Samsung's new Galaxy S26 Ultra may be mere weeks away, and I've got a few things I especially want to see. In my 14 years as a seen reviewer, I have tested every Galaxy Ultra model going, including the latest S25 Ultra. I've taken countless photos, played loads of games, scrolled through endless images of cake on Instagram.So, I've learned a thing or two about what makes these phones good, but also how they can be improved. So, with the 26 Ultra almost upon us, here's what I want to see Samsung do. Samsung' ...

Core Insights - The Vivo X300 Pro was launched in India on December 2, 2025, priced at Rs 1,09,999, featuring a single configuration of 16 GB RAM and 512 GB storage [1][41] - The device aims to compete directly with flagship models like the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S25 Ultra, showcasing significant improvements in camera technology and overall performance [35][40] Design and Build - The X300 Pro retains Vivo's circular camera design while modernizing the overall look with a flat frame, back, and display, available in Elite Black and Dune Gold [2][3] - The device weighs 226 grams and features an aluminum alloy frame with glass on both sides, achieving IP68 and IP69 ratings for water resistance [3] - The introduction of a shortcut button enhances user experience by allowing customizable quick actions [4] Display and Audio - The phone features a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution and a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate, offering improved brightness of up to 4,500 nits [7][8] - The audio experience is enhanced with loud and clear stereo speakers, providing a convincing media experience [10][42] Software and Performance - The X300 Pro runs on OriginOS 6 based on Android 16, promising five major Android upgrades and seven years of security updates, with smoother animations and improved user interface [11][12] - It is powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 9500 chip, showing significant performance improvements over the previous generation, with efficient multitasking capabilities [16][17] Battery and Charging - The device is equipped with a 6510 mAh silicon-carbon battery, providing around 8+ hours of screen-on time, and supports 90W wired and 40W wireless charging [20][21] - The improved battery chemistry is expected to enhance longevity and usability during travel [22] Camera System - The rear camera setup includes a 50 MP main camera, a 200 MP periscope telephoto lens with 3.7x optical zoom, and a 50 MP ultra-wide camera, while the front camera has been upgraded to 50 MP with autofocus [23][34] - The camera system benefits from a multi-chip pipeline for enhanced image processing, resulting in improved dynamic range and detail in various lighting conditions [24][26] - The X300 Pro excels in portrait and zoom photography, often outperforming competitors in terms of detail and subject separation [27][28] Conclusion - The Vivo X300 Pro represents a significant advancement in Vivo's flagship offerings, combining strong camera capabilities with a modern design and robust performance, making it a serious contender in the premium smartphone market [35][40]

Core Viewpoint - Samsung Electronics has launched its first tri-fold smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, showcasing its engineering capabilities in the foldable device market, despite being over a year late compared to competitors like Huawei [1][3]. Product Launch and Market Position - The Galaxy Z TriFold will debut in South Korea on December 12, priced at 3.59 million KRW (approximately $2,450), and will later be available in markets including China, Singapore, UAE, and the USA [1]. - Samsung's launch precedes Apple's anticipated foldable iPhone, expected in fall next year, which will feature a book-style design similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 released earlier this year [3]. Design and Features - The TriFold utilizes a dual-hinge design, allowing it to unfold into a tablet-sized device, while Huawei's Mate XT features a Z-shaped structure when folded [4]. - In tablet mode, the device can run multiple applications simultaneously, akin to using three 6.5-inch smartphones side by side, enhancing multitasking capabilities [6]. - The device is equipped with a 5,600 mAh battery, the largest capacity for Samsung's foldable phones to date, supporting up to 17 hours of continuous video playback when fully unfolded [6]. User Experience and Software - The TriFold features intuitive operation, with alerts for incorrect folding methods, and includes a complete Galaxy AI software suite, offering various generative editing and assistant functionalities [8]. - Samsung has optimized the device's hinge, aluminum frame, and display technology for durability, and offers a 50% discount on screen repair costs if needed [6]. Sales Performance and Future Outlook - Initial sales of Samsung's new foldable phones have often surpassed previous models, but still lag behind more affordable models like the Galaxy S25 Ultra [8]. - Following its recent release pattern, Samsung is expected to launch the Galaxy S26 series early next year [8].

