Mark Shephard – GOTgoodoldtech

Samsung Galaxy S26 Series: What’s Really Changing—and What Isn’t

Samsung’s S26 series has been leaking like crazy, but instead of giving us clarity, the rumors have created one of the strangest, most confusing upgrade cycles Samsung has ever attempted. New chipsets that aren’t really new. Camera changes that don’t change much. A mysterious fourth phone that seems to exist “just because.” And a processor naming scheme that might make your brain hurt.

Grab your coffee—this one’s a ride.

The Chipset Circus: Snapdragon Elite 5… or Exynos 2600?

Let’s start with the biggest question Samsung fans always have:

“Are we getting Snapdragon or Exynos this time?”

Well—yes.
And no.
And maybe?

Early tests suggest Samsung wants to put its new Exynos 2600 in most S26 and S26+ units. Some benchmarks show it beating Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite. Others show the opposite. So Samsung seems torn.

Here’s where it gets messy:
In most markets, Samsung may use Exynos in the S26 and S26+, but Snapdragon Elite 5 in the S26 Ultra.

Why?
Simple. Marketing separation.
The Plus model has gotten too close to the Ultra in the last two generations. Samsung needs space to justify the Ultra’s higher price.

But here’s the twist—
Leaks say in the United States and a few other regions, ALL models may get Snapdragon Elite 5. Honestly, it’s what Samsung should do globally, but we’ll see if they pull the trigger.

Either way, the naming is funny.
This chip should technically be Elite 2, but Qualcomm decided “Gen 5 Elite” sounded fancier. Silicon branding never disappoints.

The Design: Familiar Faces with One Big Mystery

If you’ve seen the S25 series… you’ve basically seen the S26 series.

Except for one phone.

A strange-looking device has leaked with a full-width camera bar across the top—similar to Pixel’s visor or the iPhone 15 Pro’s clean slab look.

So what is it?

Is it the returning S26 Edge model?
Or did Samsung remove a camera from the base S26 to cut costs?
Or is it just a test unit we weren’t supposed to see?

At this stage, rumors point strongly to the S26 Edge returning, complete with:

A bigger 4300 mAh battery
A new premium back design
The unmistakable camera bar spanning the width of the phone

It’s an odd move considering the S25 Edge didn’t exactly sell well. But Samsung seems determined to try again—maybe hoping the design gives it a new identity.

Cameras: Upgrades… Kind Of

If you were hoping Samsung would finally trickle down that beautiful 200-megapixel Ultra camera to the regular S series—well, sit down.

It’s not happening.

The S26 and S26+ are getting:

50MP main camera
50MP ultrawide
New 12MP 3× telephoto

This year the 12MP ultra wide is getting a big upgrade and that new 3× lens is definitely a nice upgrade over the cheap 10MP one they’ve used for four years, but it still leaves Samsung trailing behind Apple and Pixel, both of which have 48–50MP 5× zoom lenses.

Meanwhile, the S26 Ultra keeps its throne with:

200MP main
50MP ultrawide
50MP 5× zoom
Possible new 12MP 3× zoom

So yes, the Ultra is still king. The smaller S26 models… remain stuck in “good enough” territory.

Battery & Charging: Small Gains, Same Mistakes

There is good news:
Every S26 model is rumored to get 200–300 mAh more battery.
Always welcome.

And charging?
Well…

Standard S26 models: probably still 25W
Ultra: still 45W
Wireless charging: maybe increasing from 15W → 20W

But the rumor that caught everyone’s attention?

Samsung might finally add MagSafe-compatible coils to the S26 lineup. If that happens, we enter a glorious new world where accessories actually work the same across devices.

We can dream.

The “Why” Behind All of This

Here’s the point—and what your video script was highlighting perfectly:

The S26 series is shaping up to be the definition of an incremental upgrade.
Battery up a bit.
Cameras improved slightly.
Chipset split again.
Design mostly unchanged.

If you skipped the S25?
The S26 might feel like a refinement you can justify.

If you have an S25?
You might struggle to find a reason to upgrade unless you’re going for the Ultra.

And the Edge model?
That’s the wildcard. It might be Samsung’s attempt to shake up the mid-tier lineup, or it may be another experiment that fizzles.

Final Thoughts: Should You Be Excited?

If you love Samsung devices, the S26 series still brings improvements—just not the “wow factor” we’ve seen in previous generations. To many users, it’ll feel like Samsung is saving the real innovations for the Z Fold 8 and their upcoming AI push.

Still, the S26 series gives you:

Better zoom on standard models
A new premium Edge design
Larger batteries
Possibly uniform Snapdragon chips in the U.S.
And a more polished Ultra

Now it’s your turn—are you excited for the S26?
Did you skip the S25 waiting for this moment?
Or are you holding out for something bigger?

Drop a comment and let me know what you think!

And if you want to compare Samsung’s last big release, check out my S25 Ultra vs Z Fold 7 comparison—linked right on the blog.

iPad Pro M5 vs. Today’s Top Foldables: The Mobile Editing Showdown

In the world of mobile editing, there’s always the ongoing debate about which device delivers the best performance—especially when it comes to multitasking and processing power. I’ve always loved using foldables for editing because of their larger screens and flexibility, but recently, I decided to add another contender to the ring: the iPad Pro M5. With its M5 chip promising to take mobile processing to the next level, I was eager to see how it would stack up against today’s top foldables, like the Honor Magic V5 and the Vivo X Fold 5. Could the iPad’s large, stunning display compete with the foldables’ multitasking capabilities? Let’s dive into the results!

The iPad Pro M5 vs. Foldables: Design and Multitasking

When it comes to design, the iPad Pro M5 has a clear advantage with its large, beautiful screen, which is perfect for multitasking and editing. But how do the foldables compare? The Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5 both feature impressive foldable displays, which offer a larger surface for multitasking in tablet mode, giving them an edge in this area. But the iPad is known for its smooth workflow, and I wanted to see just how it compared when both the Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5 are unfolded.

Starting with multitasking, both foldables shine here. On the Honor Magic V5, multitasking is a breeze, allowing you to run multiple apps side by side with ease. Similarly, the Vivo X Fold 5 also offers smooth multitasking and supports up to four apps running at once when using Work Bench. The iPad Pro M5, however, requires a bit more effort. While you can run apps side by side, similar to that of Work Bench it isn’t as intuitive. It requires a long press and drag to place apps into split-screen mode, which, compared to the foldables, feels clunkier.

