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Category: Gadgets

  • How to Build a Custom Gaming PC on a Budget

    How to Build a Custom Gaming PC on a Budget

    Want to experience the thrill of PC gaming without emptying your wallet? Building your own custom gaming rig is the answer. It allows you to tailor your machine to your specific needs and budget, offering better performance per dollar than pre-built systems. I’ve personally guided many friends through their first PC builds, and the satisfaction of playing games on a machine you built yourself is truly unique. This guide will walk you through each step, making the process clear and manageable, even if you’re a complete beginner.

    Step 1: Planning Your Budget

    Before you even think about components, the first crucial step is to set a realistic budget. Decide how much you’re willing to spend in total. This will heavily influence your component choices. Consider what kind of games you want to play and at what settings. Newer, more demanding games will require a more powerful (and potentially more expensive) setup. Be honest with yourself about your financial limitations and stick to your budget as closely as possible.

    Step 2: Choosing Your Components Wisely

    This is the heart of the build. Let’s break down the essential components and how to choose budget-friendly options:

    CPU (Central Processing Unit)

    The CPU is the brain of your PC. For budget gaming, look for CPUs that offer a good balance of cores and clock speed. AMD Ryzen CPUs often provide excellent value for money in the budget to mid-range category. Intel Core i3 or lower-end i5 processors can also be viable options depending on current pricing and sales. Research benchmarks for the games you want to play to see which CPUs offer sufficient performance.

    GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)

    The GPU is arguably the most important component for gaming. It handles rendering the visuals you see on screen. Again, AMD Radeon and NVIDIA GeForce both offer budget-friendly options. Look for cards with enough VRAM (Video RAM) to handle the textures in your games. Research specific models based on your target resolution (1080p or 1440p) and desired frame rates. Often, buying a slightly older but still capable GPU can save you significant money. Keep an eye out for deals on previous-generation cards.

    Motherboard

    The motherboard is the backbone that connects all your components. It needs to be compatible with your chosen CPU (check the socket type). For a budget build, a basic ATX or micro-ATX motherboard with the necessary ports and features will suffice. You don’t need to splurge on high-end features you won’t use. Ensure it has enough RAM slots, PCIe slots for your GPU, and SATA ports for storage.

    RAM (Random Access Memory)

    RAM is essential for multitasking and smooth gameplay. For a budget gaming PC, 16GB of DDR4 or DDR5 RAM (depending on your motherboard) is generally recommended. Faster RAM speeds can offer a slight performance boost, but it’s often not the most significant factor for budget builds. Look for reputable brands and ensure the speed is compatible with your motherboard.

    Storage (SSD and/or HDD)

    For gaming, a Solid State Drive (SSD) is highly recommended for your operating system and frequently played games. This will drastically improve boot times and loading speeds. A 500GB or 1TB SSD is a good starting point. If you need more storage for a large game library, consider adding a larger capacity Hard Disk Drive (HDD) as a secondary drive. HDDs are much cheaper per gigabyte but significantly slower.

    Power Supply Unit (PSU)

    The PSU provides power to all your components. It’s crucial to choose a reliable PSU with enough wattage to handle your system’s power draw, with some headroom for future upgrades. Use an online PSU calculator to estimate your system’s power requirements based on your chosen components. Opt for a reputable brand with good reviews. A bronze-rated PSU is usually a good balance of efficiency and affordability for a budget build.

    PC Case

    The PC case houses all your components. Choose a case that is compatible with your motherboard size (ATX or micro-ATX) and has adequate airflow to keep your components cool. Budget-friendly cases are readily available and often come with basic fans. Consider future upgrades when selecting a case; ensure it has enough space for larger GPUs or additional drives if needed.

    Step 3: Finding the Best Deals

    Once you have a list of your desired components, the next step is to shop around for the best prices. Here are some strategies:

    • Compare Prices: Check prices on multiple online retailers (e.g., Amazon, Newegg, local PC stores).
    • Look for Sales and Discounts: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Retailers often have regular discounts on PC components.
    • Consider Used or Refurbished Parts: For certain components like the case or even the GPU (from reputable sellers), you might find significant savings on the used market. However, be cautious and do your research before buying used hardware.
    • Bundle Deals: Sometimes retailers offer bundle deals that can save you money when buying a CPU and motherboard together, for example.

