Category: Technology

A huge debate is currently raging within the tech world — particularly for those individuals looking to purchase a new phone.The prices of these new prototypes continue to skyrocket as the Apple vs. Samsung battle shows no sign of slowing down. No longer can a smartphone be looked at as merely an item. At this point, top-of-the-line models are investments. Both brands are known for introducing hotly-desired products, and have engaged in a “space race” of sorts for the past decade.

With each company recently releasing tnews model, we are going to take a deeper dive into the revamped Samsung Galaxy S9.

The Samsung Galaxy S9 has an enhanced modem when compared to past models. As such, maximum data transmissions faster than it ever really has before. This is a boon for someone who’s job could rely solely on their phone. The rapid speed with which the phone operates is truly great.

Additionally, the camera capabilities with this phone are even more impressive. An improved slow-motion tool (960 FPS) captures up to four-times as many frames per second. For those aspiring Instagram photographers, one can easily manipulate the lighting with the advent of a dual aperture lens. Shutter speeds can also be adjusted — as can exposure levels and various filters. 4K video is also made available when recording your favorite musical act at a show, or even fun interactions between friends.

With streaming live television being such a popular endeavor in the current climate, the Galaxy S9 does a great job of providing the consumer with the best in quality for such an activity. Infinity Display allows for films, television, sports programs, and other digital media to simply pop from the screen. The speaker set-up within the phone’s construction is also quite impressive. They’re pro-tuned by AKG and featured surround sound from Dolby Atmos.

Other perks include a battery with up to 27 hours of life, a facial recognition unlocking component (which works in dark and light conditions), and also possessing the capability of being water-resistant for up to 30 minutes (in up to five feet of water).

The phone itself works in over 200 different countries (depending on one’s individual plan). This makes traveling with the phone quite nice. Three potential options from a color standpoint include Coral Blue, Midnight Black, and Lilac Purple. Retail price for this phone is $799.99 — though certain plans allow for the customer to own for as low as $33.33/month (for 24 months).

Simply put, there’s a lot to like about the Galaxy S9. One would do very well in acquiring such an implement for their personal and professional needs.

Image Source: Xfinity

It’s finally here! Apple — always on the forefront of innovation — recently introduced the world to the iPhone 11.

The earlier iterations of the phone (iPhone X, XS, XS MAX) were considered by many to be the most popular smartphone in the world, as well as the most advanced. A year later, this new version looks to be even better.

One can start ordering the iPhone 11 starting September 13th. These pre-ordered phones will start shipping on September 20th. Consumers are also able to buy the phones in-person on that date.

From a color standpoint, the iPhone 11 comes in black, red, green, white, purple, and yellow. The amount of variety has to be exciting for consumers all across the globe.

Here are some other differences when looking into each phone:

iPhone 11

The iPhone 11 is the base model of Apple’s newest invention. Currently, this phone is slated to be on the market with a price point of $699. When looking at the phone as a whole, the cost is rather fantastic for such a sophisticated piece of machinery. When buying/leasing a phone of this magnitude, remember that it’s an investment rather than a purchase.

The phone comes equipped with a 6.1 liquid retina display. It features dual cameras for which the consumer can utilize portrait mode for both pets and movement. It even has a night-mode function which will automatically change the images to include brighter colors. The water resistant nature of the phone can allow for the occasional usage in the bath or even the shower.

Additionally, the iPhone 11 has a number of video features. It includes a 4k projection with slo-mo and time lapse. The A13 Bionic Chip runs through this phone. As such, it enables it to be one of the fastest phones ever made. It also extends battery life an hour longer than any of the iPhone X models.

iPhone PRO and PRO MAX

These two versions are the most expensive ones of the group. Early estimations have the iPhone PRO going for $999, whereas the PRO MAX will run at $1,099.

The most striking facet with these two phones is the fact that both have three cameras. The SuperRetina RDX display enables users to zoom at 10-times the normal rate, as well as capturing a photo with very wide angles. For those users who love Instagram, these models appear to be total game-changers.

Like the normal base model, these two also have the A13 Bionic Chip. All video taken is also produced in 4k — something that gives the user as high of a quality video as possible.

