FreshRSS

Zobrazení pro čtení

Jsou dostupné nové články, klikněte pro obnovení stránky.

What happened, Android? The top 7 best-selling smartphones last year were all iPhones

Samsung Galaxy S24 vs Google Pixel 8 vs Apple iPhone 15 angled 2
Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
  • A report from Counterpoint featuring data for December 2023 and all of 2023 showcases how Apple dominated the sales chart globally, with most of the top slots going to iPhones.
  • Samsung phones break into the list, but only with budget models.
  • Android flagships like the Galaxy S23 series did not create comparable market momentum to feature as best-selling smartphones.

We love our Android flagships, and in many ways, they are better than Apple’s flagship iPhone. However, consumers around the world do not necessarily agree. Consumers have overwhelmingly chosen iPhones when it comes to voting with their wallets, as seven of the top 10 best smartphones globally were all iPhones.

According to Counterpoint‘s latest report, the top seven best sellers in December 2023 were all iPhones, primarily spread across the iPhone 14 series and iPhone 15 series, with the iPhone 13 also scoring a seat. The top 10 smartphones in all of 2023 captured a combined market share of 20%, up from 19% in 2022.

What is sudo for Windows, and how do you use it?

Od: Gary Sims

If you’ve ever interacted with the Linux command line, you’re likely familiar with the sudo command, short for “super user do.” This command allows you to execute actions with elevated privileges, essentially running it as root. This is necessary for system administration tasks inaccessible to regular users without the required privileges. As an administrator, you can configure sudo to be accessible only to you, preventing others from using it.

Excitingly, Microsoft has recently announced the introduction of sudo for Windows. This isn’t a third-party addition; it’s built directly into the Windows operating system. At the time of writing, you’ll need an insider build starting with build 26052 to access this feature. Over time, this will gradually roll out to the beta channel and eventually to mainstream users. The version of Windows you’ll need to enable this feature will depend on when you’re reading this article.

Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 leak indicates Qualcomm could be back with confusing SoC names

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 dummy chip.
Credit: Hadlee Simons / Android Authority
  • A new leak has shed light on the SoC configuration of what is expected to be the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3.
  • According to information from this leak, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 could be placed between the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 2.

Qualcomm switched to a clean naming scheme a few years ago, using numbers like 4, 6, 7, and 8 to indicate the positioning of the SoC lineup and a generational suffix to indicate yearly releases. This clean naming scheme worked for a while, but the company is back on track to cluttering it with more confusing placements. A new leak suggests that Qualcomm is working on a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, and from the looks of it, it won’t be better than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 used on high-end Android flagships.

Leaker Digital Chat Station has shared the clock speeds of an upcoming Qualcomm SoC with the codename SM8635 and tentative marketing name Snapdragon 8s Gen 3.

Nothing says the Phone 2a is more powerful, lasts longer than Phone 1

nothing phone 1 logo 2
Credit: Oliver Cragg / Android Authority
  • Nothing has claimed that the upcoming Phone 2a is more powerful and efficient than the Phone 1.
  • The company says it’s 18% more powerful and 16% more efficient than the Nothing Phone 1.

Nothing revealed chipset details regarding the upcoming Nothing Phone 2a yesterday, confirming a Dimensity 7200 Pro SoC. The company also claimed that the new handset will be more powerful and efficient than the Nothing Phone 1.

Now, company co-founder Carl Pei has elaborated on these claims in an interview with Digital Trends.

The iPhone 15’s battery health is better than any iPhone before, and it’s catching up to Android

Apple iPhone 15 Pro All colors
Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority
  • Apple has updated its battery health guidance for the iPhone 15 series, claiming that its battery now lasts for 1000 cycles before it reaches 80% of its original capacity.
  • In comparison, the iPhone 14 series and prior models last for 500 cycles before reaching 80% of their original capacity.
  • Samsung and Google do not make such claims, but OPPO’s Battery Health Engine claims newer hardware can last up to 1,600 cycles before reaching 80% of its original capacity.

The iPhone 15 series has been one of the bigger changes to the iPhone in recent years, even though the phones may appear to have improved only incrementally. Plenty of small changes have added to a better year-on-year upgrade experience, and surprisingly, more are being found. Apple has just updated its guidance on the battery health of the iPhone 15, and it claims the battery on these phones can last twice as long before deteriorating.

Apple’s support document on battery health was recently updated to state that the batteries of the iPhone 15 models are designed to retain 80% of their original capacity at 1000 complete charge cycles under ideal conditions. In comparison, the batteries of iPhone 14 and previous models are designed to retain 80% of their original capacity at 500 complete charge cycles under ideal conditions.

You can now use your voice to launch Galaxy AI features

Samsung Galaxy S24 GalaxyAI Transcription Summary
Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
  • Samsung has revealed that you can now use the Bixby voice assistant to activate some Galaxy AI features.
  • You can activate live translation, summarization functionality, and more via your voice.
  • Some Galaxy AI features aren’t supported via Bixby, though.

Samsung announced a variety of Galaxy AI features alongside the Galaxy S24 series. Now, the company is making it easier to activate these features if you use its venerable Bixby assistant.

Samsung confirmed that you can now use Bixby to activate these brand-new Galaxy AI features. The manufacturer’s voice assistant supports the activation of Note Assist, Call Assist, Transcript Assist, Browsing Assist, and Interpreter.

New Google TV feature makes it faster to discover and reach content

Android TV quick access row

Credit: Google
  • Google has added a new quick-access row to the Google TV interface.
  • It will help users discover new content without switching from app to app.
  • The feature is only available in the US and will roll out widely in the country over the next few weeks.

Google is adding a small but handy new feature to Android TV devices in the US. Over the next few weeks, the Google TV interface will show a quick access row to help users discover new TV shows and movies to watch in a faster way.

The Google Assistant Android app is now Gemini by default

Google's Gemini app open with a greeting from the new AI assistant.

Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
  • Google is now turning Assistant into Gemini by default.
  • When you download the Assistant Android app, you get Gemini instead, complete with a different app icon.
  • You’ll have to manually switch back to Assistant to continue using the digital assistant.

Google introduced the Gemini Android app recently. It gives Android users an option to switch from Google Assistant to Gemini and make it the default AI helper on their phones. However, it looks like Google is getting ready to phase out Assistant completely and replace it entirely with Gemini.

Samsung confirms Galaxy AI is coming to Galaxy Wearables

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Wear OS 4

Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
  • Samsung says Galaxy AI will come to select Galaxy wearables in the near future.
  • The company did not confirm a list of devices, but our best guess is that the rollout will start with the Galaxy Watch lineup.
  • Galaxy AI will power intelligent health experiences on Samsung’s wearables.

Samsung launched the Galaxy S24 series with several AI smarts on board. All the AI capabilities of the phone come under the Galaxy AI umbrella. We already know that Samsung plans to extend Galaxy AI support to older phones, but the company just confirmed that it’s now looking to add Galaxy AI smarts to its wearables.

Is Telegram safe?

Although Telegram is a niche messaging service in the US and Canada, it’s absolutely gigantic worldwide, with over 104 million users in India alone. If you’re new to the service, stats like that can be a little intimidating — but they shouldn’t be, at least not on their own. Here’s what you need to know about Telegram’s security, including how to stay safe day-to-day.

JUMP TO KEY SECTIONS

How does Apple keep falling for the same iPhone repair scam?

Apple iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro Max 3
Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority
  • Two people were found guilty of defrauding Apple out of millions of dollars worth of iPhones.
  • The two sent over 5,000 fake iPhones to Apple for repair, which Apple replaced with real iPhones.
  • This isn’t the first time Apple has fallen for this same scam.

As the saying goes, fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me. Apple has once again fallen victim to a repair scam where fake handsets were switched with real models, like the iPhone 15.

According to a press release from the US Attorney’s Office, two residents of Maryland — both Chinese nationals — were found guilty by a federal jury in the District of Columbia of attempting to defraud Apple. Haotian Sun, 33, and Pengfei Xue, 33, were charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and mail fraud, which comes with a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

Myth busted: What experts say about using rice for wet devices

  • An Apple support page has surfaced, advising against putting your wet phone in rice.
  • Rice can trap moisture and damage your phone’s internals.
  • There are better methods to salvage electronics from water damage.

We’ve all been there: a beloved phone takes an unexpected dip in the pool, the sink, or even the dreaded toilet. In a moment of panic, we turn to the age-old “phone-in-rice” trick because that’s the best water damage prevention technique, right? Well, brace yourself for a splash of reality because that trusty method might be doing more harm than good.

Macworld has unearthed a 2024 support document from Apple that explicitly advises against the rice-drying method, cautioning that it could potentially worsen the damage to iPhones. The official support page states that “doing so could allow small particles of rice to damage your iPhone.” In fact, this revelation reinforces findings from previous research, which have debunked the efficacy of rice in drying out water-damaged phones.

Google in hot water: Lawsuit alleges Pixel 6 Pro has overheating defect

Google Pixel 6 Pro Periscope Zoom
Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
  • A class action lawsuit has been filed against Google over the Pixel 6 Pro.
  • The plaintiff alleges the company sold the Pixel 6 Pro, knowing it has a defect that causes overheating.
  • The lawsuit argues that Google should be forced to alert customers of the defect, recall the phones, and issue refunds.

Another day, another class action lawsuit for the tech giant known as Google. The latest legal problem for Google alleges the company knew the Pixel 6 Pro had a defect that caused it to become too hot to hold.

According to Law360, plaintiff Jennifer Hyatt filed a class action lawsuit against Google over the Pixel 6 Pro. The lawsuit claims that Hyatt went through “numerous” replacement Pixel 6 Pros only to discover that each one had an overheating defect. Hyatt believes this was not just some coincidence.

PS5 Pro rumors: What we know so far and what we want to see

PlayStation 5 PS5 images next to controllers 1
Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

Update, February 20, 2024 (02:50 PM ET): We’ve updated this PlayStation 5 Pro rumor hub with more speculation that it could launch this year.


Original article: On November 15, 2013, Sony launched the PlayStation 4. Three years later, almost to the day, Sony launched an upgraded version known as the PlayStation 4 Pro. Meanwhile, the PlayStation 5 launched on November 12, 2020. If you do the math, that means it’s been over three years since we saw the PS5 console launch. Does that mean we can expect a Sony PS5 Pro to launch soon?

Google Play Store tests AI feature that cuts through app description fluff

Google Play Store app on smartphone UI stock photo (1)
Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
  • Google appears to be testing a new AI-powered feature in the Play Store called “App Highlights.”
  • The feature briefly summarizes the key points of an app that you can view at a glance.
  • App Highlights is only available to selected users.

As Google continues to find ways to put AI into everything it does, it’s a little surprising we haven’t seen more AI features in the Play Store. But that could soon change as Google appears to be testing a new AI-powered summary feature in the marketplace.

According to Android expert AssembleDebug on X (formerly Twitter), Google is in the midst of testing an AI feature called “App Highlights.” It appears the purpose of App Highlights is to highlight key aspects of an app to provide a quick summary of what it is about.

Android 15 DP1 hits a snag: Google pauses downloads due to corruption bug

Android 15 logo on smartphone stock photo (7)
Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
  • Google has temporarily disabled downloads of Android 15 Developer Preview 1.
  • An issue with sideloading OTA images is causing a “Device is corrupted” message to appear.
  • The company recommends that developers flash a factory image to test devices instead.

Last week, Google announced the rollout of Android 15 Developer Preview 1 (DP1). However, that initial rollout has been cut short as the tech giant has “temporarily disabled downloads.”

On the Android Developers website, Google announced that it is briefly halting downloads of Android 15 DP1. According to the Mountain View-based firm, the reason is linked to a known issue with sideloading OTA images. It appears that when sideloading the DP1 build, this sometimes triggers a “Device is corrupted” message after the download is completed.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus review: Should you buy it?

The Galaxy S24 family has landed with super-long update support and Galaxy AI in tow. The Galaxy S24 Ultra might get the lion’s share of attention in Samsung’s marketing, but you would do well to remember Samsung’s oft-forgotten middle child before buying a new smartphone. It has much more screen real estate than the baby S24, but it’s not as heavy or expensive as the monstrous S24 Ultra, offering a competent middle ground. Sure, it’s missing some Ultra-tier features like the S Pen and dual telephoto camera lenses, but the Galaxy S24 Plus has a lot to offer the right buyer.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus review: At a glance

OPPO Reno 11 series to get ‘an array’ of generative AI features very soon

OPPO LOGO MWC 2023 01
Credit: Ryan McLeod / Android Authority
  • OPPO announced it has created a dedicated research and development center to create user-centric AI features and products.
  • The phone maker also revealed it would roll out generative AI features in the second quarter of 2024 to the OPPO Reno 11 series.
  • These AI features will come to Reno 11 series owners globally.

As companies like Samsung and Google go all-in on AI for smartphones, OPPO is following suit. The firm plans to start working on new generative AI tools and eventually bring them to its Reno 11 series later this year.

Today, OPPO announced it is taking a serious step into generative AI with the creation of a dedicated AI center. According to the press release, this AI department will focus on the research and development of AI and its applications to deliver user-centric AI features and products.

This is the OnePlus Watch 2, launching at MWC 2024

OnePlus Watch 2
  • OnePlus has shared official renders of the OnePlus Watch 2 and confirmed that it will launch on February 26, 2024, at MWC Barcelona.
  • The OnePlus Watch 2 has a stainless steel body and a sapphire crystal watch face.
  • It will come in two colors: Black Steel and Radiant Steel.

OnePlus recently began teasing its next smartwatch, the OnePlus Watch 2, aiming to compete against other top smartwatches. The company has now practically announced the new smartwatch, revealing its design in official renders alongside several key details.

The OnePlus Watch 2 will launch on February 26, 2024, at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. OnePlus is claiming the “best-ever battery life” with up to 100 hours offered through a full Smart Mode. The Watch 2 claims to come with a design that “epitomizes both elegance and durability,” using a stainless steel chassis and a sapphire crystal watch face.

Walmart buys Vizio: A new OS, more advertising on your Walmart TV?

Walmart and Vizio
Credit: Walmart
  • Walmart has announced that it will acquire TV maker Vizio in a deal worth $2.3 billion.
  • The company will also acquire Vizio’s SmartCast OS for TVs as a result of this agreement.
  • This theoretically opens the door to Walmart’s TVs and streaming boxes running Vizio’s platform.

Walmart is already a significant player in the TV business, offering its cheap in-house Onn TVs and its own TV boxes. Now, the company has stepped up its game in a big way as it’s just announced the acquisition of TV brand Vizio.

Walmart announced the acquisition of Vizio in a joint press release, confirming that this was a deal worth $2.3 billion.

ASUS reveals Zenfone 11 Ultra’s global launch date

ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra 2
  • ASUS has officially announced that the Zenfone 11 Ultra is launching on March 14, 2024, at 8 am ET.
  • Previously leaked renders indicate that the Zenfone 11 Ultra could be a rebrand of the ROG Phone 8.

ASUS has been sticking to a smaller phone for its Zenfone lineup in recent years, but the company is expected to depart from its current conventions this year. Leaks have revealed much about the Zenfone 11 Ultra and how it could be a rebranded ROG Phone 8 Pro. Now, ASUS has officially confirmed that the Zenfone 11 Ultra is launching globally on March 14.

2024 02 20 17 45 37

Circle to Search won’t work if Google isn’t your default assistant (Update)

Samsung Galaxy S24 Circle to Search prompt
Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
  • A teardown of the Google app suggests that Circle to Search won’t work if Google isn’t your default assistant app.
  • This is an obvious limitation but still disappointing if you’re using an alternative assistant.
  • Google’s string suggested that Circle to Search wouldn’t work if Google wasn’t your default search engine too.

Update: February 21, 2024 (1:30 AM ET): We originally reported that the Google app’s strings suggest Circle to Search won’t work without Google as your default search engine. Now, 9to5Google has verified that changing to a different search engine has no effect on the feature.

Circle to Search without Google assistant

Garmin’s new GPS running watches promise high performance at a pocket-friendly price

Garmin Forerunner 165 series

Credit: Garmin
  • Garmin has launched the Forerunner 165 and Forerunner 165 Music.
  • Starting at $249, the GPS watches marry Garmin’s staple running features with AMOLED displays.
  • The company claims you can get up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.

Garmin is launching two new fitness watches today — the Forerunner 165 and Forerunner 165 Music. The two new wearables succeed Garmin’s uber-popular Forerunner 55 running watch that launched back in 2019. Needless to say, Garmin’s budget-friendly lineup was long due for a refresh.

This new SIM tech lets you use a ‘backup’ SIM on your SIM card

rSIM
Credit: rSIM
  • rSIM is a new SIM tech that lets you pack a backup SIM in your SIM card.
  • It claims to test your device’s connection directly from the SIM itself and switches providers automatically during disruptions.
  • This should theoretically help maintain always-on connectivity.

We don’t think about the SIM inside our phone that often, but it inarguably has some of the most critical connectivity functions to serve. Without a SIM, your phone will not connect to a network, and you will be left without 4G, 5G, calling and texting features. That’s one reason why many people prefer using dual-SIM phones, as they can stay connected through the second network if the first one goes down. If that has been your concern, a new SIM tech lets you use one SIM card to pack in two SIMs so that you retain always-on connectivity.

CSL Group has announced the new “rSIM” tech, short for Resilient SIM. rSIM claims to use patented tech to check its own network connectivity and switch providers automatically if and when disruptions happen. rSIM stores two independent mobile operator profiles on a single SIM card, so you always have a backup telecom connection with you. Deutsche Telekom IoT and Tele2 IoT have been announced as rSIM’s first connectivity partners.

Nothing Phone 2a chipset revealed: It came down to these three chips

Nothing Phone 2a processor and RAM
Credit: Nothing
  • Nothing has confirmed that the Nothing Phone 2a will offer a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro chipset.
  • The company said that the Dimensity chip was chosen over two other Snapdragon chips.

Nothing is continuing its drip-feed of Nothing Phone 2a spec disclosures in the run-up to its March 5 launch. Now, the smartphone brand has revealed the new phone’s processor.

Nothing confirmed in a YouTube video that the Nothing Phone 2a will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro processor. This is the first Nothing phone with a MediaTek chipset, following in the footsteps of the Snapdragon 778G Plus and Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 in the Nothing Phone 1 and 2 respectively.

Nothing Phone 2a renders leak again: A bold approach to design?

Nothing Phone 2a SmartPrix 1
Credit: SmartPrix
  • A leaker has posted new renders apparently showing the Nothing Phone 2a.
  • These images show a dramatically different design compared to previous, incorrect renders.

One of the biggest mysteries regarding the upcoming Nothing Phone 2a is what the phone will look like. A trusted source recently published purportedly leaked renders but later confirmed they were inaccurate. Now, the same source has posted what they claim are accurate Nothing Phone 2a renders.

Veteran leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer and SmartPrix posted new Nothing Phone 2a renders, and we get a decidedly different design compared to the previously posted images. Check the gallery below, showing an apparent Dark Gray model.

WhatsApp could soon protect your profile photos even better from stalkers

Holding smartphone with WhatsApp logo on the screen Stock photo
Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
  • WhatsApp is testing a privacy feature that blocks the ability to take screenshots of profile photos.
  • This feature would work alongside other existing privacy features, such as restricting your profile photos to only your contacts, and would prevent unauthorized use of profile photos.

With the number of people using WhatsApp daily, it’s no surprise that some bad actors find ways to take undue advantage of the platform. Profile photo abuse is one of the most common annoyances, wherein people download your profile photo for nefarious reasons. The platform has taken plenty of steps to make this difficult, and a new report suggests it could soon add a final nail to this coffin and solve the problem for good.

According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is rolling out a new privacy feature to beta testers. This feature blocks screenshots of profile photos.

What is x86-64-v3? Understanding the x86-64 microarchitecture levels

Od: Gary Sims

The term x86-64v3 is once again a discussion point for Linux users, sparking curiosity and questions about its relevance to the platform. But what is it, why does it matter to Linux, and what is all the fuss about? Find out everything you need to know about x86-64v3 below.

A brief overview of microarchitecture history

The story of the x86 instruction set began about 39 years ago with the introduction of the Intel 80386, commonly referred to as the 386. This was a pivotal moment in the history of modern desktop and server computing. Launched in 1985, the 386 was Intel’s first 32-bit processor and was equipped with a full memory management unit, enabling it to run operating systems that utilize virtual memory. However, the evolution of x86 technology didn’t stop at the 386. Over time, this older chip, its microarchitecture, and its instructions were phased out. Debian Linux discontinued 386 support in 2005 and completely removed it in 2007. The Linux kernel followed suit in 2012, despite Linux’s original development on 386 and 486 machines.

Galaxy Ring launch window leaked, could pack plenty of features

Galaxy Ring at Galaxy Unpacked
Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
  • The Galaxy Ring will reportedly launch at an Unpacked event in the second half of July.
  • It’s also believed that the smart ring offers ECG functionality, blood flow measurement, and more.

Samsung teased its long-rumored Galaxy Ring at the Galaxy S24 series launch last month. Now, it looks like we’ve got more information about the upcoming wearable.

ET News (h/t: Revegnus on X) reports that the Galaxy Ring is scheduled to launch at an Unpacked event in the second half of July. This event will presumably see the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 revealed too.

Android 15 features: Everything you need to know

Android 15 logo on smartphone on coffee table stock photo (6)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Android 14 was publicly launched with the Pixel 8 series back in October 2023. We’re a few months into the new year, and Google has begun testing the next version of Android with the release of Android 15 Developer Preview 1 for Pixel devices. This is the first available update for Android 15 and is intended for developer use. Still, it gives us a good look at what to expect in the next major release to the Android platform.

Here’s how AI message summaries will work on Android Auto

Android Auto Summaries

Credit: Google
  • Google has detailed how the new Assistant AI summaries feature will work on Android Auto.
  • Assistant will use AI to summarize group chats and individual texts with over 40 words.
  • The feature won’t be available for all devices, regions, countries, and languages.

Google announced Assistant AI summaries for Android Auto alongside the launch of the Galaxy s24 series. The feature utilizes Google Assistant to automatically summarize long messages or group chats while you’re driving without having to reach for your phone.

Android 15 comes with an important WebView change that could speed up apps

Android 15 logo on smartphone stock photo (3)
Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
  • Android 15 Developer Preview 1 is locking an important working component of the Android System WebView into memory.
  • This will prevent the Android system from killing the process and restarting it frequently.
  • Many apps use WebView to display webpages and other internet content, and this change could improve how they work.

Android 15 is the next big update for the smartphone platform, and we’re slowly getting more information on the changes it brings. One of the more important changes that Android 15 could bring is the ability for the system to pin Android’s WebView to memory, consequently speeding up apps that rely on WebView for functioning.

Before understanding the change, we need to understand what WebView is and why it is important. WebView, also known as the Android System WebView, is the part of the Android OS that many apps tap into to display a webpage. Apps that want to display a webpage do not need to build a full internet browser, as they can call upon the Android System WebView to display web content.

Apple’s first foldable iPhone could launch after Galaxy Z Fold 8

Apple iPhone logo macro

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
  • Apple is reportedly aiming to launch its first foldable iPhone in September 2026.
  • It’s believed that the company has transferred some Vision Pro employees to the foldable project.
  • Apple apparently expects to sell 50 million foldable iPhones.

