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Happy Mobile Monday! Today, I am diving into the best phones of 2024, a year that has brought us remarkable innovations in smartphone technology. The TECNO Phantom Ultimate 2, a concept tri-fold, and Huawei’s Mate XT, a production-ready model, serve as unique entries in the foldable market, showcasing ambitious designs that push boundaries. Apple, Samsung, and Google continue to dominate as key players with their globally available devices—each setting a benchmark for quality and user experience. Meanwhile, other contenders like VIVO and TECNO have stepped up to challenge the norm, delivering impressive foldable options and innovative features. Whether it’s the revolutionary AI capabilities, cutting-edge cameras, or foldable technology that truly takes smartphones to the next level, this year’s selection reflects an exciting blend of creativity and technical achievement.

Huawei Mate XT

A true innovation in foldable technology, Huawei’s Tri Fold redefines what it means to multitask on the go.

The Huawei Mate XT introduces an impressive three-part foldable design, seamlessly transitioning between smartphone and tablet modes. It features a high-grade aluminum frame and glass back for a premium feel. When unfolded, its 10.5-inch OLED display is ideal for productivity and media. The hinge mechanism ensures a smooth and durable experience, further supported by Huawei’s engineering prowess. With the latest Kirin chipset, the Tri-Fold easily runs multiple apps, supported by 5G connectivity for lightning-fast internet speeds.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Huawei Mate XT stands out for its unique tri-folding screen, offering versatility that regular foldables can’t match. It’s designed for power users who need more screen real estate without sacrificing portability.

Price & Availability: The retail price is $2,499. It is available in China.

What We Love:

• Expansive 10.5-inch OLED display.
• Versatile tri-fold design perfect for productivity.
• XMAGE camera system for impressive photography.

Not So Great:

• Available only in China with a wait list spanning over 5 million units pre-ordered.
• It is heavier compared to standard foldables, making it less pocket-friendly.
• Steep price from $3,499 to over $5,000 from resellers.

iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max

Apple’s latest iteration brings groundbreaking camera, video, and audio capabilities, all powered by the new A18 Pro chip.

The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max elevate Apple’s design and user experience with 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch ProMotion OLED displays for fluid visuals. Powered by the A18 Pro chip, these phones excel in gaming, augmented reality, and multitasking. The Pro lineup includes a r 5x optical zoom, and both models feature larger sensors for improved low-light shots. Spatial Video recording allows for immersive content capture, further enhancing the media experience. The improved audio system and Apple’s new Adaptive EQ enhance the sound experience on calls or playing media.

Why is it noteworthy?

The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max embody Apple’s latest technological advancements, focusing on enriched user experiences in both photography and video. Integrating the A18 Pro chip improves performance and ensures seamless multitasking, efficient power use, and impressive AR applications. These phones are ideal for users who prioritize cutting-edge media capabilities and a premium build.

Price & Availability: Retail price starts at $1,199 for the Pro and $1,399 for the Pro Max. It is available globally through Apple stores and major carriers.

What We Love:

• A18 Pro chip provides top-tier performance.
• Periscope zoom lens for the Pro Max with 5x optical zoom.
• Spatial Video feature for immersive video capture.
• ProMotion display for smooth interaction.

Not So Great:

• Periscope zoom is limited to the Pro Max model.
• Slightly bulkier design compared to previous models.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Samsung’s tried and tested foldable design returns with refined features for a seamless experience.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 exudes a maturity that offers elegance, performance, and reliability, providing a seamless and refined experience. The 7.6-inch foldable AMOLED display delivers an expansive canvas, perfect for multitasking, while the 6.2-inch cover screen remains practical for quick tasks when folded. Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, it ensures smooth performance across all applications. Samsung has also improved the hinge design, resulting in a more durable, streamlined folding mechanism. The Z Fold 6 also includes S Pen support, allowing users to jot down notes or sketches effortlessly.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a refined evolution of Samsung’s foldable line, offering both productivity and entertainment in a sleek package. Its expansive screen and S Pen functionality make it ideal for power users, and improvements in durability and the folding mechanism make it more reliable for everyday use.

Price & Availability: Retail price: Starting at $1,899. Available globally through Samsung and major carriers.

What We Love:

• Improved hinge design for better durability.
• Expansive 7.6-inch foldable display for enhanced productivity.
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor for reliable performance.
• S Pen support for additional functionality.

