Pixel 9a
Alright, we’re back. And so is Google. They dropped the Pixel 9a and everyone has a take. Let’s get into it
The Google Pixel 9a dropped on March 26, and with the announcement came a lot of debates. These debates were focused on the main design difference between the other Pixels and this Pixel 9a, which is that the Pixel 9a doesn’t have a camera bump. This creates quite the different appearance, but I don’t hate it. It brings back some older iPhone vibes from when we didn’t need 19 cameras, but just the one 8-megapixel lens sufficed. But what I think makes this new design a clear winner is that it gets so much more battery life. Google filled the spot where the rest of the phone cut off and where only the bump protruded with extra phone, which means in general the phone is thicker, but it allows a much bigger battery. Google boasts a 30+ hour battery, which is probably very optimistic, and up to 100 hours when in extreme battery saving mode, which is absurd. And the last great thing about the removal of the camera bump is that it can lay flat on any surface, which is so nice. Personally, I really hate the wobbliness of phones on tables, especially Apple’s phones, where the side bump is all the way to the side (but that might change given recent iPhone leaks…).
Other than that one standout feature, the Pixel 9a is a really good phone. 6.3” display, slightly larger than that of the 8a, and has 2700 nit peak brightness now (35% brighter than last year), which is excellent and is only slightly less than that of Google’s flagship Pixel 9 Pro. It has faster charging than in previous years and gets 7 years of software support, which is wild. And back to the battery, it went from 4492mAh last year in the 8a to being 5100mAh this year, which is a very significant 13.5% increase.
I think this phone is excellent. I do not have the resources or the contacts (or any, for that matter), so I can’t be hands on with this phone (or any phone other than my iPhone 13), but the embargo they had on this phone for content creators was very odd. An embargo is an restriction that prevents media from releasing specific information to the public on a specific date. I believe that the Pixel 9a had a sort of rolling embargo, where some information was allowed to get out, but they couldn’t show anything but the homescreen for the software, which is very odd. But now the phone is out, and so we’ll see how the public reacts.
The Folding iPhone
Samsung recently dropped their latest lineup of foldable, continuing to corner the market with the easiest-to-recommend foldable. Now there have been rumors about a folding iPhone. What would that look like? When might this come out? Why does Apple want to do this? Let’s dive in.
Earlier this July, Apple was granted a patent titled: “Electronic Devices With Durable Folding Displays”. This patent covered the clamshell design of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, which folds like the classic folding phones from back in the day. The patent isn’t clear what size this phone could be, but rumor has it that the phone could have a display ranging from 7.5 to 9 inches in length. It is possible that Apple has been working to eliminate the crease of a folding phone altogether, which would be a first.
Now, when could something like this hit the market? The folding iPhone (or the V68, which is how it is referred to as within Apple) could come out in 2026, but market analysts propose that it may drop later due to Apple trying to perfect the crease.
And lastly, why would Apple do this? It seems rather unnecessary, given their prowess as such a brand and phone manufacturer. Personally, I think Apple has decided that they want to be on the front lines. Not the very front, though. They let other brands been the bleeding edge, such as Samsung with the original Galaxy Z Folds and Z Flips and Meta with the Oculus 1. But with Apple showing they are able to produce a good product in the Vision Pro relatively quickly, I think they are willing to take bigger risks and are okay to work out some kinks after the Gen 1 product has launched. But why this type of folding phone. Honestly, it’s anyone’s guess. I would think that an ultra thin iPad that can fold into a phone would be a huge deal, but they seem to be opting for the clamshell design. The great thing about this design is that it works way better for female clothing. The fashion industry has decided that men get an abundance of pockets, and women usually are stuck with carrying a bag or purse everywhere. But a small folding phone could work a lot better. It could fit into the insanely small pockets they are given, which would be a a game changer and could get some of the female market to switch from their current phones, especially in America, where they already have by far the most phones. Lastly, its kind of obvious that Apple doesn’t want their competitors, like Samsung, Motorola, and Google, to be able to make sales without someone actively not choosing Apple.
CMF: The Miracle of the $300 Ecosystem
There’s been a lot of talk lately about the cmf ecosystem. It consist of a phone, earbuds, and a watch but what does this change about the whole industry? Well, it’s insanely cheap which just changes a lot of things about how we think about how much money can buy when it comes to tech.
