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Importantly, Apple has kept with its past release patterns for the most part, launching a base iPhone 16 model and a larger iPhone 16 Plus alongside the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The first two are true flagships, but you will only find some of Apple’s most cutting-edge features on one of the Pro options. But today’s Apple event wasn’t just about phones — it also saw the launch of new AirPods models, including an update to the premium on-ear AirPods Max, and the all-new Apple Watch Series 10 along with a re-issue of the Apple Watch Ultra 2.

What’s new with the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max?

Buttons are all the rage

Last year’s iPhone 15 Pro models featured a new action button that replaced the alert slider with a customizable shortcut key. This button makes its return this year and is now available on the non-Pro iPhone 16 models as well. On the opposite side of the new iPhones (along the right edge towards the bottom if you’re holding the phone in portrait mode), there’s an all-new camera button that lets you snap shots in a hurry so you don’t miss the moment. Whether that’s using your right thumb while holding the phone upright or with your index finger while holding it in landscape mode is up to you.

There’s an interesting combination of hardware and software powering the new camera button. There’s a mechanical switch like most physical buttons, but there’s also a force sensor and haptics. To top it off, there’s a multi-pixel capacitive sensor along the surface of the button with a signal processor to recognize touch gestures.

Because of this hardware, the Camera Control button, as it’s called, can distinguish between a full click and lighter presses. Click the button to open the camera app, then click it again to capture a photo or click and hold to record a video. Or, like a DSLR (or an old HTC or Sony Xperia with a dedicated camera button), you can lightly press to focus, then fully press to capture the shot. Once the Camera app is opened, the force and touch sensors really start to shine. A single press (not click) brings up a new overlay with quick access to certain camera functions like zoom controls, which can then be adjusted by swipe. Alternatively, you can press lightly twice to bring up a mini menu with other controls like ISO and shutter speed. From there, swipe along the button to scroll through the options, then press lightly again to select and adjust one.

In addition to a whole bunch of Pixel 9 phones, Google launched the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 at its Made by Google event today. Here’s the lowdown on what’s new, what’s interesting, and what Google has to say about the products beyond their AI connection.

Pixel Watch 3

There are many fitness, smart home, and AI features on the new Pixel Watch 3, but let’s get to the important new stuff: Pixel Recorder. That means, in situations where you aren’t being creepy, using your watch to record a note to self, a conversation, a bit of a song, or whatever else on your watch. You can then play the recording back and get the transcription on your Pixel phone. The other feature that isn’t about running a marathon or asking a language model for help is UWB (ultra wideband) phone unlocking with the Pixel Watch 3. That should mean relatively responsive unlocks on your phone, but not if you’re a measurably far distance from it.

Pixel Buds Pro 2

As with every other device Google is launching, the marquee pitch for the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is that they’re Gemini-ready and Gemini-friendly. There’s a good deal more about them that’s notable, however. That same “Tensor AI” chip that makes them ready to convey your desires to your phone (or Google’s servers) supposedly let Google shrink these Buds 27 percent, making them lighter and improving their battery life to a purported 8 hours of active noise canceling (ANC). 

When and how much

Google’s smaller Pixel fall products are available next month at these prices and on these dates:

• Pixel Watch 3 ($349 at 41 mm, $399 for 45 mm, $100 extra for LTE): September 10
• Pixel Buds Pro 2 ($299): September 26

This phone is not small, but it’s very compact, and it could appeal to many people more than its siblings. It is also the most affordable member of the Pixel 9 series, of course. In that regard, it trumps the Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. With that in mind, in this article, we’ll talk more about the phone and show you what it has to offer.

Google Pixel 9 specs

The Google Pixel 9 features a 6.3-inch Actual display. That panel has a fullHD+ (2424 x 1080) resolution and a 20:9 aspect ratio. It is a ‘Smooth Display’, its refresh rate goes from 60 to 120Hz. The peak brightness is 2,700 nits, while HDR content is supported. The Gorilla Glass Victus 2 from Corning protects this panel. The Google Tensor G4 SoC fuels the phone, while the Titan M2 security coprocessor is also included. Google offers 12GB of RAM here along with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage.

27W wired & 15W wireless charging is supported

A 4,700mAh battery is included in the package, and it supports fast charging. The company says you can get up to 55% of battery charge in 30 minutes using the company’s 45W charger. The phone supports charging up to 27W, though. Do note that the charger is not included in the box, though. Fast wireless charging is also on offer here, 15W wireless charging, to be exact. You can also charge some other devices thanks to reverse wireless charging support. Android 14 comes out of the box, not Android 15. That’s the result of the phone being announced in July instead of September or October. Android 15 is right around the corner, though. Speaking of software, Google is promising 7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates.

