So here we go again, meet the new Nothing Phone 2a Plus Community Edition, the latest in this evolving lineup. Now, this limited edition release has a glow-in-the-dark design, fan-made customizations, and, well, only 1,000 units, which makes it more collector’s item than a daily driver.
The Nothing Phone 2a Journey
So it’s March 2024, I’m watching Carl and Akis talk about the Nothing Phone 2a, a budget-friendly model that was in Black, White, and Milk finishes. It was sleek, simple, and maintained that transparent design Nothing is known for, but with a more wallet friendly price point and I was all over the place about this particular model. With a MediaTek Dimensity 7000 chip and straightforward specs, this was a solid, no frills choice that aimed to bring a bit of Nothing’s minimalist aesthetic to a larger audience at a cheaper price, and it was and still is neat. As soon as the phone got launched, talks of the Community Edition began, but we never expected what we got in-between.
Come April, the company made waves by releasing a Blue Edition, exclusive to India. And for the record, this wasn’t just a paint job, it was a statement. The blue back panel was a first for them, and it added a fresh aesthetic to the lineup. For a brief moment, the Blue Edition was the coolest thing on the block in the Nothing Phone community.
But Nothing wasn’t finished, we’re now in May 2024, which brought the Special Edition, which took things a step further by incorporating the primary colors, red, yellow, and blue into its transparent design. This model let a bit of playfulness shine through the back, giving the phone an artsy look that felt right in line with Nothing’s quirky, design-forward ethos, and as usual, the fans loved it, to be fair, who wouldn’t?
Phone 2a Plus and Plus Community Edition
This is where things get crazy, now Nothing cranked things up a notch in July 2024 with the Phone 2a Plus. With this one we saw a few more meaningful upgrades to the model itself, a faster MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro 5G processor and a new 50 MP front camera. The Phone 2a Plus offered a bit more power and appeal for those wanting a blend of “midrange” performance with the signature Nothing style (Midrange is in quotes considering that the base model is the budget one). It was the first hint that Nothing could push this budget line a bit further without losing what made it stand out in the first place.
Then now in October 2024, Nothing announced the Phone 2a Plus Community Edition, a glow-in-the-dark model created in collaboration with the brand’s own community. Now this is the only variant we were anticipating, since we knew it was being made from the beginning. So what’s new you may ask. The back glows green in the dark, creating a unique “Phosphorescence” effect that doesn’t just look good but also helps you locate your phone in the depths of a dimly lit room. The packaging even glows, I just love their attention to detail.
2a Plus Community Edition vs 2a
This limited edition doesn’t just bring a new look, it also carries the hardware upgrades from the Phone 2a Plus. Here’s how the specs of the Community Edition compare to the original Phone 2a:
Specification
Standard Phone (2a)
Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition
Processor
MediaTek Dimensity 7000
MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro 5G
Front Camera
16 MP
50 MP
Glow-in-the-Dark Design
No, duh
Yes
Screen Size
6.5 inches, 1080p OLED
6.5 inches, 1080p OLED
RAM
6 GB
8 GB
Storage Options
128 GB
128/256 GB
Color Options
Black, White, Milk
Glow-in-the-Dark Green
Special Packaging
No
Yes, glow-in-the-dark packaging
Price
$299
$399
Availability
Regular production
Limited to 1,000 units
All The Models in One Table
Here’s a detailed comparison table of all Nothing Phone (2a) variants, including the CMF Phone 1 for additional context since I thought it’d be relevant to compare it to the 2a’s since it’s also a budget device. This should help highlight how each version differs in design, specs, and special features.
Feature
Nothing Phone 2a Standard
Nothing Phone 2a Blue Edition
Nothing Phone 2a Special Edition
Nothing Phone 2a Plus
Nothing Phone 2a Plus Community Edition
CMF Phone 1
Release Date
March 2024
April 2024
May 2024
July 2024
October 2024
September 2024
Processor
MediaTek Dimensity 7000
MediaTek Dimensity 7000
MediaTek Dimensity 7000
MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro 5G
Snapdragon 782G
Front Camera
16 MP
16 MP
16 MP
50 MP
50 MP
32 MP
Rear Cameras
50 MP + 16 MP
50 MP + 16 MP
50 MP + 16 MP
50 MP + 16 MP
50 MP + 16 MP
50 MP
Glow-in-the-Dark Feature
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
Screen Size & Type
6.5-inch OLED, 1080p
6.5-inch OLED, 1080p
6.5-inch OLED, 1080p
6.5-inch OLED, 1080p
6.5-inch OLED, 1080p
6.43-inch AMOLED, 120Hz
RAM
6 GB
6 GB
6 GB
8 GB
8 GB
6 GB
Storage Options
128 GB
128 GB
128 GB
128/256 GB
128/256 GB
128 GB
Color Options
Black, White, Milk
Blue
Red, Yellow, Blue accents
Black, White, Milk
Glow-in-the-Dark Green
Interchangable back
Special Packaging
No
No
No
No
Yes, glow-in-the-dark packaging
No
Operating System
Nothing OS (based on Android)
Nothing OS (based on Android)
Nothing OS (based on Android)
Nothing OS (based on Android)
Nothing OS (based on Android)
CMF OS (based on Android)
Battery Capacity
4500 mAh
4500 mAh
4500 mAh
4500 mAh
4500 mAh
4500 mAh
Price
$299
$299
$299
$349
$399
$149
Availability
Regular
India-exclusive
Limited Edition
Regular
Limited to 1,000 units
Regular
Is It Worth the Hype?