Performance: iPad Pro M5 vs. Foldables

Next, let’s talk about performance. The iPad Pro M5 is powered by Apple’s M5 chip, which is one of the fastest mobile processors around. So, I wanted to see how well it held up against the Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5. To test this, I used a video editing app called InShot to process a 4K video and see how quickly each device could export it.

Surprisingly, the iPad Pro M5 didn’t blow the foldables out of the water as I had expected. Despite being equipped with Apple’s fastest chip, the iPad Pro was slower to process the video than both the Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5, with the Vivo X Fold 5 finishing first. In fact, the iPad lagged behind, even with its superior chip. The Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5 both delivered excellent results, showing that they can handle demanding tasks just as well as, if not better than, the iPad.

Camera Performance: Apple vs. Android

When it comes to cameras, the iPad Pro M5 is undeniably impressive, but it’s not quite a match for the Honor Magic V5 or Vivo X Fold 5 when it comes to versatility. The iPad Pro M5 has good cameras for a tablet, but they aren’t designed for the same level of detail and precision as the Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5. In my test shots, I found that the Vivo X Fold 5 performed better, offering clear and detailed images, especially in low-light conditions. The Honor Magic V5 came close, but the iPad Pro M5 still held its own with its crisp shots and improved image stabilization.

Customization and Flexibility

One of the key strengths of foldables like the Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5 is their customization and flexibility. For example, the Honor Magic V5 allows you to stack widgets and customize the home screen extensively. The Vivo X Fold 5 offers a “workbench” feature that allows you to run four apps simultaneously, which is incredibly useful for those who need to juggle multiple tasks. The iPad Pro M5, on the other hand, offers limited customization options compared to these foldables, and apps are not as flexible in terms of layout.

Final Thoughts: Is the iPad Pro M5 Really Necessary?

After all of these tests, my conclusion is clear: while the iPad Pro M5 offers a beautiful, large screen and superb performance for certain tasks, it’s not necessarily the go-to device for mobile editing anymore. The Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5 both provide incredible multitasking abilities and a smooth workflow for editing, which makes them great alternatives to the iPad for productivity on the go. That said, the iPad Pro would be preferred for is size and app compatibility for full form editing programs like DaVinci Resolve.

So, while the iPad Pro M5 is still a powerhouse in its own right, foldables might just be the future of mobile productivity. What do you think? Will foldables take the lead, or does the iPad Pro M5 still reign supreme? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Honor Magic V5 vs Pixel 10 Pro Fold: A Daily Driver Face-Off

When it comes to foldables, two devices are standing out as my favorite daily carriers: the Honor Magic V5 and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. They both offer impressive features, but what sets them apart? Let’s dive into the details of these devices and explore why they’re my go-to phones.

First, let’s talk about the look and feel of these foldables. When placed side by side, you’ll notice that the Honor Magic V5 is significantly thinner than the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. The thinner profile of the Honor makes it feel lighter and more comfortable to hold throughout the day. On the other hand, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold has a heftier feel, but it’s still manageable. Both devices have large camera bumps, with the Honor Magic V5 sporting a notably bigger bump, which contributes to its bulkier feel.

In terms of screen size, both phones are pretty much identical with an 8-inch internal display. However, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold has a slightly wider design, giving it a bit more space to work with. But when it comes to actual usability, they feel quite similar in your hand. The experience is smooth on both devices, and they handle apps with ease. I love using the Google Keyboard on both phones, especially for accurate text-to-speech and typing.

Performance-wise, AI integration on both devices is top-notch. Both phones handle AI-powered tasks like rephrasing text and proofreading with ease. You’ll notice that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is just a hair faster at processing these tasks, but overall, they perform identically. This makes both devices very efficient for my daily needs, whether I’m responding to comments or typing out emails.

Moving to the internal screens, the Pixel’s 8-inch display feels more secure when placed flat, whereas the Honor Magic V5 is a bit wobbly. However, the Honor wins points for its customizability. The Magic V5 offers more flexibility with app sizes and widgets, allowing for a more tailored user experience. This is where the Honor Magic V5 pulls ahead, giving me greater control over my interface compared to the more rigid Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

Camera performance is where the two really start to differ. Both devices have impressive sensors, but the Honor Magic V5 tends to add more saturation to images, whereas the Pixel 10 Pro Fold leans toward a more natural, subdued look. The Pixel’s camera tends to perform better in terms of clarity, especially in low-light conditions. However, if you prefer brighter, more vibrant photos, the Honor Magic V5 might be the way to go.

As for the user interface, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold has a cleaner, simpler approach, but the lack of customization can feel limiting. In contrast, the Honor Magic V5’s more flexible UI lets you stack widgets and move apps around with ease, providing a more dynamic experience. It’s little touches like this that make the Honor Magic V5 more enjoyable for long-term use.

When it comes to battery life, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold comes with a 4600mAh battery, while the Honor Magic V5 has a slightly larger 5000mAh battery. Both foldables perform well for a full day of use, but the Honor Magic V5 gives me a bit more peace of mind when it comes to lasting through the day without needing to top-up. Both phones support fast charging, with the Pixel offering a 30W wired charging speed, and the Honor Magic V5 supporting 40W wired charging.

Finally, let’s talk about security. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold has face ID recognition, which is super convenient for unlocking your phone, especially when accessing sensitive apps like banking or passwords. In comparison, the Honor Magic V5 relies on a fingerprint scanner, which is just as secure but doesn’t offer the convenience of facial recognition.

Service and support are another consideration. Since the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is readily available in the U.S., it comes with excellent warranty support and customer service from Google. Unfortunately, the Honor Magic V5 isn’t as widely available outside of China, meaning support might be harder to come by, especially if you run into issues with your device.

At the end of the day, both the Honor Magic V5 and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold are excellent choices for daily use. They each have their strengths: the Honor offers a more customizable experience and better battery life, while the Pixel excels in camera clarity, ease of use, and security features. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. For me, both devices fit perfectly into my daily routine, and I carry both with me everywhere I go.

Which foldable do you prefer? Are you team Pixel 10 Pro Fold, or do you lean towards the flexibility of the Honor Magic V5? Let me know in the comments!

The Oppo Find N6: The Next Big Step for Foldables?

