Friday, April 26, 2024

Reviews

HP Dragonfly Pro review: a strong debut

The HP Dragonfly Pro is a premium modern laptop with speed, a solid built, and great battery life. It's held back only by its low-resolution display.

HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook review: fast, modern, and helpful

The HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook is an incredibly fast and well-built machine, stocked with modern components. It's expensive, but comes with 24/7 live support.

Review: Morphée Zen

The Morphée Zen is a portable device designed for helping users to relax and de-stress. With no displays or screens to distract, it’s as simple as plugging in headphones and choosing from 72 different sessions spanning six themes. The internal battery is good for up to 90 minutes per charge with sessions ranging from two to five minutes each.Read on to learn more or check out the podcast (also embedded below) to see what we thought of the Morphée Zen.Noteworthy FeaturesIncludes 72 sessions over six themes (Deep Relaxation, Immersive Journeys, Dynamic Relaxation, Sounds of Nature, Relaxing Music, Chrono Zen)Male and female voicesSessions range from two to five minutesBattery life up to 90 minutesTwo-year warrantyGalleryListen to the EpisodeBe sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!Google PodcastsiTunesSpotifyAmazon MusicTuneInThoughts and ConclusionThe Morphée Zen is a very convenient device that’s easy to use and comfortable in hand. With a shape that calls to mind a river rock or pebble, there are no screens to distract. It’s intuitive and practical with only a handful of symbols to press.Sessions range from two to five minutes in length with voiceovers from both male and female guides. Listen to music, sounds of nature, or take a guided journey and you’ll be chilled out in no time.Battery life is decent at 90 minutes which shakes out to 18-45 sessions per charge. In other words, you may be charging this up maybe once or twice a month, if that much.The Morphée Zen is small enough to travel anywhere and it fits into a pocket or purse without hassle. The soft edges and slightly irregular shape help lend to portability.Given how easy it is to get distracted by using apps on our phones, it’s sometimes difficult to “unplug” and just immerse ourselves in a meditation. That’s not a problem here as you’re just figuring out which sort of session to enjoy without any screens stealing away our attention.You can learn more about the Morphée Zen and/or purchase yours for about $80.

Samsung Galaxy A14 5G vs Galaxy A12: Which is the better buy?

Let's measure the gap between the A12 and A14 5G.

Podcast: Buddy Beat

Check out episode 394 of the AndroidGuys Podcast where we discuss the Buddy Beat.Listen below using the embedded player or click here to check out the episode using your favorite media player.Be sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!Google PodcastsiTunesSpotifyAmazon MusicTuneIn

Google Pixel Fold is reportedly to launch in June 2023

Google Fold? Yes, it’s happening. Although the tech giant has not confirmed yet officially, Google may be gearing up for the launch of its first foldable phone. According to the 9to5 Google and WinFuture reports, the rumored google pixel Fold is expected to go on sale in June 2023.Google Pixel Fold (yep, that's the name):256GB base storage (no idea if other variants)Colors: Carbon, PorcelainAvailable in JuneGoogle Pixel 7a:128GB only (?)Colors: Carbon, Cotton, Arctic Blue, possibly JadeAvailable in Junehttps://t.co/xxQv3KKwGTRT appreciated!— Roland Quandt (@rquandt) March 14, 2023Foldable smartphones are currently a topic everyone talking about it. Almost every smartphone brand is getting into the foldable segment. Recently launched Tecno’s Phantom V Fold and Oppo’s Find N2 Flip are the latest foldable in the segment, both offer flagship features and sturdy designs making them absolutely powerful foldable phones in the market. We can’t deny the possibility of the Google Pixel Fold to introduce at the Google I/O event which is scheduled this year on 10th May. Reports from WinFurture and 9to5Google suggest some rumored specifications of the Google Pixel Fold. Earlier leaks suggest that Google Pixel Fold may have a 7.69-inch main display (when unfolded) and a 5.79-inch cover display (when folded). Google’s first foldable will reportedly feature Google’s in-house Tensor G2 chipset. According to WinFuture, the Pixel Fold will only be available in the sole 256GB variant and come in Carbon and Porcelain color options. Furthermore, pricing information about the rumored pixel fold wasn’t revealed in the reports but earlier rumors have suggested the Pixel Fold will cost less than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 4 costs $1800.It’s just rumored, take all of these rumors with a pinch of salt. No matter how renowned the leakster or source is, it is best to await an official announcement from Google before we take any of this info as factual. 

