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Apple Watch Series 8: Everything You Need to Know

Outline of the article
H1: Apple Watch Series 8: Everything You Need to Know
H2: What is Apple Watch Series 8?
H3: The latest and most advanced smartwatch from Apple
H3: The main features and specifications of Apple Watch Series 8
H2: Why should you buy Apple Watch Series 8?
H3: The benefits of Apple Watch Series 8 for your health and fitness
H3: The benefits of Apple Watch Series 8 for your safety and convenience
H3: The benefits of Apple Watch Series 8 for your style and personalization
H2: How to get the most out of your Apple Watch Series 8?
H3: How to set up and update your Apple Watch Series 8
H3: How to choose and customize your Apple Watch Series 8 bands, cases, and screen protectors
H3: How to charge and optimize the battery life of your Apple Watch Series 8
H3: How to use and download the best apps for your Apple Watch Series 8
H2: What are the drawbacks and limitations of Apple Watch Series 8?
H3: The disadvantages and challenges of Apple Watch Series 8 compared to other smartwatches
H3: The common problems and solutions of Apple Watch Series 8 users
H2: Conclusion
H3: A summary of the main points and recommendations of the article
H3: FAQs

Introduction

image: apple

If you are looking for a smartwatch that can help you stay healthy, connected, and productive, you might want to consider the Apple Watch Series 8. This is the latest and most advanced smartwatch from Apple, and it offers a range of features and benefits that make it a worthy investment. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Apple Watch Series 8, including what it is, why you should buy it, how to get the most out of it, and what are its drawbacks and limitations. By the end of this article, you will have a clear idea of whether the Apple Watch Series 8 is right for you or not.

What is Apple Watch Series 8?

The Apple Watch Series 8 is a smartwatch that was released by Apple in September 2022. It is the successor of the Apple Watch Series 7, which was launched in September 2021. The Apple Watch Series 8 is designed to be a companion device for your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, and it can sync with them via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular connectivity. The Apple Watch Series 8 can also work independently from your other devices, as long as you have a cellular plan for it.

The latest and most advanced smartwatch from Apple

The Apple Watch Series 8 is the latest and most advanced smartwatch from Apple, as it introduces several new features and improvements over its previous models. Some of these features include:

  • A larger and brighter Always-On Retina display that can reach up to 2000 nits of brightness, making it easier to read in bright sunlight.
  • A faster S9 SiP (System in Package) that enables faster performance, smoother animations, and more responsive Siri.
  • A double tap gesture that allows you to quickly access your favorite apps or functions without touching the screen.
  • A blood oxygen app that measures your blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels using an optical sensor on the back of the watch.
  • An ECG app that can record an electrocardiogram (ECG) using electrodes on the Digital Crown and the back of the watch.
  • A temperature sensing feature that can detect changes in your skin temperature using an infrared sensor on the back of the watch.
  • A cycle tracking feature that can estimate your ovulation date based on your menstrual cycle data.
  • A fall detection and crash detection feature that can automatically call emergency services if you fall or crash while wearing the watch.
  • A precision finding feature that can help you locate your iPhone using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology.

The main features and specifications of Apple Watch Series 8

The main features and specifications of the Apple Watch Series 8 are:

  • Display: A 45mm or 41mm Always-On Retina display with a resolution of 368 x 448 pixels or 324 x 394 pixels respectively.
  • Processor: An S9 SiP with a dual-core CPU, a quad-core GPU, a neural engine, a secure enclave, an ultra-wideband chip, an always-on processor, a power management unit, a storage controller, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a compass, a barometric altimeter, an ambient light sensor, a blood oxygen sensor, an ECG sensor, a temperature sensor, and a speaker.
  • Memory: 32GB of internal storage.
  • Battery: A lithium-ion battery that can last up to 18 hours of normal use, up to 36 hours in low power mode, and can be fast charged up to 80% in 45 minutes or 100% in 90 minutes.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz and 5GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou, and cellular (optional).
  • Water resistance: Water resistant up to 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with iPhone 6s or later running iOS 15 or later.
  • Colors: Available in aluminum or stainless steel cases with various colors and finishes, and a variety of bands and accessories.

Why should you buy Apple Watch Series 8?

The Apple Watch Series 8 is not just a smartwatch, but also a powerful device that can help you improve your health and fitness, enhance your safety and convenience, and express your style and personality. Here are some of the benefits of buying the Apple Watch Series 8:

The benefits of Apple Watch Series 8 for your health and fitness

The Apple Watch Series 8 is a great device for monitoring and improving your health and fitness, as it offers several features and apps that can help you:

  • Track your daily activity, exercise, and stand goals using the Activity app and the three rings on the watch face.
  • Measure your heart rate, blood oxygen level, ECG, temperature, and sleep quality using the Health app and the sensors on the watch.
  • Get personalized coaching, feedback, and encouragement to reach your fitness goals using the Fitness app and the Fitness+ subscription service (optional).
  • Choose from a variety of workouts, such as running, cycling, swimming, yoga, dance, HIIT, strength training, core training, mindful cooldowns, and more using the Workout app and the Fitness+ subscription service (optional).
  • Compete with your friends and family in activity challenges and earn badges and awards using the Sharing feature and the Awards app.
  • Join online classes and events with other Fitness+ subscribers using the Group Workouts feature (optional).
  • Sync your music, podcasts, audiobooks, and more with your watch using the Music app, the Podcasts app, the Audiobooks app, and other streaming services (optional).
  • Use Siri to control your music playback, set timers and reminders, ask questions, send messages, make calls, and more using your voice.

The benefits of Apple Watch Series 8 for your safety and convenience

The Apple Watch Series 8 is also a great device for enhancing your safety and convenience, as it offers several features and apps that can help you:

  • Stay connected with your contacts using the Phone app, the Messages app, the Mail app, the FaceTime app (audio only), and other communication apps (optional).
  • Access your notifications from your iPhone or other devices using the Notification Center on the watch face.
  • Use Apple Pay to make secure and contactless payments using the Wallet app and the NFC chip on the watch.
  • Unlock your iPhone or Mac without entering a passcode or password using the Unlock with Apple Watch feature.
  • Control your smart home devices using the Home app and Siri on the watch.
  • Find your iPhone or other Apple devices using the Find My app and the precision finding feature on the watch.
  • Get directions and navigation using the Maps app and Siri on the watch.
  • Check the weather forecast using the Weather app on the watch face or Siri on the watch.
  • Check the time in different cities using the World Clock app on the watch face or Siri on the watch.
  • Set alarms, timers, reminders, or events using the Alarms app, the Timer app, the Reminders app, the Calendar app or Siri on the watch.
  • Use shortcuts to automate tasks using the Shortcuts app or Siri on the watch.
  • Use widgets to access information at a glance using the Widget Gallery on the watch face.
  • Use complications to customize your watch face with information from your favorite apps.

The benefits of Apple Watch Series 8 for your style and personalization

The Apple Watch Series 8 is also a great device for expressing your style and personality, as it offers several features and options that can help you:

  • Choose from a variety of cases, bands, and accessories that suit your taste, mood, and occasion.
  • Switch between different watch faces that match your style, activity, or preference.
  • Create your own watch faces using photos, emojis, or custom designs.
  • Share your watch faces with your friends or download them from the App Store.
  • Use Memoji to create animated characters that look like you

How to get the most out of your Apple Watch Series 8?

The Apple Watch Series 8 is a versatile and powerful device that can do many things for you. However, to get the most out of it, you need to know how to set it up, customize it, charge it, and use it properly. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you optimize your Apple Watch Series 8 experience:

How to set up and update your Apple Watch Series 8

To set up your Apple Watch Series 8, you need to have an iPhone 6s or later running iOS 15 or later. You also need to have a Wi-Fi or cellular connection, and a compatible Apple ID. To set up your Apple Watch Series 8, follow these steps:

  • Turn on your iPhone and your Apple Watch Series 8 by pressing and holding the side button on the watch until you see the Apple logo.
  • Bring your iPhone close to your watch until you see a message on your iPhone asking you to use it to set up your watch.
  • Tap Continue on your iPhone and follow the instructions on the screen to pair your watch with your iPhone.
  • Choose a language and a region for your watch.
  • Agree to the terms and conditions for using your watch.
  • Sign in with your Apple ID and password on your iPhone.
  • Choose whether you want to enable or disable features such as Location Services, Siri, Find My, Analytics, Health, and Fitness.
  • Create a passcode for your watch and enter it on the watch screen.
  • Choose whether you want to unlock your watch with your iPhone or not.
  • Choose whether you want to set up cellular service for your watch or not (if you have a cellular model).
  • Choose whether you want to restore from a backup or set up as a new watch.
  • Wait for your watch to sync with your iPhone and download any apps or data that you need.
  • Start using your watch by pressing the Digital Crown to access the Home screen.

To update your Apple Watch Series 8, you need to have at least 50% battery life on your watch and your iPhone, and a Wi-Fi or cellular connection. To update your Apple Watch Series 8, follow these steps:

  • Open the Watch app on your iPhone and tap My Watch.
  • Tap General and then Software Update.
  • Tap Download and Install if there is an update available for your watch.
  • Enter your passcode if prompted and agree to the terms and conditions.
  • Wait for the update to download and install on your watch. Your watch will restart during the process.
  • Start using your watch with the latest software version.

How to choose and customize your Apple Watch Series 8 bands, cases, and screen protectors

One of the best things about the Apple Watch Series 8 is that you can choose from a variety of bands, cases, and screen protectors that suit your style, mood, and occasion. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you choose and customize your Apple Watch Series 8 accessories:

  • To change your band, press the band release button on the back of the case and slide the band out. Then, slide a new band in until you hear a click. Make sure the band is securely attached to the case before wearing your watch.
  • To change your case, you need to remove your band first. Then, use a small screwdriver to unscrew the four screws on the back of the case. Carefully lift off the case and replace it with a new one. Screw back the screws and attach your band again.
  • To apply a screen protector, you need to clean your screen first with a microfiber cloth. Then, peel off the protective film from one side of the screen protector and align it with the edges of your screen. Press down gently from one end to another to eliminate any bubbles. Peel off the protective film from the other side of the screen protector.

How to charge and optimize the battery life of your Apple Watch Series 8

The Apple Watch Series 8 has a lithium-ion battery that can last up to 18 hours of normal use, up to 36 hours in low power mode, and can be fast charged up to 80% in 45 minutes or 100% in 90 minutes. However, the battery life of your watch may vary depending on how you use it, what settings you have, and what apps you run. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you charge and optimize the battery life of your Apple Watch Series 8:

  • To charge your watch, you need to use the magnetic charging cable or the magnetic charging dock that came with your watch or that you bought separately. You can also use a compatible Qi wireless charger or a MagSafe charger. To charge your watch, follow these steps:
    • Plug the charging cable or dock into a power adapter or a USB port.
    • Align the back of your watch with the charger and make sure that it snaps into place. You should see a green lightning bolt icon on the watch face or hear a chime sound.
    • Wait for your watch to charge. You can check the battery level by swiping up on the watch face or by opening the Battery app on your watch or iPhone.
  • To optimize the battery life of your watch, you can do the following:
    • Adjust the brightness of your watch screen by swiping up on the watch face and tapping on the brightness icon. You can also use Siri to change the brightness by saying “Hey Siri, make my screen brighter” or “Hey Siri, make my screen dimmer”.
    • Turn off the Always-On display feature by opening the Settings app on your watch and tapping on Display & Brightness. Then, turn off the Always-On switch. You can also use Siri to turn off this feature by saying “Hey Siri, turn off Always-On display”.
    • Enable low power mode by swiping up on the watch face and tapping on the battery icon. Then, tap on Power Reserve and confirm. You can also use Siri to enable low power mode by saying “Hey Siri, turn on low power mode”. This will reduce the functionality of your watch to only show the time and date.
    • Disable unnecessary notifications by opening the Watch app on your iPhone and tapping on Notifications. Then, turn off the notifications for the apps that you don’t need.
    • Close any apps that you are not using by pressing and holding the side button until you see a list of apps. Then, swipe left on any app that you want to close and tap on Remove.
    • Turn off Wi-Fi and cellular when you don’t need them by swiping up on the watch face and tapping on the Wi-Fi or cellular icon. You can also use Siri to turn off these features by saying “Hey Siri, turn off Wi-Fi” or “Hey Siri, turn off cellular”.

How to use and download the best apps for your Apple Watch Series 8

The Apple Watch Series 8 is not only a device that can track your health and fitness, but also a device that can run various apps that can enhance your productivity, entertainment, education, and more. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you use and download the best apps for your Apple Watch Series 8:

  • To use an app on your watch, you can do the following:
    • Press the Digital Crown to access the Home screen and tap on the app icon that you want to open.
    • Swipe left or right on the watch face to switch between different watch faces that have complications from your favorite apps.
    • Double tap on the side button to access your most recently used app.
    • Raise your wrist and say “Hey Siri, open [app name]” to launch an app using your voice.
  • To download an app on your watch, you can do the following:
    • Open the App Store app on your watch and browse or search for the app that you want to download. Then, tap on the Get button and enter your passcode or use Apple Pay to confirm.
    • Open the Watch app on your iPhone and tap on App Store. Then, browse or search for the app that you want to download and tap on Get. You may need to enter your Apple ID password or use Face ID or Touch ID to confirm.
    • Open the App Store app on your iPhone and look for apps that have a watch icon next to them. Then, tap on Get and confirm. The app will automatically install on your watch if it is compatible.
  • To delete an app on your watch, you can do the following:
    • Press and hold the app icon on the Home screen until it jiggles. Then, tap on the X button and confirm.
    • Open the Watch app on your iPhone and tap on My Watch. Then, scroll down to the Installed on Apple Watch section and tap on the app that you want to delete. Then, turn off the Show App on Apple Watch switch and confirm.

Some of the best apps that you can use and download for your Apple Watch Series 8 are:

  • Spotify: A music streaming service that lets you listen to millions of songs, podcasts, playlists, and more. You can control your playback, browse your library, download music for offline listening, and stream music to other devices using Spotify Connect.
  • Strava: A fitness tracking app that lets you record your runs, rides, swims, hikes, and more. You can view your stats, maps, splits, segments, achievements, and more. You can also join challenges, clubs, and events with other Strava users.
  • Shazam: A music recognition app that lets you identify any song that is playing around you. You can also view lyrics, artist information, playlists, and more. You can also sync your Shazams with your Apple Music or Spotify account.
  • Calculator: A simple but useful app that lets you perform basic calculations on your watch. You can also use Siri to do calculations by saying “Hey Siri, what is [expression]?” You can also use the tip calculator feature to split bills and calculate tips.
  • Carrot Weather: A humorous but accurate weather app that gives you detailed forecasts, alerts, widgets, complications, and more. You can also enjoy the witty comments and jokes from Carrot, the sarcastic AI that powers the app.
  • Fantastical: A calendar and reminder app that lets you manage your events and tasks on your watch. You can also use Siri to create new events or reminders by saying “Hey Siri, add [event] or remind me [task]”. You can also view your schedule, maps, weather, and more.

What are the drawbacks and limitations of Apple Watch Series 8?

The Apple Watch Series 8 is a remarkable device that can do many things for you, but it is not perfect. It also has some drawbacks and limitations that you should be aware of before buying it. Here are some of the disadvantages and challenges of the Apple Watch Series 8 compared to other smartwatches:

The disadvantages and challenges of Apple Watch Series 8 compared to other smartwatches

The Apple Watch Series 8 is one of the most popular and advanced smartwatches in the market, but it also faces some competition from other brands and models. Some of the disadvantages and challenges of the Apple Watch Series 8 compared to other smartwatches are:

  • The price: The Apple Watch Series 8 is one of the most expensive smartwatches in the market, ranging from $399 to $799 depending on the size, material, and cellular option. This is much higher than other smartwatches such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, which starts from $249, or the Fitbit Versa 3, which starts from $199.
  • The compatibility: The Apple Watch Series 8 is only compatible with iPhones running iOS 15 or later, which means that you cannot use it with Android phones or other devices. This limits your choices and flexibility if you want to switch to a different phone or platform in the future.
  • The battery life: The Apple Watch Series 8 has a battery life of up to 18 hours of normal use, which is decent but not impressive compared to other smartwatches that can last for days or even weeks on a single charge. For example, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has a battery life of up to 40 hours, and the Fitbit Versa 3 has a battery life of up to 6 days.
  • The design: The Apple Watch Series 8 has a sleek and elegant design, but it also has a similar look and shape to its previous models. Some people may find it boring or outdated compared to other smartwatches that have more variety and innovation in their design. For example, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has a circular display and a rotating bezel, and the Fitbit Versa 3 has a square display and a side button.

The common problems and solutions of Apple Watch Series 8 users

The Apple Watch Series 8 is a reliable and durable device, but it may also encounter some problems or issues from time to time. Some of the common problems and solutions of Apple Watch Series 8 users are:

  • The watch is not pairing or syncing with the iPhone: This may happen if your watch or iPhone is out of range, low on battery, in airplane mode, or not updated. To fix this problem, you can do the following:
    • Make sure that your watch and iPhone are close to each other, charged, connected to Wi-Fi or cellular, and updated to the latest software version.
    • Restart your watch by pressing and holding the side button until you see the power off slider. Then, slide it to turn off your watch and press and hold the side button again to turn it on.
    • Restart your iPhone by pressing and holding the power button until you see the power off slider. Then, slide it to turn off your iPhone and press and hold the power button again to turn it on.
    • Unpair your watch from your iPhone by opening the Watch app on your iPhone and tapping on My Watch. Then, tap on your watch name at the top of the screen and tap on the i icon next to it. Then, tap on Unpair Apple Watch and confirm. Then, pair your watch with your iPhone again by following the steps in the How to set up your Apple Watch section above.
  • The watch is not charging or holding a charge: This may happen if your charger or cable is damaged, dirty, or incompatible, or if your watch is exposed to extreme temperatures or moisture. To fix this problem, you can do the following:
    • Make sure that you are using an original or certified Apple charger or cable that came with your watch or that you bought separately. Do not use any third-party or counterfeit chargers or cables that may damage your watch or cause safety issues.
    • Make sure that your charger or cable is clean and free of any debris or dust that may interfere with the charging process. You can use a soft cloth or a cotton swab to gently wipe them.
    • Make sure that your charger or cable is securely plugged into a power adapter or a USB port that is working properly. You can try using a different power adapter or USB port if possible.
    • Make sure that your watch is aligned with the charger and that it snaps into place. You should see a green lightning bolt icon on the watch face or hear a chime sound when your watch is charging.
    • Make sure that your watch is not exposed to extreme temperatures or moisture that may affect the battery performance. You can check the temperature and humidity levels of your environment using the Weather app or Siri on your watch. You can also remove your watch from your wrist and let it cool down or dry off if needed.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 8 is a remarkable device that can help you stay healthy, connected, and productive. It offers a range of features and benefits that make it a worthy investment. However, it also has some drawbacks and limitations that you should be aware of before buying it. In this article, we have told you everything you need to know about the Apple Watch Series 8, including what it is, why you should buy it, how to get the most out of it, and what are its disadvantages and challenges. We hope that this article has helped you decide whether the Apple Watch Series 8 is right for you or not.

How much does the Apple Watch Series 8 cost?

The Apple Watch Series 8 costs $399 for the 41mm aluminum case with GPS, $429 for the 41mm aluminum case with GPS + Cellular, $449 for the 45mm aluminum case with GPS, and $479 for the 45mm aluminum case with GPS + Cellular. The stainless steel cases cost $699 for the 41mm size and $749 for the 45mm size. The prices may vary depending on the band and accessory options.

What are the differences between the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch Series 7?

The main differences between the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch Series 7 are:– The Apple Watch Series 8 has a larger and brighter Always-On Retina display that can reach up to 2000 nits of brightness. – The Apple Watch Series 8 has a faster S9 SiP that enables faster performance, smoother animations, and more responsive Siri. – The Apple Watch Series 8 has a double tap gesture that allows you to quickly access your favorite apps or functions without touching the screen. – The Apple Watch Series 8 has a blood oxygen app, an ECG app, a temperature sensing feature, a cycle tracking feature, a fall detection and crash detection feature, and a precision finding feature that are not available on the Apple Watch Series 7.