    Step 4: Preparing for the Build

    Once all your components have arrived, it’s time to prepare for the build process.

    • Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver (magnetic is helpful), cable ties or Velcro straps for cable management, and an anti-static wrist strap to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) which can damage sensitive components.
    • Find a Clean and Well-Lit Workspace: Choose a spacious area where you can comfortably work without distractions. Good lighting is essential for seeing what you’re doing.
    • Refer to Manuals: Keep the manuals for all your components handy. They contain valuable information about installation and compatibility.

    Step 5: Assembling Your Gaming PC

    This is where the magic happens! Take your time and be careful. Here’s a general step-by-step guide:

    1. Install the CPU on the Motherboard: Carefully align the CPU with the socket on the motherboard and gently lower the retention arm.
    2. Install the CPU Cooler: Apply thermal paste to the top of the CPU (if it’s not pre-applied to the cooler) and securely mount the CPU cooler.
    3. Install RAM: Open the clips on the RAM slots and firmly push the RAM sticks into place until they click.
    4. Mount the Motherboard in the Case: Install the standoffs in the case (if necessary) and then carefully screw the motherboard into place.
    5. Install the GPU: Locate the primary PCIe x16 slot on the motherboard, open the retaining clip, and firmly insert the GPU until it clicks into place.
    6. Install Storage Devices: Connect your SSD and/or HDD to the appropriate bays in the case and connect the SATA data and power cables.
    7. Install the Power Supply: Place the PSU in its designated area in the case and screw it in. Connect the necessary power cables to the motherboard, GPU, and storage devices. Refer to your PSU and component manuals for correct connections.
    8. Cable Management: Neatly route and tie down all the cables to improve airflow and aesthetics.
    9. Connect Peripherals: Connect your monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

    Step 6: Installing the Operating System and Drivers

    Once the hardware is assembled, it’s time to install the operating system (like Windows or Linux). You’ll need a bootable USB drive with the OS installation files.

    1. Enter BIOS/UEFI: Turn on your PC and press the designated key (usually Del, F2, F12, or Esc) to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings.
    2. Configure Boot Order: Change the boot order to prioritize your USB drive.
    3. Install the OS: Save the changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. The PC will restart and boot from the USB drive. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the operating system.
    4. Install Drivers: Once the OS is installed, you’ll need to install drivers for your components, especially the GPU and motherboard. You can usually find these drivers on the manufacturers’ websites.

    Step 7: Testing Your New PC

    Congratulations! You’ve built your own gaming PC. Now it’s time to test it.

    • Run Benchmark Tests: Use benchmark software to check the performance of your CPU and GPU.
    • Play Games: Launch some of your favorite games and see how they run at your desired settings. Monitor frame rates and temperatures.
    • Monitor Temperatures: Ensure your components are not overheating. You can use monitoring software to track temperatures.

    My Personal Experiences and Insights

    Building a PC for the first time can seem daunting, but it’s a rewarding experience. I remember the slight nervousness I felt when installing my first CPU, but the satisfaction of seeing the system boot up for the first time was incredible. Over the years, I’ve learned that patience is key, and don’t be afraid to consult online resources or ask for help if you get stuck. The PC building community is generally very supportive. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that investing a little extra in a good quality power supply is always a wise decision, as it protects your other components. Also, good cable management not only looks better but also improves airflow, which can impact performance and longevity.

    Conclusion

    Building a budget gaming PC is achievable with careful planning and research. By understanding the key components, shopping smart for deals, and following the assembly steps methodically, you can create a powerful gaming machine that fits your budget. Enjoy the process, and welcome to the world of PC gaming on your own custom-built rig!

  • Samsung Galaxy S10 Starts Receiving Android 10 Update

    Samsung Galaxy S10 Starts Receiving Android 10 Update

    Samsung has been extensively testing Android 10 for its Galaxy S10 range over the last few weeks. Now, a new report claims that the company has silently pushed the rollout of Android 10 for the Galaxy S10, which appears to be the final build of the update. According to a report by SamMobile, users in Germany are included in the first phase of the rollout.

