The special edition of the Motorola Edge 30 Fusion has been unveiled at the Pantone Color of the Year 2023 Reveal Event. It makes its North American debut as the year draws to an end.
The most spectacular thing about the device is that Motorola is the only OEM to offer a phone that features the Pantone Color of the Year 2023. Interestingly, the company is involved in a multi-year partnership with Pantone in the smartphone segment.
The Edge 30 Fusion was previously launched in select European and Latin American countries.
Good design
The device blends performance and beauty with flagship-level features. It is breathtakingly slim, and the design is sophisticated as it boasts Viva Magenta. That’s the new Pantone Color of the Year 2023.
This special edition Motorola Edge 30 Fusion is paired with the new Moto Buds 600 ANC in Pantone to create a striking pair and a new wardrobe staple.
Motorola Edge 30 Fusion key specs
The display is 6.55 excellent for viewing your favorite entertainment n “fluid vibrance from edge to edge.” Also, the refresh rate is 144 Hz contributing to smoother streaming, scrolling, and gaming. It performs faster too.
It arrives pOLED & HYDRO+ that offers deeper blacks, sharper details, and infinite contrast. The cinema-quality Dolby Atmos sound is great for improved sound. In addition, the battery power is 4400 mAh able to sustain the device for the day.
You can find more materials regarding the device online.
The Motorola Edge 30 Fusion is chosen for its balance of performance and beauty. Furthermore, users can find inspiration for everyday adventures as it packs flagship-level performances
Price & availability
The device will be available in the U.S. starting December 12. Lastly, availability is exclusive to Motorola.com as a GSM unlocked device for $799.99. It will also be available in Lazuli Blue for $699.99.
The ZERO 5G 2023 smartphone has been introduced by Infinix, and it arrives with powerful performance upgrades and massive storage capabilities.
The next-gen features offer capacity for uninterrupted use and gaming experiences. The device is super fast, making users to experience new horizons as it leads the pack.
ZERO 5G 2023 offers great speed
The speed is commendable and made possible as the device is the first to make use of the MediaTek Dimensity 1080 6nm 5G chipset. Infinix reveals that there are two ARM Cortex-A78 processors clocked up to 2.6GHz.
This much performance should be sufficient for most basic users and easily handles downloading files, browsing, social media, or streaming. In addition, the device maintains lower power consumption as it aggregates with nearby 4G networks and Wi-Fi to increase bandwidth.
Attractive display
The ZERO 5G 2023 comes with a 6.78 FHD display that’s massive enough for everything Android users need. The bold color enhancement comes with peak brightness of 500 nits. The 240Hz sample rate and 120Hz super fluid refresh rate work to create dynamic visuals.
Users can take advantage of different types screen rate options, and they can also switch between zooming and browsing. Switching between different refresh rates help users to reduce power consumption on their mobile phone.
Camera features
The ZERO 5G 2023 boasts a 50MP AI camera, 2MP depth camera, and another 2MP micro camera. Users can create high quality photos with the Infinix smartphone. Low light shots are reported to possible with amazing results.
There’s also the Film Mode feature to make video editing a breeze. You can be assured this smartphone is able to generate fuller colors and vibrancy. The amazing thing is that it is equipped with 960 fps slow motion technology makes for amazing slow motion technology.
Other key features
Battery: 5000mAh
UI: XOS 12
Engine: Erdal Engine 3.0
AI Gallery
Pricing
The Infinix ZERO 5G 2023 costs is estimated at $239. It arrives in Pearly White, Coral Orange, and Submariner Black.
Android announced new features to wow users as they prepare for the new year. The new features will also be useful during the upcoming holidays. Users will be able to express memories in a better way and enjoy the connections that come with the holiday.
The features
Users can add holiday cheer to photos and messages: Google Photos has changed so users can create shareable collages of their favorite pictures and share them with friends and family. You will enjoy sharing your photo-worthy moments as you pick your photos select the design and also rearrange the layout by making use of simple drag-and-drop controls.
