The Samsung Galaxy S25 lineup presents a wide array of audio options. Here’s how to guarantee you receive the optimum quality.
the day-to-day experience of using the Google Pixel 10 series. Users will likely notice significant improvements in day-to-day tasks, with the Tensor G5 enhancing everything from app launch times to overall fluidity. Everyday functions such as web browsing, texting, and media consumption are snappy, allowing for a smooth user experience.
Furthermore, the battery life receives a commendable boost, making the Pixel 10 series ideal for extended use. Google has optimized the battery management system, which helps in prolonging usage times without compromising performance.
On-device AI capabilities are particularly impressive, with features like real-time language translation and advanced photography enhancements being more responsive than ever. The new image-signal processor takes photography to another level, allowing users to capture clearer and more vivid images in a variety of lighting conditions.
Ultimately, while Tensor G5 may not outperform its competitors in benchmark scores, it prioritizes practical performance improvements that enhance everyday usability. The refinements in AI, battery efficiency, and image processing make the Google Pixel 10 series a compelling choice for many users, showcasing Google’s commitment to creating a unique mobile experience.
Read More**Polar Loop: The Innovative Screenless Fitness Tracker**
Polar, the distinguished Finnish fitness brand, has introduced its newest product, the Polar Loop. This screenless, subscription-free wristband is crafted to rival well-known fitness trackers such as the Whoop 5.0, Garmin Index Monitor, and Amazfit Helio Strap. The Polar Loop provides a refined and understated choice for athletes looking for extensive health and fitness monitoring without the interruption of a screen.
**Main Features and Specifications**
The Polar Loop is a lightweight device, weighing merely 29g and with a thickness of 9mm. It comes with a soft textile strap, ensuring comfort throughout sleep and exercise. The wristband incorporates an accelerometer and Polar’s Precision Prime HR sensor for automatic detection of workouts, tracking metrics like training load, heart rate variability (HRV), and recovery.
The device does not have built-in GPS but can link to your phone’s GPS through the Polar Flow app for enhanced workout tracking. The Polar Loop is water-resistant (WR30) and functions in temperatures from -20ºC to 50ºC (-4ºF to 122ºF). It features a battery life of up to 8 days with typical usage and charges with USB-C.
**Distinctive Advantage**
In contrast to its competitors, the Polar Loop is free from subscription fees, offering all of its features right from the start for a one-time price of $199. This presents a considerable benefit over the Whoop 5.0, which necessitates an annual subscription. Polar prioritizes data privacy, with no plans to lease out customer information.
The Polar Loop is intended to be worn alongside a conventional watch, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy wearing a luxury timepiece while still having access to 24/7 health data. The ergonomic design of the wristband ensures superior activity tracking metrics compared to armbands such as the Garmin Index Monitor.
**Market Positioning**
The Polar Loop enters a crowded market with the Amazfit Helio Strap available at $99, offering a comparable screenless experience with a marginally longer battery life. However, Polar capitalizes on its reputation for precise HR data to rationalize the higher price.
While Whoop bands deliver a wider array of health information, their recurring subscription fees may dissuade some users. Garmin’s Index Sleep Monitor concentrates on sleep tracking but does not include workout monitoring capabilities, which may lead Garmin enthusiasts to consider the Polar Loop.
**Conclusion**
The Polar Loop is scheduled for release on September 10, with options in Greige Sand, Night Black, and Brown Copper. With its emphasis on privacy, comfort, and extensive health tracking, the Polar Loop offers a compelling choice for fitness lovers seeking an uninterrupted experience.
Read MoreThe newest Bluetooth trackers from Chipolo, the LOOP and CARD, bring forth cutting-edge features such as magnetic alignment and wireless charging. Contrary to expectations, these trackers do not conform to the Qi2 standard. Instead, Chipolo has chosen the earlier Qi standard, incorporating magnets for automatic alignment without the added bulk of Qi2 coils. This choice preserves the slim profile of the trackers, which is vital to their design. Both versions offer a six-month battery lifespan, an IP67 rating, and Bluetooth 6 for improved accuracy and efficiency. Chipolo’s strategy demonstrates a user-focused mindset, emphasizing practicality over the adoption of the newest standards. Upcoming advancements might feature UWB technology and additional collaborations with other firms, broadening Chipolo’s ecosystem.
Read MoreSome international speculations suggest that Qualcomm’s forthcoming flagship is allegedly shaping up early on.
