What is Qi2 wireless charging? Everything you need to know

Here’s the lowdown in the next generation of wireless charging

anker qi2 maggo wireless chargers from ifa 2024

(Image credit: Anker)

Qi2 wireless chargingwas first announcedall the way back inCES 2023, promising that something akin to Apple’s MagSafe would come to Android phones in the near future. So far there hasn’t been much progress in making that promise a reality. But rumor has it that 2025 could be the year that Qi2’s magnetic wireless charging could finally go mainstream.

It’s claimed that Samsung could be including Qi2 on theGalaxy S25series, which may make it the first major Android phone to feature the new technology. Considering Samsung probably won’t be the last phone maker to adopt Qi2, it’s somethingI am very excited about seeing. There’s improvements to wireless charging speed and efficiency, opportunities to exploit the magnets in other ways, and more.

Here’s everything you need to know about Qi2 wireless charging — and why I’m so excited to finally see it arrive.

What is Qi2?

Qi2 wireless charging is the second generation of the Qi wireless charging standard. Like Qi1, which is more or less ubiquitous now, Qi2 was developed as an open standard by the Wireless Power Consortium.

The idea behind Qi2 is to improve upon what wireless charging already offers in a bunch of different ways. This includes adding magnets, with the help ofMagSafedevelopers Apple, while also offering big upgrades to the charging itself. Upgrades like faster speeds, better power efficiency and improved safety. All so that the wireless charging experience is better for everyone involved.

While Qi2 was first revealed by the WPC atCES2023, the standard wasn’t finalized until January 2024. This meant phone makers, barring Apple who had MagSafe, couldn’t implement the technology for at least a year after its initial reveal.

What are the benefits of Qi2?

(Image credit: Anker)

The major benefit to Qi2 is the ring of magnets in the back, positioned around the wireless charging coil. These are designed to connect to other magnets in Qi2 wireless chargers, ensuring that the coils in your device and the charger are perfectly positioned every single time. Anyone that’s ever had to shift their devices around to start wireless charging will know how frustrating that process can be.

That instant positioning also ensures that your phone is able to wirelessly charge more efficiently. Because the coils are in perfect alignment, it means that more power goes into your battery and less power is wasted as a result. Not only does this prevent the lost power turning into heat, which is pretty bad for your phone and battery in high-enough doses, it has the added benefit of speeding up your charging session.

Speaking of which, Qi2 offers noticeably faster charging speeds.Normally Qi1 has a maximum charging speed of 7.5W, which isn’t all that great. Qi2 ups that number to 15W, allowing all Qi2-certified phones to charge at double the speed than before using any Qi2-certified charger.

This speed pales in comparison to some wireless charging speeds, some of which can hit speeds of 80W. However, those speeds are only accomplished by proprietary wireless charging technology, meaning they rely on specialized chargers made by the phone’s manufacturer. Qi2 can’t replace that, but it will ensure faster speeds for all those times where you can’t use the official charger.

Qi2 also offers adaptive charging speeds, which is new for wireless charging, rather than fixed power output. This allows your phone and charger to communicate, ensuring that no unnecessary power is sent through. Not only does this boost efficiency, it’s another feature that helps prevent excess heat build-up. Again, that’s bad for the long-term health of your phone — and potentially a safety hazard.

Finally, the magnets in the back of the phone opens up the opportunity for non-iPhones to use magnetic accessories. Many iPhone-compatible options are on sale and we’ve seen the likes of magnetic phone stands, grips and tripods already. I’ve also seen magnetic wallets, and wireless charging batteries that snap to the back of your phone. Since MagSafe and Qi2 are compatible, it means all those iPhone accessories will work with Qi2 phones.

How is Qi2 different from MagSafe?

(Image credit: Apple)

Apple’s involvement in the development of Qi2 means that it bears a striking similarity to Apple’s MagSafe. The two are close enough that a casual observer could consider Qi2 as the “MagSafe for Android phones”. But it’s important to remember that they are not identical.

MagSafe is a proprietary standard owned and operated by Apple, and means Apple can do whatever it likes with it. MagSafe phones are Qi2 compatible, but the opposite isn’t necessarily true.Apple increased MagSafe charging speedsforiPhone 16, allowing up to 25W speeds — so long as you buy the new, faster, MagSafe charger. Slap those same phones onto a Qi2 charger, and the most you’ll get is 15W.

MagSafe also features an NFC chip that can communicate with MagSafe chargers. This allows the phone to remember chargers, and any setting you may have set up. For example, if you have specific Standby mode widgets and settings on one charger, but want things set up differently for another, MagSafe can remember this and act accordingly. Qi2 can not.

MagSafe and Qi2 also have different requirements and certification processes. Typically, Apple is a lot more restrictive about what third-party developers are allowed to do if they want to be certified and able to use Apple trademarks — and that’s before you bring up the associated costs. So expect officially-licensed MagSafe accessories to be more expensive than Qi2.

So while MagSafe iPhones are compatible with Qi2, the opposite isn’t true for Qi2 Android phones. Unfortunately, the lack of Qi2 phones on the market means we don’t really know what happens if you try and charge a Qi2 phone with MagSafe. Android phones can wirelessly charge with a MagSafe charger at Qi1 speeds, so there shouldn’t be an issue of compatibility. We just don’t know if Qi2 phones will get a Qi2 experience or if the charger will default to Qi1.

Which phones actually support Qi2 right now?

(Image credit: HMD)

There aren’t many phones that support Qi2 right now, and the overwhelming majority of them are MagSafe iPhones. Qi2 chargers will still wirelessly charge phones that support Qi1, but your experience will be identical to using an ordinary Qi1 charger — unless you’ve invested in amagnetic phone case that ensures perfect alignment.

Here are all the phone that can charge with Qi2 wireless charging.

  • iPhone 12series (including mini, Pro and Pro Max)
  • iPhone 13series (including mini, Pro and Pro Max)
  • iPhone 14series (including Plus, Pro and Pro Max
  • iPhone 15series (including Plus, Pro and Pro Max)
  • iPhone 16series (including Plus, Pro and Pro Max)
  • HMD Skyline

That’s right, currently the only Android phone that supports Qi2 is the HMD Skyline, a mid-range $499 phone that’s been built for DIY repairs. While not a bad phone, it’s certainly not the kind of place you’d expect to see brand new technology debut.

Rumor has it that theSamsung Galaxy S25could feature Qi2, so hopefully this list gets to expand a little bit over the next 12 months. But until that happens, this is what you’ve got.

Best Android phones with expandable storage 2025

You can increase your internal storage on these Android phones.

Whether you carry your media library with you, shoot a lot of 4K videos, or are looking to download a few movies ahead of a long commute, having a phone with expandable storage is essential for lots of users. 

Thankfully, plenty of options are still available, although most of them are budget phones or mid-rangers with a few compromises here and there. Still, you might be surprised by the quality of the phones I’ve gathered for this guide. Some of these devices may even come with features you didn’t expect, such as 3.5mm headphone jacks and 120Hz displays.

For thebest Android phoneswith expandable storage, all you need is a stellar microSD card and you’ll be all set to store as much data on your device as needed. With theright memory card, you can even store your apps on the external storage.

Best overall

1. CMF Phone 1

Best overall

Specifications

Display:6.67-inch 120Hz OLED (LTPS), 2400 x 1080 (395 PPI), 2000 nits peak brightness, 240Hz touch sampling, HDR10+

Chipset:MediaTek Dimensity 7300 5G

Memory & storage:6GB/8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB Storage

Main camera:50MP, ƒ/1.8, EIS, 79-degree FoV, Ultra XDR

Front camera:16MP

Battery & charging:5,000mAh, 33W wired charging

Water and dust resistance:Dust and splash resistant

Reasons to buy

+Bright and beautiful AMOLED display
+Hardware can be customized
+Quick processor
+Three years of software updates
+Excellent cameras

Reasons to avoid

-No NFC
-5G support isn’t great in the U.S.
-No headphone jack

Expandable storage has been relegated mainly to budget-tier phones in the past few years which normally means boring designs with disappointing performance, but withNothing CMF Phone 1, you can get microSD expansion in a phone with a flashy and unique design, great cameras, solid performance, and a nice AMOLED display. With a MediaTek Dimensity 730 SoC you’d be forgiven for thinking performance will struggle, but performance is solid with little lag, and even solid gaming performance. It’s not the fastest chip you can get, but it’s more than powerful enough for average day-to-day usage.