Not So Great:

• It’s still a relatively high price point.
• The foldable design adds bulk compared to traditional phones.

Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL

Google’s AI-centric flagship delivers the future of smartphones today with enhanced personalization and performance.

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL focus on bringing AI advancements front and center. Powered by the Tensor G4 chipset, these devices deliver adaptive user interfaces, real-time translation, and personalized photography features. The larger 7.6-inch display on the XL offers an immersive viewing experience, while the enhanced camera system leverages AI to improve low-light shots and video stabilization. The UWB chip enhances smart home integration, allowing for precise spatial awareness. The high-quality OLED display provides a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL bring Google’s latest AI capabilities to the forefront, making them ideal for users looking for a smart and adaptive experience. The improved camera system, combined with the Tensor G4 chipset, ensures stunning photography and smooth performance across all applications. With enhanced personalization features and cutting-edge technology, these devices represent the pinnacle of Google’s innovation in 2024.

Price & Availability: The retail price of the Pro starts at $1,099 and $1,299 for the Pro XL. It is available globally through Google’s online store and major carriers.

What We Love:

• Tensor G4 chipset for enhanced AI capabilities.
• Superior computational photography for stunning images in any setting.
• UWB chip for advanced smart home integration.
• High-quality OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Not So Great:

• Battery life could be improved, especially on the XL model.
• Limited color options at launch.

Not So Great:

• Battery life could be improved, especially on the XL model.
• Limited color options at launch.

iPhone 16

Apple’s latest iPhone 16 brings enhanced photography, customizable controls, a new camera control button, and impressive performance with the A18 chip.

The iPhone 16 refines Apple’s approach to design and performance, featuring a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display and enhanced camera capabilities. The A18 chip boosts overall efficiency for battery life, gaming, and multitasking. Smart HDR 6 and an improved night mode deliver excellent photography. The new customizable Action Button replaces the mute switch, allowing quick access to frequently used features like the camera or flashlight.

Why is it noteworthy?

The iPhone 16 is designed for users seeking premium performance in a compact form factor. Its A18 chip and enhanced camera system provide an optimal blend of speed, power efficiency, and intuitive photography tools. The customizable Action Button is a unique feature that makes day-to-day use convenient.

Price & Availability: Retail price starts at $899. It is available globally through Apple stores and major carriers.

What We Love:

• A18 chip for efficient performance and battery life.
• Smart HDR 6 for vibrant and detailed photography.
• Customizable Action Button adds convenience.
• Sleek and familiar Super Retina XDR display.

Not So Great:

• Lack of periscope zoom found in the Pro lineup

TECNO Phantom Ultimate 2

TECNO takes on the foldable competition with an ultra-thin tri-fold concept that rivals Samsung and Huawei.

The TECNO Phantom Ultimate 2 is a concept that pushes the boundaries of foldable technology, offering an ultra-thin tri-fold design poised to disrupt the market. Its seamless design features three segments that fold in harmony, creating a pocket-sized device that expands into a full-fledged tablet experience. The OLED panel is bright and sharp, making the most of its flexible form factor. TECNO has equipped the Phantom Ultimate 2 with a new cooling system to maintain optimal performance despite its thin profile while focusing on durability to ensure that the unique folding mechanism withstands everyday use.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Phantom Ultimate 2 stands out in the crowded foldable space with its daring tri-fold design, making it a bold alternative to Samsung and Huawei’s offerings. Its sleek and thin build, coupled with TECNO’s attention to durability and cooling, provides an elegant solution to common foldable issues.

Price & Availability: Currently a concept, with limited availability anticipated in select markets in late 2024.

What We Love:

• Ultra-thin tri-fold design for portability.
• Bright and sharp OLED display.
• Innovative cooling system for performance stability.

Not So Great:

• As a concept, availability is uncertain.
• Durability in real-world use remains untested.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra offers a refined design, powerful performance, and an industry-leading camera system, setting a new standard for flagship smartphones.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra continues Samsung’s tradition of pushing the boundaries of mobile technology. With a stunning 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, this device delivers exceptional brightness and color accuracy, perfect for media consumption and productivity tasks. Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, the Galaxy S24 Ultra excels in multitasking, gaming, and overall performance. Its 200MP camera system has also been enhanced, featuring improved image processing for crystal-clear photos, even in low light. The S Pen remains integrated, allowing users to jot down notes or create sketches seamlessly.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Galaxy S24 Ultra delivers top-tier specs, featuring a powerful 200MP camera and integrated S Pen for added functionality. It combines precision, versatility, and user-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a premium smartphone experience.

