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The Samsung Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24 Plus, and Galaxy S24 Ultra are eligible.
What you need to know
Samsung’s upcoming One UI 7 update, based on Android 15, has experienced numerous delays, but a beta is available now.
The update is expected to debut near or alongside the release of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series in January.
One UI 7 adds new features like theNow Bar, newcamera toggles, and persistentWriting Tools.
Samsung today announced that,after numerous delays, the first One UI 7 beta is now available for theSamsung Galaxy S24 series. The company says that Samsung Members can apply for access to the One UI 7 beta starting today to gain early access to the Android 15-based update. Otherwise, the upgrade is expected to launch early next year alongside the upcomingSamsung Galaxy S25 series, as the company confirms One UI 7 will release publicly in the first quarter of 2025.
One UI 7is set to launch with “upcoming Galaxy S series devices,” but will arrive on other Galaxy devices as part of a gradual rollout. For now, the Samsung Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24 Plus, and Galaxy S24 Ultra are the only three models known for certain to be eligible for the One UI 7 beta immediately. It’s possible that the beta could be expanded to include the Galaxy S24 FE, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy Z Flip 6.
As was expected, Samsung is doubling down onGalaxy AIwith One UI 7. It’s specifically trying to compete with Apple Intelligence with more system-wide software tools. For example, Writing Tools — a set of generative AI-based grammar and writing options — are now able to be used anywhere without needing to switch apps.
Additionally, Samsung touts that One UI 7 will bring “more intuitive interaction and greater personalization,” with AI at the heart of it.
Samsung also shared a few details about the new features One UI 7 will bring. ANow Barwill become a new part of the One UI lock screen, making it possible for users to see important notifications dynamically without needing to open their phone. Additionally, the Camera app in One UI 7 is getting a boost, as the viewfinder now includes new buttons, controls, and modes. In another Apple Intelligence-inspired feature,Call Transcriptwill automatically transcribe recorded calls in 20 supported languages.
A few security improvements add aKnox Matrix dashboardthat lets users view their connected devices in one place,Credential Syncs, and a new recovery method for data transfers.
You can apply to gain access to the One UI 7 beta and test these features for yourself by becoming a Samsung Member if you have a Galaxy S24 series device.
The best smartphone of 2024, at least in the eyes of a well-known tech YouTuber, is not even on the market in Europe yet and was only recently officially unveiled. For the first time, smartphones that have been launched in China in recent weeks are playing a role in an YouTube awards ceremony.
The award ceremony for the best smartphones of 2024 hosted by YouTuber Arun Maini (aka MrWhosetheboss) names some surprising winners. (Image source: MrWhosetheboss)
Up to now, we’ve been used to seeing award shows like this on Marques Brownlee’s MKBHD channel. In recent years, however, the well-known tech YouTuber has been facingincreasing competition from other YouTube tech aficionados and in 2024 Arun Maini, better known as MrWhosetheBoss, has beaten the currently somewhat controversial YouTuber from the USA to the punch.
Which is fine for us as the Brit offers a somewhat more European perspective of the smartphone market, which certainly makes for surprises in his awards video. Although many of the candidates are not available on the US market, they are certainly available in Europe, albeit sometimes a little late. All categories and winners of the YouTube awards ceremony are listed at the end of the article, but those wanting to first see the video without spoilers can click on the video below.
Such rankings usually only include smartphones that were launched on the European or US market. Arun breaks with this tradition and awards four categories to fairly new smartphones that were only launched a few weeks ago and some of which are not even available in Europe yet. Thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Elite, the ROG Phone 9 Pro blows all other competing models out of the water.
However, the surprise of this award ceremony is theVivo X200 Pro, which is currently only available in China and several Asian countries. Not only does it steal the title of “Best Smartphone 2024” from Samsung and Apple, it is also the only candidate to win in several categories. It is also striking that Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro does not get a mention in any category, but these awards are of course always somewhat subjective.