OnePlus Pad pre-orders will start on April 10 with amazing gift

Earlier this year, OnePlus unveiled its first-ever OnePlus Pad android flagship tablet along with OnePlus 11 (review) smartphone. During the launch event, OnePlus hadn’t revealed the availability details of the Tablet. Now finally, the brand officially confirmed that the tablet will become available soon.The OnePlus Pad pre-orders will start on 10th April. Although the brand hasn’t confirmed the exact sale date for the tablet yet. Even though OnePlus hasn’t revealed the pricing details of the tablet, we hope so will get to know more info before or on April 10.The teaser poster suggests that OnePlus promises a surprise gift for those who pre-order the device. The brand itself running a promotional contest via its official website. So if you want to participate in the contest, head to the brand’s website and subscribe to the “Notify Me” form, you have a chance to win exciting prizes such as the OnePlus Buds Z2 earbuds or the OnePlus Pad tablet.It seems that the pre-order process become quite hectic. The brand will start accepting deposits for the tablet on April 10 and then you will have to pay the rest of the price tag later on. Take a quick look at the features of the OnePlus Pad tablet.The tablet sports an 11.61-inch IPS LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate, 500 nits of peak brightness, and a 144Hz touch sampling rate. In terms of optics, you get a single 13MP rear camera at the back and an 8MP selfie camera.Just like every premium segment tablet, the tablet also has a stylus and magnetic keyboard support.The device is equipped with MediaTek’s Dimensity 9000 processor paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, under the hood. Unfortunately, there’s no SD card slot, so you can’t expand storage.The tablet is backed by a massive 9,510mAh battery with support of 67W fast charging support. It runs on Andriod 13 based on OxygenOS 13.1 out of the box.On paper, the tablet holds solid specs and it will be more interesting to see how it performs in real life. Check out the full details of the OnePlus Pad here.

Podcast: GravaStar Alpha 65

Check out episode 404 of the AndroidGuys Podcast where we discuss the GravaStar Alpha 65.Listen below using the embedded player or click here to check out the episode using your favorite media player.Be sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!Google PodcastsiTunesSpotifyAmazon MusicTuneIn

PuroGamer 2.0 Gaming Headset review

The PuroGamer, priced only $25, are an excellent and affordable way of stepping into the world of gaming headphones. They’re compatible with all major gaming consoles, PC’s, and many mobile devices.Read on to learn more or check out the podcast (also embedded below) to see what we thought of the PuroGamer 2.0 Gaming Headset.Noteworthy FeaturesVolume limited to 85dbOmni-directional detachable microphone blocks ambient noiseVegan leatherCompatible with PC, Xbox, PS5, and mobile devices$25GalleryListen to the EpisodeBe sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!Google PodcastsiTunesSpotifyAmazon MusicTuneInThoughts and ConclusionThe PuroGamer 2.0 are surprisingly good in terms of sound and function and certainly feel worthy of a higher price tag. Games sound nice and clear but never get too loud because of the volume limiting feature.The headphones are comfortable to wear for longer gaming sessions and the vegan leather is soft to the touch. Take the detachable microphone out and sit back for hours of music without getting sweaty or pressure on your temples. And the cord is long enough to let you get up and dance around.If you’re in the market for a first step into the world of gaming at any level, these are a great option. They’ll work with pretty much any console or device you’ll find, including a handful of modern smartphones.You can learn more about the PuroGamer 2.0 Gaming Headset and/or purchase yours for about $25.

Review: Kensington H3000 Bluetooth Over-Ear Headset (Podcast)