Price & Availability: Retail price starting at $1,299. Available globally through Samsung and major carriers.

What We Love:

• 200MP camera system for incredible detail.
• Integrated S Pen for added functionality.
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset for top-tier performance.
• 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with stunning brightness and color accuracy.

Not So Great:

• The large size and sharp corners make it uncomfortable for extended use and less practical for carrying in pockets.
• Charging speed is slower compared to other flagship devices.

VIVO X Fold 3 Pro

VIVO’s X Fold 3 Pro pushes the envelope of foldable phone design, putting the competition on notice with its performance and innovative features.

The VIVO X Fold 3 Pro is designed for users who demand the best of both worlds—smartphone portability and tablet functionality. With a stunning 8.03-inch AMOLED main display and a 6.53-inch cover display, this foldable offers ample screen space for productivity and entertainment. VIVO has utilized its new hinge design, which has improved durability and reduced the visible crease, making it nearly seamless when unfolded. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the X Fold 3 Pro delivers a smooth performance experience, while its camera system, developed in partnership with ZEISS, offers exceptional mobile photography capabilities.

Why is it noteworthy?

The VIVO X Fold 3 Pro impresses with its seamless design and flagship performance. The enhanced hinge mechanism and partnership with ZEISS for the camera system make it a formidable contender in the foldable market, ideal for users who want an immersive display and high-quality photography in a foldable form.

Price & Availability: Retail price starting at $1,799. Available in select markets globally.

What We Love:

• 8.03-inch AMOLED display for an expansive viewing experience.
• Improved hinge design reduces the visible crease.
• ZEISS-engineered camera system for outstanding mobile photography.
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for top-tier performance.

Not So Great:

• Heavier than some other foldables, making it less portable.
• Limited availability in certain regions.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

Google enters the foldable market with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the thinnest, brightest, and most powerful foldable yet.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold takes the established Pixel brand and turns it into a sleek foldable that stands out for its slim profile and stunning display. At just 5.5mm when unfolded, this is the thinnest foldable on the market. The device features a bright and vivid 7.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and smooth animations. The new Tensor G4X chipset powers the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, providing powerful performance for all applications, including AI-based optimizations that improve battery efficiency and multitasking. The improved hinge mechanism is designed to be both durable and ergonomic, making the foldable experience intuitive and enjoyable.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is more than just Google’s entry into the foldable market—it represents a significant leap in design and performance, combining Google’s AI capabilities with a foldable form factor. Its incredibly thin design, powerful chipset, and stunning display make it one of the most attractive foldable options available today.

Price & Availability: Retail price starting at $1,599. Available globally through Google’s online store and major carriers.

What We Love:

• Advanced audio recording features for high-quality sound capture, perfect for content creators.
• Stunning 7.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
• Tensor G4X chipset for powerful performance and AI capabilities.
• Durable and ergonomic hinge mechanism.

Not So Great:

• No dust resistance, which may affect durability over time.
• The ultra-thin design compromises overall structural rigidity, making it potentially more fragile than other foldable.
• Sharp corner edges may be uncomfortable for prolonged use.

TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G

TECNO’s Phantom V Fold2 5G blends precision with innovation in foldable technology, delivering a versatile and premium experience.

The TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G is a testament to TECNO’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of foldable design. Featuring a vibrant 7.8-inch AMOLED foldable display, it offers a stunning visual experience that rivals the best in the industry. The outer 6.3-inch screen remains highly usable, giving users the convenience of a traditional smartphone when folded. Powered by the Dimensity 9200 chipset, the Phantom V Fold2 provides seamless multitasking capabilities, perfect for productivity and media consumption. TECNO has also integrated advanced hinge technology, making folding and unfolding a smooth and reliable experience.

Why is it noteworthy?

The TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G stands out with its balance of precision engineering and innovative features. The foldable AMOLED display delivers a stunning visual experience, while the Dimensity 9200 chipset ensures smooth performance. TECNO’s focus on hinge durability and usability makes this device a strong contender in the foldable market.

Price & Availability: Retail price starting at $1,499. Available globally through TECNO’s official channels and select partners.