The main 50MP camera on the back and the 16MP front camera both punch above their weight with a responsive app and overall good quality. The battery is also good at 5,000mAh with quick 33W charging. The phone is also set to receive two Android updates with three years of security updates, which is solid for this price.

One thing to keep in mind, especially if you’re in the U.S., is that this phone isn’t really designed for the Big Three carriers, but will work on T-Mobile if you don’t mind a few connection drops here and there. The problem is, that the phone just doesn’t support all of the bands common in North America and is more suited to the European market. Still, if you’re looking for something unique and have a carrier using T-Mobile, the CMF Phone 1 is an impressive device.

Best cheap Samsung

(Image credit: Samsung)

2. Samsung Galaxy A25

Best cheap Samsung

Specifications

Display:6.5-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED, 120Hz

Chipset:Exynos 1280

Memory & storage:6GB/8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB, expandable

Main camera:50MP wide, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro

Front camera:13MP

Battery & charging:5,000mAh, 25W wired charging

Water and dust resistance:None

Reasons to buy

+6.5-inch 90Hz AMOLED screen
+Samsung’s usual five-year promise regarding updates
+5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging
+Decent main camera

Reasons to avoid

-So-so performance
-Lacks any IP rating

Craving that signature Samsung look and feel but can’t afford much? Don’t worry, the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G is a fine choice when hunting for phones with expandable storage. The Galaxy A25 gives you a FHD+ Super AMOLED panel that measures 6.5 inches wide and has an impressive 120Hz screen refresh rate.

Now this is nearly an entry-level device, but it has just enough going for it that it sits a notch above that banner. For instance, theSamsung phoneis kept alive by a gigantic 5,000mAh cell. You also get a headphone jack and a 50MP main camera, even though it doesn’t hold a candle against the photographic capabilities of the Galaxy S series of Samsung phones.

You get the Exynos 1280 chipset from the oldGalaxy A53 5G, which is okay for everyday usage and light multitasking but stutters during intensive gaming sessions. Still, if you must have acheap Samsungwithin a very tight budget, the A25 5G is a decent option.

>>>EB-BA256ABS Battery for Samsung Galaxy A25 5G A55 A256

Best with stylus

3. Moto G Stylus 5G (2024)

Best with stylus

Specifications

Display:6.7-inch, 120Hz AMOLED

Chipset:Snapdragon 6 Gen 1

Memory & storage:8GB RAM, 128GB or 256GB storage

Main camera:50MP wide, 13MP ultrawide

Front camera:32MP

Battery & charging:5,000mAh, 30W wired charging, 15W wireless charging

Water and dust resistance:Water-repellent

Reasons to buy

+Nice 120Hz OLED screen
+Solid camera performance for the price
+Outstanding battery and fast charging
+Comfortable feel with vegan leather

Reasons to avoid

-Only water-repellent, no IP rating
-One platform update
-Fingerprint sensor can be slow

TheMoto G Stylus 5G (2024)is a popular budget phone thanks to its solid performance with a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC paired with 8GB of RAM. This phone has a nice AMOLED display with up to 120Hz refresh rate and 1,200 nits of peak brightness so you can see it outdoors. This phone comes with a 5,000mAh battery pack that can charge at up to 30W wired and 15W wireless.

The camera system is also solid with a 50MP main shooter and a 13MP ultrawide camera. You can take some nice pictures in good lighting, but keep an eye on storage. You can get it with either 128GB or 256GB of storage, so expanding this phone with a microSD card will be a must for some. It also has a 3.5mm headphone jack so you may also want the storage to hold your favorite music so you can save some data.

This phone ships with Android 14, and its performance is solid, however, Motorola is only planning to give this phone a single Android version update. With phones from Samsung and Google offering much longer support, it’s a bit disappointing that Motorola is sticking to just one. Still, if you don’t mind the older operating system, strong 5G band support makes this a great phone to bring to other carriers.

>>>MD50 Battery for Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G

Best premium pick

(Image credit: Sony)

4. Sony Xperia 1 V

Best premium pick

Specifications

Display:6.5-inch, OLED, 1B colors, HDR

Chipset:Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

Memory & storage:12GB RAM, 256GB or 512GB, expandable

Main camera:48MP wide,12MP ultrawide, 12MP telephoto

Front camera:12MP

Battery & charging:5,000mAh, 30W wired charging

Water and dust resistance:IP65/IP68

Reasons to buy

+The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is still fast
+Strong sub-6 5G support
+Water and dust resistant IP65/IP68
+Large 5,000mAh battery with 30W charging

Reasons to avoid

-Expensive
-Software support could be better

Memory card expansion and 3.5mm headphone jacks have become all but extinct in high-end Androids. Good thing Sony doesn’t seem to be bothered by what the rest of the industry is doing and has release the Xperia 1 V with both. This phone comes with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC that was common in flagships from 2023, but it’s still plenty powerful for any app you’ll find on the app store. It’s got 12GB of RAM and ships with 256GB of built-in storage.

Available in either green or black, this is a sleek phone with three cameras on the back. It has a 48MP main cameras with a 12MP telephoto and 12MP ultrawide camera playing backup. Another rarity this phone ships with is a 3.5mm headphone jack. Headphone jacks aren’t necessarily a budget feature and many of the best Sony headphones ever made use a wire, so it’s nice that Sony has kept it around.

Software support could be better on this phone, though it has been updated to Android 14 already. Sony’s phones are often targeted at creators, and if you want to get high-quality video off of your memory card in a hurry, you’ve also got a USB-C 3.2 port with 5Gbps speeds supported.

Best value

5. OnePlus Nord N30 5G

Best value

Specifications

Display:6.72-inch 120Hz LCD

Chipset:Snapdragon 695 5G

Memory & storage:8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB UFS 2.2, expandable

Main camera:108MP wide, 2MP macro, 2MP depth

Front camera:16MP

Battery & charging:5,000mAh, 50W SUPERVOOC ultra-fast charging

Water and dust resistance:IP54

Reasons to buy

+Three years of security updates
+Superb 50W wired fast charging
+120Hz LCD screen feels good
+Great build quality

Reasons to avoid

-108MP camera is gimmicky
-Only one major platform update

Like so many of the best budget Android phones, theOnePlus Nord N30 5Gsports the 6nm Snapdragon 695 5G chipset. You can insert a microSD card in the slot and add more storage in a jiffy. It’s an oldie, but a goldie.

The Nord N30 5G has a lot of neat features, but the coolest one of them all is the 50W SUPERVOOC charging. Now that’s an incredibly fast charging speed that you certainly won’t find on any other phone with expandable storage.

The 108MP camera sounds amazing, but it’s actually more of a buzzword. As per our testing, the picture quality could be better. You will appreciate the snappy 6.27-inch 120Hz IPS LCD display though.

OnePlus only promises one OS update for this model, but you get three years of guaranteed security updates. Since Android 15 is on the horizon, you won’t get anything beyond Android 14 on the Nord N30. But the phone is still a worthwhile purchase in 2024.

Best value T-Mobile

(Image credit: HMD)

6. Nokia G310

Best value T-Mobile

Specifications

Display:6.56-inch IPS LCD

Chipset:Snapdragon 480+ 5G

Memory & storage:4GB RAM, 128GB storage, expandable

Main camera:50MP wide, 2MP macro, 2MP depth

Front camera:8MP

Battery & charging:5,000mAh, 20W wired charging

Water and dust resistance:Resistant

Reasons to buy

+Low cost or free with a plan
+Large 5000mAh battery with 30W charging
+Support for 5G on T-Mobile
+Repairable with parts at iFixit

Reasons to avoid

-Fairly slow SoC
-Not Android 14

HMD, the company that makes Nokia phones, has stayed focused on budget-friendly Androids and it continues to make some of the cheapest new phones available. The G310 is exclusive to T-Mobile carriers in the United States and comes in at well under $200. The Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset not only gives the phone enough power for social media and messaging apps but also full 5G connectivity on T-Mobile’s sub-6 5G network.