For $399, the Community Edition is pricier than the standard Phone 2a, but that extra cost goes towards a unique design that’s unlikely to be repeated. With only 1,000 units out there, this phone is mainly made for collecters I guess. However, the glow-in-the-dark feature is gimmicky but in a fun, nostalgic way that adds to its personality, especially if you’re someone who values design as much as performance.
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Itel’s S series naming conventions are always a bit of a mystery. We jumped from the S17 to the S18, then last year it was the S23, and now we have the S24! It’s almost like a certain German car manufacturer which uses the same naming style in their ‘Luxury’ car series. But hey, who cares about names when the price is right? The S24 packs a surprising punch for a phone that costs between $105 and $150 USD.
Let’s dive into the specs! The S24 boasts a large 6.6-inch IPS LCD display, perfect for watching videos or endlessly scrolling through social media. It comes with a generous 8GB of RAM, which is a welcome surprise at this price point, allowing you to run multiple apps and switch between them smoothly. Storage options include either 128GB or 256GB, giving you plenty of space for your photos, videos, and ever-growing app collection. It’s no surprise that itel cut some corners to hit that sweet price point. The display resolution isn’t the highest, and the build is more plastic than glass. But the overall construction feels surprisingly sturdy for a budget phone. One cool feature is the color-changing back, reminiscent of the itel S23. And of course, there’s the ‘Dynamic Bar’ – a feature that definitely wasn’t inspired by a certain fruit-branded tech giant. Let’s just say the designers were clearly fans of the S24’s sleek design!
Under the hood, the S24 represents a major upgrade with the switch to a MediaTek Helio G91 processor. This is a significant improvement over the Unisoc chips used in previous models, which were known for their, ahem, ‘enthusiastic’ performance. I reviewed both the S23 and the P40+, and let’s just say gaming wasn’t exactly their strong suit. While the Helio G91 won’t turn the S24 into a gaming powerhouse, it’s a clear step up that makes everyday tasks smoother and allows for some light gaming And get this – the S24’s default wallpaper has a seriously familiar vibe. It’s got that swirly look and those nature-y colors that kinda remind you of staring at your desktop screen. Makes you wonder if someone at itel is a fan of a certain super popular operating system, you know?.
The 108MP camera on the S24 seems a bit too good to be true at first glance. Sure, it won’t compete with the Pixel 7a or the Nothing Phone 2a(my favorite midrange devices), but remember the price difference! Compared to its predecessors, the S24 should deliver noticeably better image quality, which is a win for budget-minded users.
Itel has a well-deserved reputation for excellent battery life, and the S24 doesn’t disappoint. The 5000mAh battery should easily get you through a full day of use, and potentially more if you’re not constantly glued to the screen. And if you’re a battery life champion, the itel P40+ might be your soulmate, boasting a whopping 7000mAh battery.
As with many Chinese smartphones, the itel S24 comes with its own custom software experience. There will be some pre-installed apps, some of which could be considered bloatware. Itel also has a fondness for including various ‘features’ that may not be quite as useful as they seem. However, itel’s custom Android skin, while not top-of-the-line, has a clean aesthetic. You might even run into their AI assistant, Aivana, who’s always eager to help (but might not quite measure up to Google Assistant, I’m just saying).
Overall Impressions (Without a Test Drive)
While I haven’t personally reviewed the S24 (this whole review is based on insights from other reviewers, so maybe I might have said too much for someone who doesn’t have first-hand information), it’s clear that you’re getting a lot of smartphone for a remarkably low price. The S24 strikes a great balance between features and affordability. If you’re not a power user who demands the latest and greatest technology, this could be the perfect daily driver. The big display, decent performance, surprisingly capable camera, and long-lasting battery should cover most people’s needs without breaking the bank.
When to Consider Alternatives
However, there are some scenarios where itel’s other offerings or even competing brands might be a better fit. If 5G connectivity or wireless charging is a must-have for you, the itel P55 lineup is worth considering. Additionally, if you prioritize camera performance above all else, the Google Pixel 7a or even the Nothing Phone 2a(yes, these two again) might offer a more satisfying experience, although be prepared to pay a bit more for those upgrades.
The Bottom Line
The itel S24 is a compelling option for anyone seeking a capable smartphone on a tight budget. It won’t blow your mind with high-level specs, but it delivers remarkable value. If you simply need a phone that handles everyday tasks smoothly, has a decent camera, and keeps going all day long, the S24 is well worth a closer look.
Here’s a table summarizing the key specs of the Itel S24:
The year 2023 has been a remarkable one for the smartphone industry, with many new innovations, features, and designs that have pushed the boundaries of mobile technology. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly device, a powerful performer, a camera beast, a gaming monster, or something else, there is a smartphone for you in 2023. In this article, I will share my personal opinion on the best smartphones of 2023 in different categories, based on the available information and reviews from various sources. Note that this article is not based on any hands-on experience, but only on research.
Best Affordable Phone: Samsung Galaxy A14 5G
If you are looking for a smartphone that offers 5G connectivity, a decent performance, a good battery life, and a nice design, without breaking the bank, then the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is a great choice. This phone was launched in January 2023, and it is priced at $199.99. It features a 6.5-inch HD+ LCD display, a MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, a 48MP main camera, a 5MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP macro camera, a 2MP depth camera, a 13MP selfie camera, a 5000mAh battery, and a side-mounted fingerprint scanner. It runs on Android 12 with One UI 4.0 on top. The Galaxy A14 5G is a solid mid-range phone that can handle most tasks and apps smoothly, and it supports 15W fast charging. It also has a sleek design with a gradient back and a punch-hole display. The Galaxy A14 5G competes with other affordable 5G phones such as the Motorola Moto G Power 5G, the OnePlus Nord N200 5G, and the TCL 20 5G.