What We Love:

• Advanced hinge technology for a smooth folding experience.
• 7.8-inch AMOLED display for stunning visuals.
• Dimensity 9200 chipset for efficient multitasking.
• Practical outer display for convenient use.

Not So Great:

• Limited color options at launch.
• Slightly heavier than some competitors.

2024 has been a year of groundbreaking advancements from tri-fold concepts to AI-powered innovations; the devices on this list highlight the best of what technology has to offer today. Whether you’re after cutting-edge features, enhanced productivity, or sleek design, this lineup of phones has something for everyone.

Do you agree with our choices? Are there any phones on your wish list, or do you already own one of these? We’d love to hear your thoughts and see how your favorite devices compare to ours!

The post 10 Best Phones of 2024 You Can’t Miss – Foldables, Flagships, and Surprises! first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Come IFA 2024 and the race for the next generation Copilot+ PCs has kicked off. While Asus has showcased its portfolio of technologically advanced laptops, Samsung is keeping it low-key. The South Korean tech giant has introduced its debut entrant – Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 – into the Copilot+ PCs arena through a blog post.

Why has Samsung refrained from showcasing the thin, lightweight, and highly powerful laptop at the IFA is anybody’s guess, but from what the blog post reveals, the Book5 Pro definitely has an OLED display and a battery life to win more customers than the predecessors would have. Considering the fact that the laptop will be available only in select markets – France, Germany, the UK and the US per se – at launched later this month, the initial sales may not be clear indicators, the numbers would likely rise as and when the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 goes on sale in other parts of the world.

Designer: Samsung

AI-focused Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 is powered by an Intel Core 7 Ultra Series 2 processor, which would provide the next level of computing prowess to this convertible laptop. Offered with a 16-inch OLED display, that can rotate a full 360 degrees, the laptop comes with an S Pen to ensure you can use it as a Windows tablet when you need it.

So, instead of just being a game-changing laptop, the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360, of course, is an undeniable tablet as well. Adding to it is its 10-point multi-touchscreen display that touts 3K super-resolution and 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Despite its large 16-inch form factor, the convertible laptop weighs only 1.69kg and measures roughly 12.8mm at the thickest point.

Besides the immaculate display and the incredible computing power – thanks to its 200V Lunar Lake Intel processor that provides the laptop with 47 TOPS (trillion operations per second) of NPU (neural processing unit) power, which qualifies the system for the Copilot+ PC branding – it also impresses with its battery life. Interestingly, the Book5 Pro 360 comes with a 76Wh battery that powers up using a 65W USB-C adapter and can easily last up to 25 hours of video playback blasting out through its Dolby Atmos quad speakers.

Samsung provides the Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM paired with a choice of 512GB or 1TB NVMe SSD. For connectivity, this slim laptop accommodates a HDMI 2.1 port, a pair of Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-A 3.2, and a headphone/mic combo jack. Featuring Wi-Fi 7 (be, 2×2) and Bluetooth 5.4 support, the laptop is available for preorder as we speak. It is priced at £1,700 ($2,250) for the 512GB variant, and £1,900 ($2,500) for the 1TB version in the UK.

The post Galaxy Book5 Pro 360: Samsung’s AI-Powered Convertible Laptop with Lunar Lake and 25-Hour Battery first appeared on Yanko Design.

Samsung’s Galaxy Buds3 Pro has made a strong entrance with its stylish stem design and practical features. These earbuds offer a powerful audio experience thanks to a dual-driver system that delivers clear highs and deep bass, making them perfect for music lovers. The ergonomic silicone tips ensure a snug fit, providing comfort during long listening sessions, and their IP57 rating adds protection against water and dust, making them great for active users.

Designer: Samsung

Packed with smart features, these buds include AI-powered sound adjustments that adapt to your environment, enhancing your listening experience. The real-time translation feature is a handy tool for travelers and language enthusiasts. While some features work best with Samsung’s latest devices, the Buds 3 Pro offers a strong mix of style, technology, and sound quality. Whether you’re on a call, streaming music, or navigating through your day, these earbuds are built to meet the needs of everyday life.

Design and Aesthetics

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro embraces a design that marries functionality with elegance. The stem-style structure enhances usability and audio performance by incorporating advanced components like control sensors and batteries within the stems, contributing to superior sound quality and call clarity.

The customizable “blade lights” on the stems offer a neat and stylish feature, but they may not appeal to everyone looking for simplicity. While the lighting adds flair, my focus remains on sound quality, comfort, and overall performance. The lights are a nice touch but not a critical factor in choosing these earbuds.