Access your favorite content: It is now easy to find or catch up with your favorite content. Do it your own way. There’s a new Reading mode on Android that creates a good reading experience that is useful for those who are blind, have low vision, or are dyslexic. The setting has among other things a text-to-speech function with speed control. In addition to that, the user can easily access content with YouTube’s new home screen search widget. You can try your Google TV app which makes it easy to find movies and shows from streaming services.
Do more on the go: For example, you could lock, unlock and turn on a compatible car using just your phone. The digital car key makes that possible. It is also possible to share your digital car keys with your loved ones. This is accessible on Pixel and iPhone and will be coming soon to selected Android phones. From the digital wallet app, you can view and change who has access to your car.
These are just three great ways to enjoy the new features of Android. Use them to express memories, magic, and connections that come with the holiday seasons. For a better understanding, and to learn about other features, check out the Android updatespage.
Minimalistic wallets are a going trend. Gone are the days of the giant tri-fold wallets of our forefathers. Those bulky back pocket bulges have given way to a new generation that carries just the necessities: a few cards, ID, and maybe some cash.
Ekster has been at the forefront of this movement for years. The company was nice enough to let us test out its three most popular models: the Aluminum Cardholder, the Senate Cardholder, and the Parliament Wallet. Each shares a common design philosophy but has its own unique feature set.
The Shared DNA
All these wallets revolve around Ekster’s proprietary cardholder system. This plastic sleeve allows for your favorite payment cards to live packed away in this cavity. But when you need them, there’s a small tabbed lever in the bottom corner of each wallet.
This tab triggers the spring system in the cardholder to push the cards out of the top of the unit in a flared array. It’s very similar to how you’d fan a deck of playing cards to see multiple ones at a time. The Ekster system works great to have quick access to the needed card every time.
Each also has RFID protection. This shielding makes sure your cards are always secure while in the cardholder mechanism. This is a great option to make sure your data is safe while in your pocket.
Aluminum Cardholder
The name is pretty literal on this one. The Aluminum Cardholder is a sleek metal shell with Ekster’s card system in the center. The edge of one side is etched with the brand name and at the bottom, you have the card trigger. The rest is just smooth uninterrupted aluminum.
The choice of this metal makes the Aluminum Cardholder the easiest to toss in your pocket of the three Eksters. It’s lightweight and slim. You will mostly forget it exists while carrying it. Which is awesome. Many minimalistic wallets make this claim, but once you pack it with your cards it’s just another wallet. The Aluminum Cardholder understood the assignment and nailed it.
So what’s with the band? Well, just because it nails pocketability doesn’t mean it’s not extendable. The elastic band in some form is an accessory builder for all these wallets. On the Aluminum Cardholder, it can be a simple place to hold cash, or with the extension plate, you can stash a few more cards on the outside of the wallet.
That’s where I’ve landed. I have around six cards in the cardholder and another five in the backplate. It’s become a great combo to get the slim fit of the Aluminum Cardholder and still house my driver’s license, insurance cards, and other credit cards on the outside.
Using the Aluminum Cardholder has been great. I had a larger slim wallet, but this has carried me even further down that path. The cardholder worked without issue carrying my cards and ejected as expected every time.
Senate Cardholder
Let’s move on to the more sophisticated sibling of the Aluminum Cardholder the Senate. The basic design is very similar. Think of it as a leather wrapper Aluminum and you’ve nailed the Senate. The leather has a nice feel and I can see how this would look great after some wear.
Again, the Senate just builds on the foundation of the Aluminum Cardholder. The internal mechanism can hold the same 1-6 cards. The card ejection also works the same with a trigger at the bottom.
Instead of a removable band and backplate, the Senate has a leather plate and band sewn into the wallet. To add to the suave of the Senate, the backplate has a dedicated slot for you to use for a prominent card. Personally, I’ve used this for my driver’s license, but could also be used for a favorited pay card or the Ekster tracker card powered by Chipolo.
As expected, the Senate functions very similarly to the Aluminum. The slim design almost gets lost in your pocket and the leather wrap does add a premium fit. I did find I preferred the dedicated single card slot on the backplate of the Senate. It made me wish the metal one on the Aluminum had this dedicated option.
