Xiaomi has announced that they’re currently working on a WinPlay Engine which lets you play Windows X86 and X64 games on Android. Yes, you will be able to play your favorite PC games on Xiaomi tablets.
WinPlay on Xiaomi tablets
The best part about it is that Xiaomi is promising that they will be able to have a 2.9% GPU performance loss only which means that it will really have a small tax on performance. However, it was not mentioned what will be the CPU performance loss which is prevalent on emulators like this.
The WinPlay isn’t the first time we have seen as there are already Windows emulators such as Winlator on Android that lets you run games like GTA V on Android devices.
According to Xiaomi, WinPlay will support Steam which will let you access to a thousands of library of games. But take note, not all games works well with emulators like WinPlay as anti cheats and compatibility issues might arise.
Xiaomi is currently recruiting testers in China to try WinPlay on their Xiaomi Pad 6s Pro 12.4. To give you an idea, the tablet is pretty powerful as it comes with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset with up to 16GB of RAM. That chipset is powerful enough to run some of the modern PC games but at a lower settings.
Instagram Head Adam Mosseri recently addressed user concerns about the platform’s shift to a vertical feed layout, a change that has sparked mixed reactions among users.
In a statement, Mosseri explained that the move aims to better showcase the predominantly vertical content, like Reels and Stories, being shared on Instagram.
“We introduced the vertical grid because most photos and videos uploaded to Instagram today are vertical, and this format showcases them more effectively,” Mosseri stated. He acknowledged that the change disrupted the carefully curated grids of many users and promised upcoming features to give users more control over their profiles’ appearance.
These planned updates include tools to customize thumbnails and rearrange the grid, allowing users to personalize their profiles. Mosseri also hinted at the possibility of relocating Highlights to a separate tab and introducing an option to post directly to the grid, bypassing the main feed altogether.
While some users have expressed frustration with the new layout, Mosseri emphasized that these changes are part of Instagram’s ongoing effort to simplify the platform and enhance user experience in the age of vertical content. He believes these updates will ultimately provide a cleaner and more user-friendly space for creators and consumers alike.
When HONOR announced the release of the HONOR X9c, we expected it to raise the bar for mid-range smartphones in terms of durability. In the Philippines, where typhoons and floods are common, a phone that can withstand tough conditions is more than a luxury, it’s a necessity. With the expectation that the X9c would survive the harshest conditions, we were curious to see how it performed in other key areas. After using it as our main device for a month, here’s our full review.
HONOR X9c Review: Design
The HONOR X9c has a clean and modern design that feels comfortable in the hand. Its slim profile and fingerprint-resistant finish make it practical for everyday use. Our review unit came in the Jade Cyan variant, which features a polycarbonate back panel with a stylish design. The sleek look eliminates the need for a protective case purely for aesthetics. However, due to the phone’s slippery body, we opted to use a clear case to prevent accidental drops.
Speaking of durability, HONOR claims the X9c can survive drops of up to two meters, and our tests confirmed this. The device is built to withstand rough conditions, equipped with an IP65 rating for dust and splash resistance. It’s also resistant to extreme hot and cold temperatures, making it adaptable to a variety of environments.
To put the X9c to the test, we subjected it to torture tests, including a drop test, boiling test, smash test, and knife test. It passed with flying colors, showing no signs of damage that would compromise its functionality. These tests prove that it’s a reliable option for the unpredictable conditions in the Philippines, where sudden rain or flooding is always a possibility. Knowing your phone can handle rough treatment is a major relief.
The HONOR X9c features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Scrolling, animations, and transitions are smooth, and the screen delivers vibrant colors and sharp images. The display is also bright enough for outdoor use, making it ideal for watching videos, browsing social media, or gaming on the go.
Audio performance is decent, with clear output from the built-in speakers. While they’re not groundbreaking, the sound quality is sufficient for casual streaming or video calls. For a more immersive experience, we recommend using headphones.
HONOR X9c Review: Software and Performance
The HONOR X9c runs on MagicOS 8.0, based on Android 14. The interface is straightforward and responsive, with minimal bloatware, a big plus in our book. Features like multi-window support and smart collaboration with other HONOR devices enhance productivity, making the phone versatile for both work and play.
Under the hood, the HONOR X9c is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It handles day-to-day tasks like messaging, browsing, and social media without hiccups. Multitasking feels smooth, and the ample storage is more than enough for apps, photos, and videos.
Here are its benchmark scores:
For gaming, the HONOR X9c delivers a decent experience for light to moderate titles like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, which run smoothly without any issues. More demanding games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty: Mobile are playable at medium to high settings, but the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset does show its limitations. Extended gameplay leads to noticeable heating, and frame drops can occur during intense scenes, especially in graphically demanding scenarios.