What you ought to know
– Speculations assert that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 (the successor to the Elite) “for Galaxy” is reportedly hitting speeds of 4.74GHz for Samsung’s upcoming flagship devices.
– Those same speculations assert that the chip’s standard version, for other manufacturers, achieves peaks of 4.61GHz.
– Previous speculations indicate that Samsung is working on a new “for Galaxy” Elite successor utilizing the 2nm process.
Speculations are ongoing concerning Qualcomm’s next flagship chip for the upcoming generation of devices, hinting at an impending power enhancement.
Earlier today (Sept 2), X informant Tarun Vats emphasized a post made by the Chinese user Digital Chat Station regarding the frequency advancements for the upcoming Qualcomm Elite chip (via SamMobile). The post on the Chinese platform, Weibo, attracted attention to the alleged “main” or “super” cores driving the next Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC “for Galaxy.”
This chip, anticipated to concentrate on Samsung’s devices, is rumored to hit speeds of 4.74GHz. The speculations describe this as a “high-frequency” variant of what Qualcomm will offer to other OEMs, akin to its previous practices.
Conversely, the informant suggests that the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (the supposed name for the successor) is undergoing testing on devices from Xiaomi, Honor, iQOO, OnePlus, and RealMe. Currently, the chip is purportedly reaching heights of 4.61GHz with its “two super cores,” alongside six 3.63GHz “large cores.”
Looking forward to the Elite
In comparison to last year’s performance with the 8 Elite “for Galaxy” and the standard version, the figures show a slight improvement. The original 8 Elite showcased 4.47GHz clock speeds for the “for Galaxy” variant compared to the standard chip’s 4.32GHz for other manufacturers. If you’re after more concrete specifications, neither Qualcomm nor Samsung has disclosed those details.
Speculations from June indicated that Samsung might introduce yet another “for Galaxy” chip for its Galaxy S26 series, and that its Elite successor could operate on the 2nm process. A report hinted that Samsung was already commencing its “early production tests” for this enhanced “for Galaxy” chip on 2nm. Mass production could commence during “the latter half of this year,” if we are to trust the early whispers.
More recent speculations suggest that Qualcomm might alter its naming convention for its Snapdragon flagship, which could lead to confusion upon its arrival. Instead of opting for the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 name, speculations propose it could launch as the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. The rationale behind this is Qualcomm reportedly developing an SD 8 Gen 5 chipset, and seeking to maintain similar naming patterns for its chips. Regardless of what unfolds, we may not have to wait long, as speculations suggest Qualcomm could unveil the chip in September.
Read MoreThese leather cases are visually appealing and feature integrated magnets.
As someone who frequently changes phones every other week, I usually skip using cases. There are only two phones where I find them necessary — Pixels and iPhones. With only one iPhone model released each year, I think it’s wise to protect that device with a case.
I tend to keep Pixels the longest throughout a year, and although Google has improved its build quality over the last two years, I’ve damaged enough of its devices in the past to be cautious about breaking yet another phone. Just a day after receiving the [Pixel 10 Pro XL](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/google-pixel-10-pro-review), I faced a small scare when the phone slipped and fell onto a tiled floor. Thankfully, there was no damage.
When it comes to using a case, I prefer leather-backed options, which led me to Bellroy. I’m a huge admirer of Bellroy’s bags and accessories, and after taking the Transit Travel Pack Pro on a recent trip to London, I can vouch for its capability in carrying a substantial amount of tech.
Therefore, when I discovered that the brand produces Pixel 10 leather cases, I was instantly intrigued. I picked the Sienna color for my Pixel 10 Pro XL and the Pixel 10 in Sapphire. Both hues are attractive, but the Sienna catches the eye just a bit more. Bellroy collaborates with Google, so besides purchasing the case directly from the brand’s site — [priced at $59](https://bellroy.com/products/leather-pixel-case?color=sienna&material=leather&size=pixel10proxl) — you can also acquire it [through the Google Store](https://store.google.com/us/product/bellroy_leather_case_magnet_pixel_10_pro).
The case features a sleek design that highlights the camera bar of the Pixel 10 Pro XL. Apart from the Bellroy logo at the bottom, there’s no other branding on the case, and the quality of construction is superb. The leather feels pleasant in hand, and what’s even better is that it is significantly slimmer than most leather cases I’ve used previously, so it doesn’t add excessive bulk to the phone.