The best smartphones of 2024 (according to MrWhosetheboss)
Don’t choose wrong when it comes to your Apple Watch size
Apple Watch Series 10 42mm
Smaller, cheaper
The 42mm Apple Watch Series 10 is lighter, cheaper, and less bulky than its larger counterpart. But you’ll miss out on a more expansive display.
For
Smaller
Lighter
Cheaper
Against
Display size
Harder to type on
Apple Watch Series 10 46mm
Bigger. Better?
The larger 46mm option is more expensive than the 42mm, but you’ll get a much larger display that’s easier to read and easier to type on.
For
Much bigger display
Easier to read
Easier to type on
Against
Heavier
Bulkier
More expensive
If you’re eyeing up Apple’s new Apple Watch Series 10, then one of the most important choices you’ll make when buying it is choosing between its 42mm and 46mm case sizes.
Apple’s mainstream flagship wearable for 2024 comes in two distinct sizes, both larger than in previous years. While the difference in shape and size might sound obvious, picking between the sizes does impact your purchase more than you might think.
A larger Apple Watch is going to offer more battery life and a larger display but at the cost of more weight and cash. A larger watch size will also be easier to type on thanks to its larger keyboard, but a smaller one will be less intrusive and is less likely to get scratched or bumped. As you can see, there’s more to this choice than you might think, so here’s everything you need to know before you hit “buy”.
The mm size of an Apple Watch refers to the vertical height of the watch case, which means you need a few more stats to compare the overall dimensions of the watch and the size of the display case.
Specs
42mm
46mm
Price
From $399
$429
Height
42mm
46mm
Width
39mm
39mm
Depth
9.7mm
9.7mm
Pixels
374 x 446
416 x 496
Sq mm display
989
1220
Weight
30
36.4
Weight + Cellular
29.3
35.3
Weight titanium
34.4
41.6
Battery life
18 hours (36 hours low power)
18 hours (36 hours low power)
Evidently, 4mm on paper quickly translates to a significantly larger display size: that’s a whopping 23% larger on the 46mm compared to the 42mm. While neither Watch is huge, these models mark a significant increase over the sizes of previous models, some 30% larger than the Series 6 design, and 9% larger than last year’s Apple Watch Series 9.
The difference in display is sizeable, and worthy of consideration before you make your pick. Both Watch models offer a Retina OLED display, so pixels won’t be distinguishable to the naked eye, but the larger 46mm version offers much more display real estate.
Apple Watch 42mm vs 46mm: Thickness and weight
(Image credit: Future) There is no difference between either model when it comes to thickness, both measure 9.7mm in depth, significantly less than Apple Watch models in previous years. As you might expect, the larger Watch does come with some extra weight, roughly 6 grams across every model, but that’s hardly enough to write home about. If you must have the lightest Watch possible, the smaller one is best, but the trade-off in display size probably isn’t worth it.
Apple Watch 42mm vs 46mm: Wrist sizes
(Image credit: Future)
Apple has always been quick to dispel the notion that its smaller and larger Apple Watch models are a simple ‘his and hers’ division. Instead, Apple focuses on wrist size. The 46mm Watch is posed as a watch for 140-245mm wrists (circumference, presumably), while the 42mm version fits 130-200mm wrists. No doubt, the larger Watch will feel obtrusive and uncomfortable on a more slender wrist, and it might not even fit properly depending on the type of band you have. Conversely, a 42mm Watch will fit on any wrist, but it could end up looking comically small for those with bigger arms.
Apple Watch 42mm vs 46mm: Battle of the bands
(Image credit: Future)
When it comes to band selection, it doesn’t really matter which Apple Watch size you choose. Pretty much every band made by Apple and third-party retailers comes in both sizes, either 42mm or 46mm, so picking one size or the other won’t limit you here. However, if you already own an Apple Watch or any Apple Watch bands, it’s important to get this selection right.