The H3000 Bluetooth Over-Ear Headset is a pair of wireless headphones designed with video conferencing and business in mind. Paired via Bluetooth 5.2, it’s compatible with all of the major operating systems, voice assistants, and calling applications.Read on to learn more or check out the podcast (also embedded below) to see what we thought of the Kensington H3000 Bluetooth Over-Ear Headset.Noteworthy Features60+ hours of music / 40+ hours of callingOver-ear design with adjustable headband, swivel ear cups, and rotating microphonePassive noise cancellation, flip-to-mute boom micQuick access buttons for play, pause, mute, and volumeVisible ‘busy’ lightTwo-year warrantyGalleryListen to the EpisodeBe sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!Google PodcastsiTunesSpotifyAmazon MusicTuneInThoughts and ConclusionIf part of your work day requires being on phone calls and video chat, you know just how important it is to be comfortable. Few things make our jobs tougher than having the wrong equipment. The H3000 Bluetooth Over-Ear Headset are comfortably designed and feature a nice suite of details.With more than 40 hours of calling per charge you’re theoretically looking at needing to plug the headphones in maybe once per week. And should opt for music instead of Zoom calls, you’ve got 60+ hours of usage.The headphones are comfortable to wear and the swiveling ear cups are soft and cool to the touch. Headaches and ear fatigue are non-issues with the over-ear design. Music sounds decent here but that’s not the main draw. Instead, it’s the wide compatibility with conference and calling apps.Included in the box are adapters for USB-A and USB-C, a charging cable, and a hard shell case. Things are light and easy to pack up for travel so feel free to throw these in your bag for that next remote work day at the coffee shop.You can learn more about the Kensington H3000 Bluetooth Over-Ear Headset and purchase yours for about $110.

How does GamStop differ from other Android blocking tools

Editor Note: This post is done in collaboration with GamStop and should not be considered an editorial endorsementGamStop, together with the UK Gambling Commission, looks after the interests of vulnerable gamblers. The organization also makes resources available to these gamblers when it is required.The UKGC is tasked with regulating the gambling industry in the United Kingdom. Therefore, operators who wish to obtain a license with the regulatory body will have to sign up with GamStop. This makes it possible for GamStop to assist gamblers who reach out to them for assistance. Confined to the UK, GamStop is only able to assist on casinos and sites within the country and is not able to place restrictions outside the UK. Fortunately, there are other similar platforms which do not have these confinements.GamStop Main FeaturesThe organisation will require the player seeking assistance to register first. Once all the person’s required information has been included, the gambler has some options from which to make their selection. The organisation allows individuals to sign up for their self-exclusion program. Once all their information has been included in the system, the organisation proceeds to exclude gamblers from all their casino platforms. Whether it’s membership at a land-based casino or online, the player will be excluded from them all within 24 hours.GamStop is a non-profit organisation that provides services free of charge. Since problematic and addictive gambling requires treatment and support, the organisation also provides information for the gambler. The site has qualified and specialised service providers who would be equipped to give the necessary support services. The organisation can assist gamblers also find specialised and professional financial, emotional and family support.GamStop Works Only in the UK GamStop is a nationally run program affiliated with the UK Gambling Commission. Its activities are restricted only to platforms licensed and regulated by UKGC. They are not able to place restrictions on platforms not registered with UKGC, land-based or online casinos outside of the UK. So, players in the UK are able to play at casino sites not registered with GamStop if the operator holds another license.Completely Free Compared to Other Android BlockersGamStop is operated by a non-profit organisation, and any funding it receives is through the UKGC. This ensures it can provide its services without any charges and is also able to make its information for support accessible to all who need it. Because of this, those seeking assistance need not fear any hidden costs.No Need To Install Additional SoftwareIt is an easy-to-use, web-based service that does not require any additional software installation. With its main features, GamStop makes it easy for individuals to manage their gambling activities without additional software. This makes it easier for people with gambling problems to take action and protect themselves from further harm.Gambling Blockers FeaturesGamStop is not the only organisation available online that can block gambling activities on behalf of the gambler. Some popular names available for Android are Betfilter, GamBan, GamBlocker and Betblocker. They all have their unique ways of achieving the same objective.Like GamStop, Betblocker also lets users choose the duration of their self-exclusion period after being installed on a device. Once the gaming control app has been installed on all gadgets, the individual can select anything from 24 hours to five years. The self-exclusion will be applicable through both UK and international sites. The best feature for a parent is the parental control option that is made available.Gamban will charge you a fine for either cooling off or self-excluding yourself from gambling activities. Able to install on Android, the app will place the selected restrictions as set by the individual. All sites, UK and international, including non-GamStop, will be restricted.Work as a Software  Like a good antivirus, the software installed on the mobile or computer is indiscriminative in restricting online gambling sites. Both UK and international sites are restricted, and it is only possible to make changes at the end of the selected restriction. Though with Gamban this will remain unless the subscription lapses.Work Worldwide One disadvantage with GamStop had been its inability to place restrictions on international casino sites. As such, there has been a market for vulnerable players to access these sites as long as they were non-GamStop. The alternatives take care of this through their software.Need To PayNot all gambling blockers are free. Like Gamban, they might require a monthly subscription fee to continue providing a service. Through the software, they can restrict multiple sites simultaneously so that not even new accounts can be opened through your devices.Final Verdict Statistics show that there has been a rise in people who exhibit problematic gambling. There are numerous testimonials to be found online told by people who have gone through the darkest side of problematic and addictive gambling. With an industry that grows year o year into the billions, there is little possibility that there will be a drop in the number of problem gamblers.Casinos have seen the highest rise in problematic gamblers. It is with programs like GamStop or other gambling blockers that individuals have a chance at finding solutions to their addictions. They can provide their services, allowing gamblers to take a secure road to recovery.

