In my previous article, we looked at Samsung exclusive features, and now we’re continuing the series on the top smartphone manufacturers and the exclusive and unique features on their phones only. And remember, we’re using a list provided by ChatGPT, which ranked the smartphones on its own to have zero bias.
Today, we’ll focus on Apple’s iPhone, a brand well known for innovation and premium quality. Let’s explore some of the exclusive features that make iPhones stand out.
1. Universal iPhone Exclusives
(Available on all current iPhone models)
iMessage and FaceTime
Apple’s iMessage and FaceTime are exclusive communication tools with features like message effects, Memoji, and end-to-end encryption. Whether you’re texting or video calling, these services provide a seamless and secure experience that’s tightly integrated into the iOS ecosystem.
MagSafe
MagSafe is a magnetic attachment system for accessories and charging that seamlessly snaps onto the back of the iPhone. From wireless chargers to wallets and cases, MagSafe enhances the functionality and convenience of your device. The possibilities are limitless with the number of accessories that third-party manufacturers are making.
Find My Network
The Find My Network uses a vast network of Apple devices to locate lost iPhones, AirPods, or even AirTags, providing powerful tracking even without an internet connection. It’s a lifesaver when your device goes missing.
Secure Face ID
Face ID is Apple’s advanced facial recognition system powered by the TrueDepth camera for secure unlocking and payments. It’s fast, reliable, and keeps your data secure.
2. Model-Specific Features
(Exclusive to higher-end or Pro models, particularly from the iPhone 14 Pro series and above)
Dynamic Island
Exclusive to the iPhone 14 Pro and newer models with the pill-shaped notch, Dynamic Island transforms the notch into an interactive tool for displaying notifications and controls. It’s a creative use of screen space that enhances user interaction.
Action Button
Found on the iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max and 16 series, the Action Button is a customizable button that replaces the traditional mute switch. It allows users to perform different functions like launching the camera, turning on the flashlight, or starting a voice memo with a simple press.
ProRAW and ProRes Recording
Available on Pro models, ProRAW and ProRes Recording offer photographers and videographers professional grade control over image and video formats. Capture images and videos with greater detail and flexibility for post processing.
Spatial Video and Photos
Exclusive to the iPhone 16 Series, this feature allows you to capture immersive spatial photos and videos, designed to be viewed in a more 3D like experience, especially when used with Apple Vision Pro which Apple is still trying to convince us that normal people use and I’m not buying it.
Cinematic Mode
Available on Pro models, Cinematic Mode offers enhanced depth control and focus transitions for movie-like effects in your videos. It’s like having a professional film crew in your pocket.
3. Chipset-Specific Features
(Only available on models with specific chipsets, currently the A17 Pro on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, the A18 on the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro and the A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max)
A17 Pro, A18 and A18 Pro Chipsets
These chipsets power hardware accelerated ray tracing for superior gaming performance and enhanced graphics, and this is a game-changer for mobile gaming enthusiasts.
Neural Engine Enhancements
With improved machine learning tasks, faster performance, and better battery efficiency, the upgraded Neural Engine enhances everything from photography to Siri’s responsiveness, oh and let’s not forget “Apple Intelligence”.
Stay tuned for my next article, where we’ll explore the exclusive features of the third most popular smartphone manufacturer. You won’t want to miss it!
We all know that each smartphone brand brings something unique to the table. So because of this, I’m starting this article series about the top smartphone manufacturers and the exclusive and unique features on their phones only,or maybe their flagships only. We’re using a list provided by ChatGPT, which ranked the smartphones on its own to have zero bias.
First up is Samsung, one of the most popular smartphone manufacturers out there. Samsung has been a trailblazer in the smartphone industry, offering innovative features that set its devices apart. Now, without further ado, let’s look at some of the exclusive features that make Samsung smartphones stand out.
1. Edge Panels
Samsung’s Edge Panels are one of the most iconic features. They allow users to access apps, tools, contacts, and even widgets from a customizable side panel that slides out from the edge of the screen. The edge panels are designed for quick multitasking, and you can add shortcuts for pretty much anything, your most-used apps, weather updates, or even a clipboard history. Instead of navigating multiple menus, they make it easy to keep your go-to tools at your fingertips, perfect for power users who need instant access to everything.