In the fast-paced world of foldable phones, 2026 is already shaping up to be an exciting year, with Oppo leading the charge with its upcoming Oppo Find N6. But with the OnePlus Open potentially following suit, is the market ready for another foldable phone launch? Let’s dive into what we can expect from Oppo’s new foldable, how it stacks up to its predecessors, and what it means for the competition.

Oppo Find N6: What’s New?

For those who may not be familiar, the Oppo Find N5 was one of the standout foldables from the previous year. It was one of the largest in the market, boasting an impressive 8.12-inch internal screen and a 6.6-inch external display. While it wasn’t the most compact foldable out there, it brought some much-needed innovation to the category with its slim design and decent battery life. However, it did have its shortcomings — particularly in the camera department, where the Oppo Find N5’s 50 MP main sensor and 8 MP ultrawide camera were a bit underwhelming compared to other foldables in the market.

But the Oppo Find N6 is shaping up to remedy those shortcomings. It’s rumored to come with a Snapdragon Elite 5 chipset, an upgrade from the previous model’s Snapdragon 7-series, and significantly better camera specs, including a 50 MP periscope zoom lens, alongside a multi-spectral sensor for better light capture in low-light conditions. Oppo seems to be listening to consumer feedback and coming back strong with a device that could finally compete with the likes of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Honor Magic V5.

What About the OnePlus Open?

It’s also worth mentioning that the OnePlus Open, Oppo’s sister company, may be entering the foldable scene soon as well. The OnePlus Open skipped a release in 2025, leaving many wondering whether they’d be returning to the foldable market in 2026. OnePlus may not be as well-known in the foldable space as Samsung, but they do have a reputation for making solid phones at a competitive price point.

The question is: will OnePlus release the Open 2, Open 3, or something entirely new to rival Oppo’s new flagship? Speculation suggests that OnePlus may release a global version of the Oppo Find N6, which could be a game-changer for foldable competition, particularly in markets like the U.S. where Oppo’s foldables haven’t yet gained a foothold. A global version of the Find N6 would be the perfect opportunity for OnePlus to capture a broader audience and take on Samsung in the foldable space.

Oppo Find N6: A Premium Experience?

When comparing the Oppo Find N6 to the previous model, the improvements are noticeable. The new N6 is rumored to have a 6000 mAh battery, which is on par with some of the best foldables out there, including the Vivo X Fold 5. For those looking for longevity, Oppo has upped its game with a battery capable of handling long days of use without a hitch.

On top of that, Oppo is expected to include fast charging capabilities with 80W wired charging and 40W wireless charging. Compare that to the Pixel Fold’s slow charging speed, and you can see why the Oppo Find N6 could be an appealing choice for anyone tired of waiting for their phone to charge.

The Camera Upgrade

One of the biggest selling points of the Oppo Find N6 is its improved camera system. The previous model fell short of expectations with an underwhelming ultrawide camera and average selfie performance. However, Oppo is stepping it up this year with a rumored 50 MP main sensor and a 50 MP periscope zoom camera — a big jump from the N5’s lackluster camera setup.

Oppo isn’t just focusing on the hardware either. They’re introducing a multi-spectral sensor, which will allow the camera to capture more light and detail in challenging lighting conditions. This could make the Oppo Find N6 a serious contender for photography enthusiasts who demand high-quality camera performance from their foldables.

Will It Compete With Samsung?

The Oppo Find N6 will face stiff competition from Samsung’s foldables, especially the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which is already known for its polished hardware and cutting-edge features. However, with Oppo’s commitment to upgrading its camera system and battery life, it may be able to steal some market share from Samsung, especially with the Find N6’s rumored slim design and improved specs.

Samsung has been the undisputed leader in the foldable market for years, but Oppo’s Find N series is a legitimate contender. The fact that Oppo is also focusing on the same high-end specs as the Z Fold series, such as large displays, fast charging, and premium build quality, means that foldable users now have more choice than ever before.

OnePlus: Is It Coming Back to Foldables?

So, what does all this mean for OnePlus? While it’s not clear yet what the company will do next with its foldable lineup, it’s safe to say that OnePlus has the potential to be a strong player in the foldable space. If the rumors are true, and OnePlus does release a new foldable in 2026, we can expect it to come with similar specs as the Oppo Find N6, but at a potentially lower price point.

OnePlus may even surprise us with a global version of the Oppo Find N6, giving consumers more choices in the foldable market. If they manage to release a device that rivals the Oppo Find N6 — especially in markets outside of China — it could mark the beginning of a new era for OnePlus in the foldable space.

Conclusion

The Oppo Find N6 is shaping up to be an impressive device, with a large display, improved camera system, and better battery life than its predecessor. But the real question remains: Is the world ready for another foldable phone? With the current market still dominated by traditional bar phones, will people be willing to embrace another foldable device, especially one with a second hinge?

It’ll be interesting to see how Oppo’s Find N6 fares against Samsung and other foldables in 2026, and whether OnePlus will throw its hat into the ring with its own foldable offering. One thing’s for sure: foldable phones are evolving, and the Oppo Find N6 is pushing the envelope even further.

So, what do you think? Are you excited for the Oppo Find N6, or will you be waiting for OnePlus’ next move? Let me know in the comments below!

Are Trifolds the Future — or Just Another Price Hike?

Dual folds finally got good. So why are manufacturers suddenly obsessed with trifolds? Are they truly the next big leap in mobile innovation—or just another hinge we didn’t ask for? Stick around, because by the end of this read, you might be asking the same question I am: Do we really need a tablet in our pocket twice over?

Foldables Have Come a Long Way

Remember when foldables first appeared? They were clunky, fragile, and felt more like prototypes than phones. Devices like the Microsoft Surface Duo looked promising but didn’t stick around long enough to build trust. Fast-forward five years, and we’ve gone from those early experiments to polished masterpieces like the Samsung Z Fold, Honor Magic V5, Vivo X Fold 5, and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

Today’s foldables aren’t fragile novelties—they’re powerhouses. They run faster, last longer, and in many ways outperform their bar-phone cousins. Even Apple is finally jumping in, and when Apple enters a category, that’s a clear sign it’s here to stay.

But here’s the reality check: foldables still only hold about 2% of the smartphone market, while 98% of users stick to traditional bar phones. We just convinced people to trust one hinge—and now the industry wants us to trust two?

From Folds to Trifolds: Are We Ready?

