AllYouCanTech

Samsung’s Affordable Collection Progresses with Galaxy A17 5G and Tab A11 Plus

Samsung’s newest budget offerings, the Galaxy A17 5G and Galaxy Tab A11 Plus, are creating a buzz by featuring specifications usually associated with high-end devices. The Galaxy A17 5G, following in the footsteps of 2025’s best-selling Android smartphone, presents a single variant with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, straying from the multiple configurations of its predecessor. Nonetheless, Samsung assures users of six years of Android updates and security patches, a considerable benefit for those looking for longevity.

The A17 5G flaunts a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, driven by the Exynos 1330 chipset and a 5,000mAh battery that supports 25W fast charging. It is equipped with a 50MP primary camera featuring Optical Image Stabilization for improved low-light shots, along with a 5MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro camera.

On the other hand, the Galaxy Tab A11 Plus features an 11-inch LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, quad speakers enhanced by Dolby Atmos, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It is available in 6GB/128GB and 8GB/256GB configurations, powered by a MediaTek MT8775 processor, coupled with a 7,040mAh battery and the option for 5G connectivity.

Both gadgets come equipped with sophisticated AI functionalities such as Circle to Search and Google’s Gemini assistant, enabling users to execute tasks like product identification or email drafting without the necessity for a top-tier device. The Galaxy A17 5G is priced at $200 and will be available in black, blue, and gray starting January 7, while the Galaxy Tab A11 Plus begins at $250, offered in gray and silver from January 8.

Thieaudio’s Valhalla: A $1,999 IEM Featuring 19 Drivers Per Ear Delivering Outstanding Sound Quality

This $1,999 universal IEM is in a league of its own.

It’s not often that I get to try out a $1,999 IEM, and Thieaudio has undoubtedly succeeded with the Valhalla. I’d argue that it targets enthusiasts, though there are many other models that provide excellent sound without the hefty price tag of the Valhalla. If you’re simply looking for well-made IEMs that sound great and are comfortable, there are plenty of fantastic options available for under $100.

But what if you desire the very best? The finest design, the highest sound quality, and the top drivers on the market today. This is where Thieaudio sets itself apart; the brand has been thriving over the past two years, and IEMs like the Monarch MKIII have gained popularity due to their sound tuning and design.

And now we have the Valhalla. Priced at $1,999 on Linsoul Audio, these IEMs are Thieaudio’s priciest by a significant margin, and they are truly remarkable. Each earbud features 19 balanced armature drivers, which is almost excessive. It’s essential to discuss the drivers, as each earbud contains four Sonion 38D1XJ007 subwoofer drivers for precise bass, ten Sonion E50DT0005 low-midrange and mid-range drivers, four Knowles RDE 33729 treble drivers, and a Knowles WBFK 30095 tweeter that offers a level of treble extension that most IEMs cannot match.

As expected from a product of this caliber, there are numerous innovations. Noteworthy is the Precision Bass System, Thieaudio’s answer to providing a “subwoofer-like” experience in an IEM. It features a distinctive resonance chamber optimized to create vibrant sub-bass; essentially, the Valhalla boasts one of the finest bass extensions of any flagship IEM.

Additionally, it employs custom tubing to ensure “smooth transitions” throughout the entire frequency spectrum, and it’s evident that Thieaudio has meticulously attended to every detail with the Valhalla. This becomes immediately apparent once you start using the IEMs; their design is striking, and it’s clear these are premium IEMs.

The Valhalla’s shell is constructed from titanium, making it durable; I’ve been using these IEMs for nearly four months now, and they remain in pristine condition. I have every confidence in their durability, and while the shells are somewhat larger — presumably to fit all the drivers — they do not apply excessive pressure and are relatively lightweight. Surprisingly, these IEMs are quite comfortable to wear.

What truly sets these IEMs apart is the faceplate design; Thieaudio offers a total of 15 designs, allowing you to customize the shell to your taste. I received the standard model, and I quite like its aesthetic; it features a bright etched pattern that catches the eye without appearing gaudy.

Thieaudio’s logo is accentuated at the base, and the overall design effectively underscores the premium quality of the IEMs. I also appreciate the matte finish on the shells, which resist smudges much better. You receive the typical mix of silicone and foam ear tips, though I would have preferred a broader selection in this area. While other brands include additional pairs in the package, Thieaudio provides the same set that comes with the Monarch MKIII.

Fortunately, the included tips offer good isolation and a snug fit. The sound nozzle is quite large and angled, and due to the design of the IEMs, the Valhalla extends out from your ears. However, once you achieve a proper fit, you won’t even feel that you’re wearing the IEMs, and the lightweight construction makes a significant difference.

