I’m thrilled to announce that the Tino Talks Tech AI blog is making a grand comeback after a brief hiatus! It’s been an exciting period of tweaking behind the scenes, and I couldn’t be more excited to unveil what’s next.
What’s New?
First things first: we’ve leveled up! Say hello to the upgraded AI companion, GPT-4o. Yes, you heard that right—we’ve moved beyond GPT-4 Turbo to capture the enhanced capabilities of GPT-4o. Get ready for even more insightful, creative, and thought-provoking content generated by this cutting-edge AI language model.
Why the Upgrade?
Switching to GPT-4o was inevitable. GPT-4o is dubbed as OpenAI’s smartest and fastest model yet, so why not?. Whether it’s writing detailed articles, insightful thought pieces, or playful tech humor, this upgrade ensures that this AI-generated content remains at the forefront of innovation.
What to Expect?
The AI blog continues to be a playground of experimentation. From analyzing the latest tech trends to envisioning the future of artificial intelligence, each article is crafted to provoke thought and spark curiosity. Plus, we still have the visual storytelling with enhanced capabilities from models like Dall-E 3 for stunning visuals that complement the AI-generated prose.
Join the Journey
I invite each of you to join us (me and my model friends) on this renewed adventure. Explore the AI blog, engage with the content, and share your thoughts. Your feedback fuels our exploration into what’s possible with AI and technology blogging.
Stay Tuned
Buckle up as we embark on this exciting ride once again! The AI writers are back on stage, armed with GPT-4o and a whole lot of creativity. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and entertained.
Check out the revived AI blog here and let’s continue pushing the boundaries of tech and AI together.
Samsung’s recent Galaxy Unpacked event introduced us to the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Buds, two new additions to the company’s lineup of smart devices. However, the design choices for these products have sparked a debate among tech enthusiasts and consumers alike. Samsung, a giant in the tech industry, has consistently been at the forefront of innovation for as long as I can remember. However, the latest Samsung devices, from the Galaxy Watch Ultra to the new Galaxy Buds, and even the S24 that was released earlier this year bear a striking resemblance to Apple’s counterparts.
A Familiar Looking Watch: Galaxy Watch Ultra
When Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Watch Ultra, the immediate reaction was a collective double-take. The watch bears an uncanny resemblance to the Apple Watch Ultra and not to mention that it’s called the Galaxy Watch ‘Ultra’. The similarities aren’t just in the rectangular face and the digital crown but extend to the overall aesthetic and even the orange band. This has led many to question whether Samsung is losing its unique identity in favor of mirroring Apple’s designs.
The problem isn’t just that the Galaxy Watch Ultra looks similar; it’s that it looks almost identical. This design choice has left fans and critics wondering why Samsung, known for its bold and often groundbreaking designs, would choose to emulate a competitor so closely, and that competitor being Apple who they have been mocking for as long as I can remember.
Galaxy Buds: The New AirPods Pro?
Samsung’s new Galaxy Buds also draw heavy inspiration from Apple’s AirPods Pro. The new design features a sleek, elongated stem and a more compact case, almost indistinguishable from the AirPods Pro at first glance. While borrowing design elements from successful products isn’t new in tech, the extent to which Samsung has done this is surprising. Although I might say that the new Galaxy Buds look better than the AirPods Pro.
Looking at their previous generation buds, you can clearly see how big of a leap this was for Samsung. Again, it’s not about the Galaxy Buds being different but about them being too similar. This move seems like a step back for a company that once prided itself on setting trends rather than following them. Following the unpacked event, one creator on X (formerly known as Twitter) even posted a picture of the iPhone 15 Pro Max, humorously claiming it was a new leak of the S25 Ultra. This joke hit a little too close to home for many, reflecting the growing sentiment that Samsung’s design strategy is becoming more derivative.
The S24
This isn’t the first time Samsung has faced such criticism. The launch of the Galaxy S24 fueled the fire. Many creators and fans pointed out that the S24 looks eerily similar to the base model iPhone 15. I for one also saw how the S24’s design was very similar to that of the iPhone . The resemblance is so stark that jokes quickly spread across social media.