    The rollout of the stable release with version 2.0 of One UI includes most of the new features available in Android 10. These include system-wide dark theme, new gesture-based navigation, as well as more granular location permissions. Besides, Samsung has also made subtle changes to its One UI skin by improving its Samsung apps, detailed battery usage graph, along with more ways to access one-handed mode.

    The update labeled as G97**XXU3BSKO interestingly includes the December Security patch level, which is yet to arrive on Pixel devices. Besides, the update is merely 140MB in size for users already running Android 10 beta builds.

    You can manually check for the update on any Galaxy S10e, S10, and S10+ if you live in Germany (and maybe elsewhere) by heading over to Settings > Software Update.

    Not to mention, sources also indicate that the update is also rolling out for users currently using the stable version of Android 9 Pie. However, for non-beta users, the update is considerably bigger in size at about 2GB, though the update version number is the same. While Samsung is yet to officially announce Android 10 for its devices, but the rollout should continue with more waves and more markets getting the update.

  • Apple Reportedly Planning to Release Different Sized Iphones in 2020

    Apple Reportedly Planning to Release Different Sized Iphones in 2020

    Apple is reportedly planning to shake things up in 2020. A new report now suggests that the company will offer a smaller and a larger iPhone in 2020, different than those currently available.

    According to a report by Korean publication ETNews, Apple is planning to introduce a smaller 5.4-inch iPhone, a 6.1-inch iPhone model, along with a 6.7-inch iPhone with thinner OLED displays in 2020. The report says that the upcoming 5.4-inch and 6.1-inch model will use a new technology from Samsung that allows manufacturers to build thinner displays and also reduces production costs. Meanwhile, LG will reportedly supply an OLED panel for the 6.1-inch iPhone model.

    Multiple sources in the past have indicated that 2020 is going to be a big year for Apple, as the company plans to shake up the iPhone lineup with two new screen sizes mentioned above. Besides, reports also indicate a redesigned metal frame inspired by the iPhone 4, 5G support, and up to 6GB of RAM.

    Industry experts have also claimed that Apple plans to introduce an iPhone model featuring both Face ID and in-display scanner in 2020. The in-display Touch ID would allow user authentication by placing the finger anywhere on the display. However, it remains unclear whether the handset would arrive in 2020 or 2021.

    Credible Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also suggests that a smaller iPhone in 2020, possibly called the iPhone SE 2. Notably, Kuo’s predictions fall in line with other key sources who’ve also claimed that Apple plans to launch a cheaper iPhone next year in order to boost its share in the mid-tier smartphone market. It’ll be aggressively priced at around $399 and will rival smartphones from the likes of Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi.

    Kuo further notes that it’ll get powered by new A13 Bionic chipset, the company’s top-end chipset that powers the latest iPhone 11 Pro range. The chipset will be paired with 3GB LPDDR4X RAM, also found on the new iPhone 11. He also suggests that the iPhone SE2 will not be a smaller version of the iPhone 11. Instead, the handset’s form factor will be similar to the iPhone 8 making it much more compact than most of the smartphones currently available these days.

  • Motorola Brings Back the Iconic Moto Razr

    Motorola Brings Back the Iconic Moto Razr

    Motorola has finally unveiled the long-awaited, new-gen Moto Razr smartphone. As expected, the handset brings back memories of the iconic Razr phone, which sold more than 130 million units.

    It features the same clamshell design that pays homage to its iconic past. However, the new-age Razr phone features a flexible OLED screen and state of the art hinge mechanism that allows the phone to shut with both sides perfectly flush, just like the iconic Razr phone we know.

    The handset looks rather familiar when closed, though flip it open and you get all the shenanigans of a modern-day smartphone. The main screen is a 6.2-inch Flex View OLED display, which has a 21:9 CinemaVision aspect ratio. On the outside, there’s touch-enabled Quick View display that lets users interact with notifications, take selfies, play music, use Google Assistant, and more, without having to open the phone.

    And when you flip the phone open, whatever you were viewing on the secondary screen seamlessly transitions to the larger FLEX display. Motorola also stated there is no gap between the two halves of the screen when it is folded.

    moto razr

    “The Razr uses advanced flexible OLED screen technology and a groundbreaking hinge mechanism that allows the phone to close with both sides perfectly flush. This engineering breakthrough protects the display and creates an even thinner, more compact design,” Motorola said in a statement.