There are two cameras included on the back

A 50-megapixel main camera (f/1.68 aperture, 82-degree FoV, 1/1.31-inch sensor, Super Res Zoom up to 8X, OIS, EIS) is included on the back. The second camera back there is a 48-megapixel ultrawide unit (123-degree FOV, 1/2.55-inch image sensor). On the front, you’ll find a 10.5-megapixel selfie camera (f/2.2 aperture, 95-degree FoV). This phone is IP68 certified for water and dust resistance. It has an in-display fingerprint scanner and supports facial scanning too. It supports a dual SIM setup (nano SIM + eSIM), while Bluetooth 5.3 is also supported. You’ll also find stereo speakers here. The device measures 152.8 x 72 x 8.5mm and weighs 198 grams.

After years of languishing in the wilderness, Motorola returned to flagship form with last year’s Razr+, a foldable so good that we thought it bested Samsung’s. Now, on the eve of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 launch, I’m tempted to say that Motorola’s done it again. Its 2024 take on the Razr+ iterates in all the right ways, delivering the biggest cover screen yet on a flip phone, redesigned cameras, and doubling down on its winning approach to fit and finishes. This phone looks great, feels great, and doesn’t cost a penny more than last year.

Traditionally, Google has unveiled its devices in October, but this year, it appears Google may opt for an August launch for its new Pixel device. While the information is still preliminary and details are sparse, it comes directly from Google. There’s a chance this could be an error, but we’ll provide updates if anything changes.

Possible August Pixel Event

Typically, after Google I/O, we anticipate the next major announcement in October. However, this year, Google is pushing the date forward. Historically, Samsung moved its Unpacked events from August to July, and now Google seems to be advancing its schedule.

Invitations for Google’s “Made by Google” event have been sent out, indicating an August 13th date—two months earlier than last year. The invite reads: “You’re invited to an in-person Made by Google event where we’ll showcase the best of Google AI, Android software, and the Pixel portfolio of devices.”

The term “Pixel portfolio” is ambiguous; Google could unveil all rumored devices or hold some back. Currently, expectations include the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Fold (or Pixel Fold 2), and Pixel Watch 3. Given the volume of products, Google might stagger its announcements.

For now, we’ll have to wait and see, but the event is just over a month away.

Challenges for Google

Google faces significant competition. Launching in August places it between Samsung’s second Unpacked event and Apple’s iPhone event. This timing could be challenging, especially with the iPhone 16 expected to dominate discussions due to its AI features.

While the Pixel 8 Pro’s AI capabilities may not measure up to Apple Intelligence, Google’s new Pixel phones aren’t necessarily doomed. However, standing out amid the Galaxy and iPhone launches will be a challenge.

Samsung Galaxy Ring Visits the FCC: What We Know So Far

As the tech world buzzes with anticipation, Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Ring has made a significant stop at the FCC. This visit has unveiled some intriguing details about the wearable, including battery sizes, model numbers, and ring sizes. However, recent reports hint that this new gadget might come with a higher price tag than the popular Galaxy Watch series.

Official Launch at Unpacked Event

Samsung is gearing up to officially unveil the Galaxy Ring at its highly anticipated Unpacked event in July. While the company has confirmed the ring’s existence and design, many specifics about its features and specifications remain tightly guarded. Nonetheless, Droid Life has uncovered some interesting details from the FCC database.

Key Details from the FCC Listing

According to the FCC listing, the Galaxy Ring will come in up to nine sizes, although the current listing mentions eight specific sizes, each with unique model numbers and battery capacities. The smallest model, the SM-Q503, has live images and measurements available. This model is referred to as “basic,” suggesting that Samsung might reserve certain features for larger models, though this remains speculative at this point.

Battery Capacities

Samsung has equipped the Galaxy Ring with three different battery sizes: 17mAh, 18.5mAh, and 22.5mAh. Interestingly, the largest battery is only mentioned for one model, hinting at potential variations in features or usage across the different sizes.

Connectivity and Charging

The FCC entry also reveals that the Galaxy Ring will connect to mobile devices via Bluetooth LE, with no mention of WiFi—a reasonable omission for a device of this nature. Additionally, there is a sketch of the charging cradle included in the listing, although it is unclear whether there will be different cradle sizes for different ring models.

Sneak Peek at the Design

Typically, live images of new products remain hidden in certification databases until an official launch is imminent. However, the images of the Galaxy Ring are already available, providing an early glimpse into its design and structure.

Anticipation Builds

With its official debut just around the corner, the Samsung Galaxy Ring is generating significant excitement. The details emerging from the FCC listing offer a tantalizing preview of what to expect from Samsung’s latest innovation. As we await the full reveal at the Unpacked event, the tech community is eager to see how the Galaxy Ring will stand out in the crowded wearable market.