CMF, the side brand of nothing, dropped the Phone alone with their new Watch Pro and earbuds. The phone is cheap, with a replaceable back, and a watch. And then there’s the CMF earbuds, which are $40. Forty. dollars. That’s absurd. I purchased the more expensive version of them, the Earbuds Pros. But still, cheap stuff has been here for a looong time. What’s so different about these products? Well, they’re really good for their price range. They even have some features the high end products have, such as the phone 120 hertz refresh rate, better than the iPhone. The earbuds have transparency and noice cancelation which the base AirPods (for $80-$100) don’t have. So the durability and quality has yet the be proven, CMF has played their cards right for now.
Your move, Apple.
iOS 18: Not Great
I have had iOS 18 for about 2 weeks now, and I have some thoughts.
Customization: You can now make your apps look wierd. And maybe good. I love that we have more customization, but Apple tried to make the UI simple enough for everyone to understand, but that means it lacks deep customization options, and the whole thing feel lackluster and just gives enough to want way more. You can also now edit your control center, which is super nice actually. I really haven’t changed much about mine, but it makes it a lot easier to edit and you can even add additional pages to your control center. (Also circle icons on control center, which looks so much better.)
Photos: The app is confusing now. It used to just be photos, and sure it was a little difficult to access shared albums, people, and memories but they didn’t have to go this hard. The app is now cut in half, where if you swipe down you go to your library, and if you swipe up, and go into people, memories, albums, shared albums, etc. But it just sucks. I didn’t need this to be this confusing! Also, the video viewer is worse too: the photos and videos are shown in a smaller area with worse controls. So thanks Apple, you out minimalist-ed yourself this time.
Calculator: Actually super impressed. Now you can convert measurements (and currencies) within the calculator app. Also: math notes. You can just write out equations and it can pull the answers based on the variable you give it and can even make a graph for you. It works a lot better on iPad, but if you haven’t seen the Apple demo of this feature, go check it out. It’s awesome.
Other: You can schedule send messages, finally. New word effects and expanded Tapbacks in messages. Mail app should be getting an update, but hasn’t happened yet as of iOS 18 Beta 2. Apple Intelligence is coming out, but doesn’t look awesome and won’t be available to most since it’s limited to the phones with Apple’s silicon chips. The Lock Screen lets you change the 2 options on it, letting you change the quick options to be something other than flashlight and camera if you want.
Overall, I can’t lie, I was pretty disappointed in this update. Sure a lot happened, but especially with all the promises of cool and useful AI, I’m pretty disappointed. But maybe that’s just me.
AI: The Apple Way
Apple’s World Wide Developer Conference (WWDC) happened on June 10 and it honestly started slow. They opened with new a new arsenal of Apple TV+ TV shows and movies, and then VisionOS 2, which was an underwhelming update given the name’s implication of a much more major one. Then iOS 18, which also felt underwhelming given the rumors swirling around before WWDC, leaving us with not much more than more customization and a few more messaging features. iPadOS and WatchOS passed without anything of note except a very strong calculator app finally coming to iPad. MacOS Sequoia has a new way to control your iPhone remotely. And that was it until Apple Intelligence stole the show.
Apple Intelligence, or AI (I see what you did there, Apple), is the new way AI is being incorporated into Apple’s ecosystem of products. It mostly consists of generative imaging, writing tools, and a ChatGPT-enhanced Siri. And Apple has made it their way. They brought up all the ways that this AI will be on-device for our privacy, and when it can’t be on-device, it will be part of a network where the only information allowed to be used to answer your question or help with your task is the information your Apple device thinks that network needs to complete the request. Even when Siri draws upon ChatGPT to get a better answer, Apple obscures your IP address and hides all other information other than your question. However, other than Siri and the useful AI writing tools, I think most of the new “Apple Intelligence” is not helpful or just weird. For example, I cannot think of one time that I would unironically send an AI-generated picture or drawing to anyone. Ever. The “genmoji” is a little more useful, letting you create a custom emoji in the style of the other Apple emojis, but again, I don’t anticipate ever using this feature. That is, if I could use it. Apple claims that only its own Apple chips are capable enough for Apple Intelligence, so these new AI features are limited to the iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Maxes and all M1-M4 iPads and Macs. I’m not going to sit here and say no one else uses features to promote the purchasing of a newer model, but I certainly feel like Apple is the king of this. They are always working you up on their ladder that climbs higher and higher into absurd prices, and now locking AI behind their newest models is just another way to promote the purchase of the new iPhone 16 lineup that is coming out in September. As a user of the iPhone 13, I’m pretty sad that my phone won’t be able to get these new features, but I won’t get super upset since I was just saying that I don’t think these new features are all that great.
