design language does a good job of combining sleek modern lines with a feeling of luxury. There is a comfort factor that some folks find contradictory since many assume metal means stiffness or hardness. The interesting truth is that it rests naturally on your wrist once you resize the links correctly. I prefer the 12-o’clock side to be one link longer to accommodate the wristbone, ensuring a more comfortable fit. Each segment has a rounded profile on the underside. Because of that, I have never dealt with sharp edges. The ergonomics are fine, though I do acknowledge the heft could feel heavier on small wrists or if you are used to lighter silicone bands. The big tradeoff is that the increased weight offers a sense of security and polish. It never feels flimsy, so I find it suitable as an all-day band that you could take to dinner or a casual office environment. If I were wearing the watch for a high-intensity workout, I would switch to my rubber Solo Loop, which is still an everyday favorite for sweatier activities, though this stainless steel band can handle moderate activity too.

Performance

The Link Bracelet performs exceptionally well in everyday use, combining style with function. Its weight, while noticeable, contributes to a reassuring sense of durability and luxury. I’ve found the bracelet comfortable during long hours at a desk and equally practical for casual outings. The smooth, rounded links glide effortlessly on the wrist without pinching or pulling hairs—a common issue with cheaper metal bands.

In terms of functionality, the bracelet stays securely in place once sized correctly. I’ve worn it through various activities and never felt it loosen or shift awkwardly. The butterfly clasp operates with satisfying precision, making it easy to put on or remove the band without fuss. The lack of a micro-adjustment option hasn’t been an issue for me, as the links themselves are small enough to provide a near-perfect fit. Once adjusted, the bracelet retains its size, even after multiple detachments and reattachments to the watch.

Durability is another strong point. The brushed stainless steel finish resists everyday scuffs better than mirrored surfaces, and any minor marks can usually be buffed out with a microfiber cloth. I’ve even noticed how well the bracelet adapts to different environments. Indoors, it maintains a subdued elegance, while outdoors, the polished edges catch the light beautifully, adding an extra dimension to its appearance.

For those concerned about the bracelet’s weight, it’s worth noting that while heavier than silicone or nylon bands, the Link Bracelet’s distribution ensures it doesn’t feel cumbersome. Instead, the weight adds a premium feel that’s hard to replicate with lighter materials. Overall, it’s a band that performs as impressively as it looks, making it a worthy addition to the Apple Watch lineup.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a growing factor in our tech choices, and the Link Bracelet demonstrates Apple’s efforts to reduce environmental impact through material selection. Stainless steel, a key component, is fully recyclable, aligning with Apple’s broader goals of using recycled metals across their products. The addition of titanium in the Slate colorway further highlights these efforts.

A metal band like the Link Bracelet, built to last for years, offers a more eco-conscious choice compared to disposable, lower-quality bands. Apple designed this accessory to endure, ensuring it remains compatible with new watch iterations without requiring replacement. This longevity makes it a sustainable alternative to frequently replacing bands with every upgrade cycle.

One could use their Link Bracelet for years, maintaining functionality despite minor patina on the underside—a natural mark of use. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth can restore much of its original shine, reflecting its durability and thoughtful design.

Value

The Link Bracelet’s seamless integration with the Apple Watch is its standout feature. The stainless steel links align perfectly with the watch lugs, creating a cohesive and polished look. Unlike third-party bands that may leave gaps or appear mismatched, this bracelet feels intentionally designed as part of the watch.

In everyday use, the bracelet offers consistent comfort and dependability. The butterfly clasp is discreet and secure, maintaining the minimalist aesthetic while ensuring ease of use. Its brushed finish adds subtle elegance indoors, while polished edges catch the light outdoors, enhancing its refined appearance. Minor scuffs on the brushed steel can be addressed with a quick polish, keeping the bracelet looking sharp.

Apple’s premium pricing reflects the bracelet’s quality and compatibility. It continues to fit new Apple Watch generations, making it a reliable, long-term investment. Available in Natural, Slate, and Gold finishes, the design remains timeless and versatile. For those seeking a band that combines elegance with functionality, the Link Bracelet delivers practicality and style in equal measure.