Here’s a good scenario, imagine you’re in the middle of watching a YouTube video, but you quickly need to check your email or calculator, because, well I don’t really know why you’d need to do that, but instead of exiting the app, a simple swipe from the side gives you access to everything you need.
2. Samsung DeX
Samsung DeX is another exclusive game-changer for Galaxy users, and it’s underrated in my opinion. DeX allows you to turn your smartphone into a desktop like experience by connecting it to a monitor/TV or even using it wirelessly. Once connected, your phone operates like a PC, with a desktop interface, multiple resizable windows, and full keyboard and mouse support. You can run productivity apps like Microsoft Office or even browse the web as you would on a laptop. DeX is perfect for those who want to reduce their device load,why carry around a laptop and a phone when your Galaxy device can be both? Oh and you can even connect wireless peripherals to your phone to get the full desktop experience, I guess you can do the same with wired ones but you’d need an adapter for that.
I’ve personally used DeX, testing it, and it’s surprising how productive you can be by just connecting your phone to a TV or monitor. It’s a unique feature that adds real value if you’re someone who needs to be productive on the go, or if you’re someone like me who gets impressed by anything like this.
3. S Pen Support
One of the most loved features for those who use Galaxy Note or the Galaxy S Ultra series is S Pen support. Samsung’s stylus is not just for doodling; it offers precision and functionality that make it a powerful productivity tool. From jotting down quick notes on your screen to precise editing in design apps, the S Pen feels smooth and intuitive. It’s great for artists, students, or professionals who prefer handwritten notes or need to annotate documents on the go.
The Air Actions feature, which lets you control the phone using gestures in the air, is another cool aspect. For example, you can snap photos(which I guess others think it’s a great idea to have a button for), control presentations, or even navigate apps without touching the screen. The S Pen is a whole new way of interacting with your device.
4. Bixby
While voice assistants like Google Assistant and Siri are widely used, Bixby is Samsung’s homegrown AI assistant, designed specifically for Galaxy devices. Bixby goes beyond simple voice commands and offers a more integrated experience with Samsung’s ecosystem. It helps you manage smart devices via SmartThings, automate tasks with Bixby Routines, and even control your phone hands-free.
For example, you can say, “Bixby, start my morning routine,” and it’ll turn on the lights, read your schedule, and play your favorite playlist. Sure, Google Assistant might do something similar with way better execution, but Bixby shines in how deeply it integrates with the Galaxy device itself and the Samsung ecosystem. So while Google Assistant and Siri are relatively better, Bixby is still unique in it’s own way.
5. Secure Folder
If privacy and security are at the top of your priorities, Samsung’s Secure Folder is a must have. This feature creates a private, encrypted space on your phone where you can store sensitive apps, files, and documents. Everything inside the Secure Folder is separated from the rest of the phone, requiring an additional layer of authentication, whether it’s a password, fingerprint, or face recognition.
This feature is perfect for people who need to keep work and personal data separate or want an extra level of security for confidential files. It’s like having a hidden vault on your device that only you can access. This “Secure folder” won’t be samsung exclusive for long though, as Android 15 is bringing a similar one called Private Space.
6. SmartThings Integration
Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem allows you to control all your smart home devices directly from your Galaxy phone. Whether it’s adjusting the thermostat, checking security cameras, or turning off lights, SmartThings acts as a universal remote for your connected home. The deep integration with Galaxy devices makes it super easy to manage your entire smart ecosystem from a single app, which is a big win for smart home enthusiasts.
7. Single Take Camera Mode
For the photographers out there, Samsung’s Single Take camera mode is an exclusive feature that adds a fun, dynamic layer to the camera experience. With one press of the shutter button, Single Take captures a variety of formats, photos, videos, GIFs, and even short clips, from different camera angles and effects. It’s perfect for those moments when you’re not sure what’s going to look best, giving you a whole bunch of options without having to retake multiple shots.
It’s like being your own little photographer and director at the same time! Whether it’s for capturing a birthday party, your dog running around, or a sunset, you get everything from slow motion to wide-angle shots with just one tap.