The 42mm Apple Watch is this year’s new “small” Apple Watch. That means that bands made for the 38mm, 40mm, or the 41mm Watch will work with this year’s new model. 46mm is the new “large” model and will work with bands made for the 44mm, 45mm, and even the 49mm Apple Watch Ultra series. Every band in our best Apple Watch band selection will work: just make sure you get the right size.
Apple Watch 42mm vs 46mm: Battery life
You might assume that a bigger Apple Watch will have more battery life, because the battery is larger. However, it has to power a larger display. As such, Apple doesn’t list any variance in battery life between the two sizes. Both are rated for up to 18 hours of regular use, or 36 hours inwatchOS 11’s Low Power Mode. Both also feature the same 0-80% in 30 minutes fast charging, too. There might be a tiny advantage to a larger watch in terms of battery life, but the gains are so marginal you shouldn’t let it influence your decision.
Apple Watch 42mm vs 46mm: Which should you buy?
(Image credit: Future)
As you can see, the difference between the 42mm and 46mm Apple Watch Series 10 is fairly slim. There aren’t any specific technical or feature differences between the two, so it’s all about taste, aesthetics, and the amount of bulk you want to carry around on your wrist. If you want a larger display that’s easier to read and type on and don’t mind the extra bulk or the more expensive price tag, pick the 46mm. If you want a smaller, less obtrusive Apple Watch, or you’re trying to save money, the 42mm is probably for you.
It’s a big oopsie, but we get to see what more is on the way.
It seems that Samsung will officially announce One UI 7 shortly. (Image source: Samsung)
What you need to know
Samsung trips up and accidentally posts its One UI 7 details early on a Spanish website.
The software is preparing to bring additional features to “Sketch to Image” and “Portrait Studio” like watercolor, 3D cartoon, and more.
Once again, the page reportedly highlighted previously rumored parental controls and previewed the updated icons and notification panel changes.
Samsung has reportedly delayed its Beta Program for One UI 7 to December.
There’s a lot of hype (and anticipation) surrounding One UI 7, but Samsung might’ve slipped up with this one.
Spotted by X tipsterChunvn, Samsung’s Spanish website variant might’ve accidentally published its complete One UI 7 details early. The publication quickly jumped on things and managed to capture a series of videos before Samsung took it down.
The One UI 7-centric page highlighted several features like Sketch to Image and Portrait Studio. Neither of these features is new; however, the next OS upgrade is set to take them further. According to the page, One UI 7 will improve Sketch to Image by giving it “3D Cartoon, Sketch, and Watercolor” options. The brief video captured showcases the ability of a user to draw a simple, flat image before tapping “generate.”
The example given seemingly shows the watercolor option selected. After a brief wait time, One UI 7’s AI will produce your desired drawing. The website reportedly offered extra details, stating that a watermark would be added to anything “generated with AI.” Moreover, edited images will become a resized product of “up to 12MP.”
Portrait Studio seems primed to pick up options similar to Sketch to Image. The post states Samsung will provide “3D Cartoon, Cartoon, and Sketch” options alongside a “Live Effects” feature. The page reportedly stated Live Effects will add “depth” and “perspective.”
The early One UI 7 highlights page also showcased the software’s revamped icons,notifications and Quick Settings panel split, and ongoing activity alert. We’ve seen most of this repeatedly; however, the ongoing alert is a large, pill-shaped icon nestled at the bottom of your device’s lock screen.
It will seemingly give users a clear view of their lock screen — but notifications will likely take up the space under the date.
We’ve seen additional (supposed) One UI 7 features leaked previously, likeparental and AI-focused features. However, with the latest accidentally posted One UI 7 page by Samsung, it seems these features are inbound. It was reported in October that the software would give parents better agency over their child’s online safety. They would have tools to block websites alongside tools to cut off access to certain apps.
Samsung’s accidental post seemingly confirms these features, as well as the additional AI features for Sketch to Image and Portrait Studio.