Weighing in at 30g, the leather case is lightweight as well. The interior of the case has a felt lining to prevent scratching the phone, and it features aluminum buttons that offer the same excellent tactility as the buttons on the Pixel 10 Pro XL. There’s ample clearance around the bottom cutout for the USB-C charging port, allowing me to use my cable with an integrated power meter without issues.
Additionally, the case includes built-in magnets. One of the standout features of the Pixel 10 is its Qi 2 integration; while a magnetic case isn’t a necessity, it certainly enhances usability. I experienced no issues using the case with the many Qi 2 charging pads scattered around my home.
The case has raised edges at the front to protect the screen from damage if the phone falls face-down, and you receive similar protection at the back around the camera area. I’ve been using the case for just a few days now without encountering any problems, but I will revise this post with notes from long-term use. Bellroy provides a three-year warranty for all its cases against manufacturing defects, so I don’t foresee that becoming a concern.
All in all, I genuinely appreciate what Bellroy has accomplished with its Pixel 10 cases. The construction quality is exceptional, the cases don’t add significant bulk or weight to the phones, and they are visually appealing. I also admire the quality of the leather, and if you’re considering Google’s latest devices and require a dependable leather case, I would suggest choosing Bellroy — this is among the
Read MoreFollowing the ITC, the Delhi High Court issued its decision regarding the patent conflict.
What you need to know
– The Delhi High Court in India has rendered its decision, rejecting the lawsuit Ultrahuman filed against Oura concerning its patent conflict.
– This marks the progression of the situation after the ITC’s ruling in August, which barred Ultrahuman’s devices and components from the U.S. marketplace.
– Initially, Ultrahuman pursued Oura for this legal action due to the latter’s features closely resembling its own.
Additional details have emerged about the ongoing litigation between Ultrahuman and Oura, but it appears this might be the conclusion—for now.
This afternoon (Sep 2), Oura reached out to Android Central concerning its ongoing litigation with Ultrahuman, as the latter took legal action against the former over “patent allegations.” Oura wanted to notify us that Ultrahuman’s lawsuit against them “has been dismissed” by the Delhi High Court in India.
Oura states, “Ultrahuman’s failure to disclose the US ITC’s initial and final rulings, which were significant to its complaint, was determined to be intentional and deliberate by the Delhi High Court.”
This brings us back to an update shared through an Oura statement regarding Ultrahuman’s case against it. The statement addressed the ITC’s decision against Ultrahuman, which prohibited the company’s smart rings and components “from the U.S. market through exclusion and cease-and-desist orders.” The ITC’s original ruling also indicated that Ultrahuman “violated” Oura’s intellectual property, according to the company’s statement.
The Smart Ring Rivalry
On August 22, news emerged that Ultrahuman had initiated a lawsuit against Oura, accusing the brand’s Ring 4 of “copying” its patented smart ring technology. The suit was filed in the Delhi High Court in India. Ultrahuman contended that its rival, Oura, was encroaching uncomfortably close with its smart ring features, such as “women’s health tracking, glucose monitoring, and unrestricted data features without authorization.”
At that time, an Ultrahuman spokesperson stated that the company had “no choice but to defend its innovation.” Besides the “sleep, recovery, and circadian health” insights mentioned, Ultrahuman highlighted another significant difference between both brands: the approach to paywalled versus non-paywalled content.
The lawsuit presented to the Delhi High Court was Ultrahuman’s attempt to “defend” a particular patent and maintain its position at the forefront of open health data. However, regarding Oura’s paywalled content, it argued that locking “them behind a paywall is anti-innovation and anti-consumer.”
Read MoreJust as I was beginning to speculate about Acer’s recent activities, IFA 2025 unfolds.
What you should know
– During IFA 2025, Acer unveiled the Chromebook Plus Spin 514, utilizing MediaTek’s Kompanio Ultra processor.
– Acer also rolled out two fresh Chromebox variants: the Chromebox CXI6 and Chromebox Mini CXM2.
– The Spin 514 and CXI6 are set to launch later this year, while the Mini CXM2 will be available in Q1 2026.
This year has been unexpectedly quiet for Acer in the Chromebook sector, with the last significant update arriving back in April. With IFA 2025 in progress, Acer determined it was the right moment to showcase a new Chromebook and also introduce two Chromebox models, alongside various other non-Android/ChromeOS products.