Anway, let me know if you have topics you’d like me to discuss or questions in general. You can reach me at techtabloidblog@gmail.com.
What is an iPad…
On May 7, the new iPads dropped. Each one is slightly better. Each one is faster. Each one has longer battery life. But who needs that? Apple dropped the thinnest Apple product of all time in the new iPad 11 Pro. They also dropped the newest Apple Pencil Pro. But who is going to by the (at its cheapest) $1000 iPad for a slight spec bump and for a thinner experience?
The iPad has always been the ambiguous one in the middle. The Mac and the iPhone. These two legendary products have shaped what a smart device is. They are fast, capable, and well known. But most importantly, they have a specific use case. The iPad and the Apple Watch have always been the products that people buy, but they don’t have a super specific use case. The Apple Watch is for very specific people: people who want to always be connected or want a solid way to track their fitness. The Apple Watch has now become a flex, just a way to flex the money somebody has. The iPad has followed a similar path, being an expensive toy or expensive distraction for your kids. Apple wants to be a mini computer. They act like every body needs one for when they don’t want to use their computer or their phone. I only understand this in one case: for artists. It makes os much sense for artist to want to draw and have it automatically on the internet. Otherwise, I think the iPad is a poorly marketed product. The iPhone and the Macs are a dynamic duo, and it is simply unnecessary to get an iPad without being someone who needs that for their specific job.
Maybe at WWDC, Apple’s web developer conference, the new iPadOS will bring a whole new level of AI capabilities and use-cases for the iPad, but until then, the iPad will be in its own genre of Apple, in a bubble of insane computational and graphics capabilities, but nothing to do with it.
Brawl Stars and the State of Mobile Games
In the world I’m in, everyone is playing Brawl Stars. I have a lot of fun playing it too, but the success of Brawl Stars sheds light on the state of mobile gaming right now.
Brawl Stars is a multiplayer game that lets you play in matches against random people across the globe, but also gives you the opportunity to compete with friends. I think its brilliant how there are multiple types of progression: unlocking all the characters, getting more “trophies” (which just show how much you play basically), and recently a tier based mode that shows just how good you are at the game (and these are just some of the ways to progress). But why Brawls Stars? Why not one of the other Supercell games, which all have multiple elements of progression? I think there are two big reasons.
Firstly, it is based on instant gratification. Games like Clash of Clans, Hayday, and Boom Beach are all slower based games, focusing on expanding your empire (village or farm) and upgrading that empire to become a stronger player. But upgrades take a long time once you get far enough in the game, and expanding takes even longer. But what about Clash Royale, you might ask. While it is fairly fast-paced game and has multiple forms of progression, I think it is missing one crucial aspect that Brawl Stars has: connection with friends. I played Clash Royale for maybe 3 days a few years ago, but it was just frustrating, and there was no group aspect of the game that made me want to play more. Brawl Stars, however, makes me want to gain more trophies than my friends, compete in group events to earn special rewards, and even lets you play with friends within the basic modes in the game.
I think Brawl Stars is the new top dog in the mobile gaming market, and that might be true for a while as Brawl Stars continues to gain popularity and even making TONS of money (105.98 million dollars in 2023).
Feel free to share your thoughts about Brawl Stars or the state of mobile gaming by emailing me at techtabloidblog@gmail.com.
How hard is it to make a good sports widget?
Okay, I’ve been trying to find a good sports widget for the past year or so. Here’s all the apps I’ve tried:
Superfan
Bleacher Report
Sports Alert
Yahoo Sports
Apple Sports
theScore
Real Sports
Fox Sports
NBC Sports
That is too many. For how many I tried, there should be at least one good sports widget that tells me the score of my favorite teams. But they always have some stupid feature. Superfan only lets you choose one team, theScore and Sports Alerts’ widgets just look bad. All the other ones either don’t have one or aren’t good. The one I’ve landed on is Bleacher Report, and even that is never updated and look bad. But why is it so hard to make one? It’s just taking my favorite teams page and squishing it into a rectangle. Here’s what I want:
Updates once a minute
Shows my favorited teams
Let’s me rank my teams so that if I like a team more, that will show over the baseball team barely like
Matches system setting for light/dark mode
Allows group sports, like F1 and PGA
I’m not an app developer, but based on the complexities of these respective apps, I don’t think this is too big of an ask.