When the S24 was launched, the immediate reaction was a series of memes and comments about it being the new iPhone. While it’s true that phone designs often converge on similar aesthetics, the S24’s resemblance to the iPhone goes beyond mere coincidence.
Other manufacturers have also ‘borrowed’ elements from Apple, but they’ve managed to maintain their distinctiveness. Take Nothing’s Phone 2, for example. It drew some criticism for looking like an iPhone 14 Pro Max, with Mrwhosetheboss even calling it a “one-on-one carbon copy.” However, even in this case, Nothing managed to infuse its own unique style and brand ethos into the design.
Conclusion
So, where does Samsung go from here? Are we getting an S25 Ultra that looks exactly like an iPhone, well… never. On a serious note, innovation has always been Samsung’s strong suit, and leaning too heavily into imitation could undermine this strength. After all, it’s the unique vision and daring innovation that have made Samsung a household name in the first place.
For more insights on the latest in tech and to stay updated with all things Samsung, keep reading Tino Talks Tech!
The move towards EVs is a global trend, but how’s it shaping up in our neck of the woods? Today we’re looking at how the Zimbabwean market is taking this move towards EVs. Let’s break it down.
The Push for Electric Vehicles in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is slowly gearing up to join the global EV revolution. The government has introduced a draft electric vehicle policy aiming to cut down on the massive fuel import bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With a subsidy plan worth about $366.7 million until 2030, alongside tax incentives, they’re trying to make EVs more appealing.
However, let’s be real – the adoption of EVs here faces significant challenges. From load shedding to high costs, and a community deeply attached to their combustion engines, there’s a lot to consider.
Load Shedding and Power Supply Issues
One of the biggest hurdles for EVs in Zimbabwe is the unreliable power supply. Frequent load shedding means that ensuring a consistent power supply for EV charging is tough. Zimbabwe generates less electricity than it consumes, leading to load shedding to manage the shortfall. For EV owners, the fear of not being able to charge their vehicles consistently is a major deterrent.
Economic Constraints
Another significant barrier is the high cost of EVs. Most Zimbabweans purchase vehicles for under $10,000, while a new EV costs between $15,000 and $20,000. Even with subsidies, these prices are out of reach for many. Additionally, the infrastructure to support EVs, like charging stations, is still developing, adding to the overall expense.
Zimbabwe’s economic situation, marked by high inflation and limited access to foreign currency, exacerbates this issue. Both individuals and the government face difficulties in investing heavily in EV technology and infrastructure.
Cultural Reluctance
The Zimbabwean community is deeply rooted in the use of combustion engine vehicles. There’s a general reluctance to switch to EVs, partly due to perceptions about their performance and costs. Many believe that EVs are expensive to maintain and may not be up to the task of handling long distances or rough terrains often encountered in Zimbabwe.
Infrastructure Challenges
The infrastructure for supporting EVs in Zimbabwe is still in its infancy. Poor road conditions in many areas can be challenging for EVs, which typically have lower ground clearance than traditional vehicles. Moreover, the lack of charging stations, especially in urban areas, poses a significant challenge.
Despite these hurdles, some progress is being made. The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has registered a few EVs, and there’s an effort to set up more charging stations across the country. For example, Zuva Petroleum is partnering with local startups to roll out charging stations at their fuel garages.
Government and Private Sector Initiatives
The government has begun adding EVs to its vehicle fleet to promote uptake. The Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED) has already included 14 EVs, used at the CMED driving school and as shuttle cars at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
Private companies are also gearing up for the EV boom. Vaya, a ride-hailing service owned by our largest telecommunication company Econet Wireless, launched in 2020, offers EVs as part of a premium service for passenger and logistical services.
The Road Ahead
While there are concerted efforts by the government and private sectors to promote EV adoption, significant challenges remain. Addressing power reliability, reducing costs, changing public perceptions, and improving infrastructure are crucial steps that need to be taken to make EVs a viable option for the average Zimbabwean.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe is on the brink of an EV revolution, but it’s clear that we have a long road ahead. With the right policies, investments, innovations, and shifts in public perception, electric vehicles can become a feasible and sustainable option for many Zimbabweans. For now, we watch and wait as the nation takes these tentative but hopeful steps towards a greener future.