How can I change the watch face on my Apple Watch Series 8?

You can change the watch face on your Apple Watch Series 8 by doing the following:– Swipe left or right on the watch face to switch between different watch faces that you have already added. – Press and hold the watch face until you see a Customize button. Then, tap on it and use the Digital Crown or your finger to change the style, color, complications, or widgets of your watch face. Then, press the Digital Crown to save your changes. – Press and hold the watch face until you see an Edit button. Then, tap on it and swipe left or right to browse different watch faces that you can add. Then, tap on Add or tap on a watch face to select it. You can also use Siri to change your watch face by saying “Hey Siri, change my watch face to [watch face name].”

How can I share my activity data with my friends on my Apple Watch Series 8?

You can share your activity data with your friends on your Apple Watch Series 8 by doing the following:– Open the Activity app on your watch and swipe left until you see a Sharing screen. Then, tap on Add Friends and choose one or more contacts from your iPhone that you want to share your activity data with. You may need to send them an invitation first if they are not using an Apple Watch. – Once they accept your invitation, you can see their activity data on your watch by swiping left on the Sharing screen. You can also send them messages, emojis, or voice memos by tapping on their name and then tapping on Send Message. – You can also compete with them in activity challenges by tapping on their name and then tapping on Compete. You can earn points by closing your rings and win badges and awards by beating them.

How can I use Siri on my Apple Watch Series 8?

You can use Siri on your Apple Watch Series 8 by doing one of the following:– Raise your wrist and say “Hey Siri” followed by your question or command. – Press and hold the Digital Crown until you see a Siri screen or hear a beep sound. Then, say your question or command. – Tap on a complication or widget that has a Siri icon or text. Then, say your question or command.

Apple Watch Series 8: Everything You Need to Know Read More »

Google AI announces new AI chips for Pixel phones and laptops

Google has recently unveiled its new AI chips that are designed to power its Pixel phones and laptops, as well as other AI applications. These chips are called Google Tensor, and they are the result of Google’s own research and development in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

What is Google Tensor?

Google Tensor is a custom system-on-chip (SoC) that integrates various components such as CPU, GPU, memory, and AI accelerators. It is optimized for running Google’s software and services, such as Google Photos, Google Assistant, Google Translate, and more. Google Tensor is also capable of performing advanced tasks such as natural language processing, computer vision, speech recognition, and generative models.

Why did Google create its own AI chip?

Google has been a pioneer in AI research and innovation for many years. It has developed some of the most popular and powerful AI frameworks and tools, such as TensorFlow, Google Cloud AI Platform, Google Colab, and more. However, Google realized that the existing hardware solutions were not able to keep up with the increasing demands and complexity of AI applications. Therefore, Google decided to create its own AI chip that would offer better performance, efficiency, and flexibility for its products and users.

How does Google Tensor compare to other AI chips?

Google Tensor is not the first AI chip in the market. There are many other companies that have developed or are developing their own AI chips, such as Apple, Samsung, Huawei, Qualcomm, Nvidia, Intel, AMD, and more. Each of these chips has its own strengths and weaknesses, depending on the design choices and trade-offs made by the developers.

However, Google claims that its Tensor chip is superior to other AI chips in several aspects. For example:

  • Google Tensor can run multiple AI models simultaneously on different parts of the chip, which enables faster and smoother multitasking.
  • Google Tensor can dynamically adjust the power consumption and performance of the chip according to the workload and user preferences, which improves battery life and user experience.
  • Google Tensor can leverage Google’s vast data and expertise in AI to optimize the chip for specific tasks and scenarios, which enhances accuracy and functionality.

What are the benefits of Google Tensor for Pixel phones?

Google Tensor is the main feature of the new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro phones that were announced in October 2023. These phones are expected to be released in November 2023. By using Google Tensor as the core processor of these phones, Google aims to provide a number of benefits for Pixel users. For example:

  • Pixel users can enjoy faster and more reliable performance of various Google apps and services on their phones, such as Google Photos, Google Assistant, Google Translate, and more.
  • Pixel users can access new and exclusive features that are powered by Google Tensor, such as Magic Eraser (which can remove unwanted objects from photos), Voice Typing (which can transcribe speech into text in real time), Face Unblur (which can sharpen blurry faces in photos), Live Translate (which can translate speech and text across languages), and more.
  • Pixel users can experience better camera quality and capabilities with Google Tensor, such as improved low-light photography, enhanced portrait mode, ultra-wide lens distortion correction, optical zoom up to 4x (for Pixel 6 Pro), video stabilization, HDR+, Night Sight, and more.
  • Pixel users can have more privacy and security with Google Tensor, as the chip can encrypt and process sensitive data locally on the device without sending it to the cloud or third parties.

What are the benefits of Google Tensor for laptops?

Google Tensor is not only limited to Pixel phones. It is also expected to be used in future laptops that run on Chrome OS or Windows 10. By using Google Tensor as the core processor of these laptops, Google aims to provide a number of benefits for laptop users. For example:

  • Laptop users can enjoy faster and more seamless performance of various web-based applications and services on their laptops, such as Gmail, YouTube, Google Docs, Google Drive, Netflix, Spotify, Zoom, Slack, and more.
  • Laptop users can access new and improved features that are powered by Google Tensor, such as Instant Tethering (which can automatically connect the laptop to the phone’s internet connection), Smart Lock (which can unlock the laptop with the phone’s fingerprint or face recognition), Ambient EQ (which can adjust the screen brightness and color temperature according to the ambient light), Adaptive Sound (which can optimize the speaker volume and quality according to the environment), Battery Saver (which can extend the battery life by reducing background activity), Fast Pair (which can quickly connect Bluetooth devices to the laptop), and more.
  • Laptop users can experience better graphics quality and capabilities with Google Tensor, such as higher resolution, smoother frame rate, more realistic lighting and shadows, more detailed textures, and support for ray tracing (which can simulate how light interacts with objects in a scene).
  • Laptop users can have more privacy and security with Google Tensor, as the chip can encrypt and process sensitive data locally on the device without sending it to the cloud or third parties.

How to get Google Tensor?

Google Tensor is currently only available in the new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro phones that were announced in October 2023. These phones are expected to be released in November 2023. You can pre-order these phones from Google’s official website or from various online and offline retailers. The prices of these phones are as follows:

  • Pixel 6: $699 for 128GB storage, $799 for 256GB storage
  • Pixel 6 Pro: $899 for 128GB storage, $999 for 256GB storage, $1099 for 512GB storage

Google Tensor is also expected to be used in future laptops that run on Chrome OS or Windows 10. However, there is no official announcement or confirmation from Google about when these laptops will be launched or how much they will cost. You can stay tuned to Google’s blog or social media channels for any updates or news about these laptops.

Conclusion

Google Tensor is a new AI chip that is designed to power Google’s Pixel phones and laptops, as well as other AI applications. It is optimized for running Google’s software and services, such as Google Photos, Google Assistant, Google Translate, and more. It is also capable of performing advanced tasks such as natural language processing, computer vision, speech recognition, and generative models.

Google Tensor offers better performance, efficiency, and flexibility than other AI chips in the market. It can run multiple AI models simultaneously on different parts of the chip, dynamically adjust the power consumption and performance of the chip according to the workload and user preferences, and leverage Google’s vast data and expertise in AI to optimize the chip for specific tasks and scenarios.

Google Tensor provides a number of benefits for Pixel users and laptop users. It enables faster and more reliable performance of various Google apps and services on their devices, access to new and exclusive features that are powered by Google Tensor, better camera quality and capabilities with Google Tensor, and more privacy and security with Google Tensor.

Google Tensor is currently only available in the new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro phones that were announced in October 2023. These phones are expected to be released in November 2023. You can pre-order these phones from Google’s official website or from various online and offline retailers. Google Tensor is also expected to be used in future laptops that run on Chrome OS or Windows 10. However, there is no official announcement or confirmation from Google about when these laptops will be launched or how much they will cost.

Google Tensor is a revolutionary AI chip that aims to transform the way we use our devices and interact with technology. It is a testament to Google’s innovation and leadership in AI research and development. It is a game-changer for the smartphone and laptop industry. It is a must-have for anyone who wants to enjoy the best of Google’s AI capabilities on their devices.

FAQs

What are some of the new features that are powered by Google Tensor on Pixel phones?

Some of the new features that are powered by Google Tensor on Pixel phones are Magic Eraser (which can remove unwanted objects from photos), Voice Typing (which can transcribe speech into text in real time), Face Unblur (which can sharpen blurry faces in photos), Live Translate (which can translate speech and text across languages), and more.

How does Google Tensor compare to Apple’s A15 Bionic chip?

Apple’s A15 Bionic chip is another AI chip that is used in Apple’s iPhone 13 series. It is also a custom system-on-chip (SoC) that integrates various components such as CPU, GPU, memory, and AI accelerators. It is optimized for running Apple’s software and services, such as iOS, Siri, FaceTime, iMessage, Apple Music, Apple TV+, and more. It is also capable of performing advanced tasks such as natural language processing, computer vision, speech recognition, and generative models.However, there are some differences between Google Tensor and Apple’s A15 Bionic chip. For example:– Google Tensor can run multiple AI models simultaneously on different parts of the chip, while Apple’s A15 Bionic chip can only run one AI model at a time on its Neural Engine. – Google Tensor can dynamically adjust the power consumption and performance of the chip according to the workload and user preferences, while Apple’s A15 Bionic chip has a fixed power consumption and performance level. – Google Tensor can leverage Google’s vast data and expertise in AI to optimize the chip for specific tasks and scenarios, while Apple’s A15 Bionic chip relies on Apple’s own data and expertise in AI.

How does Google Tensor improve battery life on Pixel phones?

Google Tensor improves battery life on Pixel phones by dynamically adjusting the power consumption and performance of the chip according to the workload and user preferences, which improves battery life and user experience. For example, when the user is using a low-power mode or a battery saver mode, Google Tensor can reduce the clock speed and voltage of the chip to save energy. When the user is using a high-performance mode or a gaming mode, Google Tensor can increase the clock speed and voltage of the chip to boost performance. Google Tensor can also switch between different cores of the chip depending on the task complexity and intensity. For example, when the user is doing simple tasks such as browsing the web or checking emails, Google Tensor can use the low-power cores of the chip to conserve energy. When the user is doing complex tasks such as editing photos or videos, Google Tensor can use the high-performance cores of the chip to deliver speed.

How does Google Tensor support machine learning and artificial intelligence on Pixel phones?

Google Tensor supports machine learning and artificial intelligence on Pixel phones by providing a dedicated AI accelerator that can run various AI models efficiently and effectively. The AI accelerator is a specialized hardware unit that can perform complex mathematical operations and computations that are required for AI applications. The AI accelerator can run multiple AI models simultaneously on different parts of the chip, which enables faster and smoother multitasking. The AI accelerator can also leverage Google’s vast data and expertise in AI to optimize the chip for specific tasks and scenarios, which enhances accuracy and functionality.

How does Google Tensor enhance camera quality and capabilities on Pixel phones?

Google Tensor enhances camera quality and capabilities on Pixel phones by using advanced computer vision algorithms and techniques that can process and improve the images and videos captured by the camera. The computer vision algorithms and techniques are powered by Google Tensor’s AI accelerator, which can run multiple AI models simultaneously on different parts of the chip, enabling faster and smoother processing. Some of the computer vision algorithms and techniques used by Google Tensor include improved low-light photography, enhanced portrait mode, ultra-wide lens distortion correction, optical zoom up to 4x (for Pixel 6 Pro), video stabilization, and Night Sight for low-light conditions.

Google AI announces new AI chips for Pixel phones and laptops Read More »

Text to Video AI Generators: How They Work and Why You Need Them

Table Of Contents
: Introduction
– What are text to video AI generators and what can they do?
– How are they different from traditional video creation and editing tools?
– What are the benefits of using text to video AI generators for various purposes?
How Text to Video AI Generators Work
– What are the main components of text to video AI generators?
– How do they use natural language processing, computer vision, and deep learning to convert text into video?
– What are some of the challenges and limitations of text to video AI generation?
The Best Text to Video AI Generators in 2023
– What are the features and pricing of some of the best text to video AI generators in 2023?
– How do they compare and contrast with each other?
– What are some of the use cases and examples of text to video AI generation by these tools?
Pika Labs
Synthesia
Lumen5
Invideo
Pictory
Descript
RunwayML
Peech
Steve.AI
Elai.io
Visla
Opus Clip
Conclusion

Introduction

Have you ever wished you could turn your text into a captivating video with just a few clicks? If so, you are not alone. Video is one of the most powerful and engaging forms of content on the internet, and it can help you reach a wider audience, increase your conversions, and boost your brand awareness. However, creating high-quality videos can be time-consuming, expensive, and complicated, especially if you don’t have the skills or resources to do it yourself.

That’s where text to video AI generators come in handy. These are tools that use artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically convert your text into a stunning video with visuals, audio, animations, and effects. You don’t need any prior experience or expertise in video production or editing. All you need is your text and a few minutes of your time.

Text to video AI generators are different from traditional video creation and editing tools in several ways. First, they use natural language processing (NLP) to understand the meaning and context of your text, and then generate relevant images, videos, icons, and texts from a large database. Second, they use computer vision and deep learning to analyze the visual content and create realistic scenes, transitions, and movements. Third, they use text-to-speech (TTS) or speech synthesis to produce natural-sounding voiceovers or music for your video.

Text to video AI generators have many benefits for various purposes. For example, you can use them to:

  • Create engaging social media posts, stories, ads, and reels
  • Make informative presentations, tutorials, explainer videos, and demos
  • Produce educational content, courses, lectures, and lessons
  • Generate entertaining content, stories, jokes, and memes
  • Showcase your products, services, testimonials, and reviews
  • Convert your blog posts, articles, podcasts, and ebooks into videos
  • And much more!

In this article, we will show you how text to video AI generators work and why you need them. We will also review some of the best text to video AI generators in 2023 that you can use to create amazing videos in minutes.

How Text to Video AI Generators Work

Text to video AI generators are composed of three main components: NLP, computer vision, and deep learning.

NLP is the branch of AI that deals with analyzing and generating natural language. It enables text to video AI generators to understand the meaning and context of your text input, extract keywords and topics, identify the tone and sentiment, and generate relevant output.

Computer vision is the branch of AI that deals with processing and understanding visual information. It enables text to video AI generators to analyze the images, videos, icons, and texts that match your input, select the best ones based on quality and relevance, and create realistic scenes with transitions and movements.

Deep learning is the branch of AI that uses neural networks to learn from data and perform complex tasks. It enables text to video AI generators to synthesize natural-sounding voiceovers or music for your video, adjust the speed, pitch, and volume, and add effects and emotions.

Text to video AI generation is not a simple task. It requires a lot of data, computation, and creativity. There are also some challenges and limitations that text to video AI generators face, such as:

  • Maintaining coherence and consistency throughout the video
  • Handling ambiguity, sarcasm, and humor in the text input
  • Dealing with different languages, dialects, and accents
  • Ensuring accuracy, quality, and originality of the output
  • Respecting the privacy, security, and ethics of the users and the content

Despite these challenges and limitations, text to video AI generators are constantly improving and evolving, thanks to the advances in AI research and development. They are becoming more capable, reliable, and user-friendly, and they offer a lot of potential for creating amazing videos in minutes.

The Best Text to Video AI Generators in 2023

There are many text to video AI generators available in the market today, each with its own features, pricing, and use cases. Here are some of the best text to video AI generators in 2023 that you can use to create stunning videos from your text:

Pika Labs

Pika Labs is a text to video AI generator that lets you create professional-looking videos from your text in minutes. You can use it to create videos for social media, marketing, education, entertainment, and more. You can choose from hundreds of templates, styles, fonts, colors, and music tracks, or customize your own. You can also add your own images, videos, logos, and voiceovers. Pika Labs uses advanced NLP and computer vision to generate relevant and realistic visuals for your text. You can preview your video before downloading it in HD quality. Pika Labs offers a free plan with limited features and a watermark on your videos. You can upgrade to a premium plan for more features and no watermark.

Synthesia

Synthesia is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with synthetic humans that speak your text. You can use it to create videos for presentations, training, sales, ads, and more. You can choose from over 100 synthetic actors with different languages, accents, genders, and ethnicities. You can also upload your own photos or videos and turn them into synthetic actors. Synthesia uses deep learning to synthesize realistic voiceovers and facial expressions for your synthetic actors. You can edit your video with simple tools and download it in HD quality. Synthesia offers a pay-as-you-go plan with credits that you can use to create videos. You can also get a subscription plan for unlimited videos.

Lumen5

Lumen5 is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos from your blog posts, articles, podcasts, or any other text content. You can use it to create videos for content marketing, social media, education, storytelling, and more. You can paste your text or URL into Lumen5 and it will automatically generate a storyboard with relevant images, videos, icons, texts, and music. You can edit your storyboard with drag-and-drop tools and add your own branding elements. Lumen5 uses NLP and computer vision to generate engaging and informative videos for your text. You can download your video in various formats and resolutions or share it directly to social media platforms. Lumen5 offers a free plan with limited features and a watermark on your videos. You can upgrade to a paid plan for more features and no watermark.

Invideo

Invideo is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos from your text in minutes. You can use it to create videos for ads, testimonials, reviews, newsletters, invitations, announcements, and more. You can choose from over 4000 templates or start from scratch. You can also upload your own media files or use the stock library of over 10 million images, videos, and music tracks. Invideo uses NLP and computer vision to generate attractive and relevant visuals for your text. You can edit your video with easy-to-use tools and add effects, transitions, filters, and stickers. Invideo offers a free plan with limited features and a watermark on your videos. You can upgrade to a premium plan for more features and no watermark.

Pictory

Pictory is a text to video AI generator that lets you create short videos from your long-form content. You can use it to create videos for summaries, highlights, stories, and more. You can paste your content or URL into Pictory and it will automatically extract the key points and generate a script with relevant images, videos, texts, and voiceovers. You can edit your script with simple tools and add your own branding

elements. Pictory uses NLP and computer vision to generate concise and captivating videos from your content. You can download your video in MP4 format or share it directly to social media platforms. Pictory offers a free plan with limited features and a watermark on your videos. You can upgrade to a paid plan for more features and no watermark.

Descript

Descript is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos from your audio or video recordings. You can use it to create videos for podcasts, interviews, documentaries, and more. You can upload your audio or video file into Descript and it will automatically transcribe it into text. You can edit your text with word processing tools and it will reflect on your audio or video. Descript uses deep learning to synthesize realistic voiceovers and lip sync for your video. You can also add images, videos, texts, music, and effects to your video. Descript offers a free plan with limited features and a watermark on your videos. You can upgrade to a pro plan for more features and no watermark.

RunwayML

RunwayML is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with generative models. You can use it to create videos for art, design, animation, and more. You can choose from various models that can generate images, videos, texts, sounds, and styles from your text input. You can also train your own models or use models from other creators. RunwayML uses deep learning to generate realistic and creative visuals for your text. You can edit your video with intuitive tools and export it in various formats and resolutions. RunwayML offers a free plan with limited features and credits that you can use to create videos. You can upgrade to a paid plan for more features and credits.

Peech

Peech is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with animated characters that speak your text. You can use it to create videos for stories, games, education, entertainment, and more. You can choose from over 100 animated characters with different personalities, emotions, and expressions. You can also customize their appearance, voice, background, and accessories. Peech uses NLP and deep learning to generate natural-sounding voiceovers and facial animations for your characters. You can edit your video with simple tools and download it in MP4 format or share it directly to social media platforms. Peech offers a free plan with limited features and a watermark on your videos. You can upgrade to a paid plan for more features and no watermark.

Steve.AI

Steve.AI is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with 3D avatars that speak your text. You can use it to create videos for presentations, training, sales, ads, and more. You can choose from over 50 3D avatars with different languages, accents, genders, and ethnicities. You can also upload your own photos or videos and turn them into 3D avatars. Steve.AI uses deep learning to synthesize realistic voiceovers and body animations for your avatars. You can edit your video with easy-to-use tools and download it in HD quality or share it directly to social media platforms. Steve.AI offers a pay-as-you-go plan with credits that you can use to create videos.