Best Performance Phone: Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
When it comes to performance, no other phone can match the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max, which was launched in September 2023. This phone is powered by the Apple A16 Bionic chip, which is the most advanced processor in the market, with a 5nm+ process, a six-core CPU, a five-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, and 8GB of RAM. The iPhone 15 Pro Max also has a stunning 6.7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 2778×1284 resolution, and HDR10 support. It has 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage options, and it runs on iOS 17. The iPhone 15 Pro Max also has an impressive camera system, with a 12MP wide-angle camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a LiDAR scanner. It can record 4K video at 60fps, and it supports Dolby Vision, ProRAW, and Cinematic mode. The front camera is also a 12MP sensor with Face ID and Animoji support. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 4500mAh battery that supports 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, IP68 water and dust resistance, MagSafe accessories, and 5G connectivity. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the ultimate performance phone that can handle any task or game with ease, and it offers a smooth and fluid user experience. It is priced at $1,199, and it faces competition from other flagship phones such as the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, the Google Pixel 8 Pro, and the OnePlus 12 Pro.
Phone with the Best Camera: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
If you are a photography enthusiast, or you just want to capture the best moments of your life, then the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the phone for you. This phone was launched in February 2023, and it has a remarkable camera system that consists of a 108MP main camera, a 12MP periscope telephoto camera with 10x optical zoom, a 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a laser autofocus sensor. It can record 8K video at 30fps, and it supports HDR10+, Super Steady mode, and Director’s View. The front camera is a 40MP sensor that can record 4K video at 60fps, and it supports Night mode and Live Focus. The Galaxy S23 Ultra also has a gorgeous 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 1440×3200 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection. It is powered by the Exynos 2200 chipset in some regions, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset in others, both of which are based on a 4nm process and have an integrated AMD GPU. It has 12GB or 16GB of RAM, and 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. It runs on Android 12 with One UI 4.0 on top. The Galaxy S23 Ultra has a 5000mAh battery that supports 45W wired charging, 25W wireless charging, and 15W reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, IP68 water and dust resistance, an in-display fingerprint scanner, an S Pen support, and 5G connectivity. The Galaxy S23 Ultra is the best camera phone of 2023, as it offers a versatile and powerful camera system that can capture stunning photos and videos in any situation. It is priced at $1,199.99, and it rivals other camera phones such as the Huawei P60 Pro, the Xiaomi 13 Pro, and the Oppo Find X5 Pro.
Best Gaming Phone: Asus ROG Phone 7
If you are a hardcore gamer, or you just want to enjoy the best mobile gaming experience, then the Asus ROG Phone 7 is the phone for you. This phone was launched in July 2023, and it is a gaming beast that has a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 1440×3200 resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, a 300Hz touch sampling rate, and HDR10+ support. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is the most powerful processor for Android phones, with a 4nm process, an octa-core CPU, an Adreno 730 GPU, and a Snapdragon Elite Gaming suite. It has 12GB, 16GB, or 18GB of RAM, and 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage. It runs on Android 12 with ROG UI on top. The ROG Phone 7 also has a massive 6000mAh battery that supports 65W wired charging, 30W wireless charging, and 10W reverse wireless charging. It also has dual front-facing speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a quad-microphone system, an RGB logo, an AeroActive Cooler 7 accessory, and a side-mounted port for other accessories. The ROG Phone 7 also has a decent camera system, with a 64MP main camera, a 13MP ultra-wide camera, a 5MP macro camera, and an 8K video recording support. The front camera is a 24MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 60fps. The ROG Phone 7 is the best gaming phone of 2023, as it offers a superb performance, a smooth and responsive display, a long-lasting battery, a loud and clear sound, and a range of gaming features and accessories. It is priced at $999, and it competes with other gaming phones such as the Lenovo Legion Phone 3, the Nubia Red Magic 7, and the Black Shark 5.
Phone with the Best Battery: Motorola Moto G Power 5G
If you are looking for a phone that can last for days on a single charge, then the Motorola Moto G Power 5G is the phone for you. I know you thought I was going to talk about an itel device, but no we’re with Motorola. This phone was launched in April 2023, and it has a huge 6000mAh battery that supports 20W wired charging. It also has a 6.8-inch LCD display with a 1080×2400 resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and a punch-hole design. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset, which is a 5G-enabled processor with a 7nm process, an octa-core CPU, and a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. It has 4GB or 6GB of RAM, and 64GB or 128GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. It runs on Android 12 with My UX on top. The Moto G Power 5G also has a decent camera system, with a 48MP main camera, a 5MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP macro camera, a 2MP depth camera, and a 1080p video recording support. The front camera is a 16MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 30fps. The Moto G Power 5G is the best battery phone of 2023, as it offers a phenomenal battery life, a large and smooth display, a 5G connectivity, and a clean and simple software. It is priced at $249.99, and it faces competition from yes, the itel S23+, P40 and P40+, it’s hard not to mention these two.