Rumors regarding a foldable iPhone have been around for a while now, but it looks like we might have a potential launch window for Apple’s first foldable phone.

Major Galaxy Fit 3 leak gives us last piece of the puzzle, reveals full specs

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 official image 1 resized

Credit: Samsung Gulf

  • Marketing and training materials for the Galaxy Fit 3 have leaked.
  • The materials reveal the full specifications of the wearable.
  • We also get a look at some of the features it will have.


When it comes to keeping information under wraps, Samsung hasn’t exactly done its best with the Galaxy Fit 3. On the last day of January, the company accidentally published the official Galaxy Fit 3 product page, only to take it down moments later. Now marketing materials for the device have leaked and it gives us a complete picture of what to expect.

The folks over at The Tech Lookout appear to have got their hands on marketing and training material for the Galaxy Fit 3. That material appears to give us the full specifications for the upcoming fitness tracker.

According to the images, the Galaxy Fit 3 may have a 1.6-inch AMOLED display panel with a resolution and pixel density of 256 x 402 pixels and 302 PPI. The device is said to weigh 36.8g and measure at 42.9 x 28.8 x 9.9mm. In comparison, the Galaxy Fit 2 weighed 21g and had a 1.1-inch display with a 126 x 294 resolution.

It appears you can also expect 16MB RAM and 256MB storage, a 208 mAh battery, an aluminum body, and an IP68 rating with 5ATM of water resistance. Samsung may have also fit in two additional sensors: a barometer and a light sensor. The materials mention three colorways as well, including gray, silver, and pink gold.

The leak from January 31 revealed quite a few features already, like 13 days of battery life, over 100 workouts, fall detection, and more. These materials from today’s leak — which can be seen below — mention many of the same features we previously heard about. However, this new leak also provides the talking points Samsung may have been planning to use when announcing the device.

Despite all of this information we now have about the Galaxy Fit 3, we’re still waiting on a price and release date. The sudden influx of leaks suggests that an announcement may not be far off.

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 rumors: Everything we know so far and what we want to see

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 sports bands official 1

Credit: Samsung Gulf

While Samsung has made many great smartwatches in recent history, it’s been three years since Samsung launched a dedicated fitness tracker. Recently, a flurry of rumors suggests this is about to change with the upcoming launch of the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3. Here’s everything we know about the Galaxy Fit 3 rumors, as well as what we’d like to see this time around.

Will there be a Samsung Galaxy Fit 3?

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 official image 1 resized

Credit: Samsung Gulf

Samsung has yet to confirm the existence of the Galaxy Fit 3 officially, but that didn’t stop the company from accidentally leaking a bunch of information about it through the Samsung Gulf website on January 31, 2024. Needless to say, we can safely say there will be a new Fit in 2024.

The first rumors about this wearable started in late 2023 and have heated up significantly in 2024. At this point, we know what it looks like, a lot of the expected hardware, and a few other details. The Galaxy Fit 3 is inevitably coming soon, but what’s less clear is Samsung’s exact launch window.

What is the most likely Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 release date?

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 official image 16

Credit: Samsung Gulf
  • Samsung Galaxy Fit — February 20, 2019
  • Samsung  Galaxy Fit 2 — September 3, 2020

The recent increase in leaks makes it clear the Galaxy Fit 3 release date isn’t far off, but there’s really no chatter around the actual date. Looking back at the past two models shows no clear history. Still, it is worth noting the original Samsung Galaxy Fit did arrive in late February of 2019, so it’s certainly possible Samsung could target a similar time frame here, perhaps for around Mobile World Congress. We predict the Galaxy Fit 3 will be here no later than the end of Spring, but again, that’s just speculation for now.

What rumored specs and features could the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 have?

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 official image 4

Credit: Samsung Gulf

While we don’t know what the official Galaxy Fit 3 specs will look like, we have a fairly accurate idea. Pretty much all the major specs details come from the Samsung-initiated leak mentioned earlier in this guide.

Design and colors

The Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 is an attractive fitness tracker with a sizable 1.6-inch 256 x 402 AMOLED, an improvement over the Fit 2’s 1.1-inch 126 x 294 AMOLED display. It also weighs 18.5g without the straps, or 36.8g if they are attached. That makes the Fit 3 a bit heavier than its predecessor at 11.3g without the straps, and 21g with them.

As you’d expect, the Fit 3 is designed to handle the elements with a 5ATM/IP68 rating that should be able to not only handle inclement weather but is also perfect for tracking your swims.

The straps get a major upgrade for the Fit 3, ditching the old wrap-around style of bands with quick-release straps that are easy to detach and swap out. Lastly, it comes in three case colors: black, rose gold, and silver.

What’s on the inside?

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 official image 2

Credit: Samsung Gulf

We know more about the hardware than just its display. In fact, the entire spec sheet has leaked. Let’s start with some of the confirmed sensors. You can expect an accelerometer, gyroscope, and a heart rate sensor. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like the Galaxy Fit 3 will offer more premium features like built-in GPS and oxygen sensors.

The Galaxy Fit 3 has a 208mAh battery that can last up to 13 days. It’s worth noting the Fit 2 claimed to offer up to 21 days of life with 15 typical, so current rumors indicate the Fit 3 is a slight step down here. As a consolation, it can at least be charged extremely quickly going from zero to 65% in just 30 minutes.

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 3

Credit: The Tech Outlook

The battery hit might be unfortunate, but it’s important to understand the Fit 2 was much less powerful, which might have helped with battery life but also led to occasional performance issues. The Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 is not only guaranteed to have a much faster processor, but it also has much more RAM at 16MB versus just 2MB on the original. The storage has also jumped from 32MB to 256 MB. As you’d expect, a lot of the communications standards have also improved, such as the move from Bluetooth 5.1 to 5.3.

Special features and software

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 official image 13

Credit: Samsung Gulf

The Galaxy Fit 3 is expected to run a custom OS, which is a similar story to its predecessor. It’s unclear if the new OS will just be a modified upgrade or a more significant overhaul. That said, the original had a decent interface that was only hindered by its weak hardware. In other words, we can expect something at least as good, if not much better.

We might not know much about the new OS and software underneath, but we can tell you it isn’t expected to support third-party apps and will offer a pretty minimalist experience sticking to relatively basic apps like Calendar, Weather World Clock, and Samsung Health. Of course, you can also expect a host of new health and fitness software features, including the ability to track over a hundred types of workouts ranging from walking or running to biking and swimming.

Other health and safety features include a new 5-click shortcut to send an SOS message or display medical information for first responders, sleep tracking, snore detection, and fall detection with SOS notification alerts. That’s not all, as rumors also suggest it will feature over a hundred watch faces, a Find My Phone feature, and basic smartphone notifications for messaging and calls. There’s even supposedly a camera control function.

What might the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 price be?

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 official image 7

Credit: Samsung Gulf
  • Samsung Galaxy Fit — $99.99
  • Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 — $59

The Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 is likely to be priced somewhere around $100 or less, at least if history is any indicator. After all, the original Fit model was priced at $99.99 and the second iteration was even $40 cheaper. While it might seem like a foregone conclusion that the Fit 3 would be priced similarly to its predecessor, it’s important to consider that it has been three years and our economy has changed significantly.

On one hand, the Galaxy Fit 3 could opt for a conservative approach by introducing a price hike, aligning with the Fitbit Inspire 3 at approximately $100. That’s the safe route, though. Pricing it below this threshold could position the Fit 3 as a compelling alternative to the Fitbit Inspire series and introduce serious competition to the budget fitness tracker market, which is largely dominated by Xiaomi and HUAWEI.

Should you wait for the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3?

Samsung Galaxy Fit 2 official composite

Credit: Samsung

It’s unclear exactly when the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 will launch but I can tell you I wouldn’t recommend the aging Fit 2 ($60 at Amazon) at this point. This leaves us with just a few alternatives. You could spend more and get a smartwatch with fitness-tracking capabilities but there aren’t nearly as many options for true fitness-tracking bands.

For those who want a fitness band, you can either go with a Fitbit tracker like the Inspire 3 ( ) or Charge 6 ( ), or you can save money and go with a budget tracker like the Xiaomi Mi Band 8 ( ) or HUAWEI Band 8 ( ). Or you could just wait!

Generally, with these types of rumor roundups and wishlists for future products, I always say it’s not worth the wait, but the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 is a rare exception. Depending on its price tag, the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 could prove to be in a sweet spot between expensive trackers and budget offerings. At least until we know more, I would say the only reason to get a fitness tracking device now is if you are fine with getting a more full-featured smartwatch instead.

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3: What I want to see

Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 official image 5

Credit: Samsung Gulf

While we already know a lot about the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3, there’s at least a few things that remain clear around the actual sensor accuracy, companion apps, and more. Here’s my wishlist for just a few things I’d like to see:

Better heart rate accuracy

Pricing at under $69 back in 2020 pretty much ensured the Fit 2 was going to perform less than great when it came to sensor accuracy, just as we’ve seen from HUAWEI and Xiaomi budget fitness trackers. I’d like to see the Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 do better here.

Making its heart rate sensor a major focus could help set the Fit 3 apart from other trackers in the $100 or less range, considering how rare accurate heart rate sensors are in the budget segment.

Better companion app experience

The Fit 2 tracker’s integrated UI was quite good but the companion app experience wasn’t nearly as seamless. For starters, it required two different apps. For Android users, you needed the Galaxy Wearable mobile app and Samsung Health, while iOS users needed the Samsung Galaxy Fit app alongside Samsung Health.

Here’s hoping Samsung has either integrated its Fit 3 companion features into Samsung Health completely or it has a stand-alone app and bypasses Samsung’s health suite altogether. The former seems more likely, and preferable, but the main point is Samsung needs a flawless, easy-to-use companion experience that rivals Fitbit. This not only will help it attract former Fitbit users but also help the Fit 3 compare favorably to the jumbled app experience most other cheap trackers offer.

Combining the points above with a $75 price tag

I’ve already spoken a bit about the pricing above and how it’s likely the Fit 3 will price somewhere between $69 and $100. I feel that hitting around the $75 mark could be the perfect sweet spot here. This would make the Samsung Fit 3 seem like a great cheaper alternative to Fitbits, and yet its brand power could entice budget shoppers to go above the typical $40 to $65 range most budget trackers fall within.

Furthermore, combining this price range with the improved heart rate sensor and a better app experience would easily land budget trackers in serious trouble. Most of the cheap trackers have weak sensors and confusing app experiences, which would make the Fit 3 feel like a fresh breath of air.

Chrome on Android will soon let you group a single tab

Google Chrome logo stock photo 2

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

  • Chrome for Android will soon let you group a single tab.
  • The feature was spotted in the latest Canary build of the mobile browser.
  • It can be activated in the mobile browser by enabling a flag.


If you’re a stickler for tab organization, then you’re probably a fan of Chrome’s “Tab Group” feature. While the feature has been around on both desktop and Android for quite some time, the mobile version is getting an ability previously only available on desktop.

It appears Google is starting to roll out single tab groups to the Canary version of Chrome for Android. The feature first appeared in the early build version of the mobile browser back in January, but it was grayed out at the time. In the most recent Canary build, however, the feature is now functional and can be enabled through an experimental flag, according to @Leopeva64 on X (formerly Twitter).

Once enabled, users can group a single tab by tapping on the three vertical dots. When the drop-down menu appears, you’ll see the “Group tab” option. Selecting the Group tab option will allow the user to pick the tab they want to group, rename the tab group, and more.

The feature is currently only available in Chrome Canary, which means it is still in the early stages. As such, the feature is only meant to be used by developers who are testing out new features for Chrome for Android. It’s unclear when Google could bring it to the stable version of the mobile browser.

Android 15 could protect your most sensitive notifications from scammers

  • Google may be cracking down on a known Android security attack method in Android 15.
  • Malicious apps that can read your notifications can intercept one-time passwords (OTPs) and hijack your accounts, and Google wants to prevent this.
  • Code within Android 15 suggests Google might stop untrusted apps from reading notifications with OTPs.


It’s essential to protect your online accounts so they don’t fall into the hands of hackers, which is why you should use a passkey or enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. While some forms of 2FA are more secure than others, some platforms only support the most basic methods, wherein your one-time passwords (OTPs) are sent via email or text. These methods are convenient since they don’t require additional setup, but they are also less secure since they’re easier to intercept. Fortunately, Android 15 might be adding a new feature that prevents your OTPs from being read by malicious Android apps.

While digging through the Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1 update, I discovered the addition of a new permission named RECEIVE_SENSITIVE_NOTIFICATIONS. This permission has a protectionLevel of role|signature, which means it can only be granted to applications with the requisite role or to applications that the OEM signs. While the exact role that grants this permission hasn’t been defined yet, it’s likely that Google doesn’t intend to open this permission up to third-party apps.

<permission android:name="android.permission.RECEIVE_SENSITIVE_NOTIFICATIONS" android:protectionLevel="role|signature"/>

As for why I believe that, it’s because this permission is tied to a new, in-development platform feature that aims to redact sensitive notifications from untrusted apps that implement a NotificationListenerService. This is an API that lets apps read or take action on all notifications. Users need to manually grant apps permission in Settings before the NotificationListenerService API becomes available, though.

Android notification access settings

Notification access settings in Android 14 on a Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority

Given how powerful this permission and API are, it’s no surprise that Google would want to limit the kind of data that apps can get from them. We don’t know precisely what constitutes an “untrusted” app, but it’s likely any apps that don’t hold the new RECEIVE_SENSITIVE_NOTIFICATIONS permission. This permission would probably only apply to select system apps.

We also don’t know exactly what kinds of notifications Google thinks are “sensitive,” but we have reason to believe they’re referring to notifications with 2FA codes. While digging through the source code for Android 14, we discovered a new flag called OTP_REDACTION that is used to gate “the redaction of OTP notifications on the lock screen.” This flag is currently unused in Android 14, though, as it’s likely something that Google intends to release with Android 15.

With the addition of the OTP_REDACTION flag and the RECEIVE_SENSITIVE_NOTIFICATIONS permission, Android will have three ways to protect users from leaking their 2FA codes to third parties. The OTP_REDACTION flag suggests that Android will stop users from leaking their 2FA codes on the lock screen, while the RECEIVE_SENSITIVE_NOTIFICATIONS permission suggests that Android will stop untrusted apps from reading notifications with 2FA codes. Finally, an existing feature from Android 13 blocks users from enabling an app’s notification listener service if it was installed from an untrusted source.

Facebook bought WhatsApp 10 years ago and didn’t ruin it like we feared

whatsapp facebook logos

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

Opinion post by
Rita El Khoury

10 years ago to the day, Facebook announced that it was purchasing WhatsApp for $19.6 billion — that’s billion, with a B. The news rocked the online world for several reasons, not the least of which being Facebook’s iffy privacy and data handling reputation, plus its propensity to use ads anywhere, which contradicted with WhatsApp’s core principles and what everyone had loved about it so far.

The online media and communities weren’t clement about that purchase either, criticizing the sale, scrutinizing Facebook’s promises, and generally being pessimistic about WhatsApp’s future. As a WhatsApp user myself and a forced Facebook user (my friend created my profile before we graduated college so we could all keep in touch, and I barely used it), I felt conflicted by all of it. I wanted to move away from WhatsApp right then, but I also had all of my friends and family on it. Even some businesses too. I was sure not everyone would be as bothered as I was by the ownership transfer and, even if I could convince my close ones, I couldn’t convince an entire nation and culture.

Using WhatsApp for the first few months after that purchase felt 'dirty.'

Using WhatsApp for the first few months after that purchase felt “dirty,” but the sale slowly faded into the back of my mind. Every few months, something would come up that would remind me of Facebook’s involvement with WhatsApp, I’d feel icky again, and then just learn to ignore it. Even when WhatsApp changed its policies, I clicked on “Agree,” with all the resentment and resignation of the world.

Then WhatsApp’s co-founders left Facebook, and Cambridge Analytica happened, followed by many other Facebook scandals. With a bit of distance, and knowing I objectively didn’t like where things were at but was still sticking around on WhatsApp, I slowly realized that my relationship with the service transcends any other relationship I have with other apps and messaging apps on my phone.

My relationship with WhatsApp transcends any other app on my phone; it is engrained in my real life.

WhatsApp isn’t just WhatsApp to me, it’s the way I communicate with everyone I love. It has photos and voice notes from my dead grandma, my early flirtations with my now-husband, and every high and low I went through during those hellish 2019-2021 years while my country’s economy collapsed, COVID happened, half of Beirut blew up, I shut down my pharmacy, and I moved to France. WhatsApp was, whether I wanted to or not, engrained in every aspect of my real life. You can’t fabricate an emotion like that with an app.

With time, too, I noticed that WhatsApp didn’t get worse — at least not as bad as other social networks and messengers did. Until this very day, the service is still, mostly, ad-free, unlike the scourge of Instagram (Facebook’s other big social purchase). There’s no algorithmic feed either. You control your contacts, who can reach out to you, who sees you and your photos, which WhatsApp communities, channels, and businesses you communicate with, which groups can invite you in, and so on. You get end-to-end encryption across multiple devices too. All in all, 10 years later, it feels like WhatsApp has escaped the worst of Facebook.

10 years later, it feels like WhatsApp has escaped the worst of Facebook.

And in a way, Facebook itself has recently been on a bit of a redemption arc. Oh, I’m not even remotely convinced it’s all in good faith, but it was fun to see people rooting for Threads over X, for example, or falling for the Meta Quest 3 over the Apple Vision Pro. Look how far we’ve fallen that we’re choosing the least bad of two very bad options. But I digress.

I guess what I’m trying to say is that despite everything that felt iffy, 10 years ago, about this deal, it didn’t turn out as bad as we had all collectively imagined back in 2014.

Today, Telegram and Signal are right there, but they play that supporting actor role in my life, and I wouldn’t bat an eyelash if I lost access to them this very instant. WhatsApp on the other hand? It’s how I talk to my parents and aunt back home and that, my friends, says it all.

Android phone maker abandons Android completely to go ‘all in on AI’

Meizu 16s back, showing logo and cameras

  • Meizu has decided to pivot away from making traditional Android phones.
  • The company says it will instead focus on AI projects, possibly like the Rabbit R1 and the Humane AI Pin.
  • Meizu’s Android skin will transition to working on AI terminal devices.


Meizu isn’t as well known as Samsung or Google, but it has been competing in the Android smartphone space for over a decade now. But it looks like that run is about to end as the company plans to shift its focus to AI.

Yesterday, Meizu released an announcement video to reveal that it will stop working on “traditional smartphone projects.” Instead of making Android smartphones, the firm says it is going “all in on AI.”

In the video, Meizu shows it is not working on a follow-up to the 20 series that was released last year. According to GSMArena, the Chinese electronics maker does not clarify if it will completely stop making smartphones. However, it does reference devices like the Humane AI Pin and Rabbit R1.

As for its Android skin, known as Flyme OS, it appears the company wants to modify it and put it on AI terminal devices — like infotainment systems for vehicles made by its parent company. It’s said this new mobile OS will come out this year along with some new hardware.

Despite the pivot away from traditional smartphones, Meizu claims it will continue supporting its smartphones in China. However, there’s no word on if it will continue to support smartphones sold overseas.

Apple iPhone 16 rumors: Everything we know so far and what we want to see

Apple iPhone 15 Pro with older iPhones in background

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Update: February 19, 2024 (1:17 PM ET): We have updated our iPhone 16 series rumor hub to include information on potential colorways for the iPhone 16 Pro.


Apple’s iPhone 15 series is still fairly new right now, but the leaks landscape is far more evolved than what it used to be till a few years back, and thanks to that, we already have a number of iPhone 16 rumors and leaks going around.

Apple made some significant changes to the 2023 iPhone lineup, including the addition of USB-C, the mute-switch-replacing Action Button, Titanium bodies instead of Stainless Steel, Dynamic Island on the non-Pro iPhones, a periscope camera for the Pro Max model, and more. If you’ve been following Apple long enough, you’d know that most of these new features from the iPhone 15 series would most certainly be coming to iPhone 16 models. What’s exclusive to the Pros today would likely trickle down to the non-Pro variants next year. It’s just how Apple does things. With all that and the leaks that we have at hand, here’s what you can expect from the iPhone 16 lineup.

Will there be an iPhone 16 series?

Apple iPhone 15 Pro review hero

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Wyze breach let 13,000 users to peek into the homes of other customers

The Wyze Cam V3 mounted outdoors

Credit: Wyze

  • Wyze accidentally let up to 13,000 users briefly see into the homes of other customers.
  • The breach is far greater than what was initially reported.
  • The company claims that “a third-party caching client library” is at fault.


Last year, Wyze got in some hot water after smart home owners reported they were briefly able to see video feeds from cameras they didn’t own. A week ago, the issue popped up again with co-founder David Crosby stating that at least dozens were affected. We’re now finding out that the number of people affected is far greater than what was initially reported.

Wyze customers were sent an email to explain a recent outage and a subsequent security issue. In the email, the company blames its web hosting provider — AWS — for the outage that prevented users from accessing live cameras or Events. It appears the security issue occurred as Wyze attempted to bring its services back online.

Wyze claims a “third-party caching client library” was the cause of the breach:

The incident was caused by a third-party caching client library that was recently integrated into our system. This client library received unprecedented load conditions caused by devices coming back online all at once. As a result of increased demand, it mixed up device ID and user ID mapping and connected some data to incorrect accounts.

The security issue in question allowed some users to see into the homes of other people. Reportedly, an estimated 13,000 users were allowed to see thumbnails of other homes. On top of that, Wyze says 1,504 people who tapped on those thumbnails were able to view video taken from those homes.

On it’s part, Wyze says it “immediately removed access to the Events tab and started an investigation.” The company adds that to prevent the problem from happening again, it has tacked on “a new layer of verification” for Event Videos. In addition, Wyze says it has “modified our system to bypass caching for checks on user-device relationships until we identify new client libraries that are thoroughly stress tested for extreme events like we experienced on Friday.”

Although the company has owned up to the mistake, that hasn’t stopped users from flocking to Reddit to voice their frustrations.

PSA: OnePlus 12R is not working on Verizon, but OnePlus is on it (Update: Fixed)

OnePlus 12R on phone box

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

  • Update: OnePlus has fixed the issue affecting some Verizon consumers. Consumers can now connect to Verizon’s network on their OnePlus 12R without any issues.
  • Previously, the OnePlus 12R did not work properly on Verizon’s network despite having the appropriate band support. The company assured a fix.


Update, February 19, 2024 (10:19 AM ET): OnePlus has fixed the issue affecting some Verizon consumers. Consumers should not have any issues connecting to Verizon’s network with the OnePlus 12R. The OnePlus 12R has also been added to Verizon’s BYOD program as a valid option.


Original article, February 15, 2024 (13:31 AM ET): Back in the day, OnePlus had partnerships with both Verizon and T-Mobile that saw its phones land on store shelves. The company hasn’t enjoyed that status for a few years now, but most OnePlus phones still work on those networks — you just can’t buy the phone directly from the carriers.

The OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R, for example, have full band support for all three major US carriers. However, the OnePlus 12 apparently has allowlist status with Verizon, while the 12R does not appear to enjoy that same status, as we’re learning today. This would mean that, for now, the OnePlus 12R will not work on the Verizon network, even though it has the proper band support.