8. Knox Security
Samsung Knox is an enterprise-grade security platform that offers multiple layers of protection for your Galaxy device. So whether you’re a casual user or a business professional, Knox provides strong encryption, malware protection, and real-time monitoring. It’s built directly into the hardware and software of the device, making it one of the most secure options available on the consumer market.
9. AR Zone
Samsung’s AR Zone adds augmented reality (AR) features like AR Doodle, AR Emoji, and AR Stickers to Galaxy devices. You can doodle on your surroundings using the camera, create your own emojis, and have fun with animated stickers that react to your facial expressions. It’s a creative, interactive way to play with AR, adding a fun touch to everyday phone use.
10. Director’s View
If you’re a content creator or love making videos, Director’s View is an awesome feature on Galaxy devices. This allows you to switch between different camera lenses in real-time while recording video, like having a multi-camera setup in your hand. You can capture both wide and zoom shots simultaneously, giving you more creative control without needing to edit in post-production.
Conclusion
These exclusive features make Samsung Galaxy devices a must-have for users who value innovation and an enhanced mobile experience. Stay tuned for my next article, where we’ll explore the exclusive features of the second most popular smartphone manufacturer, and remember, it’s the second most popular according to ChatGPT,not me so don’t come after my head because of these rankings, I’m just saying. Anyways, you won’t want to miss it!
AI just got smarter, and I mean really smart. OpenAI’s new o1 series, which was released in September 2024, brings a new level of reasoning to the table. This model was designed to slow down and think before it responds, making it a first-of-its-kind model when it comes to handling tough problems in fields like math, coding, and science. It’s even being compared to a PhD student because it can tackle incredibly complex tasks with ease. But, unless you’re subscribed to ChatGPT Plus or Team, you won’t be able to experience this impressive jump in AI tech just yet.
So, what makes this model special? I’ll tell you a little story. After hearing all the hype about the model’s reasoning capabilities, I decided to test it out myself. I asked a simple question: “How many R’s are in ‘Strawberry’?” I had done this with other models before, but they often tripped up on such simple tasks. However, o1 nailed it on the first try, 3 R’s—without hesitation. This was the first AI model I’ve used that got it right the first time. That’s when I knew OpenAI wasn’t kidding about the o1’s problem-solving skills, oh and it does more than just find the number of R’s in strawberry lol.
It’s Smarter
The key feature that sets o1 apart from earlier models like GPT-4o is its ability to think longer before responding. Unlike GPT-4o, which prioritizes fluency and speed, o1 has been trained to slow down and evaluate problems carefully. This approach is essential for complex tasks that require deep reasoning, such as solving high-level math equations, debugging code, or even understanding advanced chemistry problems. OpenAI claims this model’s problem-solving abilities mirror those of PhD students, especially in disciplines like physics and biology, so yeah, I think you see where the title is coming from.
For example, in the International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) qualifying exams, GPT-4o managed to solve only 13% of the problems. In contrast, the o1 model correctly answered an impressive 83% of the same problems. Which is way more than my best marks in school, probably. So this speaks volumes about its performance in challenging technical tasks.
However, there’s a bit of a trade-off. The model takes longer to generate responses because it’s reasoning through the task. This won’t be a problem if you’re tackling complex challenges, but if you need something quick and less precise, GPT-4o might still be your go to.
Real-World Use Cases
The OpenAI o1 series shines in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) fields. If you’re a developer, data scientist, or engineer, you’ll love its ability to reason through intricate problems. OpenAI reported that o1 reached the 89th percentile in coding contests on Codeforces, a competitive programming platform. Imagine the possibilities if you’re stuck on a difficult algorithm or need to debug a large chunk of code, o1 can help you sort through it with its powerful reasoning capabilities.
Beyond coding, its performance in chemistry and biology means it could assist researchers in analyzing complex datasets or even devising new experiment strategies. It’s designed to be a partner for those in technical roles who need more than just casual conversations or superficial responses from their AI.