Best Foldable Phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
If you want a phone that can transform into a tablet, then the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the best foldable phone for you. This phone was launched in August 2023, and it has a stunning 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 2208×1768 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an under-display camera. It also has a 6.2-inch cover display with a 2268×832 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is the most powerful processor for Android phones, with a 4nm process, an octa-core CPU, an Adreno 730 GPU, and a Snapdragon Elite Gaming suite. It has 12GB or 16GB of RAM, and 256GB or 512GB of storage. It runs on Android 12 with One UI 4.0 on top. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 also has an impressive camera system, with a 12MP main camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and an 8K video recording support. The cover camera is a 10MP sensor, and the under-display camera is a 4MP sensor. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 has a 4400mAh battery that supports 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, IPX8 water resistance, an in-display fingerprint scanner, an S Pen support, and 5G connectivity. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the best foldable phone of 2023, as it offers a versatile and powerful device that can switch between a phone and a tablet mode, with a seamless and smooth user experience. It is priced at $1,799.99, and it competes with other tablet-style foldable phones such as the Huawei Mate X3, the Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold, and the Google Pixel Fold.
Best Customizable Phone: OnePlus Open
If you want a phone that you can customize to your liking, then the OnePlus Open is the best customizable phone for you. This phone was launched in October 2023, and it has a unique design that allows you to swap the back cover, the camera module, and the battery with different options. You can choose from various materials, colors, and styles for the back cover, such as leather, wood, metal, glass, or fabric. You can also choose from different camera modules, such as a 50MP main camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, a 16MP ultra-wide camera, a 5MP macro camera, a 2MP depth camera, or a 48MP monochrome camera. You can also choose from different battery capacities, such as 4000mAh, 4500mAh, or 5000mAh, and different charging speeds, such as 30W, 50W, or 65W. The OnePlus Open also has a 6.7-inch Fluid AMOLED display with a 1440×3216 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is the most powerful processor for Android phones, with a 4nm process, an octa-core CPU, an Adreno 730 GPU, and a Snapdragon Elite Gaming suite. It has 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and 128GB or 256GB of storage. It runs on Android 12 with OxygenOS 13 on top. The OnePlus Open also has a 32MP selfie camera, an in-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and 5G connectivity. The OnePlus Open is the best customizable phone of 2023, as it offers a modular and flexible device that you can personalize to your preference, with a premium and elegant design. It is priced at $1,699, and it faces competition from other customizable phones such as the Nothing Phone (2), Motorola Moto Z5, the LG Wing 2, and the Fairphone 4.
Best Selling Phone: Apple iPhone 15
If you want a phone that is popular and widely used, then the Apple iPhone 15 is the best selling phone for you. This phone was launched in September 2023, and it has sold over 100 million units worldwide as of November 2023, according to Counterpoint Research⁵. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 1170×2532 resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, and HDR10 support. It is powered by the Apple A17 Bionic chip, which is the most advanced processor in the market, with a 5nm+ process, a six-core CPU, a four-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, and 4GB of RAM. It has 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage options, and it runs on iOS 17. The iPhone 15 also has an Impressive camera system, with a 12MP wide-angle camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a LiDAR scanner. It can record 4K video at 60fps, and it supports Dolby Vision, ProRAW, and Cinematic mode. The front camera is also a 12MP sensor with Face ID and Animoji support. The iPhone 15 has a 3095mAh battery that supports 20W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, IP68 water and dust resistance, MagSafe accessories, and 5G connectivity. The iPhone 15 is the best selling phone of 2023, as it offers a reliable and smooth performance, a stunning and durable design, and a loyal and satisfied customer base. It is priced at $799, and it competes with other popular phones such as the Samsung Galaxy S23, the Google Pixel 8, and the OnePlus 12.
Phone with the Best Speakers: Sony Xperia 1 V
If you want a phone that can deliver loud and clear sound, then the Sony Xperia 1 V is the best speakers phone for you. This phone was launched in June 2023, and it has a dual front-facing speaker system that consists of a top speaker and a bottom speaker. The speakers support Dolby Atmos, which enhances the sound quality and creates a surround sound effect. The speakers also have a dedicated amplifier, which boosts the volume and reduces distortion. The Xperia 1 V also has a 3.5mm headphone jack, which supports high-resolution audio and LDAC. It also has a built-in DAC, which converts digital signals to analog signals for better sound quality. The Xperia 1 V also has a stunning 6.5-inch OLED display with a 4K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is the most powerful processor for Android phones, with a 4nm process, an octa-core CPU, an Adreno 730 GPU, and a Snapdragon Elite Gaming suite. It has 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and 128GB or 256GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. It runs on Android 12 with Xperia UI on top. The Xperia 1 V also has an impressive camera system, with a 12MP main camera, a 12MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a 3D ToF sensor. It can record 4K video at 120fps, and it supports Cinema Pro, Photo Pro, and Real-time Eye AF. The front camera is an 8MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 30fps. The Xperia 1 V has a 4500mAh battery that supports 30W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 5W reverse wireless charging. It also has IP68 water and dust resistance, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, and 5G connectivity. The Xperia 1 V is the best speakers phone of 2023, as it offers a superb sound quality, a high-resolution display, a powerful performance, and a professional camera system. It is priced at $1,399.99, and it competes with other phones with great speakers such as the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, the Google Pixel 7 Pro, and the Asus ROG Phone 7.