Lastly, the technology for both the PRO and the PRO MAX is insanely impressive. The CPU function can perform 1 trillion operations per second. The telephoto lens – as mentioned above — enables zooming options not seen in any other phone. The all-day battery function is also a major plus for those who are out and about with their phones for large stretches of time.

All phones will be available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB.

Image Source: CNET

The office workplace can offer a multitude of problems for employees. For one, unruly coworkers may make the work environment more difficult than it truly has to be. Secondly, the job itself may be mundane and unfulfilling. Lastly, there’s the question of comfort.The prolonged sitting in chairs/at a desk isn’t something recommended by any doctors. Aside from being bad for one’s health, elongated periods of time in which one’s sitting at a desk could lead to carpal tunnel syndrome and back pain. The actual workstation can truly impact one’s ability to work — whether it be positively or negatively.In order to combat these ergonomic issues, many companies have created workstations designed to maximize the everyday process. Advancements have aimed to perfect stations with aesthetically sleeker, smaller, more fashionable, and more efficient feels. Five main hubs for effective workstations include Altwork, Amazon, Office Depot, OfficeFurniture2go.com, and schooloutfitters.com.

Above all, the space-saving component is a boon for both business owners and employees alike. No employee wants to operate with a cumbersome — sometimes even bulky workstation. Additionally, employers could (in theory) pack in more employees and work materials with smaller overall workstations. The spacing on the floor could be dispersed more evenly, or it could be condensed further to maximize available space.

Amazon has a vast collection of workstation options within their online stores. Popular choices such as the Dell Precision Tower 5810, the Acer Veriton X2640G SFF, the Apple Mac Pro, or the Lenovo ThinkStation P310 all can be found. These in particular work well when attempting to process complex applications rooted in computations, ornate graphics, analysis, and other forms of analytic data.

Office Depot offers an online store — as well as locations spread out all over the country. Expertly-designed desks offer much in the way of variety and price. Office members can opt for corner L-shaped desks, straight desks, or even standing desks. Prices range anywhere from $50-$500.

OfficeFurniture2go also specializes in workstation furniture. Aside from standard desks, the company offers a very comprehensive catalog of bookcases, chairs, tables, desks, and cabinets. There are many affordable choices here to specifically cater to the potential buyer’s needs. School Outfitters operates in a similar manner — though many of their choices are geared towards academia and schooling. Customer service is of great importance to School Outfitters. Their website offers a live chat option with a service specialist.

Lastly, Altwork stands out as the most lavish and expensive version of the workstation world. A state-of-the-art signature workstation costs up to $8,500. It’s akin to sitting in a comfortable, multi-positional dentist chair with options to utilize multiple monitors. This surely will ease the pressure on one’s back and joints when compared to hunching over the average desk. Side tables, dual monitor mount systems, and upper laptop mounts are also included for additional fees.

Businesses and employees alike are always attempting to enter the workplace with the utmost in professionalism. One’s personal space can truly hinder or improve levels of positivity. As such, acquiring an effective workstation may work wonders when hoping to attain ultimate productivity.

Image Source: CNET

Wireless headphones have become an item utilized in everyday life for millions and millions of people around the world. It’s quite convenient to simply pop in headphones without any annoyance of a cord. This way, people can leisurely listen to music when exercising, shopping, or simply relaxing at home.This piece will look at three companies who’ve produced high-end wireless headphones. There are even rumors as to whether newer iterations of wireless headphones will emerge sooner than later.AirPods (Apple)

The appearance of AirPods are relatively widespread at this point. Apple came out with a lightweight/cordless product perfect for auditory pleasure.

These headphones instantly connect to one’s Macbook, iPad, iPhone, or any sort of Apple product. The activation of Siri enables the consumer to adjust volume or change the song accordingly. The overall cachet of Apple products make the AirPods incredibly attractive as well as popular. There are even rumors about a potential AirPods 2 debut this upcoming March (though concrete information has not yet been released).

Beats by Dre

The popular Beats by Dre brand has four options within the wireless prism. The most expensive option is the Beats Studio3 Wireless. These range in price from $279.95 to $349.95. A Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling mechanism works to block external noise. Duly, a short 10-minute charge will add three hours of play (when battery is being drained).