It seems like we’ve been waiting for One UI 7 forever — and the wait hasonly been extendedas Samsung pushed its beta back even more. Reports claim that the Korean OEM encountered additional problems within its software, which have forced it to delay the Beta Program until “the first week of December.”
Upcoming Apple Watches may be able to measure blood pressure in a non-optical and innovative way, but it remains unclear if and when Apple will actually implement the technology.
The Apple Watch may get a blood pressure measurement feature. (Image source: Daniel Schmidt)
That Apple is currently working on ways to measure blood pressure isno secret. In fact, such a feature would not necessarily catapult Apple to the top of the wearable manufacturers in this respect, but instead put the company on par withHuawei with its direct measurementorSamsung with its optical measurement. That said, a newpatent (PDF)from Apple has now emerged, which describes a new way of measuring blood pressure with a watch.
How the blood pressure measurement is supposed to work becomes clear when studying the flow chart. An inflatable chamber is first filled, which, together with a sensing chamber and a pressure sensor, work to detect the resulting ‘vibrations’ that occur in the user’s blood flow. In simple terms: Blood pressure is the externally applied pressure required to stop blood flow.Korotkoff sounds, the sounds or ‘vibrations’ that are emitted when pressure is applied to blood flow via a non-invasive procedure, can then be measured.
The patent mentions that the chamber is filled with liquid – what advantages liquid offers instead of air is not immediately clear, as liquids, unlike gases (and ultimately air) are considered incompressible. As always, just because Apple is patenting a particular technology does not necessarily mean that it will be implemented in the nextApple Watchor even at all.
(Image credit: Majin Bu) A recent report indicated that Apple could change the materials for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max frames.
There has been a fair amount of rumors regarding the iPhone 17 series in the last few weeks, including leaked specs and a general idea of what the phone will include. However, a recent leak has indicated a new design change for the Pro models of the phone, including a Pixel 9 Pro-like change. In a recent article, The Information stated that Apple will construct new phone frames from aluminum.
This change would be the first time in a while that the Pro models use the same materials as the base iPhone since the iPhone X in 2017, which used a stainless steel frame. That frame was then dropped for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max in favor of titanium.
There are some advantages to using aluminum for the frame, though, primarily that it is much lighter than the other options and more eco-friendly.
(Image credit: Front Page Tech) The report also states that Apple plans to drop the rear glass camera housing, instead opting for a larger rectangle constructed out of aluminum. If that sounda familiar, it’s because its a similar design to the Pixel 9 Pro.
As such, it is reported that the back panel will be split, with half being made of metal and half glass. If accurate this would likely be for wireless charging, which isn’t possible through fully metal back panels.
As stated, we have heard a lot of different rumors and leaks regarding the iPhone 17. For instance, a recent tip indicated that the iPhone 17 Pro models could feature upgraded telephoto and selfie cameras. Not only that, it appears the devices will feature an upgraded 3nm chipset that promises to offer a big performance boost over the prior models.
Apple using the same aluminum frame across models is an interesting idea, but we won’t know for certain until the official reveal. If Apple follows its trends we’d expect the iPhone 17 series to be revealed around September 2025.
The best Android tablets to go with your Galaxy and OnePlus phone
(Image credit: Samsung)
Android tablets are perfect for getting work done, playing games, unleashing your inner artist, or just zoning out and scrolling your feeds.
Android tablets are multitasking and gaming beasts, with stunning visuals and more customization options than Apple’s best. Plus, tablets like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE give you more screen real estate and longer battery life than a similarly-priced iPad.
We’ve got even more tablets in Future Labs right now, including the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and the OnePlus Pad 2, but don’t wait if you find a great deal on an older version of both of those tablets. Check back soon to see if some new Android contenders make it onto our list of the best.