That said, it’s worth mentioning that GPT-4o might still have the edge when it comes to creative writing or more general tasks. The o1 model sacrifices some writing fluidity in favour of technical proficiency. So, depending on what you need, one model may be more suited to you than the other. This also implies that this model wasn’t made for everyone, unlike GPT 4o.
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You know that feeling when you look at a new device, and you just don’t know how to feel about it? That’s exactly where I stand with the itel P65. When it comes to design, I don’t hate it, but I don’t love it either. There’s a lot going on with this phone, some of it is clever, a lot of it feels a bit… borrowed. Let’s break this down.
Design: Borrowed or Inspired?
First off, can we talk about how much this phone “borrows” from other manufacturers? Now, don’t get me wrong, everyone does it, remember Samsung’s new Galaxy Buds 3 that look suspiciously like AirPods Pros). But itel? They didn’t just take one or two cues, they went on a full shopping spree and stuffed their cart with all the popular guys have to offer.
The design itself isn’t ugly. It has this sleek, futuristic vibe with a slight Nothing Phone flair. Imagine if Nothing had a budget smartphone with a metallic, semi-industrial look, that’s what the itel P65 brings to the table. It’s almost like they wanted to create a “metallic Nothing Phone,” if that was even a thing.
But it doesn’t stop there. They threw in what they call a “Dynamic Light Show”, which is essentially an LED under the flashlight that pulses with notifications and when you charge the phone. Does this sound familiar? Yeah, glyph lights… Now, a lot of Chinese manufacturers are doing this whole Dynamic Island knock-off trend, and itel couldn’t resist jumping in, although they have also done it with previous models as well, it’s still something they “borrowed”. I’m all for adapting to current trends, but it feels like they’ve put on too many “inspired” features without truly nailing any one of them.
And wait… there’s more! They’ve also added a third button they’re calling the “Flex Button.” Now, we’ve seen something like this before on other “phones”, where it’s a customizable button for quick access to apps or shortcuts. Again, a solid idea from… if it wasn’t for the fact that it feels more like an attempt to stuff every popular feature into one device. The execution? Well, let’s just say it leaves a little to be desired.
The Specs
Despite all the flashy add-ons, the P65 is still a budget phone, and the specs reflect that. Here’s what we’re working with:
Network Technology: GSM / HSPA / LTE
Dimensions: 165.9 x 77.3 x 7.9 mm, weighing 192.4g
Memory Options: 128GB with 4GB/8GB RAM or 256GB with 6GB RAM
Camera: 50 MP main camera, 8 MP selfie camera
Battery: 5000 mAh, 18W wired charging (40% in 30 mins)
Extras: LED notification ring, “Dynamic Bar” light show, Flex Button, USB-C, 3.5mm jack, NFC (on the 256GB/6GB model)
Price: Roughly $120–$130 USD depending on the configuration
The Processor: Unisoc T615
This is where the conversation gets serious. Powered by the Unisoc T615, a chipset we typically see in budget devices(like this one), this phone’s performance is decent but not groundbreaking which is not something to sulk about since it’s a budget smartphone. With an octa-core configuration, it handles everyday tasks like browsing and social media without much fuss or at least they say it does. But if you’re looking to push it with more demanding apps, it might struggle. Any moderate gaming or multitasking across power-hungry applications? Yeah, that’s not happening smoothly on this chipset.
The Unisoc T615 isn’t a terrible processor, it’s efficient and gets the job done for basic needs. But in 2024, when even budget phones are starting to push boundaries with performance, it feels like itel isn’t quite keeping up with the curve. And for a company trying to wow us with flashy design features, they could have done better in the performance department.
Conclusion
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Wow, you really don’t like itel.” I’ve written about their phones several times before, and while many of those articles have leaned negative, it’s because I’ve been mostly disappointed with them. Here are a few of them:
The truth is, I don’t hate the company. I don’t expect a $130 phone to blow me away,no one does, but when a company starts borrowing design ideas from everywhere and tries to cover up lackluster performance with gimmicks, it leaves a bad taste. Itel is in a unique position to dominate the budget phone market, but they seem more focused on being flashy than providing genuine innovation or substantial upgrades.
It’s frustrating because I know they can do better. Their devices have potential, but they often fall short by trying to do too much without focusing on what truly matters: performance, user experience, and meaningful features.
