Typically, Google shows off its next generation of devices in the fall. But this year it seems that time frame has moved up: the company's next Made by Google event will be August 13 at 1PM ET.
While Google didn't share any specific details regarding upcoming announcements, the invite says the company will "showcase the best of Google AI, Android software and the Pixel portfolio of devices." In another break from tradition, this year's event will take place at Google's headquarters in Mountain View, CA instead of New York City, which has been the typical host location for Pixel launches.
Based on rumors and the release cadence of Google's existing devices, we're expecting to learn more about the Pixel 9, the next version of the Pixel Fold, a new Tensor chip, a third-gen Pixel Watch and possibly an update to the Pixel Buds. And based on the amount of attention the company gave to AI during Google I/O earlier this spring, it's basically a guarantee that we'll see some new machine learning-based features as well.
While it remains unclear what prompted Google to move its next product launch up to August 13, between this event and rumors of an upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event, it's shaping up to be a busy summer for gadget fans.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/made-by-googles-next-event-will-be-august-13-165538940.html?src=rss
The original Razr was always sort of a style icon. It was super thin (almost to a fault) and looked more like a prop from a sci-fi movie than all its brick-shaped rivals at the time. And with the launch of a new generation of its signature flip phone later this summer, it feels like Moto is trying to recapture some of that magic with the 2024 Razr family.
Just like last year, the Razr line is split between two devices: the flagship Razr+, which starts at $1,000, and a more affordable non-plus model that starts at $700. That said, Motorola has made some significant changes to help close the gap between the two phones. Both of them feature a 6.9-inch flexible OLED interior display with a 165Hz refresh rate for the Razr+ and a 120Hz panel on the standard version. Meanwhile, on the outside, Moto created a new hinge it claims is 30 percent smaller, while also increasing the size of the front display (which is covered by Gorilla Glass Victus for added durability).
Both versions of the 2024 Razr have larger exterior displays. The easiest way to tell them apart is that the standard Razr (left) has a small body-colored strip below its screen while the Razr+ (right) has a larger 4-inch panel.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
The Razr+'s exterior OLED screen now measures 4 inches across, which is up from 3.6 inches on last year’s model. However, the basic Razr has made an even bigger jump by replacing the tiny 1.5-inch panel on its predecessor with a new 3.6-inch display. But Moto didn’t stop there. Thanks to an update to its Panels UI, you can open basically any app on the Razrs’ front display, with the only exceptions being apps that require specific (i.e. larger) resolutions. But perhaps the biggest improvement for overall usability is that both handsets now also feature IPX8 ratings for water-resistance (up from IP52), which is tested to withstand dunks of up to 5 feet for 30 minutes.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Razr without some fashionable color options and for 2024, Motorola is definitely delivering on that. The Razr+ will be available in Midnight Blue, Spring Green, Hot Pink (which is an homage to the vibrant magenta version of the OG Razr) and Peach Fuzz, with the latter being Pantone’s 2024 color of the year. Meanwhile, the standard Razr comes in three colors: Koala Gray, Beach Sand and a particularly eye-catching hue that Moto is calling Spritz Orange. Notably, every one of those options features a vegan leather back aside from the gray model. That comes in vegan suede instead, which sort of feels like silicone but with an ever softer finish. Whichever finish you choose, both options are a nice departure from the glass backs you get on pretty much every other phone these days.
For snapping photos, both devices feature a 32-MP punch-hole selfie camera on the inside along with a 50-MP main camera on the outside and either a 2x telephoto cam on the Razr+ or an ultra-wide lens on the standard Razr. Moto says it also updated the Camcorder feature so that it automatically activates when you bend the screen and rotate the phone 90 degrees, which should make switching between photo and video a bit more seamless.
As for software, Moto is jumping on the AI bandwagon with its own series of AI-powered features. The Razr supports Google Gemini (including three free months of Gemini Advanced with purchase) along with the company’s own Moto AI tools. This includes things like Magic Canvas, which allows you to generate images using text prompts and the nifty Style Sync mode, which lets you take a photo of your clothing so you can create a matching wallpaper for use on the device, which feels like a small but thoughtful addition for fashionistas that don’t want their phone to clash with their outfit.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
Later this year, Moto is adding even more AI tools including Catch Me Up which can summarize all your notifications so you don’t have to swipe through everything individually after being away for a while. But the feature that might have the most impact is Remember This. With it, you can ask Moto AI to record a photo, screenshot or audio and then repeat important details back to you later when you ask. That said, you have to first prompt the Razrs to do this, and unlike Microsoft’s Copilot feature Recall, the phones only save what you tell them to instead of saving and tracking everything you do.