While the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 isn’t the most powerful chipset at this price point, it’s still capable of handling casual gaming and day-to-day tasks effectively. However, this device is definitely not for extreme gamers who prioritize consistent performance at max settings.
But of course, for most users who enjoy casual and light gaming on the side, the HONOR X9c offers a good experience.
HONOR X9c Review: Camera
The HONOR X9c is more than just a durable phone. It also performs well in the camera department. The device features a dual rear camera setup, consisting of a 108MP main sensor with OIS and a 5MP wide-angle lens, along with a 16MP front-facing camera for selfies.
Although the X9c drops one sensor compared to its predecessor, its AI processing capabilities result in better image quality. The 108MP main camera produces vibrant and detailed photos, especially in well-lit conditions. Portraits have good subject separation, and night shots are surprisingly impressive, thanks to the improved Night Mode.
However, the phone does fall short when it comes to zoom capabilities, as it lacks a telephoto sensor. Additionally, AI processing can sometimes be overly aggressive, particularly when taking food photos. While this isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s worth noting for users who prioritize natural image rendering.
Selfies taken with the front-facing camera are social media-ready, offering good detail and natural skin tones. The camera setup, while not flagship-level, is more than adequate for everyday photography needs.
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HONOR X9c Review: Battery Life
The HONOR X9c is equipped with a 6600mAh battery, which delivers excellent longevity. With regular usage—social media, messaging, and light gaming—the phone easily lasts more than a day. During heavy use, including extended gaming and streaming, it still manages to provide around 13 hours of screen-on time.
In our tests, the PCMark Battery Life test recorded an impressive 14 hours and 40 minutes. Additionally, the 66W fast charging feature is a standout. It charges the phone from 20% to 100% in just under an hour, making it ideal for users with busy schedules.
The combination of a long-lasting battery and fast-charging capability makes the HONOR X9c a dependable choice for users who are always on the go.
Verdict: HONOR X9c, A Reliable Phone for Everyday Life
The HONOR X9c is a well-rounded smartphone that excels in durability, making it a practical choice for users in the Philippines. At Php16,999, it provides a great balance between toughness and functionality.
After just a few hours of TikTok being down due to the U.S. ban, the platform is already back online, thanks to President-elect Donald Trump.
TikTok stopped working in the U.S. late Saturday after a law shut it down over national security concerns. However, hours after the ban, President-elect Trump announced that access to TikTok would be restored when he assumes the presidency this Monday.
“As a result of President Trump’s efforts, TikTok is back in the U.S.,” the social media app stated in a message to users.
Trump has said he would extend the time period before the ban takes effect. He also mentioned his intention for the U.S. to have 50% ownership of TikTok as part of this venture.
Trump also announced he would grant TikTok a 90-day reprieve from the ban upon taking office this Monday.
A new flagship Galaxy smartphone might arrive soon and it’s the Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim. The slim smartphone is rumored to be in the works for a quite a while now and OnLeaks and Smartprix has posted a renders of the smartphone which will be called the Galaxy S25 Slim.
This smartphone will still have a design similar to the other Galaxy S25 smartphones and it is rumored to have a flat back and front with a triple camera lens at the back with a vertical layout which is a design that is being carried by other Galaxy smartphones.
The main attraction with this smartphone is how thin it is. It is rumored to have a 6.4mm thickness only Just to compare, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is 8.25mm thick which means that the Galaxy S25 Slim is expected to be 22.42% slimmer than the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The rumoured specs includes a 200MP main camera, a 50MP ultrawide camera, and a 50MP telephoto camera. It is also expected to come with the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chip inside with 12GB of RAM.
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim is expected to be unveiled at the Unpacked event this week.
HUAWEI has officially launched its latest foldable smartphone, the Mate X6, in the Philippines. This flagship device is now available for pre-order, priced at Php114,999, and comes with exciting freebies and pre-order promo.
The Mate X6 features a 7.93-inch flexible OLED display with a 2440 x 2240 resolution, offering an immersive viewing experience. When folded, the device has a 6.45-inch 3D Quad Curved OLED LTPO cover display. Both screens are protected by 2nd-generation Kunlun Glass for durability against scratches and accidental drops.
Under the hood, it is powered by the Kirin 9020 octa-core processor, paired with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. It runs on EMUI 15.0 and is backed by a 5,110mAh battery with 66W wired SuperCharge and 50W wireless charging.
HUAWEI also improved the Mate X6’s cameras, sporting a 50MP Ultra aperture sensor, 40MP ultra-wide angle lens, and 48MP telephoto micro shooter.
HUAWEI Mate X6 Philippine Pricing and Availability
The HUAWEI Mate X6 is available for Php114,999 and comes in Nebular Red and Black color options. Pre-order customers can enjoy generous freebies, including:
The pre-order period runs from January 17 to 30, 2025, and customers can place their orders through HUAWEI’s official online store and authorized retailers.