The post Apple Link Bracelet Review: Timeless Elegance Meets Everyday Durability for Watch 10 Titanium first appeared on Yanko Design.

It’s that time of the year when people find themselves scrambling to check shopping and wish lists, trying to figure out the best gifts to give others as well as themselves for the upcoming year. It’s a time when people are looking not just for the best products but also for the best value they can get for their money’s worth. That includes the latest gadgets like smartphones that will accompany their new owners to the next year and beyond.

There’s no shortage of designs to choose from in this market, whether in terms of aesthetics, features, or price. Many try to appeal to brand loyalty while others resort to gimmicks and extravagant designs to stand out from the crowd. While this may work for some, not everyone is in the market for a novel smartphone that will end up quickly losing its charm after a few months. In contrast to these, the Vivo X200 looks like a familiar face that is ready to support an old friend, so we take it for a spin to see if it can really deliver that sense of confidence despite its unassuming appearance.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

If you’ve seen the Vivo X100 that was launched late last year, you might feel a sense of deja vu. The Vivo X200 looks almost exactly like its predecessor, though there are definitely some improvements here and there, most of which you won’t be able to immediately notice. That’s not to say that it looks dated, because there are definitely significant changes to the design that prove it’s still a step forward, small as it may be.

The edges, for example, are now flat, matching the current design trends in the smartphone market. The 6.67-inch screen is somewhat flat as well, though the bezels do curve down to the midframe. This is mirrored on the fiberglass back plate whose curve is now less pronounced. In other words, the Vivo X200 exudes a modern and stylish design that keeps in touch with minimalist trends.

The circular camera bump is still large, but that, too, is becoming more common. Large as it may be, it offers not only visual symmetry but also balance that prevents the phone from wobbling on tables. This symmetry is also reflected in the arrangement of the cameras that point in the cardinal directions rather than a square. One of those black circles isn’t a camera, though, but it’s a smart design decision rather than leaving the arrangement a bit odd, literally and figuratively. The metal Sunburst Ring surrounding the camera is still there, along with a knurled surface that gives it the semblance of a luxury watch bezel or a camera lens focus ring.

All in all, the Vivo X200 offers a simple yet stylish design that embodies the strengths of minimalism. There are very few unnecessary details, aside from the ZEISS branding in the center of the cameras and the triple LED flash in the corner. Rather than pushing boundaries and presenting a new but unfamiliar face, it prefers to offer something more recognizable and comforting, bucking the common business sense of changing designs every year.

Ergonomics

In a way, the Vivo X200 seems to combine the best of both design worlds. It has flat edges that some argue give a better grip, but the screen and backplate still curve a bit so they don’t exactly bite into your skin. That said, the matte glass surface of the phone’s back might be tricky for some who find the material slippery, despite the advertised benefits of the artificially crafted texture.

With a weight of around 197g (6.9oz) and an average thickness of 8mm (0.31 in), the phone isn’t exactly the lightest nor the thinnest among this year’s flagships. It isn’t the worst, either, so you’re not exactly taking a loss. It has a nice balance in your hand and feels solid enough to give you confidence when you hold it. It definitely has a premium feel to it that matches its sleek and elegant appearance.

Performance

Unlike some other smartphone brands, Vivo opted to place its bets on MediaTek for its X-series flagships. This particular batch utilizes the new Dimensity 9400 5G, promising a notable jump in performance in gaming and AI. It’s paired with 16GB of RAM, which you can extend up to another 16GB from storage, and 512GB of that fixed storage capacity. In other words, the Vivo X200 is quite the beast, handling any task you throw at it with finesse. Benchmarks put it head-to-head with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, though take it with a grain of salt as that is last year’s Qualcomm flagship.

Thanks to the use of solid-state battery technology, Vivo is able to cram no less than a 5,800mAh battery inside such a compact body. With average use, it can easily last up to two days before needing a charge, and when it comes time to plug it in, just half an hour is enough to get it up to 80% with its 90W charging speed. As great as battery performance sounds, Vivo has chosen to leave out wireless charging yet again, falling behind its peers and rivals in this modern convenience.