The Solo3 Wireless option has up to 40 hours of battery life over the course of multiple days. One can take calls from this mechanism, as it connects with any device via Bluetooth. This specific model can be purchased for $239.95. Other smaller options as it pertains to ear buds include the BeatsX ($99.95) and the Powerbeats3 Wireless ($199.95).

Bose

Bose has a ridiculously comprehensive package of wireless headphones. The company created two sets of sunglasses (Frames Rondo, Frames Alto) which function as dual sunglasses/music devices. As the website says, ‘patented acoustic chambers’ sit in both arms of the sunglasses. People can listen to music, and even make calls on these sunglasses.

Additionally, Bose is flush with wireless headphones (SoundSport Free wireless) and even a wearable speaker (SoundWear Companion speaker) which function quite well as auditory devices. Lastly, Bose offers wireless headphones which completely encapsulate the ears. The QuietComfort 35 has 20 hours of battery life, and features adjustable noise cancelling (can be purchased for $349.95).

*All Bose products can be purchased from the company’s website — as well as from other online stores.

Image Source: Engadget

This golden age of technology continues to spit out continually evolved versions of laptops and tablets. At the risk of appearing obsolete, the newest versions of these entities are churned out expediently fast. It involves a number of different brands from countries all over the world. At the same time, these laptops are becoming more and more expensive. There are insurance plans put in place — but it isn’t enough for some consumers. These individuals want a tangible protective shield to keep their laptop in tip-top shape. For others, a colorful individualized shell brings much joy and personality.There are a number of exciting laptop covers all over the internet. Multiple online platforms have compiled sites dedicated to offering the very best in laptop accouterments. As opposed to making the trek towards a store in person, check out these online sites instead:SkinItSkinIt has skins/covers for all sorts of technological devises. By accessing the website’s home page, the prospective customer is introduced to a bevy of laptop-centric covers. From there, SkinIt offers covers from virtually every sized MacBook as well as for HP, Dell, Microsoft, Toshiba, Lenovo, Google, MSI, and Samsung. Aside from standard skins, customers even have the ability to customize their own covers. Costing roughly $35, an image can be added to create a personalize skin with a simple upload. SkinIt allows customers to preview the expected look before fully purchasing the cover.

DecalGirl

Upon entering DecalGirl, the site offers the customer 20-percent off an order by signing up for the site’s newsletter. A coupon will be then sent to the customer’s email. From there, a category entitled “Laptop Skins” is prominently displayed smack dab at the top of the page. DecalGirl offers exact fits for every major Laptop brand and size. There are preexisting protective devices within the comprehensive library. Duly, any prospective customer is offered the capability of creating their own skin. Similarly to SkinIt, DecalGirl allows for an uploading of an image — which will then be crafted into one’s personalized protective agent.

Office Depot/Office Max

Both Office Max and Office Depot have laptop accessories coming out of their proverbial ears. While it doesn’t offer the same sort of creative flexibility when compared to DecalGirl or SkinIt, there are other types of protective cases. Per the Office Depot website, there are 11 high functioning laptop sleeves made available to customers. They all vary in size and color. While they don’t encapsulate the laptop if it were sitting on a table, all of them are crafted from an intricate foam blend. The laptop conveniently slides into these portable compartments — which are then transportable with the greatest of ease.

Image Sources: Amazon

It’s that time again.

As we swing into the first quarter of 2020, the introduction of elite smartphones are flying fast and furiously.

A number of name brand companies have plans to release their 2020 versions, with Samsung already doing so. This piece will delve into three of the most prevalent brands as they pertain to smartphones.

Samsung

Samsung is a quite popular smartphone brand. When looking at its 2019 models, three come to mind: S10, S10E, and Samsung Galaxy S10+.

When looking at the future, the S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra 5G come to mind.

According to Samsung’s official website “With revolutionary 8K Video Snap, 5G connectivity and Space Zoom up to 100x, the way you capture and share your life will never be the same.” The S20 Ultra 5g comes loaded with 108MP, 10x optic zoom and 100x space zoom, bringing clarity to a whole new level. The S20 and S20+ 5G captures pixels at 64MP with 3x optic and 30x space zoom, respectively.

