Category: Tech Gadgets

  • HTC Comeback: A New Android Phone Launches Next Week

    HTC Comeback: A New Android Phone Launches Next Week

    HTC used to be a big name in the world of Android phones. Many people loved their phones, but over the years, HTC has become less popular. Despite this, the company hasn’t given up. They continue to release new phones every now and then. This month, HTC is getting ready to launch another new phone. Let’s take a closer look at HTC’s journey and what we can expect from their upcoming release.

    HTC

    Around 2018, things started to go downhill for HTC. The competition in the smartphone market became tougher. Companies like Samsung, Apple, and many others were making amazing phones, and HTC struggled to keep up. As a result, their popularity declined, and they fell out of the spotlight.

    Last year, HTC tried to catch people’s attention by launching a phone focused on the metaverse. The metaverse is a virtual world where people can interact with each other. Again, the idea was unique, but it didn’t make a big impact.

    In May 2023, HTC launched the HTC U23 Pro. This was another mid-range phone, but it was one of the most interesting phones HTC had released in a while. It had some good features and was reasonably priced. People who bought it liked it, but it still wasn’t enough to make HTC a top player again.

    HTC is getting ready to launch a new phone on June 12. They have been teasing this new phone, and people are curious to see what it will be like. The new phone is expected to be part of the HTC U series, possibly named the “HTC U24” or something similar.

    Some details about the new phone have already surfaced. Here’s what we know so far:

    – RAM: The new HTC phone will have 12GB of RAM. RAM is important for multitasking, as it allows the phone to run multiple apps smoothly at the same time.

    – Processor: It will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor. This is a mid-range processor that offers good performance for everyday tasks.

    Based on the information available, it seems like HTC’s new phone will be another mid-range device. This means it will likely be priced lower than flagship phones from other companies, but it will still offer decent features.

    HTC has shown resilience by continuing to release new phones despite the challenges. Their efforts to find a niche in the mid-range market could eventually pay off. If they can offer great value for money and innovate, there is hope for a comeback.

  • Reasons Why Huawei Mate X5 is Better Than Galaxy Z Fold 5

    Reasons Why Huawei Mate X5 is Better Than Galaxy Z Fold 5

    The foldable phone market is getting really exciting, with many companies trying to make the best foldable phone. Samsung is well-known for its foldable phones, but Huawei is catching up fast. Last year, Samsung released the Galaxy Z Fold 5, and now Huawei has come out with the Mate X5. Let’s look at why the Huawei Mate X5 is better than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5.

    Huawei Mate X5

    Thinner and Lighter Design

    Huawei Mate X5 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Which is Easier to Carry?
    Foldable phones are often bulky and heavy, making them harder to carry around than regular smartphones. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is quite thick, measuring 13.4mm when folded (6.1mm when unfolded) and weighs 253 grams.

    On the other hand, the Huawei Mate X5 is thinner and lighter. It is just 11.1mm thick when folded (5.3mm when unfolded) and weighs about 243 grams. This difference might seem small, but you can feel it when you hold the phones. Although both are heavier than regular phones, the Mate X5 is more comfortable to carry.

    Better Display

    Huawei Mate X5 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Screen Quality
    Both the Huawei Mate X5 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 have amazing screens, but the Mate X5 has a slight edge. The Mate X5 has a larger primary display at 7.85 inches with a resolution of 2224 x 2496 pixels. This gives it a higher pixel density of 426 pixels per inch (ppi).

    The Galaxy Z Fold 5 has a slightly smaller 7.6-inch screen with a resolution of 1812 x 2176 pixels and a pixel density of 373 ppi. The higher pixel density on the Mate X5 means that images and text look sharper and clearer. When you’re using a big screen, especially for watching videos, playing games, or reading, having a higher resolution makes everything look better. The Huawei Mate X5 offers a better viewing experience because of its larger and sharper display.

    Bigger Battery and Faster Charging

    Huawei Mate X5 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Battery Life and Charging
    Battery life is very important for smartphones, especially for foldable ones with big screens that use a lot of power. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 has a 4,400mAh battery, which supports 25W wired fast charging, 15W wireless fast charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.

    The Huawei Mate X5 outshines the Galaxy Z Fold 5 in this area. It has a larger 5,060mAh battery, which means it can last longer. It also supports faster charging: 66W wired fast charging, 50W wireless fast charging, and 7.5W reverse wireless charging.