If y’all have a better sports widget, feel free to email me at techtabloidblog@gmail.com. Until then, I’ll just wait to see if ESPN can drop a good widget.
Cybertuck Recalls and What It Means for EVs
In recent headlines, Tesla's Cybertruck recalls have stirred up significant attention within the electric vehicle (EV) community. Among the issues highlighted is a concerning accelerator malfunction, raising questions about the vehicle's safety and reliability.
The severity of this recall extends beyond mere inconvenience; it poses a substantial challenge to Tesla's reputation and market standing. With safety at the forefront of consumer concerns, potential buyers may now be inclined to explore alternative EV brands like Rivian, seeking assurance and peace of mind.
This development could potentially level the playing field in the EV market, prompting a reevaluation of brand reputation and consumer trust. While Tesla has historically been a frontrunner in the industry, the recalls underscore the importance of accountability and transparency in maintaining customer loyalty.
However, it's essential not to underestimate Tesla's ability to address challenges effectively. With a proven track record of innovation and resilience, the company has the potential to navigate through this setback and emerge stronger than before.
As the EV landscape continues to evolve, it's crucial for both manufacturers and consumers to prioritize safety and integrity. The Tesla Cybertruck recalls serve as a reminder of the dynamic nature of the automotive industry and the importance of adaptability in the face of change.
Moving forward, it will be interesting to observe how Tesla responds to these challenges and how the broader EV market landscape evolves in light of these developments. Stay tuned as we navigate through this unprecedented terrain together.
Apple Vision Pro and How VR Makes Us Less Human
VR has been adapting to our current lifestyle, increasing its identity as the future of tech. What started as a simple idea has now become the obvious next addition into each of our ever-growing tech arsenal. But what does this do? Is this just the next step, or is it a step too far?
The Apple Vision Pro came out, and it’s been the focus of the internet for a while now. I haven’t had a chance to review it, but after a little too much time watching others review it, I think I can safely say that it is a very expensive toy. Marques Brownlee, a YouTube tech reviewer, said that he is most excited to watch movies on an airplane on a high quality screen, to which he says is a nice thing to have, but not nearly worth the $3500 price tag. But even then, he has concerns about his interactions with the people on those flights while he’s in their headset. Other people, however, have worn the headset in public, not caring about other people’s thoughts about them. Ryan Trahan, a YouTuber while no specific genre, accidentally created an interesting social experiment in his challenge to wear the Apple Vision Pro for 100 hours. He got strange looks everywhere he went, and said later as he rewatched the memories he had made while in the headset that those recorded memories didn’t feel like they were his, and that being in VR felt isolating, even though he could see everything around him. So is VR making us more productive? Maybe. Is it making us less human? Definitely. Despite Apple’s attempts to show your eyes in their headset, it still feels dystopian. Humans have always needed interaction, community, and conversation to be okay. That’s why solitary confinement is such a punishment in prison. VR doesn’t promote anything but isolation and alienation. There are upsides to this constant hunt for productivity and entertainment, but the sacrifices are adding up.
Nostalgia and Tech: Balancing Past and Present
Nostalgia has been a factor of life forever. The word comes from Greek, with nostos meaning return home and algos meaning pain. It is a feeling of a lost era that we long to return to. Studies have shown that nostalgic items can cause negative emotions to occur, but mostly they create warm feelings. But isn’t it weird that this applies to tech, one of the fastest and most adaptive industries in the world? For example, Analogue, an American video game hardware company, started producing the Analogue Pocket in late 2021. The Pocket is a remake of the Nintendo Gameboy, which was a bestseller and still carries this nostalgia with it. Analogue recently came out with new colors for the Pocket, and they sold out. Why do people want to downgrade to a less capable, less functional portable console? Let’s get into it.