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Feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts or questions about EVs in Zimbabwe. I’d love to hear from you!
I’ve been talking about this phone non-stop for the past few days, and for good reason. The CMF Phone 1 is here, and it’s already making waves with its impressive specs and unbelievable pricing.
Stellar Specs
Performance
First off, the CMF Phone 1 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 5G processor. This 8-core beast, clocking up to 2.5 GHz, is built on the advanced 4nm TSMC process. What does this mean? In simple terms, it’s fast, efficient, and ready to handle whatever you throw at it on a day-to-day basis. Although it might not provide the best gaming experience on the market, we can safely say that it offers the best within it’s price point and topping that with Nothing’s low-lag game mode, this phone is great for gaming, only when you use graphical settings it supports.
Memory and Storage
You’re looking at 16 GB of RAM (8 GB + 8 GB RAM booster). Yes, you read that right. With this kind of memory, multitasking is kinda like a breeze, and your apps will run smoother than ever. Although there is a bit of a lag but we can’t blame the phone here, it’s already set to outperform it’s counterparts. For storage, the base model comes with 128 GB, but if you need more, there’s a 256 GB version as well. Both are priced incredibly well at £209 and £239 respectively. And if that’s not enough, you can expand the storage up to a whopping 2 TB via a microSD card. So, no more worrying about running out of space.
Stunning Display
The phone features a stunning 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. This means everything from scrolling through social media to watching videos will feel buttery smooth. And with a peak brightness of 2000 nits, you’ll have no trouble using your phone even in bright sunlight, although it has been noted that this peak brightness can only be attained in ‘specific’ situations otherwise the most you can squeeze out is 1200 nits which is still pretty solid.
Camera Capabilities
For all you photography enthusiasts, the CMF Phone 1 sports a 50 MP Sony rear camera. And again, it’s not something you could expect to wow you every time you take a picture but it still takes decent shots. Whether it’s day or night, your photos will come out sharp and vibrant thanks to the Ultra XDR and AI Vivid Mode. On the front, there’s a 16 MP camera for selfies that’ll make you look your best.
Battery Life
Great battery life has been consistent with Nothing phones ever since the Phone 2 so you won’t get disappointed with this one as well. Worried about battery life? Don’t be. The CMF Phone 1 packs a 5000 mAh battery that promises more than 10 hours of screen on time, what more would you want?. So, binge-watch your favorite series without constantly hunting for a charger. Oh and the charging, yes the phone doesn’t have any fancy wireless charging capabilities just like the Phone 2a but it still comes with a decent wired charging speed of 33W.
Software and OS
Running on Nothing OS 2.6 powered by Android 14, the phone delivers a clean and user-friendly experience. It’s fast, intuitive, and packed with useful features. Plus, you get 2 years of major software updates and 3 years of security patch updates, which is quite reasonable at this price point.
Design and Accessories
Now, let’s talk design. The CMF Phone 1 is all about adaptability and this has been one of their biggest marketing points for the device. It comes with interchangeable back covers that cost just £29. You can switch up the look of your phone whenever you feel like it. There’s also a £19 lanyard, a £19 stand, and a £19 wallet that screws onto the phone. And get this – the cases and wallets are made from vegan leather, giving them a premium feel without the premium price tag.
IP Rating
One thing to note is the phone’s IPX2 rating. This means it has minimal water and dust resistance due to its form factor. So, while it’s fine for everyday use, don’t go dunking it in water.
Conclusion
Tech reviewer Mrwhosetheboss called the CMF Phone 1 a game changer. He mentioned that it reminds him of a term he learned in India called “jugaad.” Jugaad is a Hindi word that refers to a flexible approach to problem-solving that uses limited resources in an innovative way. It perfectly describes the CMF Phone 1 – a device that delivers top-tier specs and features at a fraction of the cost.