Finally, powering the Razr+ is a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip along with 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage and a 4,000 mAh battery, the latter of which is slightly larger than the 3,700mAh cell in a Galaxy Z Flip 5. Meanwhile, the vanilla Razr features still solid but less impressive specs, including a MediaTek Dimensity 7300X processor, 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It does come with a slightly larger 4,200 mAh power pack, though.
First impressions of the Moto Razr and Razr+
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
While I only had a short while to play around with both devices, I really like what Moto has done with the Razr’s design and software. The exterior feels more luxurious thanks to that vegan leather/suede back and the larger front display supports a wider range of apps and makes better use of space. And while AI has become a bit of a buzzword these days, it feels like Moto is taking a more considered approach with features like Style Sync and Remember This, which are fun or helpful additions that don’t feel too intrusive.
However, I do have some small complaints as well. I wish the Razr’s main cameras were positioned on the left instead of the right. The reason is that if you’re right-handed (which accounts for around 90 percent of people), the way the lens housing protrudes can sometimes get in the way of your thumb. I also think the Razr’s hinge could be a touch stiffer, as its screen doesn’t feel quite as stable as rivals like the Z Flip 5. And while Motorola says the phone will receive three major Android OS upgrades and four years of software support, that’s still way short of the seven years you get from recent Samsung and Google phones.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
Lastly, while there is still a crease in the internal display, it’s so faint that it’s really more of a shallow ripple that you only see at acute angles. Motorola says the Razr’s new hinge creates more of a waterdrop-shaped fold when closed, which helps reduce the appearance of creases. After seeing the devices up close, I have to say it’s not distracting at all. But the best part is that with the basic Razr starting at just $700 and the flagship model going for $1,000, we’re getting more foldable phones with solid water resistance and good builds for a reasonable price.
The Razr and Razr+ will be available for pre-order starting on July 10 with official sales slated for July 24.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/motorolas-2024-razr-and-razr-might-be-the-most-stylish-and-affordable-foldables-of-the-year-160024366.html?src=rss
One of my favorite PC trends has been the explosion of gaming handhelds. Even after big names like ASUS and Lenovo entered the market last year with the ROG Ally and Legion Go, more manufacturers continue to join the fray. But with the Claw A1M, MSI is taking the road less traveled by opting for an Intel chip instead of something from AMD. And that has made all the difference, even if many of those changes are not for the better.
Design and display - Straightforward but effective
While MSI may have zagged with the Claw’s processor, its design is incredibly familiar. That’s because aside from being black instead of white, it almost looks like a carbon copy of the ROG Ally. That said, a few subtle changes have a bit of an impact. The Claw’s grips are more pronounced, so it’s more comfortable to hold, while its rear paddles are smaller and located a bit further down so there’s less of a chance you press them by accident.
MSI also opted for Hall effect joysticks, so they are a touch more precise and should wear better over time. However, the springs inside are rather light, so they don’t feel quite as tight as I typically prefer. Unfortunately, while its triggers are nice, the Claw’s bumpers are a bit too spongy.
Meanwhile, nearly the entire rear panel on the Claw is vented to provide ample room for cooling. And along the top there’s a built-in microSD card reader, 3.5mm audio jack, a volume rocker and a single USB-C port with support for Thunderbolt 4. That last one is a very nice inclusion as it's fast enough to hook up peripherals like an external GPU dock. I just wish there were two of them so I had a spare slot for accessories.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
Of course, in the middle there’s a 7-inch 1080p IPS LCD display. It’s relatively colorful and with a tested brightness of around 450 nits, it’s easy to view even in sunnier rooms (though direct sunlight is still an issue). However, aside from a 120Hz refresh rate, there’s not much else going on. There’s no variable refresh rate to help reduce tearing in more modern games and it can’t match the size or more saturated hues of the Legion Go’s 8.8-inch OLED panel. And while this isn’t really a design consideration, with the Claw priced at $750, I wish MSI shipped it with an included case like Lenovo does with the Legion.
Performance - Keeping up, but just barely
Here’s where things get a bit tricky, because at least on paper, the Claw is pretty well-equipped. Our review unit features an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H CPU with Arc graphics, 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. There is also a less expensive model with an Intel Core Ultra 5 135H chip and a 512GB SSD. Unfortunately, the Claw’s real-world performance lags behind MSI’s claims and rival handhelds. Back at CES 2024, MSI touted that the Claw would be 20 to 25 percent faster than AMD-based alternatives. But no matter what I do or how much time I spend tweaking settings, I simply can’t produce numbers anywhere in that ballpark.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
In Shadow of the Tomb Raider at 1280 x 720, high graphics and in Balanced Mode (30 watts), the Claw hit 52 fps, which is slightly behind the 54 fps I got from the ROG Ally at just 15 watts. To make matters a bit worse, those numbers didn’t improve much when I switched to the Claw’s 35-watt Extreme Performance setting, which only bumped the framerate up to 59 fps compared to 60 fps for the Ally when set to 25 watts. So despite running at a higher TDP (total device power), the Claw is just barely keeping up.