It has a 50MP main camera on the back for decent pictures in well-lit environments. and a 5,000mAh battery that can easily make it to the end of the day. The screen is also a plus with a 6.56-inch IPS LCD running at up to 90Hz. If you like music, you’ve got a 3.5mm headphone jack as well as Bluetooth. You can even repair this phone withparts available at iFixit.

Keep in mind that this phone is only designed to work with T-Mobile, so bringing it to a Verizon or AT&T-based carrier likely won’t work out. Still, for the low price, this phone is a good fit for T-Mobile.

How to choose

With most of thebest Android phonesmoving away from expandable storage, you might think the format is becoming a dying breed, but don’t panic just yet. There are still plenty of great phones with microSD support, though the vast majority of them are budget offerings. Grab some of the best microSD cards, and you’ll be able to expand your storage with ease.

While its limited availability and carrier support mean its not the right pick for everyone, the CMF Phone 1 is a surprisingly great phone, especially when your remember it’s $200. The phone has a quick MediaTek SoC, a strong camera, and solid battery life. With three years of updates planned with two Android updates, this phone punches above its weight in several categories.

In terms of full-blown flagships that offer expandable storage, you’re out of luck with the latest releases. You won’t find a microSD slot in the Galaxy S24 lineup or the Pixel 9 series. You’re better off with mid-range value phones such as the Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) or the OnePlus Nord N30 5G. You’ll find the internals to be solid in both phones, pushing out smooth performance consistently. Both devices are great hits in the camera and battery departments, too.

Not everyone that wants expandable storage is shopping for acheap Android phone. The Sony Xperia 1 V is an expensive phone that’s hard to recommend over the like of Samsung Galaxy and OnePlus, but it’s one of the few high-end phones to keep the memory card expansion around. It also has a 3.5mm headphone jack making it a strong pick for content creators, or headphone enthusiasts.

TP-Link TL-WR1502X Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router review

The TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel router is a pocket-sized router with Wi-Fi 6 power, built-in VPN support, and a USB-C power port for ultimate connectivity.


Verdict
The TP-Link AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router combines Wi-Fi 6 technology with a portable footprint and advanced security features, making it frictionless and essential for remote workers, travelers, and security enthusiasts.

Pros

  • +Compact and lightweight
  • +Wi-Fi 6 support
  • +Built-in VPN and security features
  • +USB-Tethering

Cons

  • -Limited Ethernet ports
  • -Slow boot-up

These days, my life is full of technology. Depending on the trip, I have my iPhone,Apple Watch, iPad Mini, MacBook Pro, my wife’s iPhone,Kindle, kids’ tablets, and a smart power station or two. That’s a lot of internet-connected gear when on the go. Not only is it annoying to have to put in a new password for whatever location you are at, but it’s also incredibly insecure.

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Over the last few years, I have stopped connecting to public Wi-Fi, or Wi-Fi, which is not secure altogether. I’ll frequently tether to my iPhone if I am just on one device. But, when I start pulling out multiple devices or if my iPhone cell service isn’t excellent (I’m looking at you, Verizon), I look for a strong and probably ok public Wi-Fi and connect to it, but not with my devices, with my portable router. I do this, plus a VPN to help ensure that my information stays my information, and this little travel router is how I do it.

Can this tiny travel router compare with thebest Wi-Fi routersout there? I put the pocket-sized TP-Link TL-WR1502X Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router to the test.

The TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel router is available all over the place. You can find it on the TP-Links website,Amazon, or other retailers. When writing this sentence, the price is $60 for a single unit.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router

When I opened the box for this router, I immediately noticed how simple everything was. This router seemed too small and too basic-looking to be able to do everything that it was doing. It’s lightweight, with a sleek and durable build. The router, a power adapter, a USB-C cable, a quick start guide, and a simple ethernet cable came in the box.

The compact design is easy enough to tuck in any bag, pocket, or jacket. The unit as a whole can fit in the palm of my hand. Right now, I carry it with me daily in my backpack. And I’m particular about what I am willing to put in my backpack, so that’s a big deal for me to tuck it away. I love the matte black finish and the built-in ventilation, as it helps keep the device from overheating.

Lastly, the port offering is impressive for a small unit, and the ports are placed great on the device, making it easy to use and work with.

Specs

Wi-Fi:Wi-Fi 6
Speeds:Up to 1.5Gbps
Ports:2x Ethernet, 1ssx USB-C for tethering/power, 1x fUSB-A
Features:VPN support, WPA3 security, USB tethering

As I have mentioned, this device is incredibly portable. Still, it’s also quite sturdy, making it a great travel companion because I don’t have to worry about it breaking on me. I’ve had this in my everyday carry backpack that goes everywhere with me for the last few months, and I have not had any issues with this getting damaged or slowing down. It keeps working and working great every time.

So far, I have gotten a lot of use out of this little travel router. I’ve had it with me for a few months now and am thrilled to have it. The older I get, and as time goes on, the more and more paranoid I get about my physical and digital security. In the digital world, one of the things I have sworn not to do anymore is to connect to networks that I do not know or do not manage myself. However, sometimes that is the only option. That’s where my travel router comes into play for one of the many use cases I have it for. I can quickly flip a switch and connect to that coffee shop, VRBO, airport, or even airplane Wi-Fi with my router, throw a VPN on, and then connect with my devices. My work and sensitive information, like bank cards and sensitive documents, are accessible through my Macbook. It would be wild for me not to protect it.

Another way that I have been using my travel router is to connect non-apple devices to my iPhone hotspot or direct USB tether. Most of what I have with me on any given day is Apple; however, for the times that I am testing a different laptop, if I have the Nintendo Switch with me, a portable projector if the kids have a gadget or something like that, this makes it super easy to have specific travel Wi-Fi saved on their devices that they can connect to that isn’t just always my phone.

I have noticed smooth and fast connections when using the Wi-Fi, even from a decent distance away. For example, we stayed at a VRBO rental a few weeks back. I did not want to connect to the provided Wi-Fi, so I connected the ethernet cables to my TP-Link Travel router and ran that as a main router for a week. It worked great across the entire home, with all my devices connected. It handled (up to) five iPhones, two MacBooks, eight iPads, two Apple Watches, and a sound machine/night light, all without skipping a beat.

The only gripe I have with this router is that it takes a minute to boot up, so if I am in a hurry, it can be frustrating to wait for it to boot up and get working. However, if that’s my only frustration, that makes for a pretty incredible device.

AttributesNotesRating
DesignGreat minimalist design⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Material qualityQuality materials⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of useEasy to use⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PracticalityGreat for most⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PriceMid price⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The TP-Link AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 Travel RoutWi-Filivers top-tier performance in a travel-friendly package. With its fast speeds, modern security, and versatile features like VPN and USB tethering, it’s a must-have for anyone needing reliable internet access wherever they go. While it’s priced slightly higher than some competitors, its advanced functionality justifies the investment for frequent travelers or remote workers.

LineageOS 22.1, based on Android 15, is already available for over 100 devices

It only took the LineageOS team three months to add Android 15 support.

The logo for LineageOS 22.

(Image credit: LineageOS)

What you need to know

  • LineageOS 22.1 is here for over 100 devices, based on Android 15 QPR1, with two new system apps.
  • Twelve is a new default music player that replaces Eleven, one of LineageOS’ oldest apps.
  • LineageOS 22.1 supports devices as old as the Pixel 2 series and as new as the Pixel 9 series.

LineageOS, an Android custom ROM project that aims to support both new and old smartphones, is already adding support for Android 15. The teamannounced, that LineageOS 22.1 is rolling out based on the latest Android 15 QPR1. It was able to bringAndroid 15to LineageOS quicker than expected due to the breakthroughs made adapting Android 12 through Android 14, according to the blog post.