Now, to change the game one needs to change the connectivity. With 5G capabilities, uploading and downloading occures in an instant. Storage capacities reach as high as 1.5TB and up to 16GB RAM!

Three colors are available for the S20 ; Cosmic Gray, Cloud Blue and Cloud Pink. The S20+ also comes in Cloud Blue and Cosmic Gray, but also Cosmic Black. The S20 Ultra 5G comes in just Cosmic Black and Gray.

Lastly, Samsung also increased screen sizes in 2020. The S20 comes with a 6.2″ display, the S20+ has a 6.7″and the S20 Ultra 5G goes above and beyond at 6.9″. All come standard with Samsung’s Infinity-O Display and Gorilla Glass protection.

Samsung was the first to release their 2020 models, with it’s reveal on February 11th.

Google

Most recently, Google announced their latest Pixel models: the Pixel 4 and the Pixel 4 XL.

Both Pixels are priced the same as the 3 series from last year, with the new 5.7 inch Pixel 4 starting at $799 and the 6.3 inch 4 XL at $899. We expect Google to release the 4a and 4a XL eventually as well, and expect similar savings compared to the 3a and 3a XL.

A major advancement for the Google Pixel, aside from its features, is that T-Mobile, AT&T, and Sprint will now carry the Pixel 4, whereas previous models were exclusive to Verizon.

On the technology side, Google has stepped up its camera, offering multi-lens imaging at 12 megapixels and super zoom technology. Outside of the camera, face unlock and motion sense control are two new features gaining quite a bit of attention.

The Google Pixel 4 and 4XL offer the latest technology to the user, and is a perfect example of why so many are utilizing the Android operating system

Google hasn’t released details on it’s new models yet, but as the past few years have shown, we typically see new phones released from Google in May.

LG

LG has made some rather big waves within the smartphone world. Two android phones in particular — the LG V40 and the LG G8 ThinQ — are noteworthy from underneath the LG umbrella.

Costing roughly $850, the ThingQ is a heavy-hitter option. Conventional fingerprint sensors accompany a glass back plate and a respectable 6.1-inch display screen. The G8 also boasts whopping 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. As many have reported, performance with this phone is exceptional.

The LG V40 is known for its sublime speed, effective battery life, a beautiful screen resolution, and impressive sound. In other words, it’s a very good option for both surfing on the net, and streaming a sports event/movie/television show.

Keep your eyes open for details relating to a new LG release.

Image Source: Tech Radar

Cell phone usage across the world has reached a fever pitch. At this point, a mobile phone is a necessary tool for communication — perhaps more so than a landline option. Not only do cellphones act as supreme contact implements, but they also function to do pretty much anything else under the sun. Smartphones in particular are akin to mini computers. Though the bells and whistles of these options are quite exciting, there’s a heavy price to pay. Networks often coerce loyal customers into lengthy contracts.

These in turn can lead to quite an expensive monthly fee. Long-term commitments aren’t always ideal for those wanting to be financially conscious. Those people shouldn’t worry — as multiple wireless plans have been created to avoid long-term commitments. These ‘pay-as-you-go plans’ have begun popping up all over as another solid option.

T-Mobile

T-Mobile has long been a fixture within network provider plans. It’s long garnered a reputation for being a quality company. T-Mobile offers prepaid pay-as-you-go plans for as little as $3 a month. For instance, one can send 15 texts — and then will have 15 minutes left for the specific month. Normally, the most basic package will be priced at 10 cents per minute once the 30 minutes/month have been exhausted. All of this information and more can be found on their website, T-mobile.com.

AT&T

Much like T-Mobile, AT&T is a widely respected brand spanning the vast majority of the United States. It offers network provider plans in a number of ways — including the pay-as-you-go options. As seen on att.com, the AT&T GoPhone Daily Plan normally allows for a rate of $2 per day. The trick is that customers will not be charged if they opt to not use their phone on any given day. No charges will accrue if the phone is left alone. This package also includes unlimited minutes and text messages.