At the forefront of Acer’s IFA 2025 announcements is the brand new Chromebook Plus Spin 514. While the overall design may seem familiar, the Spin 514 is given a modern twist to mark its status as the first Acer Chromebook equipped with the MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910.
Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 Specifications
| Display | 14-inch, 2880×1800 (WQXGA+), 16:10, 60Hz (120Hz optional) |
| Processor | MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 |
| RAM | Up to 16GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | Up to 256GB UFS 4.0 |
| Webcam | 5MP (10MP optional) |
| Battery | Up to 17 hours (70Wh) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Ports | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 3.5mm Audio Jack |
| Dimensions | 313 x 232 x 15.5mm |
| Weight | 2.99lbs |
| Price | $699.99 |
This marks just the second Chromebook utilizing this chipset, which initially debuted with the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 earlier this year. However, Acer’s version may hold greater appeal to users, owing to its convertible design and USI-compatible display.
As demonstrated with the Chromebook Plus 14, the Kompanio Ultra 910 is incredibly powerful, adept at managing virtually any task. Additionally, this MediaTek processor significantly enhances AI capabilities, boasting 50 TOPS of AI processing to allow Gemini to operate efficiently without cloud dependence.
Yet, what’s the use of such extensive performance if constant charging is necessary? Fortunately, that’s not an issue for the Spin 514, thanks to its 70Wh battery, which Acer claims can last up to 17 hours on a single charge.
The excitement continues, as Acer’s newest Chromebook features a convertible design, complemented by a touchscreen display that supports USI 2.0. All of this makes it an exceptional Chromebook for all users, including students seeking something lightweight, portable, and flexible.
The starting price for the Chromebook Plus Spin 514 is $699, and it comes with a complimentary 12-month subscription to Google’s AI Pro plan. The new Chromebook is anticipated to be available sometime in October.
Not just one, but TWO new Chromeboxes
It’s quite rare to see a new Chromebox, let alone two at once. However, that’s precisely what Acer has launched at IFA 2025—the Chromebox CXI6 and the Chromebox Mini CXM2.
There are slight distinctions between the two models, beginning with the Chromebox CXI6 offering four processor choices. The base model features a 13th Gen Intel Core i3-1305U, while the premium model utilizes the Intel Core i7-150U. In contrast, the Mini CXM2 is available in three configurations: Intel N150, N250, and Core i3 N350.
Acer Chromebox CXI6 & Mini CXM2 Specifications
| | Acer Chromebox CXI6 | Acer Chromebox Mini CXM2 |
| Processor(s) | Intel Core i3-1305U, Core i3 100U, Core i5 120U, Core i7 150U | Intel N150, N250, Core i3 N350 |
| RAM | Up to 16GB DDR4 | Up to 16GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | Up to 256GB M.2 PCIe SSD | Up to 128GB eMMC |
| Front Ports | 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB 3
U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta’s latest decision in the antitrust litigation involving Google signifies a crucial shift, particularly regarding the changing influence of “general artificial intelligence” in the digital search arena. On September 2, Judge Mehta ruled that Google was not obligated to relinquish its Chrome or Android assets, a decision the Department of Justice (DOJ) had previously contemplated to boost competition in the online search realm. Rather, Google is now mandated to share its search data with rivals and is barred from entering exclusive agreements for its Google Search, Chrome, Google Assistant, and Gemini offerings.
The ongoing case initially saw the DOJ advocating for Google to divest Chrome and Android to provide other search engines a fair opportunity to attract users. Nonetheless, Judge Mehta indicated that the plaintiffs had exceeded their bounds by requesting forced divestiture, as Google had not utilized these assets to enforce unlawful restrictions.
The legal context of this case has been altered with the advent of general artificial intelligence, impacting the landscape of online search. This evolution has led to a reassessment of tactics to tackle Google’s dominance in the market.
The proceedings of this case commenced in August 2024, when the DOJ explored multiple avenues to address the antitrust concerns, including compelling Google to divest Chrome and Android or increasing data sharing with competitors. By March 2025, the DOJ persisted in advocating for the divestiture of Chrome, convinced it would allow other search engines to broaden their user demographics.
While stepping back from its demands for the sale of Google’s AI assets, the DOJ continues to concentrate on enforcing stricter regulatory measures. Judge Mehta’s judgment represents a middle ground, prioritizing data sharing over asset divestment, as the role of AI in search continues to advance.