We discovered this through a user on the XDA-Developer forums. This user bought some OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R phones for family members and was miffed to find the OnePlus 12s worked fine on Verizon, but the 12Rs didn’t. According to this user’s investigation, a Verizon “VP” confirmed to them that the 12 is allowlisted on the network, but the 12R isn’t. We reached out to OnePlus to find out the scoop, and sure enough, the company confirmed that the 12R is facing connection issues at Verizon. It didn’t confirm or deny the allowlist theory, but something is definitely broken.

Thankfully, OnePlus is currently working with Verizon to rectify this. Here’s a statement from OnePlus, per a company spokesperson:

The OnePlus 12R is able to work with all major carriers and on all major 5G networks in the US, including Verizon. We are currently investigating unexpected cases that users may be having with Verizon’s network, and are working with the carrier to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, the company didn’t give us any specifics on how long this might take. Theoretically, Verizon just needs to “switch on” support for the 12R, which isn’t too tricky. When this might happen, though, is anyone’s guess.

For now, if you are a Verizon subscriber and looking at the 12R, we’d advise you to wait or buy the OnePlus 12 ( ) instead, as that will work with Big Red straight out of the box.

Also, for the record, this connectivity issue shouldn’t affect using the 12R on T-Mobile or AT&T. This is a Verizon-specific problem.

Snapchat could let you send ‘Tiny Snaps’ while typing (APK teardown)

Snapchat logo stock photo 3

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

  • Snapchat is working on a Tiny Snaps feature, according to an Android Authority teardown.
  • It looks like the feature will let you record a small Snap while typing a message.


Snapchat remains a popular app for younger smartphone users, with the company recently announcing that it has 800 million monthly active users. The company is predictably working to add more features to the app, and we’ve now uncovered the existence of a so-called Tiny Snaps feature.

The beta version of Snapchat (version 12.75.0.34) contains several strings referencing a feature called Tiny Snaps. Check out the strings below.

<string name="plus_subscribe_card_tiny_snaps_subtitle">Send bite sized Snaps alongside your Chats.</string>
<string name="plus_subscribe_card_tiny_snaps_title">Tiny Snaps</string>
<string name="plus_tiny_snaps_alert_description">Tap on the camera icon after you begin typing to take a Tiny Snap.</string>

We’re not 100% sure what Tiny Snaps are, but the strings note that these are “bite-sized Snaps” that are sent while chatting to someone on the platform.

The third string also mentions tapping the camera icon after you start typing, suggesting that the Snap will be recorded while you type. It’s unclear if the Tiny Snap is sent when you send the message.

In other words, it seems like Tiny Snaps are meant to capture your reaction as you type a message. We’re guessing that the app might let you record via the rear camera too, but this is just speculation.

OnePlus begins teasing the OnePlus Watch 2, its Galaxy Watch 6 competitor

OnePlus Watch 2 Teaser

  • OnePlus has begun teasing a smartwatch product, which could launch at MWC 2024 at the end of this month.
  • This is widely expected to be the OnePlus Watch 2, and leaks suggest it could launch on February 26, 2024.
  • The OnePlus Watch 2 is expected to come with a Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chip and could run on Wear OS.


Android users have a lot of smartwatch options, but there’s always room for more competition. OnePlus has been rumored to launch a new smartwatch at MWC 2024, presumably called the OnePlus Watch 2, and the company has finally begun teasing the product.

OnePlus has posted a teaser image in the OnePlus community (h/t 1NormalUsername), asking users to wrongly guess what the product is. You can see the teaser image above, and it’s definitely not subtle in indicating what it is.

If you need some more help figuring it out, here is the same image, edited to bring out a few key details:

OnePlus Watch 2 Teaser EDIT

The teaser image flatly aligns with the leaked renders of the OnePlus Watch 2. The button housing, especially, is unmissable. You can check out the renders that leaked last year, showing off the protruding edge on the right side of the device.

OnePlus Watch 2 5K1

Credit: MySmartPrice

Obviously, the official teaser image has more polish and character than the leaked renders. But the leaked renders give us a good look at the device, which is expected to be showcased at MWC 2024, scheduled to be held at the end of this month.

Leaker Max Jambor alludes that the OnePlus Watch 2 could be launched on February 26, 2024.

2024 02 19 21 56 54

 

The original OnePlus Watch that launched in 2021 was a more simplistic fitness tracker with a large display rather than a proper smartwatch, as it lacked a smart OS with an app store. It ran on a proprietary OS that is comparable to RTOS. With the OnePlus Watch 2, OnePlus is expected to use Wear OS for a proper smartwatch experience that compares against the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 and the Pixel Watch 2, presuming it sells in the same markets. The watch is expected to come with the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chip, so it is already shaping up to be a decent competitor.

A new Flip-style foldable is coming this week

HUAWEI P50 Pocket white clamshell closed with clock on outer display

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

  • HUAWEI has announced that the Pocket 2 foldable phone will launch in China this week.
  • The phone is tipped to offer a Kirin 9000S chipset and a similar design as its predecessor.


HUAWEI isn’t able to offer proper Google integration, but its foldable phones still deliver great hardware. Now, it turns out that the company will launch a new foldable this week.

The company confirmed on its Weibo account that it will launch the HUAWEI Pocket 2 in China on February 22. You can view the teaser image below.

The HUAWEI Pocket S event poster.

Credit: Weibo/HUAWEI

HUAWEI hasn’t dished out any other details, but the accompanying image seems to hint at a circular camera housing and cover display in line with previous Pocket phones. Weibo leaker Fixed-Focus Digital also posted apparent renders last week, indeed showing a circular camera housing and a circular (but tiny) cover screen. But we’d take these images with a pinch of salt.

The aforementioned renders show a triple rear camera system too, while reliable Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station has claimed that the phone will arrive with a Kirin 9000S processor. Taken together, it looks like the HUAWEI Pocket 2 will be a flagship-tier offering rather than an upper mid-range device like the Pocket S.

Either way, the P50 Pocket was a rather capable device and was the first major Flip foldable with a triple rear camera system. But we hope HUAWEI swaps out the unorthodox super-spectrum camera in favor of a telephoto lens.

Android 15 brings a universal toggle for your keyboard vibration settings

Android 15 logo on smartphone with light strip in background stock photo (12)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

  • Android 15 Developer Preview 1 adds a new “Keyboard vibration” toggle to let users turn off keyboard vibration at a system level.
  • This setting overrides any enabled settings within individual keyboard apps.


The first build of Android 15 is here in the form of Developer Preview 1, and Pixel users can install it on their phones quite easily. This first build is intended for developers for the most part, but there are small changes here that add subtly to the overall Android usage experience. With Android 15, you now get a universal setting for toggling keyboard vibrations, coming in handy for users who like to use multiple keyboard apps.

As Mishaal Rahman points out, Android 15 Developer Preview 1 has a new “Keyboard vibration” toggle at Settings > Sound & vibration > Vibration & haptics. As the name implies, this toggle disables haptics in your keyboard app.

Android 15 Keyboard vibration setting

While the change is admittedly small and not something that most users will notice, it makes it very easy for anyone to toggle their keyboard vibration setting without needing to hunt for a toggle within the keyboard app’s settings.

If you use multiple keyboards, say one for English and another for your local language, you can rely on Android 15’s keyboard vibration setting to control both apps. Turning it off at the Android system level will save you a few clicks within your keyboard app, but you can still turn off the setting within the keyboard app too.

Samsung’s rugged tablet with a removable battery is now in the US

Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 official

Credit: Samsung

  • Samsung has launched the Galaxy Tab Active 5 tablet in the US.
  • The tablet starts at $548.99 and brings a variety of rugged and enthusiast-level features.


Samsung revealed the Galaxy Tab Active 5 last month, but there was no word on US availability at the time. Now, the company has launched the rugged tablet in the US.

Samsung launched the Galaxy Tab Active 5 on its website as an enterprise-focused offering, starting at $548.99 for the Wi-Fi model and $658.99 for the cellular variant. Either way, you’re getting a very capable rugged device.

The new tablet stands out thanks to features like a removable 5,050mAh battery, the ability to run the device without the battery via passthrough charging, and an IP68 rating with MIL-STD-810H certification. Samsung also offers a rugged case in the box.

The Galaxy Tab Active 5 also brings a few enthusiast features like a 3.5mm port, microSD expansion, and a remappable hardware button.

As for the more conventional specs, you’re getting a mid-tier Exynos 1380 chipset, an 8-inch 120Hz TFT screen (Gorilla Glass 5), 6GB of RAM, 128GB of internal storage, and Dex support. A 13MP camera is available on the back while a 5MP camera handles selfies.

Otherwise, the Galaxy Tab Active 5 comes with a two-year warranty owing to its enterprise status. It also comes with three years of “product life-cycle support,” four major OS updates, and five years of security updates.

WhatsApp could give some more love to its Stories feature

WhatsApp logo on smartphone next to everyday accessories Stock photo 1

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

  • WhatsApp could be working on improving its Stories landing page with larger previews.
  • The Updates tab could house a horizontally scrolling list of Stories, providing a preview of the first unseen story from a user.
  • This change could arrive in a future version of WhatsApp.


WhatsApp continues to be the premier instant messenger choice for many users worldwide. While it works very well as an IM app, the service has ambitions that go beyond just pure texting needs. Most IM apps these days want to build a community on their platform, and they adopt features like stories and channels to get texters more engaged and spend more time on the app. WhatsApp could be revisiting how it presents its Stories feature to users, making it easier for them to learn more from just a glance.

As per a report from WABetaInfo, WhatsApp could be looking at refreshing the status update page. A future update could present a redesigned interface for the status update tray. While the tray would sit at the top of the updates tab, it could get large preview windows that make it easier to skim through the first story from each person without clicking open any of them.

WhatsApp Stories tray

Credit: WABetaInfo

On Android, WhatsApp currently has a top bar with dedicated tabs for Communities, Chats, Updates, and Calls. Within the Updates tab, Android users who do not follow Channels currently have a vertically scrolling list for all stories, with more screen space given to names than to the story preview. If you follow Channels, you get an Instagram-esque circle indicator for stories in a horizontal scrolling list but no real previews.

The redesign would bring the tabs to the bottom and give stories a horizontally scrolling list with large previews, where the focus is more on the content than on the person’s name. It would be a better experience than what is presented right now.

This new preview window for stories is not live yet and could likely appear in a future version of the app. Do you like these new larger previews? Let us know in the comments below!

Xiaomi 14 Ultra camera specs announced: Beating the Galaxy S24 Ultra?

Xiaomi 13 Ultra White 4 Logo

Credit: Aamir Siddiqui / Android Authority

  • Xiaomi has posted renders of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra online.
  • The company also revealed details regarding the phone’s telephoto cameras.
  • The phone will launch globally on February 25 and in China on February 22.


Xiaomi has teased the arrival of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra in recent weeks, and we’re expecting the phone to debut globally at its MWC 2024 event. Now, the company has dished out our first official look at the phone while also confirming a few more details.

Company co-founder and CEO Lei Jun posted renders of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra on social media, and it largely lines up with previously leaked images. Check the renders out below.

The images show a phone available in black or white/silver color options. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra also appears to have a pleather back instead of a glass rear cover. Other design-related features include a metallic frame and an Oreo-style camera housing containing four cameras (including a periscope camera).

Xiaomi 14 Ultra front design weibo

Credit: Weibo/Xiaomi

The phone was rumored to pack a flat screen instead of a curved display, but Xiaomi says on Weibo that it packs a “slightly” curved screen. However, an accompanying image (seen above) suggests that this seems more like a 2.5D screen than anything else.

Xiaomi 14 Ultra camera specs revealed

Xiaomi also shed more light on the camera system via its Weibo account. Starting with the main camera, you can expect a 50MP LYT-900 main camera (one-inch). The company says this packs a variable aperture able to open as wide as f/1.63.

Additionally, the company revealed that the phone will pack a 3.2x 50MP camera and a 5x 50MP periscope camera. These cameras both use an IMX858 sensor and have wide apertures for telephoto cameras, namely f/1.8 and f/2.6 apertures, respectively.

The periscope camera’s aperture, in particular, is an improvement over the f/3.0 aperture seen in last year’s Ultra phone. It’s also wider than the S24 Ultra‘s 5x camera (f/3.4). So we’re expecting improved low-light image quality at 5x compared to the Samsung phone.

Xiaomi confirmed that the Xiaomi 14 Ultra will indeed debut globally on February 25 in Barcelona. However, the company also revealed on Weibo that the Chinese launch will take place on February 22. Either way, the wait is almost over for Xiaomi fans and people looking for a great camera phone.

Google Messages could soon get new ‘camera effects’

Google Messages SMS stock photo 10

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

  • Strings and flags within Google Messages highlight upcoming features, such as camera effects for the internal Camera activity within the app.
  • Flags also indicate that Google could be experimenting with removing the top contacts during search and deprioritizing drafts from the main chat screen.


Google Messages finds its way as the default texting app on plenty of flagship Android smartphones, thanks to Google’s GMS requirements. It is a good app, too, so most users don’t mind using it for daily communication. Regular Google Messages can look forward to more exciting features, such as potential camera effects and a cleaner overall look.

TheSpAndroid spotted several flags within Google Messages that point to upcoming features. For one, Google Messages has its own camera activity nestled within itself, separate from the camera app on your phone.

Google Messages Camera effects

Credit: TheSpAndroid

This camera could soon get some effects features. There isn’t more information on what the effects could be, but Google will most likely offer you the choice to toggle the effects.

Google Messages has a top contacts feature that surfaces some recently and frequently contacted people when you click on the search icon within the app. This feature may disappear in the future, though the flag sounds more like something used for internal debugging purposes.

Similarly, a new flag removes the draft message preview from the main screen. This gives a cleaner look to the app’s main screen but hides away a genuinely helpful feature. Drafts at the top of the list are a reminder to action them, and letting them dissolve back into the chat list will likely lead to many more messages that are only mentally sent but not actually sent. We presume this could also be a flag used for internal debugging purposes.

We will have to wait and see which of these changes Google considers permanent for Google Messages. Camera effects would be nice to have, depending on how they pan out to be.

15 best and biggest MMORPGs for Android

Od: Joe Hindy

MMORPGs are funny things. They have the ability to put you in a vast world filled with thousands of other people, and you can play them almost infinitely without reaching the end. Their following is huge and vastly loyal. The experiences vary quite a bit between Android MMORPGs. Additionally, it can take some time before good MMORPGs really show their true colors. Thus, it also makes staying up on the latest good ones somewhat difficult. In any case, here are the best MMORPGs for Android! Please note that all of these use a free-to-play model for customizations, weapons, etc. There are only a few decent games with a subscription model, such as New School RuneScape.

We’d also like to officially mention School of Chaos Online (Google Play link). It’s an MMORPG that is very much not like most other MMORPGs and even lets you do stuff like make your own quests.

The best and biggest MMORPGs for Android


AdventureQuest 3D

Price: Free to play

AdventureQuest 3D is a rapidly growing MMORPG. It features a lot of the same stuff that most MMORPGs have. You’ll be able to quest a whole bunch, raid dungeons, create a character, and more. Where AdventureQuest 3D really shines is its cross-platform support. You can play on mobile or PC in the same world with the same players. There is also support for multi-classing your characters, chatting, other social engagement, and more. There are bugs present like most. However, they don’t seem to be as egregious as other games.


Arcane Legends

Price: Free to play

Arcane Legends has been around for a long time. Its longevity has made it one of the most successful MMORPGs out there. The game is pretty standard at its core. You’ll have three classes to choose from, each with unique skills and abilities. There are co-op play and PvP modes, so you can play and engage with other players. It also includes various PvP formats to keep things interesting. The developers have done a good job of updating the game to keep content fresh. There are tons of things to do. It can get a little repetitive, though.


Aurcus Online

Price: Free to play
Aurcus Online is one of the best MMORPGs for android

Aurcus Online has flown under the radar for most of its time in the Play Store. It strikes the usual chords as you can create your character, go questing, raid bosses with your friends, and even engage in PvP combat. Where this game really shines is the combat controls. You’ll use simple, one-tap attacks and skill releases culminating in fun, acrobatic attacks. The animations add a bit more eye candy to the mix. Most of the complaints around this one come from balance issues and pay-to-win mechanics in PvP. The rest of it seems to be pretty good.


Black Desert Mobile

Price: Free to play

Black Desert Mobile is one of the newer Android MMORPGs. It boasts the usual MMORPG features, including a large open world, character customization, many quests and missions to play, online social elements, and more. Players can choose five different classes and a minor builder element with your camp. Of course, you also get the usual stuff like pets and mounts. This game seems to tick all of the boxes while having relatively few issues. Spending hundreds, if not thousands, of hours in the game is absolutely possible. It’s free to play like most mobile RPGs, but at least you can use Google Play Points to earn free stuff. You can also earn Google Play Points if you spend money on this game if that matters to you.


Diablo Immortal

Price: Free to play

Diablo Immortal is a bit different in the MMORPG space. There isn’t as much multiplayer as some other MMOs, but you get a massive shared open world with other players. You take on a story from the Diablo world, complete with many characters from the franchise. You choose a character, play through missions and quests, and try to get stronger. The core gameplay is actually not half bad. It relies heavily on kiting rather than overpowering, but you can do both if you want to. The game is smooth, the graphics are decent, and there is plenty to do.

The only real issue with Diablo Immortal is the in-app purchases. Due to luck, it can cost tens of thousands of dollars to max out your character. However, if you take the free-to-play method and grind it out, you can avoid almost all of that with time and a little luck. If you are the type to buy your way to the top, this game isn’t for you. If you want a moderately decent MMORPG, this works.


Dragon Raja

Price: Free to play

Dragon Raja is one of the most popular MMORPGs on mobile for good reason. It’s enjoyable, looks good, and has some of the best character customizations in any mobile MMO. In terms of gameplay, it’s a solid game. There are a ton of quests to do, a story to follow, strong social elements, and above-average graphics. Unlike most, this one blends fantasy elements with real-world locations, so it has a modern twist. It has a bit of a slow start but gets going once you’re properly introduced into the game world. It has in-app purchases, but they seem to be mostly cosmetics, as far as we can tell. It’s good as long as the developer updates the game properly.


Grow Stone Online

Price: Free to play

Grow Stone Online is a retro-style MMORPG. We don’t mean it acts like an old MMORPG. The graphics are 2D pixel art. It has most of the features of an MMORPG. That includes a vast world to explore, people to play with, many bad guys to kill, and much loot to collect. You can join clans and all of that jazz as well. It worked well in our testing. We didn’t disconnect, and the controls are easy enough to learn. It’s a freemium game, but you kind of expect that in this genre. It’s good, for sure.


Lineage 2: Revolution

Price: Free to play

Lineage 2: Revolution is one of the newer MMORPGs on mobile. It features some decent graphics, tons of content, and the usual array of mobile MMORPG stuff. It does have some unique stuff, though. That includes a 50-vs-50 Fortress Siege mode that is pretty epic when it works. You can do the usual stuff like questing, joining guilds and clans, and more. It’s a freemium game. Thus, it has many of the same issues as all of these others. However, it’s not too bad for a few dozen hours of fun if you don’t mind a few bugs. You can also earn rewards with Google Play Points for this title.


Old School RuneScape

Price: Free / $7.49 per month / $99.99 per year

Old School RuneScape is, well, OSRS for mobile devices. This is one of the most interesting MMORPGs on Android. For starters, you can play it for free without any free-to-play elements. You can get even more content if you subscribe. Both of these are strikingly different from the freemium model that most MMORPGs use. The game also boasts hundreds of quests, a rich in-game economy, and plenty of other things to do. The subscription players also get a map with a ton of extra stuff.

It works cross-platform, and the developers do an above-average job listening to players. The graphics are a little old school, but everything else about the game is good. This may be the best MMORPG on mobile right now, and a full mobile client is also available (Google Play) if you want better graphics with the gameplay. You can go with the old-school version or the full version. Both are pretty great.


Perfect World Mobile

Price: Free to play

Perfect World Mobile doesn’t have the highest download numbers, but it’s a reasonably decent MMORPG. The game boasts above-average graphics for the genre, tons of things to do, and a large game world. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, so you have most of the MMORPG stuff like mounts, emotes, the ability to play with others, and mostly standard combat mechanics. It’s been around for 13 years on PC, and while it’s definitely not as expansive as the PC version, it’s still pretty fun. Just watch out for the in-app purchases because they can get absurdly pricey.


Rucoy Online

Price: Free to play

Rucoy Online is another one of those unique Android MMORPGs. You play as a 2D sprite. The game also takes place on a 2D map. It features three character classes that you can switch between at will. You’ll also get an open world to explore, many quests, and more. The game offers various multiplayer options, including PvP and co-op modes. It’s a lighter, slightly refreshing take on the MMORPG genre. However, on the other hand, this game isn’t as deep as other MMORPGs.


Talion

Price: Free to play

Talion is another one of the newer Android MMORPGs. It has many of the same stuff as other MMORPGs, including the large open world, many quests, massive cooperative and competitive battles, and online PvP. We enjoyed that this game has FPS-style PvP modes such as Occupy, where you capture a point and fire catapults at each other. Character customization is above average, and the stories and quests aren’t amazing, but they aren’t terrible, either. This is an auto-play MMORPG, so players who dislike that should skip it. Additionally, the micro-transaction strategy is very aggressive as of the time of this writing. You can still progress without them, but it takes longer.


Toram Online

Price: Free to play

Toram Online is a favorite of our readership. There isn’t a class system. Everyone is given skill trees that they can fill out as they see fit. You also have the ability to customize weapons and change their abilities. It adds up to being one of the more customizable MMORPGs that we’ve seen. The graphics and gameplay give it a Final Fantasy (jRPG) feeling. There is also a campaign mode with an option to play co-op. You won’t find an MMORPG like this very often. It does have the occasional bug and connection issue, though. Just something to be aware of.


Warspear Online

Price: Free to play

Warspear Online is one of those MMORPGs that have been around for a long time. As such, it’s had a lot of opportunities to expand its universe. It currently comes with over 1500 quests, 150 achievements, PvP with up to five vs five combat, eight environments, and more. The character creation is also fairly expansive. You can choose between four classes, two alliances, and 12 character classes. You can even take up crafting to make your own gear. The in-app purchase strategy is also fairly aggressive in this title.


MU ORIGIN 3: Diviner

Price: Free to play

mu origin

Although MU Origin 3 may not break new ground in the MMO genre, its visuals are undeniably stunning. With many features, it might initially overwhelm players, but its blend of automated and manual gameplay prevents it from becoming excessively repetitive or tedious. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to showcase the capabilities of their top-tier Android devices.

What truly distinguishes MU Origin 3 is its combat system. Unlike traditional point-and-click mechanics seen in games like Old School RuneScape, MU Origin 3 promotes dynamic and fast-paced gameplay. While MMO combat often varies between calming and monotonous, MU Origin 3 maintains an engaging tempo. This is worth trying if you’re seeking a contemporary MMO experience that still honors classic formulas.


If we missed any of the best Android MMORPGs, tell us about them in the comments. You can also click here to see our most recently updated app lists.