Think about it. It took half a decade to evolve from this—[Surface Duo]—to this—the ultra-thin Honor Magic V5. We finally reached a point where foldables are sleek, durable, and even IP68 water-resistant. That kind of progress built real consumer confidence.

So, why start the trust process over again with a second hinge?

Manufacturers claim the trifold will give you “a tablet in your pocket.” But haven’t we heard that before? Back in the day, the Galaxy Note was literally called a “phablet”—a phone and tablet in one. It had a huge 6.3-inch screen and a stylus, and people said it was too big. Fast-forward, and we’re all carrying 6.7-inch phones. Funny how that worked out.

Now they’re trying to sell us a new version of that same dream—a 10-inch “tablet phone” that folds in three.

Do We Really Need a Tablet That Folds Twice?

Here’s my honest take: we already have a tablet in our pocket.

Ever since foldables like the Z Fold and Magic V5 arrived, my tablet—an old Galaxy Tab S7—has been collecting dust. I only use it occasionally as a side display. Foldables replaced tablets for many of us because they’re compact, powerful, and plenty big when opened.

So what niche are trifolds trying to fill? A 10-inch foldable tablet sounds nice, but picture yourself holding it mid-flight or on a train. It’s not exactly a one-hand device anymore. Sure, it might be slightly lighter than a real tablet—but after 10 minutes, you’ll want to set it down. And if you’re going to set it on a table to use it, why not just buy an actual tablet?

Even battery life doesn’t justify it. Early rumors suggest Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy G-Fold (Trifold) will pack around 5500 mAh, barely more than most dual folds today. My Magic V5, for example, already hits 5820 mAh, and it’ll likely outlast that trifold despite having fewer moving parts.

Bigger Screens, Bigger Problems

Now, let’s talk practicality. The promise of “more multitasking” on a 10-inch screen sounds great—until you realize how awkward it is to type on something that wide. A larger screen doesn’t automatically mean a better experience, especially if it becomes harder to hold, type, or use without a flat surface.

And the design? Let’s just say early trifold prototypes don’t look reassuring. Misaligned edges, visible gaps, and questionable durability—things we thought we’d left behind with first-gen foldables—are creeping back in.

Add to that the price problem. When the Z Fold 7 already costs around $2,000, what’s a trifold going to run? $3,000? $3,500? For that price, you could buy a flagship phone and a top-tier tablet—and still have money left for a smartwatch.

Innovation or Inflation?

Here’s what I suspect: the trifold isn’t about giving us more—it’s about charging us more. As Apple gears up to launch its first foldable, other brands want to look like they’re one step ahead. “Apple’s doing dual folds? Fine, we’ll do trifolds!”

It’s marketing chess, not consumer demand. No one’s been asking for this. We’ve just started trusting one hinge—don’t rush us into two.

Final Thoughts

I’m not anti-trifold. I’m just asking: who actually needs it?

We’ve reached a beautiful balance with current dual folds—devices that deliver tablet-like functionality in your pocket. They’re fast, durable, and refined. Trifolds, on the other hand, feel like a solution in search of a problem.

Maybe they’ll surprise us. Maybe in a few years they’ll be thinner, cheaper, and make sense. But right now? It feels like another “next big thing” that’s more about headlines than user needs.

So, are trifolds truly progress—or just another price hike wrapped in a new hinge?
You tell me.

Pixel 9/10 Pro Fold vs Honor Magic V5: Has Google Finally Caught Up?

When the Pixel 9/10 Pro Fold finally hit the market, I couldn’t wait to see how it stacked up against my daily driver — the Honor Magic V5. I’d been using the V5 for months, loving its mix of power, polish, and almost sci-fi multitasking. The question was simple: could Google’s latest foldable compete?

Well, after spending a lot of time flipping between the two, I’ve got some thoughts — and maybe a few surprises.

Design & Feel: Two Very Different Takes on Premium

Let’s start with what you feel first — the build. Both phones feel solid and high-end, but the Honor Magic V5 just has that extra touch of refinement. It’s got a more elegant color finish and thinner bezels that make it look futuristic next to the Pixel. Even the hinge feels smoother and more balanced.

Now, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold does have one advantage — it’s a bit wider, making it easier to type on when closed. The Honor, on the other hand, is slightly taller. Its 6.4-inch external display feels just right in the hand, while the Pixel’s 6.3-inch outer screen feels comfortable but more conservative.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold (which I skipped this year) trims down the bezels slightly, but honestly — Honor’s been doing that level of design for years. Even compared to the OnePlus Open, the Magic V5’s bezels are thinner, cleaner, and more immersive. And when it comes to that dreaded crease in the middle? The Pixel’s is still clearly visible, while the Honor’s is barely noticeable.

Weight, Hinge, and Handling

The Honor Magic V5 is not only thinner — it’s lighter too. You feel that difference immediately when holding it for long periods. Both phones have side-mounted fingerprint sensors that are lightning fast, and both sound fantastic with true stereo speakers on either side. But the Pixel’s slightly thicker body gives it a deeper, bassier sound.

So, yes — the Pixel’s got the edge in audio, but for pure comfort and portability, the Honor Magic V5 wins hands down.

Software: Freedom vs. Familiarity

Here’s where the real separation begins.

Both phones run Android, but the Honor Magic V5 runs MagicOS 9.0 over Android 15, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold runs Android 16 (with the 10 Pro Fold on Android 16). And that version difference doesn’t matter nearly as much as how each company uses Android.

On the Pixel, the software is clean, simple, and… well, pretty plain. You can’t resize widgets much, rearrange the layout freely, or do the kind of multitasking that the Honor can. MagicOS gives you true desktop-like freedom — you can open up to three apps at once, freely resize or move them, and even have floating mini-apps that pop up when you get a text.

The Pixel? Two apps at a time, max.

You can add a sidebar app on the Pixel using a third-party app, but it’s nowhere near as fluid. With Honor’s built-in multitasking, I can literally pull another app onto the screen mid-conversation, or drag-and-drop photos straight into another window. It feels alive — Pixel feels safe.

Brightness, Displays & Real-World Use

On paper, both have incredible displays — but Honor takes it up a notch.

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold offers 2000 nits typical brightness with 3000 nits peak on the cover screen, and 1800 nits on the inside (up to 3000 peak). The Honor Magic V5, however, goes up to a blinding 5000 nits peak brightness on both screens. Outdoors, the difference isn’t massive, but indoors, the Honor’s screen just feels more vibrant and less reflective thanks to its anti-glare coating.