Parliament Wallet
Next up is the Parliament Wallet. This Ekster option is the most akin to the standard wallet. It has the patented cardholder internally but is housed inside a bifold leather binder. The front has a leather cover and the back has a dedicated card slot.
Inside the outside flap are two more card slots and a sewn-in band for additional storage. All this combined space can hold up to 12 cards. The inside slots on the cover are supposed to hold up to three cards but I’d stick with just two in each or it has trouble closing.
Using the Parliament is a hybrid of old and new to me. It’s slimmer still than a traditional back pocket, but it’s definitely creeping into that territory. Someone who still travels a ton and has to keep physical receipts and multiple cards might find this design more comfortable. It could also be a bridge device to not shock yourself into the slimmer models right off the bad in your minimalistic journey.
I also found a unique issue with both the Senate and Parliament. I have one titanium card in my commonly used credit cards. This card struggled to take the “shake test” with both of these leather card holders. It functions without issue in the Aluminum, but the Senate and Parliament allowed it to slide out.
Conclusion
I can’t say enough good on these wallets. Ekster has nailed the form and function of the slim wallet with all three: the Aluminum Cardholder, the Senate Cardholder, and the Parliament Wallet. Each has its own spin, but all would be great additions to anyone’s pocket.
You can get each model in a number of colors and all have several accessories you can add. Head on over to the Ekster website to shop all your options, or we’ve provided direct links to each model below.
As the world becomes increasingly digitalized, there are more opportunities for our data to be hacked and stolen. Already, any given individual is likely to have multiple apps on their phone that contain personal information such as a home address, email address, family information, and financial information. The field of cybersecurity is here to help mitigate the risks of having such personal information hacked and stolen. Check out the following tips to ensure your Android device is protected against cyber threats.
Keep Your Phone Locked
While it may seem like a common thing to do, not everyone keeps their phone locked with a password leaving data on the phone accessible to anyone. What’s more, many people use an always-on feature where their phone will not lock unless manually locked. This too can lead to a phone always being unlocked.
To keep your personal information safe, always lock your phone with a password. Depending on your Android phone model, you can lock your device with a passcode, your fingerprint, or FaceID. If you use a password, be sure to use a secure password that you don’t use for other personal accounts.
Use a Password Manager
An unfortunately common habit of many people is to use the same password for all their accounts. Doing this is a cybersecurity risk. If one account is hacked, the hacker has immediate access to all your other accounts. That’s why it’s important to use unique passwords for all your accounts.
To keep your Android phone and your accounts safe, use a password manager that stores all your unique passwords. Then, all you need to do is remember one secure password.
Update Your Phone’s Software
Software is never a complete product; there will always be software updates. As companies grow and innovate, they update their software to add new, interesting features to improve users’ experience. However, software updates are not only to add cool features—they are there to improve your phone’s security.
As software is around longer in the public, cybercriminals can experiment with methods to get around firewalls and security features. That’s where software updates are important from a security point of view. Updating your Android device’s software means your phone has the most up-to-date security measures in place to keep your phone safe from cyber threats.
Use a VPN
When you go to a browser on your Android phone, you’re connecting to the internet either through a WIFI network or your internet service provider. All your data is then available to that internet provider. They can see what websites you visit, what you search for, and from where you’re accessing the internet. If you connect to a public WIFI network, there may be cybercriminals monitoring the network and trying to get personal data from connected devices.
To stop cybercriminals, internet service providers, or trackers on the internet from having access to your data, use a VPN. Virtual private networks encrypt your browsing data and hide your IP address giving you optimal data privacy. The best VPN providers will block trackers and malware, and ensure your personal information is safe from any cyber threats.
Only Use the Google Play Store
When people get a new phone, one of the first things they do is install a bunch of applications. Between music apps, news apps, social media apps, banking apps, and productivity apps, many Android devices have tens if not 100 applications installed. While installing applications is okay, you should only ever install an application from secure sources.
If you have an Android device that comes with the Google Play Store, only install apps from that store. Google has strict guidelines on what it allows on its platform, and it ensures the apps available on the Play Store meet specific requirements. Installing application files from the internet is risky as the applications cannot be verified to be free from malware or security risks.