What is Jasper AI? Features, plans, pricing and more

jasper ai header image 2

Credit: Jasper AI

The world of generative AI has moved quickly over the past year, but most of the hype has centered around chatbots and AI image generators. And while ChatGPT and Gemini serve creatives, they don’t do much in the way of improving team coordination or productivity. Enter Jasper, an AI platform that makes generative AI simpler to use for creative professionals in the marketing industry.

Jasper hopes to streamline the creation and management of marketing campaigns, emails, blog posts, and even social media accounts. It may seem similar to existing AI tools like ChatGPT on the surface, but Jasper does offer a handful of features you won’t find elsewhere.

What is Jasper AI and how does it work?

jasper generate headline from text

Credit: Jasper AI

Jasper is an AI software suite that assists with common productivity tasks such as creating marketing content and summarizing meeting notes. If you’ve ever used a chatbot like ChatGPT, you already know what to expect from the conversational side of Jasper. You can ask questions, generate captions for social media posts, or summarize long pieces of text.

However, Jasper also offers much more than a simple chat interface. It can also host company-wide resources like style guides and offer a single dashboard from where you can create various marketing assets. Anyone in the company can access these tools to create content that fits within the brand’s voice.

Jasper makes it easier for large marketing teams to generate content for various platforms.

For example, you can specify a communication tone relevant to your brand and specific terms like product names and company-specific terms. Jasper will then use this information to create content that’s the perfect mix of humorous, informative, and professional. On higher-end plans, Jasper can also monitor the performance of your blog or social media accounts and offer suggestions on improving future content.

Jasper can generate both text and images, allowing you to create social media posts without using two different services. It also offers a host of templates across multiple categories, including blog posts, listicles, video scripts, Twitter threads, Google Ads headlines, and entire marketing campaigns. Selecting any one of these options will yield additional customization options too. For example, you can change the length or specify the text’s tone with a couple of clicks.

Under the hood, Jasper uses a proprietary AI large language model. That said, the company also relies on the GPT family of language models, including GPT-4.

Who is Jasper AI for?

jasper instant content generation

Credit: Jasper AI

Jasper AI caters to businesses and creative professionals, particularly in the marketing, media, and similar industries. It’s similar to AI productivity suites like Microsoft 365 Copilot and Gemini for Workspace in that it tries to automate the time-consuming process of content creation, reviewing, and editing. Individual users won’t get as much value out of the platform, but Jasper does try to cater to them as well.

At its core then, Jasper is a writing assistant that promises to deliver content that aligns with a company’s brand and image. This is an area where regular chatbots like ChatGPT struggle since they don’t have much of a memory between sessions. And even if you use advanced features like OpenAI’s custom GPTs, they won’t integrate as well as Jasper with your company’s workflow.

Jasper helps create content that fits in line with your brand's identity and image, without typing lengthy prompts every time.

For example, you can upload a single marketing brief and have Jasper generate multiple forms of content based on it. With most other AI platforms, you’d have to manually request each asset and even provide instructions for the content to align with your brand’s identity. Jasper automates this whole process.

Even if you don’t need full automation, Jasper offers integrations for Google Docs, Chrome, Microsoft Word, and other productivity apps. This will allow you to access Jasper’s chatbot in a sidebar, where you can ask it to revise an existing document or generate additional paragraphs as you write.

Jasper AI vs ChatGPT: How do they compare?

ChatGPT stock photo 73

Credit: Calvin Wankhede / Android Authority

While Jasper and ChatGPT are both examples of generative AI, they aren’t competing services. This is because Jasper’s main value comes from its dashboard which allows you to generate text, monitor content performance, and more. Meanwhile, ChatGPT serves as a chatbot that can answer factual questions and generate content.

With ChatGPT, every new chat is like a blank canvas — it doesn’t offer much in the way of copywriting features or templates. It also cannot be taught much about the company’s brand or preferred writing style. This makes it an excellent general-purpose AI tool but you’ll need to master the art of prompt engineering to extract the best results from it.

Jasper offers a dashboard with templates and customization options, while ChatGPT offers a simpler text-based interface.

Jasper tries to serve creative professionals more directly, offering a dashboard with sliders and dropdown menus that allow you to customize your content without instructing the AI directly. So all in all, neither ChatGPT nor Jasper is better because they cater to different needs and don’t always overlap in terms of their features. For example, ChatGPT is a much more valuable tool for programmers since Jasper doesn’t offer any coding-specific tools.

Jasper AI plans and pricing

jasper pricing subscription tiers
Credit: Jasper AI

Since Jasper caters mainly to businesses and professionals, it doesn’t offer a free tier.
Jasper offers three pricing tiers, namely Creator, Pro, and Business. The price goes up between tiers but you also get more features, especially in the Business tier that adds collaborative workflows and team management tools.

CreatorProBusiness
Monthly price$39 per user$59 per userPer-case basis
Intended userIndividualsSmall businessesLarge companies, enterprises
RestrictionsSingle user only, no art generationUp to five users, three brand voices, 10 knowledge assetsNone, unlimited use

Jasper AI trial: Here’s how to use it for free!

Many AI tools can be used for free, so you might be disappointed to hear that you’ll have to pay a monthly fee for Jasper. However, this isn’t actually out of the ordinary; rival productivity services like Microsoft 365 Copilot and Gemini for Workspace will cost you monthly as well.

Luckily, Jasper offers a one-month trial for its Creator and Pro plans that allows you to use all of the platform’s AI features for free. You’ll need a credit card to sign up but that’s about the only downside.


FAQs

Can Jasper AI write a book?

Yes, Jasper has a short story writing tool but you can also ask the AI to draft an entire book in parts.

Does Jasper AI use GPT 3?

Jasper AI uses an in-house language model that also relies on GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 to some degree.

Does Jasper AI have an app?

Jasper AI doesn’t offer a smartphone app as it’s a web-based tool but it does have a Chrome extension and integrations for Google Docs and Word.

Can Google detect Jasper AI content?

It’s unclear if Google has deployed AI detection tools yet, but it could change in the future.

Can Turnitin detect Jasper AI?

Yes, Turnitin can most likely detect Jasper AI because it uses the GPT-4 language model to some degree.

Sony Xperia 5 VI wishlist: All the features I want to see

The Sony Xperia 5 V was one of the most powerful compact phones released in 2023 and yet for many of us, it wasn’t even an option, as Sony chose to only launch the Sony Xperia 1 V in the United States. While there’s still a possibility that the Xperia 5 V might come to the US later, it might be too late, given the arrival of powerful new flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S24 series.

It’s unclear if the US will ever see Sony’s compact flagship again, but there are a few things I’d like to see improved. With that in mind, here’s my wishlist for what I’d like to see in the Sony Xperia 5 VI in 2024.

Sony needs to finally update its design language

Sony Xperia 5 V back standing

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

One aspect of Sony’s design philosophy that stands out is its consistency. Sony seldom makes changes, and when it does, it tends to adhere to the new style for many years. On the upside, this consistency helps distinguish the Sony Xperia series from its rivals. However, this approach can also render its design somewhat stale and uninteresting.

While Sony isn’t the only company to maintain a consistent design language, others like Apple, Samsung, and Google typically incorporate a few minor changes every few years to keep things fresh. Although the Sony Xperia 5 and the Xperia 5 V are obviously different, their aesthetic similarities suggest that there hasn’t been much evolution over a five-year period.

Sony Xperia 5 V display in had

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Sony doesn’t necessarily need to abandon its current metallic design to add excitement to the Xperia 5 VI. A simple yet effective change could be in the color options. Brands like Samsung and Apple use unique colorways for each generation to make their phones stand out, whereas Sony often limits its palette to primarily black and white, with an occasional additional color. It would be refreshing to see the return of Sony’s classic purple, alongside the current green, and perhaps introduce a new, unique color to complement the standard white and black.

Another aspect for Sony to consider is the Xperia 5 V’s relatively thick bezels, which are quite noticeable for a modern smartphone. Reducing these bezels could be a key design improvement, making the phone appear more modern and sleek. Additionally, experimenting with a new aspect ratio could also inject some fresh energy into the design.

Continue improving the camera experience, and bring back the telephoto lens

Sony Xperia 5 V camera app

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

The Sony Xperia 5 V delivers a competent camera experience, though it may not entirely match the prowess of competitors like the Galaxy S24, iPhone 15, or Pixel 8 series. There’s room for improvement in features such as Night mode, Portrait, Cinematic Blur, and AI-assisted capabilities. Sony could also benefit from leveraging its Alpha brand more effectively, distinguishing its camera technology from others.

Encouragingly, there’s a rumor from a reliable Japanese website suggesting that the upcoming Sony Xperia 1 VI and 5 VI might introduce a “world first” feature allowing digital signatures on images, which would help verify if they have been altered. While innovations like this are promising, I just really want to see the return of the Xperia 5’s long-range camera capabilities, which have gradually worsened since the Xperia 5 III and were notably absent in the last iteration.

I’ve always valued how Sony’s compact phones maintain parity with their larger counterparts with minimal compromises. This approach is quite distinct from Apple and Samsung, which offer multiple flagships differing in size and core features. Unfortunately, the disparity between the Xperia V models seems to have widened recently, a trend I hope Sony will address. Better realigning these models could reinforce Sony’s unique position in the smartphone market.

Faster charging options

Sony Xperia 5 V chassis

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

The Sony Xperia 5 V boasts an impressive 5,500mAh battery, which is notably larger than what’s typically found in smartphones of its size. As expected, this results in exceptional battery life, with the device comfortably lasting two days on a single charge. The substantial battery size is a commendable feature from Sony, especially in a compact phone.

However, the current 24W charging capability feels limited, particularly for a battery of this magnitude. This slower charging speed becomes more noticeable when coupled with the Xperia 5 V’s heat issues, which lead to throttled charging rates after about 15 minutes of use.

Addressing the overheating could likely be achieved with an updated SoC and other optimizations. Alongside these improvements, it’s time for Sony to consider enhancing the charging speed, possibly to 45W, similar to what is offered in the Galaxy S24 Ultra. While there are faster-charging smartphones available, many are not sold in the US, often due to regulatory constraints. Balancing battery capacity with efficient and speedy charging is crucial for the next iteration of the Xperia series.

Better update policy

Sony Xperia 5 V logo box

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Samsung and Google have set a new standard in the smartphone industry by offering seven years of updates for their latest flagship models. Even brands like Motorola and OnePlus are enhancing their update commitments. In contrast, Sony persists with its policy of providing only two years of upgrades and patches for its devices. This approach, while possibly driven by a desire to minimize resource allocation to a niche brand, is increasingly at odds with industry norms.

A two-year update cycle not only appears inadequate but is also becoming somewhat of an embarrassment, especially when compared to the strides made by competitors. For Sony to maintain, let alone enhance, its credibility in the smartphone market, extending its support to at least four years of OS and security updates is essential. Such a change would not only meet evolving customer expectations but also align Sony with the broader trend of long-term device support, which is becoming a significant factor in consumers’ purchasing decisions.

It needs to be released in the US, please

Sony Xperia 5 V vs Xperia 1 V cameras

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

The Sony Xperia 5 V didn’t launch in the US, with the company stating it wanted to focus attention on the Xperia 1 V instead. It’s unclear what that means for the Xperia 5 series in the future. Sony’s approach suggests that the company may view the U.S. as a secondary market, preferring to concentrate its efforts on selling just one flagship model. Alternatively, Sony might be reevaluating the need for annual releases of its compact phone in the States, possibly considering a strategy akin to Apple’s handling of its budget iPhone SE series, which sees new models every two to four years.

While the Xperia 5 V and the iPhone SE are quite different in their offerings, the underlying principle of less frequent updates could be a viable approach for Sony. The hope is that the Xperia 5 V, or its successors, will eventually make their way back to the US market. The scarcity of compact smartphones makes the absence of the Xperia 5 series all the more felt.


Will there be a Sony Xperia 5 VI?

Sony Xperia 5 V standing by plant 2

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Sony has been pretty consistent over the years with releasing its flagships, save for the big change it made in 2023 by opting not to release the Sony Xperia 5 V to American audiences. While we don’t know for sure if we’ll see the Sony Xperia 5 VI release in the United States, we are very confident the phone will exist in most major markets, which is only further corroborated by the recently leaked camera feature we mentioned in the wishlist above.

  • Xperia 5 V — September 1, 2023
  • Xperia 5 IV — September 1, 2022
  • Xperia 5 III — October 8, 2021

As for when it might launch? While it’s too early to know anything official about the Sony Xperia 5 VI release date, looking at the Xperia 5 series history it seems a pretty safe bet that we’ll see it in September or October of 2024.

Should you wait for the Sony Xperia V VI?

Apple iPhone 14 vs Sony Xperia 5 IV in hand

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

The Sony Xperia 5 VI is still nearly a year away, so there’s no reason to wait off. If you want a compact Xperia in the US, your best bet would be to check out the Xperia 5 IV ( ) or look into import options for the Sony Xperia 5 V ( ). Not concerned about the display size? The Sony Xperia 1 V ( ) is available in the US now.

If you don’t mind venturing outside of Sony, there are still a few great small Android phones like the Zenfone 10 ( ), the Galaxy S24 ( ), or the Pixel 8 ( ).

Verizon and other US carriers want you to ditch your grandfathered plan — should you?

Verizon logo on phone stock photo

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

We’ve all been there: You found a phone plan that you’re reasonably happy with, and then suddenly your carrier changes it all up with new offerings. The good news is that carriers typically don’t force consumers to change phone plans every time they update their options. There are a few reasons for this. The most obvious reason is customer retention. A carrier would rather you stay with an older plan than jump ship entirely. There are also legal reasons why your older plan may be protected.

Unfortunately, in the current economy, carriers are doing whatever they can to encourage users to move to another 5G plan. In this guide, we explain what a grandfathered phone plan is and how each carrier currently handles its legacy plans. Beyond this, we’ll also take a look at which carrier does the best job here and if there are any worthwhile alternatives to explore.

What is a grandfathered cell phone plan?

The concept of grandfathering traces its roots back to post-Civil War America, where many lawmakers enacted voting restrictions on former Confederates. However, exceptions were made for those whose grandfathers had full voting rights before the war. Upon further investigation, I found that while there are legal arguments for the concept of grandfathering in the United States, it’s not necessarily endorsed by the FTC or any other government body.

There are provisions in place to prevent a company from abruptly altering any agreed-upon promises made to a consumer. This is precisely why carriers require you to sign their terms of agreement. This legal document not only details what the plan offers but typically includes a clause stating that the carrier can modify terms on legacy plans no longer offered by the company. The exact wording, of course, may vary.

The bottom line is carriers aren’t legally obligated to keep legacy plans the same as they were when you signed up, as long as the terms and conditions clearly state the carrier has the right to make changes over time. That said, making frequent changes to plans could potentially anger consumers and might even lead to class-action lawsuits for bad business practices.

Ultimately, grandfathered plans allow carriers to provide you with time to adjust, but you shouldn’t assume that you will always have access to these legacy plans without modifications, such as price increases or changes to the network, including the phasing out of older technologies like 3G. This is precisely what we’re observing from carriers now, as they increase prices or attempt to move consumers to newer plans without their express consent. Let’s take a closer look at how each carrier is currently managing its legacy unlimited phone plans.

Verizon

Verizon logo on smartphone with a colored background Stock photo 3

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Verizon won’t force you to change your grandfathered phone plan anytime soon, but it clearly wants to encourage you to switch voluntarily by driving up the prices. Historically, Verizon has raised grandfathered pricing before, though it is usually a rare move. Not so much anymore. In 2023 alone, Verizon increased the pricing of legacy plans twice: first, by adding a $2 per month ‘Plan Rate Adjustment’ fee to older plans in June, and then again with a $3 to $5 increase, depending on the plan, in August.

Unsurprisingly, legacy Verizon subscribers did not take well to the price hikes. To make matters worse, Verizon revealed in early 2024 that it wasn’t done raising prices yet. Starting March 1, 2024, customers on select older unlimited mobile plans will see an increase of $4 per line.

Are Verizon legacy plans still worth it over the current tier?

Are these grandfathered plans still worth keeping in 2024? It depends on the specific legacy plan in question.

Currently, when signing up for a new Verizon plan, you can choose from three different MyPlan options, with prices ranging from $65 to $90 per line. Discounts are available for multi-user accounts. These plans offer similar access to LTE and 5G networks as the legacy More plans, but they include virtually no perks. However, you have the option to purchase perks, often bundled, for $10 each. The bundles include Disney Plus, Hulu, ESPN+, Netflix/Max, an Apple One perk, and many more. You can learn more about the perks and plans in our Verizon plans guide.

Considering the vast array of legacy plans, and given that most Verizon legacy subscribers are on an older More plan, let’s compare the most basic and most expensive MyPlan options to their similar legacy counterparts. Please note that the pricing for the legacy plans reflects the upcoming March increase:

Start Unlimited (After March 2024)myPlan Unlimited WelcomemyPlan Unlimited UltimateGet More Unlimited
Price per line$79 for one line
$69 for two lines
$54 for three lines
$44 for four lines
$39 for five lines
$65 for one line
$55 for two lines
$40 for three lines
$30 for four lines
$90 for one line
$80 for two lines
$65 for three lines
$55 for four lines
$111 for one line
$91 for two lines
$76 for three lines
$66 for four lines
$61 for five lines
DataUnlimited 4G LTE
5G Nationwide
Unlimited 4G LTE
5G Nationwide/UWB
Unlimited 4G LTE
5G Nationwide
5G wideband
60GB total premium data
Unlimited 4G LTE with 75GB premium data
Truly unlimited 5G
HotspotUnlimitedNone60GB 5G/LTE30GB 4G LTE hotspot
Unlimited 5G UWB
International benefitsTalk and text in Canada, Texting in over 200 countriesTalk and text in Canada, Texting in over 200 countriesTalk & Text in Mexico and Canada
Texting in over 200 countries
10GB high-speed international data
Talk & Text in Mexico and Canada
Texting in over 200 countries
Apple Music
PerksNone includedNone included, can add for $10 eachNone included, can add for $10 eachDisney/Hulu bundle
Google Play Pass
Apple Music
Travel Pass (1 per month)
600GB Verizon Cloud data

The Start Unlimited plan had few perks, making its increased price of $79 per line difficult to justify, especially when the Unlimited Welcome plan is only $65 per line. However, opting for the newer plan would mean losing out on hotspot access, though you can add 100GB for just $10. Therefore, if you’re on an entry-level plan, the price hike might mean you’d be better off switching to something newer. The situation is quite different for Verizon’s higher-end plans.

MyPlan Unlimited Welcome starts at $90 per line, compared to $111 for the Get More Unlimited plan, but the latter includes numerous extras, such as the Hulu/Disney Bundle, Google Play Pass, Apple Music, one Travel Pass each month, and 600GB of Verizon Cloud data. The My Plan option doesn’t include any perks by default, but you can pile up the equivalent perks for an additional $50 a month, increasing the price to between $140 and $102 per line. Despite these increases, the older legacy plan remains considerably cheaper overall and is the better option, even though the newer plan may offer better promotional deals when it’s time to upgrade your device.

AT&T

ATT logo stock image 2

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Just like Verizon, AT&T won’t force you to change your plan but it isn’t above raising the price. AT&T increased its legacy plans back in August of 2023. The exact increase varied significantly depending on the legacy plan. Despite a lot of digging around, it was hard to get exact numbers for every legacy plan but it looks like most of them increased by at least $5-10 in 2023.

Specifically, hotspot/laptop users on the Unlimited Plus, Choice, and Choice II plans were targeted with a $10 per month increase. The original Unlimited Elite plan also experienced an increase of $2.50 per month per line. Beyond these, many other plans saw increases, although it’s more difficult to determine the exact amounts.

Unfortunately, AT&T isn’t stopping there with its price hikes. It recently announced plans to raise the cost of grandfathered phone plans by as much as $12 for family plans and $6 for single-line users. This latest increase will apply to all legacy plans, including those that already saw increases last year.

Are AT&T legacy plans still worth it over the current tier?

For those with a mobile hotspot or laptop connected to an older Unlimited Choice plan, this plan remains hard to beat even with increases of $10 or more per month. However, justifying it might become more challenging with the next round of price increases. Still, you benefit from truly unlimited data on the go, which is perfect for full-time RVers and those living in rural areas reliant on 4G for internet access. It’s important to note, though, that the original Choice plan was limited to 3Mbps speeds, making it a significantly better deal primarily for Choice II subscribers.

As for the rest of AT&T’s legacy plans, their value will depend on your specific needs and plan details. Since 2018, AT&T has offered three main plans, although their structure, pricing, and naming conventions have evolved. Currently, the cost ranges from $66 to $86 per line, with prices decreasing for family plans. Frankly, the original Starter plan offered a no-frills experience, and the new Starter SL isn’t much different—just a few dollars more expensive with a few minor changes. For most, there’s nothing particularly special about the older Starter plan, so it might not be worth keeping as price increases will lead to a similar overall experience.

For Elite users, the situation differs. Let’s take a closer look:

AT&T Unlimited Premium PLAT&T Unlimited Elite
Price per line$85.99 for one line
$75.99 for two lines
$60.99 for three lines
$50.99 for four lines
$45.99 for five lines
$93.50 for one line
$83.50 for two lines
$66.50 for three lines
$55.50 for four lines
DataUnlimited LTE and 5GUnlimited LTE and 5G
Hotspot60GB hotspot access40GB hotspot access
International benefitsUnlimited talk, text, and high-speed data in 20 Latin American countriesUnlimited talk, text, and high-speed data in 20 Latin American countries
PerksN/AHBO Max

As you can see in the chart, although Premium is technically cheaper even with price increases, the difference is not that substantial. The two plans are quite similar, but a significant distinction is that Premium offers much more hotspot data and eliminates Max. Let’s be honest, most of us don’t use nearly as much hotspot access, so we’re losing more than we’re gaining. If you’re currently using Max and wish to retain it, single-line subscribers will find themselves paying close to $106 per month in total if they switch to Premium. If Max isn’t a priority, then a newer plan might be a more suitable option.

T-Mobile

T Mobile logo on phone stock photo

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

T-Mobile spent many years building up its image as the cool kid who breaks all the rules and cares for its customers, making its recent approach towards legacy customers all the more disappointing. Late last year, many T-Mobile customers voiced their outrage upon discovering that T-Mobile was preparing a limited test to automatically transition customers from older plans to newer ones. This affected not only older tiers like Select Choice and T-Mobile One but also relatively newer retired plans like Magenta. While T-Mobile made it clear that consumers could opt out, this assurance did little to mitigate the backlash. Eventually, T-Mobile retracted this plan.

Will T-Mobile raise its prices for legacy customers now that it knows its migration plan isn’t going to work? It’s a bit complicated, truth be told. During his tenure with T-Mobile, John Legere’s numerous promises complicate any rapid policy reversals. T-Mobile was likely aware of this and attempted to be sneaky here, but that clearly didn’t work either. Since then T-Mobile has announced that its Price Lock promise will no longer apply to new customers but legacy customers shouldn’t see any change.

Are T-Mobile legacy plans still worth it over the current tier?