“This is far-and-away the easiest bringup cycle from a device perspective we have seen in years,” wrote Nolen Johnson, the developer relations manager for LineageOS, in the blog post. “This means that many more devices are ready on day one that we’d typically expect to have up this early in the cycle.”

Aside from the system improvements brought by Android 15, LineageOS 22.1 includes a few new features and additions. For starters, security patches as recent as November 2024 have been merged to LineageOS 19.1 through 22.1. There are also two new apps: Twelve and Camelot.

Twelve is a brand-new music player that replaces the prior music player, Eleven. As one of the oldest LineageOS apps, the team explained that it was time for a replacement. Eleven was becoming noncompliant with new Android guidelines due to its older codebase, and Twelve is an improved replacement.

>>>G011A-B Battery for Google Pixel 2

(Image credit: LineageOS)

Some of the new app’s highlights include Material You design language and support for tablets and landscape mode. It’ll integrate with major music server protocols, like Subsonic, OpenSubsonic, and Jellyfin. On top of that, there’s better search, improved Android Auto support, and new support for streaming protocols — such as HLS, DASH, and SmoothStreaming.

Camelot is a basic PDF viewer that aims to fill the gap left by LineageOS’ Jelly and WebViews, which can’t open PDF files. It’s described as a simple app based on Google Chrome and Files by Google releases.

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LineageOS will use a decimal integer system moving forward to match Android’s quarterly platform releases (QPRs). LineageOS 22.1 is based on Android 15 QPR1, and a future Android 15 QPR2 update would eventually lead to LineageOS 22.2.

Of course, LineageOS is best known for supporting older devices, and support is excellent out of the gate. You can find more information on the LineageOS Wiki, but over 100 devices are eligible for the latest upgrade on day one. That includes older devices like the Google Pixel 2, and newer ones like the Google Pixel 9 series.

Android Auto rolls into the Polestar 2 to cover some gaps in Android Automotive

Polestar is blending Android Auto right into your Android Automotive ride.

What you need to know

  • The latest software update for Polestar 2, P3.3.16, brings cool upgrades like HD radio and smoother low-speed driving, with wired Android Auto as the main highlight.
  • Android Auto integration was a top request from Polestar 2 owners, as revealed by a Polestar rep in a private Facebook group.
  • The update is rolling out to Polestar 2 models from 2021 onward, available via OTA or service appointments.

Polestar 2 drivers can now enjoy the long-awaited support for wired Android Auto, adding a fresh way to connect your phone and enhance the infotainment experience.

The Polestar 2’s newest softwareupdate, P3.3.16, packs a few nifty upgrades like HD radio and smoother low-speed driving. The highlight, of course, is that wiredAndroid Autois now in the mix, giving drivers the option to blend theirfavorite smartphonefeatures with the car’sAndroid Automotiveoperating system.

As spotted byDroid-Life, a Polestar rep revealed in a private Facebook group that Android Auto integration was one of the most requested features from Polestar 2 owners.

With Android Auto now on board, the Polestar 2 takes its user-friendly approach up a notch, offering seamless connectivity for both major smartphone platforms, alongside the existing CarPlay support.

>>>BLPA97 Battery for OnePlus Nord 4

The Android ecosystem has been getting a number of exciting upgrades this year, including a fresh media player for Android Auto. While Android Auto has been evolving quickly, Android Automotive has been a bit slower to update due to the unique challenges of in-car tech. But now, Polestar 2 owners have something to cheer about with the latest update.

The merge of Android Auto and Android Automotive in the Polestar 2 is a big step forward, giving owners a more flexible and tailored in-car experience by combining the best features of both platforms.

Unlike native Android Automotive, phone-projected Android Auto focuses more on convenience. It makes accessing your personal accounts quicker and simplifies the setup with just a simple USB connection.

This update is rolling out to Polestar 2 models from 2021 onward, arriving via OTA and also available through service appointments.

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Polestar 2 owners still waiting for the Android Auto update might need to hang tight. It’s possible the rollout was paused for a bit over the holiday season.

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Garmin Enduro 3: Which premium Garmin is best?

Garmin Fenix 8

Garmin Fenix 8

The more premium option

The Garmin Fenix 8 is the most premium Garmin, sporting a more vivid display, voice features, and more.

Garmin Enduro 3

Garmin Enduro 3

Cheaper, but still formidable

The Enduro 3 is a cheaper option, doesn’t have the AMOLED display option, but will offer better battery life.

TheGarmin Fenix 8and the Garmin Enduro 3 are tough, multisports watches that are built to go the distance when you do.

These watches give you pretty much the best that Garmin has to offer in tracking, training modes, analysis, and smartwatch features too. All while giving you the kind of battery life that wipes the floor with aspiring outdoor smartwatches like theApple Watch Ultra 2and theSamsung Galaxy Watch Ultra.

If you like the sound of the Fenix 8 and the Enduro 3, but can’t choose between the two, which should you go for? We’ve broken down the key differences between the two watches that will help you decide which is the best fit for you.

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Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3: Price and availability

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3 comparison

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3 comparison

You likely know this already, but these two watches are expensive, so be prepared to shell out big money for them.

Both watches were launched at the same time in August 2024, with the Enduro 3 arriving in one size option just like previous Enduros. If you want an Enduro 3, you can expect to pay$899 for it.

With the Fenix 8, there are multiple sizes and even display options (more on that below) with pricing starting at $999. If you want the biggest Fenix 8 option, that can push the price over$1,000.

The Enduro 3, while still an expensive watch, is the cheaper option by quite a significant amount.

  • Winner: Garmin Enduro 3

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Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3: Design and display  

Fenix 8 solar 47mm, Fenix 8 47mm, Enduro 3

It’s easier to start with the Enduro 3, which as mentioned comes in just one model and size option. It’s got a 51mm polymer case, a titanium bezel, and is partnered up with a nylon strap. It includes a 1.4-inch, 280 x 280 transflective touchscreen display and features Garmin’s latest Power Sapphire lens, giving you an extra battery resource when you’ve exposed that lens to sufficient sunlight during the day.

With the Fenix 8, things get a bit more complicated. First off, you have the option of a Fenix with an AMOLED display or a transflective display with a Power Sapphire lens just like the Enduro 3. There are also more size options to choose from, with the Fenix 8 AMOLED available in 42mm, 47mm, and 51mm sizes. The Fenix 8 with a transflective, solar-powered display is available in 47mm and 51mm versions. That means you can get both Fenix 8 display models in the same size as the Enduro 3’s single case size.

Beyond size and display options, the Fenix 8 AMOLED offers the option of either Gorilla Glass or tougher Sapphire Glass to protect the display against scratches. Opting for the latter does inevitably bump the price up on an already pricey watch.

On the durability front, both the Enduro 3 and the Fenix 8 carry a waterproof rating that makes them safe to submerge in water up to 100 meters depth. In addition to that, the Fenix 8 also features leak-proof, inductive buttons that mean it’s capable of working for recreational diving up to 40 meters depth. If you’re into diving, it’s the Fenix 8 you want.

Last but by no means least, both the Enduro 3 and Fenix 8 include LED flashlights, which are built into the watch case and offer different lighting modes as well as a distress pattern option in case you get into a spot of trouble and need to raise the alarm.

  • Winner: Garmin Fenix 8

also:361-00104-10 Battery for Garmin 361-00104-10

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3: Features

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3 comparison

The Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 are essentially giving you the same set of features bar a few things that you won’t find on the Enduro 3.

These are watches that offer Garmin’s latest multiband GNSS support to deliver more accurate outdoor tracking when tracking workouts near tall buildings or in deeply wooded areas. You’ve got Garmin’s latest generation Elevate optical sensor, which notably adds ECG-style tracking. You’re getting largely the same activity tracking modes here, with the Fenix 8 additionally offering a dedicated diving mode thanks to its leak-proof buttons and added depth sensor.