    In the photography department, the handset comes with a single 16MP camera that acts as selfie cam when the device folded, and as a primary camera when its unfolded. The camera also gets AI capabilities and a Night Vuison Mode in order to take better photos in low-light conditions.

    Key specifications of the Moto Razr include an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 710 SoC, coupled with 6GB of RAM, and a 2510mAh battery. The battery also gets 15W fast charging support. The device only supports eSIM cards. Other connectivity options include NFC support, Bluetooth 5.0, W-Fi, 4G LTE, and GPS.

    The new Moto Razr gets a price tag of $1,499.99. It’ll be available to pre-order starting December 26 exclusively via Verizon, and will arrive in offline and online stores on January 9.

  • Apple May Soon Unveil a 16-inch Macbook Pro With Revamped Keyboard Design

    Apple May Soon Unveil a 16-inch Macbook Pro With Revamped Keyboard Design

    There’s been no dearth of reports about the long-rumoured 16-inch MacBook Pro. Now, a new report by Bloomberg suggests that Apple plans to officially unveil the device as early as tomorrow, i.e November 13. In addition, the report also notes that it’ll go on sale this week.

    The upcoming 16-inch MacBook Pro is expected to get the same $2399 price tag as the 15-inch model. The reason for that is because it’s going to fully replace the classic 15-inch MacBook Pro in the MacBook lineup, contrary to earlier rumors that it would be offered as a premium option.

    Apart from its larger 16-inch display, the 16-inch MacBook Pro also marks the debut of a revamped keyboard mechanism, which is designed to be more reliable compared to the butterfly styled keyboards we’ve seen on MacBooks since 2016.

    MacBook users have consistently reported of dropped keystrokes with butterfly switch-based keyboards. The reason being that butterfly keyboards have a tendency to let debris accumulate under the keys which essentially affects normal functioning. With external debris under the keyboard, it usually led to individual keypresses going unregistered or cases of multiple keypresses. Besides, it also led to overheating issues with MacBook keyboards.

    Hence, it appears Apple could finally ditch the butterfly mechanism and employ scissor-switch style keyboards for upcoming MacBook models. The switch to a new keyboard design could improve the typing experience with longer key travel.

    Elsewhere, the report also notes that Apple plans to release the high-end Mac Pro sometime in December.

  • Experts hack Alexa, Google Home, and Siri by using ordinary lasers

    Experts hack Alexa, Google Home, and Siri by using ordinary lasers

    Researchers have apparently found a way to hack assistants such as Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, as well as some smartphones, by simply pointing a laser. The hack dubbed as Light Commands, allows attackers to take full control over many popular voice-controlled devices by targeting the device’s microphone with lasers.

    Takeshi Sugawara, one of the lead researchers of the study, explained that microphones in smart devices convert sound into electrical signals, which sends commands to the device. He added that microphones react the same way to a focused light pointed at them, just like they respond to sound commands.

    “It’s possible to make microphones respond to light as if it were sound. This means that anything that acts on sound commands will act on light commands,” Sugawara told Wired in a statement.

    As many voice-controlled devices are not protected by a PIN or password, attackers just need to be in the device’s line of sight to exploit this vulnerability. In a research paper published on Monday, experts revealed how they could easily hack smart speakers, tablets, and even phones by simply pointing a laser` through a window. They added that the vulnerability could be exploited by hackers to operate smart switches at homes or offices, as well as buy things online without being detected.

    “Once an attacker gains control over a voice assistant a number of other systems could be open to their manipulation. In the worst cases, this could mean dangerous access to e-commerce accounts, credit cards, and even any connected medical devices the user has linked to their assistant,” says a breakdown of the study on the University of Michigan’s website.

    Experts spent nearly seven months testing this vulnerability on popular voice-controlled devices powered by Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. These include Google Home, Echo Dot, Fire Cube, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, iPhone, and iPad. They were able to successfully exploit the flaw using ordinary laser pointers, laser drivers, and a telephoto lens. In some cases, even a souped-up flashlight did the trick.