Microsoft’s new Surface Laptop, powered by a Snapdragon X mobile processor, offers desktop-class performance and over 20 hours of battery life, similar to Apple’s M1 MacBook.

Named simply Surface Laptop, it replaces the Surface Laptop 6 and is available in 13.8-inch and 15-inch models. It resembles the MacBook Air with a large trackpad, aluminum enclosure, and fanless design. The laptop starts with 16GB RAM and 256GB storage, expandable up to 64GB RAM and 1TB storage, though the 64GB model is preorder-only.

The Snapdragon X processor promises 80% faster performance than previous models and up to 22 hours of video playback. Users can choose between Snapdragon X Plus or X Elite chipsets. The laptop also features AI capabilities with new “Copilot Plus PC” tools like a Recall feature.

This launch could significantly impact Microsoft, Windows, and the PC market by reducing reliance on Intel’s x86 architecture in favor of ARM. Accompanied by the new Snapdragon X-powered Surface Pro, Microsoft aims to improve on past ARM device attempts like the Surface RT and Surface Pro X.

The new Surface Laptop starts at $1,000, with preorders available now and shipping starting June 18th.

Source: Microsoft

Resembling its predecessor, the Pixel 7a, the Pixel 8a boasts several upgrades, notably in its display department. Google has enhanced the display to a striking 6.1-inch Actua Display, capable of reaching peak brightness levels of up to 2,000 nits or 1,400 nits in high brightness mode—a feature on par with the Pixel 8. Additionally, the display now supports a refresh rate of 120Hz, a notable improvement from the previous 90Hz found in the a-series lineup.

In terms of software longevity, Google promises the Pixel 8a an impressive seven years of Android updates, feature drops, and security patches, aligning it with the support cycle of its higher-tier counterparts, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

Under the hood, the Pixel 8a houses the Tensor G3 processor, along with 8GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of storage—the latter being a first for the a-series. Fueling these components is a robust 4492mAh battery, touted to deliver over 24 hours of usage. While wireless charging is supported at 7.5W and wired charging at 18W, the speeds may not be class-leading but are adequate given the device’s price point.

Camera specifications remain unchanged from the previous iteration, the Pixel 7a, though last year saw significant upgrades in this area. The Pixel 8a boasts a 64-megapixel primary camera, a 13-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 13-megapixel front-facing camera. Notably, Google introduces several features from the Pixel 8, such as Magic Editor, Best Take, Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and more, enriching the photography experience.

As for availability, the Pixel 8a is available for pre-order starting today, with shipments commencing on May 14. Despite speculation, the pricing remains consistent, with the base model priced at $499 and the 256GB variant at $579. This positioning solidifies its status as the premier sub-$500 smartphone in the market. However, it’s worth noting that the Verizon variant, equipped with mmWave 5G support, starts at $549, while the unlocked version lacks mmWave compatibility but remains compatible with Verizon’s network.

In terms of aesthetics, the Pixel 8a comes in four distinct colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Aloe. The introduction of the Aloe hue adds a vibrant green option to the lineup, while the Bay color closely resembles the design language of last year’s Pixel 8 Pro, with minor differentiations attributed to the materials used.

Overall, the Pixel 8a stands as a testament to Google’s commitment to delivering a compelling smartphone experience, blending innovative features with an accessible price point.

Apple’s recent unveiling of the latest iPad Air and iPad Pro models ushers in a new era of innovation and performance in the tablet market. These devices represent the pinnacle of Apple’s design and engineering prowess, offering users unparalleled power, versatility, and creativity.

The iPad Air, a cornerstone of Apple’s tablet lineup, takes a significant leap forward with the introduction of two size options for the first time. The smaller 11-inch model provides a compact yet powerful solution, while the larger 13-inch variant offers an expansive canvas for productivity and creativity. With dimensions carefully crafted to strike a balance between portability and usability, both models retain the sleek and elegant design aesthetic that Apple is known for.

At the heart of the new iPad Air lineup lies the formidable Apple M2 processor, a chip that delivers desktop-class performance in a portable form factor. This powerhouse processor ensures that users can tackle even the most demanding tasks with ease, from multitasking and productivity to creative endeavors like photo editing and graphic design. With the M2 chip under the hood, users can expect buttery-smooth performance and seamless transitions between apps, ensuring a frustration-free computing experience.

One of the most significant changes in the new iPad Air lineup is the placement of the front-facing camera, which now sits on the long side of the device. This shift allows for a more immersive video calling experience in landscape mode, aligning the iPad Air with the evolving needs of modern users. Whether you’re catching up with friends and family or participating in virtual meetings, the iPad Air’s camera placement ensures that you’re always framed perfectly on screen.