The golden age of technology has been acknowledged by some as the 40s to the 80s. From World War II, when technological advancement was necessary for victory, to the age of neon, the Macintosh, and the Walkman, technology kept changing faster and faster as culture changed in a flash. As most of the world heads to a place of faster processing, quantum computers, and smart homes, part of us holds onto the tech of yesteryear, when things were simpler. The Analogue Pocket ties into that longing, the same longing that has encouraged the rapid reintroduction of vinyl into pop culture. A popular tech Youtuber, Marques Brownlee, created a video series called Retro Tech about 4 years ago, and his video on the Game Boy is his most watched one, with 16 million more views on that video than any other video of his. To this day, you will still find Street Fighter and Pac-Man in any arcade because people still like those sorts of games. There is an air of simplicity about the Walkman, Game Boy, and NES that makes it to this day super fun to play. As a tech enthusiast, I’ve always wanted a PS5 or Switch, but I only have a Wii. Despite it being from 2009, my friends still enjoy it, and some with a better consul tell me that they wish they still had a Wii. The future will only get more complicated, despite how much we are trying to simplify our complications. Phones will only get more features, headphones will only get more buttons, and computers will only get more websites. That’s why it's not hard to see why people are flocking to get a nostalgic piece of tech, one that plays into their childhood and their desire for simplicity.
Nostalgia and tech will never become untwined, and it's best for both parties. The past will never stop tying into the present, and the present will not stop affecting the future.
Do We Need a Smartpin?
Humans have a constant drive to update and refine. History shows the benefits of this. Without revision, we wouldn’t have any of the tools we take for granted today. While some things are needed for survival, others should not need to be created. One of these might be the AI Pin. Let’s get into it.
Humane, an upstart wearable device company, just announced their first product, the Humane Ai Pin. The idea is to have a smartpin which attaches to a shirt just like any other pin, except that this pin is a computer. The device was announced in a Ted Talk by one of the founders, Imran Chaudhri, and was pitched as an alternative to virtual reality. The premise is one I understand and agree with: that tech should be able to become invisible when unwanted and available when needed. However, I found this conflicting with their mission, found on Humane’s website, which states: Humane was founded on the principle that we all deserve more from technology. My question is what does more mean? Does it mean more available or more beneficial? This new technology is a small step from our current technology, but the more and more we chip away at the few spaces we aren’t around tech, the more I fear we lose part of what makes us truly human, which is our incredible sociability. As a tech enthusiast, I approve of the ideals of Humane, but question the fulfillment of them. We’ll see what this leads to, but I’ll put a pin in it for now.
What Is A Photo?: How Google Is Tweaking Our Definition of a Photo
Photos have been practically the same since 1825, a snapshot of reality. The only real change was adding color. Then edits came along, but the moment stays the same, no matter what the coloring or brightness of the photo. But what about changing what the photo shows entirely?
Let’s get into it.
Google announced its new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro phones on Wednesday. Along with these phones, new camera software was introduced. First of all, is Magic Editor. This update came out last year, where you can erase something from the background of your image, which seems reasonable. This year, they added more into Magic Editor that lets you move people and objects around the image. This is close to the line between real and fake for me. Sure, you want your subject in the middle of the photo, makes sense. You want that beachball to be higher in the air. Is that really what happened? Not really, but it doesn’t matter that much. You want to make it look like you’re dunking when you weren’t close in reality (this is a real example they used in an ad). Now you’re just lying. That’s not what happened. Editing has been around for a while, but this feels new and, frankly, disconcerting. But in addition to Magic Editor, Google added a feature called Best Take. Now, imagine you are taking a photo with friends, and you take multiple to make sure you get it just right. But you like the lighting more in this one, so you switch the face of your friend from that one photo with the time he was smiling in the other photo. That is absurd. It’s revolutionary, certainly, but are all revolutions ones we want?
Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From the Tree
Apple announced their new watches and phones yesterday. The new Apple Watches are now controllable with a hand, which is crazy. And now the iPhone is…new. Let’s dive in.
The iPhone, like the rest of the smartphone market, has hit this plateau of innovation. There is always a time where a product’s development slows, which, in the case of a phone, means fewer and fewer new features come out. The iPhones have all looked the same since the iPhone 11. For example, I bet your didn’t realize that the cover for this post is the iPhone 13, not the new iPhone 15. Minor adjustment, larger phones, better chips, but the changes made between the original iPhone and the iPhone 2 probably surpasses the number of changes between the iPhone X to this year’s iPhone 15. This is not all that surprising, because at some point you are almost at the apex of a phone, like radiation half-lives, which reach a certain point where the changes are so small that they practically don’t matter. But what’s concerning is that the rest of the industry is still trying new things. Androids are known for their audaciousness in new features, but Apple has set the standard so long that risks aren’t necessary. They play it safe, which is the right move. Apple sits back, watches what features will work, and then polish up the feature for Apple products. Apple has become to comfortable, but nobody can do anything about it.