Best Dynamic Phone: Nothing Phone 2
If you want a phone that can adapt to your needs and preferences, then the Nothing Phone 2 is the best dynamic phone for you. This phone was launched in July 2023, and it has a unique design that features multiple LED lights on the back, which can be used for notifications, charging progress, camera fill light, and more. It also has a blinking red light on the back, which indicates video recording. The Phone 2 also has a 6.7-inch OLED display with a 1080×2412 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an under-display camera. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor and has a 6.7-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It has 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and 128GB or 256GB or 512GB of storage. It runs on Android 13 with Nothing OS 2.0.2a on top. The Phone 2 also has a dual-camera system on the back, with a 50MP main sensor and a 50MP ultrawide sensor. It can record 4K video at 60fps, and it supports live HDR, OIS, and EIS. The front camera is a 32MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 30fps. The Phone 2 has a 4700mAh battery that supports 45W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 5W reverse wireless charging. It also has stereo speakers, NFC, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and 5G connectivity. The Phone 2 is the best dynamic phone of 2023, as it offers a novel and customizable device that can change its appearance and functionality according to your mood and situation. It is priced at $599, and it faces competition from other dynamic phones such as the OnePlus Open, the LG Wing 2, and the Fairphone 4.
Best Rugged Phone: CAT S63
If you want a phone that can survive harsh conditions and environments, then the CAT S63 is the best rugged phone for you. This phone was launched in October 2023, and it has a 5.7-inch LCD display with a 1080×2160 resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, and Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection. It is powered by the MediaTek Helio P95 chipset, which is a reliable and efficient processor with a 12nm process, an octa-core CPU, and a PowerVR GM9446 GPU. It has 6GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. It runs on Android 12 with CAT UI on top. The CAT S63 also has a decent camera system, with a 16MP main camera, a 8MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP macro camera, a 2MP depth camera, and a FLIR thermal imaging camera. It can record 1080p video at 30fps, and it supports HDR and Panorama. The front camera is a 8MP sensor that can record 1080p video at 30fps. The CAT S63 has a 5000mAh battery that supports 18W wired charging, 10W wireless charging, and 5W reverse wireless charging. It also has dual speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, and 4G connectivity. The CAT S63 is the best rugged phone of 2023, as it offers a durable and tough device that can withstand drops, shocks, water, dust, extreme temperatures, and more. It also has a thermal imaging camera that can detect heat sources and measure temperatures. It is priced at $799, and it rivals other rugged phones such as the Blackview BV9900 Pro, the Ulefone Armor 13, and the Doogee S97 Pro.
Conclusion
These are some of the best smartphones of 2023, in my opinion, in different categories. Of course, there are many other great phones that I did not mention, and you may have your own preferences and opinions. However, I hope this article gave you some insight and information about the latest and greatest smartphones of 2023, and helped you decide which one suits you best. This article is part of a 2023 wrap up series, where I list the best tech gadgets made in the year. The series also includes laptops, tablets, electric cars, and audio devices. Stay tuned for more articles in this series, and feel free to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section below. Thank you for reading, and have a wonderful day!
Dream League Soccer is a game that has captivated millions of soccer fans around the world with its realistic and addictive gameplay. The game allows you to create your own dream team from over 4,000 FIFPRO™ licensed players, compete in various leagues and tournaments, and customize your stadium, kit, and logo. The game also features stunning 3D graphics, motion-captured animations, immersive commentary, and an exclusive soundtrack.
But the game is not resting on its laurels. The developers are working hard to bring you the latest and greatest version of the game, Dream League Soccer 2024, which is expected to be released on December 5, 2023. This version will introduce a new era of mobile soccer, with new and improved features that will take your gaming experience to the next level. Here are some of the things you can expect from Dream League Soccer 2024:
New and Improved Gameplay: Dream League Soccer 2024 will have new animations and improved AI to revolutionize the soccer experience on mobile. The game will also continue to capture the true spirit of the beautiful game, with realistic physics, dynamic weather, and varied camera angles.
Dressed for Success: Dream League Soccer 2024 will let you customize your manager from a host of different options, including hairstyles and outfits. You can also import your own creations for your team’s kit and logo, or choose from the many available designs.
Conquer the World: Dream League Soccer 2024 will let you compete against players from across the globe with Dream League Live, a feature that puts your club against other elite teams. You can also take part in regular seasons and events to win unrivalled rewards and climb the global leaderboards.
Build Your Soccer Empire: Dream League Soccer 2024 will let you build your soccer empire from your own stadium to medical, commercial, and training facilities. You can also upgrade your stadium to increase its capacity and atmosphere, and unlock new items and bonuses.
More Content and Challenges: Dream League Soccer 2024 will have more content and challenges than ever before, with new players, teams, leagues, and tournaments to discover and enjoy. You can also unlock legendary players and iconic kits from the history of soccer, and test your skills against the best teams in the world.
Dream League Soccer 2024 is a game that will not disappoint you. It will offer you a thrilling and satisfying soccer experience on your mobile device, with endless possibilities and fun. The new era of mobile soccer awaits you!
As someone who loves to chat with friends and family online(like everybody else), I was curious to try out Talk Chart, a chat application that claims to be the first Zimbabwean-owned chat app that allows people to connect seamlessly from any part of the world. I downloaded the app from Google Play Store and installed it on my phone. Here are my thoughts on Talk Chart and its features.
What is Talk Chart?
According to the app description, Talk Chart is a fast, reliable, and secure chat app that lets you stay connected with your friends, family, and colleagues. You can send and receive text messages, photos, videos, voice messages, and more. The app also uses state-of-the-art encryption to keep your messages safe and private. Sounds pretty good, right?
Well, not so fast. The app also promises to offer some features such as buying airtime, electricity, and sending or receiving money through Talk Chart. There’s nothing bad about these though, my greatest concern is that they don’t have Ecocash or Paynow integration even though their target market is Zimbabwe. Crazy right?
How does Talk Chart compare to other chat apps?
The first thing I noticed when I opened the app was how familiar it looked. The app’s interface is almost identical to Whatsapp, the most popular chat app in the world. The app has the a green and blue color scheme, the same layout of tabs, the same icons, and the same fonts.