Use Antivirus Software
When people think of antivirus software, they likely think of software that comes default on their computer or laptop. While antivirus is more common on such devices, installing this software on your Android device can help ensure your phone and data are protected. This software works to stop malware from getting on your device and helps block phishing scams and malicious websites.
Several antivirus options are available for Android devices, but it’s recommended to use well-known software. Names like McAfee, Norton, Kaspersky, Avast, and Bitdefender are all popular antivirus solutions that have software specifically made for Android devices.
In this episode of the AndroidGuys podcast, Scott Webster and Luke Gaul chat about the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 Gaming Chair. A premium experience with a high level of detail, the chair is comfortable and built to last. Read on to learn more and listen to the podcast.
Be sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!
The Secretlab Titan Evo Gaming Chair is a well-crafted chair that blends cold-cure foam, premium leatherette, and a breathable fabric to create one of the most comfortable experiences we’ve tested.
Available in multiple sizes, it reclines 165 degrees with a customizable tension, locks into various positions, and offers multiple angles for the armrests. Suffice it to say, the chair is sturdy and flexible and gets you right in the gaming position that you love most.
Gallery
Features
Neo Hybrid Leatherette
Softweave Plus Fabric
Cold cure foam
Lumbar support system
Memory foam head pillow
NFC Tag for authenticity
Offered in multiple sizes and in branded designs
5-year warranty
Listen to the Episode
Parting Thoughts
Although it doesn’t come cheaply, the Titan Evo Gaming Chair is among the better products we’ve tested in the space. Materials are premium all the way around and lead to an incredibly comfortable experience.
We had a lot of fun putting this one together and we could see the attention to detail from the moment we opened the box. This is a highly flexible chair that’s sturdy and built to last. And thanks to the five year warranty, we know we’re good for a long time.
Where to Buy the Secretlab Titan Evo Gaming Chair
You can learn more about the Titan Evo Gaming Chair at the manufacturer’s website where it’s available to purchase in a variety of colors, sizes, and branded experience. As of today its pricing starts around $440 and goes up from there.
In this episode of the AndroidGuys podcast, Scott Webster and Luke Gaul chat about the Briiv Air Filter. A distinctly unique take on air filters, it’s an eco-friendly device that begs to be looked at. But is it any good? Read on to learn more and listen to the podcast.
Be sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!
The Briiv Air Filter is a relatively small device that helps to remove dirt, dust, allergens, gases, particulates, and other things from your air. Sit it on your kitchen counter, in the bedroom, or on an office desk and it enjoy the benefits of much cleaner air. Not only does it look organic and cool, but it’s powerful and environmentally conscious, too.
The organic and eco-friendly components include coconut and dragon grass, giving it a bit of a terrarium vibe.
Gallery
Features
Uses 90% renewable and natural materials
As powerful as 3,043 medium size houseplants
Biodegradable filters
5V Low Energy
Controlled by buttons or mobile app
2 Year Warranty
Listen to the Episode
Parting Thoughts
In a world full of generic designs, plastic shells, and otherwise boring air filters, the Briiv Air Filter stands above all others we’ve seen. It not only begs to be looked at and even discussed, but it’s incredibly efficient and helpful.
Without question, the Briiv does its job very well. We’ve been impressed with how quiet and effective the air filter is and appreciate that we can control it via the device and mobile app. It’s a perfect companion for those who might like to add some environmentally friendly and sustainably sourced flair.
Oh, and who doesn’t love a two-year warranty?
Where to Buy the Briiv Air Filter?
You can learn more about the Briiv Air Filter at the manufacturer’s website where it’s also available to purchase. As of today it’s priced about $340.
No matter where you’re going or what kind of trip you have planned, there’s no denying that travelling with technology can be tricky. From power outlets to different languages and unfamiliar currency, the digital nomad needs to do some serious research before they leave the house. Thankfully, though, there are apps that can help make your journey as easy as possible—and make you look like an expert to boot. Here are six great apps that will help you travel with technology like a pro.