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So, I was scrolling through Instagram the other day and came across some mind-blowing images showing how powerful Google’s Generative AI is on the new Pixel 9. These images were posted by The Verge, and I have to say, they stopped me in my tracks. They made it clear that Google’s Magic Editor is next-level stuff, and I couldn’t wait to dig deeper.
Take a look at the side-by-side image in the thumbnail. On the left, you’ve got an ordinary, quiet street, nothing exciting. But on the right? It’s been completely transformed into the aftermath of a dramatic car crash, complete with wrecked vehicles and scattered debris. This transformation was done with just a few taps using Google’s Magic Editor on the Pixel 9. It’s crazy how much of a difference this AI-powered tool can make, and it has the potential to change the way we think about editing photos.
What is Generative AI?
First things first, let’s quickly break down what Generative AI is. In simple terms, Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content based on patterns it’s learned from existing data. This includes everything from text to art, and of course, photos. In the case of Google’s Pixel 9, it means you can take a regular image and transform it in all sorts of ways, like adding objects, changing the lighting, or, as in the thumbnail, turning an empty street into a scene from a movie. The AI fills in the blanks in a way that looks natural and believable.
Now if you don’t understand it, let’s put it this way. Imagine you’re drawing, but instead of doing it yourself, you tell an incredibly talented robot what you want, and it just gets it right every time. You ask for a car crash in a peaceful scene? Boom, the robot adds a perfect one, and it looks like it was always there. *chuckles. I’m great at explaining 😉
Why Google’s Pixel 9 GenAI is a Game-Changer
I’ve seen and tried my fair share of mobile built-in editing tools over the years, but what Google is doing with the Pixel 9’s Magic Editor takes things to a whole new level. From the examples I found on Instagram, it’s clear that this isn’t just about small tweaks to brightness or filters. Google’s Generative AI can completely reshape your photos, adding new objects or even reimagining entire environments, all in a few quick steps.
Take the thumbnail again: in the original shot, it’s just a calm, quiet street. But the edited version tells a whole different story, turning that peaceful scene into something intense, the aftermath of a crash. And the most mind-blowing part? It’s not just a quick Photoshop job, the AI understands context. It knew how to position the vehicles and add debris in a way that matches the scene perfectly. You could easily mistake the edited version for a real photo of a car accident.
Why Google’s Magic Editor is So Impressive
Here’s a breakdown of what makes Google’s Magic Editor such a banger:
AI-Powered Scene Editing: The Pixel 9’s Generative AI goes beyond just touching up photos. You can change the story of an image, like in the crash scene example. The AI doesn’t just plop objects in your photo, it seamlessly integrates them into the environment, so it feels like they were always there.
Add or Remove Objects with Ease: One of the coolest features is the ability to add or remove objects at will. Let’s say you want to erase a random person from your vacation shot or add something like a rainbow to your landscape pic. Done. And when you remove something, the AI fills in the background so naturally that you’d never know anything was missing.
Quick Edits, Big Changes: Traditional editing software can take forever to get right, especially if you’re not a pro. But with the Magic Editor, it seems like you can make massive changes in a matter of seconds. Just look at the street scene example, what would take hours in Photoshop was done in a few taps with AI.
Super Easy to Use: The best part? You don’t need to be a tech guru to make these changes. From what I’ve seen in the demos and examples, Google’s Magic Editor is intuitive and user-friendly. It’s perfect for people like me who love to edit photos but don’t have the time or skills to mess with complicated software.
Natural, Realistic Results: One thing that stands out is how realistic the edits look. Sometimes, with other tools, you can tell when a photo’s been altered, the lighting’s off, or the objects don’t quite blend in. But Google’s Generative AI gets it right. The crash scene looks believable as if the wrecked car and debris were there.
The Future of GenAI
While photo editing is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Generative AI, its potential goes way beyond that. Google’s Generative AI could soon be applied to video editing, content creation, and even productivity tools. Imagine being able to edit videos, create presentations, or generate marketing visuals all from your phone, without needing to rely on heavy software. The possibilities are huge.