I was disappointed by the lack of originality and creativity in the app’s design. It felt like the developers just copied Whatsapp and changed a few things here and there. I was expecting something more unique and innovative, something that would reflect the Zimbabwean culture and identity, something that would make me proud to use a local product.
The app’s functionality is also very similar to Whatsapp’s. You can create or join groups, make voice or video calls, send or receive media files, and use emojis or stickers. Although the app doesn’t use Whatsapp’s sticker pack, that’s still not a green flag for me. The app also has a dark mode and a light mode, which you can switch between easily. The app works fine, but it does not offer anything new or different from Whatsapp.
The app’s performance is also not very impressive. The app consumes a lot of data, which is a problem for many Zimbabweans who have limited access to affordable internet. The app also drains the battery quickly, which is another inconvenience. The app also has frequent updates, which can be annoying and time-consuming. The app also has some bugs and glitches, such as messages not being delivered or received, calls being dropped, notifications not working properly and the most annoying one was that I couldn’t set up a profile picture.
What are the pros and cons of Talk Chart
To sum up, here are some of the pros and cons of Talk Chart that I found:
Pros:
It is a Zimbabwean-owned chat app, which is a rare and commendable achievement.
It is easy to use, as it has a familiar and intuitive interface.
It is free to download and use, as it does not charge any subscription fees or ads.
Cons:
It is not original or unique, as it copies Whatsapp’s design and functionality.
It is not innovative or creative, as it does not offer any new or different features.
It is not data or battery efficient, as it consumes a lot of resources.
It is not stable or bug-free, as it has frequent updates and glitches.
My verdict on Talk Chart
Overall, I think Talk Chart is a decent chat app, but it is not a great one. It is not a game-changer, as the developers claim. It is not a one-stop shop, as it does not have the features that it promises. It is not a Zimbabwean pride, as it does not reflect the Zimbabwean spirit.
I appreciate the effort and ambition of the developers, and I support their vision of creating a local product that can compete globally. However, I think they need to work harder and smarter to make Talk Chart stand out from the crowd. They need to improve the app’s design, functionality, performance, and stability. They need to add the features that they promised, and maybe some more that would surprise and delight the users. They need to make Talk Chart more than just a chat app, but a platform that connects, empowers, and enriches the Zimbabwean people.
That’s all for today, guys. Thank you for reading my article. If you have tried Talk Chart, let me know what you think about it in the comments. If you have not tried it yet, you can download it from the Play Store or the App Store and give it a try. if you’re looking for another app by Zimbabwean developers, check out Ruvara Rwakasiyana and Kai.
itel, a Chinese smartphone brand, has recently launched its latest model, the itel A70, in the Philippines. The itel A70 is an entry-level smartphone that runs Android 13 Go Edition and is powered by Unisoc T603 CPU and Mali-G57 GPU. The gadget has internal storage options of 128GB and 256GB and RAM capacities of 3GB and 4GB. It comes with a dual-rear camera setup of 13MP + 0.08MP and a single 8MP selfie camera. The display is 6.6 inches IPS LCD while the screen resolution is 720 x 1612 pixels. It also supports Dual SIM (Dual stand-by). It is fueled with a 5000mAh battery + 10w wired charging. The sensors include a Face ID, fingerprint scanner, accelerometer, etc.
One of the most interesting features of the itel A70 is the dynamic bar, which is a notification bar that mimics the notch or pill-shaped cut-out found on the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Max. The dynamic bar is a small dialog that shows all the notifications and can be swiped to see them one by one. It also supports music controls, text message controls, and volume controls. The dynamic bar can be customized to fit the user’s preferences, such as the size, position, background color, transparency, and edges. The dynamic bar can also be accessed from the lock screen and has a small setting bar that provides useful accessibility features like taking a screenshot, phone screen lock, and power options.
The dynamic bar feature is not exclusive to the itel A70, as it was also seen on the itel S23 Plus, which is a higher-end smartphone that was launched in September 2023. The itel S23 Plus has a 6.78-inch AMOLED curved display with 1080 x 2400 pixels resolution and 90 Hz refresh rate. It also runs on Android 13 with itel OS 13 and has a Unisoc Tiger T616 CPU and Mali-G57 GPU. The itel S23 Plus has a 50MP + 0.08MP dual rear camera and a 32MP front camera. It has 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It also has a 5000mAh battery with 18W fast charging. The itel S23 Plus also has an in-display fingerprint sensor, NFC, and a Dynamic Island feature, which is similar to the dynamic bar but has a different shape and design.
The greatest question is how itel managed to incorporate the dynamic bar feature on a phone with a waterdrop display, which is the case for the itel A70. The waterdrop display is a type of display that has a small notch at the top center that houses the front camera. The dynamic bar feature is usually seen on phones that have a punch hole notch or a pill-shaped cut-out, such as the iPhone 14 Pro series. The answer to this question lies in the software implementation of the dynamic bar feature, which does not depend on the hardware design of the display. The dynamic bar feature is essentially a software overlay that can be placed anywhere on the screen, regardless of the shape or size of the notch. The dynamic bar feature can also be hidden or shown according to the user’s preference. Therefore, itel was able to create a dynamic bar feature for the itel A70 by using a software solution that does not interfere with the waterdrop display.