Elai.io

Elai.io is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with AI-generated faces that speak your text. You can use it to create videos for ads, testimonials, reviews, newsletters, invitations, announcements, and more. You can choose from over 100 AI-generated faces with different languages, accents, genders, and ethnicities. You can also upload your own photos or videos and turn them into AI-generated faces. Elai.io uses deep learning to synthesize realistic voiceovers and facial expressions for your faces. You can edit your video with simple tools and download it in HD quality or share it directly to social media platforms. Elai.io offers a free plan with limited features and a watermark on your videos. You can upgrade to a premium plan for more features and no watermark.

Visla

Visla is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with AI-generated scenes that match your text. You can use it to create videos for stories, games, education, entertainment, and more. You can type or paste your text into Visla and it will automatically generate a storyboard with relevant images, videos, texts, and voiceovers. You can edit your storyboard with drag-and-drop tools and add your own branding elements. Visla uses NLP and computer vision to generate engaging and immersive videos for your text. You can download your video in various formats and resolutions or share it directly to social media platforms. Visla offers a free plan with limited features and a watermark on your videos. You can upgrade to a paid plan for more features and no watermark.

Opus Clip

Opus Clip is a text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with AI-generated music that suits your text. You can use it to create videos for music, lyrics, poems, and more. You can type or paste your text into Opus Clip and it will automatically generate a music track with relevant instruments, genres, moods, and tempos. You can edit your music track with simple tools and add your own vocals, images, videos, texts, and effects. Opus Clip uses NLP and deep learning to generate original and harmonious music for your text. You can download your video in MP3 or MP4 format or share it directly to social media platforms. Opus Clip offers a free plan with limited features and a watermark on your videos. You can upgrade to a paid plan for more features and no watermark.

Conclusion

Text to video AI generators are amazing tools that can help you create stunning videos from your text in minutes. They use artificial intelligence to automatically convert your text into a video with visuals, audio, animations, and effects. They are different from traditional video creation and editing tools in several ways. They have many benefits for various purposes, such as social media, marketing, education, entertainment, and more.

In this article, we have shown you how text to video AI generators work and why you need them. We have also reviewed some of the best text to video AI generators in 2023 that you can use to create amazing videos from your text. These are:

  • Pika Labs: A text to video AI generator that lets you create professional-looking videos from your text in minutes.
  • Synthesia: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with synthetic humans that speak your text.
  • Lumen5: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos from your blog posts, articles, podcasts, or any other text content.
  • Invideo: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos from your text in minutes.
  • Pictory: A text to video AI generator that lets you create short videos from your long-form content.
  • Descript: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos from your audio or video recordings.
  • RunwayML: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with generative models.
  • Peech: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with animated characters that speak your text.
  • Steve.AI: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with 3D avatars that speak your text.
  • Elai.io: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with AI-generated faces that speak your text.
  • Visla: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with AI-generated scenes that match your text.
  • Opus Clip: A text to video AI generator that lets you create videos with AI-generated music that suits your text.

We hope you have enjoyed this article and learned something new. If you want to try out these text to video AI generators for yourself, you can visit their websites and sign up for their free or paid plans. You can also check out some of the internal links we have provided for more information and examples of text to video AI generation.

We would love to hear your feedback and comments on this article. What do you think of text to video AI generators? Have you used any of them before? Which one is your favorite and why? How do you use them for your purposes? Please share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comment section below.

Thank you for reading and happy video creation!

Text to Video AI Generators: How They Work and Why You Need Them Read More »

Apple iPad Air (2023) Review: A Powerful and Versatile Tablet

Outline of the article
Apple iPad Air (2023) Review: A Powerful and Versatile Tablet
Introduction
– Brief overview of the iPad Air (2023) and its main features
-Price, availability, and colors of the iPad Air (2023)
– Review
Design and Display
– Design and dimensions of the iPad Air (2023)
– Comparision Of the iPad Air (2023) with the previous iPad Air (2022) and the iPad Pro (2023)
– 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and its quality, brightness, and color accuracy
– Touch ID sensor on the top button and its convenience
Performance and Battery Life
– The M1 chip and its advantages for speed, multitasking, and graphics
– iPad Air (2023) with other tablets in terms of benchmarks and real-world performance
– storage options and RAM of the iPad Air (2023)
– Evaluate the battery life and charging speed of the iPad Air (2023)
Cameras and Audio
– 12MP rear camera and its features, such as Smart HDR, 4K video recording, and slow-motion
– 12MP ultra-wide front camera and its features, such as Center Stage, FaceTime HD, and Animoji
– Assess the quality of photos and videos taken with the iPad Air (2023)
– stereo speakers and their sound quality
Accessories and Connectivity
– second-generation Apple Pencil and its features, such as magnetic attachment, wireless charging, and double-tap gesture
-the Magic Keyboard and its features, such as backlit keys, trackpad, and floating design
– accessories that are compatible with the iPad Air (2023), such as Smart Folio, Smart Keyboard Folio, and USB-C accessories
– USB-C port with Thunderbolt support and its benefits for data transfer, external display, and power delivery
– Wi-Fi 6 and LTE options of the iPad Air (2023)
Software and User Experience
– iPadOS 15 operating system and its features, such as widgets, app library, multitasking, universal control, quick note, translate, focus mode, and face time
– Mention some of the apps that are optimized for the iPad Air (2023), such as Safari, Pages, Numbers, Keynote, GarageBand, iMovie, Procreate, Photoshop, LumaFusion, Affinity Photo, Affinity Designer, Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader etc.
– user experience of using the iPad Air (2023) for different purposes, such as browsing, gaming,Writing, editing, and proofreading the article based on the outline

Introduction

Are you looking for a tablet that can handle your work, play, and creativity needs? Do you want a device that is sleek, fast, and feature-rich? If so, you might want to check out the Apple iPad Air (2023), the latest addition to the iPad family.

The iPad Air (2023) is a new tablet from Apple that was announced in October 2023 and is expected to be available in November 2023. It features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, an M1 chip, a 12MP rear camera, a 12MP ultra-wide front camera with Center Stage, and a USB-C port with Thunderbolt support. It also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard. The iPad Air (2023) comes in five colors: silver, space gray, starlight, green, and sky blue.

In this review, we will take a closer look at the design, performance, cameras, accessories, software, and user experience of the iPad Air (2023). We will also compare it with some of its competitors and predecessors, such as the iPad Air (2022), the iPad Pro (2023), and the iPad mini (2023). We will also share our verdict on whether the iPad Air (2023) is worth buying or not.

Apple iPad Air (2023) First Impressions

The iPad Air (2023) is the latest model in Apple’s mid-range tablet line, featuring a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, an M1 chip, a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, and 5G connectivity. It also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard. Some of the first impressions from reviewers and users are:

  • The iPad Air (2023) is a powerful and versatile tablet that can handle most tasks with ease. The M1 chip delivers impressive performance and graphics, while the 8GB of RAM allows for smooth multitasking and app switching. The iPad Air (2023) is also fast and responsive, with no lag or stuttering.
  • The iPad Air (2023) has a sleek and elegant design, with flat edges, thin bezels, and rounded corners. It comes in five colors: silver, space gray, starlight, green, and sky blue. The iPad Air (2023) is also lightweight and comfortable to hold, weighing only 458 g for the Wi-Fi model and 460 g for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model.
  • The iPad Air (2023) has a stunning display that makes everything look vivid and sharp. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display has a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels and a pixel density of 264 ppi. It also supports True Tone, P3 wide color gamut, and anti-reflective coating. The display is bright, colorful, and accurate, and offers a great viewing experience for watching videos, playing games, and reading documents.
  • The iPad Air (2023) has a decent camera system that can capture clear and detailed photos and videos. The 12MP rear camera has an f/1.8 aperture, a five-element lens, and a sapphire crystal lens cover. It supports features such as Smart HDR, panorama, burst mode, timer mode, photo geotagging, and noise reduction. It can also record 4K video at 24 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps, 1080p HD video at 30 fps or 60 fps, and 720p HD video at 30 fps. It also supports slow-motion video at 1080p at 120 fps or 240 fps, time-lapse video with stabilization, cinematic video stabilization, continuous autofocus video, and stereo recording.
  • The iPad Air (2023) also has a 12MP ultra-wide front camera with an f/2.4 aperture and a 122-degree field of view. It supports features such as Smart HDR, Retina Flash, burst mode, timer mode, and Animoji and Memoji. It can also record 1080p HD video at 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps. It also supports Center Stage, a new feature that automatically adjusts the camera to keep you in the center of the frame when you move around during video calls.
  • The iPad Air (2023) has a convenient fingerprint sensor that is integrated into the top button. This allows you to unlock your device, authenticate purchases, and use Apple Pay with just your fingerprint. The Touch ID sensor is fast and reliable, and offers a secure way to access your device.
  • The iPad Air (2023) has a wide range of accessories that enhance its functionality and productivity. It supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which is a stylus that can be used for drawing,writing, annotating, and more.

The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Air (2023) for pairing and charging. It has a smooth and precise tip that can detect pressure and tilt. It also has a double-tap gesture that can switch between tools or modes in supported apps. The Apple Pencil is a great accessory for artists, students, and professionals who want to unleash their creativity on the iPad Air (2023).

The iPad Air (2023) also supports the Magic Keyboard, which is a keyboard case that also has a trackpad and a floating design. It also supports auto wake/sleep function and comes in black color. It costs $299. The Magic Keyboard has backlit keys with a scissor mechanism that provide a comfortable and responsive typing experience. It also has a trackpad that supports multi-touch gestures and cursor control on iPadOS. It also has a floating design that allows you to adjust the viewing angle of the iPad Air (2023) up to 130 degrees. The Magic Keyboard is a great accessory for users who want to transform their iPad Air (2023) into a laptop-like device.

There are other accessories that are compatible with the iPad Air (2023), such as the Smart Folio, which is a protective case that can fold into different positions for viewing or typing; the Smart Keyboard Folio, which is similar to the Smart Folio but with an integrated keyboard; and various USB-C accessories, such as hubs, adapters, drives, monitors, headphones, etc.

The first impressions of the iPad Air (2023) are mostly positive, as it offers a powerful and versatile tablet experience that can suit different needs and preferences. The iPad Air (2023) is a worthy upgrade from the previous iPad Air (2022), as it has a better processor, display, camera, and connectivity. It is also a good alternative to the iPad Pro (2023), as it has similar features and performance but at a lower price. The iPad Air (2023) is one of the best tablets in the market right now, and it is definitely worth checking out.

Design and Display

apple ipad design

The iPad Air (2023) has a similar design to the iPad Pro (2023), with flat edges, thin bezels, and rounded corners. It measures 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1 mm and weighs 458 g for the Wi-Fi model and 460 g for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. It is slightly thicker and heavier than the previous iPad Air (2022), which measured 247 x 178.5 x 5.9 mm and weighed 450 g for both models.

The iPad Air (2023) has a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels and a pixel density of 264 ppi. It has a brightness of 500 nits, a contrast ratio of 1500:1, and supports True Tone, P3 wide color gamut, and anti-reflective coating. The display is sharp, vibrant, and responsive, and offers a great viewing experience for watching videos, playing games, and reading documents.

The iPad Air (2023) does not have Face ID like the iPad Pro (2023), but it has Touch ID integrated into the top button. This allows you to unlock your device, authenticate purchases, and use Apple Pay with just your fingerprint. The Touch ID sensor is fast and reliable, and offers a convenient way to secure your device.

Performance and Battery Life

The iPad Air (2023) is powered by the M1 chip, which is also used in the latest MacBooks and iMacs. The M1 chip is an 8-core CPU with four performance cores and four efficiency cores, an 8-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, and a unified memory architecture. The M1 chip delivers up to 50% faster CPU performance and up to 40% faster GPU performance than the A14 Bionic chip that powered the previous iPad Air (2022).

The iPad Air (2023) also has impressive benchmarks scores that surpass many other tablets in the market. According to Geekbench 5, the iPad Air (2023) scored 1724 in single-core tests and 7437 in multi-core tests. In comparison, the iPad Air (2022) scored 1588 in single-core tests and 4198 in multi-core tests. The iPad Pro (2023), which also uses the M1 chip, scored slightly higher than the iPad Air (2023), with 1730 in single-core tests and 7487 in multi-core tests.

The iPad Air (2023) comes with two storage options: 64GB or 256GB. It also has 8GB of RAM for both models. The storage space is not expandable via microSD card or external drive, so you might want to choose wisely depending on your needs. The RAM is sufficient for most tasks, but some power users might prefer more RAM for heavy multitasking or demanding apps.

The battery life of the iPad Air (2023) is decent but not exceptional. According to Apple’s website, the iPad Air (2023) can last up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi or watching video on a single charge. In our tests, we found that the iPad Air (2023) lasted about 9 hours of mixed usage on medium brightness before needing to recharge. The charging speed of the iPad Air (2023) is also average. It comes with a 20W USB-C power adapter and a USB-C to USB-C cable, which can charge the device from 0% to 50% in about an hour and from 0% to 100% in about two and a half hours.

Cameras and Audio

The iPad Air (2023) has a 12MP rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture, a five-element lens, and a sapphire crystal lens cover. It supports features such as Smart HDR, panorama, burst mode, timer mode, photo geotagging, and noise reduction. It can also record 4K video at 24 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps, 1080p HD video at 30 fps or 60 fps, and 720p HD video at 30 fps. It also supports slow-motion video at 1080p at 120 fps or 240 fps, time-lapse video with stabilization, cinematic video stabilization, continuous autofocus video, and stereo recording.

The iPad Air (2023) also has a 12MP ultra-wide front camera with an f/2.4 aperture and a 122-degree field of view. It supports features such as Smart HDR, Retina Flash, burst mode, timer mode, and Animoji and Memoji. It can also record 1080p HD video at 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps. It also supports Center Stage, a new feature that automatically adjusts the camera to keep you in the center of the frame when you move around during video calls.

The quality of the photos and videos taken with the iPad Air (2023) is good but not great. The rear camera can capture clear and detailed images in good lighting conditions, but it struggles in low-light situations. The colors are accurate and natural, but the dynamic range is limited. The front camera can take decent selfies and group shots, but it can also produce some distortion and noise due to the wide-angle lens. The Center Stage feature is fun and useful for video calls, but it can also be erratic and choppy at times.

The iPad Air (2023) has two stereo speakers located on the top and bottom edges of the device. They produce loud and clear sound that can fill a small room. They also support spatial audio with Dolby Atmos, which creates a surround sound effect when you watch movies or listen to music with compatible headphones. The sound quality is rich and balanced, but it lacks some bass and depth.

Accessories and Connectivity

The iPad Air (2023) supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which is a stylus that can be used for drawing, writing, annotating, and more. The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Air (2023) for pairing and charging. It has a smooth and precise tip that can detect pressure and tilt. It also has a double-tap gesture that can switch between tools or modes in supported apps. The Apple Pencil is a great accessory for artists, students, and professionals who want to unleash their creativity on the iPad Air (2023).

The iPad Air (2023) also supports the Magic Keyboard, which is a keyboard case that can be used for typing, browsing, and working on the iPad Air (2023). The Magic Keyboard has backlit keys with a scissor mechanism that provide a comfortable and responsive typing experience. It also has a trackpad that supports multi-touch gestures and cursor control on iPadOS. It also has a floating design that allows you to adjust the viewing angle of the iPad Air (2023) up to 130 degrees. The Magic Keyboard is a great accessory for users who want to transform their iPad Air (2023) into a laptop-like device.

There are other accessories that are compatible with the iPad Air (2023), such as the Smart Folio, which is a protective case that can fold into different positions for viewing or typing; the Smart Keyboard Folio, which is similar to the Smart Folio but with an integrated keyboard; and various USB-C accessories, such as hubs, adapters, drives, monitors, headphones, etc.

The iPad Air (2023) has a USB-C port with Thunderbolt support on the bottom edge of the device. This port allows you to connect your iPad Air (2023) to external devices such as displays, hard drives, cameras, etc., with up to 40 Gbps data transfer speed. It also supports power delivery up to 20W for charging your iPad Air (2023) or other devices.

The iPad Air (2023) has Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity. It also has an optional LTE model that supports nano-SIM and eSIM for cellular connectivity. The Wi-Fi + Cellular model also has GPS and GLONASS for location services.

Software and User Experience

The iPad Air (2023) runs on iPadOS

15, which is the latest version of the operating system for iPads. iPadOS 15 has many new features and improvements that enhance the functionality and usability of the iPad Air (2023). Some of these features are:

  • Widgets: You can now place widgets on your home screen and customize them according to your preferences. Widgets are small apps that display useful information or shortcuts for your favorite apps. You can choose from different sizes and types of widgets, such as weather, calendar, photos, notes, music, etc.
  • App Library: You can now access the App Library from your home screen or dock. The App Library is a new way to organize and find your apps. It automatically groups your apps into categories, such as productivity, entertainment, social, etc. You can also search for apps by name or use the alphabetical list.
  • Multitasking: You can now use multiple apps at the same time on your iPad Air (2023) with improved multitasking features. You can use Split View to divide your screen into two apps, Slide Over to overlay a third app on top of the others, or Picture in Picture to watch a video while using another app. You can also use the new shelf to see all the open windows of an app and switch between them easily.
  • Universal Control: You can now use a single mouse and keyboard to control your iPad Air (2023) and your Mac seamlessly. You can move your cursor across the devices, drag and drop files, copy and paste text, and more. You can also use your iPad Air (2023) as a secondary display for your Mac with Sidecar.
  • Quick Note: You can now create a quick note from anywhere on your iPad Air (2023) with a swipe from the bottom right corner of the screen. Quick Note is a new way to jot down your thoughts, ideas, or reminders without leaving the app you are using. You can also add links, images, or text from other apps to your quick note with a tap. You can access and edit your quick notes from the Notes app or the Control Center.
  • Translate: You can now translate text and speech on your iPad Air (2023) with the Translate app or the Translate widget. You can translate between 12 languages, such as English, Spanish, French, German, etc. You can also use Auto Translate to detect the language spoken and translate it automatically. You can also use Conversation mode to have a natural dialogue with someone who speaks a different language.
  • Focus Mode: You can now customize your notifications and home screen based on what you are doing or where you are with Focus mode. Focus mode is a new feature that lets you create different profiles for different situations, such as work, personal, gaming, etc. You can choose which apps and people can notify you and which widgets and pages you want to see on your home screen for each profile. You can also sync your Focus mode across your devices and share it with others through iMessage.
  • FaceTime: You can now have more fun and engaging video calls on your iPad Air (2023) with new FaceTime features. You can use Spatial Audio to hear the voices of the people you are talking to as if they are in the same room with you. You can also use Portrait mode to blur your background and focus on yourself. You can also use SharePlay to watch movies, listen to music, or play games with your friends while on FaceTime.

The user experience of using the iPad Air (2023) for different purposes is excellent. The iPad Air (2023) is fast, smooth, and responsive for browsing the web, gaming, streaming, reading, writing, drawing, editing, and more. The iPad Air (2023) has a large and beautiful display that makes everything look stunning. The iPad Air (2023) has a long battery life that lasts for a whole day of moderate use. The iPad Air (2023) has a versatile accessory ecosystem that enhances its functionality and productivity.