Given that T-Mobile’s grandfathered plans have not seen any price increases, these plans are still the best option for most legacy customers. They are not only more affordable but also offer better perks than newer T-Mobile plans. It’s also worth noting these legacy T-Mobile plans are both cheaper and better than current and grandfathered plans on Verizon and AT&T.

Which of the big three carriers handles legacy plans the best?

Sprint Verizon T Mobile and Verizon carriers stock photo

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

None of the US carriers have done a great job with handling their legacy customers recently. T-Mobile’s initial plans to change customer plans without direct intervention came as an unwelcome surprise. Although it’s commendable that T-Mobile listened and reversed course, the situation still cast the carrier in a negative light. Meanwhile, Verizon and AT&T may not be overtly forcing their users onto more expensive plans, but the effect is essentially the same due to price increases.

Currently, T-Mobile manages its legacy plans the best, having not introduced steep increases like its competitors. However, this approach seems less about genuinely wanting to assist consumers and more about managing perception and optics.

If you’re contemplating switching carriers due to price hikes and are looking for a carrier that won’t unexpectedly raise rates or migrate you without consent, the decision is challenging. Of course, T-Mobile will likely continue its current course of avoiding price increases just so it doesn’t end up with a class-action lawsuit on its hands. Still, the same won’t apply to new customers going forward. Similarly, we can’t trust AT&T and Verizon won’t continue to push consumers to switch by progressively devaluing their old plans. For those seeking greater flexibility from their carrier, a prepaid option might be worth considering.

Why prepaid might be a better option for many US consumers

Google Fi Wireless logo on smartphone with SIM card and SIM ejector next to it Stock photo 1

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

In America, we’re accustomed to obtaining service directly from network providers, but this isn’t necessarily the case elsewhere. In much of Europe, smaller MVNOs, typically offering prepaid services, are favored. Postpaid carrier plans are more commonly used for enterprise and business purposes in many European countries. MVNOs not only promote deeper competition and price reductions but also operate on the same networks as the larger carriers. If you’re tired of price hikes and are looking for an option that’s easier to switch when necessary, prepaid services are hard to beat.

While some MVNOs might offer a less-than-optimal experience due to congestion and throttling, other prepaid carriers, such as the Verizon-owned Visible and Google Fi Wireless, provide exceptional service that rivals that of the major carriers. For instance, Google Fi offers extremely competitive pricing, starting at just $20 per line for 6 lines, including data usage in Canada and Mexico, and 5GB of hotspot access. The Unlimited Plus Fi plan, at $40 per line for 6 lines, offers even more impressive perks than those currently available from US carriers, including calls from the US to over 50+ destinations, unlimited data in over 200 countries, 100GB of Google One storage, and even a full year of YouTube Premium for new subscribers. While throttling is a possibility, my years of experience with Google Fi have been largely trouble-free.

For more insights, check out our guide to the best prepaid phone plans to discover even more options.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8 Pro: Which camera is better at night?

Google and Samsung competing for the title of best Android camera phone is a tale as old as time. On one side, we have the Pixel 8 Pro with its trio of cameras and Tensor G3-powered processing. On the other, Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra counts on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and a mountain of megapixels to help it keep pace. Both setups are capable of impressive results in good lighting, but what happens when the lighting isn’t so good? Let’s look at the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8 Pro in a night mode showdown to find out.

How does night mode work again?

Galaxy s24 ultra vs pixel 8 pro night mode interface

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

At this point, you probably have at least a passing familiarity with night photography, or Nightography, as Samsung calls it. If not, let’s run through a quick refresher.

With a dedicated camera like a DSLR or a mirrorless setup, low-light photography relies on a careful balance of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. To get a properly exposed shot, you either have to keep your shutter open longer, raise the ISO limit or grain within your photo, or open your lens wider to let in more light. Over time, photographers learn how to carefully balance all three of these elements while setting up a shot, knowing that any miscalculation can result in an underexposed photo, an overexposed photo, or just too much grain that you can’t make out your subject.

Night photography essentially takes a bunch of short exposures and combines them into one final image.

On a smartphone, however, much of that control is taken out of your hands. Low light photography on the Pixel 8 Pro and Galaxy S24 Ultra uses a series of varied exposures and post-processing algorithms to achieve the same balanced exposure as photographers do by hand. Night Sight has been around since Google introduced it on the single-lens Pixel 3, but it’s come a long way as mobile processors have become more powerful and smartphones have picked up additional sensors to work with.

What night mode looks like in practice is a short one- to three-second timer in your camera app. Once you press the shutter button, the countdown initiates, during which time you have to keep your phone as still as possible. Your phone then captures a series of exposures — some darker but sharper and others brighter but fuzzier — which it then merges in a process called bracketing. Those initial shots aren’t saved to your phone. Instead, they’re erased once the post-processing has run its course and your final image is added to your camera roll.

With that little Spark Notes refresher out of the way, let’s get to some samples. You can see the full-resolution and a few extra samples in this Google Drive folder.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8 Pro Night Mode Shootout

Ultrawide

First, we have a set of ultrawide images facing Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Although both capture many of the same details and offer similar fields of view, the first difference you’ll probably notice is the vastly different color science. Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra, for example, pulls significantly more green coloring from the treated wood of the dock and the harbor water itself, while the Pixel 8 Pro leans toward a more natural shade of brown.

Google's upgraded 48MP ultrawide sensor helps it deliver a better photo.

The two photography flagships also differ in how they handle the lights that stretch across the harbor — both above and below the water. Samsung’s 12MP ultrawide sensor seems to pick up more detail above the waterline, especially to the left, where you see a bright red sign. It’s slightly closer to the words Rusty Scupper, which is the restaurant’s name, while the Pixel 8 Pro’s 48MP sensor reduces the same sign to a vague red rectangle. This probably comes from the Pixel 8 Pro binning its shots by default and trading brighter colors for sharper details.

The advantage flips, however, once you look below the waterline. Google’s Tensor G3 pulls much better details out of the blue reflection on the right side of the harbor where you can see the aquarium. It separates different blue shades from the waves below the neon signs, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s camera reduces them to a vague blue mass. Once again, this is probably a matter of resolution and post-processing, though I prefer the Pixel 8 Pro’s final result to the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s.

Telephoto

Our next pairing punches into 5x zoom, which happens to be the length of the optical telephoto sensors on the Pixel 8 Pro and Galaxy S24 Ultra — well, the second telephoto sensor on the Galaxy S24 Ultra. As such, we can test the lenses themselves rather than allow digital zoom to enter the discussion.

Anyway, the images show another Inner Harbor staple, lovingly called Mr. Trash Wheel, and they offer a better illustration of the detail that both phones can capture with a much closer subject. And, if I’m honest, this is one of the samples that surprised me most when testing both cameras. Put simply, the Galaxy S24 Ultra hands in a much better final result. It captured sharper details and much better colors, especially in the thin red strip of lights along the side of Mr. Trash Wheel and in the series of ropes that keep the barge in place.

Despite a similar 5x telephoto setup, the Galaxy S24 Ultra delivered a much better zoomed photo at night.

Google’s Pixel 8 Pro, on the other hand, processed a much fuzzier strip of lights and practically merged the ropes with the stone wall in the background. Unfortunately, Google’s Tensor G3 chipset had similar troubles with the grass and wood beams in the background, turning the former into a texture resembling digital camouflage.

I’d also like to point out how both smartphones handle the yellow strip of buoys that funnel trash toward the wheel itself. Samsung’s 50MP telephoto sensor accurately recreated the sharp edges and colors of each yellow buoy, while the Pixel 8 Pro’s 48MP telephoto sensor shifted closer to an orange hue in the final result.

In a surprising flip from the ultrawide test, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra easily delivers a better low-light telephoto image.

Selfie

Flipping the camera around, the Galaxy S24 Ultra once again delivers a better image. Though being brighter isn’t necessarily an immediate key to success, Samsung’s selfie camera finds a better balance between brightness and detail. You can pick out individual hairs in my beard and the line of stitches across the brim of my cap, yet the Pixel 8 Pro struggles to keep up. It reduces my beard to a brown mass — the right color but sorely lacks details.

The Pixel 8 Pro also smooths some of the shadows across my face, creating a more even color where one doesn’t really exist. Samsung’s shot, though brighter, manages to recreate the clear division where the soft shadow from the streetlight ends across the bridge of my nose. There’s not a major difference in resolution between the two selfie shooters — Google’s punch hole packs 10.5MP to the Galaxy’s 12MP — so many of these differences come down to post-processing.

Once again, the Galaxy S24 Ultra grabbed more detail in the selfie photo.

Despite all the schtick we’ve given Samsung for loving reds and greens in its color science in the last few years, it once again nails the colors in our pair of selfies. The Galaxy S24 Ultra pulled out a much better shade of slate blue in my jacket and the red fleece liner, while the Pixel 8 Pro’s final product is a bit greener in my jacket with a much darker fleece lining.

Primary camera

In the video version of this comparison (at the top of this post), we teased this pair of images as a game of Guess Who. We teased them up top before circling back to the details later on, but that doesn’t work in a written article. So, let’s just pick out a few details to bring this night mode shootout home.

Samsung’s love of the color green is the first dead giveaway that the left image came from the Galaxy S24 Ultra, with brighter shades in both the harbor water (again) and the boat itself. The Galaxy S24 Ultra also captured significantly better details in the dock’s planks, and the metal supports that run along the waterline, which closely follows what we saw in our telephoto comparison.

Samsung's love of the color green is a dead giveaway for its photo, even at night.

Google, on the other hand, missed out on several of those same details, either due to its processing algorithms or the lower-resolution primary sensor. However, the Pixel 8 Pro’s color science is closer to reality in this case, offering an image that doesn’t feel as artificially brightened and shows off a more realistic shade of green on the ship’s hull.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8 Pro: Which camera is better in low light?

Galaxy s24 ultra vs pixel 8 pro cameras side by side

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

Before I get to a be-all, end-all winner between these two excellent Android phones (though you could probably guess which way I’m leaning), I noticed a few things while testing both cameras. The first is that Samsung’s night mode is lightning-fast, significantly quicker than Google’s. I took all of the photos at the same time in the same lighting conditions with both devices, but I rarely had to hold the Galaxy S24 Ultra for more than a one-second countdown to the Pixel 8 Pro’s two or three seconds. This extra time could explain some of the Pixel’s trouble with finer details and might also make a tripod something to consider.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra took less time to capture night photos, but didn't kick in before it was way too dark.

Despite its slower capture, the Pixel 8 Pro is much quicker to kick into automatic Night Sight than the Galaxy S24 Ultra. It doesn’t need to be all that dark before Google jumps to a timer, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra tends to wait until it’s truly dark, and even then, it usually asks if you want to toggle night mode instead.

With those two observations out of the way, I’ll admit that the results of this one surprised me. I’ve trusted Google and its Tensor chip as my go-to for image processing for a few years now, but Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra turned in a much stronger performance across three of our four categories. Samsung generally nailed its colors and details better than the Pixel 8 Pro, and it did so with shorter exposures across the board. There’s a new night mode king, and its name is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review: Doing (and costing) the most

Think of the biggest, most complicated Swiss Army Knife you’ve ever seen, one with more tools than you could ever use. Now, give it a USB-C port, a stylus, and four cameras on the back. Congratulations, you’ve got the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. That might be oversimplifying one of the most capable Android phones on the market, but the analogy isn’t too far off. Let’s get into our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review, and you’ll see what I mean.

What I like about the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Samsung Galaxy S24 Circle to Search lying on chair

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

There’s only one place to start with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and that’s with AI — Galaxy AI, specifically. It’s the main event, the big idea, whatever else you want to call it. Samsung mentioned the phrase a whopping 50 times during its first Unpacked event of 2024, promising a laundry list of features to make your smartphone smarter and even more helpful. Now, take that with a grain of salt because we’re still very much in the experimentation phase of on-device AI, but I’ve found a few Galaxy AI features that should probably stick around.

We’ll come back to the photography features like Photo Assist (essentially Samsung’s version of Magic Editor) later, but there are plenty of other ways to make texting, calling, and even note-taking easier. One that I’ve been using is Chat Assist, which lives within the Samsung Keyboard. It reads through messages as you type them, offering tips for spelling and grammar, but it can also give you alternative tones to try. Chat Assist has tones like Professional and Casual for use with bosses and coworkers and a #Social tone, which loads your message with emojis and hashtags, like a tweet from back when X was Twitter.

Galaxy AI is the star of this show, and there's no real question about it.

As a writer, I can usually do without Chat Assist, but the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s Note Assist is a lifesaver. It covers a few different AI features, including the ability to summarize a webpage into a more concise set of notes, something I’ve sorely needed while researching how on-device AI works. Note Assist also covers transforming my horrendous S Pen handwriting into legible notes when I have to scribble out a quick reminder during a Zoom content meeting.

Some of the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s more refined AI features, however, are those co-developed with Google. Options like Circle to Search and the ability to generate wallpapers based on a few prompts are already available on the Pixel 8 series, and now they’re on Samsung’s latest flagships as well. Circle to Search works like Google Lens, though it’s a bit easier to control now that you can pick out specific elements from a more cluttered image. Samsung’s generative wallpapers are the same as those on the Pixel 8 Pro, right down to the list of prompts you can pick from, but they’re fun either way.

Our Galaxy S24 Ultra also came with Android 14 and One UI 6.1 out of the box. Samsung’s Android 14 experience doesn’t feel much different from its previous setup, though it has a few nice tweaks. The quick settings menu has been slimmed down, shifting to smaller buttons that seem to float above your home screen rather than block it out. Samsung’s color-coordinated theming is better, too, with more app icons matching your background color instead of exclusively the first-party options. The best software news is that the Galaxy S24 series is in line for seven years of upgrades — a solid bump from its previous four years of Android versions and five years of security patches, and one that puts it back in line with Google regarding update policies.

Once you move past the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s AI-fueled heart, you’re left with the phone itself. It feels like a Galaxy S23 Ultra with a bit more polish across all aspects. The two phones look almost identical, with boxy corners, camera rings that dot the satin-textured rear glass, and an S Pen that hides away along the bottom edge. So, if you like Samsung’s existing flagship design, you’ll probably find plenty to like about the updated version. And yet, those changes offer just enough quality-of-life improvement to make them worth mentioning.

For starters, Armor Aluminum is out, and titanium is in. Apple already switched from stainless steel to titanium on its iPhone 15 Pro series, and now it’s Samsung’s turn. However, Samsung is upgrading its frame for a very different reason. Whereas Apple made the change to save a few grams from its hefty Pro models, the Galaxy S24 Ultra adopted titanium purely for its improved durability. It only shaved about a gram off the weight of the previous Galaxy S23 Ultra, but the titanium frame has a slight texture, making it much more comfortable in hand than the previous model. Oh, and the textured finish is pleasingly fingerprint-averse, too.

Samsung also upgraded its top-tier flagship to the latest and greatest glass that Corning has to offer — as usual. The sweeping 6.8-inch Dynamic 2x AMOLED is now made of a special low-glare sheet of Gorilla Armor, while the rest of the Galaxy S24 series hangs onto Gorilla Glass Victus 2. We’ll have to wait and see if Gorilla Armor is the toughest glass that Corning has to offer, but the glare-resistant treatment is already an easy win for Samsung. It offers a night and day difference in how it handles bright sunlight compared to the previous display, making it much easier to use in broad daylight. The Galaxy S24 Ultra also tops out at 2,600 nits of peak brightness, which doesn’t hurt its performance on sunny days.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 7

Credit: Damien Wilde / Android Authority

Samsung’s final display modification is probably the one you’ll notice first — it’s flat. The Galaxy S24 Ultra now matches its more affordable siblings by dropping the curved edges, so you no longer have to worry about accidental presses or squeezes. As someone with smaller hands, I welcome the change, as I can keep the frame in a tighter grip while using this beast of a phone with two hands. Granted, the swap results in slightly more noticeable side bezels, but I’d call it a fair trade.

Although its Galaxy AI features briefly touch on the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s reputation as a power user’s best friend, there’s a lot more to cover when it comes to performance. For starters, Samsung has finally done away with split levels of RAM, putting all Galaxy S24 Ultra configurations on equal footing with 12GB instead of limiting the base model to just 8GB. The increased RAM pairs nicely with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy, an overclocked version of Qualcomm’s latest silicon to give Samsung the most power possible.

That extra power translates to some of the best benchmarking scores in an Android phone right now. The Galaxy S24 Ultra topped everything but the iPhone 15 Pro Max in our Geekbench 6 run, came up just a hair short of the ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro (in its high-performance X-Mode) in the graphically intensive 3DMark tests, and topped the charts in our PCMark race. Samsung’s strong numbers were less inspiring during our stress tests, tailing off to more modest results after a few runs, but they were still good enough to stay ahead of most competitors. Although the Galaxy s24 Ultra was left behind by the ROG Phone 8 Pro, it achieved its results without trying to burn a hole through our desks, meaning that you could enjoy its performance, unlike the ASUS model. Check out our dedicated Galaxy S24 benchmarks article for a deeper dive.

Of course, none of this benchmarking performance means a thing if the day-to-day experience suffers. Thankfully, we know Samsung well enough to expect a user experience matching its lofty lab numbers. I thoroughly enjoyed how the entire Galaxy S24 Ultra package came together during my weeks with the phone, offering more than enough power for gaming, social media, and its generative AI features without ever really coming close to the thermal troubles of Google’s early generation Tensor offerings.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra landed right between a few of my busier periods of work travel, meaning that it got to be my adventure companion rather than a business partner, powering my GPS and Spotify playlist for a drive from Baltimore to Philadelphia and back. While in Philly for a friend’s birthday, I put the Galaxy S24 Ultra through plenty of work as a go-to camera for both stills and videos and also used it to stream the divisional round of the NFL playoffs using T-Mobile’s 5G network. Although the phone warmed while streaming the game, it never reached a point where it was uncomfortable to hold, nor did I feel like the battery drained too quickly.

Mentioning the battery, it hasn’t changed. I can still push the 5,000mAh cell beyond a day of mixed usage, averaging a day and a quarter to a day and a half before I have to reach for a charger. Of course, when I’m leaning on Samsung’s generative AI capabilities, the results are slightly lower, closer to an even day. And yes, it’s easy to toss out anecdotal battery results, but the Galaxy S24 Ultra backs it up in the lab, too.

We put it through a battery stress test, which covers 4K video recording, 4K video playback, web browsing, and a simulated Zoom call, among other common tasks, with the Galaxy S24 Ultra coming out ahead of its predecessor nearly across the board. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 powered Samsung’s latest flagship to a 45% improvement in 4K video playback, as well as smaller 16% bumps to gaming, web browsing, and video recording. There’s a good chance that Qualcomm’s more efficient chipset is to thank for many of the results, though its advanced image processing comes with a tradeoff of 33% lower camera performance. All of this means that yes, the Galaxy S24 Ultra offers better battery life than its predecessor, and you should easily be able to push it past a day of usage, but you’ll want to be mindful of how much time you spend on each task.

When you inevitably need a charger, the Galaxy S24 Ultra still supports 45W wired — with a USB PD PPS charger — and 15W wireless speeds. It takes a hair over an hour to cruise from an empty battery to a full one with a compatible charger (no, there still isn’t one in the box), which is slightly faster than the previous generation. Our wired charging test showed a final time of about 62 minutes for the Galaxy S24 Ultra compared to around 64 minutes for the Galaxy S23 Ultra — an improvement, but a minor one.

What I don’t like about the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

By now, you’ve probably picked up on the fact that the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra gets a lot of things right. It’s as powerful as you can ask for, delivers solid battery life and charging, and sports an upgraded frame with tougher Corning Glass. However, all that success comes at a cost — both literal and figurative.

The literal half of that cost comes in the form of a $100 price bump exclusive to the Galaxy S24 Ultra. It demands an eye-watering $1,299 at the base configuration, while the top-tier version with 1TB of storage reaches all the way to $1,659 — just a hair below the folding Galaxy Z Fold 5. Of course, price increases happen, but it’s tougher to justify the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s bump when you break down what you’re getting — or rather, what others aren’t.

Samsung's $100 price increase puts the Galaxy S24 Ultra in a class of its own and makes the Galaxy S24 Plus that much more enticing.

For starters, the Galaxy S24 and the Galaxy S24 Plus get access to the same Galaxy AI features as the Ultra. That means you don’t have to pass the $1,000 barrier to use Photo Assist, Chat Assist, or translate your phone calls from one language to another in real time. Those two phones also get the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chipset in the US (or the Exynos 2400 in many global markets) and the same seven years of software updates. Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra is the only one to get a titanium frame, but even that doesn’t matter much once you add a protective case.

Even the previous generations of Galaxy devices will get access to some of Samsung’s best AI features. The company inadvertently let slip that Circle to Search, Live Translate, Note Assist, and Photo Assist would be coming to at least the Galaxy S23 series, and you won’t have to worry about a $100 price bump on any of them.

There’s room for the literal cost of the Galaxy S24 Ultra to increase, too, with Galaxy AI features only currently guaranteed to stay free through the end of 2025. That means, should you choose to keep your Galaxy S24 Ultra through the end of its life cycle in seven years, you’ll probably spend five of those years paying for the AI-powered features that you already paid extra for. Of course, Samsung has yet to detail its plans for Galaxy AI past the end of 2025, but it has suggested it might offset some of the expected subscription fees by introducing more new features — we’ll just have to wait and see.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max backs

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

As for the figurative half of the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s cost, it’s a massive phone — there’s no way around it. Samsung’s 6.8-inch display might offer more screen real estate than anyone needs, but it comes at the cost of being almost impossible to use one-handed. Granted, the presence of the S Pen suggests that you’re not supposed to use one hand anyway, but most people won’t use a stylus at all times. Pair that with the massive rectangular frame with its perpetually uncomfortable corners, and the Galaxy S24 Ultra becomes a tough device to pocket for the smaller among us. Honestly, I don’t always feel like I have the pocket space for it, even if I wanted to carry a phone this big.

Circling back to the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s AI features, just remember that we’re still in the relatively early days of on-device capabilities. As such, some of the features are still hit or miss, including the real-time translations and the Photo Assist edits. While effective for short, informal chats, Samsung’s translations get rough around the edges with more complicated sentences and subjects. Not all of the Chat Assist recommendations are particularly helpful, either. The #Social tone, in particular, feels like an out-of-date throwback with an overabundance of hashtags and emojis that I would have used in middle school. Asking the Galaxy S24 Ultra to translate, transcribe, and summarize a long text can also push its gears to their limit, sometimes bailing on the task halfway through.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra camera review

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra camera housing

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s camera doesn’t look different from its predecessor’s, which is a good thing. The Galaxy S23 Ultra earned its place as one of the best camera phones we used in 2023 with an impressive mix of long-range zoom and in-depth pro features, so it’s fair to expect the Galaxy S24 Ultra to slot right in the previous phone’s place. It largely does — don’t worry — but there are more changes to talk about than those that meet the eye, including many that take place after you press the shutter button.

We only have to spend a second or two on the hardware changes, as there’s only one worth mentioning. Samsung ditched its longstanding 10MP 10x optical telephoto sensor in favor of a shorter but higher resolution 50MP 5x optical telephoto sensor. That means the Galaxy S24 Ultra offers full-resolution photos at 5x zoom and applies a sensor crop for optical quality images up to 10x zoom, whereas the previous Galaxy S23 Ultra used a mix of digital zoom and post-processing for everything between 3x and 10x zoom. The new sensor also packs a wider maximum aperture of f/3.4 instead of f/4.9, which allows more light to reach the sensor as well as a shallower depth of field.