There’s the best that Garmin has to offer in mapping and navigation support across the Enduro 3 and all versions of the Fenix 8 and that includes the ability to upload routes, make use of turn-by-turn and breadcrumb-style navigation. They also offer new features like dynamic round-trip routing. The AMOLED Fenix invariably offers more vivid, colorful maps, but functionality-wise, they operate in the same way as the ones on the Enduro 3.

There are some differences on the smartwatch front with both offering staples like payments, notifications, music players, and access to Garmin’s Connect IQ storefront. The Enduro 3, however, misses out on Garmin’s new voice-enabled features, which you will find on the Fenix 8. That includes the ability to make Bluetooth calls, access watch modes and data using your voice, and the ability to record and geotag voice notes for those moments when a great idea comes to you out on a big hike. Perhaps a not-so-vital miss for most is the Red Shift mode you do get on the Fenix and not the Enduro, which helps to keep a low profile at night while still keeping the screen visible.

  • Winner: Garmin Fenix 8

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3: Performance and battery life

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3 comparison

Garmin rarely divulges into the hardware that keeps things running smoothly on its watches, but rest assured, the Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 run nice and slick. Both run on Garmin’s latest operating system. That gives you access to a reworked interface that puts apps and smart features much closer to the workout tracking modes.

Both have 32GB of memory giving you a good amount of room to store things like music, apps, maps, and workouts. Performance-wise there are no complaints when moving around menu screens, launching apps, and waiting for a GPS signal to lock on.

In terms of battery life, we’ve had the 51mm Fenix 8 AMOLED to compare to the Enduro 3 and we’d say battery life has been excellent on both. When using the Fenix 8 AMOLED with the screen set to always-on it can get to up to 13 days. If you don’t keep the screen on at all times it can go up to 29 days. The solar power Fenix 8 can offer 30 days in smartwatch mode The Enduro 3 in contrast can last 36 days in smartwatch mode or 90 days when you fully put its solar powers to optimal use.

When it’s time to put the GPS tracking to good use, the Enduro 3 offers significantly more battery life than the Fenix 8 AMOLED and the same-size Fenix 8 solar model. If you’re just using the standard GPS mode the Enduro 3 offers 120 hours compared to 84 hours on the 51mm Fenix 8 AMOLED or 95 hours on the Fenix 8 solar. When you opt for the best GPS accuracy mode, it’s up to 60 hours on the Enduro 3 versus up to 62 hours on the Fenix 8 AMOLED or 52 hours on the Fenix 8 solar.

Our testing showed that the Enduro 3 pushed closer to a month than the 51mm Fenix 8, but both put in a very good showing. You’re certainly not getting shortchanged with either watch.

  • Winner: Draw

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3: Which should you buy?

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3 comparison

Garmin rarely divulges into the hardware that keeps things running smoothly on its watches, but rest assured, the Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 run nice and slick. Both run on Garmin’s latest operating system. That gives you access to a reworked interface that puts apps and smart features much closer to the workout tracking modes.

Both have 32GB of memory giving you a good amount of room to store things like music, apps, maps, and workouts. Performance-wise there are no complaints when moving around menu screens, launching apps, and waiting for a GPS signal to lock on.

In terms of battery life, we’ve had the 51mm Fenix 8 AMOLED to compare to the Enduro 3 and we’d say battery life has been excellent on both. When using the Fenix 8 AMOLED with the screen set to always-on it can get to up to 13 days. If you don’t keep the screen on at all times it can go up to 29 days. The solar power Fenix 8 can offer 30 days in smartwatch mode The Enduro 3 in contrast can last 36 days in smartwatch mode or 90 days when you fully put its solar powers to optimal use.

When it’s time to put the GPS tracking to good use, the Enduro 3 offers significantly more battery life than the Fenix 8 AMOLED and the same-size Fenix 8 solar model. If you’re just using the standard GPS mode the Enduro 3 offers 120 hours compared to 84 hours on the 51mm Fenix 8 AMOLED or 95 hours on the Fenix 8 solar. When you opt for the best GPS accuracy mode, it’s up to 60 hours on the Enduro 3 versus up to 62 hours on the Fenix 8 AMOLED or 52 hours on the Fenix 8 solar.

Our testing showed that the Enduro 3 pushed closer to a month than the 51mm Fenix 8, but both put in a very good showing. You’re certainly not getting shortchanged with either watch.

  • Winner: Draw

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3: Which should you buy?

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3 comparison

Garmin Fenix 8 vs Enduro 3 comparison

We’ll start by saying that these are two of the best watches you can take on an adventure. They’ve got rugged, tough designs, high-quality screens, and offer plenty of battery life. Crucially, they deliver on aspects like GPS accuracy, offer some of the best mapping and navigation support you can find on a sports watch and there’s no shortage of features to tap into inside and outside of your adventuring.

If you’re looking for the best value option, go for the Enduro 3. At its core, it has all of the great Fenix 8 qualities for less money. It might not have an AMOLED screen or some of Garmin’s new voice-enabled smarts, but if you care about having access to Garmin’s best features and getting more battery life in between charges, the Enduro 3 will give you that.

If you like the idea of an outdoor watch that feels more like a smartwatch and arguably offers the best mix of those features outside of something like the Apple Watch Ultra 2, then go for the Fenix 8. It’s a fantastic watch with all you could want and more and still manages to deliver great battery life whichever model you go for, and that includes the AMOLED version.

HMD Rolls Out Android 15 Update: HMD Pulse Pro Gets It First, Here’s What Users Will Get With This Upgrade

Android 15 has been rolled out to HMD phones now. The HMD Pulse Pro has reportedly become the first Nokia smartphone to receive the Android 15 update, as per a recent report. Initially launched in April, the device is powered by an octa-core Unisoc T606 chipset and originally ran on Android 14.

Original collection': HMD introduces Pulse, Pulse Pro, Pulse Plus smartphones with Gen 1 repairability | Technology News - The Indian Express

The newly rolled-out Android 15 update is said to introduce several enhancements to the HMD Pulse Pro, including improved performance, advancements in adaptive battery technology, strengthened privacy and security measures, and a more refined notification management system.

What Does Android 15 Rollout To HMD Pulse Pro Bring To Users?

As reported by NokiaMob, the Android 15 update for the HMD Pulse Pro carries version 2.370 and weighs approximately 3.12GB. The update reportedly focuses on enhancing overall system performance, including faster app launch times, reduced lag, and improved battery management. Additionally, it introduces a smarter power management system designed to analyze user behavior and allocate resources efficiently, thereby extending battery life.

The Android 15 update is also said to bring a more sophisticated notification control system, allowing users greater customization to minimize distractions and focus better by selecting which apps and events can send notifications. Other reported improvements include stricter app permissions, automatic resetting of unused permissions, enhanced data encryption for better security, and the addition of Google’s December Android security patch.

>>>LPN388405 Battery for Nokia X30

Alongside the HMD Pulse Pro, several other smartphones from the Finnish manufacturer are also expected to receive the update. The following is a list of HMD devices anticipated to be upgraded to Android 15:

  • Nokia G42 5G
  • Nokia G60 5G
  • Nokia XR21 5G
  • Nokia X30 5G
  • HMD Pulse series
  • HMD Crest series
  • HMD Fusion
  • HMD Skyline
  • HMD XR21 5G
  • HMD T21

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 review: This is the Kindle you should buy

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 on a table with a pair of glasses.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024

“The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 is the best Kindle for most people, with its gloriously sharp screen making it really enjoyable to read books on.”

Pros

  • Sharp, high-contrast E Ink screen
  • Adjustable warmth
  • Slick performance for ease of use
  • Dark Mode
  • Long battery life
  • Water-resistant

Cons

  • Screen attracts smudges
  • Rear gets easily scuffed

I went from reading on the Amazon Kindle Colorsoft to reading on the 12th-generation Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024, thus giving up the color screen for the monochrome life. The latest Paperwhite is neatly positioned in terms of price between the basic Kindle and the all-new Colorsoft.

Would the Paperwhite turn out to be the best of all worlds or an awkward in-between device that’s hard to recommend? I’ve been finding out.