In conclusion, the CMF Phone 1 is setting a new standard for budget smartphones. With its powerful specs, stunning display, excellent cameras, and versatile design, it’s hard to believe it’s priced so affordably. If you’re in the market for a new phone, the CMF Phone 1 should be at the top of your list.
Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more updates and reviews. Also, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below and share this post with your friends. Let’s spread the word about this amazing device!
As we all anticipate the next big thing, Nothing is gearing up to introduce its CMF Phone 1 under its affordable CMF sub-brand. I previously wrote an article about it but I didn’t have much information, well now I do since they did their 9-day teaser video series about the phone. Slated for a grand reveal on July 8th, this new device promises to shake up the market with unique features and an emphasis on customization.
Customizability
One of the most intriguing aspects of the CMF Phone 1 is its focus on customizability. Teasers from Nothing suggest that this phone will feature a unique dial on one of its bottom corners, which can be used to attach accessories. This dial is reminiscent of the aluminum alloy dial on the CMF Buds, which allows a lanyard to be attached to the earbuds’ charging case.
The light-up glyphs, a standout feature of the Nothing Phone 1, Phone 2 and Phone 2a, won’t be making an appearance here. Instead, the CMF Phone 1 will have its own flair with the rotating dial that can accommodate various attachments. These could include a lanyard mount, a folding kickstand, and potentially other functional add-ons. This innovation hints a feeling whereby your phone isn’t just a static piece of tech but a versatile tool tailored to your needs.
Easy Repair
In another nod to user convenience, the CMF Phone 1 will feature easily accessible screws and a tiny screwdriver, continuing the brand’s aesthetic and practical theme. This design choice suggests the phone will have an easily removable rear panel, which can be swapped out for different colors or functional enhancements. The colors teased so far include black, blue, light green, and orange, giving users a range of options to personalize their devices.
This modular approach might also imply that users could swap out the rear panel to add a larger battery, similar to the Mophie Juice Pack or Motorola’s Moto Mods. Alternatively, it could allow for the addition of a wallet feature to hold credit and ID cards. While Nothing hasn’t confirmed if this will extend to internal components like the battery, the emphasis seems to be on visual and functional customization.
The Hardware Specs
Image credit: Nothing
While Nothing has been tight-lipped about the exact hardware specifications, leaks and rumors provide some clues. The CMF Phone 1 is expected to be an affordable yet capable device, aligning with the CMF brand’s mission to offer quality tech at a lower price point. Here’s what we might expect based on industry trends and the features of Nothing’s previous models:
Display
Size: 6.67 inches
Type: Full-HD+ AMOLED
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Processor
MediaTek Dimensity 7300
Battery
Capacity: 5000 mAh
Charging: Fast charging support (exact specifications not confirmed)
Operating System
Nothing OS (based on Android 14)
Updates: 2 major Android updates and 3 years of security patches
Camera
Rear: Specific details not confirmed yet
Front: Specific details not confirmed yet
Customization
Dial: Can attach accessories such as a lanyard or a folding kickstand, similar to the CMF Buds’ dial.
Swappable Rear Panel: Available in black, blue, light green, and orange colorways. May allow for additional functionalities like attaching a battery pack or a wallet.
Repairability: Easy access to the rear panel with a tiny screwdriver matching the brand’s aesthetic, hinting at potential for easy repairs or customizations.
While much of the specific hardware details remain under wraps, the customization options and the focus on easy repairs are key highlights for the CMF Phone 1.
Accessories and Additional Devices
Alongside the CMF Phone 1, Nothing is also set to launch the CMF Buds Pro 2 and the CMF Watch Pro 2. The CMF Buds Pro 2 will be a follow-up to the successful CMF Buds Pro, offering improved sound quality and perhaps new features like enhanced noise cancellation. The CMF Watch Pro 2 is expected to continue using a proprietary OS, similar to its predecessor, focusing on seamless integration with other CMF and Nothing devices.