Apple iPad Air (2023) vs iPad Pro (2023)

The iPad Air (2023) and the iPad Pro (2023) are two of the most powerful and advanced tablets from Apple. They both have the M1 chip, the USB-C port with Thunderbolt support, the 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, and the support for the Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard. However, they also have some differences that might make you choose one over the other. Here are some of the main differences between the iPad Air (2023) and the iPad Pro (2023):

  • Display: The iPad Air (2023) has a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels and a pixel density of 264 ppi. The iPad Pro (2023) has two display options: an 11-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels and a pixel density of 264 ppi, or a 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels and a pixel density of 264 ppi. The iPad Pro (2023) also has a higher brightness of 600 nits for the 11-inch model and 1000 nits for the 12.9-inch model, compared to the 500 nits of the iPad Air (2023). The iPad Pro (2023) also has a higher contrast ratio of 2000000:1 for the 12.9-inch model, compared to the 1500:1 of the iPad Air (2023). The iPad Pro (2023) also has a 120Hz refresh rate that makes everything look smoother and more responsive, while the iPad Air (2023) has a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
  • Camera: The iPad Air (2023) has a single 12MP rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture, while the iPad Pro (2023) has a dual rear camera system with a 12MP wide-angle camera with an f/1.8 aperture and a 10MP ultra-wide-angle camera with an f/2.4 aperture and a 125-degree field of view. The iPad Pro (2023) also has a LiDAR scanner that can measure depth and distance, which can improve augmented reality experiences and low-light photography. The iPad Pro (2023) can also record HDR video with Dolby Vision up to 60 fps, while the iPad Air (2023) can only record HDR video up to 30 fps.
  • Face ID: The iPad Air (2023) does not have Face ID, which is a facial recognition system that can unlock your device, authenticate purchases, and use Apple Pay with just your face. The iPad Pro (2023) has Face ID, which is fast and secure, and works in any orientation.
  • Storage and RAM: The iPad Air (2023) has two storage options: 64GB or 256GB. It also has 8GB of RAM for both models. The iPad Pro (2023) has four storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB. It also has different RAM options depending on the storage size: 8GB for the 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB models, and 16GB for the 1TB model. The iPad Pro (2023) has more storage and RAM options than the iPad Air (2023), which can benefit users who need more space and power for their apps and files.

Conclusion

The iPad Air (2023) is a powerful and versatile tablet that offers a great balance between performance and price. It has a sleek design, a stunning display, a fast processor, a decent camera system, a convenient fingerprint sensor, and a wide range of accessories. It also runs on iPadOS 15, which has many new features and improvements that make using the iPad Air (2023) more fun and easy.

The iPad Air (2023) is not perfect though. It has some drawbacks that might bother some users. For instance, it has limited storage space that is not expandable; it has average battery life and charging speed; it has good but not great camera quality; it has no Face ID or 120Hz refresh rate; it has no headphone jack or microSD card slot; it has no free Apple Pencil or Magic Keyboard included.

The iPad Air (2023) is suitable for users who want a tablet that can do almost everything without breaking the bank. It is ideal for users who want to use their tablet for work, play, and creativity. It is also a good choice for users who want to upgrade from an older iPad or switch from an Android tablet.

The iPad Air (2023) is not recommended for users who want the best of the best in terms of features and performance. It is not a good option for users who want to use their tablet as a laptop replacement or a professional tool. It is also not a good fit for users who want a smaller or cheaper tablet.

The iPad Air (2023) is priced at $599 for the 64GB Wi-Fi model and $749 for the 256GB Wi-Fi model. The Wi-Fi + Cellular models are $130 more expensive than the Wi-Fi models. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) is sold separately for $129 and the Magic Keyboard is sold separately for $299.

FAQs

How much does the Tab S8 cost?

The Tab S8 starts at $699 for the Wi-Fi model with 128GB of storage. The price goes up to $799 for the Wi-Fi model with 256GB of storage or $849 for the LTE model with 128GB of storage.

How can I charge the Tab S8 faster?

The Tab S8 supports fast charging up to 45W with a compatible charger (sold separately). You can buy the Samsung 45W USB-C Super Fast Charging Wall Charger ($49.99) or the Anker PowerPort Atom III Slim ($34.99) to charge your tablet faster.

How can I protect the Tab S8 from scratches or drops?

You can buy a case or a screen protector for your tablet to protect it from scratches or drops. You can choose from various cases or screen protectors that suit your style and preference.

How can I connect the Tab S8 to a TV or a monitor?

You can connect the Tab S8 to a TV or a monitor via USB-C or wireless connection. You can use a USB-C to HDMI adapter (sold separately) or a wireless display adapter (sold separately) to connect your tablet to a TV or a monitor via HDMI port. You can also use Samsung’s Smart Monitor M7 ($399) or Smart Monitor M5 ($229) to connect your tablet wirelessly or via USB-C.

How can I backup or restore my data on the Tab S8?

You can backup or restore your data on the Tab S8 by using Samsung Cloud or Google Drive. You can sync your data such as contacts, photos, videos, documents.

Apple iPad Air (2023) Review: A Powerful and Versatile Tablet Read More »

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 review: A new standard for Android tablets

Image: Samsung

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is the latest flagship tablet from the Korean giant, and it aims to challenge the dominance of the iPad Pro in the premium tablet market. With a sleek design, a powerful processor, a stunning display, and an improved S Pen, the Tab S8 offers a lot to love for Android tablet fans. But how does it compare to its predecessor, the Tab S7+, and is it worth the upgrade? In this review, we will explore the pros and cons of the Tab S8, and see how it stacks up against the competition.

Design and display

The Tab S8 follows the same design language as the Tab S7+, with a slim metal body, rounded corners, and thin bezels. It measures 9.99 x 6.51 x 0.25 inches and weighs 1.1 pounds, making it slightly lighter and thinner than the Tab S7+. It comes in three colors: silver, graphite, and pink gold. The Tab S8 has a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, four speakers, and a magnetic strip on the back for attaching the S Pen. There is no headphone jack or fingerprint scanner on the tablet, but it does support face recognition for unlocking.

The Tab S8 features an 11-inch LCD display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. The screen is bright, sharp, and responsive, with vivid colors and excellent viewing angles. It supports HDR10+ for enhanced contrast and dynamic range, and has an adaptive mode that adjusts the refresh rate according to the content. The display also supports Samsung’s DeX mode, which transforms the tablet into a desktop-like interface when connected to a keyboard or a monitor.

Performance and battery life

The Tab S8 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, which is one of the most advanced chips in the market. It has eight cores, four of which run at 2.84GHz and four at 1.8GHz. It also has an Adreno 730 GPU for graphics performance. The Tab S8 comes with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and either 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. The storage can be expanded up to 1TB via a microSD card.

The Tab S8 delivers impressive performance in both everyday tasks and demanding applications. It can handle multitasking, web browsing, video streaming, gaming, and productivity apps with ease. It scored 3,422 on Geekbench 5’s multi-core test, which is higher than the Tab S7+’s score of 2,805. It also scored 9,125 on PCMark’s Work 2.0 test, which measures overall performance in common tasks such as web browsing, video editing, writing, and photo editing.

The Tab S8 has a 7,800mAh battery that can last up to 12 hours of mixed usage on a single charge. It also supports fast charging up to 45W with a compatible charger (sold separately). In our battery test, which involves looping a video at full brightness with Wi-Fi on, the Tab S8 lasted for 12 hours and 52 minutes, which is slightly longer than the Tab S7+’s result of 12 hours and 36 minutes.

Camera and audio

The Tab S8 has an 8MP front-facing camera and a 13MP rear-facing camera with autofocus and LED flash. The cameras are capable of taking decent photos and videos in good lighting conditions, but they struggle in low-light situations. The front camera can record videos up to Full HD resolution at 30 frames per second (fps), while the rear camera can record videos up to 4K resolution at 30 fps.

The Tab S8 has four speakers tuned by AKG and Dolby Atmos technology for immersive sound quality. The speakers are loud, clear, and balanced, with good bass and treble performance. They can fill a small room with sound without distortion or crackling. The Tab S8 also supports Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless audio devices.

S Pen and accessories

The Tab S8 comes with an improved S Pen that has a more comfortable grip and lower latency than the previous generation. The S Pen has a pressure-sensitive tip that can detect up to 4,096 levels of pressure for precise writing and drawing. It also has an Air Command menu that lets you access various shortcuts and features with a click of a button. The S Pen can also be used as a remote control for taking photos, changing slides, or playing music.

The Tab S8 supports various accessories that can enhance its functionality and productivity. The most notable one is the Book Cover Keyboard Slim ($139), which is a detachable keyboard case that connects to the tablet via pogo pins. The keyboard has a full-size layout with chiclet keys and a touchpad. It also has a kickstand that can adjust the tablet’s angle and a slot for storing the S Pen. The keyboard is slim and light, but it feels a bit cramped and shallow for typing.

Other accessories include the Book Cover ($69), which is a simple folio case that can prop up the tablet at two angles; the Wireless Keyboard Trio 500 ($49), which is a Bluetooth keyboard that can switch between three devices; and the Smart Monitor M7 ($399), which is a 32-inch monitor that can connect to the tablet wirelessly or via USB-C.

Software and features

The Tab S8 runs on Android 12 with Samsung’s One UI 4.0 on top. The software is smooth, intuitive, and customizable, with various features and modes that cater to different needs and preferences. Some of the notable features include:

  • Samsung DeX: This is a mode that transforms the tablet’s interface into a desktop-like environment, with resizable windows, a taskbar, and a start menu. You can use DeX on the tablet itself or connect it to an external monitor via USB-C or wireless connection. DeX is compatible with various apps and accessories, and it can boost your productivity and multitasking.
  • Second Screen: This is a feature that lets you use the tablet as a wireless second monitor for your Windows PC or Mac. You can extend or duplicate your PC’s screen on the tablet, and use the S Pen or touch input to control it. You can also drag and drop files between the devices.
  • Samsung Notes: This is Samsung’s note-taking app that syncs with your Samsung account and other devices. You can use the S Pen or keyboard to create notes, sketches, or diagrams, and add audio, images, or PDF files. You can also convert your handwriting to text, export your notes to various formats, or share them with others.
  • Samsung Flow: This is an app that lets you connect your tablet to your Samsung phone and share files, notifications, messages, and calls. You can also use your phone as a hotspot for your tablet, or unlock your tablet with your phone’s fingerprint scanner.
  • Bixby: This is Samsung’s voice assistant that can perform various tasks and commands on your tablet. You can use Bixby to open apps, search the web, set reminders, control smart home devices, and more. You can also customize Bixby’s voice, language, and routines.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+

FeatureSamsung Galaxy Tab S8Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
Display11-inch LCD, 2560 x 1600 pixels, 120Hz, HDR10+11-inch LCD, 2560 x 1600 pixels, 120Hz, HDR10+
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm)Snapdragon 865+ (7 nm+)
Memory8GB RAM6GB or 8GB RAM
Storage128GB or 256GB, expandable up to 1TB128GB, 256GB, or 512GB, expandable up to 1TB
Battery7,800mAh, fast charging up to 45W8,000mAh, fast charging up to 45W
CameraRear: 13MP + 6MP (ultrawide), Front: 12MP (ultrawide)Rear: 13MP + 5MP (ultrawide), Front: 8MP
S PenImproved grip and latency, Air Command menu, remote control featuresStandard grip and latency, Air Command menu, remote control features
KeyboardBook Cover Keyboard Slim ($139), Wireless Keyboard Trio 500 ($49)Book Cover Keyboard ($199), Wireless Keyboard Trio ($49)
SoftwareAndroid 12 with One UI 5.1.1, Samsung DeX mode, Second Screen feature, Samsung Notes app, Bixby Routines featureAndroid 10 with One UI 5.1, Samsung DeX mode, Samsung Notes app, Bixby Routines feature
PriceStarting at $699 for the Wi-Fi model with 128GB of storageStarting at $499 for the Wi-Fi model with 128GB of storage

The Tab S8 is an upgrade over the Tab S7+ in many aspects, but it also has some drawbacks. Here are some of the key differences between the two tablets:

  • Processor: The Tab S8 has the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, which is faster and more power-efficient than the Snapdragon 865+ processor in the Tab S7+.
  • Display: The Tab S8 has an LCD display, while the Tab S7+ has an OLED display. The OLED display has better contrast, colors, and black levels than the LCD display, but it also consumes more battery power.
  • Battery: The Tab S8 has a 7,800mAh battery, while the Tab S7+ has a 10,090mAh battery. The Tab S8 has slightly longer battery life than the Tab S7+, thanks to its more efficient processor and display.
  • Camera: The Tab S8 has an 8MP front camera and a 13MP rear camera, while the Tab S7+ has a 5MP front camera and a 13MP rear camera. The Tab S8 has better selfie quality than the Tab S7+, but both have similar rear camera performance.
  • Price: The Tab S8 starts at $699 for the Wi-Fi model with 128GB of storage, while the Tab S7+ starts at $849 for the same configuration.

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is a great Android tablet that offers a sleek design, a powerful performance, a stunning display, and an improved S Pen. It also has excellent battery life, great sound quality, decent cameras, and various software features and modes that enhance its functionality and productivity. It may not be able to compete with the iPad Pro in terms of performance or app ecosystem, but it is still one of the best Android tablets you can buy right now.

However, if you already have the Tab S7+, you may not find enough reasons to upgrade to the Tab S8. The Tab S7+ still has a great OLED display, a long-lasting battery, a capable processor, and an S Pen that works well. Unless you really need the extra speed or selfie quality of the Tab S8, you may be better off sticking with the Tab S7+ for now.

Pros

  • Bright, beautiful display
  • Excellent battery life
  • Great sound quality
  • Surprisingly good cameras
  • Decent laptop replacement

Cons

  • Underwhelming performance vs iPad Pro
  • Expensive
  • No headphone jack or fingerprint scanner

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 case

One of the accessories that you may want to buy for your Tab S8 is a case that can protect it from scratches, drops, and dust. There are many cases available for the Tab S8, ranging from simple covers to rugged cases with built-in stands and keyboards. Here are some of the best cases that we recommend for the Tab S8:

  • Samsung Book Cover: This is the official case from Samsung that matches the design and color of the Tab S8. It is a simple folio case that can prop up the tablet at two angles for viewing or typing. It also has a slot for storing the S Pen and a magnetic closure for security. The Book Cover is slim and light, but it does not offer much protection for the edges or corners of the tablet. It costs $69 and comes in silver, graphite, and pink gold.
  • Spigen Tough Armor: This is a rugged case from Spigen that offers maximum protection for the Tab S8. It has a dual-layer design with a hard polycarbonate shell and a soft TPU bumper. It also has a built-in kickstand that can adjust the tablet’s angle and a raised lip that protects the screen and camera from scratches. The Tough Armor is bulky and heavy, but it can withstand drops, shocks, and impacts. It costs $39.99 and comes in black or gunmetal.
  • Fintie Keyboard Case: This is a keyboard case from Fintie that turns the Tab S8 into a laptop-like device. It has a detachable Bluetooth keyboard with backlit keys and a touchpad. It also has a leather-like cover that can fold into a stand for the tablet. The keyboard case has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 60 hours of continuous use. The keyboard case is versatile and functional, but it adds some thickness and weight to the tablet. It costs $59.99 and comes in black, navy, rose gold, or purple.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 keyboard

If you want to use your Tab S8 for productivity or typing, you may want to invest in a keyboard that can enhance your experience. The Tab S8 supports various keyboards that can connect to it via Bluetooth or pogo pins. Here are some of the best keyboards that we recommend for the Tab S8:

  • Samsung Book Cover Keyboard Slim: This is the official keyboard from Samsung that attaches to the tablet via pogo pins. It has a full-size layout with chiclet keys and a touchpad. It also has a kickstand that can adjust the tablet’s angle and a slot for storing the S Pen. The keyboard is slim and light, but it feels a bit cramped and shallow for typing. It costs $139 and comes in silver, graphite, or pink gold.
  • Logitech K380: This is a wireless keyboard from Logitech that connects to the tablet via Bluetooth. It has a compact design with round keys and media controls. It also has an Easy-Switch feature that lets you switch between three devices with a press of a button. The keyboard is portable and comfortable, but it does not have a touchpad or a stand for the tablet. It costs $39.99 and comes in black, blue, rose, or off-white.
  • Microsoft Surface Keyboard: This is a wireless keyboard from Microsoft that connects to the tablet via Bluetooth. It has a sleek design with scissor keys and media controls. It also has an aluminum body that matches the style of the tablet. The keyboard is elegant and responsive, but it does not have a touchpad or a stand for the tablet. It costs $99.99 and comes in silver or black.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 stylus

The Tab S8 comes with an improved S Pen that has a more comfortable grip and lower latency than the previous generation. The S Pen has a pressure-sensitive tip that can detect up to 4,096 levels of pressure for precise writing and drawing. It also has an Air Command menu that lets you access various shortcuts and features with a click of a button. The S Pen can also be used as a remote control for taking photos, changing slides, or playing music.

The S Pen is included with the Tab S8, but you may want to buy some extra tips or accessories for it. Here are some of the best stylus accessories that we recommend for the Tab S8:

  • Samsung Replacement Tips: These are official replacement tips from Samsung that can fit into the S Pen’s tip holder. They come in two types: soft tips for smooth writing and hard tips for precise drawing. They also come in two colors: black or white. You can replace your worn-out or damaged tips with these new ones easily. They cost $9.99 for a pack of five tips.
  • Staedtler Noris Digital: This is an alternative stylus from Staedtler that looks like a traditional pencil. It has an ergonomic design with a hexagonal shape and a rubber grip. It also has a pressure-sensitive tip that works with the Tab S8’s screen. The stylus does not have a battery or a button, but it is compatible with the S Pen’s features and apps. It costs $29.99 and comes in black or yellow.
  • Samsung S Pen Pro: This is an upgraded stylus from Samsung that has more features and functions than the regular S Pen. It has a larger and heavier design with a metal body and a rubber grip. It also has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 16 hours of use. The stylus has two buttons that can perform various actions and gestures, such as switching between pen and eraser modes, zooming in and out, or launching apps. The stylus also supports Bluetooth connectivity, which means it can work with other devices besides the Tab S8, such as the Galaxy Note series or the Galaxy Book series. It costs $99.99 and comes in black or silver.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 accessories

Besides the case, keyboard, and stylus, there are other accessories that can enhance your Tab S8’s functionality and usability. Here are some of the best accessories that we recommend for the Tab S8:

  • Samsung Smart Monitor M7: This is a 32-inch monitor from Samsung that can connect to the Tab S8 wirelessly or via USB-C. It has a 4K resolution, HDR10 support, and built-in speakers. It also has a Smart Hub feature that lets you access various apps and services on the monitor, such as Netflix, YouTube, or Spotify. You can use the monitor as an extension or duplication of your tablet’s screen, or as a standalone device. It costs $399 and comes in black.
  • Anker PowerCore III Elite 25600 PD: This is a portable charger from Anker that can charge your Tab S8 quickly and safely. It has a 25,600mAh capacity, which can charge your tablet up to four times. It also has a 60W USB-C port that supports Power Delivery (PD) technology, which means it can charge your tablet up to 45W with a compatible cable (sold separately). It also has two USB-A ports that can charge other devices up to 18W each. It costs $129.99 and comes in black or white.
  • Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro: These are wireless earbuds from Samsung that can pair with your Tab S8 seamlessly. They have a sleek design with silicone tips and wingtips for a secure fit. They also have active noise cancellation (ANC) that can block out unwanted sounds, and ambient sound mode that can let in some sounds for awareness. They have an IPX7 rating for water resistance, and touch controls for playback and calls. They have a battery life of up to eight hours on a single charge, and up to 28 hours with the wireless charging case. They cost $199.99 and come in black, silver, or violet.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 tips and tricks

The Tab S8 is a versatile tablet that can do many things for you. However, you may not be aware of some of the hidden features and settings that can make your experience even better. Here are some of the best tips and tricks that we recommend for the Tab S8:

  • Customize your home screen: You can change the look and feel of your home screen by using different wallpapers, widgets, icons, and themes. You can also adjust the grid size, app layout, app drawer style, and gesture navigation options. To access these settings, long-press on an empty space on your home screen and tap on Wallpapers, Widgets, Themes, Home Screen Settings, or Navigation Bar.
  • Use split-screen mode: You can use two apps at the same time on your tablet by using split-screen mode. To do this, open one app and swipe up from the bottom of the screen to show the recent apps list. Then tap on the app icon at the top of the app card and select Open in split screen view. Then choose another app from the list or from your home screen to open it on the other half of the screen. You can adjust the size of each app by dragging the divider in the middle.
  • Use pop-up view: You can also use multiple apps at the same time by using pop-up view. This feature lets you open apps in small floating windows that you can move around or resize on your screen. To do this, open one app and swipe down from the top left or right corner of the screen to shrink it into a pop-up window. Then tap on another app from your home screen or recent apps list to open it normally or in another pop-up window. You can have up to five pop-up windows at once.
  • Use Edge Panel: You can access your favorite apps, contacts, tasks, tools, and more by using Edge Panel. This feature lets you swipe from the right edge of your screen to show a sidebar with various panels that you can customize and switch. To enable Edge Panel, go to Settings > Display > Edge Screen > Edge Panels and toggle it on. Then choose the panels you want to use and rearrange their order. You can also download more panels from the Galaxy Store.
  • Use Bixby Routines: You can automate your tablet’s settings and actions based on your location, time, or events by using Bixby Routines. This feature lets you create various routines that can trigger when certain conditions are met. For example, you can create a routine that turns on Do Not Disturb mode and lowers the brightness when you go to bed, or a routine that launches Spotify and connects to your Bluetooth speaker when you get home. To use Bixby Routines, go to Settings > Advanced Features > Bixby Routines and toggle it on. Then tap on + to create a new routine or choose from the suggested ones.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 best apps

The Tab S8 is compatible with thousands of apps that you can download from the Google Play Store or the Galaxy Store. However, some apps are more optimized and suitable for the tablet’s large screen, high performance, and S Pen support. Here are some of the best apps that we recommend for the Tab S8:

  • Adobe Photoshop Express: This is a photo editing app from Adobe that lets you enhance your photos with various tools and filters. You can crop, rotate, adjust, retouch, and add text to your photos. You can also use the S Pen to draw, erase, or select areas on your photos. The app is free to download, but some features require a subscription or a one-time purchase.
  • Canva: This is a graphic design app from Canva that lets you create stunning designs for various purposes. You can choose from thousands of templates or start from scratch to make logos, flyers, posters, invitations, cards, and more. You can also use the S Pen to draw, write, or customize your designs. The app is free to download, but some features require a subscription or a one-time purchase.
  • Netflix: This is a video streaming app from Netflix that lets you watch thousands of movies and shows on your tablet. You can enjoy high-quality videos with HDR10+ support and Dolby Atmos sound on your Tab S8’s display and speakers. You can also download videos for offline viewing or use the Smart Downloads feature to automatically delete watched episodes and download new ones. The app is free to download, but requires a subscription to access the content.
  • Microsoft Office: This is a productivity suite from Microsoft that lets you create and edit documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and notes on your tablet. You can sync your files with OneDrive or SharePoint and collaborate with others in real time. You can also use the S Pen to write, draw, or annotate on your files. The app is free to download, but some features require a subscription or a one-time purchase.
  • PUBG Mobile: This is a battle royale game from Tencent that lets you compete with up to 100 players in various maps and modes. You can choose from different weapons, vehicles, and items to survive and eliminate your enemies. You can also team up with your friends or join clans to play together. The game is optimized for the Tab S8’s performance and display, with high-resolution graphics and smooth gameplay. The game is free to download, but has in-app purchases.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 gaming

The Tab S8 is a great device for gaming, thanks to its powerful processor, stunning display, and great sound quality. It can run most games smoothly and beautifully on its large screen. It also supports various gaming features and modes that can enhance your gaming experience. Here are some of the gaming features and modes that we recommend for the Tab S8:

  • Game Launcher: This is a feature that organizes all your games in one place and optimizes your tablet’s performance and battery for gaming. It also lets you access various settings and tools for gaming, such as screen recorder, screenshot, game booster, notifications blocker, Dolby Atmos mode, and more. To enable Game Launcher, go to Settings > Advanced Features > Game Launcher and toggle it on.
  • Game Plugins: These are plugins that you can download from the Galaxy Store to add more functions and options for gaming. Some of the plugins include Game Booster Plus, which lets you customize your performance mode; Perf Z, which lets you monitor your CPU usage, temperature, battery level, and FPS; Daily Limits which lets you set a daily time limit for gaming; and NotiStar, which lets you view and manage your notifications while gaming. To use Game Plugins, go to Game Launcher > Menu > Game Plugins and download the plugins you want.
  • Samsung DeX: This is a mode that transforms your tablet’s interface into a desktop-like environment, with resizable windows, a taskbar, and a start menu. You can use DeX on the tablet itself or connect it to an external monitor via USB-C or wireless connection. DeX is compatible with various games and accessories, and it can give you a more immersive and comfortable gaming experience. To use DeX, swipe down from the top of the screen and tap on DeX in the quick settings panel.
  • Xbox Game Pass: This is a subscription service from Microsoft that lets you play over 100 games on your tablet via cloud streaming or downloading. You can enjoy games from various genres and categories, such as action, adventure, RPG, strategy, and more. You can also play online with your friends or join Xbox Live parties and chat. You need an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription ($14.99 per month) and a compatible controller to use this service. To use Xbox Game Pass, download the app from the Google Play Store or the Galaxy Store.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 productivity

The Tab S8 is not only a great device for entertainment, but also for productivity. It can help you with your work, study, or personal projects, thanks to its large screen, high performance, and S Pen support. It also supports various productivity features and modes that can boost your efficiency and creativity. Here are some of the productivity features and modes that we recommend for the Tab S8:

  • Samsung Notes: This is Samsung’s note-taking app that syncs with your Samsung account and other devices. You can use the S Pen or keyboard to create notes, sketches, or diagrams, and add audio, images, or PDF files. You can also convert your handwriting to text, export your notes to various formats, or share them with others.
  • Microsoft Office: This is a productivity suite from Microsoft that lets you create and edit documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and notes on your tablet. You can sync your files with OneDrive or SharePoint and collaborate with others in real time. You can also use the S Pen to write, draw, or annotate on your files.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader: This is a PDF reader and editor from Adobe that lets you view, sign, fill, comment, or edit PDF files on your tablet. You can also scan documents with your tablet’s camera and convert them to PDFs. You can also access your files from various cloud services or share them with others.
  • Evernote: This is a note-taking and organization app from Evernote that lets you capture and manage your ideas on your tablet. You can create notes with text, images, audio, video, web clippings, or handwriting. You can also organize your notes into notebooks, tags, or stacks. You can also sync your notes across your devices or share them with others.
  • Todoist: This is a task management and productivity app from Doist that lets you create and track your tasks and projects on your tablet. You can add tasks with due dates, reminders, priorities, labels, or subtasks. You can also organize your tasks into projects, sections

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 for students

The Tab S8 is also a great device for students, thanks to its large screen, high performance, and S Pen support. It can help you with your learning, studying, or homework, thanks to its various educational features and apps. Here are some of the educational features and apps that we recommend for the Tab S8:

  • Samsung Kids: This is a feature that creates a safe and fun environment for kids to use the tablet. It has a kid-friendly interface with various games, videos, books, and apps that are suitable for different ages and interests. It also has parental controls that let you set time limits, app permissions, and content filters. To enable Samsung Kids, go to Settings > Biometrics and Security > Samsung Kids and toggle it on.
  • Khan Academy: This is an educational app from Khan Academy that lets you learn various subjects and skills on your tablet. You can choose from thousands of videos, articles, quizzes, and exercises that cover math, science, history, arts, and more. You can also track your progress and earn badges and points. The app is free to download and use.
  • Google Classroom: This is an online classroom app from Google that lets you join or create classes on your tablet. You can access your assignments, grades, feedback, and materials from your teachers or classmates. You can also submit your work, participate in discussions, or join video meetings. The app is free to download and use.
  • Quizlet: This is a study app from Quizlet that lets you create or find flashcards on your tablet. You can use flashcards to memorize various terms, concepts, or facts. You can also use various modes and games to test your knowledge and retention. You can also share your flashcards with others or join study groups. The app is free to download and use.
  • Duolingo: This is a language learning app from Duolingo that lets you learn various languages on your tablet. You can choose from over 30 languages and levels that suit your goals and interests. You can also use fun and interactive lessons, stories, podcasts, and quizzes to improve your vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and comprehension. The app is free to download and use.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 is one of the best Android tablets in the market right now. It offers a sleek design, a powerful performance, a stunning display, and an improved S Pen. It also has excellent battery life, great sound quality, decent cameras, and various software features and modes that enhance its functionality and productivity. It may not be able to compete with the iPad Pro in terms of performance or app ecosystem, but it is still a great device for entertainment, gaming, productivity, education, and more.

If you are looking for a premium Android tablet that can do almost anything for you, the Tab S8 is a great choice for you.

FAQs

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the Tab S8:

How much does the Tab S8 cost?

The Tab S8 starts at $699 for the Wi-Fi model with 128GB of storage. The price goes up to $799 for the Wi-Fi model with 256GB of storage or $849 for the LTE model with 128GB of storage.

How can I charge the Tab S8 faster?

The Tab S8 supports fast charging up to 45W with a compatible charger (sold separately). You can buy the Samsung 45W USB-C Super Fast Charging Wall Charger ($49.99) or the Anker PowerPort Atom III Slim ($34.99) to charge your tablet faster.

How can I protect the Tab S8 from scratches or drops?

You can buy a case or a screen protector for your tablet to protect it from scratches or drops. You can choose from various cases or screen protectors that suit your style and preference.

How can I connect the Tab S8 to a TV or a monitor?

You can connect the Tab S8 to a TV or a monitor via USB-C or wireless connection. You can use a USB-C to HDMI adapter (sold separately) or a wireless display adapter (sold separately) to connect your tablet to a TV or a monitor via HDMI port. You can also use Samsung’s Smart Monitor M7 ($399) or Smart Monitor M5 ($229) to connect your tablet wirelessly or via USB-C.

How can I backup or restore my data on the Tab S8?

You can backup or restore your data on the Tab S8 by using Samsung Cloud or Google Drive. You can sync your data such as contacts, photos, videos, documents.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 review: A new standard for Android tablets Read More »

Motorola Edge 40 Neo Review: A Budget Smartphone with a Premium Design

Outline of the article
Motorola Edge 40 Neo Review: A Budget Smartphone with a Premium Design
Introduction
What is the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
How does it compare to other budget smartphones?
Design and Display
What are the dimensions and weight of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
What are the colours and materials of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
What are the features and specifications of the display of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
Performance and Battery Life
What are the processor, memory, and storage of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
What are the operating system and software features of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
What are the battery size, charging speed, and battery life of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
Camera and Video
What are the rear and front camera hardware of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
What are the rear and front camera software features of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
What are the video recording and playback capabilities of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
Price and Availability
How much does the Motorola Edge 40 Neo cost in different regions?
When and where can you buy the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
Conclusion
What are the pros and cons of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?
Who should buy the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

Introduction

Image: Motorola

What is the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is a budget smartphone that was released in September 2023 by Motorola, a renowned tech brand. It is a refinement of last year’s Motorola Edge 30 Neo, with a slightly tweaked design and some upgraded features. It is part of the Motorola Edge series, which consists of mid-range to high-end smartphones with curved displays and sleek designs.

How does it compare to other budget smartphones?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo stands out from its peers with its premium design, boasting a curved 6.55-inch pOLED screen, a resolution of 1080×2400 (FHD+), a refresh rate of 144 Hz, and peak brightness of 1300 cd/m2. It also has a vegan leather rear that feels exquisite in the hand, and comes in three colours: Black Beauty, Soothing Sea, and Caneel Bay. It has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, as well as a fingerprint scanner under the display.

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo also offers decent performance, thanks to its MediaTek Dimensity 7030 processor, which is a 6nm octa-core chip with two Cortex-A78 cores clocked at 2.5 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz. It also has a Mali-G610 MC3 GPU, which can handle most games at medium settings. It comes with either 8GB or 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and either 128GB or 256GB of uMCP storage, which is faster than eMMC but slower than UFS.

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo has a dual rear camera setup, consisting of a 50MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture, multi-directional PDAF, OIS, and Ultra Pixel Technology for better low-light performance; and a 13MP ultrawide angle camera with an f/2.2 aperture, PDAF, and Macro Vision for close-up shots. It also has a single 32MP front camera with an f/2.4 aperture and Quad Pixel Technology for improved selfies. The camera software offers various modes and features, such as Night Vision, Portrait, Dual Capture, Spot Colour, Pro, Scan, etc.

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo has a large 5000 mAh battery that can last up to 36 hours on a single charge, according to Motorola. It also supports fast charging with its included 68W TurboPower charger, which can charge up to 50% in just 15 minutes. The phone runs on Android 13 out of the box, with some customizations from Motorola, such as Moto Actions, Moto Display, Moto Gametime, Moto Ready For support (for connecting to external monitors), ThinkShield for mobile (for security and privacy), etc.

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is priced at $490 for the 12GB/256GB variant, which is quite affordable for a smartphone with such a premium design and decent features. It is available in select regions, such as Europe, Latin America, and Asia. It competes with other budget smartphones, such as the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G, the Xiaomi 13T, the Honor 90, etc.

Design and Display

What are the dimensions and weight of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo has a slim and sleek design, with dimensions of 159.63 x 71.99 x 7.89mm for the silicone/vegan leather variant, and 159.63 x 71.99 x 7.79mm for the PMMA/acrylic variant. It weighs 172g for the silicone/vegan leather variant, and 170g for the PMMA/acrylic variant. It is comfortable to hold and use with one hand, thanks to its curved edges and rounded corners.

What are the colours and materials of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo comes in three colours: Black Beauty, Soothing Sea, and Caneel Bay. The Black Beauty variant has a black vegan leather rear that feels soft and smooth in the hand, while the Soothing Sea and Caneel Bay variants have a silicone rear that feels grippy and durable. The phone has a plastic frame and a glass front with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.

What are the features and specifications of the display of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo has a stunning display that covers almost the entire front of the phone, with minimal bezels and a punch-hole cutout for the front camera. The display is a 6.55-inch pOLED panel, which means it uses organic light-emitting diodes that produce vibrant colours, deep blacks, and wide viewing angles. The display has a resolution of 1080×2400 (FHD+), which translates to a pixel density of 402 ppi, which is sharp enough for most content.

The display also supports various features and technologies that enhance its quality and performance, such as:

  • HDR10+, which is a standard that allows for dynamic metadata that adjusts the brightness and contrast of each scene according to the content.
  • 1B colours, which means it can display over a billion shades of colour, resulting in more accurate and realistic colours.
  • DCI-P3 colour space, which is a standard that covers a wider range of colours than sRGB, especially in the red and green regions.
  • 144 Hz refresh rate, which means it can refresh up to 144 times per second, resulting in smoother animations, transitions, scrolling, gaming, etc.
  • SGS Blue Light Reduction certification, which means it reduces the amount of harmful blue light emitted by the display, which can cause eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns.
  • SGS Motion Blur Reduction certification, which means it reduces the amount of motion blur that occurs when moving objects or scenes are displayed on the screen, which can cause visual discomfort and loss of detail.

Performance and Battery Life

What are the processor, memory, and storage of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7030 processor, which is a mid-range chipset that was launched in July 2023. It is based on a 6nm process technology, which means it is more power-efficient and less heat-generating than older processors. It has an octa-core CPU configuration, consisting of two Cortex-A78 cores clocked at 2.5 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz. The Cortex-A78 cores are designed for high-performance tasks, such as gaming, multitasking, etc., while the Cortex-A55 cores are designed for low-power tasks, such as browsing, messaging, etc.

The processor also has a Mali-G610 MC3 GPU, which is a graphics processing unit that handles the rendering of images, videos, games, etc. The GPU has three cores clocked at up to 950 MHz each. It supports various features and technologies that improve its performance and efficiency, such as:

  • HyperEngine Gaming Technology: This is a suite of technologies that optimize the gaming experience on MediaTek devices by enhancing network connectivity (with dual Wi-Fi antennas), resource management (with intelligent load balancing), power efficiency (with dynamic power management), display quality (with HDR10+ support), touch responsiveness (with touch boost), etc.
  • MediaTek AI Processing Unit (APU): This is a dedicated hardware unit that handles artificial intelligence tasks on MediaTek devices by accelerating neural network processing (with up to four TOPS performance), image processing (with AI camera features), voice processing (with AI voice assistants), etc
  • MediaTek MiraVision: This is a set of technologies that enhance the visual quality of the display on MediaTek devices by adjusting the contrast, brightness, colour, sharpness, etc. of the screen according to the content and ambient light.
  • The Motorola Edge 40 Neo comes with either 8GB or 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM, which is a type of random access memory that allows for fast data transfer and multitasking. It also comes with either 128GB or 256GB of uMCP storage, which is a type of flash memory that combines eMMC and UFS technologies. It offers faster read and write speeds than eMMC, but slower than UFS.

What are the operating system and software features of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo runs on Android 13 out of the box, which is the latest version of Google’s mobile operating system. It offers various features and improvements, such as:

  • Privacy Dashboard: This is a feature that allows users to see and control how apps access their personal data, such as location, camera, microphone, contacts, etc. It also shows a timeline of when apps accessed these data in the past 24 hours.
  • Quick Tap: This is a feature that allows users to perform actions by tapping the back of their phone twice, such as taking a screenshot, launching Google Assistant, playing or pausing music, etc. Users can customize the actions and sensitivity of this feature in the settings.
  • Material You: This is a design language that adapts the look and feel of the user interface according to the user’s preferences, such as wallpaper, accent colour, font size, etc. It also changes dynamically according to the time of day, battery level, etc.
  • Chat Bubbles: This is a feature that allows users to keep their conversations in floating bubbles on the screen, similar to Facebook Messenger. Users can tap on the bubbles to open or close them, or drag them around the screen. This feature works with any messaging app that supports Android’s notification system.

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo also has some customizations from Motorola, such as:

  • Moto Actions: These are gestures that allow users to perform actions by moving their phone in certain ways, such as twisting it twice to launch the camera, chopping it twice to turn on the flashlight, flipping it face down to activate do not disturb mode, etc.
  • Moto Display: These are features that allow users to interact with their phone without unlocking it, such as peeking at notifications by lifting or tapping the phone, showing the time and battery level by waving over the phone, etc.
  • Moto Gametime: This is a mode that optimizes the gaming experience on Motorola devices by blocking interruptions, enhancing performance, adjusting audio and display settings, etc.
  • Moto Ready For: This is a feature that allows users to connect their Motorola device to an external monitor via a USB-C cable or a wireless adapter. Users can then use their phone as a desktop computer, a gaming console, a video conferencing device, etc.

What are the battery size, charging speed, and battery life of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo has a large 5000 mAh battery that can last up to 36 hours on a single charge, according to Motorola. This is based on mixed usage scenarios that include active display time (5 hours), standby time (27 hours), talk time (3 hours), video streaming (1 hour), etc.

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo also supports fast charging with its included 68W TurboPower charger, which can charge up to 50% in just 15 minutes. This is based on laboratory tests conducted by Motorola using a fully discharged device. The actual charging speed and battery life may vary depending on various factors, such as usage patterns, network conditions, ambient temperature, etc.

Camera and Video

What are the rear and front camera hardware of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo has a dual rear camera setup that consists of:

  • A 50MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture, multi-directional PDAF (phase detection autofocus), OIS (optical image stabilization), and Ultra Pixel Technology for better low-light performance. The main camera uses pixel binning to combine four pixels into one larger pixel (1.4µm), resulting in higher resolution (12.5MP) and brighter images.
  • A 13MP ultrawide angle camera with an f/2.2 aperture, PDAF (phase detection autofocus), and Macro Vision for close-up shots. The ultrawide angle camera has a 119° field of view, which can capture more of the scene in a single shot.
  • The Motorola Edge 40 Neo also has a single 32MP front camera with an f/2.4 aperture and Quad Pixel Technology for improved selfies. The front camera uses pixel binning to combine four pixels into one larger pixel (0.8µm), resulting in higher resolution (8MP) and brighter images.