Open both up side-by-side, and you’ll instantly notice the Pixel’s screen catching light while the Honor stays easy on the eyes. That’s a huge deal if you use your foldable for long editing sessions, media, or reading.

Cameras: Pixel’s Reputation vs. Honor’s Reality

Okay, let’s talk cameras — because this is where everyone expects the Pixel to dominate. And honestly, it’s closer than you’d think… but not quite a win for Google.

Both have great image processing, but the Honor simply has better hardware. The main sensor is 50 MP versus the Pixel’s 48 MP, but the real gap appears with zoom and ultra-wide.

Pixel 9/10 Pro Fold: 48 MP main, 10.8 MP ultra-wide, 10.8 MP 5× telephoto
Honor Magic V5: 50 MP main, 50 MP ultra-wide, 64 MP 3× telephoto

Even though the Pixel’s telephoto technically zooms farther (5×), its low 10 MP resolution can’t compete with the Honor’s 64 MP lens. The Honor’s shots come out crisper, with better color and contrast — especially when cropping in.

The Honor also gives you 20 MP selfie cameras on both screens, versus the Pixel’s 10 MP. And for videographers? Both are great, but the Honor’s interface saves your last camera mode — something the Pixel still doesn’t do. Small detail, big frustration.

Battery Life, Charging & Power

The Honor Magic V5 houses a massive 5820 mAh silicon-carbon battery — and it shows. It easily lasts longer than the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s 4600 mAh pack. Even the newer Pixel 10 Pro Fold only goes up to around 5015 mAh, still not enough to catch up.

And when it comes to charging, it’s not even close:

Honor Magic V5: 66 W wired / 50 W wireless
Pixel 9 Pro Fold: 30 W wired / ~15 W wireless
Pixel 10 Pro Fold: 30 W wired / 15 W wireless

The Honor can fully recharge from 0 to 100% in about 45 minutes, while the Pixel takes nearly double that. The one neat trick Pixel has going is the new Pixel Snap magnetic ring for wireless charging — but you can add a $2 magnetic ring to the Honor and get the same functionality.

Performance: Snapdragon Power vs Tensor Struggle

Inside, the Honor Magic V5 runs the Snapdragon 8 Gen Elite, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold uses the Tensor G4 and the Pixel 10 Pro Fold uses the new Tensor G5. The difference? Noticeable — especially in heavy multitasking, photo processing, and heat management.

The Tensor chip is fine for casual users, but it’s not built for efficiency or sustained performance. The Honor simply flies through demanding apps and keeps cool doing it. Benchmarks back that up, but even day-to-day usage tells the story: the Honor just feels snappier.

Final Thoughts — Who Wins?

If you love a clean, minimal interface and don’t mind slower charging or limited customization, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold (and the 10 Pro Fold) are solid options. The cameras are good, the design is refined, and it’s pure Android.

But if you want a truly next-gen foldable experience — powerful charging, huge battery, crazy multitasking, customizable software, and a near-invisible crease — the Honor Magic V5 is the clear winner.

I wanted the Pixel to surprise me. Instead, it reminded me that Google’s foldable story is still catching up. Honor, meanwhile, is writing the next chapter.

Your turn: Would you upgrade to the Pixel 10 Pro Fold for the slimmer bezels and Pixel Snap, or would you stick with a powerhouse like the Honor Magic V5? Let me know in the comments — and check out my video comparison for all the side-by-side footage and camera samples.

The OnePlus Open: Still a Foldable to Beat — But Will We Ever See a Sequel?

When the OnePlus Open launched in 2023, it instantly changed how I looked at foldable phones. Up to that point, my main daily driver was the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, and while it was impressive, it always felt a bit narrow and awkward to use closed. Then came the OnePlus Open — a breath of fresh air with its wider outer display, sleek hinge design, and cameras that could finally compete with traditional flagships.

It wasn’t just another foldable; it was the foldable I’d been waiting for.

The OnePlus Open Was Ahead of Its Time

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the OnePlus Open delivered some of the smoothest performance I’d ever experienced on a foldable. Even in 2025, it still feels quick — snappy multitasking, fluid animations, and excellent thermal control.

What really set it apart, though, was its 6.3-inch outer display. It was refreshingly usable compared to the narrow front screen on the Fold 4 and even today’s Z Fold 7. The Open struck that perfect balance between compact and functional, something Samsung still hasn’t quite nailed.

And let’s not forget those cameras. With a 64 MP telephoto, 48 MP main, and 48 MP ultra-wide, it punched above its weight. Even in 2025, those specs rival many flagships. Add to that the nearly crease-less inner display, and you had a foldable that looked futuristic and refined from every angle.

The Letdown: No Sequel… Yet

Toward the end of 2024, rumors began circulating that OnePlus wouldn’t release an Open 2 — at least not anytime soon. Instead, Oppo, the parent company, shifted focus toward the Find N5, leaving global users wondering if OnePlus had quietly exited the foldable race.

It was disappointing, especially since the OnePlus Open was a global release with U.S. availability — something Oppo’s phones still lack. The Open also had an advantage in repairability and support, with legitimate U.S. service options, unlike imported Chinese models.

If you’re still rocking the original Open, you know it’s aged remarkably well. But for fans hoping for a 2025 or 2026 sequel, things started to feel uncertain.

Oppo Find N5: A Step Backward for Many

Then came the Oppo Find N5 — essentially the OnePlus Open’s spiritual successor in Asia — and the excitement turned into frustration. Oppo slimmed down the body but at the cost of major camera compromises.

They dropped to an 8 MP ultra-wide and 8 MP selfie camera, keeping only the main sensor at flagship quality. That’s a big step backward for photography lovers. Even die-hard Oppo fans admitted it felt like a downgrade.

The Find N5’s taller, narrower form also didn’t help. It reminded me too much of Samsung’s old Fold design — elegant, yes, but awkward for typing or watching videos.

So for me, the OnePlus Open still holds the crown. It found that perfect blend of design, camera power, and usability that others have struggled to match.

A Look Back: OnePlus Open vs Honor Magic V2

To understand where the next OnePlus Open could go, it helps to look at what its closest competitor was doing around the same time. The Honor Magic V2 came out just months after the Open, pushing the limits of thinness and refinement. Both phones were remarkable, but they took slightly different paths.

