Would you be sad if LG no longer makes phones?

With piling losses, Korean company LG is set to exit the smartphone business. While many of the people aware of the financial state of the company’s smartphone business predicted this for a while, a recent report suggests the company will formally announce its departure from the smartphone industry on April 5th. As a pillar of smartphone innovation in the previous decades, would you miss LG if it no longer makes phones?

While the global pandemic was kind to no smartphone company, LG’s smartphone business has been suffering for much longer. The specific division has incurred recurring losses since 2015, even though the company has been doing well as a whole. While LG phones are still fairly common in its domestic South Korean market, the company had previously reported “sluggish sales in the overseas market with a sales decrease of mass-tier products in North America” regarding its smartphone business.

This lack of interest in LG’s products has prevailed despite its exciting and innovative products, such as the second-screen attachment for phones like the LG G8X or Velvet or the T-shaped Wing. In the past decade, LG has created some unique phones such as the slightly curved G Flex (or Flex 2) or the distinctive Optimus. Not to forget, the 2000s also witnessed some more interesting phones from LG, including the Chocolate series, surely as tempting as its eponym.

The news of LG shutting its smartphone business is disappointing for fans, and it also puts the future of its rollable display phone in the dark. The company had previously announced the phone with a rollable display will arrive next year.

The company had previously quashed rumors about exiting the smartphone business. Even more so, the company’s new CEO had promised to make its smartphone business profitable by 2021. However, repeated indications suggest LG may finally pull the plug to prevent excessive losses due to the awry smartphone arm.

The Korean company’s exit from the smartphone business will create a void for innovation, as in gems like the LG Wing. Do you agree? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Would you be sad if LG no longer makes phones? appeared first on xda-developers.

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Would you be sad if LG no longer makes phones?

With piling losses, Korean company LG is set to exit the smartphone business. While many of the people aware of the financial state of the company’s smartphone business predicted this for a while, a recent report suggests the company will formally announce its departure from the smartphone industry on April 5th. As a pillar of smartphone innovation in the previous decades, would you miss LG if it no longer makes phones?

While the global pandemic was kind to no smartphone company, LG’s smartphone business has been suffering for much longer. The specific division has incurred recurring losses since 2015, even though the company has been doing well as a whole. While LG phones are still fairly common in its domestic South Korean market, the company had previously reported “sluggish sales in the overseas market with a sales decrease of mass-tier products in North America” regarding its smartphone business.

This lack of interest in LG’s products has prevailed despite its exciting and innovative products, such as the second-screen attachment for phones like the LG G8X or Velvet or the T-shaped Wing. In the past decade, LG has created some unique phones such as the slightly curved G Flex (or Flex 2) or the distinctive Optimus. Not to forget, the 2000s also witnessed some more interesting phones from LG, including the Chocolate series, surely as tempting as its eponym.

The news of LG shutting its smartphone business is disappointing for fans, and it also puts the future of its rollable display phone in the dark. The company had previously announced the phone with a rollable display will arrive next year.

The company had previously quashed rumors about exiting the smartphone business. Even more so, the company’s new CEO had promised to make its smartphone business profitable by 2021. However, repeated indications suggest LG may finally pull the plug to prevent excessive losses due to the awry smartphone arm.

The Korean company’s exit from the smartphone business will create a void for innovation, as in gems like the LG Wing. Do you agree? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Would you be sad if LG no longer makes phones? appeared first on xda-developers.

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Xiaomi’s wallpapers for the Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold are here for download

Xiaomi revealed a slew of new products last month, including the long-awaited Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold. Of course, the best part of any new phone launch is waiting for someone to extract the included wallpapers. Thankfully, all the wallpapers for both phones are now available to download, courtesy of XDA Member kacskrz.

Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra Wallpapers

The Mi 11 Ultra comes with six groups of static wallpapers, each with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 (20:9 ratio) — more than large enough to look great on any smartphone. They are divided into Natural Texture (7), Geometry (4), Dynamic Nebula (3), Minimalist Scenery (7), Black and White (4), and Mars (4). There’s also the default wallpaper, bringing the total to 30 images. All of them are available in their original, uncompressed versions at the link below.

Download Mi 11 Ultra wallpapers

Xiaomi Mi MIX Fold Wallpapers

The backgrounds on the Mi MIX Fold are also divided into distinct categories, including PC Mode (5 static images), Natural Texture (7 static images), Musubi (4 static images), Dynamic Nebula (3 live wallpapers), Minimalist Scenery (7 static images), and Mars (7 static images). Some have a resolution of 2480×1860 (3:4 ratio), while others are 2520×2520 (1:1). You can get the full-resolution versions from the link below.

Download Mi MIX Fold wallpapers

I’m definitely a fan of nature backgrounds, and the ones included with the Mi Mix Fold and Mi 11 Ultra look fantastic. The Mars ones are also a nice inclusion, especially after the recent landing of NASA’s Perseverance rover on the red planet.

The post Xiaomi’s wallpapers for the Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold are here for download appeared first on xda-developers.