The phone’s 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen is very bright and colorful, easily the highlight of the Vivo X200’s face. It has a fast 120Hz refresh rate that makes games responsive and the UI fluid, but it can only switch between 60Hz and 120Hz. It does boast a 2,160Hz PWD dimming that is touted to be as eye-friendly as you can get on screens. There’s really not much else to say about the phone’s display other than how great it looks even under bright outdoor light.

Contrary to what the design suggests, the Vivo X200 only has three cameras, all of them boasting 50MP sensors. This addresses one of the longest-standing problems with smartphone cameras where different lenses produce widely different results. They’re not all the same sensors, of course, but this at least narrows the gap considerably, ensuring that switching between focal lengths is no longer jarring nor disadvantageous. All three also use ZEISS T* coated lenses that reduce lens flares and reflections.

Main, 23mm

Ultra-wide, 15mm

Main, 23mm

Leading the trio is a 50MP Sony IMX921 sensor with an f/1.57 lens and a focal length of 23mm. This wide camera boasts the usual PDAF and OIS features, producing vibrant, detailed, and clear photos under any lighting condition. This is joined by an ultra-wide camera with a 50MP sensor and an f/2.0 aperture lens with a 119-degree field of view. With its highly detailed output and minimal distortion, it’s a welcome break from smartphone cameras that often leave this particular aspect lagging behind.

Main, 2x

Telephoto, 3x

Telephoto, 10x

The third member of the group is a 50MP Sony IMX882 with a f/2.57 aperture lens and a 70mm equivalent focal length. It’s capable of 3x optical zoom, which is quite good in terms of the level of detail, and 10x hybrid zoom which is actually still decent despite the noticeable loss of quality. The camera does seem to have some difficulty with indoor lighting at 3x magnification, leading to blurry and pixelated patches of color.

Telephoto, 3x, Indoor lighting

The really outstanding camera, however, is on the opposite side. In addition to a 32MP sensor, this front-facing ultra-wide camera can record in 4K at 30 or 60fps, which really upgrades the video quality of a camera that’s often overlooked. Not only will it make you look good in video calls, it will also give vloggers and influencers an edge over the competition, presuming their chosen social media platform supports high-quality video in the first place.

Sustainability

As the Vivo X200’s design looks familiar, so is the formula for its parts. In other words, the company hasn’t yet taken any big step forward in using more sustainable materials other than the usual metal or glass you’d find in any other smartphone. Instead, it focuses on making it last a little bit longer, whether because of its durability or its length of support.

More than just the usual IP68 rating, the Vivo X200 also boasts an IP69 certification, which means the phone can be washed with hot water without that much fear, though you’re not advised to do that anyway. The phone also runs FuntouchOS 15 that’s based on Android 15, and it’s promised to receive up to four major OS upgrades, which means you won’t have to worry about being outdated for another four years. With how fast people change their smartphones every two years or how quickly some are obsoleted, these features guarantee a long life for Vivo’s flagship.

Value

There are two ways to stand out in the rat race known as the smartphone market. Either you do something so radical that you turn people’s heads, or you do something so well that people can’t help but take notice. The Vivo X200 is clearly in the latter camp, preferring to prioritize substance over style. Not that it’s lacking style, either, with an elegant minimalist aesthetic that inspires familiarity and confidence, instead of opting for novelty that will quickly wear off.

The Vivo X200 delivers a solid all-rounder device that checks the right boxes without going overboard. The one box it does miss out on is its availability. Although it has recently launched in global markets, its reach is still few and far between. The price tag that goes around $700 to $800 makes it a more difficult choice to make when there are more affordable options available that offer nearly the same capabilities.

Verdict

Smartphones have evolved to become more than just a communication or productivity tool but also a reflection of ourselves. And just as not all of us need fancy designer items or extravagant accessories, not everyone needs a smartphone that screams for attention. Some prefer a minimalist aesthetic that extols the virtues of good design that encompasses color, material, finish, and, most importantly, user experience.

The Vivo X200 is one such design, bearing a simple appearance that belies the power it holds within. It has a well-balanced and solid set of features, empowered by AI, that is ready to handle any task you throw at it. It is by no means unattractive, but it is designed to appeal to people whose tastes go beyond flashy gimmicks and short-lived features. It is, at the end of the day, a reliable companion on life’s adventures.