Thieaudio has excelled with the included EliteNoir cable; this silver-plated cable features a braided design, is pretty flexible, and comes with a modular system that includes 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm plugs. It connects to the Valhalla using the standard 2-pin connector. To complete the package, you also receive a hard shell case with a suede lining to securely hold the Valhalla, the cable, and all the extras.

Truthfully, the sound quality is outstanding — that’s a given when you consider the extensive engineering behind the Valhalla and the number of drivers involved. The IEMs deliver a deliciously rich and detailed low-end, with impressive sub-bass vibrancy that enhances the listening experience. Overall, the bass is well-controlled while still providing a solid

Learning to Handle Feelings with Google’s Journal Application

I faced numerous mental health challenges this year, yet this app aided my development and progress.

Not everyone is fond of journaling. For me, writing has always been an enjoyable and creative escape, which is why I built a career around it. However, I had never intentionally recorded my personal thoughts or viewed it as a method to clarify my mind and comprehend my emotions.

This year proved to be exceptionally tough for me, filled with mental distress and frequent panic-related breakdowns. Thank goodness for therapy! Nonetheless, there are profound, dark, and painful thoughts that remain unspoken, even to a neutral therapist who is paid to assist you through your mental landscape without judgment. Google’s Journal app, also known as Pixel Journal, significantly helped me process these feelings, release them, and gain a deeper understanding of them.

Why did I wait until I turned 28 to start journaling as a form of emotional expression? Well, it’s not my first experience with a “diary” of sorts. At the tender age of seven, I owned a cherished fruit-scented diary equipped with a lock and key. I vividly remember eagerly jotting down my feelings and documenting my emotions for weeks. That is, until my siblings discovered it and read it aloud to each other, leaving me utterly embarrassed. In hindsight, I placed too much trust in a flimsy locked diary from a dollar store. But then again, I was only seven.

Strangely, that anxiety about someone stumbling upon my journal and mocking my deepest thoughts lingered on. At least, it did until I acquired my Pixel 10 Pro this year.

A smartphone is such a personal item. We already store many of our most private thoughts and aspects of ourselves within it, whether it’s messages between closest friends or discreetly locked folders of pictures we want to keep hidden. It can even include something as trivial as your internet browsing history, cheesy music, or dubious e-books. A smartphone essentially acts as a diary or journal. It’s a reliable companion in life that won’t gossip or betray you. And it’s secured with a password!

Thus, while setting up my Pixel 10 Pro and discovering the Journal app, I felt ready to release some significant burdens. Issues that plagued my nights, old wounds that drove me to madness at times, everything that my anxiety tends to replay without end, and the overwhelming internal chatter.

I didn’t anticipate it would benefit me as much as it did, but I’m grateful for the bravery it took to begin. Pixel Journal isn’t some enchantingly magical app that erases my problems. I understand it’s not vastly different from any mental health app I could’ve downloaded that allows date logging, photo uploading, or list-making. However, its preloaded status on my phone and seamless integration with the phone’s user interface proved very beneficial. The AI features were particularly advantageous for me.

What sets the Google Pixel Journal app apart is its AI-driven prompts and summaries. They validate your feelings, encourage reflection, and aid in learning from your experiences. I’ve received invaluable insights from the late-night musings of my anxious mind. The Journal adapts based on your previous entries and even offers prompts related to earlier topics, facilitating personal growth.

You can revisit your past by reviewing the built-in calendar to sense how you felt during specific weeks or months. Journal entries can be tagged with emotions and topics. Customization options extend to font type and color. The app links with your Google Photos and allows you to incorporate pictures, videos, locations, and even Health Connect data!

In addition to all these fantastic features, I appreciate that the app is password-protected, ensuring your privacy is safeguarded. All entries are backed up to your Google account, but all AI processing remains local to your device. For insight into why on-device processing is crucial, I highly recommend a remarkable article written by my senior colleague, Jerry Hildenbrand. Essentially, none of the information you log is utilized for training AI models or advertisements.

As 2026 approaches, a new year is on the horizon. As a habitual overthinker, high achiever, and planner, my anxiety tends to peak during this period. Perhaps due to my heightened awareness of my thoughts, this year I find myself feeling less afraid.

I will step into the new year equipped with a valuable mental wellness tool that has greatly assisted me over the past two to three months of 2025. And as odd or trivial as it may seem, I’m genuinely pleased I invested in the Pixel.