It’s a similar story in other titles too. In Cyberpunk 2077 at 720p on medium graphics, the Claw hit 50 fps in Balanced mode, which is the same as the Ally. Finally, in Returnal at 720p on medium, it was essentially a tie again with the Claw hitting 32 fps versus 33 fps for the Ally. Overall, the Claw’s performance isn’t bad, but it’s not as prodigious as MSI promised.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
The underlying issue seems to be the Claw’s optimization and graphics drivers. I’ve been using the Claw for about a month, and in that time it’s gotten a ton of updates including two or three BIOS flashes and a seemingly endless number of new graphics drivers. There was even one in late May that boosted performance by as much as 30 percent in some titles. So just imagine how rough performance was at launch earlier this spring.
In some respects, this level of support is reassuring because it shows Intel’s commitment to improving the graphics on its latest chips. That said, the Claw has been on the market since as early as April depending on the market, so it clearly wasn’t ready at launch and its performance continues to be a work in progress.
Battery life - Nothing special
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
With a 53Wh cell, there was hope the Claw could provide significantly longer runtimes than the Ally and its smaller 40Wh power pack. But because of the Claw’s higher TDP, the difference in real-world longevity isn’t quite as pronounced. When I played Diablo IV on medium graphics, the Claw lasted an hour and 43 minutes, which is 12 minutes better than the Ally’s time of 1:31, but more than 20 minutes less than the Steam Deck’s mark of 2:07.
Software - Clunky at best
One of the biggest issues with Windows-based handhelds is that while they are great for gaming, doing anything else without an external mouse or keyboard can be a chore. Windows 11 generally works as you’d expect, but the MSI Center app feels much less polished. Similar to ASUS’ Armoury Crate, MSI Center is meant to be a one-stop shop for launching games, tweaking settings and downloading updates. And while it works, it just feels clunky. The app often stutters when you open it and I ran into a couple of instances when patches stalled while trying to update software.
Wrap-up
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
Ultimately, timing may be the Claw’s biggest enemy. If it had come out last year when the ROG Ally and Legion Go hit the market, the Claw may have been a more interesting rival. But ASUS is about to release a successor to the Ally – the Ally X – next month with a completely redesigned chassis, 24GB of RAM and a huge 80Wh battery. That leaves the Claw in a really tight spot. And our top-spec review unit costs $750, which is $100 to $200 more than an equivalent ROG Ally (albeit with half the storage) and has basically the same performance and an almost identical design.
Meanwhile, thanks to recent price cuts, the Claw is also more expensive than the Legion Go, but doesn’t have the OLED screen, kickstand and detachable controllers found in Lenovo’s handheld. This doesn’t even factor in Intel’s drivers, which clearly weren’t ready at launch and even now after multiple updates, don’t offer a significant advantage in performance. But the Claw’s biggest opponent may be MSI itself, because while we’re still waiting on an official release date, the company has already announced a successor in the Claw 8 AI+. The Claw isn’t a bad handheld gaming PC; it just arrived too late and without the tuning it needed.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/msi-claw-a1m-review-a-touch-late-and-bit-too-pricey-143009327.html?src=rss
When I’m traveling, a portable mouse is a must. However, I’ve never really felt the same way about keyboards, because most portable options are still too big or are saddled with some major compromises in the name of lightness. But with the Keys-To-Go 2, Logitech has managed to create a super sleek typing accessory that disappears into your bag and can be paired with almost any device you can think of.
Design and features
Those who like traveling light can always opt for something like an iPad Pro or Surface Pro, which can be paired with their own dedicated detachable keyboards. The issue is that those devices aren’t really much smaller or lighter than an equivalent laptop. But with the Keys-To-Go 2 measuring just 7.8 ounces and a third of an inch at its thickest point, you get a truly pint-sized companion that’s perfect for pairing with smaller devices like an iPad Mini or my personal favorite, a foldable phone.
Obviously, a keyboard this thin doesn’t have a ton of space for fancy switches. But Logitech somehow found enough room for 1.1mm of key travel. When combined with rubber domes beneath the keys, you end up with a typing experience that’s not that far off from what you get on a modern MacBook. Granted, actuation is a bit softer and spongier, but on something this small, it’s understandable.
I also appreciate that despite its size, the Keys-To-Go 2 still features a full row of productivity shortcuts for stuff like volume, brightness, play/pause and even Logitech’s signature emoji key. That last one feels right at home when you're using the keyboard with a phone or tablet. You even get three Easy-Switch keys that allow you to change the keyboard’s Bluetooth connection between up to three devices with a single touch.