    Superior Camera Setup

    Huawei Mate X5 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Camera Quality
    Both the Huawei Mate X5 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 have great camera systems, but the Mate X5 has some advantages. The Mate X5 features a triple camera setup with a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a 13-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens.

    In comparison, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 has a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 10-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 13-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens. For selfies and video calls, the Mate X5 has an 8-megapixel camera on both the primary and secondary screens, while the Z Fold 5 has a 10-megapixel camera on the cover screen and a 4-megapixel under-display camera. A better camera setup means you can take higher quality photos and videos. The Huawei Mate X5’s cameras offer more versatility and better zoom capabilities, making it a better choice for photography enthusiasts.

    More Design Options

    Huawei Mate X5 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Customization
    The Huawei Mate X5 gives you more choices when it comes to the design of your phone. You can choose between a glass back or an eco-leather back, both of which look and feel premium. The phone is also surrounded by an aluminum frame, adding to its durability.

    Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 5 also has a metallic frame, but it only offers a glass back option. Both phones are rated IPX8 for water resistance, which means they can handle being submerged in water without damage. Having more options for the design of your phone allows you to choose one that fits your personal style. The Huawei Mate X5’s additional eco-leather option gives it an edge over the Galaxy Z Fold 5.

  • Samsung Luxury MicroLED TVs: Big Screens, Bigger Prices

    Samsung Luxury MicroLED TVs: Big Screens, Bigger Prices

    Samsung’s new MicroLED TVs are extremely expensive, with prices ranging from $109,999 to $149,999 for different sizes. The largest model, a 114-inch TV, is the most expensive at $149,999. These TVs are part of Samsung’s modular The Wall design, which was first introduced in 2018. The MicroLED TVs are self-emitting, meaning they do not use a backlight like OLED TVs do, and they are assembled in bezel-less panels that can be set up in various configurations.

    Samsung MicroLED

    The TVs are designed to provide deep blacks and high contrast, similar to OLED TVs, but without the risk of burn-in. They are also highly customizable, allowing users to set up the TVs in almost any configuration they desire. The TVs are listed on Samsung’s online store, but they are currently out of stock.

    Samsung has also introduced smaller models, including a 76-inch version, which was part of the company’s 2021 lineup. The MicroLED TVs are considered luxury items and are likely to be purchased by those who value high-quality displays and are willing to invest in premium technology.

    Here are the details of the three MicroLED TV models:

    89-inch model: This is the most affordable option, priced at $109,999.
    101-inch model: This model is priced at $129,999.
    114-inch model: This is the largest and most expensive option, priced at $149,999.

    Each of these TVs offers high-quality display capabilities, including deep blacks and high contrast, making them suitable for those who want the best viewing experience. In 2021, Samsung made a TV that was 110 inches. It was like a normal TV, not modular like The Wall. This year, they have even more sizes, including the really big 114-inch one.

  • Ways to Make iPhone Battery Last Longer: Tips for Longer Life

    Ways to Make iPhone Battery Last Longer: Tips for Longer Life

    The iPhone is an indispensable tool for many of us, but its battery life can be a significant concern. With constant use and the ever-growing list of features and apps, it’s easy for the battery to drain quickly. There are several ways to make your iPhone battery last longer and ensure you get the most out of your device.

    iPhone Battery

    Tip 1: Check Your Battery Usage

    Before you start making any changes, it is essential to understand how your iPhone is using its battery. Open the Settings app and navigate to the “Battery” section. Here, you can view detailed statistics about your battery usage, including the apps that are draining your battery the most. This information will help you identify areas where you can make adjustments to conserve battery life.

    Tip 2: Lower Your Brightness

    The display is one of the most power-draining components of your iPhone. By reducing the brightness, you can significantly extend your battery life. Open Control Center and adjust the brightness slider to a level that is comfortable for your eyes. You can also enable the “Auto-Brightness” feature, which adjusts the brightness based on the ambient light around you.

    Tip 3: Turn Off Background App Refresh

    Background App Refresh is a feature that allows apps to update their content even when they are not in use. While it can be convenient, it can also drain your battery quickly. To disable this feature, go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and toggle it off. You can also disable it for specific apps to conserve battery life.

    Tip 4: Use WiFi Whenever Possible

    WiFi uses less power than a cellular connection, making it a more efficient way to stay connected. Whenever possible, use WiFi instead of cellular data to conserve battery life.