The post Vivo X200 Review: Reliability without Fuss or Fanfare first appeared on Yanko Design.

Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 4 aims to redefine the way we experience wireless audio, blending cutting-edge technology with thoughtful design. As the latest addition to the company’s flagship lineup, these earbuds promise high-resolution sound, exceptional call quality, and intuitive features designed for real-world use. From tackling noisy environments during calls to delivering an immersive music experience with tailored EQ settings, the FreeBuds Pro 4 seems ready to take on the challenges of everyday life. Let’s dive into how they perform.

PROS:

• Bone-Conduction Technology for Outstanding Call Quality


• Dual-Driver True Sound System for Immersive Audio


• Effective Noise Control Modes


• Memory Foam Tips for Comfort and Noise Isolation


• Dual-Device Connection for Multi-Tasking

CONS:

• Battery Life with All Features Enabled


• Limited Customization Options for EQ

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

FreeBuds Pro 4 redefines clarity and comfort—perfect for immersive listening and crystal-clear calls in any environment.

Designer: Huawei

Design and Aesthetics

Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 4 comes into a world already saturated by wireless earbuds that promise comfort, clarity, and a stylish form. The design language of these Huawei earbuds should not be ignored, especially considering how many brands forget that we wear these devices as part of our personal style. This isn’t a gaudy attempt at jewelry. Instead, its understated style enhances its appeal, allowing it to complement a wide range of personal aesthetics while remaining functional. The minimalist design ensures that the earbuds feel professional for work calls yet casual enough for everyday use, making them versatile for any scenario.

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4

The FreeBuds Pro 4 comes across more like a finely tuned instrument. The materials and finishing radiate a subtle sense of care rather than flamboyance. They feel confident in their presence. While certain earlier earbud models from various brands have been plagued by slippery finishes or cheap-feeling plastic, Huawei took time to produce something that can actually withstand everyday handling without showing scratches the moment you toss them into a bag. I respect that.

The subtle branding and finishing details don’t scream for attention, but if you pay attention, you notice the layers of careful craftsmanship. These are refined enough that you can hold them and sense the design decisions that Huawei made. They are small objects that serve multiple roles in a modern lifestyle. Whether it’s transitioning seamlessly from a high-stakes business call to an evening of relaxing music, these earbuds adapt effortlessly. They feel purposeful, combining functional elegance with durability—offering a sense of reliability that makes you proud to use them daily, not as just another disposable gadget.

Ergonomics

The fit inside my ears is stable and comfortable, thoughtfully crafted to accommodate a wide range of ear shapes. I wore them for hours on end during my flight from Dubai to Dallas, and they remained incredibly comfortable—a testament to Huawei’s ergonomic design. The memory foam ear tips adapt naturally to the ear canal, creating a secure yet unobtrusive seal that minimizes sound leakage while enhancing comfort. This seal plays a vital role in reducing ambient noise, allowing me to immerse myself in music or focus on work without interruption.

One of the FreeBuds Pro 4’s most impressive aspects is its lightweight construction. Even after prolonged use, I didn’t feel any strain or pressure on my ears, a crucial feature for long-haul travelers or those wearing them throughout the day. The thoughtful balance of form and function ensures these earbuds feel natural as an extension of your daily routine.

The design also fosters a sense of acoustic balance. Whether I was navigating through a bustling airport terminal or seated in a noisy cabin, the FreeBuds Pro 4 delivered a consistent sense of calm. The combination of comfort, practicality, and noise isolation creates an experience that feels uniquely tailored to real-world challenges, making these earbuds more than just another gadget in your bag.

Performance

The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 offers a variety of noise control modes that adapt to your environment and personal preferences, enhancing the overall listening experience. The Noise Canceling mode, set to “Ultra,” excels in eliminating background distractions such as bustling terminals or airplane cabins. During my flight from Dubai to Dallas, switching to this mode drowned out the low rumble of the engines and even softened the sharp cries of a nearby baby, making it far easier to focus on music or relax.

The Awareness mode is equally practical for situations where you need to stay alert. While waiting for boarding announcements at the airport, I switched to this mode and appreciated how it amplified surrounding sounds just enough to keep me connected to my environment without removing the clarity of my audio.