The Keys-To-Go 2 is available in three colors: lilac (seen here), pale gray and graphite.
Photo by Sam Rutherford
Speaking of connected devices, the Keys-To-Go 2 works with practically any gadget you might want to bring on a trip. It supports Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, iPadOS and even ChromeOS. Plus, there are two different layouts to choose from: a universal arrangement for all OSes (which is what I tested) and one that’s tailored for Apple devices. Finally, there’s a built-in cover that protects the keycaps while on the go, which also flips around 360 degrees to provide a slight angle for improved ergonomics when typing.
However, I wish Logitech had included some kind of onboard kickstand for propping up whatever device the keyboard is connected to. When I had a chance to talk to some of Logitech’s designers, they said they learned from customer surveys that most people who need a kickstand already have one attached to the case of their phone or tablet, which would make putting one on the Keys-To-Go 2 redundant. But as someone who loathes cases and doesn’t want to deal with a ton of addons, I think putting a stand in the keyboard would still be valuable.
Battery life
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
Logitech claims the Keys-To-Go 2 offers up to 36 months of battery life, but real-world numbers will vary greatly depending on how much you use it. That’s because that figure is based on the expectation that you only use the keyboard for two hours a day, which isn’t a lot but makes sense for something that probably isn’t your primary work machine.
The potentially bigger issue is that the Keys-To-Go 2 relies on a pair of disposable coin-cell batteries instead of a rechargeable power pack. Furthermore, to access the batteries, you need to remove two Torx screws, which could be an issue if the keyboard dies while you’re traveling. In a perfect world, the Keys-To-Go 2 would also support charging via USB-C. But given its dimensions, finding room for any port may have been exceedingly difficult.
Wrap-up
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
Now I admit, the Keys-To-Go 2 is a rather niche device. Its replaceable batteries and lack of ports for charging or wired connectivity means it can’t really be your primary workhorse. And its thinness means typing isn’t as comfortable as on a traditional desktop alternative. But at the same time, Logitech’s latest travel accessory excels at being a lightweight travel companion. It’s super thin, super light and has a nifty cover to keep it protected while in transit. It works with multiple devices and OSes, and while relying on coin cells isn’t ideal, its battery life is long enough to make replacing them a relatively infrequent hassle. With two layouts (Apple and universal), multi-device connectivity and a price tag of just $80, the Keys-To-Go 2 feels like it’s hitting a Goldilocks zone for frequent travelers looking for something that’s just right for their next trip.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/logitech-keys-to-go-2-review-a-super-slim-travel-companion-for-almost-any-gadget-070150717.html?src=rss
Yesterday, following Apple’s announcement of a partnership with OpenAI to integrate support for ChatGPT into the company’s devices, Elon Musk did what he always does: he tweeted. The owner of X wrote, on X, that he would ban Apple devices at his companies "If Apple integrates OpenAI at the OS level." And to that I say: Go right ahead. And while you’re at it, remove your company's software from Apple’s App Store too.
Musk’s companies (at least the major ones) currently include Tesla, SpaceX, X, X AI and Neuralink. Even if we’re just talking about phones — which according to Counterpoint Research Apple currently has a 52 percent market share in the US — around 80,000 of Musk’s 155,000 employees would be subject to the ban, if general statistics hold true. And that’s not counting anyone who uses a Mac computer or iPad. (Note: The lion’s share of these workers would be at Tesla, which employs around 140,000 people.)
And visitors will have to check their Apple devices at the door, where they will be stored in a Faraday cage
Now as we’ve seen with staff reductions at X and Tesla, Musk's management style might best be described as "willing to shoot himself in the foot." But subjecting more than half of his staff to a ban covering one of the most popular gadget makers in the world seems especially obtuse. Yes, all of this would be a headache (especially for the poor souls on his IT teams). But what's truly at issue is that, if Elon truly cares about security, he's only proposing a half-measure.
Why stop at just banning Apple devices? Surely, the apps his companies makes for iOS are in jeopardy as well. So why not pull the apps for X, Tesla and all the others from Apple’s App Store? That would offer even more insulation against the threat of OpenAI, would it not?
It’s patently absurd that Apple isn’t smart enough to make their own AI, yet is somehow capable of ensuring that OpenAI will protect your security & privacy!
Apple has no clue what’s actually going on once they hand your data over to OpenAI. They’re selling you down the river.
Some of the stronger students here, I'm sure, have had their hands raised by now. "But if the problem is that ChatGPT is integrated at the OS level, shouldn't that also mean Musk's companies would be barred from using Windows?" How right you are. And as a man of conviction, I fully expect Elon will ban those machines from his workplaces as well. I suspect his engineers will have a relatively painless time calculating the trajectory of spaceships into orbit on a Ti-83.