The dynamic bar feature is a creative and innovative way to use the notification bar on Android phones. It adds a touch of style and functionality to the phone’s display and makes it more interactive and customizable. The itel A70 is one of the few budget phones that offer this feature, along with the itel S23 Plus, which is a more premium phone. The dynamic bar feature is a unique selling point for the itel A70 and the itel S23 Plus, as it sets them apart from other Android phones in the market.
Sasai was once hailed as Zimbabwe’s first and leading super app, a global social payments and digital marketplace platform that aimed to improve the overall quality of life for all Africans. Launched in 2019 by Cassava Fintech International, a subsidiary of Econet Wireless, Sasai offered a range of services such as money transfer, bill payment, chat, music streaming, gaming, and more. It was available in over 50 African countries and supported 40 languages, including local dialects.
Sasai seemed to have a promising future, especially after partnering with some of the continent’s leading brands such as DStv, Kwese, and Showmax. It also claimed to have over 5000 low-cost and free Wi-Fi hotspots across Africa, as well as a feature that allowed users to earn money by watching ads on the app. Sasai’s vision was to become the “WeChat of Africa”, a reference to the Chinese super app that has over a billion users and offers a variety of services from social media to e-commerce.
However, despite its ambitious goals and impressive features, Sasai failed to gain traction among the African users. According to the Google Play Store, Sasai had only 500,000+ downloads as of September 2022, a far cry from its target of 100 million users by 2020. The app also received mixed reviews from the users, who complained about its poor user interface, frequent crashes, high data consumption, and lack of customer support. Some users also questioned the security and privacy of the app, as it required access to many permissions and personal information.
So, what went wrong with Sasai? Why did it not live up to its hype and potential? There are several possible reasons for its downfall, such as:
Competition: Sasai faced stiff competition from other established and popular apps in the African market, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, M-Pesa, Jumia, and Uber. These apps already had a loyal and large user base, and offered similar or better services than Sasai. Sasai also had to contend with the dominance of mobile network operators, who controlled the access and pricing of data and voice services in most African countries.
Complexity: Sasai tried to do too many things at once, without focusing on its core value proposition and differentiating factor. It was not clear what problem Sasai was trying to solve, or what benefit it was offering to the users. Sasai also lacked a clear and consistent branding and marketing strategy, as it used different names and logos in different countries and platforms. Sasai’s app was also cluttered and confusing, with too many features and options that overwhelmed and frustrated the users.
Culture: Sasai failed to understand and adapt to the diverse and dynamic needs and preferences of the African users. Sasai assumed that what worked in China or other markets would work in Africa, without conducting proper research and testing. Sasai also ignored the local context and realities of the African countries, such as the low internet penetration, high data costs, low smartphone adoption, and regulatory challenges. Sasai also did not engage with the local communities and stakeholders, such as developers, merchants, influencers, and media, to build trust and awareness.
Sasai’s story is a cautionary tale for any aspiring or existing app developer or entrepreneur who wants to succeed in the African market. It shows that having a good idea and a lot of resources is not enough, if you do not understand your target audience and deliver value to them. It also shows that being a super app is not a goal in itself, but a result of solving a specific problem and satisfying a specific need. Sasai may have been a super app in theory, but it was not a super app in practice.
Android is the most popular mobile operating system in the world, powering billions of devices from smartphones and tablets to smartwatches and TVs. Every year, Google releases a new version of Android with new features, improvements, and security updates. The latest version is Android 14, which was officially launched on October 4, 2023, along with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.
Android 14 is not a major overhaul of the system, but rather an iterative update that builds on the previous versions. It brings some new features to make your device more personal, protected, and accessible, as well as some enhancements for developers and app makers. Here are some of the highlights of Android 14 that you should know.
Personalization
One of the main themes of Android 14 is personalization. Google wants you to be able to customize your device to suit your preferences and express your personality. Here are some of the ways you can do that with Android 14.
AI-generated wallpapers: Android 14 introduces a new feature that lets you create unique and truly customized wallpapers powered by artificial intelligence. You just need to follow some guided prompts to express yourself however you imagine, and the system will generate a wallpaper that matches your style and mood. This feature is coming first to Pixel phones soon.
Lock screen customization: Android 14 also gives you more tools to customize your lock screen and home screen. You can choose from different clocks, shortcuts, widgets, and themes to make your device more you. Pixel devices also get some exclusive options, such as monochrome themes and notification flashes.
Larger fonts and smarter scaling: If you have trouble reading small text on your screen, Android 14 has a solution for you. You can now scale the font size up to 200% in Android 14, compared to 130% in Android 13. The system also uses non-linear font scaling, which means that text that is already large won’t get bigger, while text that is small will get larger. This way, you can enjoy a balanced and comfortable reading experience.
Privacy and Security
Another theme of Android 14 is privacy and security. Google wants you to feel safe and in control of your data and device. Here are some of the ways you can do that with Android 14.
Data sharing details: Android 14 proactively gives you easy-to-understand information about the data permissions of the apps you use. You can see what access you grant to each app, and how often they use it. You can also revoke or change the permissions at any time. This feature is available in the Settings app, under Privacy.
Passkeys for third-party apps: Android 14 introduces a new way to sign in to your favorite apps and websites without using passwords. You can use passkeys, which are secure and unique codes that are generated and stored on your device. You can use your biometric authentication, such as your fingerprint or face, to unlock your passkeys and sign in. This feature is compatible with apps that support the FIDO2 standard.
Restricting photo and video access: Android 14 gives you more control over who can access your photos and videos on your device. You can choose to grant access to only the photos and videos that you select, instead of giving access to your entire gallery. This way, you can protect your privacy and avoid accidental or unwanted sharing of your personal media.