Electric Trucks: Not Now, but EVentually?
Recently, Fisker, a small fully electric car brand, announced their Fisker Alaska, which is said to be shipped in 2025. This is to rival the current Rivian R1T and Ford F150 Lightning, and by then rivaling the Tesla Cybertruck. However, will truck people really want an electric truck? Or is this just for the fakers? Let’s get started.
In 2022, the electric truck market was valued at $631 million. Seems great until you see that the standard pickup market is valued at $185.56 billion. With those numbers, the pickup market is practically 300 times the size of electric trucks. But why? They look the same right? Sure, but truck people are people who want to either get work done or be that truck guy. EV trucks don’t have either of those things. You can’t haul anything any significant distance, and you most of those “truck guys” don’t want something sleek, they want something more rugged. Eventually, once the EV trucks get more distance and can provide that same “truck guy” ruggedness, than the market will grow. They are also are 3 times the cost. Hopefully this will come soon, but it seems like we’re in it for the long haul.
Apple and the Safety of Tweaks
Some rumors have recently been spread around about the iPhone 15, which will be released in this upcoming fall. Rumors are common in the tech world, but Apple usually has it under wraps, so it’s surprising that we have this much information, whether reliable or not. But let’s get started.
Firstly, the new iPhones should be made of titanium, which is stronger and lighter than the current stainless steel backing. Of course, there should be a camera boost, but also at least the Pro Max iPhone should adopt USB-C, which will probably be marketed as a perk rather than an upcoming obligation. (If you don’t know what this obligation is, the EU is mandating USB-C ports as of 2025.) But the new “wow” factor, the factor that makes it the new iPhone is rumored to be an action button. An action button is a button that could be mapped to do lots of different things, such as turn on silent mode, or switching to Do Not Disturb. This button could also be the replacement of the toggle for silent mode. Even if all of these end up being in the new phones, are they really that different from the old ones?
Apple has built for itself a “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it” culture. All companies do this; it’s a common sense rule of life: if something is working, don’t mess it up. But Apple is especially safe having built this practically inescapable fortress that is their ecosystem. To be fair, Apple has recently been more of an initiator of technological progress, for more obscure products such as AirTags and the Vision Pro. But when it comes to their phones, they are (rightfully) careful how much they change. They like the spot they’re in, and right now they’re playing the game of tweaking, changing ever so slightly to keep customers loyal, but also get them to buy the new one. But here’s the real question: will Apple ever need to take a risk?
What’s the Impact?: Threads
By now you must’ve heard about it, but in case you haven’t, Threads is the new competitor to Twitter. But the big deal is that it is made by Meta, the largest social media platform in the world.
On July 5, Threads was launched. But this wasn’t a careless launch. Meta deliberately launched Threads after a series of horrid mistakes from Twitter, including limiting the number of posts people see and forcing users to pay for certification. Threads bet on Twitters dip to propel them forward, and they were right. As of now, there are 117 million users, 19 days after launch. That number is practically unheard of. So what makes Threads better than Twitter? Well, a lot of things. Threads has unlimited amount of posts you can see and certification through Meta (meaning if you’re certified on Instagram, you’re certified on Threads. Oh yeah, and no adds. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, said that there wouldn’t be any form of monetization until the site reaches 1 billion users.
Maybe it’s a fad, but as of right now people are flocking to Threads. It’s been made clear that Meta’s played at least some cards right, because Twitter just became X.com, supposedly the new “everything” app, with the name (purposefully or otherwise) harkening back to Elon’s online bank he made in 1999. But if Meta can stoke the fire that is Threads, then welcome to Musk v. Zuck: Part 1.
Highlights of WWDC
WWDC, Apple’s developer conference, ended two days ago, on June 5. As the chaotic scene settles, what stands out and what is important? Let’s start with the small updates:
iPadOS: Nothing crazy. We will now get interactive widgets, which is actually pretty nice. We also get multiple timers, which is a feature that should’ve come out a long time ago, but at least it’s here now.