The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit, with silicone tips that improve noise isolation and enhance sound quality. With an IP57 rating, these earbuds are reliable for various environments, whether you’re at the gym or exploring outdoors. We’ll explore the performance aspects further down, diving into how these features impact real-world use and contribute to the overall listening experience.

From a design perspective, there are limited ways to create Bluetooth headsets. They can fit directly in the ear or include a stem, as seen in the Buds3 Pro. This design is practical, enhancing usability by allowing better placement of components like microphones and batteries.

While the Buds 3 Pro’s design draws inspiration from other successful models, the inclusion of unique features like customizable lighting and advanced audio technology sets these earbuds apart. They offer a compelling combination of high performance and style, making them attractive for those who value both aesthetics and functionality in their wireless audio gear.

Ergonomics

From my perspective, the design of the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro case has its pros and cons. I like that the case is lightweight and features practical additions like a USB-C charging port and an LED indicator for charging status. The transparent lid is also a nice touch, allowing me to see the earbuds without opening the case.

However, inserting and removing the earbuds can be awkward. They require a specific twist to fit properly, which isn’t the most user-friendly experience, especially when I’m on the go. I’ve actually dropped the earbuds a couple of times, twice on an airplane while fumbling around in the dark. It’s definitely not ideal. This is an area where the design could use some improvement to make handling the earbuds more intuitive and prevent such mishaps.

The earbuds are offered in two colors, white and black, with small red and blue dots to help indicate the correct placement in the case. While this color coding is helpful, it doesn’t completely resolve the awkwardness of fitting the earbuds into the case.

One thing I wish was smaller is the case itself. While it’s compact enough to fit in the coin pocket of my jeans, similar to the AirPods Pro case, it does bulge out more than I’d like. A smaller case would be more convenient for carrying around when I’m out and about.

Despite these concerns, the overall design remains stylish, and the case complements the sleek look of the earbuds. It supports wireless charging, which is a plus, but streamlining the handling and size of the case would greatly enhance the overall experience.

Performance

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro delivers exceptional audio quality, particularly when paired with newer Samsung devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 or S24 series. Featuring a two-way speaker system with a planar tweeter and dual amplifiers, these earbuds provide crisp, airy sound with robust bass. The 360 Audio feature enhances the soundstage, creating an immersive experience, although it can sometimes emphasize higher frequencies.

A key feature that enhances the audio experience is Samsung’s Scalable Codec. This codec adjusts the bit rate dynamically to ensure stable audio quality over Bluetooth connections. It provides near-lossless sound when the connection is strong, making it ideal for high-resolution audio playback on compatible Samsung devices.

The noise-canceling capabilities are impressive, offering Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Adaptive Noise Control, and Ambient Sound modes. ANC effectively reduces background noise, making it easier to enjoy music without distractions. Ambient mode is handy for staying aware of your surroundings while listening, and adaptive mode adjusts noise cancellation based on the environment. During my flight to Tokyo from Dallas and back, the active noise cancellation canceled out nearly all the humming from the engine, making the journey pleasant. Just note that for long-haul flights, you might need two pairs of earbuds. In my case, I had a pair of AirPods Pro to swap out. That said, I dare say the Buds3 Pro is competitive when it comes to sound quality and noise cancellation.

The sound quality of the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro truly shines across various musical genres. In “Hotel California” by the Eagles, the earbuds reproduce the intricate guitar work with remarkable clarity, allowing you to hear every detail as if you’re right there at the performance. The Buds3 Pro handles Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” with precision, capturing the sharpness and detail in his vocals and ensuring the instrumental elements are delivered with crystal clarity. When it comes to bass-heavy tracks like “Royals” by Lorde, the earbuds provide a strong yet balanced bass response that complements the vocals without overshadowing them. The complex musical arrangement in “Take Five” by The Dave Brubeck Quartet showcases the Buds3 Pro’s ability to maintain clarity and balance across a wide range of frequencies, with the piano and saxophone lines coming through with excellent definition and depth.

The Buds3 Pro excels in call quality as well. The triple-mic array ensures clear voice transmission even in noisy settings, while the transparency mode allows ambient noise to enter naturally during calls, enhancing the conversation experience.