Verizon Provides Reduced YouTube TV for Certain Plans

Verizon has launched a new deal that provides a $20 monthly reduction on YouTube TV for qualifying customers, lowering the price from $82.99 to $62.99 for the initial six months. This promotion is available to Verizon Mobile or Home Internet users who enroll via the My Verizon app. The payment for YouTube TV will be included in the Verizon bill, rather than conducted through Google. This offer results in a total savings of $120 over six months, essentially covering nearly two months of service at the regular rate. However, post the six-month duration, the subscription fee will return to the regular price. To be eligible, customers must be newcomers to YouTube TV and should not have an existing account with unlimited cloud DVR or NFL Sunday Ticket, unless they set up a new Google account. This offer presents an appealing choice for individuals contemplating cutting the cord or changing live TV services, as YouTube TV is recognized for its intuitive interface and unlimited cloud DVR.

Expectations and Worries Regarding 2026 Modifications for Chromebooks and Tablets

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Five Preferred Characteristics for Chinese Smartphones in 2026

In 2026, the smartphone sector is anticipated to experience notable progress, especially in camera innovation, battery advancements, and international market expansion. Chinese smartphone manufacturers, including Vivo, OPPO, and Xiaomi, are leading the charge with devices that not only perform exceptionally but also excel in capturing breathtaking photos and providing extended battery longevity.

**Improved Camera Technologies**

The advancement of smartphone camera systems remains a key priority for producers. Gadgets like the Vivo X200 Ultra and OPPO Find X9 Pro have raised the bar with their exceptional imaging abilities. Looking ahead, larger sensors and enhanced tuning algorithms that boost image quality are expected. The trend of incorporating high-resolution lenses, such as 200MP telephoto options, is anticipated to persist, delivering users unmatched photographic opportunities.

**Innovations in Battery Technology**

Battery performance continues to be a vital element of smartphone functionality. The rollout of silicon-carbon batteries has transformed the landscape, enabling greater capacities without sacrificing design aesthetics. Phones that utilize these batteries can now sustain up to two days of use on a single charge. The augmented silicon content in anodes increases energy density, leading to batteries that surpass 8,000mAh in capacity. This innovation guarantees that devices remain lightweight while providing strong performance across diverse environmental conditions.

**Expansion in Global Markets**

Chinese brands are preparing to broaden their reach beyond Asia, focusing on Western markets through proactive marketing strategies. OPPO and Vivo have already begun to penetrate the European market, and this pattern is predicted to accelerate. By launching flagship models worldwide, these brands aspire to compete with established entities and secure a greater portion of the global market.

**Improvements in Display Technology**

Display technology is also undergoing significant enhancements. Partnerships with display manufacturers like BOE have produced panels that can dim to as low as 1 nit, improving usability in dim lighting. While current models boast 1.5K resolution displays, a transition to 2K panels with similar low-light performance is expected, granting users an elevated visual experience.

**Obstacles and Future Perspectives**

Despite these advancements, obstacles such as increasing DRAM costs could affect the availability of high-RAM variants. While 12GB of RAM is likely to become the norm, the need for additional memory may rise with the growing use of AI-driven applications. Nevertheless, the emphasis on innovation and user-focused features guarantees that Chinese manufacturers will remain integral in influencing the future trajectory of the smartphone sector.

In conclusion, 2026 is set to be a year filled with thrilling advancements in smartphone technology, characterized by enhanced camera systems, sophisticated battery solutions, and a bolstered global footprint. As brands strive to redefine the limits of what is achievable, consumers can anticipate devices that deliver outstanding performance and value.

OnePlus Introduces $400 Tablet in the US with Enticing Offer

The OnePlus Pad Go 2 demonstrates that an impressive Android tablet doesn’t require a hefty price tag. OnePlus is now offering the Pad Go 2 in the U.S. for $400, with early purchasers receiving a complimentary folio case or stylus. The highlight is the 12.1-inch 120Hz LCD, providing excellent brightness and fluid scrolling that exceeds expectations for its category. Expandable storage is reintroduced, with up to 256GB internally plus a microSD slot available.

OnePlus is at last introducing one of its most budget-friendly tablets to the U.S., targeting individuals who seek a pure Android tablet experience without the flagship cost. You can now acquire the OnePlus Pad Go 2 directly from the company’s website for $400. If purchased before the year’s end, buyers can choose either a free folio case or a free stylus alongside their order.

At first glance, the tablet showcases a well-known OnePlus design aesthetic around a more economical foundation. The Pad Go 2 sports a sleek aluminum chassis, narrow bezels, and a sizeable display constructed for streaming, browsing, and light productivity tasks.