    Tip 5: Activate Airplane Mode in Low Signal Areas

    When you are in an area with poor cellular coverage, your iPhone will continue to search for a signal, draining your battery. To prevent this, activate Airplane Mode when you are in low signal areas. This will prevent your iPhone from constantly searching for a signal, saving battery life.

    Tip 6: Keep Your Battery Healthy

    A healthy battery is essential for optimal performance and extended battery life. To check the health of your battery, open the Settings app and navigate to the “Battery” section. Here, you can view detailed statistics about your battery’s health, including its maximum capacity and charging history. You can also enable “Optimized Battery Charging” to learn your charging schedule and avoid overcharging.

    Tip 7: Manage Apps That Are Draining Battery

    Some apps can be significant battery drains, especially if they are running in the background. To identify which apps are draining your battery, open the Settings app and navigate to the “Battery” section. Here, you can view detailed statistics about your battery usage, including the apps that are using the most battery life. You can then delete or limit the usage of these apps to conserve battery life.

    Tip 8: Limit Background Activity

    Background app refreshing can also impact battery life. To limit this activity, go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and toggle it off. You can also disable it for specific apps to conserve battery life.

    Tip 9: Turn Off Always-On Display

    The Always-On Display feature on your iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max shows the time, wallpaper, and widgets even when your device is locked. While it can be convenient, it can also drain your battery quickly. To turn it off, go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Always-On Display and toggle it off.

    Tip 10: Use Dark Mode

    Dark Mode can help reduce battery drain by reducing the amount of power required to display bright colors. To enable Dark Mode, go to Settings > Display & Brightness and toggle it on.

  • Vivo X Fold 3 Pro vs Galaxy Z Fold 5: Detailed Comparison

    Vivo X Fold 3 Pro vs Galaxy Z Fold 5: Detailed Comparison

    The foldable smartphone market is witnessing intense competition, with Samsung and Vivo being the key players. Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 5 in 2023, and Vivo recently responded with the X Fold 3 Pro. Both devices are packed with state-of-the-art technology and innovative designs. The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro has several advantages over the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 in various aspects.

    Vivo X Fold 3 Pro

    Superior Display

    The X Fold 3 Pro outshines the Z Fold 5 with its larger 8.03-inch AMOLED main display, offering more screen space for multitasking, gaming, and video viewing. It also has a higher resolution, ensuring sharper visuals and clearer text. The X Fold 3 Pro’s peak brightness of 4500 nits significantly surpasses the Z Fold 5’s 1750 nits, ensuring excellent visibility outdoors.

    Enhanced Durability

    The X Fold 3 Pro features a lightweight carbon fiber hinge certified to endure 500,000 folds, outlasting the Z Fold 5’s flex hinge. Additionally, the X Fold 3 Pro incorporates innovative dual 3D ultrasonic fingerprint readers, providing added security.

    Powerful Performance

    The X Fold 3 Pro is equipped with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, offering superior performance and improved power efficiency compared to the Z Fold 5’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. The X Fold 3 Pro also provides a higher RAM option, further enhancing its performance.

    Versatile Camera

    The X Fold 3 Pro’s camera system is versatile, featuring a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 64MP 3x telephoto lens, and a 50MP ultra-wide sensor. It also boasts dual 32MP front-facing cameras for high-quality selfies and video calls. The X Fold 3 Pro’s camera setup benefits from Vivo’s custom V3 imaging chip, potentially improving image processing and overall performance.

  • Samsung Introduces ViewFinity Monitor Series for Creatives and Professionals

    Samsung Introduces ViewFinity Monitor Series for Creatives and Professionals

    Samsung Electronics has announced its latest lineup of monitors, featuring the 2024 Odyssey OLED gaming monitor, Smart Monitor, and ViewFinity monitor series.

    Odyssey OLED

    Odyssey OLED Series (2024)

    The 2024 Odyssey OLED series introduces two models: the Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SD model) and the Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SD model). The G8 model features a 32″ flat OLED display with 4K UHD resolution, a 240Hz refresh rate, and a 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time. The G6 model, on the other hand, offers a 27″ QHD display with a 360Hz refresh rate. Both models incorporate Samsung’s OLED Safeguard+ technology to prevent burn-in and provide exceptional OLED picture quality and smooth gameplay.