The best premium Android tablet
1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Plus Best premium Android tablet Specifications Weight: 571g Dimensions: 285.4 x 185.4 x 5.6mm OS: Android 14, OneUI 6.1
Front camera: 12MP Reasons to buy +Water and dust resistant +Includes an S Pen in the box +Excellent multi-tasking features Reasons to avoid -Performance isn’t as good as best iPads -Software can be overcomplicated -No ‘magic keyboard’ competitor from Samsung
Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S10 Plus is a premium tablet that comes loaded with features, including many benefits you won’t find on any iPad or other Android tablets. It’s made for gaming, with a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor that excels at graphics performance, but Samsung’s software and the included S Pen also make it perfect for multi-tasking and getting things done.
Samsung has wisely continued to build IP68 certified tablets that are water resistant and durable. You can take the Galaxy Tab S10 Plus into the bath or wash it in the sink if it gets dirty. It’s still a very attractive tablet, it doesn’t look like a tank, but that durability makes it more versatile than an iPad Pro, if you carry your tablet around in the world with you.
The Galaxy Tab S10 Plus costs the same as an iPad Pro 11-inch tablet, but you get a much larger display, which also means a bigger battery inside, and Samsung happily gives you an S Pen, it’s not an expensive accessory like the Apple Pencil.
Samsung also makes the best tablet software around. It’s very easy to open multiple apps side-by-side, and you can even connect the Galaxy Tab S10 Plus to a monitor and keyboard to create a desktop-like experience. This is the best Android tablet you can buy, and easily one of the best tablets all around.
The best budget tablet
2. Amazon Fire HD 10 The best budget tablet Specifications Weight: 433g Dimensions: 246 x 164.8 x 8.6mm OS: Fire OS Screen size: 10.1-inch
Resolution: 1920 x 1200 pixels CPU: Octa-core 2.05 GHz Storage: 32GB/64GB Battery: up to 13 hours
Rear camera: 5MP, 1080p HD video Front camera: 5MP, 1080p HD video Reasons to buy +Very inexpensive for a 10-inch tablet +Seems quite durable and hardy Reasons to avoid -Only Amazon App Market, no Google Play -Tons of bloatware and extra services The Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023) is not a great tablet, but it is certainly a cheap tablet, and for the price it gives you plenty to like. While it starts at $139.99 for the 32GB version (with a microSD card slot, nice!).
The Fire HD 10 (2023) has a nice, big screen at 10.1-inches. It’s not as big as an iPad or Galaxy Tab, but it will be large enough to watch your favorite shows and streaming movies, or for browsing the web. You’ll be restricted to Amazon’s App Market instead of the Google Play Store, but all of your favorite streamers and most of the biggest productivity apps are there.
There are also plenty of accessories available, including a fancy Amazon Stylus Pen, a ton of cases, and more. If you need to step up to a keyboard, you might also check out the Amazon Fire Max 11, Amazon’s recent step into more-premium Android tablets.
3. OnePlus Pad Best Android tablet for most people Specifications Weight: 552g Dimensions: 258 x 189.4 x 6.5 mm OS: Android 14 with Oxygen OS Screen size: 11.6-inch
Resolution: 2000 x 2800 pixels CPU: MediaTek Dimensity 9000 Storage: 128GB microSD slot: No
Battery: 9,510mAh Rear camera: 13MPFront camera: 8MP Reasons to buy +Display is sharper than iPad Pro +A flagship tablet priced like a cheaper model +Big battery and faster charging Reasons to avoid -Performance doesn’t match best phones -One option for storage, RAM, color -Stylo pen is pricey, needs charging From our testing and experience with the OnePlus Pad, we can confidently say it is the best Android tablet for pretty much everyone who wants a great tablet but does not want an iPad. And even better, it’s priced competitively, undercutting rival tablets from the likes of Samsung.
So what makes the OnePlus Pad special? Well first off it sports a very impressive display that’s even sharper than the screens you’ll find on an iPad Pro. But not only is the 2800 x 2000 resolution great on this 11.61-inch display, it also refreshes at a speedy 144Hz. So that makes the OnePlus Pad a great device for viewing everything from movies and games to web pages and documents on.