Battery life is an area where expectations might differ. Samsung claims up to 6 hours of playback with ANC on and up to 30 hours with the charging case. However, real-world usage often shows battery life closer to 5 to 5.5 hours with ANC, 360 Audio, and high-resolution streaming enabled. Wireless charging and quick charging capabilities add convenience, but for extended listening sessions, having a backup or access to charging is advisable.

The Buds3 Pro also impresses with its sweat-proof performance. I’ve used them to mow the yard in 100-degree weather, and they remain in my ears exceptionally well without any issues with performance. Their IP57 rating ensures they can handle both sweat and dust, making them a reliable choice for outdoor activities and workouts.

Compared to the standard Galaxy Buds 3, the Buds 3 Pro offers enhanced audio quality, more advanced noise control options, and longer battery life. While the non-Pro model provides good sound and basic ANC, it lacks the Pro version’s premium features and audio experience.

Overall, the Buds3 Pro is impressive in performance, making it a top choice for anyone in search of high-quality wireless earbuds with a rich, immersive sound experience.

Sustainability

Samsung has integrated sustainability into the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro by using post-consumer materials in their construction, which helps reduce the environmental impact of new plastic production. The company is committed to increasing the use of recycled materials across its product line, aiming to incorporate them into every component by 2030 as part of its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

The packaging for the Buds3 Pro is also made from recycled paper, which aligns with Samsung’s sustainability initiatives and helps further reduce waste. These efforts demonstrate Samsung’s dedication to creating products that combine advanced technology with environmental responsibility.

Value and Verdict

For anyone within the Samsung ecosystem, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro is an easy recommendation. These earbuds integrate seamlessly with a wide range of Samsung products, including smartphones like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and S24 series and Samsung tablets, laptops, and other smart devices. They offer features like adaptive noise cancellation and enhanced audio quality through Samsung’s Scalable Codec, making them an ideal companion for any Samsung device. This integration allows for smooth transitions between devices and enhances the overall user experience, making the Buds3 Pro a perfect choice for those who rely on Samsung’s ecosystem for their tech needs.

Even if you’re not part of the Samsung ecosystem, the Buds3 Pro is worth considering. They are compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled device and deliver exceptional sound quality, noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit, making them a versatile choice for all users. I enjoy having them as part of my everyday gear, whether in my go-bag for travel or daily use. Their performance and reliability make them a great addition to any tech setup, offering high-quality audio and convenience wherever you go.

The post Is Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro Worth It? In-Depth Review and User Experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Samsung’s next generation of foldable phones, Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6, will include AI-powered note-taking features. At this Unpacked event, Samsung also showed new Galaxy watches and earbuds.

Samsung has introduced its latest audio devices, the Galaxy Buds3 and Buds3 Pro. These new earbuds are designed to enhance your daily listening experience, whether at home, on the go, or working out. They come with handy features and a refined design, offering something for everyone.

Designer: Samsung

Galaxy Buds3: Versatile and Reliable

The Galaxy Buds3 are open-ear earbuds, perfect for those who need a dependable set for everyday use. They have a comfortable, ergonomic design that fits snugly in your ears, ensuring they stay put even during intense activities. Available in black, white, and navy, the Buds3 has a simple and clean look that works with any style.

The Buds3 delivers clear sound across all frequencies, with improved drivers that enhance bass response for a rich audio experience. Whether listening to music, taking calls, or watching videos, the Buds3 provides quality sound without fuss.

A standout feature of the Galaxy Buds3 is their active noise cancellation (ANC) technology. This feature helps block out background noise, allowing you to focus on your music or conversation. The transparency mode lets you stay aware of your surroundings when needed, making it easy to switch between focused listening and situational awareness.

The Buds3’s battery life is solid. It offers up to 8 hours of playback on a single charge and an additional 20 hours with the charging case. The case is compact and easy to carry, ensuring your Buds3 are always ready to go. Fast charging means you can get an hour of playback from just a 10-minute charge.

The Galaxy Buds3 also works seamlessly with other Galaxy devices. You can easily switch between your phone, tablet, and watch without missing a beat. Touch controls on the earbuds let you manage your music, answer calls, and activate your voice assistant with a simple tap.

Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Premium Audio Performance

For those looking for a bit more from their earbuds, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro offers advanced features and high-quality sound. These in-ear earbuds are designed with audiophiles in mind, delivering great sound in a compact, wireless form. Available in black, white, navy, and burgundy, the Buds3 Pro adds a touch of sophistication to your audio gear. 