Read MoreThe OnePlus Watch 3 is the leader in battery life among Wear OS devices, but is that sufficient to outshine Google?
Wear OS timepieces are making a comeback, and the competition is fierce. Google and Samsung dominate the scene, yet brands like OnePlus are also re-entering the Wear OS arena. This is excellent news for those in the market for a smartwatch — there’s never been a better moment to seek a new one. Two standout choices are the Google Pixel Watch 4 and the OnePlus Watch 3.
Both Google and OnePlus were initially slow to roll out their flagship smartwatches in various sizes, but now you can choose between the Pixel Watch 4 and OnePlus Watch 3 in both large and small options. Each offers unique features, with Google focusing on Fitbit integration and OnePlus emphasizing battery longevity. Let’s delve into how these two top Wear OS smartwatches stack up against each other to help you determine which suits your needs.
Google Pixel Watch 4 vs. OnePlus Watch 3: Design and display
The Google Pixel Watch 4 and the OnePlus Watch 3 are unique in their design aesthetics. Google’s smartwatch showcases a delicate and stylish look, somewhat akin to classic analog watches. Even the larger 45mm variant maintains its sophisticated charm, showcasing a domed glass and display that merge smoothly into the round aluminum body. In contrast, the OnePlus Watch 3 embraces a bolder design language that also draws inspiration from analog watches, but leans into a more robust presentation.
The smaller 43mm OnePlus Watch 3 is more understated in appearance, akin to the Pixel Watch 3 but lacks the domed glass feature. Conversely, the original OnePlus Watch 3 boasts a substantial 46.6mm size, appearing quite large on most wrists. It features a metallic bezel with dial indicators that safeguard the digital OLED screen. Additionally, both sizes come with two buttons that now rotate for software navigation.
As illustrated in the comparison below, both variants of the OnePlus Watch 3 are eye-catching and resilient, though the 43mm OnePlus Watch 3 is undoubtedly more discreet.
The Google Pixel Watch 4 is offered in 41mm and 45mm sizes, both of which are smaller than the corresponding sizes of the OnePlus Watch 3. It features an Actua 360 AMOLED LTPO display, with a domed screen that complements the cover glass this year. It achieves a peak brightness of 3,000 nits and a variable refresh rate between 1-60Hz. Consequently, the Pixel Watch 4 will appear brighter and more legible in outdoor settings.
The OnePlus Watch 3 also incorporates an LTPO AMOLED display, but this one has a resolution of 466×466 and a peak brightness of 2,200 nits. While it’s comparable to Google’s display, it isn’t as bright, which might be a concern during outdoor workouts in direct sunlight.
The OnePlus Watch 3 is decidedly sturdier, constructed with a stainless steel frame and sapphire-crystal glass. It also boasts IP68/5ATM dust and water resistance, similar to the Pixel Watch 4. While the Pixel Watch 4 is equipped with Corning Gorilla Glass 5 and an aluminum chassis, it doesn’t measure up to the durability of the OnePlus Watch 3 in this regard. The domed glass design might pose a risk in this respect, as it could be more susceptible to scratches or damage.
Google Pixel Watch 4 vs. OnePlus Watch 3: Hardware and specs
The Google Pixel Watch 4 arrives with a chip enhancement compared to the OnePlus Watch 3, although it may not be as significant as expected. OnePlus utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chip, which was once the premier smartwatch processor. Now, the Pixel Watch 4 features the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2. In terms of sheer performance, you shouldn’t anticipate one device performing significantly better or worse than the other.
The new chipset doesn’t introduce substantial performance improvements; rather, it emphasizes a reduced size, dual-band GPS functionality, and on-watch satellite connectivity. These enhancements are appealing features of the Pixel Watch 4, yet they do not boost processing power. Both the Pixel Watch 4 and the OnePlus Watch 3 are equipped with co-processors designed to execute specific tasks while conserving battery life.
Specifically, the OnePlus Watch 3 employs Wear OS 5 and an RTOS (a supplemental operating system) to extend its multi-day battery life. The Google Pixel Watch 4 offers superior software support, comes pre-installed with Wear OS 6, and implements Material 3 Expressive. Nevertheless, the dual-OS strategy of the OnePlus Watch 3 provides a significant edge in battery longevity.
The 46mm variant of the OnePlus Watch 3 delivers up to five days of battery life on a single charge in smartwatch mode. Meanwhile, the 45mm Pixel Watch 4 has a maximum battery life of
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