Musk followed up his statements by saying “It’s patently absurd that Apple isn’t smart enough to make their own AI, yet is somehow capable of ensuring that OpenAI will protect your security & privacy! Apple has no clue what’s actually going on once they hand your data over to OpenAI. They’re selling you down the river.”
To no surprise, that statement does not accurately describe Apple and OpenAI’s partnership, which readers quickly pointed out using X’s additional context feature. (On Musk’s own website no less, oh the ignominy!) Apple says it will have its own AI models that will either run on-device or in a private compute cloud, and will only send data to OpenAI with a user’s explicit permission on a strict opt-in basis. So despite Musk's claims, there doesn’t seem to be a lot of trickery there.
The bottom line is that, as the founder and CEO of a handful of companies, Musk can do what he wants. And in this case, I encourage Elon to follow through. Show us that your posts aren’t a bluff, as some are already claiming. It’s time to fuck around and find out.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/hey-elon-go-ahead-and-ban-apple-devices-211521967.html?src=rss
Currently, Unicode 15.1 supports just shy of 3,800 various emoji. But for everyone out there that for some reason thinks that's not nearly enough, today at WWDC 2024, Apple announced the ability to use AI to generate unique emoji based on your prompts.
Called Genmoji, which looks to be an awful portmanteu of the words "generate" and "emoji," these new creations are powered by Apple Intelligence, which is a new collection of AI features coming to the iPhone, iPad and Mac sometime later this year. Similar to creating images with services like Midjourney and Dall-E, users will be able to whip up custom emoji by inputting specific prompts. Once made, they can be shared with others as stickers, reactions in a Tapback or simply embedded in-line in messages.
Apple
While the feature isn't expected to be officially available until later this fall, there don't seem to be any major limitations to what you can dream up. In a teaser at WWDC, Apple showed examples like a smiley face with cucumbers over its eyes and a T-rex riding a skateboard while wearing a tutu. That said knowing Apple, there is sure to be some restrictions for Genmoji made using more graphic prompts like guns or blood.
Now on some level, it could be fun to razz your friends with Genmoji based on their latest mishap. But at the same time, part of the magic of emoji has always been being able to convey a message using the limited number of icons while still getting your point across. Also, it's truly hard to imagine how much added value a bagel with lox Genmoji (see the lead picture above) provides compared to the classic image. But since AI is so hot right now, seeing Apple Intelligence get applied to emoji was probably an inevitability. 🤷♂️
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/in-case-there-werent-enough-emoji-already-apples-genmoji-uses-ai-to-generate-even-more-200011608.html?src=rss
To start, iPadOS is getting deeper customization options for your home screen including the ability to put app icons pretty much wherever you want. Apple's Control Center has also been expanded with support for creating multiple lists and views, resizing and rearranging icons and more. There's also a new floating tab bar that makes it easy to navigate between apps, which can be further tuned to remember your favorites. Next, SharePlay is getting the ability to draw diagrams on someone else's iPad or control someone else's device remotely (with permission) for times like when you need to help troubleshoot.
Apple
After years of requests, the iPad is also getting its own version of the Calculator app, which includes a new Math Notes feature that supports the Apple Pencil and the ability to input handwritten formulas. Math Notes will even update formulas in real time or you can save them in case you want to revisit things later. Alternatively, the Smart Script tool in the Notes app uses machine learning to make your notes less messy and easier to edit.
General privacy is also being upgraded with a new feature that lets you lock an app. This allows a friend or family member to borrow your device without giving them full access to everything on your tablet. Alternatively, there’s also a new hidden apps folder so you can stash sensitive software in a more secretive way.
Apple
In Messages, Tapbacks are now compatible with all your emoji. Furthermore, you'll be able to schedule messages or send texts via satellite in case you aren't currently connected to Wi-Fi or a cellular network. Apple even says messages sent using satellite will feature end-to-end encryption.
The Mail and Photos apps are also getting similarly big revamps. Mail will feature new categorizations meant to make it easier to find specific types of offers or info (like plane flights). Meanwhile, the Photos app will sport an updated UI that will help you view specific types of images while hiding things like screenshots. And to better surface older photos and memories, there will be new categories like Recent Days and People and Pets to put similar types of pics all in a single collection.
Audio controls on iPads is also getting a boost with a new ability for Siri to understand gestures for “Yes” and “No” by either shaking or nodding your head while wearing AirPods. This should make it easier to provide Apple's digital assistant with simple responses in areas like a crowded bus or quiet waiting room where you might be uncomfortable talking aloud.