For moments when no active noise cancellation is needed, the Off mode provides a more neutral experience, preserving battery life while still offering the same high-quality audio playback. These modes illustrate Huawei’s thoughtful approach to real-world usability. Moving seamlessly between a quiet office, a busy public space, or even transitioning from one to the other, the earbuds adapt without skipping a beat.

What I love most about these transitions is the audible notification that accompanies each mode switch. It’s a simple yet thoughtful addition that ensures I know exactly which setting I’ve selected without needing to glance at the app. This level of intuitive design is rare and makes a noticeable difference in seamless usability.

Through its high-end specifications, the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 offers a refined listening experience. At the heart of its design is the Dual-driver True Sound system combined with retuned Digital Cross-Over technology. This configuration allows precise handling of individual frequency ranges, offering clarity and depth for every track. Supporting this is the powerful 11mm Quad-Magnet Dynamic Driver Unit, ensuring rich and distortion-free sound across different genres.

To enhance the audio quality further, Huawei’s proprietary Bluetooth L2HC 4.0 codec enables high-resolution audio transmission at up to 24-bit/48kHz with an impressive 2.3 Mbps speed. These features ensure that music playback remains immersive and true to its original quality, from soft instrumentals to dynamic, bass-heavy tracks.

Using the EQ presets provided in the app, I tested various music genres that align with my preferences.

• Bass Boost: I turned on “Bass Boost” for tracks like Dua Lipa’s Don’t Start Now and Calvin Harris’s Slide. The low-end frequencies gained a deep, rich punch without overpowering the vocals or the treble. The bass remains tight and controlled, adding energy to upbeat tracks.
• Treble Boost: For acoustic recordings, I switched to “Treble Boost” while listening to John Mayer’s Neon and Fleetwood Mac’s Landslide. The clarity of the plucked strings came through vividly, giving these tracks a lifelike quality that felt intimate and warm.
• Voices: For podcasts and vocal-heavy tracks like Adele’s Hello or Sam Smith’s Stay With Me, the “Voices” setting isolated the mids perfectly, making every word and note resonate with clarity. Even during noisy environments, the emphasis on vocal frequencies ensured nothing got lost.
• Hi-Fi Live: Playing Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody in “Hi-Fi Live” mode captured the dynamic shifts in the song beautifully. The balance between the intricate layering of vocals and instruments felt almost like being present at a live performance.
• Classical: While listening to Yo-Yo Ma’s performance of Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1, the “Classical” preset highlighted the warmth and depth of the cello, enhancing every bow stroke’s detail and emotion.

Sitting next to a screaming infant on an airplane prior to takeoff, I placed a call to a colleague. The sharp, piercing cries of the baby, alternating between high-pitched wails and desperate sobs, created an environment that felt chaotic and overwhelming. The FreeBuds Pro 4, equipped with advanced bone-conduction VPU microphone technology and an AI noise reduction algorithm, dulled the high-pitched wails to a manageable hum. This ensured my conversation remained uninterrupted. On the other end of the line, my colleague heard my voice with alarming clarity, reporting that the background noise was virtually eliminated. Even in a breezy outdoor space, the wind did not translate into overwhelming mic distortion. Thanks to this technology, the other side of the line received a well-isolated version of my voice. Meetings, calls, and interviews can proceed naturally, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Each preset feels tailored to amplify the strengths of specific genres without resorting to over-processing. The Dual-driver True Sound system works with the Digital Cross-Over technology to provide a clean, distortion-free experience. When playing back lossless audio files at 24-bit/48kHz, as in Fleet Foxes’ Helplessness Blues, the earbuds reveal an extra layer of tonal richness that’s absent in most competing earbuds.

The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 pushes a real sense of precision in their sound. I know these are not pro-audio-grade studio monitors, but they do not need to be. Instead, they strike a healthy balance between detail and warmth.

Value and Conclusion

In my ongoing evaluation of audio gear, I place a heavy emphasis on how something works in daily life. Specs, brand names, and press releases can only tell a fraction of the story. The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 shows the company understands what it means to integrate seamlessly into a user’s world. For example, when moving from a video call on my laptop to playing music on my phone, the Dual Device Connection feature ensures a smooth transition without the need for manual pairing. This functionality, combined with wear detection that pauses and resumes audio automatically, makes the earbuds feel intuitive and effortless to use.