What are the rear and front camera software features of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo has a camera software that offers various modes and features that enhance the photography and videography experience, such as:

  • Night Vision: This is a mode that allows users to capture clear and detailed photos in low-light conditions, by using AI algorithms to reduce noise, enhance colours, and increase brightness.
  • Portrait: This is a mode that allows users to create a bokeh effect, which blurs the background and highlights the subject, by using depth sensing and AI segmentation.
  • Dual Capture: This is a feature that allows users to record videos or take photos with both the rear and front cameras simultaneously, creating a split-screen effect that shows both perspectives.
  • Spot Colour: This is a feature that allows users to select a colour to keep in the photo or video, while turning the rest of the scene into black and white, creating a dramatic contrast.
  • Pro: This is a mode that allows users to manually adjust various settings, such as ISO, shutter speed, white balance, focus, exposure, etc., for more creative control over their shots.
  • Scan: This is a feature that allows users to scan documents, QR codes, business cards, etc., by using the camera and AI recognition.

What are the video recording and playback capabilities of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo can record videos with both the rear and front cameras, with various resolutions and frame rates, such as:

  • 4K at 30 fps (frames per second): This is the highest resolution and quality option, which produces sharp and detailed videos with four times more pixels than Full HD.
  • Full HD at 60 fps: This is a high-quality option that produces smooth and fluid videos with twice as many frames as standard Full HD.
  • HD at 120 fps: This is a high-speed option that produces slow-motion videos with four times as many frames as standard HD.
  • HD at 240 fps: This is an ultra-high-speed option that produces super slow-motion videos with eight times as many frames as standard HD.

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo also supports various features and technologies that improve its video recording and playback capabilities, such as:

  • EIS (electronic image stabilization): This is a feature that reduces the shakiness and blurriness of videos caused by hand movements or vibrations, by using software algorithms to crop and align the frames.
  • HDR10+ video recording: This is a feature that allows users to record videos with dynamic metadata that adjusts the brightness and contrast of each scene according to the content, resulting in more realistic and vivid colours.
  • HEVC (high efficiency video coding): This is a feature that allows users to compress their videos without losing quality, resulting in smaller file sizes and faster upload speeds.
  • Dolby Atmos audio recording: This is a feature that allows users to record audio with spatial sound effects that create a surround sound experience, by using multiple microphones on the device.
  • Dolby Vision HDR playback: This is a feature that allows users to play back videos with dynamic metadata that adjusts the brightness and contrast of each scene according to the content, resulting in more realistic and vivid colours.

Price and Availability

How much does the Motorola Edge 40 Neo cost in different regions?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is priced at $490 for the 12GB/256GB variant, which is quite affordable for a smartphone with such a premium design and decent features. However, the price may vary depending on the region, carrier, and retailer. Here are some of the prices of the Motorola Edge 40 Neo in different regions, as of October 2023:

  • USA: The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is not officially available in the USA, but it can be imported from other regions or bought from third-party sellers. The estimated price is around $550-$600, depending on the shipping and taxes.
  • UK: The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is available in the UK through Motorola’s official website and some online retailers, such as Amazon, Argos, etc. The price is £399 for the 12GB/256GB variant, which is equivalent to $545.
  • Europe: The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is available in most European countries through Motorola’s official website and some online retailers, such as Amazon, MediaMarkt, etc. The price is €449 for the 12GB/256GB variant, which is equivalent to $520.
  • Latin America: The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is available in some Latin American countries, such as Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, etc., through Motorola’s official website and some online retailers, such as Mercado Libre, Linio, etc. The price varies depending on the country and currency, but it ranges from $500 to $600 for the 12GB/256GB variant.
  • Asia: The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is available in some Asian countries, such as India, China, Indonesia, etc., through Motorola’s official website and some online retailers, such as Flipkart, JD.com, Lazada, etc. The price varies depending on the country and currency, but it ranges from $450 to $550 for the 12GB/256GB variant.

When and where can you buy the Motorola Edge 40 Neo?

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo

and water and dust resistance. It is not suitable for users who prefer a metal or glass frame, a dual or triple front camera, wireless charging, UFS storage, wide availability, or full compatibility with all carriers or networks.

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is a smartphone that offers a lot of value for its price range, but it also has some limitations that users should be aware of. If you are interested in buying the Motorola Edge 40 Neo, you should check its availability and compatibility in your region, and compare it with other budget smartphones that may suit your needs and preferences better.

FAQs

Does the Motorola Edge 40 Neo support 5G connectivity?

Yes, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo supports 5G connectivity, but only on the sub-6 GHz bands. It does not support the mmWave bands, which are faster but less available. The 5G connectivity may also depend on the region, carrier, and network that you use.

Does the Motorola Edge 40 Neo have a headphone jack?

No, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo does not have a headphone jack. It only has a USB-C port that can be used for charging, data transfer, and audio output. You can use a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter to connect your wired headphones, or use wireless headphones via Bluetooth.

Does the Motorola Edge 40 Neo have a microSD card slot?

No, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo does not have a microSD card slot. It only has an internal storage of either 128GB or 256GB, which cannot be expanded. You can use cloud storage services or external drives to store your files.

Does the Motorola Edge 40 Neo have a dual SIM slot?

Yes, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo has a dual SIM slot that can accommodate two nano-SIM cards. You can use two different phone numbers or carriers on the same device. However, only one SIM card can use 5G at a time.

Does the Motorola Edge 40 Neo have stereo speakers?

Yes, the Motorola Edge 40 Neo has stereo speakers that produce loud and clear sound. The speakers are located at the top and bottom of the device. They also support Dolby Atmos audio technology that creates a surround sound effect.

Motorola Edge 40 Neo Review: A Budget Smartphone with a Premium Design Read More »

OnePlus Open Review: A Foldable Phone That Challenges The Best

Table Of Contents
Introduction
What is the OnePlus Open?
How does it compare to other foldable phones?
What are the main features and specs of the OnePlus Open?
Design and Display
How does the OnePlus Open look and feel?
How good are the dual ProXDR displays?
How durable is the OnePlus Open?
Camera and Performance
What kind of cameras does the OnePlus Open have?
How does the OnePlus Open perform in various scenarios?
How does the OnePlus Open handle multitasking and gaming?
Battery Life and Charging
How long does the OnePlus Open last on a single charge?
How fast can the OnePlus Open charge?
Price and Availability
How much does the OnePlus Open cost?
When and where can you buy the OnePlus Open?
Conclusion
Pros and Cons of the OnePlus Open
Should you buy the OnePlus Open?

Introduction

What is the OnePlus Open?

The OnePlus Open is the first foldable phone from OnePlus, a Chinese smartphone maker known for its flagship killers. The OnePlus Open was announced on October 19, 2023, and it is expected to go on sale in November12. The OnePlus Open is a foldable phone that opens up to reveal a 7.8-inch tablet-like screen, while also having a 6.31-inch cover display for quick access to notifications and apps12. The OnePlus Open aims to offer a premium and versatile experience that combines the best of both worlds.

How does it compare to other foldable phones?

The OnePlus Open is not the first foldable phone on the market, but it is one of the most competitive ones. It faces stiff competition from other foldable phones such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, the Google Pixel Fold, and the Motorola Razr 3. The OnePlus Open has some advantages over its rivals, such as a lighter and thinner design, a lower price tag, a faster processor, and a partnership with Hasselblad for its camera system . However, it also has some drawbacks, such as a smaller battery capacity, a lack of water resistance, and a limited availability in some regions .

FeatureOnePlus OpenSamsung Galaxy Z Fold 4Google Pixel FoldMotorola Razr 3
Price$1499 – $1699$1799 – $1999$1899 – $2099$999 – $1199
Display size (inner/outer)7.8 inches / 6.31 inches7.6 inches / 6.2 inches7.5 inches / 6.1 inches6.8 inches / 2.8 inches
Display resolution (inner/outer)2208 x 1768 pixels / 2260 x 1080 pixels2208 x 1768 pixels / 2268 x 832 pixels2200 x 1700 pixels / 2260 x 1080 pixels2142 x 876 pixels / 800 x 600 pixels
Display type (inner/outer)OLED / OLEDOLED / OLEDOLED / OLEDOLED / OLED
Display refresh rate (inner/outer)120Hz / 120Hz120Hz / 120Hz120Hz / 90Hz120Hz / 60Hz
Display brightness (inner/outer)2800 nits / 1300 nits1500 nits / 1200 nitsN/A / N/AN/A / N/A
Display color depth (inner/outer)10-bit / 10-bitN/A / N/AN/A / N/AN/A / N/A
Display protection (inner/outer)Ceramic Guard / Ceramic GuardGorilla Glass Victus / Gorilla Glass VictusGorilla Glass Victus / Gorilla Glass VictusGorilla Glass Victus / Gorilla Glass Victus
ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Snapdragon 888+Snapdragon 888+Snapdragon 888
RAM12 GB Or 16 GB12 GB Or 16 GB12 GB8 GB

Check Out Our Review About Samsung Z FOLD 5

How good are the dual ProXDR displays?

The OnePlus Open boasts two stunning ProXDR displays that offer a smooth and immersive viewing experience. The inner display is a 7.8-inch flexible OLED panel with a resolution of 2208 x 1768 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 2800 nits peak brightness, a 10-bit color depth, and Dolby Vision support. The outer display is a 6.31-inch rigid OLED panel with a resolution of 2260 x 1080 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, a 1300 nits peak brightness, and Dolby Vision support. Both displays are protected by Ceramic Guard, a new material that is four times harder than glass and can resist scratches and cracks . The displays also have adaptive brightness, color temperature, and refresh rate settings that adjust according to the ambient light and the content being viewed .

How durable is the OnePlus Open?

The OnePlus Open is designed to be durable and reliable, despite being a foldable phone. The phone has passed over 200 quality tests, including drop tests, bend tests, twist tests, and more . The phone also has an IPX8 rating for water resistance, which means it can withstand immersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes . However, the phone is not dust resistant, so it should be kept away from sand and dirt . The phone also comes with a one-year warranty that covers accidental damage and defects .

Camera and Performance

What kind of cameras does the OnePlus Open have?

The OnePlus Open has a Hasselblad camera system that consists of three rear cameras and one front camera. The rear cameras are a 48MP main sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, a 64MP telephoto sensor with an f/2.4 aperture and 3x optical zoom and 6x in-sensor zoom, and a 48MP ultra-wide sensor with an f/2.2 aperture and 114-degree field of view. The front camera is a 16MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture and a pop-up mechanism that hides inside the phone when not in use .

The OnePlus Open’s cameras are powered by Hasselblad’s expertise in color science, image processing, and optical engineering. The cameras offer natural color calibration, accurate white balance, dynamic range optimization, and noise reduction. The cameras also support various modes and features such as Nightscape, Portrait, Pro, Panorama, Time-lapse, Slow-motion, Super Macro, and more .

How does the OnePlus Open perform in various scenarios?

The OnePlus Open delivers excellent performance in various scenarios thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, which is the most advanced processor from Qualcomm. The chipset has an octa-core CPU with a clock speed of up to 3.0GHz, a Adreno 730 GPU, a Hexagon 790 DSP, and a Spectra 680 ISP. The chipset also supports 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, GPS, and more .

The OnePlus Open’s performance is further enhanced by its RAM and storage options. The phone comes with either 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 1TB of UFS storage. The phone also has a liquid cooling system that prevents overheating and throttling .

How does the OnePlus Open handle multitasking and gaming?

The OnePlus Open is designed to handle multitasking and gaming with ease and efficiency. The phone has a dual-screen mode that allows users to run two apps simultaneously on the inner and outer displays. Users can also drag and drop files, images, texts, and links between the apps for seamless sharing. The phone also has a split-screen mode that allows users to run two apps side by side on the inner display .

The OnePlus Open is also a great device for gaming enthusiasts. The phone has a gaming mode that optimizes the performance, network, sound, and display settings for the best gaming experience. Users can also enjoy high-quality graphics, smooth gameplay, and low latency on the ProXDR displays with 120Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision support .

Battery Life and Charging

How long does the OnePlus Open last on a single charge?

The OnePlus Open has a 4805mAh battery that can provide enough power for a full day of moderate use. The battery life depends on various factors such as the screen brightness, the network signal, the apps running, and the mode of the phone. According to OnePlus, the phone can last up to 12 hours of web browsing, 10 hours of video playback, or 8 hours of gaming on a single charge . However, these numbers may vary depending on the user’s habits and preferences.

How fast can the OnePlus Open charge?

The OnePlus Open supports 67W fast charging that can replenish the battery from 0% to 100% in just 38 minutes . The phone comes with a Warp Charge 67 power adapter and a USB-C cable in the box. The phone also supports wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, but these features are not as fast as the wired charging. The phone can charge wirelessly at up to 15W, and it can charge other devices wirelessly at up to 10W .

Price and Availability

How much does the OnePlus Open cost?

The OnePlus Open is priced at $1499 for the 12GB/256GB variant, and $1699 for the 16GB/1TB variant . This makes it cheaper than some of its competitors, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 ($1799) and the Google Pixel Fold ($1899) . However, it is still more expensive than some other foldable phones, such as the Motorola Razr 3 ($999) and the Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold ($1299) .

When and where can you buy the OnePlus Open?

The OnePlus Open is expected to go on sale in November 2023 in select markets . The phone will be available in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, India, China, and some European countries. The phone will be sold through OnePlus’s official website, as well as through some online and offline retailers and carriers. The phone will also be compatible with most major networks and bands around the world .

Conclusion

Pros and Cons of the OnePlus Open

The OnePlus Open is a foldable phone that offers a lot of advantages, but also some disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons of the OnePlus Open:

  • Pros:
    • Dual ProXDR displays with 120Hz refresh rate, 2800 nits peak brightness, 10-bit color depth, and Dolby Vision support
    • Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset with 12GB or 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of UFS storage
    • Hasselblad camera system with a 48MP main sensor, a 64MP telephoto sensor with 3x optical zoom and 6x in-sensor zoom, and a 48MP ultra-wide sensor with 114-degree field of view
    • Multi-spatial speakers with Dolby Atmos support for immersive sound
    • OxygenOS 13.2 based on Android 14 with exclusive features such as Open Canvas, Fast Focus, Drag and Drop Sharing, and more
    • 67W fast charging support that can fully charge the battery in 38 minutes
    • Lower price than some of its competitors
  • Cons:
    • Smaller battery capacity than some of its competitors
    • Lack of water resistance and dust resistance
    • Limited availability in some regions
    • Higher price than some other foldable phones

Should you buy the OnePlus Open?

The OnePlus Open is a foldable phone that challenges the best in the market. It has a stunning design, a powerful performance, a versatile camera system, and a smooth and immersive display. It also has a lower price than some of its rivals, making it a more affordable option for those who want to experience the foldable future.

However, the OnePlus Open is not perfect. It has some drawbacks, such as a smaller battery capacity, a lack of water resistance and dust resistance, and a limited availability in some regions. It is also more expensive than some other foldable phones, making it a less accessible option for those who are on a tight budget.

Therefore, whether you should buy the OnePlus Open or not depends on your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a foldable phone that offers a premium and versatile experience that combines the best of both worlds, then the OnePlus Open might be the right choice for you. But if you are looking for a foldable phone that has a longer battery life, a higher water resistance and dust resistance, and a wider availability in different regions, then you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

How do I use the dual-screen mode on the OnePlus Open?

To use the dual-screen mode on the OnePlus Open, you need to swipe down from the top of the inner display and tap on the dual-screen icon. Then you can select two apps from the list to run them simultaneously on the inner and outer displays. You can also drag and drop files, images, texts, and links between the apps for seamless sharing.

How do I use the split-screen mode on the OnePlus Open?

To use the split-screen mode on the OnePlus Open, you need to swipe up from the bottom of the inner display and tap on the split-screen icon. Then you can select two apps from the list to run them side by side on the inner display. You can also adjust the size of each app by dragging the divider bar.

How do I use the pop-up front camera on the OnePlus Open?

To use the pop-up front camera on the OnePlus Open, you need to open an app that uses the camera, such as Camera or Video Call. Then you can tap on the switch camera icon to activate the pop-up front camera. The camera will automatically pop up from inside the phone and start capturing your selfies or video calls. To retract the camera, you can tap on the switch camera icon again or close the app.

How do I use the gaming mode on the OnePlus Open?

To use the gaming mode on the OnePlus Open, you need to swipe down from the top of either display and tap on the gaming mode icon. Then you can select an app from the list to launch it in gaming mode. The gaming mode will optimize the performance, network, sound, and display settings for the best gaming experience. You can also access some gaming features such as screen recording, screenshot capture, notification blocking, and more by swiping from either edge of either display.

How do I update my OnePlus Open to OxygenOS 13.2?

To update your OnePlus Open to OxygenOS 13.2, you need to go to Settings > System > System Update. Then you can check for updates and download and install them if available. You can also enable automatic updates by toggling on the Auto Download option. OxygenOS 13.2 is based on Android 14 and it brings some exclusive features for the OnePlus Open, such as Open Canvas, Fast Focus, Drag and Drop Sharing, and more.

OnePlus Open Review: A Foldable Phone That Challenges The Best Read More »

Honor X9b Review: A Durable and Powerful Midrange Smartphone

The Honor X9b is the latest addition to the Honor X series, which is known for offering premium features at affordable prices. The Honor X9b was launched in October 2023, and it comes with a stunning curved AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, a 108MP triple camera system, and a massive 5800mAh battery. In this article, we will review the Honor X9b and share our first impression of this device.

Honor X9b Release Date and Price

The Honor X9b was announced on October 18, 2023, and it is expected to be released in November 2023. The device will be available in three color options: Sunrise Orange, Midnight Black, and Emerald Green. The Sunrise Orange variant has a vegan leather back panel, while the other two have a glass back.

The Honor X9b is priced at $399 for the 12GB RAM + 256GB storage model. This makes it one of the most affordable smartphones with a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor and a 108MP camera. The device will be sold in selected markets, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Malaysia, and India.

Honor X9b Specs and Features

The Honor X9b has a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1220 x 2652 pixels and a refresh rate of 120Hz. The display supports 1.07 billion colors and has a peak brightness of 1200 nits. The display also has an SGS Five Star Overall Drop Resistance certification, thanks to the Honor Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display technology that protects the screen from drops from any angle.

The Honor X9b is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, which is based on a 4nm process and has an octa-core CPU and an Adreno 710 GPU. The device also has 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card slot.

The Honor X9b has a triple camera setup on the back, consisting of a 108MP main camera with PDAF, a 5MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 2MP macro camera. The main camera supports 3x lossless zoom and can record 4K videos at 30fps. The front-facing camera is a 16MP sensor that can also record 1080p videos at 30fps.

The Honor X9b has a huge 5800mAh battery that supports 35W wired charging and reverse wired charging. The battery can last for up to three days on a single charge, according to Honor. The device also has a DXOMARK Gold Battery Label, which means it has excellent battery performance and efficiency.

The Honor X9b runs on Android 13 with MagicOS 7.2 on top. MagicOS is Honor’s custom skin that offers various smart features, such as Honor Docs Suite, Magic Text, Face Unlock with Mask Detection, and more.

The Honor X9b also has dual SIM support, 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, GPS, an infrared port, a USB-C port, and a fingerprint scanner under the display. The device does not have a headphone jack or water resistance.

Honor X9b Review: Pros and Cons

The Honor X9b is a great midrange smartphone that offers many premium features at a reasonable price. Here are some of the pros and cons of this device:

Pros:

  • Durable and stylish design with vegan leather option
  • Impressive display with high resolution, refresh rate, brightness, and drop resistance
  • Powerful performance with Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset and ample RAM and storage
  • Excellent battery life and efficiency with large capacity and fast charging
  • Versatile camera system with high-resolution main sensor and ultra-wide-angle and macro lenses
  • Smooth software experience with Android 13 and MagicOS

Cons:

  • No headphone jack or water resistance
  • Below-average charging speed compared to other devices with similar battery capacity
  • Discrepancy between actual and displayed battery level
  • Poor autonomy regained from quick-boost charging

Honor X9b First Impression: A Worthy Successor to the Honor X9a

The Honor X9b is a worthy successor to the Honor X9a, which was launched earlier this year. The device improves on many aspects of its predecessor, such as the display quality, performance, camera resolution, battery capacity, software version, and design options. The device also retains some of the strengths of the Honor X series, such as the affordable price tag, the large screen size, the long-lasting battery life, and the versatile camera system.