Outside the telephoto swap, the Galaxy S24 Ultra has the same 200MP primary sensor as its predecessor, complete with a wide f/1.7 aperture. It’s backed by 10MP 3x optical telephoto and 12MP ultrawide sensors, which remain unchanged from the previous generation. The 12MP punch hole selfie camera is unchanged, too.

Samsung’s default camera app hasn’t changed, either — it’s still loaded with customizable shooting modes and a mountain of pro features. However, the little Galaxy AI logo of stars pops up when you open your camera roll or the Samsung Gallery app. It’s both the button you tap on to begin making AI-powered edits and the tiny watermark that shows up as a reminder that Samsung’s algorithms played a role in your edited shot. Oh, and no, you can’t get rid of the watermark using AI, but you could crop it out of your shot — though that might also cut out the edits you so carefully generated. I’ll add some edited samples below, but first, a few unedited shots.

Samsung’s 200MP primary sensor delivers excellent shots in just about any kind of bright lighting condition. Whether it’s the bright, sunny pagoda or the pair of flags in the shade, the Galaxy S24 Ultra captured plenty of detail and recreated accurate colors — a welcome change from Samsung’s usual love of reds and greens. The close-up image of the balloons also shows good textures on each, with some appearing shinier, like the gray one to the right, while others are more matte. My portrait mode image of a duck also shows a pleasing depth of field, keeping the duck in focus but not immediately eliminating everything around it with artificial bokeh.

One aspect of Samsung’s cameras that is often critiqued is its issues with moving targets, and sadly, that remains an issue here. I won’t go into too much detail here as my colleague Rita El Khoury has already done that — check out her deep dive into how the Galaxy S24 Ultra handles people and pets for samples.

The change from a 10x optical zoom to 5x also works well for Samsung in bright daylight. Whereas the previous Galaxy S23 Ultra would have required a great deal of post-processing for the 5x shot of the Domino Sugar factory, the new camera captures it at full resolution before binning down to a 12.5MP final result. It picks up decent details for being on the far side of a wide harbor, with only a slight shift in the color profile where the building reflects on the water. Samsung’s 10x zoom shot uses a crop from the center of the schedule, which isn’t quite the same as true optical quality, but it’s a fair trade to get better mid-range photos. The factory’s 30x and 100x zoom images are noticeably softer, with most of the brick building being reduced to red and white rectangles — suitable for social media to show off that you can zoom so far, but that’s about it.

Testing the Galaxy S24 Ultra at night delivered perhaps the most surprising results during my time with the phone. I’m used to calling Google’s latest flagship the nighttime king, but the Galaxy S24 Ultra turned in better coloration in my selfie, more details above the water line in the ultrawide sample, and much, much better details in the 5x zoom image of Mr. Trash Wheel. The last of those three results is probably thanks to the higher resolution telephoto sensor, but Samsung’s Galaxy AI image processing shines across the entire slate of results.

Now, the editing test you’ve all been waiting for… it’s good, but not great. I expanded the image of my coffee cup and shifted the angle to see how Samsung would tackle generating part of my laptop, and it did just fine. It recreated Apple’s Starlight finish correctly but added a bit of texture to the otherwise smooth laptop and recreated the wood grain of the table as a series of lines. One of the more impressive details is that Samsung cut off the pot in the correct spot and correctly guessed the lighting by a window that wasn’t within the frame.

The sample photo of my cat tells a similar story — close but imperfect. It mostly erased my hand and my blue shirt, but rather than extending the blue of my pants off the side of the image, the Galaxy S24 Ultra halted it early, making my leg look more like a pillow than a human leg. Samsung didn’t bother to generate the rest of my cat’s paw, though the bokeh does a pretty good job of hiding what would probably be a stunted paw in a clearer picture.

I don’t have much to say about the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s selfie camera, mainly because it hasn’t changed since last year. It’s still a 12MP punch hole, which remains a more reliable bet than the previous 40MP monster from a few years back. Selfie cameras shouldn’t need to bin by default, especially when you’re probably not going to use the finished product for much more than social media. Samsung hasn’t modified its video capabilities too much, either, offering up to 8K quality at up to 30fps when using Pro Video mode or 4K resolution at up to 120fps.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra specs

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Display6.8-inch AMOLED, QHD+ resolution
120Hz display refresh rate (1Hz-120Hz)
HDR10+
ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy
RAM12GB LPDDR5X
Storage256, 512GB, or 1TB
Power5,000mAh
45W wired charging
15W wireless charging
5W reverse wireless charging
No charger in box
CamerasRear:
- 200MP main
f/1.7, OIS

-12MP ultrawide, f/2.4, 120-degree FoV
1/3.52-inch sensor

- 50MP telephoto
5x optical zoom, 1.4 μm, f/3.4, 36-degree FoV
1/2.55-inch sensor
OIS

Front:
- 12MP
f/2.2, 8-degree FoV, AF
VideoRear:
8K at 24/30fps (main lens only)
4K at 30/60fps (all lenses)

Front:
4K at 30/60fps
AudioStereo speakers
Triple mics
No 3.5mm port
Connectivity5G (mmWave + Sub6)
Wi-Fi 7
Bluetooth 5.3
NFC support
USB 3.2 Gen 1
UWB
SIMSingle nano-SIM tray
eSIM support
SecurityUltrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor
7 years of security/OS updates
Durability/MaterialsIP68
Gorilla Glass Armor on the front and back
Titanium frame
SoftwareAndroid 14
One UI 6.1
S Pen supportYes
Dimensions and weight162.6 x 79 x 8.6mm
233g
ColorsTitanium Black, Titanium Yellow, Titanium Violet, Titanium Gray

Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra?

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 2

Credit: Damien Wilde / Android Authority

The Galaxy S24 Ultra is Samsung’s most refined ultra flagship to date. Its flat display does away with accidental presses, while the titanium frame is delightfully fingerprint-free, and it’s still tough to match the brilliance of Samsung’s high-end displays. The beast of a smartphone remains a dream for power users, too, with remarkable performance from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and several Galaxy AI features stepping in to make calling, texting, and even note-taking easier in your daily life.

We’ve come to expect greatness from Samsung’s Ultra year in and year out, and it continues to deliver. The Galaxy S24 Ultra packs four incredibly flexible rear cameras, offering some of the best zoom capability you’ll find on a flagship and a color profile that’s slowly but surely inching toward natural. Galaxy AI has a role here, too, especially when eliminating unwanted objects from your shots. Mix in an update promise that once again leads the Android class (or at least ties with Google), and it’s easy to see the Galaxy S24 Ultra earning a place in your pocket for a long time.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra offers all of the smartphone power you could ask for if you're willing to pay Samsung's sky-high price.

However, it’s just as easy to pass over the Galaxy S24 Ultra as an upgrade you don’t need. Its $100 price increase is tough to justify when the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24 Plus didn’t get the same treatment, and the Galaxy S24 Ultra seems to be missing a killer reason to upgrade now that many of its cloud-based Galaxy AI features have already been confirmed as coming to the older Galaxy S23 series. Samsung’s titanium frame isn’t a must-have, either, as it barely saves any weight, and you’ll probably forget it’s any different from Armor Aluminum as soon as you put your phone in a case.

If you decide the Galaxy S24 Utlra isn’t for you, its best alternative is just one step down the Samsung totem pole. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus ( ) is the easiest member of the trio to recommend, offering the vast majority of the Ultra experience without the full brunt of the high price tag. It’s just a tenth of an inch smaller at 6.7 inches but packs a 4,900mAh battery and identical charging specs to Samsung’s most expensive flagship. As mentioned, the Galaxy S24 Plus also gets the same slate of Galaxy AI features, meaning that you can circle to search, tap into call or chat assist, and edit your photos without the uncomfortable corners of the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s boxy frame digging into your hand. You’ll have to live without the second telephoto sensor and the S Pen, but the savings are more than worthwhile.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra vs Apple iPhone 15 Pro backs standing

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

You might also decide to skip Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem altogether, in which case it’s time to check out some of the best Galaxy S24 Ultra alternatives.

The first option that springs to mind is Google’s Pixel 8 Pro ( ). Although priced in line with the more affordable Galaxy S24 Plus, the Pixel 8 Pro is a true Galaxy S24 Ultra rival. It beat Samsung to the punch with Magic Editor for photos, its long-term update commitment, and even the swap from a curved display to a flat one. Of course, the in-house Tensor G3 chip still doesn’t hold a performance candle to Qualcomm’s powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy, nor does the Pixel 8 Pro charge nearly as quickly as the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Ultimately, though, choosing between these two may come down to which flavor of Android you prefer — Google’s light, stock-like experience or Samsung’s heavier, feature-rich One UI.

Another wildcard worth looking at is the OnePlus 12 ( ). It’s once again more affordable than the Galaxy S24 Ultra (most phones are), but it packs a spec sheet that punches well above its price tag. The OnePlus 12 stuffs a massive 5,400mAh battery into its slim frame, then backs it with 80W wired charging and finally brings back 50W wireless charging after several years on hiatus. It matches the Galaxy S24 Ultra with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset under the hood and either 12 or 16GB of RAM. The partnership with Hasselblad continues to pay off for OnePlus, too, with a trio of powerful, high-resolution sensors and a color profile that’s come a long way. That said, the OnePlus 12 puts the least emphasis on new AI-powered features, so it might be one to avoid if you’re looking to get generative.

Oh, and given the sky-high price of the Galaxy S24 Ultra with 1TB of storage, it might be worth looking at a foldable Android phone as a better use of your money. Both the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 ( ) and OnePlus Open ( ) are excellent options, with the former offering many of the same software features as the Galaxy S24 Ultra. It won’t receive as many updates, nor does it have the same slate of AI features, but it lets you customize the internal and external displays independently — something most foldable phones ignore. The OnePlus Open is one of those foldables, but it makes up for the limitation with a much more usable cover display and lighter overall construction.

Should you choose to venture outside of Android altogether, Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro Max ( ) is the one iPhone worth considering. It’s the only device to outpace the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in our Geekbench 6 scores, and Apple’s top-tier flagship remains the camera to beat when it comes to shooting smartphone video. It grabbed a titanium frame before Samsung did, and Apple has finally softened its sharp iPhone edges, at least a little bit. The iPhone 15 Pro Max set the original standard for software update commitments, and it continues to match Google and Samsung each time they improve their promise. Of course, you’ll have to get used to iOS and its quirks, but you’ll finally show up as a blue bubble to all of your iMessage-toting friends.

All told, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is an excellent smartphone. It takes up the mantel of its predecessor and carries it further, adding a titanium frame and several Galaxy AI features to the mix while maintaining the already excellent camera setup. It’s Samsung’s most complete experience to date, offering power that can satisfy the most demanding of users at a price that’s high enough to potentially turn away almost all others.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review: FAQs

Is the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra waterproof?

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has an IP68 rating, which means it can be submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes and is fully sealed against dust.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S24 have an SD card slot?

No, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has a single nano-SIM tray but does not support an SD card.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra have an S Pen?

Yes, the Galaxy S24 Ultra supports an S Pen, which is housed to the left of the USB-C port.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra come with a screen protector?

No, the Galaxy S24 Ultra does not have a pre-installed screen protector, but it does have an upgraded panel of Gorilla Armor.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra support 5G?

Yes, all models of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra support 5G.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra have a headphone jack?

No, the Galaxy S24 Ultra does not have a headphone jack.

Tested: The Exynos Galaxy S24 is better than we expected

The return of Samsung’s Exynos chipset in the Galaxy S24 series once again leaves us with a high-end flagship series sporting a key hardware difference depending on where you reside. To recap, all Galaxy S24 Ultra owners and S24 and S24 Plus customers in the US, Canada, China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong all receive the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chipset. Customers who buy the Galaxy S24 or S24 Plus in Europe, the UK, India, and other regions receive the Exynos 2400 for Galaxy.

We’ve already covered the low-level Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Exynos 2400 specifications; today, we’re diving into our test results to explore what differences, if any, there are to be found when using these phones. To make the test completely fair, we’ve grabbed both Exynos and Snapdragon versions of the regular Galaxy S24, ensuring consistent battery capacity, display specs, and other hardware for our side-by-side comparison.

Snapdragon has the best performance

Look across your suite of benchmarks, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 model comes out ahead of the Exynos Galaxy S24 in every test. The margins aren’t huge; there’s just 7% between the two in Geekbench 6 and 5% in PCMark. Due to the phones ‘ similar CPU and memory capabilities, you’re unlikely to notice any performance difference for daily and heavy-duty workloads. Perhaps the most interesting result is that the Exynos’ ten-core setup is bested by Snapdragon’s bulkier eight-core CPU design.

However, the suite of 3DMark graphics tests show bigger wins for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which outscores the Exynos 2400 by 25% in Wild Life and 18% in the more demanding Wild Life Extreme. The exception is Solar Bay, which uses ray tracing. The two models score virtually identically here, suggesting a ray tracing bottleneck in the Adreno architecture. Samsung’s use of AMD’s RDNA 3 Xclipse architecture pays off here.

Turning to stress tests, it’s clear that the limited cooling capabilities of the compact Galaxy S24 form factor don’t allow either of these GPUs to run at full tilt for long. Both throttle back roughly simultaneously, but the Snapdragon model falls furthest from its peak potential. It falls to just 47.9%, 54.2%, and 43.6% of its peak performance in each respective test. Exynos falls to 54.9%, 56.5%, and 60.3% after 20 runs. That said, the 8 Gen 3 still outperforms the Exynos chip in standard rasterization. The exception is ray tracing, where the AMD architecture pulls ahead as heat builds up.

Snapdragon is the stronger gaming chip, but Exynos wins at ray tracing under stress.

Interestingly, the Exynos chip has marginally higher temperatures across all three of these tests. It averages about 2°C warmer than the Snapdragon phone under stress. Thankfully, neither phone breaches the dreaded 50°C mark.

Exynos offers better battery life

While Snapdragon has the edge in performance, our testing suggests Exynos Galaxy S24 customers will see better battery life than their Snapdragon counterparts. This was also the case with previous-generation chipset comparisons, including the Snapdragon 865 vs Exynos 990 and Snapdragon 888 versus Exynos 2100.

It’s not a clear-cut win for Exynos in all our battery life tests. Camera capture time clocks in at about the same on both models, and the Snapdragon version lasted 16% longer at 4K30 video capture.

However, the Exynos Galaxy S24 pulls ahead with 17% longer 4K video playback and gaming benchmark times, and a 14% lead in our Zoom call test. The biggest win, however, is 36% longer battery life in our automated web browsing test. When it comes to the tasks you’re likely to do most often throughout the day, the Exynos Galaxy S24 seems to last a fair bit longer.

Exynos steams ahead with at least a 15% lead in most of our battery life tests.

Why is this the case? There are a few possibilities. First, the Exynos 2400 has two additional small CPU cores and lower clock speeds across all ten of its cores. Using the lower-clocked CPUs for lighter workloads, such as web browsing, should consume less power because the background work is distributed across lower-power cores. Similarly, it could be that Samsung Foundry’s third-generation 4nm (LPP+) manufacturing process is as or even slightly more efficient than the TSMC 4nm process used by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

This could also factor into the longer video playback times we see with the Exynos model. It’s also possible that Samsung’s video decoder is more efficient, but we’re well into speculation here.

Of course, this test suite isn’t an exhaustive list of possible use cases, so your mileage will vary. Modem capabilities and the associated drain when roaming between towers will affect these results but are beyond the scope of what we can test. Likewise, background tasks and other options will drain the battery too, so this test is more of a rough guide than absolute battery life expectations. Still, the Exynos 2400 seems more frugal across most of our tests, pointing to longer battery life for global customers versus the Snapdragon model.

Snapdragon vs Exynos Galaxy S24, which is better?

Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus vs Samsung Galaxy S24 in hand

Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus
Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Looking at this year’s Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus models, the regional trade-off is marginally higher gaming performance for Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 customers, especially when it comes to non-ray-traced titles. However, Exynos users may end up with battery life for many common workloads. Everyone will have their preference and priority here (I’d take the extra battery life).

Ultimately, there’s not a lot to be done about this anyway. Whether your region ships Exynos or Snapdragon versions of the Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus is a lottery, and we’d hardly recommend the hassle of importing a different model. Afterall, the core Samsung Galaxy S24 experience is the same, regardless of which processor your phone features.

Creative’s Pebble Series: Unveiling big sound, awesome looks, and impressive value

Od: AA Staff

Creative Pebble X on desk 2

Credit: Creative

In the vast, wild world of audio tech, giants often overshadow the little guys. This is what makes Creative’s Pebble series so unique. They are the little speakers that could, both literally and figuratively. They are so small you can hold them in the palm of your hand, and at the same time deliver impressive audio. These desktop speakers are made to look premium, while keeping prices affordable and competitive with premium speakers available in the market. Creative Pebble speakers start at just $29! But we’re not here to talk about the cheapest models today. The star of the show today is the Pebble X series, an upgrade for those who need an even more premium pulse out of these pocket-friendly beats.

The new Creative Pebble X and Pebble X Plus offer a great proposition to those who want quality desk speakers at a price that will not break the bank. These aren’t your grandpa’s speakers; they offer impressive specs like power output of up to 30W RMS when connected to a PD adapter, with a peak power of up to 60W. You can also have them in 2.1 or 2.0 configurations, and they feature both wired and wireless connections. The best part? They feature RGB lighting and six built-in audio presets!

A bit about the Pebble speakers

Creative Pebble speakers next to actual pebbles

Credit: Creative

The Creative Pebble X series is by no means alone here. Creative has a wide range of options from which you can choose. Sporting sleek and minimalist designs, each product in the Pebble lineup offers powerful audio performance packed into a small footprint.

All these Pebble speakers have high-quality drivers and built-in passive radiators that produce clean and balanced sound with rich bass. Whether it’s the Pebble V3 for versatile connectivity, the Pebble Plus for enhanced bass performance, or the Pebble Pro for immersive audio in a compact form factor, the Pebble family has something for everyone’s preferences, needs, and, of course, budgets. It’s the ideal choice for users seeking an audio upgrade for their desktop or entertainment setups.

Hit up Creative’s website to learn more about its product portfolio, get all the specs, and purchase whichever you prefer. This song goes on, though. Creative has also launched its latest and greatest Pebble X and Pebble X Plus. We’ll cover everything about these in the rest of this article.

Design and build quality: Minimalist meets fun

Creative Pebble X Plus with lights on 2

Credit: Creative

These speakers have a very special design. The Pebble X and X Plus don’t just sit on your desk; they own it. They look both minimalist and fun, thanks to the customizable RGB lighting. Creative has once again proven that you can have your stylish speaker and listen to it, too. All while keeping the price low.

We all love RGB, right? There’s no doubt it’s part of the allure here. These lighting effects can be customized and reproduce 16.8 million colors, so you can fine-tune these to your exact preferred hue. Those who don’t want to overcomplicate their lives can also use one of the six default presets.

Audio performance: These little guys get loud!

Creative Pebble X Plus (4) 2

Credit: Creative

When it comes to blasting your favorite tunes, the Pebble X and X Plus don’t play around. Well, they do, but you know what we mean. These get upgraded all around.

For starters, these units come with 2.75-inch full-range drivers, ensuring the sound quality is better than the Pebble series has ever offered. When connected via USB-C to a computer, these can handle 15W RMS and 30W peak power. Grab a fast USB-C wall charger with support for 30W or more, and these numbers can be doubled to 30W RMS and 60W peak power.

Additionally, the Pebble X Plus also comes with a compact subwoofer, making your bass go boom without taking much room.

Connectivity and compatibility: No strings attached (unless you want them)

Gone are the days of fumbling with cables. The Pebble X and X Plus come equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, allowing you to easily connect wirelessly. But for those who prefer a more traditional approach, USB audio playback and the good ol’ 3.5mm jack are there to keep you tethered. And with the Creative app, customizing your audio is as easy as pie.

Features and enhancements: More bells and whistles than a one-man band

Hardware is only half the battle. Creative has also included some software enhancements that will make your general listening experience much better. With Dialog+ technology, the dialogues in your movies will be clearer. And BassFlex? It’s like having a mini-concert in your room, minus the crowds and overpriced snacks. And if you’re pickier about the audio, there’s also Acoustic Engine, Creative’s advanced equalizer.

You can customize your experience using the Windows, Android, or iOS app.

Pricing, availability, and value: Your wallet will thank you

Creative Pebble X 2

Credit: Creative

Let’s talk turkey. The Pebble X and X Plus offer great quality and value for the price you pay. Of course, they are also the best Creative Pebble speakers around, so you’ll have to pay a bit more for them, too.

Right off the bat, bring home a pair of the Creative Pebble X for just $90. For an upgraded bass performance, the Creative Pebble X Plus goes for $130.

Available for pre-order, these speakers are about to make waves, and not just the sound kind. And with the Creative app available on all your favorite platforms, getting started is as easy as pressing play.

Wrapping up: The Pebble That Became a Mountain

In a world where size often matters, the Pebble X and X Plus prove that great things can also come in small packages. We believe Creative has once again outdone itself, offering a pair of speakers that seem to deliver on quality, affordability, and sheer vibes. We believe it’s a good option, and we’ll try to test them soon enough to give you a more in-depth opinion.

They offer a compelling mix of sound quality, design, and features that justify their price tags. However, potential buyers should consider their specific needs and whether the additional features of the X Plus model, such as the enhanced bass and customizable lighting, are worth the premium.

5 Android apps you shouldn’t miss this week and all the latest app news – Android Apps Weekly

Welcome to the 522nd edition of Android Apps Weekly, where we discuss the latest in mobile news and take a closer look at some of the most interesting new apps and games. Let’s jump right in and take a look at some of the biggest highlights from the last week:

Android Apps Weekly: New apps and games

Looking for some new Android apps and Android games to keep you occupied? This week saw two new apps worth highlighting, as well as three great games. 

High Seas Saga DX

  • Price: $7.49

The classic pirate crew strategy sim is better than ever on mobile with the release of High Sea Saga DX on Android. Just like the original, you can recruit your crew, choose your job type (nomad, sniper, cadet, etc.), collect treasures and other items, engage in battles, and much more. The biggest difference in this version is the removal of the free-to-play model, replaced by a one-time purchase price of $7.49. Additionally, it introduces several improvements, such as the option to buy medals with gold and the addition of new community and PvP features.

Ghost Survivors: Pixel Hunt

  • Price: Free with in-app purchases

Ghost Survivors dives right into the action with a straightforward plot centered around the release of demons and other monsters from the underworld. This game admittedly feels very familiar. If you’ve played Vampire Survivors or any similar games, you’ll know what to expect. That said, I honestly still had fun with this one, moving around the stage and firing arrows and other weapons at ghosts, creatures that resembled Mario-style Piranha Plants, and more. There’s nothing groundbreaking here, but the art style is actually quite enjoyable, and I laughed out loud when I realized one of the characters in the brief cutscene images was essentially an Aang knock-off from Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Get it on Google Play

Disney Realm Breakers

  • Price: Free with in-app purchases

Disney Realm Breakers is a mash-up game featuring a wide range of Pixel and Disney characters that must come together to save the world of Noi from the Scourge Legion.  I’m cheating a bit by adding this to the list as it’s not out yet for most of us. Disney Realms Breakers is currently in its soft launch phase, available in the Philippines, Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia. As for the gameplay? It looks to be a combination of strategy and city-building, though there’s also combat and other components to the mix. 