Apple
However, the biggest addition this year is that alongside all the iPad-specific features, Apple’s tablet OS is also getting Apple Intelligence. This covers many of the company’s new AI-powered features like the ability to create summaries of websites, proofread or rewrite emails or even generate new art based on your prompts.
Apple says that to make its AI more useful, features will be more personalized and contextual. That said, to help protect your privacy and security, the company claims it won’t build profiles or sell data to outside parties. Generally, Apple says it will use on-device processing for most of its tools, though some features require help from the cloud.
As its iconic digital assistant, Siri is getting a big refresh via Apple Intelligence too. This includes better natural language recognition and the ability to understand and remember context from one query to another. Siri will also be able to help you use your device, allowing you to ask your tablet how to perform certain tasks, search for files or control apps and features using your voice.
Apple
Some examples of what Apple Intelligence can do is highlight priority emails and put them at the top of your inbox so you don't miss important messages or events. Or if you're feeling more creative, you can use AI to create unique emoji (called Genmoji). And in photos, Apple Intelligence can help you edit images with things like the Clean Up tool. And for those who want the freedom to use other AI models, Apple is adding the option to integrate other services, the first of which will be Chat GPT.
Finally, other minor updates including a new Passwords app for stashing credentials across apps and websites, a new dedicated Game Mode with personalized spatial audio, expanded hiking results in Apple Maps and a new eye-tracking feature for improved accessibility.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ipados-18s-smart-script-uses-machine-learning-to-make-your-handwriting-less-horrible-175306533.html?src=rss
After getting officially announced way back at CES 2024, all of Samsung’s new 2024 gaming monitors are finally available for pre-order today. However, while the massive 49-inch Odyssey G9 (G95SD) garnered most of the attention when initial details came out in January, I recently had a chance to check out its smaller siblings in person (plus one of Samsung’s new smart monitors), which are just as impressive due to their lower prices and more-practical screen sizes.
Similar to the Alienware AW3225QF and HP Omen Transcend 32, the 2024 Odyssey G8 OLED (G80SD) and Odyssey G6 OLED (G60SD) are based on Samsung’s third-gen QD-OLED tech. That means you get rich colors and deep blacks along with support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and increased brightness compared to traditional OLED displays. But from there, the two monitors diverge slightly with the 32-inch G8 being more of an all-rounder thanks to its 4K resolution and 240Hz refresh rate. Meanwhile, the smaller G6 is better suited for competitive gaming with its 2,560 x 1,440 resolution and 360Hz refresh rate.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
My favorite of the two is the G8, as it features a flat display (not curved like the Alienware) with an anti-reflective matte coating and an extremely sleek design that lets you appreciate its super-thin 0.15-inch panel. Meanwhile, Samsung has equipped both the G8 and G6 with a dynamic cooling system that better reduces temperatures and can even preemptively control brightness if needed. And, for the first time, Samsung is offering a three-year warranty in case the monitor succumbs to burn-in.
I also appreciate that even though it’s a relatively large monitor, the G8 supports height adjustment and the ability to rotate into portrait mode. As a nod towards convenience, it comes with built-in stereo speakers and a solar remote (similar to what you get from Samsung’s flagship TVs), so you can easily connect it to gaming consoles alongside a traditional PC. And in case that’s not enough, the G8 also features Samsung’s Gaming Hub, which allows you to access streaming services like NVIDIA GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud Gaming without needing to connect to another device.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
Alternatively, for more hardcore gamers, the G6 packs almost all of the same tech (including the remote and matte coating) into an even more practical 27-inch display. You still get Samsung’s CoreLighting+ module in back to supply some ambient RGB hues and a similarly sleek metal design. Samsung even redesigned the G8 and G6’s feet to give people with unusual gaming setups more flexibility and room to position their mouse and keyboard.
Finally, while it’s neither OLED nor a gaming display, Samsung’s M80D Smart Monitor is a neat take on 4K office productivity. It features a magnetic mount for a detachable webcam, so you can easily position it without the need for a tripod or quickly remove it at the end of a video call. You can also pair it over Wi-Fi with other Samsung devices, allowing you to easily move images or files from one to another. Just like the G8 and G6, it supports Samsung’s Gaming Hub and the ability to stream shows from apps like Netflix natively on the monitor.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
The G9 remains the true flagship of Samsung’s gaming monitors, but the company has now made great options at smaller sizes too. The Odyssey G8 and G6 will start at $1,300 and $900, respectively, while the M80D Smart Monitor will go for $700. Pre-orders go live today and will come with a $300 discount for anyone who makes an early purchase before official sales begin later this month.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/samsungs-odyssey-g8-might-be-the-best-32-inch-gaming-monitor-of-the-year-140026504.html?src=rss
A long time ago I watched a video about John Nese, owner of the iconic Galco’s Soda Pop Stop in LA, and one thing that stuck with me was his response after being asked how much soda he drinks. Nese said that even though he’ll have one or two a day, what it really boils down to is that he “just likes the bubbles.” However, as much as I enjoy hunting down special flavors in stores, nothing beats the convenience of making your own sparkling concoctions at home. So when I heard that Breville was releasing a carbonated beverage maker with a feature not available from rivals like SodaStream I knew I wanted to test it out. And in just a few short weeks, the Infizz Fusion has quickly become one of my favorite and most-used kitchen gadgets.