The Buds3 Pro features Samsung’s advanced dual-driver technology, combining a woofer and tweeter in each earbud to provide detailed sound across all frequencies. The enhanced ANC technology in the Buds3 Pro is more effective, reducing ambient noise significantly. This creates an immersive listening experience in a noisy office or on a busy street.

The Buds3 Pro also includes a new 3D audio feature. This feature creates a surround sound experience that adapts to your head movements, making it feel like you’re in the center of the action. This feature is great for watching movies or playing games, providing a more dynamic and engaging audio experience.

Comfort is critical with the Galaxy Buds3 Pro. They come with multiple ear tip sizes and wing tips, ensuring a secure fit for all-day wear. The buds are also sweat—and water-resistant, making them ideal for workouts and outdoor activities.

The Buds3 Pro’s battery life is excellent. With ANC on, it offers up to 7 hours of playback on a single charge and an additional 21 hours with the charging case. The case supports wireless and fast charging, so you can quickly boost your battery.

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro also features intelligent active noise control, which automatically adjusts the level of noise cancellation based on your environment. This makes it easy to enjoy your music without constantly fiddling with settings.

Complementary Features with Galaxy Ring and Watch

The Buds3 and Buds3 Pro provide a complete health and connectivity experience when paired with the Galaxy Ring or Galaxy Watch. The seamless integration allows for effortless switching between devices, ensuring you stay connected and informed throughout the day. Whether you’re tracking your health metrics with the Ring, managing your fitness with the Watch, or enjoying high-quality audio with the Buds, Samsung’s ecosystem works together to make your day smoother.

Final Thoughts

Samsung’s new Galaxy Buds3 and Buds3 Pro offer a range of features to fit different needs. The Buds3 provides reliable performance and essential features, making them perfect for everyday use. Meanwhile, the Buds3 Pro delivers a premium audio experience with advanced noise cancellation and immersive sound. Both models integrate seamlessly with Samsung’s other wearables, creating a connected experience that fits your lifestyle. We’re excited to try these earbuds out in different scenarios and share our thoughts. For more information and to pre-order these devices, visit Samsung’s official website.

 

The post Samsung Galaxy Buds3 and Buds3 Pro: Your New Everyday Earbuds first appeared on Yanko Design.

Samsung has unveiled its latest wearables, offering plenty to be excited about. The Galaxy Ring and the new Galaxy Watch lineup, including the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch 7, are packed with features designed to keep you healthy and connected, whether you’re an extreme sports enthusiast or simply looking to improve your daily wellness.

Designer: Samsung

Galaxy Ring: A New Standard in Health Wearables

Samsung’s Galaxy Ring marks a significant advancement in wearable technology. With its unique concave design, this ring ensures comfortable and consistent 24/7 monitoring, even while you sleep. It weighs only 3 grams and’s incredibly lightweight and perfect for all-day wear. Available in nine sizes and three finishes—titanium black, titanium silver, and glossy titanium gold—the Galaxy Ring combines style with functionality.

The ring’s sensors track vital metrics, including sleep analysis, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygen levels, skin temperature, and snoring. All this information syncs with Samsung’s Health app, available on any Android phone, making it easy to view your progress.

One standout feature is the Energy Score, which measures seven health metrics related to sleep, activity, and heart rate daily. Wellness Tips offers personalized advice based on your health data, acting like a personal coach for exercise, sleep, stress, and hydration. This level of detail helps you make informed decisions about your health.

Designed for durability and style, the Galaxy Ring is scratch-resistant thanks to its aerospace-grade titanium-grade 5 finish. It’s also water-resistant up to 330 feet, making it versatile for swimming, diving, or everyday wear. The multifunction case, featuring LED scenario lighting, adds to the ring’s appeal and functionality. When opened, it provides a welcome light and a battery indicator and starts pairing mode with a long press.

Connectivity is a big part of the Galaxy Ring’s appeal. It integrates seamlessly with other Galaxy devices, ensuring a connected ecosystem. With Samsung Find, you can quickly locate the ring if misplaced, as it lights up in red and green. The ring also allows gesture-based smartphone control, such as double pinching to snap a picture or snooze an alarm.

Battery life is optimized by turning off some sensors alongside other Galaxy devices, extending the ring’s operational time. Real-time alerts for high or low heart rates, auto workout detection, cycle tracking based on skin temperature, and inactive alerts are practical features designed to enhance the user experience and health management.

