Nothing CEO Carl Pei recently said that smartphone prices are likely to rise due to increasing memory costs. In a post on X, he warned that if someone has been waiting to upgrade their device, “the best time was yesterday, the next best time is now,” adding that upcoming sales seasons may not offer the usual level of discounts.
He explained that memory prices have surged significantly, even becoming more expensive than components like the processor or display. As a result, upcoming devices—including models like the Nothing Phone (4a)—could see price increases of around $100 (approximately RM405).
The message suggests that consumers should expect higher smartphone prices going forward, especially as component costs continue to rise.
Tecno has launched the Pova 8 5G in India, featuring an 8000 mAh battery, an “Alive Matrix Display,” and other upgraded specifications, with an expected price of around RM1,280
The device is clearly aimed at midrange gaming users and comes with a strong focus on battery life and performance. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 chipset and paired with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 256GB UFS 2.2 storage.
One of its standout features is the massive 8,000 mAh battery, supported by 45W fast charging (claimed 0–50% in about 35 minutes) and 10W reverse wired charging. The battery is also rated for over 2,000 charge cycles, which Tecno says can last up to six years.
On the front, it has a 6.76-inch FHD+ IPS LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 240Hz touch sampling rate, along with improved touch recognition for wet or oily fingers. On the back, it features a 50MP Sony LYTIA 600 main camera and a unique “Alive Matrix Display” integrated into the camera island.
Durability-wise, it includes an IP64 rating for dust and splash resistance, though it does not have military-grade drop certification. The phone runs HiOS 16 based on Android 16 and comes in Arc White, Graphite Black, Helios Orange, and Echo Green.
Nothing’s CEO has warned that smartphone prices are likely to increase soon