    Smart Monitor M8 (2024)

    The Smart Monitor M8 combines various device functions into one hub for enhanced entertainment and productivity. It features a 32″ 4K UHD display, AI features powered by the NQM AI processor, and a SlimFit Camera for video calls. All Smart Monitors now feature a Workout Tracker, syncing with Galaxy Watch for real-time health data during content streaming.

    ViewFinity Series (2024)

    Samsung’s latest ViewFinity lineup, optimized for creatives and professionals, includes the ViewFinity S8, S7, and S6 models. These monitors are designed with responsible practices, incorporating at least 10% recycled plastic and avoiding chemical sprays on plastic components. Each 2024 ViewFinity monitor supports HDR10 and integrates TÜV-Rheinland-certified Intelligent Eye Care features to alleviate eye strain during prolonged work periods.

  • Samsung’s Software Updates vs. Hardware Repairs: A Paradox

    Samsung’s Software Updates vs. Hardware Repairs: A Paradox

    Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series, launched with the promise of seven years of updates and an industry-leading AI, seemed to be a long-term investment for consumers. The company’s partnership with iFixit hinted at a more consumer-friendly approach to device repairs.

    Samsung

    The dissolution of the Samsung-iFixit partnership, high component costs, and questionable terms in Samsung’s repair contracts have raised doubts about the company’s commitment to affordable and accessible repairs.

    On the other hand, Samsung has effectively implemented its five and seven-year update policies for older phones. The recent rollout of One UI 6.1 to older devices, equipped with the latest AI features, suggests that Samsung’s older flagships will continue to deliver a fresh user experience for years to come.

    This presents a contradictory scenario. While seven years of software support is commendable, the hardware of many devices may not last that long. Smartphone batteries, for instance, are known to degrade after about three years.

    The crux of the issue is that long-term software support necessitates long-term hardware support, which should not be hindered by restrictive terms or exorbitant costs. It’s disheartening to see Samsung potentially adopting an approach similar to Apple’s, which is often criticized for being anti-consumer.

    The prospect of expensive battery replacements or screen repairs could deter consumers from keeping their phones for seven years. If the repair process becomes too burdensome or costly, consumers are likely to opt for new devices, thereby raising the barrier to device longevity.

    It’s possible that companies like Apple and Samsung are intentionally making repairs difficult and costly to offset the expenses of long-term software support. However, this strategy could backfire if customers choose to avoid repairs altogether.

    Offering seven years of software updates while implementing restrictive and costly repair policies is counterproductive. It not only harms consumers but also undermines the companies’ environmental claims. Increased use of recycled packaging is insignificant if the production of new phones continues to outpace the repair of existing ones.

    The smartphone industry, including giants like Apple and Samsung, still has a long way to go in creating durable smartphones and reconciling profitability with the right-to-repair. Samsung’s recent setbacks suggest that the industry’s most significant environmental challenge remains unresolved.

  • AnTuTu’s May Rankings: Vivo X100s Leads with Dimensity 9300+

    AnTuTu’s May Rankings: Vivo X100s Leads with Dimensity 9300+

    AnTuTu, the renowned benchmarking platform, has unveiled its top-performing flagship smartphones for May. The list is dominated by the Vivo X100s, a new entrant equipped with MediaTek’s enhanced Dimensity 9300 Plus chipset. This chipset is an upgraded version of the standard Dimensity 9300, boasting superior AI capabilities and support for various LLMs, including Google’s Gemini Nano and Meta’s Llama 2 and 3.

    Vivo X100s

    Here is the complete list of AnTuTu’s top flagship smartphones for May 2024:

    1. Vivo X100s (MediaTek Dimensity 9300+) – 2,105,621
    2. OPPO Find X7 (MediaTek Dimensity 9300) – 2,094,528
    3. Red Magic 9 Pro+ (Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3) – 2,080,986
    4. iQOO 12 (Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3) – 2,079,919
    5. Vivo X100 Pro (MediaTek Dimensity 9300) – 2,045,717
    6. iQOO Neo 9S Pro (MediaTek Dimensity 9300+) – 2,043,384
    7. Vivo X100s Pro (MediaTek Dimensity 9300+) – 2,043,218
    8. Vivo X Fold 3 Pro (Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3) – 2,033,054
    9. iQOO 12 Pro (Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3) – 2,024,909
    10. Vivo X100 Ultra (Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3) – 2,024,787

    The second spot is occupied by the Oppo Find X7, powered by the Dimensity 9300. The third place is taken by the Red Magic 9 Pro+, the first Qualcomm device on the list, featuring the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. A notable inclusion is the iQOO Neo 9S Pro at the sixth position. Although iQOO’s Neo series typically targets mid-range gamers, the inclusion of a Dimensity 9300+ chip has propelled this device onto the list.