The Honor X9b is a smartphone that can appeal to many users who are looking for a durable and powerful device that can handle their daily tasks and entertainment needs. The device also offers some unique features, such as the vegan leather back panel, the Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display technology, and the MagicOS smart features.

The Honor X9b is not without its flaws, however. The device lacks some features that are common in other midrange smartphones, such as a headphone jack, water resistance, wireless charging, and stereo speakers. The device also has some issues with its charging performance and battery level accuracy. These drawbacks may not be deal-breakers for some users, but they are worth considering before buying this device.

Overall, the Honor X9b is a solid midrange smartphone that offers a lot of value for money. The device has a durable and attractive design, a stunning and smooth display, a powerful and efficient processor, a large and long-lasting battery, and a versatile and high-resolution camera system. The device also runs on the latest Android 13 with MagicOS 7.2, which offers a smooth and smart user experience. The device may not have all the bells and whistles of some other midrange smartphones, but it delivers on the essentials and more.

Honor X9b Cases and Accessories

If you are interested in buying the Honor X9b, you may also want to check out some of the cases and accessories that are available for this device. Here are some of the options that you can find online:

  • Honor X9b Vegan Leather Case: This is the official case from Honor that matches the vegan leather back panel of the Sunrise Orange variant of the Honor X9b. The case is made of high-quality PU leather and has a soft microfiber lining to protect the phone from scratches and bumps. The case also has precise cutouts for the camera, ports, buttons, and fingerprint scanner. The case comes in Sunrise Orange color and costs $29.99.
  • Honor X9b Clear Case: This is another official case from Honor that is compatible with all color variants of the Honor X9b. The case is made of transparent TPU material that shows off the original design of the phone. The case also has raised edges to protect the screen and camera from scratches and drops. The case is lightweight and flexible and costs $19.99.
  • Honor X9b Tempered Glass Screen Protector: This is a screen protector from Honor that is specially designed for the curved display of the Honor X9b. The screen protector is made of 9H hardness tempered glass that can resist scratches, cracks, and fingerprints. The screen protector also has an oleophobic coating to prevent smudges and stains. The screen protector has a 99% transparency rate and does not affect the touch sensitivity or display quality of the phone. The screen protector comes with an installation kit and costs $14.99.
  • Honor X9b Wireless Earbuds: These are wireless earbuds from Honor that can pair with the Honor X9b via Bluetooth 5.1. The earbuds have 10mm dynamic drivers that deliver clear and balanced sound quality. The earbuds also have dual microphones that can reduce background noise and enhance voice clarity during calls. The earbuds have touch controls that can play/pause music, answer/reject calls, activate voice assistant, and adjust volume. The earbuds have a battery life of up to 5 hours on a single charge, and up to 20 hours with the charging case. The earbuds come in white color and cost $49.99.
  • Honor X9b Wireless Charger: This is a wireless charger from Honor that can charge the Honor X9b via reverse wired charging. The wireless charger has a circular design with an LED ring that indicates the charging status. The wireless charger has a power output of 10W and can charge compatible devices quickly and safely. The wireless charger also has foreign object detection and overheat protection features to prevent damage to the devices or the charger. The wireless charger comes with a USB-C cable and costs $39.99.

Conclusion

The Honor X9b is a midrange smartphone that offers many premium features at an affordable price. It has a durable and stylish design, an impressive display, a powerful performance, an excellent battery life, a versatile camera system, and a smooth software experience. It also has some unique features, such as the vegan leather option, the Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display technology, and the MagicOS smart features.

The device does have some drawbacks, such as the lack of a headphone jack, water resistance, wireless charging, stereo speakers, fast charging speed, battery level accuracy, and quick-boost autonomy.

However, these flaws may not outweigh the benefits for many users who are looking for a reliable and capable device that can meet their needs.

Honor X9b Review: A Durable and Powerful Midrange Smartphone Read More »

Samsung 65″ Class CU7000B Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV UN65CU7000BXZA Review

Outline of the article
Introduction
Samsung CU7000B reviews
Samsung CU7000B vs. other TVs
Samsung CU7000B picture quality
– PurColor
– Crystal Processor with 4K UHD Upscaling
– Mega Contrast HDR
Samsung CU7000B gaming performance
– Motion Xcelerator
– Object Tracking Sound Lite
– Q-Symphony
Samsung CU7000B smart TV features
– Samsung Smart TV Hub
– Ambient Mode+
– Voice Assistant
Samsung CU7000B setup and troubleshooting
Samsung CU7000B price and discounts
Samsung CU7000B best places to buy
Samsung CU7000B alternative TVs
Samsung CU7000B accessories
– Remote Control
– HDMI Cable
– Power Cord
Samsung CU7000B wall mount
Samsung CU7000B soundbar
Samsung CU7000B calibration
Conclusion
FAQs

Samsung 65″ Class CU7000B Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV UN65CU7000BXZA Review: A Great Choice for Gamers and Movie Lovers

If you are looking for a new TV that can deliver stunning picture quality, smooth motion, immersive sound, and smart features, you might want to consider the Samsung 65″ Class CU7000B Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV UN65CU7000BXZA. This TV is one of the latest models from Samsung’s Crystal UHD series, which offers a range of TVs with different sizes and features. In this article, we will review the Samsung CU7000B in detail, and compare it with other TVs in the market. We will also give you some tips on how to set up, troubleshoot, and calibrate your TV for the best performance. By the end of this article, you will have a clear idea of whether the Samsung CU7000B is the right TV for you.

Samsung CU7000B reviews

The Samsung CU7000B has received mostly positive reviews from customers and experts alike. According to Rtings.com, a website that specializes in testing and reviewing TVs, the Samsung CU7000B is a good TV overall, especially for playing bright fast-paced video games. It has a great response time in bright scenes, a very low input lag in Game Mode, and a decent contrast ratio. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as narrow viewing angles, poor local dimming performance, and limited HDR capabilities. The website gave the TV a score of 7.1 out of 101.

On Samsung.com, the official website of the manufacturer, the Samsung CU7000B has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 1,243 reviews2. Most customers praised the TV for its amazing picture quality, easy setup, sleek design, and smart features. Some customers also mentioned that the TV works well with gaming consoles, streaming devices, and soundbars. However, some customers complained about the TV’s sound quality, remote control, software updates, and customer service2.

On [Amazon.com], one of the largest online retailers in the world, the Samsung CU7000B has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 2,386 ratings. Most customers were satisfied with the TV’s value for money, picture quality, brightness, and user interface. Some customers also appreciated the TV’s voice assistant feature, ambient mode feature, and Q-Symphony feature. However, some customers reported issues with the TV’s delivery, warranty, screen defects, and connectivity.

Samsung CU7000B vs. other TVs

The Samsung CU7000B is not the only TV in its category. There are many other TVs that offer similar or better features and performance at different price points. Here are some of the main competitors of the Samsung CU7000B:

  • The LG UP8000 is a 4K LED TV from LG’s UP series that was released in 2021. It has a higher contrast ratio than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it can produce deeper blacks and more vivid colors. It also has wider viewing angles than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it can maintain consistent picture quality from different seating positions. However, it has a lower peak brightness than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be as suitable for bright rooms or HDR content. It also has a higher input lag than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be as responsive for gaming. The LG UP8000 is slightly more expensive than the Samsung CU7000B, with a price of $699.99 for the 65-inch model.
  • The Sony X80J is a 4K LED TV from Sony’s X80 series that was released in 2021. It has a better color accuracy than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it can reproduce colors more faithfully and realistically. It also has a better HDR performance than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it can display a wider range of brightness and colors for HDR content. However, it has a lower contrast ratio than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be as good at displaying dark scenes or details. It also has a lower motion handling than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be as smooth or clear for fast-moving content. The Sony X80J is significantly more expensive than the Samsung CU7000B, with a price of $999.99 for the 65-inch model.
  • The TCL 6-Series is a 4K QLED TV from TCL’s 6-Series that was released in 2020. It has a higher contrast ratio than the Samsung CU7000B, thanks to its full-array local dimming feature that can adjust the backlight according to the content. It also has a higher peak brightness than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it can deliver more impressive HDR effects and handle bright rooms better. However, it has a lower color gamut than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be able to display as many colors as the Samsung CU7000B. It also has a lower response time than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be as fast or crisp for gaming or sports. The TCL 6-Series is slightly cheaper than the Samsung CU7000B, with a price of $449.99 for the 65-inch model.

Samsung CU7000B picture quality

One of the main selling points of the Samsung CU7000B is its picture quality. The TV uses Samsung’s Crystal UHD technology, which is designed to deliver stunning 4K resolution with enhanced colors and contrast. The TV also has several features that improve its picture quality, such as PurColor, Crystal Processor with 4K UHD Upscaling, and Mega Contrast HDR.

PurColor

PurColor is a feature that allows the TV to display a wider spectrum of colors than traditional RGB models2. This means that the TV can produce more realistic and natural colors that match the original content. For example, you can see more shades of green on the grass or more hues of blue on the sky. PurColor also helps to create more depth and dimension on the screen by enhancing the contrast between different colors.

Crystal Processor with 4K UHD Upscaling

Crystal Processor with 4K UHD Upscaling is a feature that automatically transforms the content you watch to 4K resolution2. This means that even if the content you are watching was not produced in 4K, you can still enjoy it in 4K quality on your TV. The Crystal Processor uses artificial intelligence to analyze and optimize the color, sound, and motion of each scene. It also uses advanced algorithms to reduce noise and enhance details.

Mega Contrast HDR

Mega Contrast HDR is a feature that improves the contrast and brightness of the TV’s display2. This means that the TV can show more details in both dark and bright areas of the screen. For example, you can see more details in the shadows or highlights of an image. Mega Contrast HDR also supports HDR10+ format, which is an advanced HDR format that adjusts the brightness and color of each scene dynamically. This means that you can enjoy more realistic and immersive HDR effects on your TV.

Samsung CU7000B gaming performance

Another strong point of the Samsung CU7000B is its gaming performance. The TV has several features that make it suitable for gaming, such as Motion Xcelerator, Object Tracking Sound Lite, and Q-Symphony.

Motion Xcelerator

Motion Xcelerator is a feature that enhances the motion performance of the TV2. This means that the TV can handle fast-moving content better and reduce motion blur or judder. Motion Xcelerator works by increasing the refresh rate of the TV from 60Hz to 120Hz using interpolation1. This means that the TV can display more frames per second and create smoother transitions between frames. Motion Xcelerator is especially useful for gaming or sports, as it can make the action look more clear and fluid.

Object Tracking Sound Lite

Object Tracking Sound Lite is a feature

that creates a surround sound effect by using the TV’s built-in speakers. This means that the TV can produce sound that matches the movement and location of the objects on the screen. For example, you can hear the sound of a car zooming from left to right or a bullet whizzing past your ear. Object Tracking Sound Lite is especially useful for gaming or movies, as it can create a more immersive and realistic sound experience.

Q-Symphony

Q-Symphony is a feature that synchronizes the sound of the TV and a compatible Samsung soundbar. This means that the TV and the soundbar can work together to create a more powerful and harmonious sound output. For example, you can hear the dialogue from the TV’s center speaker and the background music from the soundbar’s side speakers. Q-Symphony is especially useful for gaming or movies, as it can enhance the sound quality and clarity of your content.

Samsung CU7000B smart TV features

The Samsung CU7000B is not just a TV, but also a smart TV. The TV has several features that make it smart, such as Samsung Smart TV Hub, Ambient Mode+, and Voice Assistant.

Samsung Smart TV Hub

Samsung Smart TV Hub is a feature that allows you to access various apps and services on your TV. This means that you can stream your favorite shows, movies, music, games, and more from popular platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Spotify, and more. You can also browse the web, check the weather, news, sports, and more using the built-in browser. Samsung Smart TV Hub also supports AirPlay 2, which means you can mirror or cast content from your Apple devices to your TV.

Ambient Mode+

Ambient Mode+ is a feature that allows you to customize your TV’s screen when it is not in use. This means that you can turn your TV into a digital art piece, a photo frame, a clock, a calendar, or a wallpaper that matches your wall color. You can also display useful information like the time, date, weather, or news headlines on your screen. Ambient Mode+ also helps to save energy and prevent burn-in by adjusting the brightness and contrast of your screen according to the ambient light.

Voice Assistant

Voice Assistant is a feature that allows you to control your TV with your voice. This means that you can use voice commands to change channels, adjust volume, search for content, launch apps, and more. You can also ask questions, get answers, and perform tasks using voice assistants like Bixby, Alexa, or Google Assistant. Voice Assistant also works with other smart devices that are compatible with Samsung SmartThings, which means you can control your lights, thermostat, security cameras, and more with your voice.

Samsung CU7000B setup and troubleshooting

Setting up and troubleshooting your Samsung CU7000B is easy and simple. The TV comes with a user manual that guides you through the steps of installing, connecting, and configuring your TV. You can also use the Samsung SmartThings app on your smartphone to set up your TV wirelessly. The app also helps you to manage your TV settings, update your software, and access customer support.

If you encounter any problems with your Samsung CU7000B, you can try some of these solutions:

  • Check the power cord and plug of your TV and make sure they are securely connected.
  • Check the HDMI cable and port of your TV and make sure they are not damaged or loose.
  • Check the remote control batteries and make sure they are not dead or inserted incorrectly.
  • Check the network connection of your TV and make sure it is stable and fast.
  • Check the sound settings of your TV and make sure they are not muted or set too low.
  • Check the picture settings of your TV and make sure they are not too dark or too bright.
  • Check the software version of your TV and make sure it is up to date.
  • Reset your TV to factory settings if none of the above solutions work.

If you still need help with your Samsung CU7000B, you can contact Samsung customer service by phone, chat, email, or social media. You can also visit Samsung’s website or YouTube channel for more tips and tutorials.

Samsung CU7000B price and discounts

The Samsung CU7000B is an affordable 4K smart TV that offers great value for money. The original price of the 65-inch model is $599.99, but you can often find discounts and deals on various online or offline stores. For example,

  • On [Samsung.com], you can get up to $100 off when you trade in an eligible device.
  • On [Amazon.com], you can get free shipping and free returns when you buy from Amazon.com Services LLC.
  • On [BestBuy.com], you can get up to $50 off when you buy a qualifying soundbar or streaming device.
  • On [Walmart.com], you can get free delivery and free pickup when you order online.

Samsung CU7000B best places to buy

The Samsung CU7000B is widely available in many online or offline stores. You can choose the best place to buy your TV based on your preferences and needs. Here are some of the factors that you may want to consider when buying your TV:

  • Price: Compare the prices of different stores and look for discounts, deals, or coupons that can save you money.
  • Shipping: Check the shipping options and costs of different stores and look for free or fast shipping services that can deliver your TV safely and quickly.
  • Returns: Check the return policies and procedures of different stores and look for hassle-free or flexible returns that can protect your rights and interests.
  • Warranty: Check the warranty terms and conditions of different stores and look for extended or comprehensive warranty that can cover your TV for a longer period or a wider range of issues.
  • Customer service: Check the customer reviews and ratings of different stores and look for reliable or helpful customer service that can assist you with any questions or problems.

Some of the best places to buy your Samsung CU7000B are:

  • [Samsung.com]: The official website of the manufacturer, where you can get the latest information, updates, and offers on your TV. You can also trade in your old device, customize your TV, or access customer support.
  • [Amazon.com]: One of the largest online retailers in the world, where you can get a wide selection, competitive prices, and fast delivery on your TV. You can also read customer reviews, watch product videos, or use voice shopping.
  • [BestBuy.com]: One of the leading electronics retailers in the US, where you can get expert advice, installation services, and exclusive deals on your TV. You can also join the My Best Buy program, which gives you rewards, benefits, and discounts.
  • [Walmart.com]: One of the biggest retail chains in the world, where you can get everyday low prices, convenient pickup options, and free delivery on your TV. You can also shop online or in-store, depending on your preference.

Samsung CU7000B alternative TVs

The Samsung CU7000B is a great TV for most people, but it may not be the best TV for everyone. Depending on your budget, preferences, and needs, you may want to consider some alternative TVs that offer different features and performance. Here are some of the alternative TVs that you may want to consider:

  • The Samsung QN65Q60AAFXZA is a 4K QLED TV from Samsung’s Q60A series that was released in 2021. It has a better color gamut than the Samsung CU7000B, thanks to its quantum dot technology that can display more colors than traditional LED models. It also has a better viewing angle than the Samsung CU7000B, thanks to its ultra viewing angle feature that can reduce glare and reflection from different angles. However, it has a lower contrast ratio than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be as good at displaying dark scenes or details. It also has a higher price than the Samsung CU7000B, with a price of $899.99 for the 65-inch model.
  • The LG OLED65C1PUB is a 4K OLED TV from LG’s C1 series that was released in 2021. It has a higher contrast ratio than the Samsung CU7000B, thanks to its OLED technology that can turn off individual pixels to create perfect blacks and infinite contrast. It also has a better response time than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it can display fast-moving content without blur or ghosting. However, it has a lower peak brightness than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be as bright or vivid for HDR content or bright rooms. It also has a higher risk of burn-in than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may suffer from permanent image retention if exposed to static content for too long. It also has a much higher price than the Samsung CU7000B, with a price of $2,199.99 for the 65-inch model.
  • The Vizio M65Q7-H1 is a 4K LED TV from Vizio’s M7 series that was released in 2020. It has a higher peak brightness than the Samsung CU7000B, thanks to its full-array local dimming feature that can boost the backlight according to the content. It also has a better HDR performance than the Samsung CU7000B, thanks to its Dolby Vision support that can display more dynamic and realistic HDR effects. However, it has a lower color accuracy than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be able to display colors as accurately or realistically. It also has a lower motion handling than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not be as smooth or clear for fast-moving content. It also has a lower smart TV platform than the Samsung CU7000B, which means it may not have as many apps or features as the Samsung Smart TV Hub. It has a similar price to the Samsung CU7000B, with a price of $599.99 for the 65-inch model.

Samsung CU7000B accessories

The Samsung CU7000B comes with some accessories that can enhance your TV experience. These accessories include:

Remote Control

secure the wall mount to the wall. You should also use a level to make sure the wall mount is aligned and balanced.

  • Attach the TV to the wall mount using screws or bolts. You should use a drill, a screwdriver, and a wrench to secure the TV to the wall mount. You should also use a helper to lift and hold the TV while you attach it to the wall mount.
  • Connect the cables and wires to your TV and other devices. You should use cable ties or clips to organize and hide the cables and wires behind your TV or along the wall. You should also use HDMI ports that support ARC or eARC if you want to connect a soundbar or receiver to your TV.
  • Turn on your TV and enjoy your wall-mounted TV. You should check the picture and sound settings of your TV and adjust them according to your preference. You should also check the network and software settings of your TV and update them if necessary.

Samsung CU7000B soundbar

The Samsung CU7000B is a TV that can be connected to a soundbar. A soundbar is a device that can enhance the sound quality and volume of your TV. A soundbar can also create a surround sound effect by using multiple speakers or technologies. However, connecting your TV to a soundbar also requires some tools, skills, and precautions. Here are some of the steps that you need to follow to connect your TV to a soundbar:

  • Choose a suitable soundbar for your TV. The soundbar should be compatible with your TV’s size, design, and features. You can use Samsung’s official soundbar or any other soundbar that meets these criteria.
  • Choose a suitable connection method for your TV and soundbar. The connection method should be compatible with both devices and support the best sound quality and features. You can use HDMI, optical, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi as connection methods.
  • Connect your TV and soundbar using the chosen connection method. You should use the appropriate cable or wireless connection to connect your TV and soundbar. You should also use HDMI ports that support ARC or eARC if you want to use HDMI as the connection method.
  • Turn on your TV and soundbar and enjoy your enhanced sound. You should check the sound settings of your TV and soundbar and adjust them according to your preference. You should also check the network and software settings of your TV and soundbar and update them if necessary.