The clarity of call quality, the stable performance in streaming high-fidelity audio, and the robust battery life stand out more strongly than any marketing buzz. The brand’s focus on noise cancellation that actually works in varied environments shows care and attention to real-world challenges. The comfort of memory foam ear tips that reduce sound leakage stands out as well. This new Huawei model demonstrates that the company took real-world obstacles into account, from wind noise to inconsistent network conditions.

The underlying message from Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 4 is that refinement and practicality don’t have to sit on opposite ends of the spectrum. High-resolution audio retains its crispness without compromising stable connectivity. The design combines comfort with individuality, avoiding the generic aesthetic that fades into the background. Noise cancellation handles unpredictable environments effectively, not limiting itself to quiet offices. Smart features are thoughtfully implemented to enhance workflows without coming across as gimmicks.

All these elements come together in these earbuds and reflect an approach that respects the user’s real-world context. After thorough use, I am impressed with how consistently well these earbuds handle everyday challenges. The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 is far more than a spec sheet or a flashy launch event. They’re a step toward making wireless earbuds fit into our lives as effortlessly as possible, blending balanced sound reproduction, stable calls, and comfortable ergonomics in a way that rewards those who actually pay attention to what matters.

The post Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 Review: Transforming Everyday Listening with Superior Audio and Seamless Communication first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro represents a remarkable advancement in smartphone design, seamlessly blending affordability with a sense of premium innovation. Its striking design immediately grabs attention, while the exceptional camera system and vibrant display create an experience that feels tailored for those who demand more from their devices. This phone reimagines what a mid-tier device can deliver, blending innovative features with thoughtful design. Yet, some user feedback suggests that certain design decisions may feel more polarizing than cohesive, indicating that preferences can differ widely.

PROS:

• Impressive design with premium materials and unique textures.


• Reliable performance with Huawei’s chipset and 12GB RAM.


• Vibrant LTPO OLED display with adaptive refresh rate and HDR support.


• Advanced camera system with variable aperture and multiple lens options.


• Fast 100W charging and practical reverse wired charging.

CONS:

• Design elements could be polarizing, particularly the front camera cutout and rear camera bump.


• Absence of Google services, which may deter some users.


• Lack of tri-band Wi-Fi support for advanced connectivity needs.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro strikes an impressive balance between premium design and cutting-edge features, offering a mid-range device that feels anything but ordinary.

Designer: Huawei

Design and Aesthetics

Huawei has struck a balance with the Nova 13 Pro, pairing sleek design with practical functionality to enhance everyday use. Measuring 163.4 x 74.9 x 7.8 mm and weighing 209 grams, the device features a glass front and either a glass or eco-leather back, depending on the variant. It’s available in four elegant colors: Black, White, Purple, and Loden Green, the series’ signature color.

On the back, Huawei’s signature interwoven pattern—crafted with micro-nano 3D lithography and micro-crystal feather yarn technology—adds visual depth and practicality by being stain-resistant, scratch-resistant, and skin-friendly. The elongated camera bump houses four lens openings arranged in a square configuration, accompanied by two LED flash sensors. Meanwhile, the pill-shaped cutout on the front accommodates two selfie cameras, a design choice that enhances portrait capabilities while maintaining a sleek appearance. Still, some users have criticized the front camera layout as less appealing than a simpler punch-hole approach, while others find the camera bump design childish rather than elegant, highlighting how taste can vary significantly depending on the individual.

Ergonomics

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro features a thoughtful ergonomic design, combining form and function to create a device that’s as comfortable to hold as it is visually appealing. The gently curved edges and perfectly balanced weight distribution make it feel natural in hand, allowing for comfortable one-handed use despite its large 6.76-inch display.

The quad-curved micro OLED screen melts into the frame, creating an almost borderless viewing experience that’s both immersive and ergonomic. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsiveness, while the 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming reduces eye strain during extended use.