Class-leading charging speeds and a 9,510mAh battery sweetens the deal for the OnePlus Pad. The only minor let down is the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chip can’t quite keep up with very demanding tasks like photo editing in Lightroom. So even though there’s the option to use the OnePlus Pad with a keyboard cover, it’s not likely to stand up to being a laptop replacement.
However, that’s by-the-by as at the sweet price of $479, the OnePlus Pad’s minor shortcomings can be overlooked as it serves up a great Android tablet that’s worth consideration by most people.
The best battery life
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus Best battery life Specifications Weight: 627g Dimensions: 285.4 x 185.4 x 6.5mm OS: Android 14, OneUI 6
Battery: 10,090 mAh Rear camera: 8MP (wide); 8MP (ultra wide) Front camera: 12MP Reasons to buy +Water and dust resistant +Great multi-tasking software +Includes an S Pen in the box Reasons to avoid -Bulky and heavy compared to iPad Air -Slower Exynos processor inside -Still expensive considering performance The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus arrived with the rest of the recent FE clan, including a Galaxy S23 FE phone and new FE buds. The ‘FE’ tag no longer stands for ‘Fan Edition,’ now it just means … nothing. That’s fine, because the Tab S9 FE Plus managed to impress in our full review no matter what it’s called. It costs the same as an Apple iPad Air, but it manages to beat Apple’s tablet in many ways, especially in battery life, making it our pick for longevity in a tablet.
Of course, the Tab S9 FE Plus lasts a long time because it’s processor is a bit underpowered, especially compared to Apple’s tablet. While the iPad Air gives you a full desktop processor inside, Samsung opts for a much more conservative Exynos 1380 processor, the same chipset found in its bargain Galaxy A54 phone from 2023.
So, it won’t be editing 8K video in real time, but you’ll have fun watching videos for up to 18 hours, almost twice as long as many other tablets on this list, which typically last between 9 to 11 hours with basic usage. The Tab S9 FE Plus lasts well over a day of use even with the screen on, so if you need a tablet that lasts, this is your first stop.
The best drawing tablet
5. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra The best drawing tablet Specifications Weight: 732g Dimensions: 326.4 x 208.6 x 5.5mm OS: Android 13 Screen size: 14.6-inch
Resolution: 1848 x 2960 pixels CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB
microSD slot: Yes Battery: 11,200mAh Rear camera: 13MP (wide) + 8MP (ultrawide) Front camera: 12MP + 12MP Reasons to buy +Samsung multitasking is better than iPad and Pixel Tablet +Gorgeous display and blazing performance +Value is surprisingly good compared to iPad Pro Reasons to avoid -Same price as a Macbook Air (M2) -Faster charging would have been nice -Flimsy keyboard and no easy S Pen storage
The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra was our previous pick for the best overall Android tablet, and if you can afford this premium, 14.6-inch monster, you should absolutely buy it. You may need to find a larger bag, and it’s probably bigger than most people need, which is why the Tab S9 Plus is our new premium Android favorite. If you need a serious tablet, with a seriously huge display made for drawing and artwork, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is the best you can buy.
The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra probably gives you more than you need, but if you want to draw in the bathtub or by the pool, its water resistant frame will keep away moisture, even if it takes a dunk. The included S Pen uses the same Wacom technology you trust in professional graphic design tablets, so you can rely on its pressure and tilt sensitivity. You can even use your favorite Wacom pen with the Tab S9 Ultra, it will work the same.
We weren’t huge fans of the keyboard Samsung offers for the Tab S9 Ultra, and it’s really better as a massive canvas than a productivity took. This belongs on a huge drafting desk with great lighting, not stuffed onto a tray table on a plane. The Tab S9 Ultra is an ultimate tablet, but only if you have the space for it, and artists will appreciate what this huge display adds to the studio.