The Big Reveal
Mark your calendars for July 8th at 5 AM ET. Nothing’s “Community Update” event will not only showcase these new devices but also provide insights into the company’s vision for the future. Will the CMF Phone 1 set a new standard for affordable smartphones? Will its customizable features resonate with consumers looking for more than just a generic handset? Let’s find about to find that.
Stay tuned to Tino Talks Tech for the latest updates and in-depth reviews of the CMF Phone 1 and other groundbreaking tech. Don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter, hit the notification bell, and share your thoughts in the comments below!
Remember when Threads burst onto the scene and everyone thought it was going to be the next big thing? Meta, the tech giant behind Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram, seemed to have another hit on their hands, well only to those who chose to ignore the truth. The app was supposed to revolutionize text-based conversations, offering a fresh alternative to the chaotic feeds of Twitter (now known as X) specifically. For a brief moment, many thought that Threads was going to do just that. But then, reality set in.
The Hype
At first, Threads was the talk of the town. It rode in on the wave of Meta’s massive user base, promising a more intimate and meaningful way to connect. The idea was simple yet appealing: threaded conversations that allowed for deeper, more organized discussions. It was a breath of fresh air in the noisy world of social media, and people were curious. Downloads skyrocketed, and it felt like everyone was talking about Threads. With it’s seamless integration with one of Meta’s biggest platforms, Instagram, Threads seemed like it had the potential as just being another part of Instagram, not as it’s own independent platform.
The Fade Out
But, as with many things that start with a bang, Threads couldn’t keep the momentum going. The surge of interest began to fade away. Users who were once excited about the platform started to drift away, going back to their normal lives on Instagram. Engagement plummeted, and the app started to feel like a ghost town and it still feels like one. Even the biggest accounts on Threads, which you’d expect to have massive followings, remained surprisingly small compared to their Instagram or Twitter counterparts. The spark just didn’t catch on.
So with this decline in activity, one of it’s biggest hits came. The influencers and celebrities who flocked to Threads early on didn’t see the same follower numbers they enjoyed on other platforms. For example, a major celebrity who might have millions of followers on Instagram only managed to pull in a fraction of that on Threads. This stark difference highlighted a major issue: Threads wasn’t and still isn’t resonating with users in the way Meta had hoped. To prove this, here are screenshots of Mark Zuckerberg’s accounts on Threads and Instagram.
Mark Zuckerberg on InstagramMark Zuckerberg on Threads
The Current State
Fast forward to today, and it’s clear that Threads is in trouble. User engagement is practically non-existent. Conversations that once had potential are now met with crickets. The lack of unique features and compelling reasons to stick around has led many to abandon ship. Without significant updates or innovations, Threads is struggling to stay relevant in an already crowded social media landscape.
Conclusion
Threads came in hot but fizzled out just as quickly. The app’s failure to build and maintain a large, engaged user base has left it teetering on the edge of obscurity. The biggest reason that I believe to have caused this is that this app was made to be some alternative from X (Twitter) but Meta’s biggest mistake was that they believed they were capable of doing this, I mean just imagine someone making a knock-off version of Facebook, who’d use it? Noone. While it’s not completely dead yet, it’s certainly on life support. Unless Meta can pull off some major changes, Threads might soon be a footnote in the history of social media, another example of what could have been.
So, is Threads dead? Not officially, but it’s definitely not looking good. It’s a cautionary tale of how even the biggest companies can stumble in the ever-evolving world of social media. Only time will tell if Threads can make a comeback or if it’s destined to fade into obscurity.
Big news from Netflix – they’re reportedly considering a completely free, ad-supported service. Here’s what we know:
Key Features and Details
Ad-Supported: The free tier will be funded by advertisements, similar to many other streaming services. This makes it accessible to more users who might not be willing to pay for a subscription.
Regional Availability: Initially, this free tier might only be available in Europe and Asia. Netflix is focusing on these markets as it has already reached saturation in the U.S.
Previous Tests: Netflix previously tested a similar service in Kenya, where users could stream without providing payment information. The results from this test have likely informed their current strategy.
No Subscription Fee: Unlike the current ad-supported plans which still require a subscription fee, this new tier would be entirely free to use, albeit with ads.
