The passport-sized Galaxy Z Fold8 might be one of the best ideas for a foldable ever. Hardly anyone thinks that Samsung’s latest foldable type was a misstep for the brand. Other companies are even rumored to bring out their own passport-sized foldable soon. Now, Samsung is reportedly going further in the same direction by working on an even wider foldable.

Compared to traditional book-style foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold8 has a more squarish shape when folded. Naturally, the phone’s unfolded state is more rectangular, allowing for more screen real estate for full-screen content. It feels much more immersive to watch movies and shows on the foldable.

Now, according to ETNews, Samsung is working on an even wider foldable, potentially for next year. Though sparse on more technical details, the report hints that the next iteration will focus on better video playback, which does indicate a better aspect ratio.

Though foldables have been under the spotlight for a while now, this year might be the moment that the segment reaches its maturity. A lot of brands today have worthy alternatives for foldables. Some are also working on passport-style ones. Apple, the last holdout among the big names of the industry, is rumored to launch its first foldable later this year. There is no better time to try a foldable than this year.

SEE ALSO: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Review

The upcoming realme 16T will have an 8,000mAh Titan Battery and a 7-Year Battery Health Guarantee for power and endurance designed to last for years.

The brand credits this to its Titan AI Deep Power and Extended Use Care, which work to slow down battery wear over time.

Moreover, the device is also backed by a 6-year Guaranteed Smooth Performance with AI Boost to help keep thing running steadily even after years of daily use.

The realme 16T’s battery supports 45W SUPERVOOC Charge, along with Bypass Charge and Reverse Charge.

These features come handy for keeping the phone cool while plugged in, and for topping up other devices when needed.

Furthermore, the device comes with All-Around Water & Drop Protection, carrying an IP69 Pro rating and Military-Grade Shock Resistance. This way, it can withstand daily bumps, spills, and dust exposure.

Alongside long-term durability, realme is offering added value to early buyers.

Customers who blind pre-order the realme 16T from August 17 to 27 and claim their reserved unit on the First Selling Day on September 4 can enjoy freebies and discounts worth PhP 8,097.

The exclusive offer includes a free TechLife Bluetooth Speaker 3, free Laifen SE Lite Hair Dryer, a Privilege Card with six-mnth extended warranty and six-month screen damage protection. To top it all off, there will be a PhP 2,000 off discount.

More details about the realme 16T like its price, full specs, and launch date will be revealed soon.

Xiaomi is putting long-term reliability at the center of the upcoming REDMI Note 17 Series.

In a Singapore media release dated August 17, 2026, Xiaomi outlined its “Built for Years” approach for the new series. The company says the strategy focuses on battery longevity, durability, security updates, and sustained performance as people keep their smartphones for longer.

The REDMI Note Series has shipped more than 500 million units worldwide. Xiaomi says the lineup has evolved around changing user needs, from larger displays and bigger batteries to improved durability and water resistance.

Six years of “Built for Years”

The REDMI Note 17 Series will follow a six-year “Built for Years” commitment covering battery longevity, security patch updates, and sustained smoothness. Xiaomi notes that the specific coverage will vary depending on the model and market.

The company is also introducing the first Pro Max model in the REDMI Note lineup. Xiaomi says the model will bring “max design, max quality, and max experience” to the series.

Durability will also play a major role. Xiaomi says the REDMI Note 17 Series has received TÜV SÜD certifications covering battery performance, drop resistance, and water resistance. The tests aim to reflect real-world use rather than laboratory performance alone.

Bigger battery, stronger durability

The series will feature Xiaomi’s largest-ever smartphone battery. It uses silicon-carbon technology and is designed to balance daily endurance, long-term cycle life, safety, and fast charging.

Xiaomi rates the battery for 1,600 charging cycles while retaining more than 80 percent capacity. The company says this is designed to support six years of reliable performance under demanding daily use.

The phones are also designed to better handle everyday accidents. Xiaomi says they use 17 custom waterproof components and undergo 10 airtightness tests. The devices are certified for 3-meter drop resistance as well.

Xiaomi says this focus is particularly relevant to mid-range smartphones. As consumers hold onto their devices for longer, the company believes longevity is becoming just as important as performance, cameras, and design.