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Xiaomi’s wallpapers for the Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold are here for download

Xiaomi revealed a slew of new products last month, including the long-awaited Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold. Of course, the best part of any new phone launch is waiting for someone to extract the included wallpapers. Thankfully, all the wallpapers for both phones are now available to download, courtesy of XDA Member kacskrz.

Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra Wallpapers

The Mi 11 Ultra comes with six groups of static wallpapers, each with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 (20:9 ratio) — more than large enough to look great on any smartphone. They are divided into Natural Texture (7), Geometry (4), Dynamic Nebula (3), Minimalist Scenery (7), Black and White (4), and Mars (4). There’s also the default wallpaper, bringing the total to 30 images. All of them are available in their original, uncompressed versions at the link below.

Download Mi 11 Ultra wallpapers

Xiaomi Mi MIX Fold Wallpapers

The backgrounds on the Mi MIX Fold are also divided into distinct categories, including PC Mode (5 static images), Natural Texture (7 static images), Musubi (4 static images), Dynamic Nebula (3 live wallpapers), Minimalist Scenery (7 static images), and Mars (7 static images). Some have a resolution of 2480×1860 (3:4 ratio), while others are 2520×2520 (1:1). You can get the full-resolution versions from the link below.

Download Mi MIX Fold wallpapers

I’m definitely a fan of nature backgrounds, and the ones included with the Mi Mix Fold and Mi 11 Ultra look fantastic. The Mars ones are also a nice inclusion, especially after the recent landing of NASA’s Perseverance rover on the red planet.

The post Xiaomi’s wallpapers for the Mi 11 Ultra and Mi MIX Fold are here for download appeared first on xda-developers.

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Are you looking forward to Google’s custom chip for the Pixel 6?

Google’s Pixel 6 — and other future Pixel devices — will reportedly come equipped with the GS101 silicon, the company’s custom system on a chip (SoC). If true, it could shake up the status quo and further threaten Qualcomm’s dominance in the mobile market. We think it’s an exciting prospect, but we wanted to know: Are you looking forward to Google’s custom chip for the Pixel 6?

Using a custom SoC is likely cheaper than buying a chip from Qualcomm or Samsung, which could result in lower prices for 2021 Pixels. Having more tightly integrated software and hardware could elevate the speed, performance, and battery life of Google’s Pixel devices. Most importantly, it could also mean longer software support as Google — and not another silicon vendor — would have control over updating drivers. Apple’s lineup of iPhones, iPads, and Macs is a prime example of what can be achieved with more tightly integrated software and hardware.

Introducing a custom SoC could also allow Google to integrate its Titan M security chip and Visual Core, the latter of which allows for more advanced camera capabilities. Google’s Pixel lineup has always leaned on its camera prowess, and the potential for an even more powerful experience would surely bring attention away from Google’s more popular competitors.

The launch of GS101 could be the first step toward a future where all of Google’s Pixel smartphones are powered by a custom chip. Eventually, Google’s custom chips could power its own Chromebooks, too. As we mentioned, Apple has already been creating custom chips for its iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Soon, the Cupertino company’s entire Mac lineup will ditch Intel for its M-series chips.

At this point, the mounting evidence suggests it’ll be a matter of when, not if, Google introduces its own custom SoC. When that happens, what are you hoping to see? For those who have never owned a Pixel device, would a Pixel 6 equipped with the GS101 chip make you consider Google’s next smartphone? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Are you looking forward to Google’s custom chip for the Pixel 6? appeared first on xda-developers.

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Are you looking forward to Google’s custom chip for the Pixel 6?

Google’s Pixel 6 — and other future Pixel devices — will reportedly come equipped with the GS101 silicon, the company’s custom system on a chip (SoC). If true, it could shake up the status quo and further threaten Qualcomm’s dominance in the mobile market. We think it’s an exciting prospect, but we wanted to know: Are you looking forward to Google’s custom chip for the Pixel 6?

Using a custom SoC is likely cheaper than buying a chip from Qualcomm or Samsung, which could result in lower prices for 2021 Pixels. Having more tightly integrated software and hardware could elevate the speed, performance, and battery life of Google’s Pixel devices. Most importantly, it could also mean longer software support as Google — and not another silicon vendor — would have control over updating drivers. Apple’s lineup of iPhones, iPads, and Macs is a prime example of what can be achieved with more tightly integrated software and hardware.

Introducing a custom SoC could also allow Google to integrate its Titan M security chip and Visual Core, the latter of which allows for more advanced camera capabilities. Google’s Pixel lineup has always leaned on its camera prowess, and the potential for an even more powerful experience would surely bring attention away from Google’s more popular competitors.

The launch of GS101 could be the first step toward a future where all of Google’s Pixel smartphones are powered by a custom chip. Eventually, Google’s custom chips could power its own Chromebooks, too. As we mentioned, Apple has already been creating custom chips for its iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Soon, the Cupertino company’s entire Mac lineup will ditch Intel for its M-series chips.

At this point, the mounting evidence suggests it’ll be a matter of when, not if, Google introduces its own custom SoC. When that happens, what are you hoping to see? For those who have never owned a Pixel device, would a Pixel 6 equipped with the GS101 chip make you consider Google’s next smartphone? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Are you looking forward to Google’s custom chip for the Pixel 6? appeared first on xda-developers.