    Interestingly, the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro, the champion of April, is absent from this list. With the scores of all these devices being closely contested, the rankings for the upcoming month could see a reshuffle.

  • Oscal Pilot 2: Robust Dual-Screen Smartphone with Powerful Flashlight

    Oscal Pilot 2: Robust Dual-Screen Smartphone with Powerful Flashlight

    Blackview has launched its latest offering, the Oscal Pilot 2, a smartphone equipped with dual screens and dual LEDs, making it an ideal choice for challenging environments. Priced at $279.99, the Oscal Pilot 2 is available directly from the manufacturer and comes in three appealing colors: orange, black, and green.

    Oscal Pilot 2

    Designed to be rugged, the Oscal Pilot 2 is water-resistant and can withstand drops from heights of up to 1.2 meters without sustaining damage. It operates efficiently in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 60°C. The primary screen, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, spans 6.5 inches, boasts a 120 Hz refresh rate, and offers a resolution of 1080 x 2400. Additionally, a compact 1.3-inch display on the back provides notification alerts.

    The Oscal Pilot 2 is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 processor, typically found in budget-friendly smartphones, yet capable of handling most tasks efficiently. However, it lacks 5G connectivity. It offers 256 GB of internal storage, expandable with a memory card, and 8 GB of RAM.

    The smartphone features a 50-megapixel primary camera equipped with a Samsung Isocell GN5 sensor, along with an ultra-wide-angle camera. The flashlight is notably bright, offering a brightness of 170 lumens and a range extending up to 18 meters. The 8,800 mAh battery supports fast charging up to 45 watts. Despite its robust features, the Oscal Pilot 2 maintains a relatively compact form, weighing 368 grams and measuring 17 mm in thickness.

    For those interested in exploring other rugged smartphones from Blackview, they are available on Amazon. The Oscal Pilot 2, with its robust build and impressive features, serves as a dependable partner for outdoor adventures and demanding conditions.

  • Top 5 Smartphones with the Best Screens in 2024

    Top 5 Smartphones with the Best Screens in 2024

    In the realm of smartphones, the display is a key factor that significantly enhances the user experience. With the advent of technology, most flagship phones now boast top-tier displays, making it challenging to discern the best among them. This article highlights five smartphones with the most impressive screens in 2024, based on their specifications and comprehensive reviews.

    Samsung Galaxy

    Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: A Display Par Excellence

    The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra possibly has the finest screen among 2024 smartphones. Its 6.8-inch AMOLED display, with a resolution of 1440 x 3120 and approximately 505 pixels per inch, is a sight to behold. The screen’s brightness can reach up to 2,600 nits, and it features an ‘Extra Dim’ mode for color fidelity even at 1 nit. The use of Corning Gorilla Armor not only protects the display but also minimizes reflections.

    OnePlus 12: Brightness Beyond Compare

    The OnePlus 12 stands out with its exceptionally high peak brightness of 4,500 nits. Alongside this, it features a 6.82-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 3168 and around 510 pixels per inch. The OnePlus 12’s display is sharp, colorful, and competes well with the best.

    Google Pixel 8 Pro: Close Competition

    The Google Pixel 8 Pro features a 6.7-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 1344 x 2992, around 489 pixels per inch, and a peak brightness of 2,400 nits. Although not as large or bright as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s screen, it comes very close.

    iPhone 15 Pro Max: A Sumptuous Display

    The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers a beautiful 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1290 x 2796, around 460 pixels per inch, and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. Despite its specs not matching the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is a close competitor.

    Sony Xperia 1 V: A Unique Selling Proposition

    The Sony Xperia 1 V stands out with its 4K screen, offering a resolution of 1644 x 3840 and around 643 pixels per inch, making it one of the highest-resolution phones globally. Its 6.5-inch, 120Hz OLED display doesn’t have a notch or a punch-hole, providing an uninterrupted viewing experience.