If you want to stay updated on the latest in tech, be sure to subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter and enable notifications. Here are more examples by The Verge:
Finding reliable solutions for computer problems can be a challenge, especially if you’re not exactly a tech ‘guru’. Now some of these tech ‘gurus’ might even extort your hard-earned cash from you for simple tasks, one guy recognised the gap and decided to fill it. Meet CircuitCure. CircuitCure steps in as a unique platform aiming to bridge the gap between DIY troubleshooting and professional repair services. And yes, it’s still growing, but it offers some interesting features that make it stand out.
Key Features
Device Diagnostics
CircuitCure’s device diagnostics feature is pretty interesting. Typically, you’d expect a tool like this to automatically scan your system and give you all the necessary details. However, due to international data protection laws, CircuitCure can’t do that. Instead, you have to run your device’s built-in diagnostics tool first. The site then reads the data from that tool, but you’ll still need to manually input some information from the task manager to complete the diagnostic process and give you recommendations afterwards. It’s not as seamless as one might hope, but it’s a necessary compromise to keep your data safe and secure.
Technician Locator
For those times when a DIY fix just won’t cut it, CircuitCure offers a Technician Locator. This feature connects you with technicians who have signed up on the site. Right now, the pool of available technicians is relatively small, but it’s a promising feature that could save you a lot of time searching for help when things go wrong.
Learning Hub
CircuitCure isn’t just about fixing problems, it’s also about learning. The Learning Hub is a highly resource packed hub with interactive tutorials, quizzes, certifications, and even multimedia content. Whether you’re looking to solve a specific issue or just want to expand your technical knowledge, this hub offers a wealth of information to help you out.
Simple Solutions for Non-Techies
One of the best things about CircuitCure is that it doesn’t just cater to tech experts. It also offers simple solutions for common problems, tailored for those who might not be as comfortable around computers. You describe the issue you’re facing, and the platform guides you through potential fixes. This is perfect for anyone who needs a quick and easy solution without getting bogged down in technical details.
Conclusion
CircuitCure isn’t perfect yet, it still needs you as a user or as a technician for the circuit to be complete. It’s a practical tool that’s still growing but already shows a lot of potential. So whether you’re looking to fix a problem yourself, find a technician, or learn more about your device, CircuitCure has something to offer.
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It’s high time we talked about this watch, in my previous article I just went on and on about the phone, but here we are. You’ve probably heard about the CMF Watch Pro 2, a new contender in the smartwatch arena that’s been making waves, and if you know Nothing that well, you’d know that the watch really made a lot of waves. Now, first things first. I don’t actually have the device in my hands. But that doesn’t mean we can’t look at what makes this smartwatch an intriguing option. Based on research and the specs available, here’s my take on the CMF Watch Pro 2.
Key Selling Points
Let’s start with what makes the CMF Watch 2 Pro stand out. First, the design is a real eye-catcher. It comes with interchangeable bezels, which adds a lot of customization potential to the mix. Whether you want a Dark Grey Curved Bezel or an Ash Grey Flat Bezel, this watch has got you covered. Plus, you can swap out the straps, too, with options ranging from liquid silicone to leather, depending on your style.
Now, if you’re thinking this bezel swapping thing is revolutionary, well. Xiaomi already did this with their S3 watch. That said, Nothing never claimed to be the first or the only one with this feature, it’s just another cool option for those who love a bit of flair in their wearable tech. But it’s worth noting so you don’t get caught up in the hype of this being something entirely new to the smartwatch scene.
The Display & UI
On the display front, the CMF Watch Pro 2 sports a 1.32’’ AMOLED Display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels at 353 PPI. With 620 nits peak brightness and a smooth 60 fps refresh rate, it generally offers sharp, vibrant colours whether you’re checking notifications or tracking your fitness. Plus, the auto-brightness feature ensures you won’t be squinting at your wrist in broad daylight.
But let’s talk about the user interface. The CMF Watch runs on a proprietary OS(just like the previous gen), which is a bit of a bummer if you’re hoping for the flexibility of something like Wear OS. However, at the price point this watch is targeting, it’s a trade-off that makes sense. You get a streamlined experience, with over 100+ signature watch faces, including dynamic and interactive options, and an array of smart features that should meet most users’ needs.