Here’s a quick comparison of the two:

Category	OnePlus Open	Honor Magic V2
Launch (Global)	Oct 2023	Sept 2023
Chipset / GPU	Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 / Adreno 740	Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 / Adreno 740
Software at Launch	Android 13, OxygenOS Fold	Android 13, MagicOS 7.2
Dimensions (Folded)	153.4 × 73.3 × 11.7 mm	156.7 × 74.0 × 9.9 mm
Thickness (Unfolded)	5.8 mm	4.7 mm
Weight	239 g	231 g
Outer Display	6.3″ LTPO OLED (2484 × 1116, 120 Hz)	6.43″ LTPO OLED (2376 × 1060, 120 Hz)
Inner Display	7.82″ LTPO OLED (2440 × 2268, 120 Hz)	7.92″ LTPO OLED (2344 × 2156, 120 Hz)
Peak Brightness	2800 nits	2500 nits
Rear Cameras	48 MP main + 64 MP telephoto + 48 MP ultra-wide	50 MP main + 20 MP telephoto + 50 MP ultra-wide
Front Camera	20 MP	16 MP
Battery	4805 mAh (Li-Poly)	5000 mAh (Si-Carbon)
Charging	67 W wired	66 W wired / 50 W wireless
Build	Aluminum frame + vegan leather back	Magnesium alloy + titanium hinge
Fold Crease	Nearly invisible	Very light
Price (Launch)	~$1,699 USD	~$1,200 USD (China)

While the Magic V2 was thinner and lighter, the OnePlus Open still felt more balanced overall, especially in camera performance and display usability. The V2 pushed boundaries in engineering, but the Open offered the kind of polish that made it feel complete right out of the box.

What Could the OnePlus Open 2 (or Oppo Find N6) Bring?

If Oppo does release a Find N6, or if OnePlus resurrects the “Open” brand, we can expect a few things based on leaks and the direction of the market:

Thinner design: Honor and Vivo have already proven that foldables can be razor-thin, and Oppo can follow suit.
Improved cameras: Oppo reportedly learned from the N5’s mistakes and plans to boost image quality — particularly with larger sensors and higher-resolution ultra-wide and zoom lenses.
Larger battery: Rumors suggest a slight bump beyond 5,000 mAh, possibly with 100 W charging to rival Honor’s V-series.
Wider aspect ratio: The N6 may shift closer to the original Open’s proportions, which would be a welcome return.

The big question is whether OnePlus will return as Oppo’s global counterpart, as they did before. If so, we could finally see a new OnePlus Open 2 make its way to international markets — complete with updated specs, refined software, and that beloved multitasking interface that allows three apps at once on the big screen.

My Take — and What I’m Hoping For

If Oppo and OnePlus truly want to capture global attention again, they’ll need to go back to what made the first Open great — no compromises. The wide form factor, top-tier cameras, global launch, and premium build made it special.

Foldables are finally maturing, and as the Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5 prove, there’s no excuse for weak cameras or limited regions anymore. The demand is there.

If the OnePlus Open 2 becomes real, even as a rebranded Find N6, I’ll be first in line to test it. And if not? Well, the original Open remains one of the most balanced foldables ever made — and a reminder that OnePlus once built something truly ahead of its time.

Would you buy a OnePlus Open 2 if it launched next year? Or has the brand already lost your trust after skipping 2025 entirely? Let me know your thoughts — and check out my full comparison video where I dive deeper into what makes the Open still one of the most satisfying foldables to use daily.

Pixel Watch 4: My First 72 Hours — and Why It Surprised Me

I’ll be honest — I didn’t expect to walk away from this weekend impressed by the new Pixel Watch 4. I packed it up, synced it to my Pixel Fold, and headed out for a four-day trip to really see how it handled real-world use. There was just one small problem: I forgot the charger. Yep, I left the only OEM cable it works with sitting neatly on my desk at home. This thing doesn’t support reverse wireless charging like some older smartwatches do — so I figured I’d be wearing a dead bracelet by Saturday.

But that’s where the first big surprise hit.

Battery Life That Outlasts Expectations

I left Friday morning with an 85% charge, and by Monday morning — nearly four days later — I still had 4% left. That’s not standby time; I used it all weekend long for notifications, activity tracking, and sleep monitoring. No charger, no battery anxiety, no problem.

When I finally plugged it in Monday morning, I decided to test how fast it would charge. From 4% to 58% took exactly 15 minutes. And even after an unexpected mid-charge software update, it still hit 100% in about 50 minutes flat. For reference, my Samsung Watch Ultra takes over an hour — and it’s not even close.

So yeah, Google’s done something right here. For a compact smartwatch with that sleek design, lasting an entire long weekend is seriously impressive.

Comfort, Design, and Daily Use

Once I got past my battery test anxiety, the first thing I noticed was how lightweight and comfortable the Pixel Watch 4 feels. Compared to the Samsung Watch Ultra, this thing is a feather. I didn’t even realize how much bulk I’d been lugging around until I switched. Both are 45mm watches, but because Google’s bezels are thinner and the face feels more open, the Pixel actually looks bigger on the wrist — in a good way.

I’ll admit, the watch band isn’t my favorite. It’s a little awkward to fasten one-handed, but once it’s on, it’s secure and comfortable. It’s water-resistant too, so no worries about a dip in the pool or a sweaty hike.

The 3,000-nit display is gorgeous. Even in bright California sunshine, I had zero trouble reading it. The smooth “Material You” interface looks modern, colorful, and easy on the eyes — definitely a visual upgrade from Samsung’s utilitarian menus.

Charging, Compatibility, and Everyday Features

Here’s a big one: the Pixel Watch 4 works perfectly on non-Pixel phones. I paired it to my Honor Magic V5, and every feature — even the ECG — worked flawlessly. No hidden “Pixel-only” restrictions like Samsung pulls when you use their watches with other Android devices. I could monitor my heart rhythm, check notifications, run apps, and control music without missing a single feature. That’s huge.

As for charging, Google’s charger may be proprietary, but it’s fast and reliable. I still wish it had the option for reverse wireless charging from a phone, though. Samsung used to offer that, but they removed it on the Ultra series, which still doesn’t make sense.

Fitness, Health, and Fitbit Frustration

Health tracking is accurate and easy to view directly on the watch. You get steps, heart rate, and sleep data with smooth animations and clear visuals. The sleep analysis screen is fantastic — I averaged around six hours per night, and it even showed my REM cycles clearly.