What This Means
Netflix’s move to introduce a free tier is a strategic one to expand its user base and tap into markets where paid subscriptions are less feasible. It offers a win-win scenario for both users and Netflix – users get free content, and Netflix benefits from ad revenue and increased viewer numbers.
If you’re waiting to see the Pixel 9, Pixel Watch 3, or other new Google hardware, mark your calendars for August 13th. Google has announced an in-person “Made by Google” event where they’ll showcase the best of Google AI, Android 15, and the Pixel portfolio. The keynote will take place at 10AM PT / 1PM ET as reported by The Verge.
Leaked Designs
After the video which was released by Google on their socials, we’re now definitely sure that what we saw in the leaks is true. The Pixel 9 series has been leaked online, revealing significant design changes. The new lineup includes:
Pixel 9: 6.2-inch display.
Pixel 9 Pro: 6.2-inch display.
Pixel 9 XL: 6.7-inch display.
Leaked images show a transition from the horizontal camera bar to a more traditional camera island with three cameras. But honestly, I prefer the camera bar more. The series is expected to feature a 120Hz refresh rate across all models and be powered by the new Tensor G4 chipset.
CMF Buds Pro 2: Successors to the CMF Buds Pro, expected to offer enhanced sound quality and active noise cancellation.
CMF Watch 2: Following the original CMF Watch, likely to run on a proprietary OS with improved health tracking and battery life.
CMF Phone 1: Featuring a design with a repairability focus, hinted by a picture of a screwdriver posted by Nothing. It’s expected to have a unique dial at the bottom corner.
These devices will be announced during Nothing’s Community Keynote on July 8th.
Android 15 Release
Alongside the Pixel 9 series, Android 15 will also be launched. The beta version is already available on Pixel 7 and later models, as well as some third-party Android smartphones. Key features(for now) include:
System-Wide Toggles: For keyboard vibration and haptic feedback.
Partial Screen Recording: Record individual apps. (Already available on Pixel devices.)
Enhanced Bluetooth Tile: Improved device management.
Foldable Optimization: Better multitasking on foldable devices.
Power Efficiency: New thermal thresholds and optimization APIs.
Stay tuned for detailed reviews and updates after the official announcements. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter and enable notifications to stay up-to-date with the latest tech news.
The buzz around Nothing’s new CMF brand devices is growing, and I’m here to break down everything we know so far. While information is still scarce, some intriguing details have emerged that are worth going over.
Upcoming Devices Under the CMF Brand
Nothing is gearing up to launch several exciting devices under their new CMF brand. The devices are:
CMF Buds Pro 2
CMF Watch 2
CMF Phone 1
CMF Buds Pro 2
The CMF Buds Pro 2 are the successors to the CMF Buds Pro, rather than the more affordable CMF Buds. Given the performance and features of the first CMF Buds Pro, we can expect the CMF Buds Pro 2 to deliver even better sound quality, active noise cancellation, and improved battery life. These earbuds are likely to continue with the sleek, minimalist design that CMF by Nothing is known for, providing a premium listening experience at a competitive price. And remember, if you want the transparent and a more premium feel, there’s always the Ear lineup.
CMF Watch 2
The CMF Watch 2 follows the original CMF Watch and is expected to come with notable improvements. The first CMF Watch ran on a proprietary OS, and it’s likely that the CMF Watch 2 will continue this trend. Features may include enhanced health tracking, longer battery life, and seamless integration with other Nothing devices and also other android phones which support Fast Pair.
CMF Phone 1
The CMF Phone 1 is perhaps the most intriguing and hyped of the upcoming devices. Here’s what we know as of now:
Repairability: Nothing recently posted a picture of a screwdriver on their socials, teasing that the CMF Phone 1 might be designed with ease of repair in mind. This could be a game changer in an industry where repairability is often sacrificed for design.
Unique Design Feature: Nothing also teased an image of a dial located at one of the phone’s bottom corners, presumably the right one. This unusual feature could serve various purposes, from volume control to custom shortcuts, adding a unique twist to the user experience.