Enhanced security: Android 14 also brings some improvements to the security of your device and data. For example, you can now use a recommended 6-digit unlock password, which is stronger than the 4-digit one. You can also unlock your device automatically once you enter the correct PIN of six digits or more, reducing the friction of unlocking. Android 14 also prohibits the installation of apps that are too old or outdated, as they may pose a security risk.
Accessibility
The last theme of Android 14 is accessibility. Google wants you to be able to use your device easily and comfortably, regardless of your abilities or disabilities. Here are some of the ways you can do that with Android 14.
Health Connect: Android 14 introduces a new feature that lets you connect your favorite health and fitness apps, and see your health and fitness data in one place. You can also stay in control of your privacy, and choose what data you want to share and with whom. Health Connect is available in the Settings app, under Health.
Better hearing aid support: Android 14 improves the support for hearing aids on your device. You can now pair and connect multiple hearing aids at the same time, and switch between them easily. You can also adjust the volume and settings of your hearing aids from your device, and enjoy a better sound quality and battery life.
Better support for large screens: Android 14 also improves the support for large screens, such as tablets and foldable devices. You can now use more apps in split-screen mode, and resize them to your liking. You can also use the new App Pairs feature, which lets you create and launch pairs of apps that you use together, such as YouTube and Gmail, or Maps and Spotify.
Notification flashes: Android 14 also adds a new accessibility feature that lets you use your camera flash as a notification indicator. You can enable this feature in the Settings app, under Accessibility, and choose which types of notifications you want to flash for. This can be useful for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, or who prefer visual cues over sounds.
How to get Android 14
If you are wondering how to get Android 14 on your device, here are some things you need to know.
Pixel devices: If you have a Pixel device that is eligible for Android 14, you should receive a notification on your device when the update is ready. You just need to follow the instructions, download, and install the update. The eligible Pixel devices are: Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, Pixel 7a, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7, Pixel 6a, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6, Pixel 5a, Pixel 5, Pixel 4a 5G.
Other devices: If you have a device from another brand, such as Samsung, OnePlus, or Xiaomi, you will need to wait for the manufacturer to release the Android 14 update for your device. This may take some time, as they need to customize the system with their own software skins and features. Google has said that Android 14 will be available on phones from Samsung, iQOO, Nothing, OnePlus, OPPO, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, vivo, and Xiaomi later this year.
Conclusion
Android 14 is the latest version of the Android operating system, and it brings some new features and improvements to make your device more personal, protected, and accessible. You can customize your device with AI-generated wallpapers, larger fonts, and lock screen options. You can protect your privacy and security with data sharing details, passkeys, and photo and video restrictions. You can also use your device more easily and comfortably with Health Connect, better hearing aid support, and notification flashes. If you have a Pixel device, you can get Android 14 now. If you have a device from another brand, you will need to wait for the update to arrive later this year.
WhatsApp, the popular messaging app with over two billion users, has recently introduced a new feature that allows users to have two different accounts on the same device. This feature is especially helpful for those who want to separate their work and personal accounts, or for those who have multiple phone numbers or SIM cards. In this article, we will explain how to set up and switch between multiple accounts on WhatsApp, and what are the benefits and limitations of this feature.
How to set up a second account on WhatsApp
To set up a second account on WhatsApp, you will need a second phone number and SIM card, or a device that supports multi-SIM or eSIM. If you have a device that takes multiple SIM cards, you can use one of them for your second account. If you have a device that supports eSIM, you can download a virtual SIM card from your carrier or a third-party provider. Once you have a second phone number, follow these steps to create a second account on WhatsApp:
Open your WhatsApp settings.
Tap the small arrow next to your name and select “Add account”.
Enter your second phone number and verify it with a code sent to you via SMS or a call.
You can now customize your profile by adding a name, a photo, and an about field as usual.
You can repeat these steps to add up to two accounts on your device. Note that this feature is currently only available for Android users.
How to switch between accounts on WhatsApp
Once you have set up your second account, you can easily switch between your accounts on the same device. To do so, follow these steps:
Open your WhatsApp.
Tap the small arrow next to your name and select the account you want to use.
You can see the messages and calls from your active account, while your idle account will receive notifications for new messages and calls.
You can also respond to notifications from your idle account by tapping on them and choosing to switch accounts. This will take you to the switch accounts loading screen, where you can access the content from your idle account.
What are the benefits and limitations of multiple accounts on WhatsApp
Having multiple accounts on WhatsApp can offer you several benefits, such as:
You can keep your work and personal accounts separate and avoid mixing up your contacts and conversations.
You can use different phone numbers for different purposes, such as online shopping, dating, or travel.
You can have more privacy and control over your accounts by setting different notification and privacy settings for each account.
However, there are also some limitations and challenges that you should be aware of, such as:
You can only have a maximum of two accounts on your device. If you want to use more than two accounts, you will need to use another device or log out and log in each time.
You can only use one account at a time. You will need to switch accounts to see the content from your idle account.
You will need to have a separate phone number and SIM card for each account. This may incur additional costs and hassle for you.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s multiple account feature is a useful and convenient option for users who want to have two different accounts on the same device. It allows you to separate your work and personal accounts, use different phone numbers for different purposes, and have more privacy and control over your accounts. However, you should also consider the limitations and challenges of this feature, such as the maximum number of accounts, the need to switch accounts, and the requirement of a separate phone number and SIM card for each account. If you are interested in trying out this feature, you can follow the steps above to set up and switch between multiple accounts on WhatsApp. You can also find out more about the WhatsApp multiple user feature on Tech Tutorials Hub