Group 1 - Samsung Electronics has launched its first tri-fold smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, showcasing engineering breakthroughs in the foldable device sector, despite the category not being widely accepted in the mainstream market [1] - The device features a dual-hinge design that expands to a 10-inch tablet-sized screen, set to debut in South Korea on December 12, priced at 3.59 million KRW (approximately 2,450 USD), with plans to enter markets in mainland China, Taiwan, Singapore, and the UAE [1] - The launch precedes Apple's anticipated foldable iPhone, expected to be unveiled in the fall of next year, which may feature a design similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 released in July [1] Group 2 - The TriFold employs a dual inward-folding design, allowing for three independent applications to run simultaneously on a screen equivalent to three 6.5-inch smartphones side by side, enhanced by Samsung DeX software for a desktop-like interface [2] - Samsung has reinforced the durability of the device with improved hinges, aluminum alloy frames, and display technology, offering a 50% discount on display screen replacements [2] - The device is equipped with a 5,600 mAh battery, the largest capacity for Samsung's foldable models, supporting 17 hours of continuous video playback in full-screen mode, although regular usage battery data has not been disclosed [2]

Core Insights - Samsung Electronics has launched its first tri-fold smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, ahead of Apple's anticipated entry into the foldable market, aiming to solidify its technological leadership in this emerging field [1] - The device features two hinges and transforms into a tablet-sized device when unfolded, set to debut in South Korea on December 12 at a price of 3.59 million KRW (approximately $2,450) [1] - Samsung's early release of a more complex tri-fold device highlights its competitive edge in foldable technology and sets a new benchmark for the high-end market [1] Product Features - The Galaxy Z TriFold boasts a new form factor and enhanced multitasking capabilities, with an external screen size comparable to standard smartphones and a 10-inch display when fully opened, surpassing the Galaxy Z Fold 7 [2] - In tablet mode, the three screens can run different applications independently, akin to using three 6.5-inch smartphones side by side, and supports up to four independent workspaces in DeX mode, allowing five applications to run simultaneously [2] Market Competition - The launch of the tri-fold smartphone directly competes with Huawei's Mate XT, which has already entered the foldable market in China, the largest market for such devices [4] - Huawei's upgraded Mate XTs are priced similarly to the Galaxy Z TriFold, although Samsung's device is noted to have better Android app compatibility [4] Design and Durability - Samsung has improved the hinge, aluminum frame, and display technology of the Galaxy Z TriFold to enhance long-term durability, offering a one-time 50% discount on display repairs to alleviate consumer concerns [5][6] - The device measures only 3.9 mm at its thinnest point and features a 5600 mAh battery, the largest capacity used in Samsung's foldable phones, supporting up to 17 hours of continuous video playback when fully opened [6] Software and Market Outlook - The Galaxy Z TriFold includes Samsung's Galaxy AI feature suite, offering generative editing, photo assistance, and writing assistance, along with a six-month trial of Google AI Pro subscription service [9] - Despite recent foldable phone sales exceeding previous models, they remain insignificant compared to more affordable traditional models like the Galaxy S25 Ultra, and the market's response to the Galaxy Z TriFold's unique features and capabilities remains to be seen [9]

Core Insights - The smartphone sales in Western Europe declined by 1% year-on-year in the first two weeks of October, indicating a sluggish regional economy and low consumer confidence [4][5][8] - Xiaomi experienced a 7% decline in sales, impacting overall market performance, while Apple saw a 2% increase in sales driven by the strong performance of the iPhone 17 series [8][9] - Honor's sales dropped by 4% due to the absence of new product launches, although it has been one of the fastest-growing brands in Western Europe [9] Market Performance - In the first two weeks of October, Xiaomi's sales decreased by 7%, attributed to the underperformance of its newly launched 15T series compared to previous models [8][9] - Apple achieved a 2% year-on-year growth, supported by the iPhone 17 series and the introduction of the iPhone Air, which is expected to account for about 10% of the iPhone 17 series sales [8] - Samsung maintained a strong position in the high-end market with a 30% market share, driven by the success of its Galaxy S25 Ultra and S25 models [8] Brand Analysis - Honor's sales decline of 4% is seen as temporary, as the brand has experienced continuous growth for 30 months, largely due to its successful foldable screen products [9] - The overall market performance in Western Europe is affected by Xiaomi's decline, while Apple's strong sales indicate a positive trend for its products [9]