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Best Cheap Cases for the Galaxy S21 Ultra: Olixar, Spigen, and more!

The Galaxy S21 Ultra is Samsung’s latest flagship Android smartphone, offering a gigantic 6.8-inch display, a 120Hz refresh rate, a large 5000mAh battery, a powerful Snapdragon 888 processor, a 108-megapixel primary camera, a premium glass and aluminum design, and lots more.

For anyone who wants the best Android smartphone currently on the market, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is hard to beat as it offers so many amazing features. But considering that the handset is made mostly from glass, it’s fragile and could easily get damaged when left out of a protective case.

If you’ve just bought a Galaxy S21 Ultra or are thinking of getting one, you’ll definitely want to put it in a case. This will protect it against scratches, bumps, and other types of damage. And because cases come in all colors, patterns, and shapes, they’ll enable you to personalize your brand new Galaxy S21 Ultra. To help you choose one, we’ve rounded up the best cheap cases for the Galaxy S21 Ultra.

Wouier Hybrid Armor Case

Maximum protection

Designed to provide maximum protection, the Hybrid Armor sports a silicone inner layer that’ll protect your Galaxy S21 Ultra from shocks and drops. There’s also an outer layer of polycarbonate, a kickstand, and precise cutouts for all ports and buttons. You can buy it in black, red, blue and other colors.

Buy at Amazon

DagoRoo Armor Case

Shockproof protection

Made from TPU silicone and polycarbonate, the DagoRoo Armor is highly durable and offers robust protection for the Galaxy S21 Ultra. It sports a four-corner anti-drop bumper, a ring buckle for a secure grip, raised edges to protect the screen and camera, and a magnetic patch.

Buy at Amazon

Kowauri Wallet Case

Save space in your bag or pocket

This wallet case from Kowauri, made out of high-quality PU leather, offers three card slots, a cash pocket, kickstand functionality, precise cutouts for all buttons and ports, a magnetic closure, and wireless charger support. You can get it in black, khaki, red, and more colors.

Buy at Amazon

Olixar Ultra-Thin Case

Keep things simple

If you don’t want to cover up the Galaxy S21 Ultra’s stunning design with a bulky case, you should check out Olixar’s Ultra-Thin case. It’s a transparent, gel-based case that will show off your Galaxy S21’s original color and offer an extra layer of protection. There’s a raised bezel to protect the display and precise cutouts, too.

Buy at Amazon

Spigen Ultra Hybrid S Case

A streaming-friendly case

Spigen is well-known for making high-quality cases, and the Ultra-Hybrid S is no exception. It’s a transparent case made of a strong TPU material and a polycarbonate panel. Another great thing about this case is that it provides a built-in kickstand, which is perfect for video conferencing and streaming.

Buy at Amazon

Zizo Revolve Series Thin Ring Case

Never drop your S21 Ultra

The Zizo Revolve sports a compact, lightweight design that offers protection from scratches, bumps, and everything else life throws at your Galaxy S21 Ultra. What’s more, it features a ring that provides a secure grip and works as a kickstand. You can buy it in rose or black.

Buy at Amazon

Hekodonk Bling Clear Case

Sleek and stylish

This clear silicon case is the right blend of being affordable, providing protection, and adding a small bit of style to your Galaxy S21 Ultra with its sparkling appearance. It also has reinforced corners and cutouts for all ports and the camera.

Buy at Amazon

Olixar Soft Silicone Case

A soft and light touch

Slim and lightweight in design, Olixar’s Soft Silicone Case provides ample protection for the Galaxy S21 Ultra. It sports a non-slip coating, a raised bezel to protect the screen, and precise cutouts. You can get it in black, blue, pink, and green.

Buy at Amazon

Olixar NovaShield Bumper Case

A robust bumper

Olixar also offers a great bumper case for the Galaxy S21 Ultra, and it's called NovaShield. The case features a dual-layered shock-proof design, a robust bumper, precise cutouts for all ports, easy-to-use buttons, and wireless charging support.

Buy at Amazon

Should you be willing to splash out $1,199 on the Galaxy S21 Ultra, you’ll no doubt want to protect your hefty investment. But there are luckily loads of cases available for the Galaxy S21 Ultra, and many of them won’t break the bank.

So which should you choose? Most people will be happy with a simple option like the Olixar Ultra-Thin or the Olixar Soft Silicone. However, for maximum protection, we’d recommend the Wouier Hybrid Armor. Meanwhile, the Kowauri Wallet Case will be great if you want to save room in your bag or pocket.

Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is the ultimate overkill in the new 2021 flagship series, packing in a flagship SoC, a premium build, a great display, and an amazing camera setup, as well as all the extras expected on a premium flagship.

Buy from Samsung

If you’re looking for even more options, and budget is not a constraint, then we have even more options listed on our Best Galaxy S21 Ultra cases roundup. That roundup takes some more liberty with the pricing and includes some official options from Samsung as well.

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