The display itself is a major highlight. It features an expansive 12.1-inch LCD screen that supports a 120Hz refresh rate. With a maximum brightness of 900 nits, it remains usable even outdoors on a bright day, an uncommon trait for tablets within this price segment. While it may not be OLED, it should still perform adequately for daily activities.

Dependable mid-range specifications

Internally, OnePlus has upgraded from the preceding Helio G99 to the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultra. Although it won’t surpass the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it adequately handles streaming, light work, and casual gaming.

Additionally, users receive 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage, expandable through a microSD slot. This latter feature is increasingly rare, making its inclusion here a notable advantage for those who collect media.

This tablet features a 10,050mAh battery, significantly larger than the 8,000mAh battery found in the original OnePlus Pad Go. OnePlus claims it can provide over 50 hours of music playback or 15 hours of video viewing.

The software is another strong asset of the Pad Go 2. It operates on OxygenOS designed for tablets, which includes split-screen multitasking, floating windows, and enhanced app scaling compared to standard Android on larger displays.

For those who already own a OnePlus phone, functionalities like rapid file sharing and synchronized notifications facilitate the tablet’s seamless integration into your existing setup.

The OnePlus Pad Go 2 delivers a large 120Hz display, robust performance, extended battery longevity, and intelligent software to the U.S. market at a price point that genuinely makes sense.

Powerful Noise-Cancelling Earbuds Offered at a 28% Discount During Post-Christmas Sales

The Bose QuietComfort earbuds are an ideal choice for those who love noise cancellation.

As the holiday season comes to a close, numerous tech bargains remain, including a 28% price cut on the Bose QuietComfort earbuds at Amazon, bringing the cost down to $129. These earbuds serve as the more cost-effective alternative to the QuietComfort Ultras, which are widely acclaimed as the top noise-cancelling earbuds. Even though they are the entry-level model, the QuietComforts come equipped with a comprehensive active noise cancellation system, making them a superb option for individuals who value noise isolation.

The QuietComfort earbuds feature Bose’s renowned active noise cancellation as well as an ambient mode for awareness of surroundings. They are equipped with impressive battery life, quick charging capabilities, and boast an IPX4 water resistance rating. Offered in Black, White, Petal Pink, and Twilight Blue, these earbuds represent a fantastic value at their current pricing.

These are suggested if you are in the market for wireless earbuds priced below $130 with a snug fit, a silicone ear tip design, and adjustable audio settings via a mobile application. Nonetheless, if your financial plan is beneath $100 or if you prefer a different design aesthetic, this offer may not suit your needs.

The Bose QuietComfort series, which includes the Ultra earbuds and over-ear headphones, provides premium ANC, a comfortable fit, and superior sound quality. The earbuds deliver 8.5 hours of battery life, customizable touch controls, and access to EQ configurations through the Bose QCE app. Additionally, they come with multiple eartip and stability band options, wireless charging, and a compact charging case.

For those in pursuit of an even more sophisticated ANC experience, high-end alternatives such as the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 earbuds are on the market, albeit at a steeper price.

Samsung Trials Perplexity Integration in Bixby Ahead of Galaxy S26 Launch

**Samsung’s Bixby Poised for Significant Upgrade with Perplexity Integration**

Samsung is preparing for a considerable improvement to its Bixby voice assistant by incorporating Perplexity AI, as disclosed by recent leaks and user observations. This advancement arrives ahead of the expected Galaxy S26 release, representing a critical change in Samsung’s AI strategy.

**Key Updates:**

– **Perplexity Integration:** Samsung is experimenting with Perplexity-enabled responses within Bixby, aiming to enhance the assistant’s performance. This integration permits Bixby to oversee routine tasks while Perplexity addresses intricate, web-based inquiries, supplying answers with references.

– **Initial Indications:** Though initially intended for the Galaxy S26, early indications of this feature have surfaced in the One UI 8.5 beta. A user displayed a screenshot depicting Bixby responding to a complex inquiry with Perplexity as the reference.

– **AI Rivalry:** Samsung’s initiative to embed Perplexity is perceived as an attempt to rival Google’s Gemini and Apple’s integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. This upgrade could establish Bixby as a more competitive AI assistant.

**Implications for Users:**

Samsung users might soon encounter a more powerful Bixby, equipped to tackle a wider array of questions. This integration could serve as a strong alternative to current AI solutions, improving the overall user experience on Samsung devices.

As Samsung continues to hone this integration, the tech community is keenly awaiting further updates, anticipating a more intelligent and adaptable Bixby with the forthcoming Galaxy S26 series.

Emerging Trends in the 2026 Mobile Accessories Industry: Advancements in Battery Technology and Case Designs

I focus on the upcoming new year and reflect on the possibilities that may arise.