Huawei’s interwoven pattern on the back panel, crafted using micro-nano 3D lithography and micro-crystal feather yarn technology, enhances grip while offering a unique texture and aesthetic. The elongated camera module, with its square lens arrangement and slim profile, ensures the phone remains stable on flat surfaces while maintaining sleek handling. The under-display fingerprint sensor is perfectly positioned for intuitive access, allowing for seamless unlocking without disrupting the phone’s clean lines. Combined with the IP65 rating for dust and splash resistance, the Nova 13 Pro is designed to withstand daily use while preserving its ergonomic integrity. Even so, user reactions to the overall design language remain mixed, with some praising the artistry while others urge Huawei and the Nova 13 Pro to adopt a more universally appealing aesthetic.

Performance

At the heart of the Nova 13 Pro lies Huawei’s Kirin 8000 chipset, supported by 12GB of RAM and storage options up to 1TB. This combination ensures smooth multitasking, swift app launches, and reliable performance for most modern tasks. HarmonyOS 4.2 offers a clean and intuitive user experience bolstered by Huawei’s ecosystem integrations.

During my review of the Huawei Nova 13 Pro, the device consistently delivered impressive performance across a variety of demanding scenarios. The Kirin 8000 chipset, coupled with 12GB of RAM, proved more than capable of handling intensive multitasking and resource-heavy applications with ease. From editing high-resolution photos to playing graphic-intensive games and handling demanding applications with ease, the Nova 13 Pro exhibited no noticeable lag or slowdowns. HarmonyOS 4.2 further enhanced the experience, providing intuitive navigation, swift app switching, and fluid animations. These features ensured that whether I was managing multiple productivity tools or enjoying entertainment apps, the Nova 13 Pro maintained its responsiveness and reliability, offering a seamless user experience that aligns with its premium design. The performance aligns well with the phone’s premium design, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable user experience.

Display

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro’s display is a centerpiece of its design, offering vibrant visuals and exceptional adaptability for various uses. The 6.76-inch LTPO OLED panel features a resolution of 2776 x 1224 pixels (449 ppi density) and employs quad-curved micro OLED technology, creating an immersive, borderless viewing experience. Supporting 1 billion colors, HDR, and an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, the display ensures lifelike color reproduction and seamless transitions. Moreover, the integration of 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming reduces eye strain, making it ideal for extended use.

For gamers, the 120Hz refresh rate brings fluidity to fast-paced action, particularly in titles like racing games and first-person shooters. The reduced input lag, measuring as low as 8.33 milliseconds, ensures precise responsiveness during gameplay, while the elimination of screen tearing enhances immersion. These refinements offer players an edge and elevate the overall gaming experience.

Streaming enthusiasts will appreciate how the Nova 13 Pro handles high-speed visuals, like watching Formula 1 races. As the cars fly by, the display captures every detail with sharpness and precision, ensuring fast-moving scenes remain vivid and lifelike. The HDR support enhances contrast and vibrancy, making the colors of the cars and tracks pop. Combined with 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming, the screen minimizes eye strain, allowing users to enjoy extended viewing sessions comfortably.

Balancing performance with comfort, the Nova 13 Pro’s display offers a polished visual experience that resonates with a diverse audience, including gamers, binge-watchers, and everyday users. However, some remain unconvinced that the phone’s unique front camera placement is a worthy trade-off for these display benefits, reflecting how design choices can influence user satisfaction.

Cameras

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro’s camera system rivals many flagship devices, delivering an exceptional photographic experience that redefines expectations in the mid-tier segment. The rear camera system features a 50MP wide-angle sensor as its centerpiece, integrating RYYB technology to enhance light intake by 40% compared to conventional sensors. The variable aperture, ranging from f/1.4 to f/4.0, is a key feature that enhances the Nova 13 Pro’s photographic capabilities across various lighting conditions. At f/1.4, the lens excels in low-light environments by capturing sharp, low-noise images with detailed precision while creating a pleasing background blur for artistic compositions. Narrowing the aperture to f/4.0 provides greater depth of field, making it particularly effective for landscapes and group shots where clarity across the frame is essential.