Fitness & Health Tracking
For the fitness buffs out there, the CMF Watch Two Pro comes equipped with a Smart Movement Algorithm and supports 120 sports modes with 5 smart recognition activities. You can set training goals, monitor your heart rate, and even track your menstrual cycle. The Active Score feature and 24-hour heart rate/SpO₂ monitoring are also on board, making it a solid companion for keeping tabs on your health.
One standout feature is the battery life. With a 305 mAh battery, the watch claims to offer 11 days of typical use and up to 45.8 days in power-saving mode. That’s impressive, especially for those who don’t want to be tethered to a charger every night.
Final Thoughts
As for pricing, the CMF Watch Pro 2 is positioned as a budget-friendly option in the smartwatch market for only £69 here in the UK, which makes its feature set even more appealing.
To wrap it up, while I can’t give you a hands-on verdict, the CMF Watch Pro 2 seems to be a solid contender in the budget smartwatch category. It’s got the looks, the features, and the price tag that could make it a popular choice for those not wanting to break the bank. And hey, if you’re into customizing your watch’s appearance, the bezel-swapping capability is just the cherry on top.
The title feels more like a thirst trap, but anyways, if you’ve been wondering where I’ve been lately, you’re not alone, I’ve also been wondering the same. So you might have noticed a bit of silence from my end over the past week or weeks. And no, I didn’t fall into a black hole, and no, I wasn’t abducted by aliens (although that would make a great excuse, wouldn’t it?).
So let’s get one thing straight I have no valid reason for not posting, and I decided to write a whole article about it, haha. I’d love to tell you that I’ve been busy scaling Mount Everest or coding the next big social media platform. The reality? Well to be honest, content is there, I got the ideas, but maybe I’ve just been too lazy to write them. Yep, you heard it right—sometimes the biggest challenge is getting myself to stop playing games and actually get some writing done. Who knew?
The Long-Term Inconsistency
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: my inconsistency with posting. Trust me, I get it. I used to blurt out articles faster than a high-speed internet connection, but things have changed. You see, I’m not just working on Tino Talks Tech only anymore. I now write on another blog called IBZim, and if that wasn’t enough, I’m also in the middle of planning a podcast called ZimTechTalk. So, yeah, my plate is pretty full right now and that’s not even counting my personal life, hobbies, and school.
Let’s just say my day could start with good intentions of writing an article, but before I know it, I’m knee-deep in a gaming session that somehow takes priority over everything else. Time management? Still working on it.
But here’s the thing I’m now committed to this blog, and I’m committed to you, my readers. While I can’t promise to write more than five articles a week like I used to, but I can guarantee that I’ll be writing four articles on this blog every week. That’s a promise. It might not be as much as before, but it’s all about quality over quantity, right?
Bye bye AI Blog
Now, for some bittersweet news: I’m taking down my AI blog. I launched it back in April, only to take it down during a web hosting shuffle, and then got it back up again in July. But the fact is, I couldn’t find enough time to dedicate to it amidst all my other commitments. As much as I love discovering what AI can do, it’s just not feasible right now. But our AI journey doesn’t end here. I’ll still be covering AI-related topics right here on Tino Talks Tech.
Thank you for sticking with me throughout, and I promise that while my schedule might be packed, my passion for tech and for sharing it with you remains as strong as ever.
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Google’s Gemini AI has recently rolled out some impressive updates at the Made by Google event yesterday, and they’re hard to ignore. One of the mainstream features is Gemini Live, a version designed to provide natural, hands-free conversations with your device, it’s nothing new though. It’s meant to make your digital interactions feel more like talking to a friend, with multiple voice options, just like the assistant. This new AI is also more deeply integrated into Android, offering smarter, context aware assistance and faster response times across various Google apps like Tasks, Keep and YouTube Music.
But before you get too excited like I did when I was watching the keynote, here’s a bit of a reality check: to enjoy Gemini Live, you’ll need to subscribe to Gemini Advanced, the paid version of Gemini. For those of us who’ve been enjoying the Google Assistant for free, this feels a bit like being told that the air we breathe is now subscription-based. Oh and during the live demo, Gemini failed twice before they had to switch devices and btw they were using Galaxy 24 Ultras, so this doesn’t look good for both Google and Samsung.