Republic Wireless

Republic Wireless is steadfast in offering no contractual obligations. Customers are afforded the chance to sign up with a number of different monthly plans. Should these plans not be to their liking, Republic Wireless will offer a full refund (within 14 days). Data plans themselves aren’t exorbitantly high — as they start for a paltry $20/month. Within that same token, Republic Wireless prides itself on providing excellent customer service coupled with speedy processing capabilities.

US Mobile

There’s a lot to like about the plans offered by US Mobile. As seen on their site, usmobile.com, the company prides itself on allowing the customers to craft their own plans catered to specific needs. 30-day plans include no hidden fees, no overages, no unexpected bills, and most of all — no contracts. The company essentially enables customers to pay what they think they’ll use. Furthermore, alterations to any plans can change at any give time. When checking the company’s website, one will find a plethora of different options — ranging from custom talk and text plans to rates for data, speed, and unlimited plans.

The need to be tethered to a lengthy phone contract can be mitigated with any of the four options detailed above. Individuals are able to efficiently purchase a pay-as-you-go phone plan centered around functionality and affordability.

The world of television has developed into an incredibly intricate entity in recent years. Improvements in quality have seen television garner an upper-hand when compared to film. The popularity of streaming television shows/series is simply off-the-charts — particularly with the millennial generation.

Television packages in general can be very expensive. On top of a basic plan, extra fees will be accrued for specialized channels. Even if one plans on watching only one of these ‘premium’ channels, they’ll likely be paying for a boat load of other networks in addition (based upon the inflexible nature of the said packages made available). As such, subscriptions to television streaming services are fashionable and affordable solutions to this potential problem.

Some of the most impactful cord-cutting services include Sling Box, PlayStation Vue, YouTube TV, DirecTV Now, Fubo TV, Hulu, and Netflix.

Each specific streaming service has its own presentation of various channels. With that said, all of them are generally less expensive than giants within the industry (DIRECTV, AT&T, Verizon FiOS, DISH Network).

Laid out nicely by PCmag.com, basic monthly packages for Sling TV ($20), PlayStation Vue ($40), DirecTV Now ($35), YouTube TV ($35), Hulu ($40), and Fubo TV ($35) are wonderfully affordable. This comes into play even further when factoring in the availability of premium channels (such as HBO and Showtime).

Each streaming service offers alterations for small fees. One will pay $15 extra a month for HBO as an add-on for the Sling TV basic bundle (Sling Orange). Foreign-language channels can also be procured for an additional price. All of these add-on features are clearly displayed on Sling.com.

PlayStation Vue is excellent as it pertains to pausing and rewinding live television. Duly, it allows for up to five different devices to stream at one time. It easily holds the candle in this category when compared to its competitors. Fubo TV is a stream service geared directly towards sports (mostly soccer) all over the world. For those crazed fans loving soccer from Portugal or rugby in Australia, this service might be the best option.

Netflix has changed the game in terms of film. For as low as $8/month and as high as $14, viewers gain access to thousands of films and Netflix-driven television programs. The catch is that while there is a vast library from which to pull from, other cable providers may offer different varieties of film. On-demand television programs from various networks may also appear elsewhere.

From a feasibility standpoint, all streaming services are quite easy to utilize. The navigation tools make the process a pleasant one. Whereas some television cable providers can include convoluted presentations, streaming services are generally clean and efficient.

While there are many perks in using streaming systems, there are also a few cons to consider.

For one, these systems are not absolved from technical issues. The appearance of bugs or blackouts could adversely impact one’s viewing experience. There’s also not really anything the consumer can do to account for these momentary hindrances.

Some streaming services will not allow features such as pausing and rewinding live television. If one’s unable to watch a show at its televised slot, there could be issues in terms of re-watching it later. Lastly, while starting prices are generally lower across the board, the viewer may not get access to each and every channel desired. It’s not as if the consumer can completely pick and choose the absolute perfect lineup of channels.

The world of streaming television has been revolutionized over the last few years. There are those excited about the push towards a more modernized method of entertainment. Additionally, some prefer the safeguard of cable boxes and cords. It’ll be up to the consumer to do their due diligence in finding out the preferred option to fit their specified needs.