My only gripe? It relies on Fitbit. The watch itself is great, but once you open the Fitbit app on your phone, you get bombarded with ads to “Try Fitbit Premium.” I just want my stats, not a $20-a-month subscription pitch. Thankfully, you can bypass most of that by viewing data directly on the watch or tapping “Open on phone” to go straight to your results without navigating Fitbit’s upsell maze.

Gemini vs. Siri (and the Pixel Advantage)

Voice assistants are another area where Pixel crushed it. I did a quick test between Google Assistant (Gemini) and Siri on my Apple Watch.
Siri struggled to connect twice before finally telling me it was cloudy. Gemini nailed it instantly — complete with extra context, details, and a smooth voice response.

Siri did inform me of a flood warnings in Anaheim — Gemini didn’t mention it until I specifically asked. Gemini, on the other hand, immediately confirmed a flash flood watch with the full schedule and area details. That’s the kind of real-world smarts I want in a smartwatch.

My 72-Hour Verdict

After three full days of use, here’s my takeaway: the Pixel Watch 4 might be the best all-around Android smartwatch right now. It’s light, fast, beautiful, and lasts longer than I ever expected.

It doesn’t hide features behind brand loyalty walls. It doesn’t weigh your wrist down. And even if you forget your charger (like I did), you’ll still make it through the weekend just fine.

Would I still wear my Samsung Watch Ultra? Sure — it’s a beast. But the Pixel Watch 4 feels more natural, modern, and effortless. And for the first time, I can honestly say Google’s watch is no longer playing catch-up — it’s setting the pace.

Honor Magic V5 vs VIVO X Fold 5: Which Foldable Wins the Daily Battle?

This is the matchup everyone’s been waiting for — Honor Magic V5 vs VIVO X Fold 5. Two of the most advanced foldables ever made, both thin, sleek, and ridiculously powerful. I spent several days putting them through my real-world daily routine — from unlocking screens and checking notifications to editing videos, snapping photos, and even doing my morning coffee scroll. So, how do they stack up head-to-head? Let’s dive in.

Design and Build

Right away, you’ll notice the VIVO X Fold 5 stands a little taller and slimmer, with softer rounded corners. The Honor Magic V5, on the other hand, has a slightly wider stance, which actually fits my hand better. It’s more comfortable to type on and easier to reach across the display — a subtle but meaningful win for Honor.

Both phones are impressively thin — around 9mm folded — but the Magic V5 does have a larger camera bump. In my “level test,” they were nearly identical in thickness, but when it came to the camera module, the V5 clearly sat higher off the table. Minor detail, but it’s noticeable.

VIVO adds a bonus feature: a programmable side button. It’s not a toggle like on the OnePlus Open, but you can assign it to mute, launch an app, or even trigger the camera. Handy touch, and I actually grew to like it.

Software & Daily Use

I’ll start with the disclaimer — my VIVO X Fold 5 is the Chinese version, while the Honor Magic V5 I used is global. So yes, there are some quirks. For instance, on the VIVO, your lock screen wallpaper mirrors your home screen, and you can’t change them separately. Small annoyance, but one that bugged me. Honor, thankfully, gives you full customization freedom.

Both phones unlock quickly with their side-mounted fingerprint readers. I used to think Samsung’s ultrasonic sensor was faster, but these two are lightning quick. No hesitation.

On the inside, both run Android 15, but they take different approaches.

Honor Magic V5: MagicOS 9, Snapdragon 8 Elite, 16GB RAM, 5820 mAh battery.
VIVO X Fold 5: ColorOS-based OriginOS 4, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 16GB RAM, 6000 mAh battery.

That means the VIVO technically has a bigger battery, but Honor’s new silicon-carbon cell makes up the difference with better efficiency.

Stylus & Connectivity

Here’s where Honor pulls ahead: stylus support on both screens. That’s right — you can use the Magic Pen on the cover and the inner display, and it’s great for note-taking or even thumbnail artwork (yes, I’ve made a few that way). The VIVO doesn’t have stylus support at all.

In my Wi-Fi speed test, the Honor Magic V5 hit 444 Mbps down and 8.3 Mbps up — basically maxing out my home internet plan. The VIVO X Fold 5 came close at 340 down and 9 up, but the edge went to Honor. However, on cellular, VIVO flipped the results — its signal speeds were almost triple Honor’s. So Wi-Fi lovers will lean Honor, while road warriors might prefer VIVO.

Now, about carrier compatibility — I called AT&T and Verizon, and both told me these devices weren’t officially supported. Yet dozens of users in my comments say they’re using both phones just fine. So your mileage may vary, but the reality is — they do work on U.S. networks.

Software Experience & Widgets

Both phones let you multitask beautifully, but they do it differently.
Honor uses a swipe-from-side gesture to open split-screen apps, while VIVO uses a three-finger swipe up. On Honor, you can go wild — even run three full-size apps simultaneously. Add “Workbench” mode, and you can technically juggle four. Perfect for research, notes, or — in my case — running Bible study tools side by side.

VIVO’s widget system is elegant, with interactive “stackable” cards for things like recorder, notes, and earbuds — though you’re limited to the pre-installed apps in the Chinese version. Honor’s widget options are more limited overall, but at least you get access to Google’s official widgets from the Play Store.

Camera Showdown

Time for the fun part — cameras.

Both devices deliver flagship-quality photos, but they take different approaches.
The Honor Magic V5 tends to produce brighter, more colorful shots — perfect for sharing right out of the camera. The VIVO X Fold 5, with its Zeiss optics, gives a more natural and cinematic tone.

At night, the story flips. Honor’s dedicated night mode keeps images clean and well-lit, while VIVO relies purely on its lens tuning — which can make shots look softer, though sometimes more realistic. I’ll say this: Honor wins for consistency, but VIVO’s camera feels more “pro” when lighting is good.

Zoom? Honor takes a slight lead up to 20x, but VIVO pulls ahead at extreme zoom (50x and beyond) with sharper details.

Portrait mode? Easy — VIVO wins. Its bokeh looks natural, while Honor’s portrait mode doesn’t always blur the background properly.

Macro photography is a toss-up — Honor captures great detail, but VIVO’s colors pop more.

Performance & Video Editing

Here’s where specs meet sweat. Both have top-tier chips — Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 vs 8 Elite — but the real-world difference is minimal. To test this, I edited and exported the same 4K video on both using PowerDirector.