So, Google, here’s the deal if you keep putting basic features behind a paywall, I might just switch to the other side.
P.S. Subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter for more tech talk especially if you want to see whether I actually leap to the other side, I’m not tho! 😅
Today, I’m looking at NVIDIA’s GeForce Now, a cloud gaming service that aims to reshape how we play games and yes, it’s similar to that from Xbox. In my article about Xbox Cloud Gaming, I highlighted how it’s revolutionizing gaming for those without consoles or high-end PCs. Now, let’s see how GeForce Now compares.
What is NVIDIA’s GeForce Now?
NVIDIA’s GeForce Now is a cloud gaming platform that allows you to stream games you own from various digital storefronts, which are Steam, Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, and Xbox. Unlike traditional gaming setups that require high end hardware, GeForce Now uses NVIDIA’s powerful servers to deliver high quality gaming experiences directly to your device. Whether you’re using a Windows PC, Mac, smartphone, or tablet, as long as you have a stable internet connection, you’re ready to game. I hate to take us back a little but the Xbox Cloud Gaming is now available on Amazon Fire sticks, crazy right? Anyways back to our main topic.
Game Selection and Flexibility
One of the standout features of the GeForce Now is its extensive game library. Unlike Xbox Cloud Gaming, which offers a curated selection of Xbox titles, GeForce Now allows you to access your existing game libraries from multiple platforms. This means you can play the games you already own without any additional purchases. The flexibility to connect various accounts and play your existing games in one place is a massive W.
In my Xbox Cloud Gaming article, I mentioned how Xbox’s service offers console-quality gaming without needing the actual hardware. Similarly, GeForce Now provides high-quality gaming without powerful local hardware, allowing seamless gameplay across devices.
Pricing and Accessibility
NVIDIA’s GeForce Now offers both free and paid membership options. The free tier allows you to play games with some limitations, such as shorter session lengths and access to standard servers, oh and you also watch ads while you’re in queue to play your game, but hey, it’s nothing too bad. The paid membership, GeForce Now Priority (there’s also Ultimate but we won’t talk about it for now), provides extended session lengths, priority access to premium servers, and support for RTX graphics features, which enhance the gaming experience with ray tracing and AI-powered DLSS technology. This tiered approach makes GeForce Now accessible to a broader audience, allowing gamers to choose the plan that best fits their needs and budget, and the GeForce Now Priority costs £9.99 and it’s 50% off when you purchase for the first time.
Play Anywhere, Anytime
In my Xbox Cloud Gaming article, I gave great emphasis on the flexibility of playing on various devices, from smartphones to smart TVs and now the fire stick. GeForce Now’s cloud-based nature means you can also play your favourite games anywhere, anytime, without the need for powerful local hardware. Plus, the service supports various controllers, making it easy to find a setup that works for you.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Extensive Game Library: Access to a wide range of games from various platforms without additional purchases.
Free and Paid Options: Flexibility to choose between a free tier or a premium experience.
Cross-Platform Access: Play games across multiple devices, from PCs to smartphones.
Powerful Graphics: Support for RTX graphics with ray tracing and DLSS for enhanced visuals (with paid memberships).
Account Integration: Connect multiple accounts and have all your games in one place.
Cons:
Internet Dependency: Requires a fast and stable internet connection for optimal performance just like the Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Limited Free Tier: Free membership comes with limitations such as shorter session lengths.
Game Availability: Not all games are supported on GeForce Now.
Occasional Wait Times: Free users might experience wait times during peak hours.
Conclusion
NVIDIA’s GeForce Now is an excellent option for gamers looking for flexibility and access to their existing game libraries across multiple devices. Its ability to integrate games from various platforms, paired with powerful streaming technology, makes it a compelling choice for many. However, the reliance on a stable internet connection and the cost of premium features might be a consideration for some.
What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter for more tech insights. Enable notifications to stay updated with the latest posts from Tino Talks Tech!