The best tablet for work
6. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 The best tablet for work Specifications Weight: 732g Dimensions: 326.4 x 208.6 x 5.5mm OS: Android 14, OneUI 6.1 Screen size: 14.6-inch
Resolution: 1848 x 2960 pixels CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB
Reasons to buy +Samsung multitasking is better than iPad and Pixel Tablet +Gorgeous display and blazing performance +Value is surprisingly good compared to iPad Pro Reasons to avoid -Same price as a Macbook Air (M2) -Faster charging would have been nice -Flimsy keyboard and no easy S Pen storage
With the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, you get the best productivity software on any tablet, especially if you want to do a lot at one time. Samsung’s software shines on the larger tablet display, with great multi-window support, and excellent tools that keep you up-to-date all the time.
Samsung goes even further with DeX, a feature that turns the Galaxy Tab S9 into a real desktop with a task bar and floating windows. Just connect a mouse and keyboard, and maybe even a second display, and you’re ready to get more done. It’s an incredibly useful tool that makes it easy to access your work email and business documents in a comfortable way on the go, using a larger tablet screen instead of a smaller phone.
The Galaxy Tab S9 is even water resistant, so you could work from the beach safely near the waves, we won’t tell. That durability, plus Samsung’s great service and support, makes the Galaxy Tab S9 our favorite tablet for getting work done.
The best compact Android tablet
7. Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus The best small Android tablet Specifications Weight: 355g Dimensions: 202 x 137 x 9.7mm OS: Fire OS Screen size: 8-inch
Resolution: 880 x 1280 CPU: quad-core Storage: 32GB/64GB
Battery: up to 12 hours Rear camera: 2MP (wide) Front camera: 2MP Reasons to buy +Wireless charging +Can be used like an Echo Show Reasons to avoid -Poor screen quality -Not swift, even with extra RAM The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is our favorite small Android tablet for a few reasons. First of all, it’s inexpensive and packed with apps for streaming your favorite movies and shows, connecting to your social networks, or getting some work done.
Second, most Android tablet makers have backed away from small tablets, so there isn’t a professional-strength Apple iPad mini competitor from Samsung or OnePlus, unless you buy an expensive foldable phone with a mini tablet inside. Instead, you can spend less than a hundred bucks on the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus and get most of what you need from a simple, small tablet.
Don’t expect much power, because the Fire HD 8 Plus is made for media, not business. You’ll still find plenty of tools from Microsoft and your favorite productivity apps on Amazon’s App Market. You just won’t have access to Google Play or any Google services, since this is an Amazon-only affair.
This tablet goes on sale often, making it an even better deal if you’re shopping at the right time.
How to choose the best Android tablet for you
When you’re buying an Android tablet, the first thing to consider is not the tablet, but which phone you carry. Samsung tablets have features that only work with Samsung phones, and the OnePlus Pad also has features that work exclusively with OnePlus devices. Before other considerations, you might want to match your phone to your tablet to get the most out of both.
The next thing to consider is how much you want to spend. If you can spend on an Android tablet what you might spend on an iPad, you can get our favorite Android tablets from OnePlus and Samsung, with robust features, a great display, and plenty of extras like an included stylus.
If you only have a hundred bucks or so, you’ll be looking at Amazon Fire tablets, which don’t run Android with Google Play but instead rely on Amazon’s own App Market. You still get plenty of your favorite apps and streaming services, so hopefully, you won’t have to miss much to save money.
Is mobile data important?
No, if you buy an Android tablet that matches the brand of your phone, your tablet will probably be able to use your phone’s network connection without much trouble. Even if you buy a different brand, it isn’t hard to connect an Android tablet to your phone’s network signal.
Of course, buying a tablet from a mobile carrier often means you can get a discount or a deal that lets you buy a more expensive device, but this usually comes with a multi-year commitment to stay a customer until you’ve paid off the price of the tablet.