MacOS: Widgets. All of Apple’s computers will all now be able the have widgets, which will fade into the background when a window is open. Subtle, but smart touch. Also, there will be slight upgrades to the current presentation of slideshows on video meeting sites.
WatchOS: There will now be better features for hikers and cyclists, the biggest thing being the new waypoint for hiking. It will now show where on the path was the last place you had cell coverage and the last place SOS calls were available to you.
iOS: Firstly, contact sharing. This is the new alternative to switching phones with people to get their contact. Instead, we will soon be able to hold our phones close to each other in order to share contacts with each other. Super convenient. Call posters. These are banners that show up as the background when somebody is calling you. What’s awesome is that you get to chose what poster people see, so if you want your family to see a different banner than your boss, that is possible. Next, we have live voicemail transcription. Now, instead of listening to the voicemail after someone calls, you will be able to read what they are saying instead of picking up. Super helpful if you’re not sure if you want to answer a call from someone. Same thing goes for audio messages on text. You can just read it instead of trying to listen to it. We will also be able to download maps, instead of having to take a screenshot of the map. Lastly, Apple announced they have been working with some hotels in order to allow AirPlay on their TVs, so you can cast your shows and movies, as opposed to signing in on the built in services.
Okay, now the Vision Pro. The Vision Pro is Apple’s new AR/VR headset. It looks incredible. The resolution looks great, and people can see your eyes on the outside screen to see if you are looking at them. There is a dial to control the amount of reality you allow in your vision. Also, to unlock the headset, they have this thing called Optic ID, where it scans your eyes, which is so Sci-Fi, but I guess it works nonetheless. But here’s the thing: no controllers. You use your hands and eyes to control it. You use your eyes as your mouse on a computer, and your fingers select. Crazy. Now what am I forgetting? Hmmmm…oh yes! The price! Just a nice cheap $3499. So yeah. That’s WWDC 23.
Google is Getting Better
Google just had their Google I/O event, and their products get better and better each year. If they fixed the kinks, I would be willing to switch. Here’s why:
1. Phones
Google’s Pixels are simply amazing. What tech YouTuber calls the “smartest smartphone”, the pixel has been running away in design, cameras, and software, with a respectable battery to go along with it. Also, price. The most premium Pixel is $200 cheaper than the most premium iPhone. If you think it’s just a feature gap that makes the iPhone more expensive, you’re wrong. In Marques Brownlee’s annual Smartphone Camera Test, (I recommend checking you the video) the Pixel 7 Pro had the 2nd best camera, preceded only by its little brother, the Pixel 6A, Google’s cheaper lineup. The Pixel 6A started at $499, which is an incredible price.
2. Software
Google’s software is truly great. I love Google’s esthetic, simplicity, and generally minimalism. It looks amazing, and I like it more than Apple’s less intuitive software.
3. Ecosystem
Let’s start with the Pixel Tablet. My needs for a tablet are very slim, so this tablet fits all my desires. A large screen that looks good. Bonus: it turns into a smartphone device. Finally, I like the Pixel Watch a lot. The circular design, the…well that’s kind of it. I’ve never appreciated Apple’s square watch design. It gives more mini-phone vibes than a smartwatch needs to. And based on my limited experience and research, the Pixel Watch’s software doesn’t seem to different than Apple’s.
So there you go. Obviously, Google is not perfect yet. But I love seeing them getting better, at the very least pushing Apple to try more.
Kia: How to Go Back to the Drawing Board Well
Kia was a run-in-the-mill type of car brand. The Korean car brand has done well, making good cars, in my eyes being like a Nissan, you’ll see some, and won’t be surprised when you do. However, back in 2021, they changed their logo. But not just their logo. They scrapped most of their previous work and went back to the drawing board…and it looks great.
Their new logo looks more like KN than it does Kia (if you haven’t seen it, I recommend searching it up). This leads to people wondering what this new car brand is, searching about what the KN car brand is, which is great for their brand. In addition, their new cars look great. They have real cleaned up their cars, making them look higher end, with their sharper edges and nice headlights. They really turned that ship around, and I’m excited for the future of Kia.
(This is my opinion. If you want to read about a more negative view on the redesign, check out inc.com’s article on it.)