Pre-order now and take advantage of the limited-time promo until January 30, 2025.
Let us know what you think in the comments section!
HUAWEI officially announced its new nova 13 Series, consisting of the nova 13 Pro, nova 13, and nova 13i. This new line from HUAWEI are camera-focused smartphones designed for content creators and selfie enthusiasts.
The nova 13 Pro is equipped with a pill-shaped notch that houses a 60MP ultra-wide selfie camera and an 8MP portrait lens, making it a top choice for selfie lovers and vloggers. Meanwhile, the nova 13 also features the 60MP ultra-wide selfie camera, but it lacks the additional portrait lens found on the Pro variant. Both models emphasize front-facing photography, ensuring sharp and detailed selfies in any condition.
Under the hood, the nova 13 series is powered by HUAWEI’s in-house Kirin 8000 chipset.
Pre-Order Deals for HUAWEI nova 13 Series
HUAWEI nova 13 Pro
SRP: Php32,999
Freebies: HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 (worth Php12,999)
After spending over a month with the TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 as our main device, we’ve had plenty of time to test its features, strengths, and overall usability. While we shared an initial review earlier, extended use has given us a clearer picture of how this foldable smartphone performs in the competitive market.
TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 Review: Design
As we mentioned in our initial impressions, the TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 is a head-turner. Its sleek and compact design stands out in the foldable phone market. When unfolded, it measures just 7.64mm thin, which is impressively slim for a foldable. Fold it up, and it’s only 16mm thick—compact enough to slip easily into your pocket or a small pouch.
The metal frame gives the phone a premium feel, and we tested the Travertine Green color variant, which we found stylish and chic. It’s a color that effortlessly blends sophistication and personality. TECNO also includes a set of matching stickers in the box, along with themed wallpapers, but we chose to leave the phone bare to maintain its clean and premium look.
While using the device in public, we noticed it consistently caught people’s attention, with many asking about the model. Beyond the aesthetics, the build quality is solid. Even after a month, the phone feels sturdy, and the foldable mechanism remains smooth. It doesn’t feel fragile when opening or closing, which is often a concern with foldable phones. TECNO has done a great job making the device look and feel reliable.
TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 Review: Display
One of the most common questions about flip phones is, “How functional is the cover display?” Fortunately, the external display on the Phantom V Flip 2 is more than just a gimmick. It provides quick access to notifications, lets you check the time, and even allows you to use apps like the camera or Spotify without unfolding the phone.
The main display is equally impressive. It features an AMOLED panel that delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, making it ideal for watching videos or browsing photos. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and navigation, enhancing the overall user experience. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or simply browsing social media, the display offers an immersive experience.
One thing worth mentioning is the crease on the display. When you’re using the phone for an extended period, the crease becomes almost unnoticeable as your eyes seem to ignore it automatically. However, the moment your finger touches it, the crease becomes noticeable again. There are also certain angles where the crease is much more visible, but for the most part, it doesn’t interfere with the user experience.
The stereo speakers provide clear and balanced audio, sufficient for everyday use. While audiophiles might prefer external speakers or wireless earbuds for richer sound quality, the built-in speakers are good enough for casual listening and watching videos. For its price and compact design, the multimedia experience on the TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 is satisfying.
TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 Review: Software
The TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 runs on HiOS, TECNO’s custom Android skin, which offers a clean and straightforward interface. After using it for a month, we found HiOS to be both user-friendly and feature-rich. The interface feels intuitive, with a nice range of customization options to suit your preferences. You can easily tweak the theme, icons, and animations to give the phone a personal touch.
One standout feature is Dynamic Port, TECNO’s take on Apple’s Dynamic Island. It uses the in-display camera area to display notifications and other useful information through animations.
TECNO promises at least two major OS updates and regular security patches for this device, ensuring software longevity. Throughout our usage, the software felt stable and user-friendly, with no major bugs or glitches.
TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 Review: Performance
Under the hood, the TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 is powered by a capable MediaTek Dimensity 8020 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM. After a month of use, we can confidently say that the phone handles day-to-day tasks with ease. Whether it’s browsing, social media, or light gaming, the Phantom V Flip 2 keeps up without any noticeable lag or stutter.
Benchmark Results:
Gaming on this device is enjoyable, thanks to its AMOLED screen and decent processing power. While it may not match flagship devices in terms of raw performance, it’s more than sufficient for casual gaming and multitasking.
TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 | CODM’s Game Settings
The performance is smooth, and apps open quickly without noticeable delays. We did notice that the phone tends to heat up a bit during extended gaming sessions, but it’s nothing that significantly affects the overall experience.
TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 Review: Camera
The camera setup on the TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 features a dual-lens system, including a 50MP primary camera and a 50MP ultrawide lens. Over the course of a month, we found the camera to be surprisingly competent for a phone in this range. The primary camera performs well in good lighting conditions, capturing detailed and vibrant shots with accurate colors. The dynamic range is decent, and photos are sharp, even in moderately low-light situations.
The ultrawide lens is a nice addition, providing a broader field of view for landscapes or group shots. While it doesn’t match up to flagship camera setups, it’s a solid performer for everyday photography. Meanwhile, in low light, we did notice some noise, but overall, the results were satisfactory.
The front-facing camera also delivers good-quality selfies, with decent detail and natural skin tones, making it a great option for video calls or social media posts.
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TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 Review: Battery Life
The TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 is equipped with a 4,720mAh battery, which holds up well even after a month of heavy use. For typical tasks like social media, streaming, and browsing, the phone lasts a full day. However, during periods of intensive use, such as gaming and multitasking—it consistently lasts less than 15 hours. We also attempted to run the PCMark Work 3.0 battery test, but the app kept closing near critical battery levels.
Meanwhile, the device supports 70W of wired fast charging, which is a major plus. In our experience, we were able to charge the phone from 0% to 50% in less than 20 minutes, which is pretty impressive for a foldable phone at this price point.
While the battery capacity might not be as large as some flagship devices, the TECNO Phantom V Flip 2’s efficient performance and fast-charging capabilities ensure that you’re not left hanging when you need power.
TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 Review: Verdict
After a month with the TECNO Phantom V Flip 2, we can confidently say it’s an excellent entry point for users wanting to experience foldable technology. It offers a great combination of style, performance, and functionality without the high price tag associated with flagship foldable devices.
If you’re in the market for a foldable phone but don’t want to spend flagship-level prices, the TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 is an excellent option. It delivers great value without compromising on the essential features that matter most.
You can score the TECNO Phantom V Flip 2 for as low as Php34,999.
So, are you getting one? Let us know what you think in the comments section!
After a barrage of leaks about the Nintendo Switch 2, the most anticipated console of the company has finally been unveiled.
The first-look trailer only showed most of the hardware part of the console including a bigger console itself. There will be a bigger display with thinner bezels and a bigger joy-cons with colors on the analogs as well with an additional button just below the home button. Aside from that, it will also have a new mechanism to attach the joy-cons and there will be no more infrared on one of the joy-cons.
On the Switch 2 itself, it will now have an additional USB-C port at the top along with the 3.5mm audio combo jack beside it. There will also be a U-shaped stand at the back so you can play the console anywhere. Nintendo also showed off the dock along with the logo of the Switch 2 in there with a rounder edges. It will also have a new Joy-Con grip as well.
Nintendo has also revealed that the Nintendo Switch 2 will also support your previous Switch Games whether that’s digital or physical as it will still use the same Game Card slot.
Nintendo didn’t announced any new games for the console but we can expect the games that will be coming out in their future reveal which is probably on their next Nintendo Direct at April 2, 2025.
Xiaomi today announced the launch of the Redmi Note 14 Series in the Philippines, bringing flagship-level features to a wider audience. This exciting lineup comprises the Redmi Note 14, Redmi Note 14 5G, Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G, and the flagship Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G, each offering exceptional performance and innovative features at competitive prices.
Redmi Note 14 & Redmi Note 14 5G
The Redmi Note 14 and Redmi Note 14 5G cater to a wide range of users with powerful performance and essential features. The Redmi Note 14 5G boasts a 108MP AI camera system, capturing vibrant and detailed images, while the Redmi Note 14 features a high-resolution camera system for excellent photo and video capture. Both devices offer smooth performance with powerful processors and ample RAM.
Additionally, both devices feature long-lasting batteries with fast charging capabilities to keep users connected throughout the day. Meanwhile, as the name suggests, the Redmi Note 14 5G provides 5G connectivity for a seamless and fast mobile experience.
Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G
The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G takes performance to the next level with the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra processor. It features a 108MP AI camera system with advanced features like Dynamic shots and AI Image Enhancement. The device boasts a 5110mAh battery with 45W turbo charging for long-lasting power. It also offers a 120Hz display for a smooth and immersive user experience. Additionally, the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G also features IP64 splash and dust resistance.
Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G
The flagship Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G pushes the boundaries with its cutting-edge features. Powered by the globally debuting, advanced 4nm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor, it delivers exceptional performance and responsiveness.
The device also boasts a 200MP pro-grade AI camera system with OIS, enabling users to capture stunning photos with incredible detail and zoom capabilities. It features a vibrant 1.5K display with a peak brightness of 3000 nits for an immersive viewing experience, too.
Meanwhile, with IP68 water and dust resistance, the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G is built to withstand the elements.
Moreover, its 5110mAh battery with 120W HyperCharge ensures rapid charging and long-lasting power.
Redmi Note 14 Series Pricing and Availability in the Philippines