    Researchers also added that they’ve shared their findings of the exploit with Google, Facebook, Amazon, Tesla, as well as Ford.

  • Moto Razr foldable phone leaked ahead of official release

    Moto Razr foldable phone leaked ahead of official release

    The upcoming Moto Razr foldable phone has purportedly leaked ahead of its official unveiling scheduled for Nov. 13th. The leak comes via credible Evan Blass aka @evleaks, who has a rather immaculate track record when it comes to leaks. Blass posted several images of the handset which indicate that it’ll look much like its famous predecessor. Going by the leaked image, the bottom of the device looks rather chunky and thick. Besides, the handset’s chin also seemingly houses a Home button. However, the highlight of the device appears to be the display, which not only happens to be fully touchscreen but foldable at the same time.

    The upper half of the handset would fold down just like its predecessor, and sit flush with the bottom half of the device. The upcoming Moto Razr will have touchscreen all through, unlike its predecessor which had a keypad at the bottom.

    To recall, a patent was filed by Motorola earlier this year that revealed the design of the new age Razr. The filing contained several diagrams that show a folding handset with a clamshell form factor. According to the filing, the Moto Razr will have two screens, a small screen on the outside and a folding screen on the inside.

    As for pricing, key sources indicate that Lenovo plans to launch Moto Razr at a price tag of $1500. Besides, rumor also has it that the device will be a Verizon-exclusive in the US. Not to mention, reports also suggest that Lenovo plans to manufacture over 200,000 units of the new RAZRs, which is rather surprising given it’s a $1500 luxury phone.

    The launch of the Moto Razr will make it compete with the likes of the Samsung Galaxy Fold and Huawei Mate X. That said, unlike Samsung and Huawei who’ve advertised their foldable devices as flagship offerings, Motorola appears to have a rather scaled-down approach with its foldable offering.

  • Samsung Galaxy Tab Active Pro rugged tablet now available in the US

    Samsung Galaxy Tab Active Pro rugged tablet now available in the US

    Samsung has officially announced that its latest rugged tablet, the Galaxy Tab Active Pro is now available in the US starting for $599.99.

    For now, the tablet is only available for purchase through Samsung’s channel partners. That said, the Korean manufacturer has confirmed that the device will also be available on Samsung.com. Besides, the company also added that an LTE version of the tablet which works with the four major carriers in the US will also be available starting November 15th for $679.99.

    The Galaxy Tab Active Pro is specifically designed for users who work outdoors or in rough working conditions. Samsung claims that the device is also shock resistant, with a MIL-STD 810G certification. In addition, the tablet, as well as the bundled S-Pen, also get IP68 certification to offer protection against dust and water. Therefore, the Galaxy Tab Active Pro could be a good choice to use on the job without having to worry about potential damage to harsh working environments.

    galaxy tab active pro

    As for specs, the tablet sports a 10.1-inch Full HD display with 550 nits of max brightness. Under the hood, it gets powered by the Snapdragon 670 octa-core processor paired with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of built-in storage. The storage is further expandable up to 512GB via a microSD card.

    Elsewhere, the Galaxy Tab Active Pro features a fast-charging 7600mAh battery which is rated to deliver up to 15 hours of back up on a single charge. Besides, the device features a 13MP camera on the back and an 8MP front-facing camera. Other notable features include a fingerprint scanner, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and USB-C charging. Not to mention, the device supports POGO pin-based accessories such as keyboards and chargers.

    It’s also worth noting that the latest Galaxy Tab Active Pro is Samsung’s first rugged tablet to support DeX. With DeX, users can plug the tablet into a monitor to get a full-on desktop experience.

  • Apple officially unveils AirPods Pro with active noise cancellation

    Apple officially unveils AirPods Pro with active noise cancellation

    Apple has announced the latest version of AirPods called the AirPods Pro, which features active noise cancellation and in-ear design. The new AirPods Pro is now available for order in the US and will arrive in Apple retail stores on Wednesday, October 30.

    As for pricing, the latest version of AirPods gets a price tag of $249, and come bundled with a Qi-wireless charging case. In comparison, the AirPods 2 are priced at $199 with the wireless charging case and $159 without the wireless charging case.