Google Translate
One of the most useful apps for people who speak multiple languages is Google Translate. This app can translate words and phrases between more than 100 languages, making it easier to communicate with locals. This app is also great for translating menus, signs and other important information. You can even use this app to dictate the text you want translated into another language and then have it spoken aloud by a native speaker from the country you are in.
Expensify
Another great travel app is Expensify, which keeps track of your expenses, and lets you do things like scan receipts and expense reports right on the app. You can also set up alerts to get notified when you’ve reached your budget limit for the day or for the entire trip.
Packing Pro
This app has the traveller covered with an easy-to-use packing list, and the ability to share lists with friends and family. The app also offers style advice for packing outfits, as well as reminders for things like remembering to pack chargers or items that could be prohibited in certain countries.
Google Maps
Wondering how to plan your next vacation without stressing about information overload? Download Google Maps and stay informed on the best holiday destinations in the Philippines. Simply tell Google which area of the world you want to visit and it will give you suggestions for places you might be interested in. Keep scrolling to find out some specific locations, as well as helpful information such as the weather, top things to do in that city or country, and whether or not that destination is kid-friendly.
Citymapper
You’re going to be on the road for long periods of time, so it’s important that you have access to all the information you’ll need. Citymapper will help you get around by telling you exactly which bus or train to take and how long it will take to get there. The app also has maps with public transit options, bike sharing availability and even Uber prices so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Waze
Waze is a free navigation app that is especially great for those who are new to the area and don’t know their way around. You can set up your home and work locations so that it will tell you which route to take to get from one place to the other. You can also share your routes with friends and family if you’re feeling generous.
In this episode of the AndroidGuys podcast, Scott Webster and Luke Gaul chat about the Yaber Pico T1. After finding success on Indiegogo the portable projector is ready for its retail debut. How does the tiny unit fare? Read on to learn more and listen to the podcast.
Be sure to subscribe to the AndroidGuys podcast through your favorite platform or add the AndroidGuys Podcast RSS feed to enjoy!
The Yaber Pico T1 is a pint-sized portable projector that comes with a remote control and built-in navigational buttons. It runs its own software and can install apps such as YouTube, Hulu, HBO Max, and others. About the size of a portable power bank, it offers USB C screen mirroring, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-band Wi-Fi support.
Gallery
Features
Mini HDMI
2 x USB Type-C
Supports 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi
960 x 540 resolution
10″-100″ screen
Can install apps like Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, etc
Comes with remote control and tripod
Built-in touch display controls
Listen to the Episode
Parting Thoughts
We really like the portability of this projector and appreciate that it comes with a carrying case. You’ll need to supply your own power source as it doesn’t have an internal battery, but the kit comes with a portable charging bank.
The magnetic tripod is very handy for desktop presentations and for setting the projector to display at angles. While the 960 x 540 resolution doesn’t sound all that impressive, we were forgiving because of its diminutive size.
Generally speaking, the picture quality is decent with a fair amount of brightness, contrast, and detail to images. We can imagine this working well for office settings, camping, and gaming on the go.
The included remote is much easier to use than the built-in navigation, but we do like that Yaber offers that for quick touch and access.
The operating system was a little bit wonky to get used to at first but once we had things squared up, installed, and logged in, it was pretty much smooth sailing from that point forward.
Where to Buy the Yaber Pico T1
You can learn more about the yaber Pico T1 at Indiegogo and manufacturer’s website where it’s currently listed as coming soon. Based on what we can tell, the price looks to be around $360 when it arrives.
My first real stereo was a hand-me-down Technics system that I loved. So, when I saw Technics recently launched the EAH-AZ60 Wireless Earbuds with ANC, I was excited to give them a try. Thankfully, the company agreed to send them out for a review.
Design
The Technics EAH-AZ60 true wireless earbuds come in a compact plastic case in either black or silver. I have the black unit here, but as you can see from the photos, it appears to be more of a dark blue than black.
There is a USB Type-C port on the back for charging, sorry no wireless charging here, and the lid is held shut with the use of a magnetic clasp. The case also makes use of magnets to secure the buds in place and it does a great job of keeping them in place.