NBA Infinite

  • Price: Free with in-app purchase

NBA Infinite is a real-time PvP mobile game that allows you to build your dream team from scratch and compete against others. One of the most standout features of this game is its excellent graphics for a mobile platform. However, the gameplay is currently a bit unbalanced, which, despite the game still being enjoyable, can lead to frustration at times. Thankfully, it appears the developers are well aware of these issues and are actively working on making improvements to enhance the gaming experience in future updates.

Superlist

  • Price: Free with in-app purchases

superlist

Credit: Andrew Grush / Android Authority

Remember Wunderlist? It was one of my personal favorites until Microsoft bought it and retooled it as Microsoft To Do. While this is still a decent app to this day, I preferred the original Wunderlist. Feel the same? You’ll be excited to know Superlist is a new app from the creators behind Wunderlist. The new app is far from a clone of that early experience but it has some of that same spirit to its design.  I’ve been using this one for about a week for my own personal to-do lists and while i think it has room for improvement, I actually like it better than Microsoft’s current take. 

Get it on Google Play

The Galaxy S24 colorized my black-and-white photos and made strawberries brown

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eB7ciQnvb0

An urban legend tells the tale of Google promising a cool feature for its Photos application: the magic ability to turn your old black-and-white photos into colorful pics. Google’s magnificent dataset of photos would help its AI engine figure out what a certain shade of grey should have been, originally. So your grandpa’s blue shirt would become blue again, and the tree behind him would return to its green shade.

Sadly, Google has yet to release this feature for its Photos application (it briefly tested it then took it back). In the meantime, Samsung has already taken the leap and added a Colorize option as part of its Galaxy AI features on the Galaxy S24 series. And it’s incredibly easy to use, but is it any good, for real? Can you rely on Samsung to turn your black-and-white photos into a colorful snap? I did some extensive testing.

You can only colorize what Samsung lets you colorize

Colorizing photos is an option Samsung reserves to itself, in a way. It’s not part of the generative edit magic button, and can only access it in Samsung’s Gallery app. It’s one of the smart suggestions that show up as a chip (on the bottom left of the photo) when you swipe up on a pic to see its details.

Once you hit the Colorize button, it only takes a few seconds for the Galaxy S24 to pop up the result. Samsung shows a before/after slider, so you can check the result before saving it (or saving it as a copy). The best part is that sometimes it understands that there are focal points in your photo, like in this collage of two of my photos. It gave me the option to zoom in on both faces to see the before/after transformation. Cool.

However, since this is a smart suggestion, I can’t force it on photos that Samsung doesn’t deem worthy of colorizing. I tested the feature with about 30 black-and-white photos and the Colorize suggestion popped up on all of them except the two below. Both sushi photos, for the fun coincidence. Since I didn’t get the option here, I can’t force colorize these pics in any other way. So my sushi platters will remain colorless for now.

Colorizing people and pets

I started my tests with photos of those we love the most — people and pets. Speaking from a personal perspective, the photos I’d want to colorize would be of my grandmas and grandpas, and the early childhood pics of my parents. We have dozens of albums’ worth of black-and-white snaps that could use an extra sparkle like this.

But since I don’t know the real colors of those photos and since I wanted to test Samsung’s ability to recreate those, I decided to run my test on photos where I have the originals. So I took some photos from my library, dropped the saturation down to zero, made them black-and-white, saved that as a new photo, and transferred them to the Galaxy S24.

In the first samples below, you’ll see how Samsung deals with people and pets. In general, it nailed what should be a skin tone (though the side of my face in that collage remained blue), the pink hue of lips, and the color of grass in the background of the dog’s photo.

I would say my husband’s photo above is the most realistic colorization of the bunch. Yes, it failed at getting the colorful ceiling panels above him, but the face and shirt look good if a little cold. I could add a bit of warmth to that photo and you wouldn’t be able to tell it started as a black and white photo.

In general, Samsung nailed what the colors of skin, hair, lips, and tongues.

The other two photos above exhibit a filter-like effect. The saturation is too weak, my indigo sweater looks almost black, and the grass beyond the dog is too pale. Given Samsung’s propensity to over-saturate its own camera photos, it’s weird to see it go the other way in this colorization exercise.

My biggest disappointment is in the Samoyed’s colorization. A proper AI should recognize the dog’s breed and know they’re white, not pink-purple. This shouldn’t be a question.

Bringing landscapes back to life

Moving on to landscapes, I had high hopes. This is the exact opposite of people: Given an extensive dataset of photos and locations, colorizing a greyscale landscape should be kids’ play for an AI engine.

The Galaxy S24 disappointed me a bit here. The first two landscapes of the Swiss mountains and Lake Bled, respectively, turned up too warm and vintage.

The third photo is the best colorization result I’ve seen among all 30+ images I tested. It looks nearly perfect, and both the blue and green hues are quite close to the original pic’s colors.

Adding some colors to flowers

My disappointment continued with photos of flowers. Once again, given a proper dataset, the AI should know the flower’s exact species and figure out exactly what color it should be. In my tests, that wasn’t the case.

I expected Samsung's AI to know the flower's exact species and colorize it accordingly. It didn't.

The first colorization is fine, until you notice the pink center of the hibiscus is nowhere to be found. But the other two are more of a crime against botany everywhere. Gone is the blue-purple of the globe thistle, replaced by a warm yellow-green shade. The orange and yellow of the Peruvian lily are barely colorized into a blue-green tint. There aren’t many colors of these flowers, so Samsung shouldn’t get them wrong.

Colorizing food is hit-and-miss

If you were already thinking that there isn’t a lot of extra “intelligence” going on behind this feature, this should seal the deal. While the burger and fries photo is fine (and probably the second best after the green and blue landscape above), the fruit bowl is an absolute disgrace if you ask me.

Samsung turned strawberries, blueberries and bananas into three shades of brown.

Even in the black and white photo, you can tell these are bananas, blueberries, and strawberries. You can’t turn them into three shades of brown!

The same is true of the pizza photo, where the pink of the ham is brought back as a boring light brown mush. I’d forgive missing the red of the platter because there’s nothing to hint at it in the original photo, but the pink ham should be an easy one.

From simple scenes to challenging colorful scenes

I knew I was hitting a wall with this feature, but I decided to push it a bit more. First with a few simple scenes that it handled rather fine. It didn’t choose the right color tone in the first two underground and cellar photos, but the result is realistic. I’ll also give it some extra points for recognizing the white and red of the lighthouse.

Things became tougher as I went on. Photos with multiple colors result in a boring single-hue colorization. I don’t blame Samsung for not knowing the exact colors here, but it’s proof that the AI has limits. It sees shades of grey and figures out a middle hue value that makes sense. It isn’t using geolocation or a huge public dataset to colorize photos.

Samsung isn't using geolocation or a huge public photo dataset to colorize photos.

Case in point: Bilbao’s building (first photo) and Le Havre’s Catène de Containers (third pic) become orange mush and whatever that blue-green’ish shade is for the shipping containers.

Pushing further, I tested the Colorize option on extremely busy photos and the results were a bit bad in the first two samples (too vintage-feeling and desaturated), while the third one nailed the trees and lights colors quite well.

Red is the toughest color

You might have noticed that in many of the examples above, the Galaxy S24’s colorization engine is often choosing to veer away from reds. The only times it really added some reddish hues were for pink lips and the lighthouse. For the flowers, strawberries, pizza ham, and many other red elements, it just ignored the red color. This is another example. The red lighthouse is turned into a blueish grey.

Verdict: Can Samsung really colorize your black-and-white photos?

samsung galaxy s24 ultra colorize in gallery 2

Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

For photos of people, I’m convinced that Samsung will do a good job of bringing those old black-and-white snaps into life. All of the examples I tested (including the ones I didn’t share here for privacy purposes) got a good skin tone, proper pink for the lips, and decent enough hair coloring. Now if you have red hair or blue eyes, lower your expectations. The Galaxy S24 might not guess that.

For all other photos, the results are mitigated. I expected Samsung to use different factors (subject of the photo, location, and its own image dataset) to get some color back into photos. But as shown by the examples of the dog, flowers, different landscapes, and those brown strawberries and blueberries — sorry, I just can’t forget those! — that isn’t the case.

I suspect that Samsung's AI, in search of speed, is dividing photos into specific areas, and sometimes lumping the entire pic into one.

Plus, I have a suspicion that Samsung’s AI engine, in search of speed, is attempting to divide any photo into specific areas before it colorizes it. Most times the whole photo ends up lumped together and gets the same treatment.

You’ll see this in colorized photos that are basically just a single tone (sea port lighthouse above, Bilbao buildings, fruit bowl, pizza, flowers photos, most of the landscapes, and the dog photo). And that tone is often too warm or too cold, not saturated enough, and definitely too vintage filter-like.

In some photos, though, you get two or three different zones and a different tone between each. These are the ones that are the closest to reality and the original photo. This is true for the first lighthouse photo, the green and blue river landscape, and the burger. Those are my favorites of the bunch.

For old photos of people, you don't know what you're missing on, but you know what you're gaining. The feature is a win then.

In conclusion, I’d personally try this feature on photos of people, and I’d expect it to do things mostly right. If I’m colorizing super old photos, I won’t know what colors I’m missing on, but I’ll know what I’m gaining. So it’s a win. For anything else, it’s a coin toss. I wouldn’t waste my time. Keep the vintage black-and-white instead of a bad yellow or blue filter.

Is TikTok safe?

TikTok is perhaps the most controversial mainstream social network after Elon Musk’s X. Some people accuse it of being superficial, and worsening attention spans as well as the self-image of teenagers. Its harsher critics say that it can be used to spread misinformation, or that it might even be a potential attack vector for the Chinese government. So what’s the reality of the situation? Is TikTok safe to be on?

Is TikTok safe?

Chromecast now supports TikTok

The answer to this is complicated. On an immediate, practical safety level, there’s not much to worry about. Millions of people watch videos on TikTok daily without being being affected by malware or data theft. Indeed the malware threat is basically non-existent unless someone tricks you into visiting a dangerous link — we’ll touch on that in the next section.

It’s when you zoom out that issues start to manifest. Some people find TikTok addictive, and it certainly doesn’t help with attention deficit problems, since the whole point is to deliver a non-stop stream of short video clips. It can distract from school or work, and like Instagram, it can potentially warp a person’s self-image — professional influencers strive to look sexy, successful, and adventurous, often well beyond what’s realistic.

TikTok has moderation to counter misinformation and disinformation — the latter being intentional — but some of it bound to slip through, and has in the past. That includes false claims about elections, vaccines, mass killings, and other topics. It wouldn’t be such an issue except that if the app’s algorithms decide you like something, they’ll feed you more of the same, and it’s possible for people to get trapped inside an ideological bubble.

For some, the greater concern is TikTok’s ownership. While the service doesn’t operate in China, its parent company — ByteDance — is based in Beijing, which has raised fears of the Chinese Communist Party gaining access to customer data or otherwise exploiting the app. In the US, the White House has banned it from devices at federal agencies, and many states have done the same. For its part ByteDance has denied any influence or control by the CCP, and in practice this concern hasn’t been made manifest.

Something else to be aware of is TikTok’s data collection. There’s more to say later on, but in brief the service knows about as much about you as a service like Facebook or X, which is to say things like personal contact info, your search and browsing history, and (if you agree) your precise location and contact lists. The company is primarily interested in making money off advertising, not anything truly insidious — but if you quit Facebook for privacy reasons, you shouldn’t be on TikTok either.

Lastly, as with any popular social network, you have to be on the lookout for scammers. To improve your defenses, we’ve identified some of the most common TikTok scams.

6 TikTok scams you should watch out for

Bitcoin stock photo 11

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
  1. Fake lotteries, giveaways, and other prizes. Scammers may claim that you’ve already won a prize, but that you need to visit a link or share personal information to claim it. If you don’t remember entering an event, don’t trust this, because it’s likely an attempt at identity theft or infecting your device with malware. Alternately a scammer may claim that you’ll automatically get a prize (such as a cash handout) for liking, following, or sharing something, but it’s never that easy.
  2. Romance/catfishing scams. These are inherently rare on TikTok, but a scammer willing to play the long con might start flirting with you, gradually building up the illusion of a budding relationship. Once they’ve got sufficient trust, they’ll manufacture a reason to ask for money such as missed rent, a visa, or a medical emergency. Never get emotionally attached to someone before meeting them in person or at least taking a few video calls. If you think someone might be catfishing you, use a reverse image search tool like TinEye on their social media images — a smart scammer is going to steal photos to stay incognito.
  3. Counterfeit or outright fraudulent products. Some accounts may claim to be selling “dupes,” or offering sharp discounts on genuine fashion or electronics products. You might potentially get a tangible product if you buy a dupe, but the quality could be poor, and in either scenario there’s a too-high chance a scammer will take your money and run. You shouldn’t do your shopping on TikTok, and avoid anything that sounds like online prostitution.
  4. Investment scams. Some TikTokkers may try to pitch you on stocks, cryptocurrency, or pyramid/multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes that promise a high return in exchange for a small initial investment. In reality you’ll lose your money, whether because it’s stolen outright or the person’s claims are implausible. With stocks and crypto you might alternately be sold a “secret” guide to success, when the truth is that the creator’s riches come from people like you.
  5. Impersonation accounts. Scammers sometimes impersonate a company or celebrity with the hope of tricking you into tapping a link or giving them money, sometimes under the pretense of a charity, giveaway, or investment opportunity. When in doubt, make sure the account’s name, images, and other details line up with what you’d expect, including their verified status.
  6. Fake tech support. Whether through the TikTop app or outside of it, you might be approached by someone claiming they need you to tap a link or share account details to address the security of your TikTok account. The company does send a verification code whenever you add or change an email address or phone number, but you won’t have to tap a link, and the company will never ask you to share your account info outside of logging into the app. This scam is an attempt at identify theft or spreading malware.

Is TikTok safe for kids?

Kids probably shouldn’t be on TikTok. The app does have a 60-minute daily time limit for anyone under 18, requiring a passcode to extend it, as well as a block on direct messages if you’re 15 or under — but these requirements are often meaningless, since there’s no true age verification when you sign up. A child can easily lie about their age if they sign up solo, removing all limits on what they see. They shouldn’t encounter nudity, sex, or extreme violence, but there’s borderline content parents might not be comfortable with, not to mention concerns you might have about consumerism, distractions, or self-image.

Officially the minimum age for TikTok is 13, or 14 in some regions. If you do plan to let a teen on TikTok, you’ll want to take advantage of Family Pairing and Restricted Mode. These provide account control, though of course you’ll have to get your teen to consent to it.

What data does TikTok collect?

Android Logo Stock Image Android Robot

Credit: C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

According to TikTok, it collects:

  • Profile information, including your date or birth, email address, phone number, and anything else you share.
  • All the user content you post or upload, including things like audio, photos, video, and comments.
  • Clipboard content, phone contacts, and social network contacts, if you consent to sharing any of these.
  • Purchase information when you make a transaction through TikTok’s systems.
  • Proof of your identity or age if it’s required (say, for a livestream or verified status).
  • Message content and metadata. Don’t expect conversations to be fully private, in other words.
  • Usage patterns, including your Favorites, your browsing and search history, and how you interact with content, including ads.
  • Device/browser information such as your IP address, phone carrier, device model, screen resolution, operating system, and even battery level.
  • Approximate location based on your SIM card, IP address, or user content. Precise location (e.g. GPS) if you consent to it.
  • Third-party cookies (and similar tech) used to analyze how you use TikTok or enable some features. Some of these cookies can be disabled.
  • Info from linked third-party services like Facebook or Google.
  • Info shared from partners like advertisers, assuming there’s a way of identifying your account data.

FAQs

Is TikTok owned or monitored by China?

It’s impossible to say if the Chinese government is monitoring TikTok, but the company isn’t owned by it. It’s owned by ByteDance, which in turn is controlled by investors and employees.

Who owns TikTok?

ByteDance, a Chinese company headquartered in Beijing. TikTok doesn’t actually operate in China.

Can TikTok access everything on your phone?

It can access a lot of things, particularly if you enable requested permissions, but not everything. Check out our TikTok data collection guide for more info.

Android 15 saves you from friends blowing up your notifications

  • Android 15 is introducing a feature called “Notification cooldown.”
  • This new feature gradually lowers the volume of successive notifications from the same app.
  • Notification cooldown offers three options: cooldown all notifications, cooldown conversations, and don’t use.


Today is the day Google announced the first developer preview for Android 15. While the update doesn’t bring a ton of new stuff to Android, it does introduce a feature that some people will likely find to be pretty handy.

If you’ve been toying around with Android 15 DP1, you may have come across “Notification cooldown.” According to the description, it’s a feature that will gradually lower the volume of successive notifications from the same app. Simply put, it’s designed to prevent you from feeling inundated if you suddenly get a ton of notifications around the same time.

You can find the feature by going to Settings and tapping on Notifications. Scrolling all the way to the bottom will reveal the Notification cooldown option. When you tap on the setting, you’ll be presented with three options:

  • Apply cooldown to all notifications
  • Apply cooldown to conversations
  • Don’t use notification cooldown

We could see this setting being quite helpful if you get a ton a emails during the day, were added to an overly active group text, or if you’re getting a lot of engagement on social media.

Outside of this feature, Android introduces improved privacy measures, tools for better gaming, partial screen recording, and more.

This Acer gaming Chromebook is under $500 for first time in holiday sale

You wouldn’t often associate Chromebooks with gaming, but Acer is dispelling that notion with the Chromebook 516 GE Cloud Gaming Laptop. It was already affordable for a gaming machine at $649, and now’s your first chance to pick it up at a 26% discount. It’s down to just $479 in the Best Buy President’s Day Sale.

Acer Chromebook 516 GE Cloud Gaming Laptop for $479 ($170 off)

Nintendo Switch 2 launch reportedly delayed to 2025

Nintendo Switch Header 17

Credit: Curtis Joe / Android Authority

  • A new report claims an internal delay has caused Nintendo to change the launch date of the Switch 2.
  • The Nintendo Switch 2 is now expected to launch in Q1 2025.
  • Sources claim Nintendo wants to strengthen its first-party offerings for the launch.


It was believed that this would be the year Nintendo finally released the follow-up to the Switch. Unfortunately, it looks like we may have to wait a little longer before the Switch 2 comes out.

Earlier today, Brazilian games journalist Pedro Henrique Lutti Lippe published a video claiming he had received information from five sources saying Nintendo is targeting Q1 2025 as the launch window for the Switch 2. This was also supported by Eurogamer, who heard “similar whispers” regarding the highly anticipated console.

Now VGC is corroborating the Q1 2025 launch window with its own sources. In addition, VGC’s sources say third-party developers working on titles for Nintendo have been informed of the schedule change.

Rumors have suggested that Nintendo was planning to launch a new system sometime in late 2024. But it appears an internal delay has gotten in the way and is causing the launch to slip into early next year.

A publishing source reportedly told VGC that the delay could be related to the platform’s software. The source suggests that the launch is being delayed to give Nintendo enough time to prepare a stronger first-party launch lineup.

It’s unknown what games could be available for the Nintendo Switch 2 at launch. However, rumors have suggested we could possibly get Metroid Prime 4, a 3D Mario game, and more.

This Pixel Watch prototype will make you grateful for the launch version

A Google Pixel Watch on a user's wrist highlights the digital crown.

Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

  • A Redditor purchased an “open box” Pixel Watch on eBay for $100.
  • When starting Fastboot Mode, the owner realized the smartwatch was a prototype.
  • This Pixel Watch prototype had 1GB of RAM, 8GB of storage, and a number of issues.


The original Pixel Watch is a capable smartwatch that continues to be relevant to this day. But it looks like things probably would have played out differently if Google had stuck to the specifications of one of its prototypes.

First spotted by 9to5Google, a Redditor appears to have unintentionally gotten their hands on a prototype Pixel Watch. According to the Redditor, they bought an “open box” Pixel Watch on eBay for $100. The user initially thought it may be a demo unit or a counterfeit, but later realized it was a prototype after starting up Fastboot Mode and seeing that the Hardware Revision said PVT0.1 (production validation test).

This prototype reportedly has 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, which is lacking compared to the 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage in the launch version. The underwhelming specifications were made apparent when the owner was greeted with a “less than intended amount of RAM” after resetting and attempting to pair the device.

There appear to be other problems that plague this prototype as well. The Redditor says the smartwatch has “a lot of screen burn-in,” suffers from slow performance, has terrible battery life, and struggles with charging.

Outside of these differences, however, everything else seems to be the same. Thankfully, Google upgraded these specs before launching the OG Pixel Watch.

Android 15 update tracker: When will your phone get it?

Android 15 logo on pixel 8 pro (1)

Credit: Adamya Sharma / Android Authority

Google officially announced the first Android 15 Developer Preview on February 16, 2024. Apart from pushing the software out the door, Google also revealed the Android 15 release timeline, which gives us a sense of when to expect the upcoming preview, beta, and stable versions of the build. While all this is great, you might be wondering when your phone will get the Android 15 update.

This article will serve as a continuous update hub for Android 15 releases for all major device makers. We highly recommend you bookmark this article and return to it occasionally to check if there have been any updates for your phone!

What’s new in Android 15?

Android 15 logo on smartphone on bedside table stock photo (23)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Android 15 release date: When is the next update coming?

Android 15 logo on smartphone on counter stock photo (10)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

Google has finally unleashed Android 15, starting with the first Developer Preview You can download it manually onto a Pixel 6, Pixel 7, Pixel 8 series phone, and also the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. If you don’t have a Pixel device, you can use the 64-bit system images with the Android Emulator in Android Studio starting today.

As is customary, Google has also revealed an Android 15 release timeline with the latest Developer Preview. It’s very similar to the release trajectory of Android 13 and Android 14.

Android 15 release timeline

Android 15 release timeline

Credit: Google

As you can see from the image above, the Android 15 release schedule aligns with what we saw last year. With the first Developer Preview now out the window, the second one is expected sometime between March and April, followed by the first Public Beta release. That’s when regular folks who don’t want to flash the Developer Preview manually will be able to experience Android 15 for the first time.

After a few beta releases, the software will near platform stability in June-July, followed by the final release. Google doesn’t mention a month for the final Android 15 stable rollout. However, the final version of the software will likely roll out alongside the Pixel 9 series in October. We’re saying that because Google rolled out Android 14 on the same day as the Pixel 8 lineup.

Naturally, the Android 15 release date for Pixel phones will precede other brands. Samsung and others should also start announcing the availability details of the new Android version around the same time as its final release.

Below are all the significant milestones for Android. We’ll keep updating the list as and when Google releases fresh updates.

  • February 16, 2024 — Android 15 DP1
  • March 2024 — Android 15 DP2 (expected)

If you want to know what’s new in Android 15, make sure to visit our Android 15 features hub. And, if you want to try out the early versions of the software, we have a guide on how to install Android 15.