Design — Expectedly upscale
At $250, the InFizz Fusion costs a lot more than basic soda water makers, which can go for $100 or less. However, it’s clear Breville is using that extra money to create a premium design including a stainless body with a die-cast lever and a magnetic drip tray. This means it’s closer to more premium rivals than plasticky alternatives like almost all of SodaStream’s offerings. And while your taste may vary, the InFizz and Aarke’s line or Carbonators are probably the only two that look good enough to live on my counter full-time instead of being hidden away when not in use. That said, I wish Breville would release an optional glass bottle, as currently the InFizz Fusion is restricted to plastic 0.6- and 1-liter containers. And because its bottles use a proprietary connector, you can’t swap in canisters from competitors.
Operation — The easiest bubbles you’ve ever made
Gassing up liquids with the InFizz is incredibly straightforward. First, you screw a one-pound CO2 tank into the hole on the boom. The InFizz comes with one Breville-branded canister, though you can use generic replacements from Sodastream and others. You just need to remember to buy tanks with threaded tops instead of ones with quick-connect fittings. Then you pour water into the bottle (the colder the better), attach Breville’s FusionCap and then twist the whole setup into the machine itself. From there, you just press the lever on top for a second or two and that’s it. There’s no need for power or to plug a cord, so you have tons of flexibility about where it’ll live in your kitchen.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
When attaching the FusionCap to the bottle or the bottle to the machine, there’s a very obvious and satisfying thunk that lets you know when each component is seated properly. I only had one blowout when I first started using the InFizz and after I learned from my mistake, it never happened again. I found the routine that worked best for me was to fill the bottle and then stash it in the fridge overnight, which made it a cinch to get crisp, chilled seltzer first thing in the morning in less than 30 seconds. It’s really that easy. Sometimes, I saw tiny ice cubes while I was carbonating, which I took as a sign that the water was cold enough. That said, it’s important not to add ice intentionally, as that can damage the machine.
One note is that before you use it, you will want to give it a rinse. After unboxing it, I noticed the InFizz Fusion’s bottle had an oily smell. Thankfully, alongside the InFizz itself, Breville includes a funnel, a strainer and a brush, the latter of which helped erase the odor after a quick wash.
How it tastes - Bubbles, bubbles everywhere
Like a lot of carbonated water makers, you have the freedom to hold the lever down a bit longer, in case you’re like me and you like big bodacious bubbles (similar to what you get in Pepsi) as opposed to the finer effervescence you get in something like Perrier. But the InFizz Fusion’s secret party trick is that it carbonates more than just water. You can add bubbles to cider for a refreshing twist on a fall treat. Or you can give new life to soda that’s gone flat. You can even uplift wine to create your own sparkling alternative in your kitchen. Pretty much any liquid you’d want to drink, the InFizz Fusion can inject with bubbles. And right now, there’s only one other home soda maker that can do this – the Drinkmate – which puts Breville’s machine in a more rarified crowd.
To add bubbles, all you have to do is attach Breville's FusionCap to the included bottle, hook that up to the machine itself and hold down on the lever for a second or two.
Photo by Sam Rutherford
Now this might not sound like a big deal, but as we get closer to summer, you know what’s even more refreshing than lemonade? An icy cold glass of sparkling lemonade. Alternatively, you can add bubbles to OJ, which is essentially a homemade version of Orangina, and I’d argue it tastes even better because it hasn’t been languishing in a bottle for the past few months. With the InFizz Fusion, there’s an entire world of things you can seltzerize.
At this point, you might be wondering why you can’t make lemonade from seltzer. And you can. However, if you make sparkling water first and then stir in lemon juice and sugar, you tend to knock a lot of bubbles out in the process. And for stuff like OJ, unless you’re making things from a concentrate, there may not be a way to start with pure water. The one thing you have to watch out for though is that when carbonating drinks that are more than just water, you may run into extra bubbles. But that’s where the red tab on the FusionCap comes in, as it allows you to release pressure slowly so your concoction doesn’t erupt and make a mess.