This advanced system adapts seamlessly to challenging lighting conditions but also offers photographers precise control through both manual and automatic adjustments. In Pro mode, users can fine-tune the aperture to craft images with greater creative intent, while the automatic optimization ensures consistent performance without requiring technical expertise. By seamlessly integrating these capabilities, the variable aperture delivers a versatile and dynamic photography experience that meets the demands of both casual and advanced users.

Accompanying the main sensor is a 12MP telephoto lens equipped with 3x optical zoom. This camera does a great job at capturing distant subjects with clarity, aided by OIS to reduce blur and PDAF for precise focusing. While details at extreme zoom ranges can soften, the telephoto lens delivers reliable performance for portraits and medium-range photography.

The 8MP ultrawide lens brings creativity into the mix with its expansive 112-degree field of view. Ideal for dynamic landscapes and group shots, it also includes autofocus capability—a feature rarely seen in mid-tier competitors—making it suitable for macro photography as well. However, some edge softening may occur at the widest angles, a minor trade-off for its versatility.

On the front, the dual selfie cameras enhance the Nova 13 Pro to a league of its own. The 60MP ultrawide sensor captures exceptional detail, ensuring selfies highlight both the subject and surroundings with clarity. Complementing this is an 8MP telephoto lens offering 2x optical zoom, a rarity for front-facing cameras, which adds depth and flexibility to self-portraits and video calls.

The camera performance is further amplified by AI-driven features such as gyro-EIS and Huawei’s advanced computational photography algorithms. These technologies stabilize video recording, optimize color accuracy, and refine detail across various shooting conditions. The Nova 13 Pro’s camera system balances professional-level control with approachable, user-friendly functionality, making it one of the device’s most impressive features. Still, some users question the necessity of such a high-resolution front camera or the inclusion of a telephoto option for selfies, viewing these as more of a novelty than a practical enhancement.

Battery and Charging

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro is equipped with a robust 5000mAh battery designed to keep pace with modern lifestyles. The inclusion of 100W SuperCharge Turbo technology ensures rapid recharging, taking the device from 3% to 50% in a mere nine minutes—perfect for those busy moments when you need to get back on the go quickly. This feature reduces downtime significantly, making it ideal for both professionals and casual users who rely heavily on their devices.

Moreover, the phone supports reverse wired charging, an often-overlooked but highly practical feature. For example, it can be used to top up your wireless earbuds or assist a friend in need of extra power; this functionality adds an element of convenience and flexibility to everyday use. Combined, these charging features make the Nova 13 Pro reliable and adaptable to various power needs. Despite these positives, app availability and the absence of Google services due to ongoing U.S. sanctions may influence the decision-making process for some buyers. However, the robust HarmonyOS ecosystem and Huawei’s app alternatives offer a viable solution for users who prioritize the device’s strengths.

Value and Conclusion

The Huawei Nova 13 series delivers a compelling package that combines sophisticated design, advanced technology, and fair pricing for what it offers. The Nova 13 is priced at $596, offering 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, while the Nova 13 Pro comes in at $758 with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. This clear distinction in price reflects the additional features and storage capabilities of the Pro variant, catering to different user needs.

The Nova 13 Pro’s refined aesthetics, dependable performance, and versatile camera system ensure it meets the expectations of a broad range of users. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who values premium design, the Pro model strikes a thoughtful balance between style and functionality.

Meanwhile, the Nova 13 standard model offers a more accessible price point while retaining key features such as the sleek textured design and a capable camera system, making it an excellent option for those looking for value without compromise.

Both models deliver vibrant displays, advanced cameras, and reliable battery life, making the Nova 13 series a strong contender for users seeking quality at mid-range pricing. Huawei has managed to create devices that not only cater to various needs but also make premium features more accessible. Still, given the mixed reception of certain design elements and the ongoing ecosystem, there is room for refinement. Focusing on universally appealing aesthetics and expanding app compatibility could strengthen the Nova 13 Pro’s position in the mid-range market. The Nova 13 Pro remains an intriguing choice for many, yet it shows that user preferences can vary widely and that what appeals to one set of buyers may not resonate as strongly with another.

The post Huawei Nova 13 Pro Review: Stunning Design and Powerful Features at a Mid-Range Price first appeared on Yanko Design.