In terms of storage, the new iPad Air sets a new standard with a base level offering of 128GB, double that of the previous generation. This expanded storage capacity provides ample room for storing photos, videos, apps, and documents, giving users the freedom to create and consume content without worrying about running out of space. With prices starting at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch model, the new iPad Air represents an excellent value proposition for users seeking a premium tablet experience.

Moving on to the iPad Pro lineup, Apple continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with a tablet device. Available in both 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, the new iPad Pro models boast a sleek and futuristic design that’s sure to turn heads. With a thickness of just 5.3mm for the 11-inch model and 5.1mm for the 13-inch model, these tablets are the thinnest and most lightweight iPads ever created, making them ideal for users on the go.

Under the hood, the iPad Pro packs a punch with the new Apple M4 chip, a powerhouse processor that delivers unparalleled performance and efficiency. Built on TSMC’s cutting-edge 3nm process, the M4 chip features four performance cores and six efficiency cores, offering 50% faster CPU performance compared to its predecessor. This raw computing power enables users to tackle even the most demanding tasks with ease, from intensive multitasking to high-resolution video editing.

One of the most significant upgrades in the new iPad Pro lineup is the introduction of OLED technology, which brings vibrant colors and deep blacks to the tablet’s display. With a peak brightness of 1,600 nits in HDR mode, the iPad Pro’s display is brighter and more immersive than ever before, making it ideal for viewing content in any lighting conditions. Whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or editing photos, the iPad Pro’s OLED display delivers a truly stunning visual experience.

In addition to its impressive display, the iPad Pro also features advanced camera systems, including a 12-megapixel front-facing camera and a rear camera capable of capturing 4K video. With four microphones, a lidar sensor, and an Adaptive True Tone flash, the iPad Pro is equipped to handle any photography or videography task with ease. Whether you’re shooting professional-quality video or capturing precious moments with friends and family, the iPad Pro’s camera system delivers stunning results every time.

In terms of pricing, the iPad Pro starts at $999 for the base 11-inch model and $1,299 for the 13-inch model, making it a premium option for users who demand the very best. Additionally, Apple offers a range of optional accessories for the iPad Pro, including the new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro. The Magic Keyboard, priced at $299 for the 11-inch model and $349 for the 13-inch model, features a new row of function keys and a larger trackpad, providing users with a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience. The Apple Pencil Pro, priced at $129, introduces new features such as a squeeze gesture and gyroscope functionality, allowing users to unleash their creativity in new and exciting ways.

Overall, the new iPad Air and iPad Pro models represent the pinnacle of Apple’s tablet lineup, offering users unmatched performance, versatility, and creativity. Whether you’re a professional artist, a student, or a casual user, these devices are sure to impress with their sleek design, powerful hardware, and innovative features. With the iPad Air starting at $599 and the iPad Pro starting at $999, there’s never been a better time to experience the magic of iPad.

Walmart’s Onn brand may soon introduce a new “Pro” model featuring upgraded specifications: a quad-core processor, 3GB RAM, and 32GB storage. Sporting a larger design compared to previous versions, it includes Ethernet, USB-A, and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity options. Although no official release date has been announced, industry speculation places the streaming box’s price at $50.

For cord-cutters immersed in the world of streaming services, the plethora of choices and content diversity is apparent. Streaming services offer the flexibility to enjoy favorite shows on virtually any internet-connected device.

Best streaming devices in 2024 With a multitude of options vying for attention in the streaming device market, discerning consumers seek models that enhance their audiovisual experience. While high-end devices often deliver superior performance, affordable alternatives can still offer remarkable value.

Walmart’s Onn brand stands out in this regard, offering budget-friendly electronics, including streaming media devices powered by Google. Despite lacking the latest user interface, the Onn base model impressed with its feature-rich design at an affordable price point, earning praise from reviewers.

Yet, consumers crave top-tier specifications and features at accessible prices, and Onn appears poised to deliver. The much-anticipated “Pro” device has been the subject of speculation, with unofficial sightings suggesting an imminent release.

Onn 4K Pro Unveiled Unofficially

YouTube content creator SuperDell-TV shared a sneak peek of the upcoming Onn product, reportedly obtained from a local Walmart. While enthusiasts may be eager to secure their own, these units seem to have surfaced prematurely and are not officially available for purchase.

The speculated retail price for the new model is $50, a significant increase from its predecessor priced at $20. However, the Onn 4K Pro boasts a revamped design resembling a compact smart speaker, along with expanded connectivity options like USB-A, Ethernet, and HDMI.

Under the hood, the device packs a punch with a quad-core Cortex-A55 processor, 3GB RAM, and 32GB internal storage, complemented by Wi-Fi 6 support. This substantial upgrade marks a significant leap from its predecessor, promising an exciting streaming experience for users in 2024. While an official release date remains unconfirmed, anticipation suggests its arrival is imminent.