The two latest Sony Walkmans were originally delivered with Android 12. Now, the music players are getting an update to Android 14, which comes are a surprise since major operating system updates are the exception rather than the rule for hi-fi music players.
Sony is updating two of its latest music players to Android 14. (Image source: Sony)
Android-based music players from manufacturers such as FiiO, Hiby, iBasso or Shanling generally come with Android versions that are several years old, and updates to newer versions are almost never available. This has also been the case for Sony Walkman, such as the NW-A105 that was delivered with Android 9.0 and never received an update to Android 10.
Sony now appears to be following a new update policy for its two latest music players, the Walkman NW-A306 and the Walkman NW-ZX707. After the two Walkmans were launched with Android 12 at the beginning of 2023, Sony released the update to Android 13 around a year ago, and users can now download an update to Android 14. We have already installed the update on a Walkman NW-ZX707 as a test and, as expected, Sony has deactivated many features that are not relevant for a music player.
There are nevertheless a few new features. For example, the Walkman now has more options for customizing the color of the home and lock screens, including the option of coloring app icons. Android 14 also comes with some new wallpapers. Charging processes can now be limited to a maximum of 80% in order to extend battery life. After the update, the Walkman switches off automatically after 72 hours to save battery power.
The update contains the Android security patch from August 2024. The download can be started as usual via the system settings, provided the Walkman is connected to a USB-C charging cable and a Wi-Fi network. Firmware version 3.00 requires a download of around 1,500 MB. Lastly, Sony points out that it is not possible to revert to the older Android version after installing the update.
The sale stoppage went into effect when the company failed to meet local requirements.
Apple has offered $100 million to Indonesia as part of an effort to lift a recent ban of the iPhone 16 in the country, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. The company has presented an investment plan that would use that $100 million to set up a manufacturing plant in the nation.
Earlier this month, Apple offered the country $10 million to reverse the ban. This latest proposal is worth ten times that, so the company certainly sees Indonesia as an important market. After all, the country is home to 280 million potential smartphone customers. The Ministry of Industry of Indonesia is scheduled to review Apple’s proposal this week.
This all started because Apple missed a local investment threshold by around $15 million. Indonesia mandates that certain devices sold in the country must have at least 40 percent “domestic content.” This percentage can be met by using domestically-sourced materials, building manufacturing plants or by employing local workers.
Apple previously invested around $94 million in the country through a variety of means, but it wasn’t enough to stave off the ban. The sale stoppage also applies to other recently-released Apple products, like the Apple Watch Series 10. The ban doesn’t impact older Apple devices, which are still available for purchase throughout the country.
Apple has opened up several developer academies throughout the country, but an actual manufacturing plant would be a major boon for Indonesia. Both Samsung and Xiaomi have already set up factories in the nation.
The Garmin Edge Explore 2 bike computer is receiving a new public beta update, version 25.19. This is an unusual back-to-back update, which requires users to install different firmware before proceeding with the update. The change log notes that the release brings support for camera controls.
The Garmin Edge Explore 2 is being updated with beta version 25.19. (Image source: Garmin)
Garmin is rolling out anew beta updateto the Edge Explore 2 GPS Bike Computer. This is the first public release in the 25.xx testing cycle, despite it being version 25.19. The previous software, version 24.20, brought a wide range of features and improvements to the product, including Garmin Share and hazards support.
Beta version 25.19 is a relatively minor update. The change log states that the Edge Explore 2 now supports camera control. The release notes also indicate that the update brings bug fixes, though Garmin has not listed these changes. As with recent updates for other models like theEdge 540andEdge 1050bike computers, this is a back-to-back update. Users must first install version 24.54, which allows the Edge Explore 2 to use MTP (Media Transfer Protocol) when transferring files between the device and a computer. After the installation is complete, the bike computer will reboot.
Once this has finished, you can proceed with the download of update version 25.19. According to a Garmin team member, this beta update has already reached at least 50% of eligible users. TheGarmin Edge Explore 2 is currently available for $269 at Amazon.