    “The new in-ear AirPods Pro sound amazing with Adaptive EQ, fit comfortably with flexible ear tips and have innovative Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode. We think customers are going to love this new addition to the AirPods family,” said Phil Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IC9urbiVp4M

    AirPods Pro features a new, curvier design with flexible ear tips. Apple will include three sizes of flexible silicone ear tips. The company adds that the ear tip provides a comfy fit and superior seal in the user’s ears.

    Also, there’s an ‘Ear Fit Tip Test’ that is designed to ensure that users get the best audio experience by testing the quality of the seal and identifying the best ear tip size. It uses advanced algorithms that work together with microphones in each Airpod to measure the sound level, and detects whether the ear tip is the right size and fit for a user.

    Apple also notes that the AirPods Pro is sweat- and water-resistant for non-water sports and exercise. These wireless earbuds have a rating of IPX4.

    Other new features include audio sharing, which allows users to listen to the same song or watch the same movie with a friend by simply bringing another pair of AirPods close to the iPhone or iPad. Besides, Siri gets the ability to speak incoming messages as and when they arrive.

    Besides, there’s also a transparency mode, which lets customers listen to music while still hearing the surrounding environment.

    In terms of battery life, AirPods Pro is rated to deliver 5 hours of listening time, 4.5 hours with Active Noise Cancellation mode enabled, or 3.5 hours of talk time.

  • Galaxy S10 has a major flaw with its On-Screen fingerprint sensor

    Galaxy S10 has a major flaw with its On-Screen fingerprint sensor

    A major security flaw has been discovered in the Galaxy S10 Under-Screen fingerprint sensor, something the Korean giant touted as revolutionary when handset hit the market back in March. The flaw essentially allows any fingerprint to unlock the flagship handset with a cheap screen protector.

    According to a report by the Sun newspaper, the fingerprint authentication flaw was discovered by a woman after she used a cheap gel protector on her Galaxy S10. Shortly after, she discovered how she was able to bypass the fingerprint authentication by pressing her left thumbprint over the onscreen fingerprint sensor. The issue is that she hadn’t registered her left thumbprint with the device’s fingerprint authentication system.

    And that’s not all. Her suspicions were eventually confirmed when her husband was able to do the same by pressing either one of his thumbs against the phone’s on-screen fingerprint scanner. The couple then applied the screen protector gel on the Galaxy S10 of one of their relatives, and they experienced the same thing.

    Past reports have indicated that certain screen protectors are not compatible with Samsung’s fingerprint sensor because they leave a small air gap that can affect the scanning process. The sensor relies on ultrasound to detect 3D ridges of fingerprints in order to recognize users.

    Samsung has responded to the incident, stating that it was “aware of the case of S10’s malfunctioning fingerprint recognition and will soon issue a software patch.”

    For now, third party companies including Korean bank KaKaoBank have advised users turn off the reader until Samsung rolls out a fix for the same.

    The Galaxy S10 is the latest flagship from Samsung launched back in March this year. Following its official release, the company promised its technology as one of the industry’s most advanced biometric system, adding that it was, “engineered to be more secure than a traditional 2D optical scanner”

    That said, the latest incident seems to suggest that might not be the case, unless Samsung permanently fixes the issue in the next patch.

  • Google officially unveils the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL

    Google officially unveils the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL

    Google has officially unveiled the new Pixel 4 range at its Made by Google event in New York City. We already know a lot about these handsets thanks to an onslaught of leaks and rumors on the web. Therefore, as expected, the company announced two models of the handset called the Pixel 4 and the Pixel 4 XL.

    In terms of specs, the Pixel 4 gets a 5.7-inch OLED display while the Pixel 4 XL packs a 6.4-inch OLED screen. Both handsets offer a 90Hz display making it a significant upgrade over the Pixel 3. Under the hood, both handsets get powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor bundled with 6GB of RAM. As for storage, both models are offered in 64GB and 128GB storage options.

    In the photography department, both models feature a dual-lens primary camera setup, making it a first for the Pixel range. One is a 16MP standard lens while the other is a 12.2MP telephoto lens. For selfies, both devices come with an 8MP front-facing shooter.

    Another highlight with the new Pixel 4 range is the Motion Sense feature, which uses radar technology to detect hand movements. Now, this essentially allows users to interact with the device without touching the screen.

