Android Circuit: Honor’s Groundbreaking Magic V3, New Fairphone 5, and HMD Fusion Revealed
This week in the Android world has been packed with exciting news and product releases, ranging from groundbreaking foldable phones to sustainable smartphone innovations.
Here’s a look at the top headlines, including Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold reviews, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim leak, Honor's record-breaking Magic V3, Huawei's ambitious tri-fold device, HMD's transforming Fusion, and the new Fairphone 5. Plus, a surprise from Balatro in mobile gaming.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold Reviews Highlight a Game-Changing Feature
The early reviews of Google's Pixel 9 Pro Fold have highlighted one standout feature: its outer screen’s ratio, which mimics a regular smartphone. Unlike previous foldable devices like the Samsung Z Fold or the first-gen Pixel Fold, this new design provides a more familiar user experience.
One reviewer noted, “With the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, you forget that you’re using a foldable because the outer screen feels like a standard phone. It’s something that Samsung’s Z Fold or even the earlier Pixel Fold struggled to deliver.”
Google's foldable innovation is shaping up to offer a smoother transition for users, making it less bulky and more practical than some of its predecessors.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim Leak
Samsung isn't far behind, with its upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim making waves. The latest leak gives us a first glimpse of the device, showing a flatter frame with rounded corners for a more ergonomic feel. While the camera layout remains largely the same, the new design focuses on slimming down the device.
As one leak described, “The Galaxy Z Fold 6 Slim has a slightly more angular camera island compared to the Z Fold 6, but its overall footprint is more compact.”
This move toward a sleeker design could be Samsung's attempt to reclaim the "slimmest foldable" title from its competitors.
Honor’s Magic V3 Takes the Slim Crown
However, the record for the thinnest foldable goes to Honor's Magic V3, which debuted at Berlin’s IFA event. With dimensions of just 4.35mm when unfolded and 9.2mm when folded, the Magic V3 outclasses rivals like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (5.6mm / 12.1mm) and Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold (5.1mm / 10.5mm) on the design front.
Honor's Magic V3 is not just about size—its performance and sleek aesthetics make it a true contender in the foldable market. TechRadar called it "the new benchmark for foldable design."
Huawei's Tri-Fold Phone Set to Disrupt
Huawei has taken foldable technology to the next level with its upcoming tri-fold phone, featuring three panels instead of the usual two. Slated for a full reveal on September 10, Huawei’s device is expected to grab attention, especially given its strategic launch date—one day after Apple’s iPhone 16 reveal.
It’s a clear attempt to steal the spotlight from Apple's big moment, especially in China, where both brands are significant players. The tri-fold phone promises an even more immersive experience with a larger screen and additional versatility.
HMD Fusion's Transformative Design
HMD Global has also made a splash with its latest release, the HMD Fusion. This innovative phone features interchangeable back covers that allow users to add unique features, such as wireless charging or a rugged exterior. HMD is also encouraging DIY enthusiasts by providing an open-source toolkit for 3D printing custom designs.
One standout feature is the inclusion of Smart Pins, which enable these back covers to attach seamlessly to the phone. As GSM Arena reports, “Users can customize their devices not only with HMD’s official covers but also by creating their own, making the Fusion a unique offering in the smartphone market.”
HMD will begin selling first-party accessories for the Fusion later in Q4, giving users even more ways to tailor their devices.
Fairphone 5: Ethical and Sustainable Gets Cheaper
Fairphone continues to lead the charge in ethical and sustainable smartphones with the release of a more affordable variant of the Fairphone 5. Known for its commitment to fair-trade materials and easily replaceable parts, Fairphone has now introduced a model with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage—compared to the original’s 8GB/256GB setup.
The new variant also comes in new color options, including matte black and moss green, while the premium version retains its sky blue and transparent designs. Liliputing notes that this move makes ethical technology more accessible to a broader audience without sacrificing performance.
Balatro's Mobile Debut
In gaming news, the popular deck-building poker game Balatro, a hit on both home and portable consoles, is finally making its way to mobile. With just one cryptic post on social media—“Balatro is coming to mobile on September 26th”—the game has already generated significant buzz.
Fans of the game are eager to see how the mobile version will perform, and given its widespread appeal, Balatro's mobile release could become another addictive time sink.
Wrapping Up the Android Week
Android Circuit brings you the latest from the Android ecosystem every week. Stay tuned for more news on foldable phones, innovative tech releases, and exciting developments in the mobile world. Don’t forget to check out the Apple Loop if you want to catch up on all things Apple.
If you missed last week’s Android Circuit, catch up on all the important headlines here. Have a tip or link you’d like to see featured? Feel free to get in touch!