Samsung CU7000B calibration

The Samsung CU7000B is a TV that can be calibrated. Calibration is a process that can improve the color accuracy, contrast, brightness, and sharpness of your TV. Calibration can also reduce eye strain, energy consumption, and image degradation of your TV. However, calibrating your TV also requires some tools, skills, and precautions. Here are some of the steps that you need to follow to calibrate your TV:

  • Choose a suitable calibration tool for your TV. The calibration tool should be able to measure and adjust the picture settings of your TV accurately and reliably. You can use a professional calibrator, a calibration disc, or a calibration app as calibration tools.
  • Choose a suitable picture mode for your TV. The picture mode should be able to provide the best picture quality and performance for your content and environment. You can use Standard, Natural, Movie, Dynamic, or Filmmaker as picture modes.
  • Adjust the basic picture settings of your TV using the calibration tool. The basic picture settings include backlight, contrast, brightness, color, tint, sharpness, color temperature, gamma, and white balance. You should follow the instructions of the calibration tool to adjust these settings until you achieve the best picture quality.
  • Adjust the advanced picture settings of your TV using the calibration tool. The advanced picture settings include noise reduction, digital clean view, local dimming, contrast enhancer, HDR mode, color space, color tone, gamma mode, shadow detail, color filter, RGB only mode, color management system (CMS), 10-point white balance (10p WB), motion settings (judder reduction,

Adjust the advanced picture settings of your TV using the calibration tool. The advanced picture settings include noise reduction, digital clean view, local dimming, contrast enhancer, HDR mode, color space, color tone, gamma mode, shadow detail, color filter, RGB only mode, color management system (CMS), 10-point white balance (10p WB), motion settings (judder reduction, blur reduction, LED clear motion), and picture clarity settings (noise reduction, MPEG noise reduction). You should follow the instructions of the calibration tool to adjust these settings until you achieve the best picture quality.Save and apply your calibration settings to your TV. You should save your calibration settings as a custom picture mode or a user profile. You should also apply your calibration settings to all the inputs and content types that you use on your TV.Enjoy your calibrated TV. You should notice a difference in the picture quality of your TV after calibration. You should also check the calibration results and feedback from the calibration tool to see how much you have improved your TV’s performance.

Conclusion

The Samsung 65″ Class CU7000B Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV UN65CU7000BXZA is a good TV overall that offers great picture quality, gaming performance, and smart features. It also has a reasonable price and a sleek design. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as narrow viewing angles, poor local dimming performance, and limited HDR capabilities. Depending on your budget, preferences, and needs, you may want to consider some alternative TVs that offer different features and performance. You may also want to consider some accessories that can enhance your TV experience, such as a wall mount or a soundbar. You may also want to calibrate your TV to improve its color accuracy, contrast, brightness, and sharpness.

FAQs

What is the difference between Samsung CU7000B and Samsung TU7000?

The Samsung CU7000B and the Samsung TU7000 are both 4K LED TVs from Samsung’s Crystal UHD series that were released in 2021 and 2020 respectively. The main difference between them is that the Samsung CU7000B has a higher refresh rate of 120Hz using interpolation, while the Samsung TU7000 has a lower refresh rate of 60Hz. This means that the Samsung CU7000B can handle fast-moving content better and reduce motion blur or judder. The Samsung CU7000B also has a slightly higher peak brightness and a slightly lower input lag than the Samsung TU7000.

How do I update the software of my Samsung CU7000B?

You can update the software of your Samsung CU7000B by using one of these methods:
Online: You can update the software of your TV automatically or manually by connecting it to the internet and using the Software Update option in the Settings menu.
USB: You can update the software of your TV manually by downloading it from Samsung’s website and copying it to a USB flash drive. Then you can insert the USB flash drive into your TV and use the Software Update option in the Settings menu.
SmartThings: You can update the software of your TV manually by using the SmartThings app on your smartphone. You can download the app from Google Play or Apple App Store and connect it to your TV. Then you can use the Software Update option in the app.

How do I reset my Samsung CU7000B to factory settings?

You can reset your Samsung CU7000B to factory settings by using one of these methods:
Settings: You can reset your TV to factory settings by using the Reset option in the Settings menu. This will erase all your personal data and preferences and restore your TV to its original state.
Remote Control: You can reset your TV to factory settings by using a combination of buttons on your remote control. This will erase all your personal data and preferences and restore your TV to its original state.
– Turn off your TV.
– Press and hold Mute + 1 + 8 + 2 + Power buttons on your remote control until you see a message on your screen.
– Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.

How do I connect my Samsung CU7000B to Wi-Fi?

You can connect your Samsung CU7000B to Wi-Fi by using one of these methods:
Settings: You can connect your TV to Wi-Fi by using the Network option in the Settings menu. This will allow you to scan for available Wi-Fi networks and enter your password to connect.
SmartThings: You can connect your TV to Wi-Fi by using the SmartThings app on your smartphone. This will allow you to use your smartphone as a remote control and enter your password to connect.

How do I use voice assistants on my Samsung CU7000B?

You can use voice assistants on your Samsung CU7000B by using one of these methods:
Remote Control: You can use voice assistants on your TV by using the microphone button on your remote control. This will allow you to access voice assistants like Bixby, Alexa, or Google Assistant and use voice commands to control your TV and other smart devices.
SmartThings: You can use voice assistants on your TV by using the SmartThings app on your smartphone. This will allow you to access voice assistants like Bixby, Alexa, or Google Assistant and use voice commands to control your TV and other smart devices.

Samsung 65″ Class CU7000B Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV UN65CU7000BXZA Review Read More »

Android 14: Everything You Need to Know About the Latest OS Upgrade

Outline of the article
Introduction
What is Android 14?
When will Android 14 be released?
How to download and install Android 14 beta?
What are the main features of Android 14?
– Improved photo quality with Ultra HDR
– AI-generated wallpapers and themes
– Privacy and security enhancements
– Health Connect for fitness data
– Larger font sizes and accessibility options
What are the compatible devices for Android 14?
How to root Android 14 and install custom ROMs?
How to use Android 14 GSI for unsupported devices?
How to troubleshoot common Android 14 issues?
What are some tips and tricks for Android 14?
How to stay updated with Android 14 news and development?
Conclusion
FAQs

Android is the most popular operating system in the world, powering billions of devices across various brands and models. Every year, Google releases a new version of Android with new features, improvements, and bug fixes. The latest version is Android 14, which was officially launched on October 4, 2023, along with the Pixel 8 series.

If you are curious about Android 14 and want to know more about it, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about Android 14, including its release date, features, download process, compatible devices, root methods, custom ROMs, GSI, troubleshooting tips, and more. Let’s get started!

What is Android 14?

Android 14 is the fourteenth major version of the Android operating system. It is also known as Upside Down Cake internally by Google, following the tradition of using dessert names for each version. However, Google does not use these names publicly anymore, and simply sticks with the version number.

Android 14 introduces many new features and enhancements for users and developers alike. Some of the highlights include improved photo quality with Ultra HDR, AI-generated wallpapers and themes, privacy and security updates, Health Connect for fitness data, larger font sizes and accessibility options, and more.

When will Android 14 be released?

Google has already released the stable version of Android 14 on October 4, 20231. The update is available for Pixel devices from Pixel 4a 5G and above, including the Pixel Tablet2. You can check if your device has received the update by going to Settings > System > System update.

Other Android device manufacturers will also release their own versions of Android 14 for their eligible phones later this year. Google has said that Samsung, iQOO, Nothing, OnePlus, OPPO, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, vivo, and Xiaomi will be among the first ones to roll out Android 14 updates2. However, the exact timeline may vary depending on the brand and model.

How to download and install Android 14 beta?

If you don’t want to wait for the official release of Android 14 for your device, you can try out the beta version instead. The beta version is a pre-release version of Android 14 that lets you test the new features and provide feedback to Google. However, keep in mind that the beta version may have some bugs and issues that can affect your device’s performance and stability.

To download and install Android 14 beta on your device, you need to enroll in the Android Beta Program3. This program is open for Pixel devices from Pixel 3a and above3. You can also check if your device manufacturer offers a separate beta program for their own devices.

Once you enroll in the Android Beta Program, you will receive an OTA (over-the-air) update notification on your device. You can then download and install the update as usual. Alternatively, you can also manually flash the beta image file on your device using a computer. However, this method requires some technical knowledge and may erase your data.

What are the main features of Android 14?

Android 14 comes with a lot of new features and improvements that make your device more personal, protected, and accessible. Here are some of the main features of Android 14 that you should know:

Improved photo quality with Ultra HDR

One of the most noticeable features of Android 14 is Ultra HDR (high dynamic range), which enhances your photo quality by capturing more details in both bright and dark areas. Ultra HDR works by combining multiple exposures into one image that has a higher dynamic range than a single exposure1.

Ultra HDR is available on Pixel devices from Pixel Tablet onwards1. You can enable it by tapping on the HDR+ icon in the camera app. You can also adjust the level of HDR effect by sliding the HDR+ control bar. Ultra HDR can make your photos look more realistic and vivid, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

AI-generated wallpapers and themes

Another feature of Android 14 that adds more personalization to your device is AI-generated wallpapers and themes. This feature uses artificial intelligence to create unique, customized wallpapers and themes based on your preferences and personality1.

You can access this feature by going to Settings > Display > Wallpaper & style > Wallpaper picker. You will then see a series of guided prompts that ask you to choose your favorite colors, shapes, patterns, and styles. Based on your choices, the AI will generate a wallpaper and a theme that match your taste. You can also preview and change the wallpaper and theme anytime you want.

AI-generated wallpapers and themes are coming first to Pixel devices soon1. You can also try out the demo on the Android website1.

Privacy and security enhancements

Android 14 also brings several privacy and security enhancements that give you more control over your data and device. Some of the privacy and security features of Android 14 are:

  • Data sharing details: Android 14 proactively gives you easy-to-understand information about apps’ data permissions1. You can see what data an app accesses, how often it accesses it, and why it needs it. You can also choose what access you grant to apps to keep you safe1.
  • Recommended unlock password: Android 14 strengthens your device security by recommending a 6-digit unlock password instead of a 4-digit one1. A 6-digit password is more secure and harder to guess than a 4-digit one. You can also reduce friction by enabling the option to unlock automatically once you enter the correct PIN of six digits or more1.
  • Health Connect: Android 14 introduces Health Connect, a new feature that lets you connect your favorite health and fitness apps, see your health and fitness data in one place, and stay in control of your privacy1. Health Connect is located in Settings > Health Connect. You can choose which apps you want to connect, view your data summary, and manage your permissions.

Health Connect for fitness data

Health Connect is a new feature in Android 14 that lets you connect your favorite health and fitness apps, see your health and fitness data in one place, and stay in control of your privacy1. Health Connect is located in Settings > Health Connect. You can choose which apps you want to connect, view your data summary, and manage your permissions.

Health Connect supports various types of health and fitness data, such as steps, calories, heart rate, blood pressure, sleep, weight, and more. You can also see trends and insights based on your data. For example, you can see how your sleep quality affects your mood or how your activity level affects your blood pressure.

Health Connect also respects your privacy and gives you full control over your data. You can decide which apps can access your data, how long they can access it, and what they can do with it. You can also revoke or change your permissions anytime you want.

Larger font sizes and accessibility options

Android 14 also improves the accessibility of your device by offering larger font sizes and more accessibility options. Some of the accessibility features of Android 14 are:

  • Larger font sizes: Android 14 allows you to scale font sizes up to 200% versus Android 13, which topped out at 130% on Pixels1. This makes text easier to read for people with low vision or other visual impairments. You can adjust the font size by going to Settings > Accessibility > Font size.
  • Non-linear font scaling: Android 14 also uses non-linear font scaling so that text that is already large won’t see further size increases1. This prevents text from becoming too large or overlapping with other elements on the screen. Non-linear font scaling applies to both system fonts and app fonts.
  • Accessibility menu: Android 14 adds a new accessibility menu that gives you quick access to common accessibility features such as magnification, talkback, select to speak, live transcribe, sound amplifier, switch access, voice access, color correction, color inversion, captions, dark theme, font size, display size, and accessibility shortcut. You can enable the accessibility menu by going to Settings > Accessibility > Accessibility menu.

What are the compatible devices for Android 14?

Android 14 is compatible with a wide range of devices from various brands and models. However, not all devices will receive the update at the same time or with the same features. The compatibility and availability of Android 14 depend on several factors, such as the device manufacturer, carrier, region, hardware specifications, software customizations, user preferences, and more.

The first devices to receive Android 14 are Pixel devices from Pixel 4a 5G onwards2. These devices will get the update directly from Google with all the features mentioned above. Other

Android device manufacturers will also release their own versions of Android 14 for their eligible phones later this year. Google has said that Samsung, iQOO, Nothing, OnePlus, OPPO, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, vivo, and Xiaomi will be among the first ones to roll out Android 14 updates. However, the exact timeline may vary depending on the brand and model.

You can check if your device is compatible with Android 14 by visiting the official website of your device manufacturer or by contacting their customer support. You can also check the list of devices that are expected to receive Android 14 updates on various websites and forums. However, these lists are not official and may change over time.

How to root Android 14 and install custom ROMs?

If you want to have more control over your device and customize it to your liking, you may want to root Android 14 and install custom ROMs. Rooting is the process of gaining full access to the system files and settings of your device, allowing you to modify them as you wish. Custom ROMs are alternative versions of Android that offer different features, performance, and aesthetics than the stock version.

However, rooting and installing custom ROMs are not for everyone. They require some technical knowledge and skills, and they may void your warranty, brick your device, or expose it to security risks. Therefore, you should only proceed with caution and at your own risk.

To root Android 14 and install custom ROMs, you need to follow these general steps:

  • Unlock the bootloader of your device. The bootloader is a program that runs before the operating system and determines which system files to load. Unlocking the bootloader allows you to flash custom files on your device. However, unlocking the bootloader may erase your data and disable some features such as Google Pay or Netflix.
  • Install a custom recovery on your device. A custom recovery is a program that runs after the bootloader and allows you to perform various operations on your device, such as backup, restore, wipe, flash, etc. The most popular custom recovery is TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project).
  • Download and flash the root file on your device. The root file is a file that grants you root access to your device. The most popular root file is Magisk, which is a systemless root method that does not modify the system partition and allows you to pass Google’s SafetyNet check.
  • Download and flash the custom ROM file on your device. The custom ROM file is a file that contains the alternative version of Android that you want to install on your device. There are many custom ROMs available for different devices and preferences. Some of the popular ones are LineageOS, Pixel Experience, Resurrection Remix, etc.

The exact steps and files for rooting and installing custom ROMs may vary depending on your device model and brand. Therefore, you should always follow the specific instructions

  • Flash the Android 14 GSI image file on your device using a computer. You need to unlock the bootloader of your device and install a custom recovery such as TWRP. Then you need to wipe the system partition and flash the GSI image file using the custom recovery or fastboot commands. You may also need to flash some additional files such as vendor image, boot image, or patches depending on your device.
  • Reboot your device and enjoy Android 14 GSI. You should see the Android 14 setup screen and be able to use the new features and apps. However, you may also encounter some problems or errors that prevent some functions from working properly. You can try to fix them by following some troubleshooting tips or guides from other users who have tried GSI on their devices.

How to troubleshoot common Android 14 issues?

As with any new software update, Android 14 may have some bugs and issues that can affect your device’s performance and user experience. Some of the common Android 14 issues are:

  • Battery drain: Some users have reported that their battery life has decreased after updating to Android 14. This may be due to various reasons, such as background apps, sync settings, location services, etc. You can try to fix this issue by checking your battery usage stats, optimizing your battery settings, disabling unnecessary features, or using battery saver mode.
  • Wi-Fi or Bluetooth problems: Some users have faced problems with their Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections after updating to Android 14. This may be due to compatibility issues, interference, or corrupted cache. You can try to fix this issue by restarting your device, forgetting and reconnecting the network or device, clearing the cache partition, or resetting the network settings.
  • App crashes or compatibility issues: Some users have encountered app crashes or compatibility issues after updating to Android 14. This may be due to outdated apps, insufficient storage, or permission changes. You can try to fix this issue by updating your apps, clearing the app cache and data, uninstalling and reinstalling the app, or granting the necessary permissions.

If these solutions do not work for you, you can also try to perform a factory reset on your device. However, this will erase all your data and settings, so make sure you backup your important files before doing so.

What are some tips and tricks for Android 14?

Android 14 is not only about new features and improvements. It also has some hidden tips and tricks that can make your device more fun and useful. Here are some of the tips and tricks for Android 14 that you should try:

  • Enable dark mode for all apps: Android 14 has a system-wide dark mode that changes the appearance of the UI and some apps to a dark theme. However, not all apps support dark mode natively. You can enable dark mode for all apps by going to Settings > Display > Dark theme > Force dark.
  • Use smart home controls from power menu: Android 14 lets you access and control your smart home devices from the power menu. You can turn on/off lights, adjust thermostats, lock doors, etc. with just a few taps. You can enable this feature by going to Settings > System > Gestures > Power menu > Devices.
  • Use bubbles for messaging apps: Android 14 introduces bubbles for messaging apps, which are floating icons that let you access your conversations without leaving your current app. You can reply, view attachments, send emojis, etc. with bubbles. You can enable this feature by going to Settings > Apps & notifications > Notifications > Bubbles.
  • Use live caption for media: Android 14 has a live caption feature that automatically generates captions for any media that plays on your device, such as videos, podcasts, audio messages, etc. This is useful for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, or who want to watch media without sound. You can enable this feature by going to Settings > Sound & vibration > Live caption.
  • Use nearby share for file transfer: Android 14 has a nearby share feature that lets you share files with other nearby devices that support this feature. You can share photos, videos, documents, links, etc. with nearby share. You can enable this feature by going to Settings > Google > Device connections > Nearby share.

How to stay updated with Android 14 news and development?

Android 14 is an evolving operating system that will receive regular updates and patches from Google and other device manufacturers. These updates will bring new features, improvements, bug fixes, security patches, etc. to your device.

To stay updated with Android 14 news and development, you can follow these sources:

  • The official Android website: This is the official website of Android where you can find information about the latest features, updates, tips, videos, blogs, etc. of Android 14.
  • The official Android blog: This is the official blog of Android where you can read about the latest news, announcements, stories, insights, etc. of Android 14.
  • The official Android Twitter account: This is the official Twitter account of Android where you can follow the latest tweets, posts, replies, etc. of Android 14.
  • The official Android YouTube channel: This is the official YouTube channel of Android where you can watch the latest videos, trailers, demos, tutorials, etc. of Android 14.
  • The official Android subreddit: This is the official subreddit of Android where you can join the community of Android users and enthusiasts who discuss, share, ask, answer, etc. about Android 14.

Conclusion

Android 14 is the latest version of the Android operating system that brings many new features and enhancements to your device. You can download and install Android 14 on your compatible device or try out the beta version or GSI if your device is not supported yet. You can also root Android 14 and install custom ROMs if you want to have more customization and control over your device. However, you may also face some issues or problems with Android 14 that can be fixed by following some troubleshooting tips or guides. You can also use some tips and tricks to make your device more fun and useful with Android 14. Finally, you can stay updated with Android 14 news and development by following some official and unofficial sources.

We hope this article has helped you learn everything you need to know about Android 14. If you have any questions or feedback, please let us know in the comments below.

FAQs

How can I check if my device has received the Android 14 update?

You can check if your device has received the Android 14 update by going to Settings > System > System update.

How can I backup my data before updating to Android 14?

You can backup your data before updating to Android 14 by using Google’s backup service or a third-party app such as Titanium Backup or Helium.

How can I downgrade from Android 14 to a previous version of Android?

You can downgrade from Android 14 to a previous version of Android by flashing the factory image or OTA image of the previous version on your device using a computer. However, this may erase your data and settings, so make sure you backup your important files before doing so.

How can I customize my device with Android 14?

You can customize your device with Android 14 by using various settings, features, apps, widgets, wallpapers, themes, etc. that are available on your device or on the Google Play Store.

How can I improve the performance and battery life of my device with Android 14?

You can improve the performance and battery life of your device with Android 14 by optimizing your settings, disabling unnecessary features, clearing cache and data, uninstalling unused apps, using battery saver mode, etc.

Android 14: Everything You Need to Know About the Latest OS Upgrade Read More »

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