How to install Android 15 on your Pixel phone right now

We hope you’re ready for the next version of Android because Android 15 is finally here! Although it will be quite a while before the software becomes stable enough for daily use, that doesn’t mean you can’t give it a shot. Below, we have instructions on how to install the first developer preview of Android 15 on a supported Pixel device.

Should I install Android 15?

Android 15 logo on smartphone with light strip in background stock photo (16)

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

For now, the releases of Android 15 we have are very, very early versions. Developer previews, as the name suggests, are designed for developers to test out their apps. They are not intended for typical users. Being so early on in the development cycle essentially guarantees certain features won’t work at all, and significant bugs could be present.

With all that in mind, two types of people should install an early version of Android 15: developers and Android enthusiasts with access to a secondary Pixel phone or tablet. We strongly advise against installing a developer preview or even an early beta on your main Pixel. It’s not worth it.

That all being said, we’re not here to stop your passion for Android. Google’s tools are open to anyone, so as long as you’re willing to accept the consequences, you can install Android 15 on whichever device you choose!

What devices can install Android 15 today?

Google Pixel 8 in hand

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Google makes developer previews and betas available to the Pixel devices that will eventually get a stable launch. Unfortunately, that means quite a lot of older Pixels are not eligible, including the Google Pixel 5 and all previous models. The complete list of Pixel products that can install Android 15 is here:

  • Google Pixel 8 Pro
  • Google Pixel 8
  • Google Pixel Fold
  • Google Pixel Tablet
  • Google Pixel 7a
  • Google Pixel 7 Pro
  • Google Pixel 7
  • Google Pixel 6a
  • Google Pixel 6 Pro
  • Google Pixel 6

If you don’t see your Pixel on that list, you’re stuck on Android 14 (or earlier) indefinitely. Keep in mind that we expect to see new Pixels launch before the stable rollout of Android 15. These devices — including the rumored Google Pixel 8a — should also be able to grab Android 15 once they launch. We will update the list when these devices become official.

How do I install Android 15 DP1?

Android 15 on pixel 8 pro

Credit: Adamya Sharma / Android Authority

There are three ways to install Android 15. The first is the assisted method, which we recommend to pretty much everyone. This uses the Chrome browser to automate most of the steps and is most useful if you are moving to Android 15 from any prior version.

There are also non-assisted methods using ADB and Fastboot. These are more complicated but give you a bit more freedom. These methods are also helpful if you are already on a version of Android 15, as you’ll be able to install a newer version of Android 15 without needing to wipe your phone first.

Remember that in all cases, moving from Android 14 to Android 15 requires a complete wipe of your phone’s data. If you don’t want to do this, you should not install Android 15 on your phone.

If you’re ready, it’s time to prepare!

Prepare to install Android 15

You will need the following materials and prerequisites to get started:

  1. A Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, or Linux computer with access to the internet and the latest Chrome browser.
  2. A short, thick USB cable for connecting your phone to the computer. The original USB cable that came with the phone is best for this.

Before you move on to the next steps, double-check that you have everything you need. You don’t want to get into the process of installing Android 15 and discover you aren’t fully prepared! Once you’re ready, continue on by using either the assisted or manual installation methods below.

Install Android 15 using the assisted method

FINAL WARNING: This process will unlock your bootloader and completely erase all your phone’s data.

  1. Ensure your computer has the proper drivers for your phone, which you can grab from Google’s Pixel drivers page. This is an essential step — if you skip this, flashing will not work!
  2. Plug your phone into your computer using the USB cable.
  3. In your phone’s Settings, go to System > Developer options. If you don’t see Developer options, go to Settings > About phone and scroll all the way down to the Build number. Tap on the Build number seven times until your phone says you are a developer. Developer options should be available now.
  4. In Developer options, enable OEM unlocking and USB debugging.
  5. Visit the Android Flash Tool page for installing Android 15.
  6. Select the version of Android 15 you’d like to install. For some models, there’s a 64-bit-only version and a version that also supports 32-bit software. Either one works. If you don’t know which one to pick, choose the one that just says “(signed),” which supports both 64-bit and 32-bit software.
  7. Follow along as the flashing tool takes care of everything for you. Simply follow the instructions and remember not to touch your phone unless specifically instructed to do so by the flashing tool.

That’s it! You should now have Android 15 installed on your Pixel smartphone.

Install Android 15 using the manual method

If the more straightforward assisted method mentioned above does not work for you, you can try the manual methods. Primarily, there are two manual methods:

  1. Flashing Factory Images through Fastboot: This requires an unlocked bootloader but is the recommended path for upgrading from Android 14 to Android 15 without the assisted method. Unlocking the bootloader will completely wipe your device. The Fastboot installation will wipe your device again, but you can alter this behavior.
  2. Sideloading OTA packages through ADB and Recovery: This method is useful for Pixel devices with a locked bootloader and for users who want to preserve data moving from Android 15 to Android 15. This is not recommended if you are moving from Android 14 to Android 15.

Irrespective of the method you choose, there are some common steps that you need to get in place:

  • Install ADB on your computer by following our guide. The process also installs Fastboot on your computer, as Fastboot is part of the Android SDK Platform Tools alongside ADB.
  • Ensure that you have USB Debugging enabled on your smartphone:
    • On your smartphone, go to Settings > About Phone.
    • Locate the Build Number entry. Tap seven times on it. You will see a toast popup saying, “You are now a developer” or “No need, you are already a developer.” This means that Developer Options has been unlocked on your device, and you will see a new entry in your Settings menu.
    • Now navigate to Settings > Developer Options > Enable USB Debugging. Confirm your selection when prompted in the warning.
  • Ensure your computer has the proper drivers for your phone, which you can grab from Google’s Pixel drivers page.
  • Connect your phone to the computer. Presuming this is the first time you are connecting your phone to your computer, you will get a prompt on your phone requesting authorization for the connection. Grant it.

With this, you will have your common steps in place. You can now move forward with the rest of the tutorial, depending on the install path that you choose.

Flashing Factory Images through Fastboot

FINAL WARNING: As part of this process, your phone will be completely wiped. Please ensure you have taken adequate backups before proceeding.

  • Download the official Factory Images on your computer for your phone. Ensure you download the file for your specific phone only, as flashing the file intended for a different phone model may mess with the installation process and render your device useless.
  • Optional but recommended: Verify the SHA-256 checksum of the file you have downloaded. This reassures you that the file has been downloaded completely and correctly. Google mentions the SHA-256 checksum next to the download link.
  • Unzip the file to a convenient location. For ease of installation, you can copy the contents to the directory where ADB and Fastboot are located on your computer.
  • Connect your phone to your computer.
  • Open up a command prompt on your computer and run the command adb reboot bootloader. This will reboot your phone to Fastboot mode.
  • Unlock the bootloader of your phone: You do this by running the Fastboot command fastboot flashing unlock. Note that this will erase all data on the device.
    • If your device reboots into the OS after a data wipe, you will need to skip all the setup steps and enable USB Debugging again. Once you do, reboot back into the Fastboot mode.
  • On a Windows PC, double-click on the flash-all.bat file. This will run the batch installation file and execute all the necessary commands by itself. On a Mac/Linux PC, you will need to run flash-all.
    • In case you want to preserve your system and app data between installations, you will need to open the flash-all script in a text editor program and delete the “-w” attribute from the command. This attribute denotes a wipe, so remove it if you do not want a wipe.
  • Once the script finishes, your device will reboot into the new OS.
  • Optional but recommended: Relock the bootloader of your phone by rebooting your phone into Fastboot mode and running the command fastboot flashing lock.

Sideloading OTA packages through ADB

FINAL WARNING: This process should only be used if you’re already on Android 15. If you are on any other version, use the assisted method or Fastboot.

  • Download the official OTA update zip file on your computer for your phone. Ensure you download the file for your specific phone only, as flashing the file intended for a different phone model may mess with the installation process and render your device useless.
  • Optional but recommended: Once the file has finished downloading, rename it to a simpler name, like abc.zip, for example. This will save you from typing out the long name that the file initially downloaded with.
  • Optional but recommended: Verify the SHA-256 checksum of the file you have downloaded. This reassures you that the file has been downloaded completely and correctly. Google mentions the SHA-256 checksum next to the download link.
  • Place the file in the directory where ADB is located on your computer.
  • Connect your phone to your computer.
  • Open up a command prompt on your computer and run the command adb reboot recovery. This will reboot your phone to recovery mode.
    • In case your phone does not reboot into recovery, you can also manually reboot into recovery by shutting down your device and then pressing and holding the power button and volume up button.
  • Use the volume keys to navigate to the Apply Update from ADB option in the Recovery menu. Press the power button to select it.
  • On the command prompt on your computer, run the command adb devices. This will return a device serial number with “sideload” written next to it. This indicates that your phone is connected in sideload mode and is ready to receive further installation commands.
  • On the command prompt on your computer, run the command adb sideload abc.zip. You will need to replace “abc.zip” with the filename that you have chosen.
  • ADB will install the update zip file on your phone.
  • Once installation is complete, choose the Reboot system now option on your phone, and your device will reboot into the freshly installed Android 15 build.

That’s it! You should now have Android 15 installed on your Pixel smartphone.


FAQ

When will Android 15 release as stable?

According to Google’s own estimates, Android 15 should land as stable in the late summer of 2024. However, it could be early fall instead, as last year showed us.

When will my phone get stable Android 15?

If you have a recent Pixel phone, you should get Android 15 the same day it goes stable. If you have a non-Pixel, you will need to wait for a time. The amount of time depends on your manufacturer. Generally, if you have a recent Samsung flagship or the most recent OnePlus flagship, you should see Android 15 before the end of 2024.

Can I install early versions of Android 15 on a non-Pixel?

In a word, no. Google only makes developer previews available to Pixels. However, once we get into the open beta stage, other manufacturers will start promoting their own beta programs. You’ll need to check with your phone manufacturer to find out if and when that will happen.

Will installing Android 15 erase my phone?

As of right now, yes: installing Android 15 will factory reset your phone. Eventually, Google will release a public beta of Android 15 that you can install without wiping your device. For now, though, a factory reset is necessary.

Can I force Android 15 to update on my phone?

There is no way to get the Android 15 update before the stable launch without joining the DP/beta programs. Once you are in the developer preview or beta program, your phone will automatically get new over-the-air (OTA) updates. When Android 15 lands as a stable release, you will also automatically get that update.

The first Android 15 developer preview is finally here!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQBr03dumOs

  • Google has released the first Android 15 developer preview.
  • The software introduces an improved Privacy Sandbox, partial screen recording, and more.


It’s been a year since Google announced the first Android 14 developer preview, and this Android version is now available on a ton of phones in 2024. We’re due for the first Android 15 developer preview, then, and Google has indeed announced this today. The company confirmed that the Android 15 developer preview 1 (DP1) is now available. The update is only available for the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 range, Pixel 8 series, the Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet (and the Android Emulator in Android Studio). This update is also the first step on the road to Android 15’s release, and it brings a few notable tweaks so far.

Huge $600 savings on the 2023 Samsung 49-inch OLED gaming monitor

Your gaming rig deserves the best, and displays don’t come much better than the Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G9 OLED curved gaming monitor. The stunning 2023 display has an on on-page coupon available on Amazon right now that drops the price to $999.99. That’s $600 off, and a price only previously seen on Black Friday.

Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G9 OLED Curved Gaming Monitor for $999.99 ($600 off)

Apple’s foldable iPhone allegedly hit a snag, failing panels may be to blame

Far away Apple logo on iPhone

  • A new rumor suggests Apple has shelved its foldable phone project.
  • Allegedly, the displays on the foldable prototype were failing Apple’s tests.
  • The rumor claims the project is on hiatus for the foreseeable future or at least until Apple finds a display that lives up to its standards.


Apple has been conducting research and development on foldable phones for years now. There’s even been reports of the Cupertino firm having foldable prototypes. But all of that work may now be in jeopardy if a new rumor is to be believed.

First spotted MacRumors, a Weibo tech video blogger who goes by fixed focus digital claims Apple has temporarily suspended development on its foldable phones. It appears the reason is allegedly due to the screens not holding up to Apple’s tests.

According to a report from The Information, Apple reportedly has two clamshell prototypes it is currently working on. Fixed focus digital claims that one of these prototypes uses a display made by Samsung, but it is failing to hold up to Apple’s standards. The tech blogger adds that one of the competing products Apple purchased broke down after being folded for a few days.

It’s important to note that this tipster does not have a track record for reporting Apple rumors or leaks. As a result, this information should be taken with a healthy dose of salt.

Apple iPhone SE 4 rumors: What we want to see, and what we know so far

iPhone SE 2022 review second opinion showing back of the phone in hand

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

Update: February 16, 2024 (12:30 PM ET): We have updated our Apple iPhone SE 4 rumor hub with information about the phone’s display.


Apple’s iPhone SE range has long been the most affordable new iPhone series you can buy. Coming in at under $500, these handsets still bring a powerful processor, water resistance, and wireless charging.

The last iPhone SE model dropped in 2022, but we’re expecting Apple to announce a new model at some point. Unfortunately, all current rumors point to a 2025 launch, as it seems Apple is waiting a bit longer in-between releases for its budget phone. The good news is the iPhone SE 4 should be a much bigger upgrade, as it’s suggested it will even adopt a new, more modern design.

Let’s jump right in and talk about what we know from the rumors, as well as what we’d like to see.

Will there be an iPhone SE 4?

Apple hasn’t issued any sort of confirmation that it’s working on an iPhone SE (4th generation). Leaks have also been few and far between, so we’re not 100% sure that we’ll see an iPhone SE 4 just yet.

In saying so, the last two iPhone SE models were popular thanks to their sub-flagship price tags. So it seems like a foregone conclusion that Apple is working on a new model. When would it be released? That’s a tougher question.

What is the most likely iPhone SE 4 release date?

iphone se upright

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority
  • Apple iPhone SE: March 21, 2016
  • Apple iPhone SE 2020: April 15, 2020
  • Apple iPhone SE 2022: March 8, 2022

Apple launched the second iPhone SE in 2020 and the third model in 2022, so you’d assume that the iPhone SE (4th generation) would arrive in 2024.

Unfortunately, trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested in April that the iPhone SE 4 isn’t part of Apple’s plans for 2024 or 2025. In saying so, Korean outlet The Elec has claimed that mass production of the iPhone SE 4 has been pushed back by a year to 2025.

Either way, it sounds like Apple won’t launch the iPhone SE (4th generation) in 2024. So we might be in for a long, long wait. If the new phone follows in the footsteps of its stablemates, then it would appear that a March or April launch is on the cards.

What specs and features could the iPhone SE 4 have?

The iPhone SE 2022 has typically offered a flagship processor in a pocket-friendly form factor. Apple also brought a couple of premium extras to the series in recent years, namely wireless charging and water resistance.

There isn’t much in the way of leaks for the iPhone SE 4, but here’s what we’ve gathered and what we think it’ll have.

Design

iPhone SE 2022 review second opinion in hand with display on

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

The iPhone SE 2020 and 2022 both offered dated designs that were broadly in line with 2017’s iPhone 8 series. Will the company keep this design for the third time?

Well, Apple-watching analyst Ming Chi-Kuo previously claimed in February 2023 that the iPhone SE (4th generation) would have a 6.1-inch screen and would be a “minor modification” of the iPhone 14. This suggested a larger, more modern design was in store. The display size claim was echoed by The Elec in March 2023.

Of course, the analyst’s comments came before he suggested that the new iPhone SE wasn’t in the works for 2024 or 2025. But it seems like a possibility that any screen size boost would be accompanied by a tweaked design of some kind — hopefully reducing the size of those bezels in particular.

Claims of the iPhone SE 4 being based on the iPhone 14 were corroborated by MacRumors on September 27, citing preliminary information from their own sources. The outlet added that the device would have the iPhone 15 Pro’s action button.

Twitter tipster Unknownz21 claimed on August 13 that the iPhone SE 4 will indeed have a design based on the iPhone 14. They further asserted that the device will have an action button.

Specs

We’ve already heard claims that the iPhone SE 4 will be equipped with a 6.1-inch screen, but it’s also believed that this could be an OLED panel. This would be the first time we see an OLED screen on an iPhone SE model, after years of Apple using an LCD panel instead. Backing up these claims, a report from The Elec says Apple’s suppliers have all proposed their prices for their OLED displays. It’s believed the iPhone SE 4 will reuse the iPhone 13’s or iPhone 14’s display.

Ming Chi-Kuo also claimed in February that the new device would pack an Apple-designed modem instead of a Qualcomm component. He asserted that this modem would only support sub-6GHz 5G for now instead of the faster but more temperamental mmWave standard.

Apple has been working on an in-house cellular modem for ages now, but this has proven to be a tough, protracted challenge. So we’re not sure if we’ll actually see it on the iPhone SE 4 by 2025 (if the phone even comes out by then). It’s also worth noting that Qualcomm recently signed a new deal with Apple to offer Qualcomm modems inside iPhones in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

We're expecting a bigger, OLED screen and a flagship-level chipset from the iPhone SE 4, but there isn't much else to know just yet.

Twitter tipster Unknownz21 claimed the iPhone SE (4th generation) would get USB-C, Face ID, and a single rear camera. This would be the first time we see face unlock on an iPhone SE model.

MacRumors issued their own slew of apparent iPhone SE 4 details. It corroborated claims of an OLED panel, USB-C, and Face ID. It also asserted that the new iPhone would offer a 48MP single rear camera. The outlet confirmed that Apple was testing variants of the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone SE 4 with custom modems. But the iPhone 15 Pro Max shipped with a Qualcomm modem, so these variants are presumably for internal testing only.

iPhone SE 2022 review second opinion showing lightning connector

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

The choice of chipset isn’t known just yet, but all three iPhone SE models used the same processor as the latest mainline iPhones at the time. That means the original model used the A9 chip inside the iPhone 6S series, while the second-generation iPhone SE used the A13 chip inside the iPhone 11 range. Finally, the iPhone SE 2022 used the A15 processor which debuted in the iPhone 13 series.

That means the iPhone SE 4 will use whatever chipset the latest, commercially available mainline iPhones are using, right? Not so fast. Apple made the decision to effectively split the mainline iPhone series in half last year, as the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus stuck with 2021’s A15 Bionic chip while the iPhone 14 Pro models got the brand-new A16 processor. So we think there’s a possibility that the iPhone SE model could be lumped with an older (but still beefy) chipset as well.

Other specs aren’t forthcoming from trusted sources just yet. But we’d imagine that a display size bump could also be accompanied by a battery capacity increase. We’re not sure whether Apple will bring a second rear camera to the iPhone SE range for the first time, though. After all, the Cupertino company was stingy enough to skip a night mode on the iPhone SE 2022.

What might the iPhone SE 4 price be?

iPhone SE 2022 review second opinion rear logo

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority
  • Apple iPhone SE 2016: $399
  • Apple iPhone SE 2020: $399
  • Apple iPhone SE 2022: $429

The first two iPhones were pegged at a great price of $399, but the iPhone SE 2022 had a $30 price hike to a still-attractive $429. We’d love to see Apple maintaining this price tag, but we’re not optimistic.

Plenty of Android phone makers upped their prices in the last year or so due to inflation and other factors. Apple is indeed tipped to institute price increases for the iPhone 15 series, so it seems likely that the iPhone SE (4th generation) would receive a hike too.

Throw in apparent upgrades like a costly OLED screen and we’d be more surprised if the new iPhone SE model stays at its current $429 price tag. Will it rise above the $500 mark, though? We’re keen to find out.

Should you wait for the iPhone SE 4?

iPhone 12 in hand with display on

Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority

The fact that there is no solid word on an iPhone SE 4 release year (let alone a vague release window) means you could be waiting years for the new model to break cover. So we wouldn’t advise you to wait for this phone.

There are a few budget-conscious options if you’re an Apple fan, such as the iPhone 12 ( ) or the iPhone SE 2022 ( ). These phones still provide a high-performance experience with a couple of premium bells and whistles. And of course, you’re buying into the Apple ecosystem of services.

Otherwise, there are plenty of great options in the Android space, such as the Google Pixel 7a ( ) and the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G ( ). Both phones bring respectable update pledges and water resistance. But the Pixel 7a also brings flagship-level cameras, the very capable Tensor G2 chip, and wireless charging.

iPhone SE 4: What we want to see

We’ve now got a rough idea of what to expect from the iPhone SE 4, but what do we actually want to see on the new handset? We put together a short wishlist. Do note that this isn’t based on any leaks or rumors, though.

A modern (but still compact) design

iphone se product red and lightning port

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

The iPhone SE 2022 is essentially the iPhone SE 2020, which was in turn based on the iPhone 8 line. This has been an extremely dated design for a few years now, owing to those gigantic bezels in particular.

We, therefore, want Apple to bring a more modern but still pocket-friendly design for the iPhone SE (4th generation). Previous leaks do point to the upcoming model taking cues from the iPhone 14, which would be a welcome move.

A much-improved camera experience

iphone se camera app

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

One awful limitation with the iPhone SE line is that they don’t offer a night mode for the camera app. That’s a ridiculous limitation in light of its horsepower and the fact that even low-end Android phones have offered a night mode for over five years now. So it behooves Apple to finally get with the program and bring this basic photography feature to the next SE model.

We’d also like to see a secondary rear camera (presumably an ultrawide shooter) on the iPhone SE 4. But we wouldn’t count on this addition.

At least 128GB of base storage

iphone se app drawer

Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority

One of our main complaints about the iPhone SE 2022 was the meager amount of base storage. The cheapest model came with a mere 64GB of internal storage, which really doesn’t cut it in 2023.

To that end, we really hope the iPhone SE 4 brings at least 128GB of base storage. Even 128GB fills up quickly thanks to videos, our camera roll, and more. But this would still be a far more sensible starting point than 64GB.

iPhone SE 4 could be the first in the series with an OLED display

Apple logo iPhone 13 pro max

Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

  • Apple’s display suppliers have proposed prices for supplying OLED screens.
  • The iPhone SE 4 could end up using the same OLED display used for the iPhone 14.
  • This would make the iPhone SE 4 the first SE model to have an OLED display.


Traditionally, Apple uses LCD screens for its budget-friendly SE series iPhones. But it looks like the company may break with tradition for the next entry in the line.

According to a report from The Elec, Apple’s display supply partners have all proposed prices for OLED displays meant for the iPhone SE 4. Reportedly, Samsung offered the lowest price at $30 per unit, while BOE and Tianma offered $35 and $40, respectively.

These prices are lower than what was charged for the iPhone 15 because Apple plans to use older parts taken from the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14. As such, it won’t require these suppliers to put down new investments in research and development to deliver these displays. Samsung appears to be in the best position to become the supplier due to its existing stock of iPhone 14 OLED panels.

The report claims that Apple is trying to haggle the price down to $20, and negotiations are still ongoing. Since the iPhone SE 4 isn’t expected to launch until 2025, the companies still have time to lock down a price.

The display may not be the only thing the iPhone SE 4 borrows from the iPhone 14. Earlier reports from analyst Ming Chi-Kuo suggested that the iPhone SE 4 could be similar in design to the base model iPhone 14, with a “minor modification.”

❌