Announcement Date
All these devices are expected to be announced during Nothing’s Community Update on July 8th. This event is highly anticipated, as it will give us a first look at the new CMF brand’s offerings. Given Nothing’s penchant for innovative design and user-centric features, the keynote promises to be an exciting reveal.
Conclusion
Nothing’s new CMF brand is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the tech landscape. With innovative design cues, a focus on repairability, and intriguing new features, these devices could set new standards in their respective categories. The upcoming update on July 8th will provide more clarity and hopefully, answer all our burning questions.
Stay tuned to Tino Talks Tech for updates on Nothing’s CMF brand devices. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and enable notifications so you never miss out on the latest tech news and reviews!
Xbox Cloud Gaming, is it a game-changer? Yes. Is it for everyone? No. Today we’re looking at Xbox’s new Cloud gaming feature. This feature is aiming at revolutionalising the way people play games, especially for those who don’t own consoles or high-end gaming PCs. Here’s all you need to know.
What is Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Xbox Cloud Gaming, also known as xCloud, is a part of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and that’s why I’ve already said it’s not for everyone. Anyways, It allows you to stream and play a selection of Xbox games on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. Yep, smart TVs. This means you can enjoy console-quality gaming without needing the actual hardware. As long as you have a stable internet connection and a supported controller, you’re good to go.
Game Selection
While Xbox Cloud Gaming offers a smaller selection of games compared to the full Game Pass library, the titles available are top-notch at least for my taste. You get access to a variety of genres and popular games that keep the excitement alive. Plus, since it’s part of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, existing subscribers get this feature at no additional cost. Which is clearly out of context since ‘existing subscribers’ are already console or PC gamers. However if you happen to have an Xbox Game Pass subscription for no reason, this makes it an excellent deal for you.
Bad joke right there 🙁
Play Anywhere, Anytime
One of the most significant advantages of Xbox Cloud Gaming is the flexibility it offers. Imagine playing console games on your phone while commuting or on your smart TV without needing an Xbox. And just to clarify, I didn’t say you can play games on your TV while commuting, don’t get me wrong there. So now if you’re wondering how these work, all you need is the Xbox Game Pass app if it’s available on your TV and your TV also needs to be able to connect to a controller, for example Samsung smart TVs that can connect to a controller and have the Game Pass app available are perfect for this. You just need a supported controller like Xbox, PlayStation, or Amazon Luna to get started.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Accessibility: Play Xbox games on various devices without needing a console or gaming PC.
Convenience: Stream games directly to your phone, tablet, or smart TV.
Part of Game Pass Ultimate: If you already have the subscription, there’s no extra cost.
High-Quality Games: Access to a curated selection of popular and high-quality games.
Flexibility: Play anywhere with a stable internet connection and a compatible controller.
Cons:
Limited Game Selection: Smaller library compared to the full Game Pass.
Internet Dependency: Requires a strong and stable internet connection for smooth gameplay.
Device Compatibility: Not all devices and smart TVs support the Game Pass app or controllers.
Controller Requirement: Needs a compatible controller for the best experience. And even for those PC games, the keyboard and mouse probably won’t work.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 on Game Pass
Drifting away from our main topic, I mean we’re done here anyway. So there’s exciting news for Call of Duty fans! The new Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is set to be part of the Game Pass lineup. This means it might also come to cloud gaming, but it wouldn’t hurt to take note of the games size and system requirements so the chances are pretty slim. But just imagine the convenience of diving into intense multiplayer matches or gripping single-player campaigns without being tied to a console or gaming PC, and then keep on imagining.
Conclusion
Wrapping up, Xbox Cloud Gaming is a fantastic option for gamers who don’t have access to consoles or high-end PCs but are willing to pay for it monthly. It provides a flexible and convenient way to enjoy high-quality games on various devices. While the game selection is smaller, the available titles are impressive and offer great value.
What are your thoughts? Share what you think in the comments below. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more tech updates. If you haven’t yet, enable notifications so you never miss out on the latest posts from Tino Talks Tech!