To my surprise, VIVO initially exported faster — until thermal throttling kicked in. Then Honor’s Elite chip surged ahead, finishing just seconds faster. So while they’re nearly neck-and-neck, Honor Magic V5 ultimately wins in long, sustained performance.

Final Thoughts: Which One Do I Prefer?

Both are incredible foldables — and either could be your daily driver — but for me, the Honor Magic V5 edges out the win. It’s wider, easier to use, has stylus support, faster Wi-Fi, and a slightly better balance between camera brightness and consistency.

The VIVO X Fold 5, however, still shines with its Zeiss camera tuning, build quality, and great signal strength. If you prefer a slimmer feel and more natural photography, VIVO might be your pick.

But for everyday usability, the Honor Magic V5 is the foldable that keeps winning me over.

Would you pick width and stylus, or slim design and Zeiss lenses?
Join the discussion — I want to hear what you’d choose between these two powerhouses.

The Ultimate Battery Life Showdown: Which Flagship Lasts the Longest?

Hello and welcome back to GOT! Today we’re diving into the long-awaited battery drain test — a real-world showdown between some of the top smartphones out right now. This lineup is stacked: the Honor Magic V3, Honor Magic V5, Vivo X Fold 5, Samsung Z Fold 7, Samsung S25 Ultra, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel 10 Pro.

Now before we jump in, let’s get something out of the way — this kind of testing is not an exact science. Everyone’s results may vary, depending on your settings, apps, and how you use your phone day-to-day. My goal here isn’t to crown a “perfect” winner but to see which phone drops out first when they all face the same set of draining obstacles.

Is this testing “fair”? Not by a long shot. There’s really no such thing as a perfectly fair comparison unless you’re testing multiple copies of the exact same phone. Every phone here has unique hardware, software, and optimizations, which means they’ll perform differently under identical conditions. That’s what makes this so interesting — seeing how each brand’s design decisions translate into real-world endurance.

The Setup

To keep things as level as possible, I removed the SIM cards from all devices so they’d run on Wi-Fi only — that way, they’d still receive notifications like a typical user setup without cellular variation. Brightness levels were manually adjusted to match as closely as possible (no fancy light meters here — just the old-fashioned eyeball test).

We started the day fully charged — well, almost. The Z Fold 7 wasn’t plugged in overnight and started at 23%, so I gave it a full top-up before kicking things off. Once everything hit 100%, the test began.

The Plan

This wasn’t just a simple “play a video until they die” test. We ran a mix of daily use and stress scenarios to reflect real-world battery drain:

Video streaming: Hours of YouTube playback (looping my channel, of course)
Benchmarking: 3DMark Extreme tests to simulate heavy gaming
4K video recording: 30-minute clips to generate heat and workload
Rendering: Exporting 4K footage on each device
Standby time: A few hours idle to track passive drain

Every step was timed, logged, and checked for heat using an infrared thermometer.

Early Results: Holding Strong

After the first few hours of video playback, most phones were still in the mid-to-high 90% range. As usual, iPhones stayed at 100% longer than most before dropping quickly later — typical Apple behavior.

When we hit the standby phase, two phones surprised me: the iPhone 17 Pro dropped 4%, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold dropped 7% — quite a bit for doing absolutely nothing.

Mid-Test Performance & Heat

Next came 4K video rendering — something I do often when editing content. This phase really separates the cool-running phones from the hotheads. The S25 Ultra hit 99°F, while both iPhones ran hot, peaking over 106°F, and slowing down their render speeds significantly.

By the halfway mark:

Vivo X Fold 5 led with 65% remaining
Honor Magic V5 followed at 63%
Z Fold 7 impressed at 61%
iPhones trailed around 49–58%

The real shocker? The Pixel 10 Pro fell behind its older sibling, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

The Final Stretch

As hours ticked by, the weaker batteries began to fade:

iPhone 16 Pro tapped out first at 8 hours, 5 minutes
Pixel 10 Pro followed at 8 hours, 22 minutes
Honor Magic V3 held strong at 8 hours, 44 minutes
S25 Ultra exited at 8 hours, 46 minutes
Z Fold 7 stunned everyone, surviving 9 hours, 44 minutes

That’s right — the Z Fold 7, often criticized for average endurance, outlasted its Ultra sibling by nearly an hour!

Then came the top contenders. The iPhone 17 Pro lasted 9 hours, 26 minutes, while the Vivo X Fold 5 made it to 11 hours, 11 minutes. But the Honor Magic V5 pushed just a bit further, taking the win at 11 hours and 22 minutes — an incredible performance considering its slightly smaller 5820 mAh battery versus Vivo’s 6000 mAh.

Final Rankings

Rank	Device	Battery Size (mAh)	Total Runtime
🥇 1st	Honor Magic V5	5820 mAh	11 hrs 22 min
🥈 2nd	Vivo X Fold 5	6000 mAh	11 hrs 11 min
🥉 3rd	Samsung Z Fold 7	4400 mAh	9 hrs 44 min
4th	iPhone 17 Pro	~3998 mAh (est.)	9 hrs 26 min
5th	Samsung S25 Ultra	5000 mAh	8 hrs 46 min
6th	Honor Magic V3	5150 mAh	8 hrs 44 min
7th	Pixel 9 Pro Fold	4650 mAh	8 hrs 22 min
8th	Pixel 10 Pro	4870 mAh	8 hrs 22 min
9th	iPhone 16 Pro	~3582 mAh (est.)	8 hrs 05 min

Takeaways

This test reinforced one big truth: real-world battery life isn’t just about capacity. Optimization, cooling, and software efficiency make a massive difference. The Honor Magic V5 and Vivo X Fold 5 showed that foldables can go the distance, and the Z Fold 7 shocked me with how far it’s come in endurance.

Meanwhile, Apple’s iPhones, while efficient, seem to struggle under extended heavy use, especially when heat builds up. And Google’s latest Pixel still has some catching up to do.

But again — your mileage may vary. Different settings, apps, or usage patterns will lead to different results. This was one creator’s attempt to simulate a demanding day across multiple flagship devices — not a lab test, just a real-world stress test to see who survives the grind.

So what do you think — were you surprised by the outcome? Which one do you think deserves the battery crown? Drop your thoughts below, and stay tuned for my next video: the charging speed test to see which of these phones powers back up the fastest.