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Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 specs

Size127.5 x 176.7 x 7.8mm
Weight211g
Display7-inch, front-lit300ppi, 16-level greyscale
Storage16GB
Battery lifeUp to 12 weeks
Charging9W wired
DurabilityIPX8
ColorsBlack, Raspberry, Jade

The new Paperwhite has an ordinary design

Kindle Paperwhite 2024 Review: Great, But Upgrades Are Incremental

I’m reviewing the black version of the Kindle Paperwhite, and unfortunately, it’s not the most exciting-looking piece of tech I’ve used. Choose the Jade or Raspberry versions, or put it in some kind of case if you want to give its looks a bit of life. You’d be wise to use a case right from the start anyway, as even after 10 days of normal use — at home and on the move, so in and out of backpacks and pockets — the soft-touch rear has picked up some unsightly scuffs.

That gets the main negative about the 2024 Kindle Paperwhite’s design out of the way. At 7.8mm thick and 128mm wide, it’s a joy to hold. The 211-gram weight is just right to keep the device balanced without introducing fatigue, and it has an IPX8 water resistance rating. However, I appreciatethat it’s right for my hands and recognize that those with smaller hands may struggle with the overall size a little. Thebasic Kindleisn’t as wide and only a tiny bit thicker, so it may be the better choice for some.

A reason for the change in width comes from the 7-inch screen, up from the 6-inch screen on the Kindle, and an increase from the previous 11th-generation Kindle Paperwhite’s 6.8-inch screen too. A larger screen means more text can be displayed and there are fewer page turns. It’s the same size as the Kindle Colorsoft, so there were no differences for me to spot, but it’s a significant enough change for owners of older Paperwhite models with a 6-inch screen to consider upgrading.

I did notice the slight weight reduction from the 219-gram Colorsoft to the 211-gram Paperwhite, with the color reader feeling more substantial due to it. The Paperwhite’s rear panel also has a slightly different texture and more of a matte finish compared to the Colorsoft. It’s more of a traditional Kindle look and feel and isn’t quite as high quality. The power button is on the bottom of the e-reader, and I find I press it by accident, especially when I put it in my pocket — yes, it fits in my jeans pocket — or bag.

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New and improved screen

The 12th-generation Kindle Paperwhite has a new high contrast e-ink screen with a 300 pixels-per-inch (ppi) density, plus internal performance improvements mean page turns are supposed to be 25% faster than on the previous generation. If there is a difference in page turn speed, it’s very hard to spot, but the Paperwhite does move along at a decent enough pace, so it’s never frustrating to use.

The screen is responsive when pulling down the menu, changing the font size, and swiping between pages. I can’t see any difference in performance between it and the Kindle Colorsoft when reading books. Text and magazines, but not comics so much, look brilliant on the Paperwhite’s sharp, bright screen, and any accompanying monochrome images get the point across, just not as vibrantly as on the Colorsoft.

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 showing a magazine cover.

Comparing the Colorsoft’s screen to the Paperwhite’s showed an unexpected difference. The Paperwhite has a lovely warm glow to it, with astonishingly sharp letters and a tone most would associate with real paper. The Colorsoft’s screen is far cooler and has a tangible yellowness (no, notthatyellowness) to the screen when set at maximum brightness and warmth. Reduce the warmth setting to zero, and the Paperwhite’s screen still has a paper quality to it, while the Colorsoft’s screen has what I’d call a “daylight” tone. It’s not harsh. It’s just not quite as friendly as the Paperwhite’s screen.

You can get an idea of the difference in the example photo above, but the camera does make its own adjustments for the difficult conditions, and the actual real-world view isn’t quite as severe. I really enjoyed reading on the Colorsoft and was surprised at the difference between the two devices, so I don’t see it as a negative. I don’t think one is more pleasurable to look at than the other, but if all you’ll ever do is read books without pictures, the Paperwhite will give you a more paper-like experience.

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Forget the comparisons for a moment

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 with Dark Mode active on a magazine page.

While it’s important to note these considerable differences between the Paperwhite and Colorsoft, I want to talk about what it’s like to use and read only on the Paperwhite for a bit. I stopped buying physical books, for the most part, years ago because I didn’t have the space needed for them (I hoard, unfortunately), and the Kindle took over. It took a bit to adjust, but only in terms of in-hand feel and performance and not because of the text on the page. Reading on the Paperwhite is lovely, from holding the device to scanning the words on the screen.

The Paperwhite’s additional speed improves the experience as there’s barely a pause between page turns, but more importantly, it’s also smoother with less flicker and sudden dimming. It’s easier on the eyes and makes reading more pleasurable. This is ultimately what I want. Words on a Kindle book page may not be as solid and “romantic” as words on a paper page for some people, but once you get past the fact that it’s digital and not physical, reading on a Kindle is really enjoyable. Adding speed and flicker-free performance minimizes the electronic barriers.

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 with Dark Mode active on a book page.

I also really like the Dark Mode setting. Many will be familiar with this from their smartphone, and it works in the same way on the Kindle Paperwhite. It replaces the color inverter setting, where the black and white colors were reversed, and applies systemwide. The black background is deep and text is very sharp, plus because it’s part of the software itself, it looks entirely natural and doesn’t suffer from any white color bleeding like the old color inverter setting could.

The Paperwhite 2024 does not have an auto-adjustment for the front light, and you have to pay even more for the Paperwhite Signature Edition to get it. After wrangling with the often unreliable auto-brightness on the Colorsoft and eventually resorting to just setting it myself, I haven’t missed it and certainly wouldn’t pay more for the feature on its own. I love the Paperwhite’s flat screen and its matte, glare-free finish, but it does attract smudges.

Low maintenance

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 with Dark Mode active.
The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 showing a magazine page.
An Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 on a table.

What I like most, and really the most important thing to understand about the Kindle in general, is its incredibly low maintenance. Once you’ve got the settings how you like, there’s almost no need to ever visit the settings page again, leaving you free to pick it up and read when you want. This convenience even extends to waking the Kindle up with the power button, which immediately puts you back on the page where you left off. There’s no opening apps or dealing with cloud-loading times here.

You can purchase books directly from the Kindle store on your Kindle, but even if you use Amazon online on your laptop, your purchases sync practically straightaway. The Paperwhite’s Wi-Fi has been utterly reliable, the initial setup is easy and mostly performed through the Kindle app on your phone, and there’s Bluetooth to pair headphones and listen to audiobooks. Unlike your phone or tablet, once you’re done setting everything up, there’s not much else to do apart from reading on it, as there are no notifications to interrupt you either.

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024's charging port.
The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024's settings page.

I’ve been reading on the Paperwhite for 10 days, usually for about an hour a day, and the battery has dropped from 100% to 85%. Amazon suggests you’ll get 12 weeks of use out of a single charge, and this seems achievable. It’s recharged using a USB-C cable plugged into the bottom of the device. At a mere 9 watts, it won’t charge as fast as your phone — expect it to take two-and-a-half hours — but seeing as you’ll only do it every few months rather than each day, it’s unlikely to be an issue. All of this means the Kindle Paperwhite is a relaxing device to own and use, making it perfect for quietly enjoying a book.

Is the Paperwhite the Kindle to buy?

An Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2024 next to a cup of coffee.

The Kindle Paperwhite has long been the sweet spot for Kindle buyers, with the desirable front light and adjustable display, durability, and higher-contrast screen making it more practical for not much more money than thestandard Kindle. The slicker performance and larger screen of the latest version make it even more modern and more pleasurable to use.

You are paying another $50 over the basic $110 Kindle for these features, and although the $160 price is higher than it has ever been, the Paperwhite is still going to please most people. While the basic Kindle is also better than ever, it is still a compromise, and we’d recommend spending just a little more to get the Paperwhite so you can enjoy reading books everywhere you go, at all times.

Amazon’s extensive Kindle range means you can spend more on your e-readers, too. Unfortunately, the Kindle Colorsoft looks like a pretty poor value when you understand that having the color screen will mean you’ve got to spend$280 for the pleasure. I recently switched from one to the other and can tell you I’ve hardly missed the color screen. I really only thought about it when I glanced at the library page, where seeing a splash of color was always nice.