Core Insights - Hardware remains the cornerstone of the consumer technology ecosystem in the Middle East and Africa, with smartphones and personal computers being essential for connectivity, streaming, gaming, and transactions [1] - Revenue from hardware is projected to grow from $32.9 billion in 2020 to approximately $41.9 billion by 2027, while media and entertainment spending is expected to nearly double from $18 billion to $36 billion during the same period [1] - The trend of bundling services with devices is becoming increasingly significant, particularly in affluent markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where manufacturers are repositioning devices as experience platforms driven by services [3][6] Hardware and Services Growth - The average revenue per user (ARPU) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) exceeds $20, creating opportunities for service bundling and raising user expectations [1] - By Q2 2025, the Middle East and Africa will account for only 14% of global telecom operators' partnerships with OTT providers, despite a predominance of mobile users [1] - The MENA region's online video market is expected to grow over fivefold by 2029, reaching $8.4 billion, highlighting the need for a shift from subsidy-driven models to sustainable subscription systems [9][15] Ecosystem Collaboration - Telecom operators and retailers play a crucial role as enablers in the ecosystem, using multi-layered service bundles to prevent ARPU decline and reduce churn [8] - Bundled packages, such as those combining Netflix, Anghami Plus, and iCloud storage with flagship devices, provide significant profit margins in high ARPU markets [8] - Retailers are transitioning from hardware sellers to integral parts of the service ecosystem, collaborating with streaming or software providers to enhance value at sales touchpoints [12] User Experience and Market Dynamics - The focus of marketing is shifting from specifications to user experience, exemplified by collaborations like Samsung's foldable phones bundled with streaming services [11] - The competitive landscape in the Middle East and Africa is intense, with many bundles starting as subsidized offers, which can lead to a perception of services as non-essential if not properly converted into sustainable subscriptions [9][15] - The collaboration between manufacturers, telecom operators, and service providers is essential for expanding market scale and achieving long-term value [10][15]

Core Insights - Counterpoint Research is a global market research firm focused on the technology ecosystem, providing comprehensive market data and strategic consulting services across various sectors, including smartphones, AI, and IoT [26]. Market Overview - The global smartphone market data is derived from Counterpoint's report, which forecasts smartphone shipments and average selling prices (ASP) by OEM and region until 2028 [4][8]. - The report includes detailed analysis of smartphone model sales, component trends, and driving factors across different price segments, covering 99% of the global smartphone market [8]. Top-Selling Smartphones - In Q1 2025, Apple iPhone 16 was the best-selling smartphone for the second consecutive quarter, with the iPhone 16 Pro series following closely [9]. - The iPhone 16e entered the top ten in Q2 2025, driven by strong sales in Japan and the US [9]. - Samsung secured four positions in the top ten, with the Galaxy A16 5G performing particularly well, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra benefiting from extensive marketing around generative AI features [9]. - Xiaomi's Redmi 14C 4G was the only model from the brand in the top ten, showing solid performance in emerging markets like Latin America and the Middle East and Africa [9].

Group 1 - Samsung launched a social media campaign targeting Apple's iPhone 17 series, using the hashtag iCant to highlight perceived shortcomings in hardware specifications and innovation [1][2] - The main focus of Samsung's criticism was on the camera specifications, comparing the iPhone 17 Pro's three 48MP lenses to the Galaxy S25 Ultra's single 200MP camera, suggesting that Apple's configuration is inferior [1] - Samsung also criticized Apple for delayed feature releases, claiming that functionalities like the "Sleep Score" and real-time translation in AirPods Pro 3 were already available in Samsung products five years ago [2] Group 2 - Samsung emphasized its lead in foldable screen technology, referencing a previous post to mock Apple's lack of a foldable iPhone, while the Galaxy Z series has been established in this market for years [2][3] - The social media campaign generated significant engagement, with the iCant hashtag trending and Samsung's posts receiving thousands of likes and shares, reflecting a divided public opinion [2] - Analysts suggest that Samsung's strategy aims to solidify its advantages in AI and foldable technology, especially as Apple may not release a foldable iPhone until 2026 [3]

Core Viewpoint - Apple has launched the iPhone 17 series, marking a significant upgrade compared to previous models, aiming to regain market competitiveness against Android devices [1][13]. Group 1: Product Features and Market Response - The iPhone 17 series includes major upgrades such as ProMotion refresh rates across all models, with the iPhone Air being notably thin at 5.6mm [3][14]. - The iPhone 17 standard version has seen a surge in pre-orders, totaling 2.78 million units, with 41.9% for the standard version, indicating a shift to a more balanced market structure [8][24]. - The iPhone 17 standard version has been equipped with flagship-level features, including LTPO screens and enhanced durability, which reflects Apple's strategy to compete more effectively in the mid-range market [16][25]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - The launch of the iPhone 17 series is seen as a response to the increasing pressure from Android manufacturers, which have been offering high-spec devices at lower prices [8][26]. - Apple's market share has been declining, with its shipments in China dropping significantly, leading to concerns about its competitive position [12][13]. - The iPhone 17 series aims to establish a new benchmark in the entry-level flagship smartphone segment, challenging the narrative of "alternative" Android devices [26][30]. Group 3: Financial Implications and Strategy - Despite rising costs due to tariffs, Apple has opted to maintain competitive pricing for the iPhone 17 standard version, which is priced lower than its predecessor [25][30]. - The company has experienced a rebound in sales in the Greater China region, with a 4% year-on-year increase in Q3 2025, suggesting that the new pricing strategy may be effective [25][30]. - Apple's shift towards hardware improvements indicates a strategic pivot as its software ecosystem faces increasing competition from Android manufacturers [30][34].