    Elsewhere, the smaller Pixel 4 gets a 2800 mAh battery, while the Pixel 4 XL packs a 3700 mAh battery.

    The Pixel 4 range also includes Google’s custom-built Titan M security chip to offer enhanced security to protect your sensitive data. As for OS, both handsets run the new Android 10. Besides, Google has also promised security updates for three years and access to Google’s advanced security features.

    The Pixel 4 range is offered in three color options. These include Just Black, Clearly White, and Oh So Orange. Both Pixel 4 models are now open for pre-orders, while shipping begins on October 24. The Pixel 4 starts at $799, while the Pixel 4 XL starts at $899.

  • Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet launched with faster processor, USB-C charging

    Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet launched with faster processor, USB-C charging

    Amazon just announced the updated Fire HD 10 tablet starting at $149.99. The new tablet gets several upgrades over its predecessor such as a faster processor, a full HD 1080p display, longer battery life, Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, as well as a new USB-C port for faster charging.

    Key specs on the new Fire HD 10 tablet includes a 10.1-inch FHD screen, an upgraded octa-core processor bundled with 2GB of RAM. As for storage, the device is offered in a choice of 32GB and 64GB storage options which is further expandable via microSD slot.

    Elsewhere, Amazon also promises up to 12 hours of battery life with the new Fire HD tablet. And thanks to USB-C charging, the tablet can fully charge in just 4 hours. Not to mention, the new Fire HD 10 tablet also marks the first device from Amazon to come with a USB-C port for charging.

    In terms of software, the Amazon Fire 10 comes pre-loaded with Android P with features such as hands-free Alexa. Besides, Amazon has also added a new picture-in-picture feature that minimizes certain video apps so you can watch videos while using other applications such as calendar, notes app, and more. Currently, the feature only supports Amazon’s own Prime Video app and Netflix, however, more apps will support the feature in the near future.

    The new Amazon Fire HD tablet is compatible with all of Amazon’s services such as Amazon Music, Prime Video, Kindle, Amazon App Store, and more. The tablet is now available to pre-order while shipping begins on October 30. Not to mention, the tablet will be offered in three new color variants apart from the standard black. These include blue, plum, white, and twilight blue.

    Amazon has also announced a new Kindle for kids starting at $199. It comes with a new case that features a built-in adjustable stand for easily adjusting the tablet’s position. Elsewhere, it offers the same perks as its predecessors such as a two-year extended replacement program along with a free year of Amazon’s FreeTime service. It offers thousands of premium apps, books, and TV shows and movies for kids along with advanced parental controls for tracking and keeping a check on the time spent in front of a screen.

  • OxygenOS 10.0.3 starts rolling out for the OnePlus 7T

    OxygenOS 10.0.3 starts rolling out for the OnePlus 7T

    OnePlus starts rolling out the latest OxygenOS 10.0.3 update for its latest OnePlus 7T flagship. The new update will be available via the OTA route and brings minor camera enhancements as well as several improvements and bug fixes.

    One of the notable features included in OxygenOS 4.7.6 is the camera improvements. As per the official changelog. the new update brings improved image quality, enhanced camera stability, as well as an improved user experience. Elsewhere, the new OxygenOS 4.7.6 update also brings general bug fixes and performance improvements. You can check out the complete changelog below:

    Oxygen OS 10.0.3 OTA changelog:

    System

    • General bug fixes and improvements

    Camera

    • Improved photo quality
    • Enhanced stability of Camera
    • User experience improvements

    As is usually the case with OTA updates, not all users would get the update as its being rolled out in phases. Hence, you’ll have to wait just a little longer before the update finally arrives on your OnePlus 7T handset. Users can also manually check for the update by heading over to Settings> System Updates.

    The OnePlus 7T will be available in the US starting October 18 for $599 via OnePlus.com, T-Mobile.com, and in T-Mobile stores. The handset will be offered in a choice of Frosted Silver and Glacier Blue color variants.

  • Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL box contents and full specs leaked

    Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL box contents and full specs leaked

    Google will officially take the wraps off the Pixel 4 range at its Made by Google event on October 15th. The handset has been the subject of numerous leaks in the past. In fact, it was leaked so often that Google officially revealed a teaser image of the handset in June. Today, we have yet another leak of the handset that spills the beans about the handset’s innards along with its box contents.

    The new report falls in line with earlier leaks about the Pixel 4, confirming that both pixel devices will run the latest Snapdragon 855 processor bundled with 6GB of RAM and 64GB/128GB of built-in storage. Besides, the new leak mentions of a ‘Pixel Neural Core’, which is possibly some marketing related term that replaces last year’s ‘Pixel Visual Core’ terminology. Elsewhere, the leak confirms the presence of a 90Hz OLED screen on both models, dual rear cameras, along with the Titan M Security Module.

    Below is the complete spec sheet of Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 as per the latest leak.

    Google Pixel 4 Specs

    Display: 5.7″ Full HD+ Smooth Display (up to 90Hz OLED) – Ambient EQ
    Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 – Pixel Neural Core
    Memory: 6 GB RAM
    Storage: 64 GB or 128 GB
    Cameras: 12 MP Dual-Pixel & 16 MP Telephoto
    Battery: 2800 mAh
    Audio: Stereo speakers
    Features: Face unlock, Motion Sense
    OS: Android OS with 3 years of security and OS updates
    Security: Titan M Security Module

    Google Pixel 4 XL Specs

    Display – 6.3″ Quad HD+ Smooth Display (up to 90Hz OLED) – Ambient EQ
    Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 – Pixel Neural Core
    Memory: 6 GB RAM
    Storage: 64 GB or 128 GB
    Cameras: 12 MP Dual-Pixel & 16 MP Telephoto
    Battery: 3700 mAh
    OS: Android OS with 3 years of security and OS updates
    Audio: Stereo speakers
    Features: Face unlock, Motion Sense
    Security: Titan M Security Module

    Apart from the spec sheet, the leak also sheds light on the list of items that’ll be included in the box. These include an 18W USB-C charger, a 1-meter USB-C to USB-C cable, a SIM ejector pin, a Quick Switch Adapter, and Quick Start Guide.

    Leaks about the Pixel 4 are pouring thick and fast on an almost daily basis. At this rate, we wonder if there’ll be anything we did not know about when Google officially unveils these devices on October 15th.

  • Microsoft Surface Pro 7 launched with 10th gen Intel Core processors

    Microsoft Surface Pro 7 launched with 10th gen Intel Core processors

    Microsoft announced the new Surface Pro 7 during its hardware event in New York. The latest Surface Pro model happens to be a rather subtle upgrade compared to the current model. It packs more or the less the same hardware as its current model, however, the new Surface Pro 7 comes with the latest 10 Generation Intel processors.

    With the new 10nm Ice Lake processors, the latest Surface Pro 7 is the most powerful Surface model to date. The chipset can be paired with up to a maximum of 16GB RAM and 1TB of storage. Elsewhere, the new Surface Pro 7 comes with a USB Type C port, which replaces the older DisplayPort connector.

    Not to mention, the USB Type-A port also comes with the new Surface model, along with Surface Connect and a microSD card slot. Besides, the device is claimed to offer up to 10 hours of battery life. Key specifications on the Surface Pro 7 include:

    Processor: Intel Core i3-1005G1, i5-1035G4 or i7-1065G7 CPU
    RAM: 4GB, 8GB or 16GB of 3,733 MHz LPDDR4x RAM
    Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB or 1TB SSD
    Camera: 5-megapixel front-facing camera with 1080p video; 10-megapixel rear-facing autofocus camera with 1080p video
    Two far-field Studio Mics, 1.6-watt stereo speakers

    Apart from these changes, the rest of the device remains pretty much unchanged. Therefore, current-gen Surface Pro owners might find it hard to upgrade to the new Surface Pro 7, unless they want a slightly more powerful device.

    Pre-orders for the new Surface Pro 7 have already begun, so you can head over the
    Microsoft Store to pre-book your device. It will be available starting at $749 while shipping begins on October 22.

    With the launch of the new Surface Pro 7, Microsoft has slashed the prices of the Surface Pro 6 by as much as $400. Hence, it might be a good time to get one for yourself given the subtle upgrades on offer with the new model.