Comfort
After years of reviewing earbuds, one thing that always surprises me is the lack of ear tips included in the box, specifically smaller ear tips. However, Technics surprised me here by providing one of the most comprehensive collections of ear tips that I’ve ever seen. There are seven different sizes to choose from, including some specifically for people with smaller ear canals, that would be me.
Not only is this important for comfort, but it also plays a huge role in noise cancellation. Without a proper seal, you can’t expect the earbuds to do a proper job of cancelling out the noise around you.
Regardless, I couldn’t quite get a comfortable fit even with the smallest tips and I had to use a pair from this set I purchased from Amazon.
User experience
While I applaud Technics for including a large variety of ear tips with the EAH-60AZ, I still found myself needing to adjust or buds in my ears from time to time. The issue with this, is that I’d also end up inadvertently activating the touch controls on the buds.
I’ve encountered issues like this with several other pairs of headphones in the past. Touch controls seem great, in theory, but in practice, they can be a real nuisance unless implemented perfectly. A few brands have gotten it right, but I eventually had to disable the touch controls on the EAH-60AZ to prevent constantly pausing or skipping tracks.
While we’re on the topic of pausing tracks, the Technics EAH-60AZ don’t include a sensor on the buds to automatically pause when you remove them from your ears. That’s not such a big deal for me, but it is something you’d expect to see at this price point.
As far as making phone calls go, the mics work great. I never had any complaints on the calls I made and you can even use one earbud while leaving the other in the case.
App
I love the app for the EAH-60AZ. Some manufacturers include a barebones app that does little more than toggle ANC and update the firmware. While other brands go all out, and I’m happy to report that the Technics app does the latter.
The Technics Audio Connect app allows you to view the battery level of each individual earbud, toggle on ANC, control the level of noise cancellation, adjust the EQ, update firmware, and more.
The app does just about everything you could want, except for showing the battery level of the case. It’s that one glaring omission that makes it just shy of perfect.
Sound quality
Having never used Technics earbuds before, I was uncertain of what to expect. Fortunately, I was in for a surprise, because the EAH-60AZ sound amazing. Out of the box, the sound is warm and balanced with lots of depth. However, I personally prefer a little more bass, so a quick trip to the EQ, and I had the EAH-60AZ tuned exactly the way I wanted.
For me, that means crisp highs with deep full bass and a wide sound stage. The Technics EAH-60AZ more than delivered on all of these fronts, especially with deep clean bass without distortion.
Comparing them to one of my favorite pairs of earbuds, the Sony WF-1000XM4, showed there was hardly a difference in sound quality. The EAH-60AZ sound very similar and offer the LDAC much like the Sony buds for the highest quality wireless connection you can ask for.
ANC
The noise cancellation on the Technics EAH-60AZ is top-notch. With a proper seal, it blocks out all the annoying background sounds in everyday life and leaves you with just the music. Additionally, you can adjust the ANC level in the app, turn on the transparency mode to allow outside noises in, or completely disable noise cancellation.
Battery
Technics rates the EAH-60AZ for seven hours of consistent listening and 24 hours overall with the charging case. During my time with the earbuds, I’ve had no trouble listening for a couple of hours at a time, but I did have them drain completely on me within a week.
That was after listening for around two hours a day during my workouts. This puts the battery life at nearly 14 hours, but in my case, I was using LDAC which is known to reduce battery life. That’s still more than decent considering I left ANC on all the time as well.
One thing I did notice is that the left earbud seems to always drain more quickly to the point that it died before the right bud.
Final thoughts
The Technics EAH-60AZ are a fantastic set of earbuds with audiophile-level sound and excellent noise cancellation. I was very impressed with the ANC performance along with the sound quality when using the LDAC setting.
Still, there are some improvements Technics could make, such as adding wireless charging and a design with an area you can use to push the buds in without activating the touch controls. Otherwise, the EAH-60AZ are among some of the best earbuds I’ve reviewed and come in at a lower price than Sony’s offering making them a great bargain.
The Technics EAH-60AZ are now available in black or silver from Amazon or B&H for $200 or cheaper if you can find them on sale.