Amazon makesa second Paperwhite model, which it calls the Signature Edition, and it comes with 32GB of internal storage rather than 16GB, wireless charging, and auto-brightness. Reviewing the Colorsoft definitely showed me how an e-reader doesn’t always greatly benefit from frills, and the Signature Edition is the Paperwhite with frills you probably don’t really need.

What all this means is that the Paperwhite is still the Kindle you should buy, but if you’d rather spend less, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with the basic Kindle. What I don’t think you need to do is spendmoreon a Kindle, though. It’s best to keep reading a relatively no-frills affair.

DJI Mini 4K review: your best first drone

If you’re more interested in flying than taking aerial selfies, the Mini 4K beats the Neo

 Verdict
The DJI Mini 4K is the most capable drone for beginners for the money. It’s effectively a minor update of DJI’s entry-level Mini 2 SE, upping video quality from 2.7K to 4K, which also unleashes a 2x digital zoom to get closer footage of your surroundings. Otherwise, it’s as you were for DJI’s cheapest Mini-series drone; a 3-axis gimbal, reasonable Level 5 wind resistance, flight times of up to 31 minutes and an arsenal of easy flight moves with DJI’s handy Fly app. If you’re just getting started with drones, the Mini 4K is an excellent value option.

Pros

  • +Excellent value
  • +4K video quality beats rivals
  • +Probably your best first drone

Cons

  • -No object-collision sensors
  • -Lacks subject tracking found in pricier models like the Mini 4 Pro

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DJI Mini 4K: one-minute review

Considering that theDJIMini4Kis thebest budget drone for beginners, it made an understated entrance. There were no bells and whistles, just a quiet appearance on Amazon, and I can see why: it’s essentially the same drone as DJI’s previous entry-level model, theMini 2 SE, only with higher-resolution 4K video, which also enables a 2x digital zoom.

Video quality is further bolstered by a higher 100Mbps bitrate, but otherwise this is almost an identical drone to the Mini 2 SE. That’s no bad thing – DJI has addressed the former’s single weakness – ‘just’ 2.7K video – and priced its successor aggressively. In one fell swoop, DJI outgunned the growing competition, which includes capable rivals such as thePotensic Atom.

Since the Mini 4K was launched, DJI announced an all-new drone, theDJI Neo, which is even cheaper than the Mini 4K and shoots 4K video. However, the half-size selfie drone is an altogether different proposition. If you want the traditional drone-flying experience, complete with a 3-axis mechanical gimbal and sturdier flight performance including level 5 wind resistance, the Mini series, in which the Mini 4K is the new entry-level model, remains your best bet. If you want even simpler operation, and smart AI-subject tracking features, the Neo is a fun alternative.

The Mini 4K offers decent battery life of up to 31 minutes on a single charge, and if you opt for the pricier Fly More Combo bundle you’ll get an extra couple of batteries and charging hub thrown in for good measure.

DJI offers perhaps the most rounded experience for beginner pilots, with clear tutorials on the DJI Fly app, through which you control the Mini 4K’s flights, complete with a scaled-back selection of DJI Quickshots flight moves, including dynamic movements such as Helix, Circle and Boomerang that will quickly elevate the quality of your aerial videos.

If money is no object, theDJI Mini 4 Proremains the most accomplished sub-250g choice, with its clever subject tracking and industry-leading flight safety features like omnidirectional object sensing. But if you simply want to see what all the fuss is about with drones without risking a huge amount of money, you can’t go wrong with the DJI Mini 4K. It’s excellent value, and the most capable sub-$300 drone on the market, even if the Neo has more flight options.

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DJI Mini 4K: release date and price

  • Released April 29 2024
  • Not available from the DJI store in Australia
  • The base kit costs just $299 
  • Fly More Combo bundle costs $449 

The DJI Mini 4K was announced in April 2024, and is aggressively priced at $299 for the base kit, which made it DJI’s cheapest 4K drone until theDJI Neowas launched in September 2024 (though as mentioned the Neo is a different kind of drone). That launch price was 10% cheaper than that of the DJI Mini 2SE, which is practically the same drone as the Mini 4K, although the former only shoots 2.7K video, making the Mini 4K excellent value by comparison.

Should you want the Fly More Combo bundle, which includes an additional two batteries, a charging hub and a shoulder bag, the price jumps up to $449. The Mini 4K is currently not directly available from DJI in Australia.

  • Price score: 4.5/5

DJI Mini 4K: specs

Camera:12MP 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor
Video resolution:Up to 4K
Frame rates:4K up to 30fps / 2.7K up to 60fps / FHD up to 60fps
Video transmission range:10km (FCC), 6km (CE/SRRC/MIC)
Flight modes:Sport, Normal, QuickShots (Dronie, Helix, Rocket, Circle and Boomerang)
Battery:2,250mAh / up to 31 minutes flight time
Charger type:USB-C / Battery Charging Hub
Weight:8.68oz / 246g
Dimensions:138 x 81 x 58mm (folded) / 248 x 289 x 56mm (unfolded)

>>>BWX161-2250-7.7 Battery for DJI Mini 2 Drone

DJI Mini 4K: design and handling

  • Weighs less than 250g
  • Level 5 wind resistance provides reasonably stable flight
  • Three-axis gimbal for smooth video footage
  • Downward-facing sensors only, no other obstacle avoidance

The DJI Mini 4K is practically a carbon copy of the Mini 2 SE. That means it remains under 250g, and within the regulator-friendly category for most regions (there are no registration or ID requirements for recreational use in the US). Given that it has a camera though, users in the UK will need to register with the CAA for a flyer ID before taking flight.

The Fly More Combo bundle I tested includes replacement propellors and a screwdriver for when you need to swap out old or damaged propellors for new ones, two spare batteries and a charging hub, plus the RC-N1C remote controller. The controller connects to your phone, with a clamp that extends to hold just about any size of phone, plus it comes with USB-C / Lightning cables for a direct connection to your Android phone or older iPhone.

There’s a single camera, capable of shooting 12MP photos in JPEG or raw (DNG) format (the latter provides more editing flexibility) and video up to 4K. The camera is supported by a three-axis mechanical gimbal to ensure that your video footage is as smooth as possible.

Once you have the DJI’s Fly app installed and your phone connected to the controller, it takes little to no time to get airborne: press and hold the take-off button and the Mini 4K will rise to a height of 1.2m, and hover while you get yourself in the zone for flying.

Wind resistance is rated for up to level 5 – that’s up to 19-24mph / 29-38kph, which is slightly more robust than the DJI Neo, which is only rated up to level 4. I found the Mini 4K was able to withstand a moderate breeze, although of course you can hear and see it fighting to remain stable in such conditions, and I’d advise against attempting to fly in properly windy conditions.

The Fly app, together with the controller, offer several functions: Return to Home (RTH), QuickShots flight moves, and a variety of camera modes, including photo and video capture (with a button on the controller to switch between the two), panorama, and Timed Shot (interval shooting).

If you’re getting started with drones, the Mini 4K has plenty for you to sink your teeth into. One notable omission, though, which you won’t find on a drone at this price point, is obstacle avoidance. There are two downward-facing sensors that assist the drone for landing and can detect objects, with a precision range of 0.5-10m, but you’re not getting the sophisticated omnidirectional obstacle avoidance of the pricierMini 4 Pro.

I’ve been using the Mini 4K with the RC-N1C controller for months, and naturally, without obstacle avoidance crashes are almost inevitable. However, I’ve found that the Mini 4K has withstood minor collisions with tree branches and so on, and the consequent tumbling to the ground, admirably. It might be plastic, but the Mini 4K can take a few knocks.