Blackview Tab 16 Tipped to Launch: 2K&11-inch flagship display, and all-around class for office, entertainment and online

As demands for online classes and teleconferencing continue to emerge, the importance of tablets has grown significantly, and Blackview Tab 15 has gained immediate global recognition for all-around performance since its debut. But Blackview didn’t stop there. According to leakers: To cater to fans of larger displays for office, entertainment, and learning, Blackview is planning to launch a new tablet Tab 16 this month and says that it is expected to continue the experience of excellent audio and video entertainment, and larger, faster and more encrypted than Tab 15, putting productivity on a higher priority.Four major upgrades and some specs.11-inch 2K Full-view DisplayTÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light CertificationTo allow users to view more information and reduce display slippage when browsing docs or web pages, Blackview Tab 16 will feature an ultra-large 11-inch 2K full-view display, which has TÜV Rheinland low blue light certification to reduce eye fatigue in an era where online classes and online offices are increasingly required, greatly enhancing work and study efficiency.As a “productivity Tool,” Blackview officials say Tab 16 is ready for the situation of learning, office, and education — with a stylus and keyboard. The keyboard features a notebook-like touch panel for more comfortable office or study use. The stylus does a good job in terms of delay, allowing you to write annotations, records, and even hand-drawn operations, which really brings a new experience of paperless learning.With a 7.95mm slim and 533g light body that has up to 7680mAh giant battery and it will last up to 18 hours of daily use, you don’t need to worry about power drained problems when going out.Enhanced 13MP + 8MP AI CamerasTo facilitate the needs of students or workplace newbies to record courses and meetings, Tab 16 will have a 13 MP rear camera and 8 MP front camera, taking pictures of what you want to record, allowing you to browse information more efficiently with an 11-inch display, while the front camera supports AI face unlock, just a blink can be unlocked.Octa-core Unisoc T616 Considering more users for higher speed requirements, Tab 16 is expected to use the octa-core Unisoc T616 chipset, which greatly exceeds its predecessor Unisoc T610 by 36,982 points in the AnTuTu benchmark test, with a 17% increase in RAM processing speed, which can easily be competent in learning, office, or playing games.Up to 14GB RAM + 256GB ROM + up to 1TB TF card expansionDoubling Storage SpaceTab 16 is said to be the first Blackview tablet ever to have 256GB ROM, up to 14GB RAM, and 1TB TF card expansion, Tab 16 will not only be upgraded to store more digital content but its smoother multitasking capabilities will also be greatly enhanced.Upgraded OS For More ConvenienceDoubling EfficiencyTo ensure a smoother user experience, Tab 16 will come with Doke OS _P 3.0 based on Android 12, which is improved in design, convenience, and smoothness, and Tab 16 will be equipped with a Low Meminfo Killer process that will actively identify which apps are using and prioritizes resources, users may witness better interface responsiveness.Versatile PC ModeBreak Down Barriers Between Tablet & PCTo give users a PC-like experience, it is likely to become an 11″ laptop working in PC mode, and users can enjoy great convenience when editing business docs, taking class notes, and holding online meetings in great convenience.Other HighlightsIn addition, Tab 16 will have Smart-K quad-box speakers to provide 3D stereo sound and Widevine L1 that allows users to watch leading streaming apps with the highest image quality. At the same time, in order to provide users and enterprises with strong enough security, Tab 16 will be embedded with SE-Linux, which will effectively prevent the device from rooting and prevent apps that attempt to steal private information.Overall, Tab 16 looks like it will be more productive enough than a phone while still being more portable than a PC. It’s said that the world premiere will be launched from March 20th to 26th, 2023 PST. Click here to get more information.EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