Breville's clever FusionCap is what allows the InFizz to carbonate almost any drink you can think of. It can handle drinks like orange juice or lemonade with ease without getting the inside of the machine dirty.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
That said, some drinks work better than others. Milk-based beverages are pretty much a no-go, as the carbonation process curdles the dairy, resulting in a product that just tastes off. And while you can add bubbles to coffee, the CO2 adds an extra dimension of sourness that probably isn’t what you want. After all, there’s a reason effervescent java is usually injected with nitrogen instead of carbon dioxide.
My one suggestion is that in addition to the one-liter bottle that comes with the machine, if you’re into making all sorts of bubbly beverages, you may want to pick up a spare 0.6-liter container too, because as tasty as stuff like sparkling OJ or cider are, they’re typically better consumed in smaller doses lest you end up drinking too many empty calories.
Wrap-up
There are few things more refreshing than a glass of sparkling lemonade on a hot summer day.
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
Look, if all you want is a machine for making seltzer, you’ll probably be better off with a basic SodaStream. Alternatively, if you just want a more premium bubble machine that comes with the bonus of having optional glass bottles, Aarke’s Carbonator Pro makes for a solid upgrade pick. Or you could go with the InFizz Aqua, which is the same basic device as the Fusion except that it can only carbonate water. But if you want a device that can turn almost any drink into a sparkling treat while also sporting an upscale design, Breville’s InFizz Fusion is where it’s at.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/breville-infizz-fusion-review-the-bubble-master-173216954.html?src=rss
ASUS was the first major PC maker to try its hand at making a gaming handheld. And despite a few issues like a wonky microSD card reader, the ROG Ally succeeded at giving people a powerful way to take their games on the go. But after about a year on the market, ASUS’ portable is getting a major revamp and it feels like it’s becoming the device we wanted all along.
Now just to be clear, the Ally X isn’t a true sequel to the original, it’s more of a mid-cycle refresh similar to what Nintendo did for the Switch back in 2019. Except I’d argue ASUS has done more to boost the new model’s capabilities. That’s because while the Ally X has the same Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip and 7-inch 120Hz LCD screen used in its predecessor, nearly everything else on the system has been tweaked or improved in some way.
Inside, ASUS doubled the size of the Ally X’s battery to a whopping 80Wh, up from 40Wh on the old model. Same goes for storage, with the handheld featuring a 1TB M.2 SSD (up from 512GB). Unlike before, it’s a full-size 2280 module, so anyone planning on adding a larger drive later on will have lots of options for third-party add-ons. Even its memory is getting a big bump up to 24GB (up from 16GB) of faster LPDDR5X 75000 RAM. And to keep everything cooled properly, ASUS installed a new fan system that the company says is 23 percent smaller while delivering 24 percent better airflow.
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
Now all this would be a more-than-welcome change, especially when it comes to performance and battery life. But ASUS didn’t stop there. The Ally X also features a new black exterior and it’s a touch thicker than before, which allows for more pronounced grips and a slightly more ergonomic button layout. There’s also a new precision D-Pad, which is something I’m happy to see as the previous one felt a bit numb and spongy. And while ASUS didn’t opt for Hall Effect joysticks, the company says it switched to stiffer springs, which should increase durability and make them feel more responsive.
Finally, around back, the Ally X features smaller rear paddles that should be harder to press by accident. However, one of my favorite changes is that in addition to a new third vent on top, ASUS also ditched its proprietary XG mobile connector in favor of a second USB-C port. And because this one supports both USB 4 and Thunderbolt 4, it’s fast enough to use with an external GPU (if you’re into that kind of thing) while leaving the other jack open for charging or other wired accessories.
In a lot of ways, it feels like ASUS has finally made the Ally X the handheld I wanted all along. The bigger battery solves one of the main issues with the previous model, which often conked out after a little more than an hour when playing modern games. Then there’s the addition of a second USB-C port, which makes the system a lot more versatile and better equipped to pull double duty as a pseudo desktop in a pinch. And I can’t say enough about the larger grips. That’s because even though the X is only a few millimeters thicker than before, it’s way more comfortable, which is obviously super important for any handheld device.
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
But potentially the biggest impact of all this is that ASUS is turning its first mover's advantage into an even bigger lead. Because while rivals like the Legion Go are still on their first model (not to mention others like the MSI Claw that arrived way late to the party, stayed tuned for my review coming coon), ASUS is already iterating on its handheld. And that’s coming from a device with a solid foundation. For anyone who has been as enamored with the recent wave of gaming handhelds as I have, it’s really encouraging to see these devices mature so quickly. Plus, starting at $800, which is just $100 more than the original Ally, the Ally X feels very reasonably priced.
The ROG Ally X is available for pre-order today from Best Buy, with official sales set to begin sometime in July.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-asus-rog-ally-x-improves-on-the-original-in-all-the-right-ways-090008278.html?src=rss