You can register for DJI Care Refresh within 48 hours of activating the Mini 4K, which covers you for two replacements, water damage and flyaway, and which is probably a good idea if you tend to be more gung-ho rather than overly cautious.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

DJI Min 4K: features and performance

  • Quickshots for easy flight moves
  • Normal, Sport and Cine flight modes
  • Decent battery life of up to 31 minutes
  • Maximum transmission 10km (FCC) / 6km (CE/SRRC/MIC)

DJI lists the Mini 4K’s flight time as up to 31 minutes, but that’s measured in a controlled setting. What you actually get in real-world use is almost certainly less, and will be influenced by factors including wind speed and the flight maneuvers you’re performing, and overall it’s better to keep your expectations on the lower side. That said, with typical use in moderate wind I was averaging over 20 minutes, and I’m not sure that you’ll find a better battery performance in another drone at this level.

I was also armed with the two additional batteries included in the Fly More Combo, effectively tripling flight times on any given outing, and the charging hub can be topped up on-the-go via USB-C.

The maximum transmission range is up to 10km, depending on what region you’re flying in and what level of interference there is where you’re flying. Users in Europe, for example, are restricted to 6km. In any case, beginners are unlikely to get anywhere near those kinds of distances on a single flight, and you’ll need to make sure that Return to Home is set up for your take-off point in the likely event you get disorientated as to the drone’s position.

You can configure the Mini 4K’s max possible altitude and flight distances, and the height at which it rises to when Return to Home is initiated. There’s a 500m altitude cap, although if you’re playing it safe as a beginner you should stick to 150m or lower, which will likely be the legal limit in your region anyway if you don’t have a certificate of competency. Again, max distance can be set up to 5000m or the limit removed entirely, but when you’re starting out it’s probably a good idea to stick to much closer. The Mini 4K is fed all of this data through GPS + GLONASS + Galileo satellite systems.

On the controller you’ll find three flight modes: Cine, Normal and Sport, each with a different max speed and responsiveness. Cine mode is the slowest of the three, designed to get you the smoothest possible aerial videos, while of course Sport is the niftiest to unleash piloting fun.

Flight speeds in Sport mode top out at 35.79mph and are no match for FPV drones in manual mode such as theDJI Avata 2, but are plenty quick enough while you find your feet and build your piloting skills. Cine mode is significantly slower than that.

And then there’s DJI QuickShots flight moves, which include Dronie, Helix, Rocket, Circle, and Boomerang. Circle performs a lateral 360-degree move around your chosen subject – you simply select suggested subjects or draw a box around the chosen subject, and off the drone goes into action. Boomerang does a similar move while gradually gaining height.

These simple flight moves can improve the quality of your aerial videos as you center on points of interest around you. Other DJI drones have additional QuickShots moves in Spotlight and Follow. The Mini 4K does not offer Follow, and it lacks Follow Me subject tracking, which you get with pricier models and even the new Neo selfie drone.

  • Features score: 4.5/5

DJI Mini 4K: image and video quality

  • 1/2.3-inch sensor
  • Up to 4K 30fps video, 2.7K up to 60fps
  • 12MP JPEG + RAW photos

The Mini 4K’s 1/2.3-inch sensor is larger than the sensor found in the Neo, and smaller than the one in theMini 3and Mini 4 Pro drones. As such, its 4K video image quality sits somewhere in the middle in terms of color depth, dynamic range and low-light clarity.

That sensor size is roughly equivalent to what you’d find in a standard smartphone, only you don’t have the computational photography modes andHDRsettings afforded to today’s handsets; if the sun is directly in your shot, expect blown-out highlights. However, I still found detail to be very sharp at first light before the sun lapped over the landscape.

Video resolution tops out at 4K 30fps, while cinematic half-speed 60fps videos can be shot in 2.7K and Full HD resolutions. Photos are up to 12MP (in 4:3 aspect, with a 16:9 cropped format also available) and can be shot in either JPEG or raw, with the latter offer more editing flexibility. Files are recorded onto microSD card, with compatibility for cards up to 256GB.

DJI has upped the maximum video bitrate to 100Mbps (it was 40Mbps in the Mini 2 SE). So not only does the Mini 4K offer higher-resolution video than the Mini 2 SE, but its 2.7K video is also less compressed.

There’s a standard color profile for photo and video – what you see is what you get. However, you can easily edit the colors in raw DNG format photos in your choice of photo editor. If you’re a keen editor, you’ll probably want to shoot photos in both raw and JPEG, just in case the JPEG photos aren’t to your taste. However, there’s no flat color profile for video, which is pretty normal for a beginner drone, so there’s not much scope for color-grading videos.

What’s unusual for a drone at this price point is that you can switch from the Mini 4K’s Auto setting to a Pro mode for manual control over exposure settings for photo and video, including the 1/30 to 1/8000 shutter speed and ISO 100 to 3200 ranges. That’s an excellent feature for discerning image makers, though I suspect most people will keep the Mini 4K in Auto and be pleased with the results.

The three-axis gimbal offer a -110° to 35° tilt range, -35° to 35° of roll and -20° to 20° pan, and works in tandem with image stabilization to give you smooth video footage. Unless you’re fighting high winds or making jerky movements on the controller – which requires significant finesse – then you can expect super-smooth video footage, especially in Cine mode.

  • Image quality score: 4.5/5

Should I buy the DJI Mini 4K?

Buy it if…

You’re buying your first drone
The Mini 4K is a superb first drone, with decent flight performance and video quality, plus manual control over camera settings.

You want decent battery life
Up to 31 minutes from a fully charged battery is very impressive, and you’ll get triple that with the Fly More Combo kit.

Don’t buy it if…

You want the very best sub-250g drone no matter the cost
If money is no object, your best first drone is the DJI Mini 4 Pro.

You’re more interested in aerial selfies than flying
DJI’s Neo is smaller, cheaper and even easier to use, with intelligent subject tracking making selfies on the move an autonomous doddle.

You’d be better off with obstacle avoidance
The Mini 4K only has downward-facing sensors primarily designed to aid landing, whereas the Mini 4 Pro has omnidirectional obstacle avoidance that’ll help you avoid crashes.

Samsung XR headset —Google just gave us our first look at what the apps will look like

Here’s what using Samsung’s upcoming XR headset might be like

android xr example footage

(Image credit: Google)

We know thatSamsung has its own XR headsetthat will arrive at some point over the next 12 months. But beyond a few minor hardware details, like the fact it’ll run on aSnapdragon XR Plus Gen 2 chip, the device is still a complete mystery. But we may have just got our first look at what the headset’s interface and apps might look like.

This isn’t a leak per-se, since this glimpse comes directly from theAndroid XR developer blog. Since we know that the Samsung headset (aka Project Moohan) will run onAndroid XR, this is our best possible look at what the headset might be like — second only to a demonstration from Samsung itself.

(Image credit: Samsung)

The blog post features a six-second video showing off a handful of app windows overlain over the real world. While brief it does show how app windows might look if you were wearing an Android XR headset, though unsurprisingly they don’t look much different from app windows on an Android tablet.

Android XR also offers users the option to switch between two modes called Home Space and Full Space. Home Space is a multitasking view with multiple app windows, and what seems to be your real-world surroundings in the background.

also：Samsung Galaxy Buds+TWS Replacement Battery

Home Space (left) vs Full Space (right)(Image credit: Google)

Meanwhile Full Space only offers a single window at a time, with a virtual background. HomeSpace is the default view, and the button essentially switches back and forth from the full-screen mode.

Presumably such a feature would also be available on Samsung’s headset, though the actual design of the windows may differ. After all, Samsung Galaxy phones run on Android, but the One UI interface means that things look a little different than they do on other phones. There could be similar differences with the stock version of Android XR compared to Samsung’s take — with windows possibly even taking some design cues from the upcomingOne UI 7.

also：Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro EP-QR190 Replacement Battery

android xr example footage

(Image credit: Google)

Googlealso confirmed that Android XR will support multiple inputs, including hand and eye tracking, voice control, keyboard and mouse, plus dedicated controllers. Hand tracking also enables gesture control, including a pinch gesture similar to the one we’ve already seen onApple Vision ProandApple Watch 9.

We’re expecting to see more of Project Moohan at CES 2025, which starts on January 7. So we should be seeing a lot more information about the headset, and what Samsung has in store for us, in the next couple of weeks.