iQOO Z7i debuts with Dimensity 6020 processor in China

The gaming-focused smartphone manufacturer company iQOO surprised us with its new iQOO Z7i member on the Z series portfolio. Without any launch event or announcement, the smartphone has gone official in its home country. It’s the first smartphone of iQOO that comes with a MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor. Although the smartphone falls under the mid-range category and comes with a decent set of features at an affordable price tag.Speaking about the price, the iQOO Z7i comes in three variant options- the base 4GB + 128GB costs CNY 949 (~$138), the 6GB + 128GB is priced at CNY 999 (~$145), and 8GB + 128GB retails at CNY 1,099 (~$160). The smartphone comes in two color options- Blue and Black. The device will be up for sale from March 20 in China. iQOO Z7i sports a 6.5-inch FHD+ LCD display with a standard 60Hz refresh rate, 88.99 percent screen-to-body ratio, and 20:9 aspect ratio. The smartphone is equipped with clear eye protection which relieves visual fatigue when using the smartphone. Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor based on 7nm architecture paired with up to 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage. The iQOO Z7i runs on Android 13 based on Origin Ocean UI out of the box. In terms of optics, you get a dual rear camera setup on the back with a 13MP primary camera (supports 10x digital zoom) joined by 2MO macro shooter. There’s a 5MP front camera for capturing stunning selfies and video chats. The smartphone is backed by a massive 5,000mAh battery with support of 15W fast charging. The phone supports a bunch of connectivity options including dual 5G, 4G LTE, WiFi 5, Bluetooth v5.1, GPS, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a USB type C port for charging and data transfer.Talking about the MediaTek Diemsnsity 6020 processor, the processor has almost similar specs to the Dimensity 700. It seems that the Dimensity 6020 processor is the rebranded version of the Dimensity 700 chipset. There will be two more members joining the Z7 series- the iQOO Z7 and Z7x. The brand will launch these two smartphones later on March 20 in China.source

This MagSafe grip made my Pixel 7 Pro feel like a DSLR camera

The ShiftCam SnapGrip is so simple to use and so ergonomic.

Review: Vactidy Blitz V8 Vacuum (Podcast)

The Vactidy Blitz V8 Cordless Stick is a lightweight portable stick vacuum cleaner. With a number of attachment accessories, it’s a good option for small home or office needs. Battery life is rated up to 35 minutes on the low speed mode but high speed mode is where you’ll get the best suction.Read on to learn more or check out the podcast (embedded below) to see what we thought of the Vactidy Blitz V8 Vacuum.Noteworthy Features35-minute running time180-degree rotating brushLED HeadlightFour-stage sealed HEPA filtration systemExtendable metal tubeGalleryListen to the EpisodeBe sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!Google PodcastsiTunesSpotifyAmazon MusicTuneInThoughts and ConclusionWe like the Vactidy Blitz V8 Cordless Stick but we aren’t in love with it, at least not in the sense of whole house cleaning and regular maintenance.If you’ve got a smaller home or office and crumbs, dust, and hair are generally not too much of a hassle, you’ll be more than happy with what’s on offer. Should you have a home with children and regular messes, you might not be as happy with the results.The accessories help get into cracks and crevices or to freshen up the furniture, and we do like the extending tube. At just under six pounds, it’s light enough to hit the stairs or go overhead for curtains and ceiling fans.Much like a robot vacuum works well for daily cleaning and regular sweeping, the Blitz V8 does, too. However, it’s also not quite as strong as a traditional vacuum in terms of suction and you’ll occasionally need to use something more powerful to truly ensure things are clean.We can appreciate the flexibility and portability of this one but we don’t expect a whole lot from it. It works well in an office with the random dust bunny, spiderwebs, lunchtime crumbs, and dirt. Likewise, it’s a solid solution for vehicles, too.You can learn more about the Vactidy Blitz V8 Vacuum and purchase yours for about $140.

The Apple iPhone 14 Plus is bigger, but is it better?

It's not the size of the iPhone in the fight that matters, but the size of the fight in the