The Galaxy Ring is $399.99, and pre-orders start on July 10. This price includes access to all the advanced health and wellness data discussed, with no additional subscription required.

Galaxy Watch Ultra: For the Adventurous

The Galaxy Watch Ultra is built for those who push their limits. Whether diving deep underwater or hiking rugged trails, this watch is designed to withstand the most challenging conditions. It’s water-resistant up to 330 feet and meets U.S. military standards for durability. Crafted from aerospace-grade titanium, it’s both rugged and lightweight.

Jeffrey Kim, senior product manager at Samsung, introduced the watch, highlighting its first-ever 3-nanometer processor. This means smoother performance and longer battery life. It also has a dual GPS that ensures accuracy even in the city’s densest areas. The watch’s enhanced bioactive sensors deliver precise heart rate measurements during your most intense workouts.

Battery life is impressive, and there are options to extend it even further. Turn on exercise power-saving mode, and you can track your heart rate and use low-power GPS for up to 48 hours. Need more? The standard power-saving mode can keep the watch running for up to 100 hours.

Health and fitness tracking is where the Galaxy Watch Ultra shines. It features an Energy Score to give you a daily snapshot of your health based on sleep, activity, and heart rate metrics. Plus, it offers personalized wellness tips. The watch even tracks your sleep and can alert you if it detects signs of sleep apnea.

The design isn’t just about durability. It’s stylish, too. The Galaxy Watch Ultra comes in three colors: titanium gray, titanium white, and titanium silver. You can choose from various bands, like the quick-dry Marine band, the breathable Trail band, and the stylish Peak band, perfect for workouts or a night out. The watch feels sleek, and despite its size, it’s surprisingly lightweight. This makes wearing it comfortable throughout the day, whether hitting the gym or attending a meeting.

One cool feature is the quick button. Just tap it to start or pause your workout, complete a lap, or begin a new interval. Hold it for five seconds, emitting an 85-decibel sound for emergencies. The watch also helps with notifications, offering context-aware replies for quick responses in messaging apps like Google Messenger and WhatsApp.

Changing the straps is a breeze. The Galaxy Watch Ultra’s strap can be removed by clicking two buttons, making it easy to switch between styles depending on your activity or mood.

Galaxy Watch 7: Versatile and Stylish

The Galaxy Watch 7 is designed for everyone. It combines the familiar Galaxy Watch design with new AI enhancements to provide detailed health insights. Available in two sizes, large and small, it offers a range of stylish colors: green and silver for the large and green and cream for the small.

The watch bands are also versatile. You’ve got the sporty, quick-dry material for active days, a comfortable fabric band for everyday wear, and a leather band that looks great in any setting. The storage capacity has doubled from the previous model, giving you up to 32 gigabytes of space.

The Galaxy Watch 7 includes many of the same health features as the Ultra, like the Energy Score and Wellness Tips, helping you stay on top of your health and fitness goals. The watch feels sleek, and its lightweight design makes it easy to wear all day. The buttons are intuitive and easy to use, enhancing the overall user experience.

Both watches will be available for pre-order starting July 10. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is priced at $649.99, while the Galaxy Watch 7 starts at $299.99. Each watch offers something unique, whether you need a rugged companion for extreme adventures or a stylish partner for everyday wellness.

Complementary Health Tracking Throughout the Day and Night

Combining the Galaxy Ring with the Galaxy Watch Ultra or Galaxy Watch 7 provides a comprehensive health tracking experience. The ring excels in continuous 24/7 monitoring, especially during sleep, giving vital metrics like sleep analysis, heart rate, and skin temperature. It’s lightweight and unobtrusive, making it perfect for all-day wear.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watches bring more interactive features and on-the-go usability. During the day, the watches can track your workouts with precise bioactive sensors and offer real-time insights and notifications. With its rugged design and extended battery life, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is ideal for outdoor activities and extreme sports. The Galaxy Watch 7, with its stylish and versatile design, fits seamlessly into everyday life, whether you’re working out or attending a meeting.

Together, these wearables create a connected ecosystem that enhances your overall wellness. For instance, you can always wear the ring, ensuring continuous health monitoring while using the watch for more detailed interactions and tracking during your active hours. Samsung recommends wearing the ring on your index or middle finger for optimal readings, making it easy to integrate into your routine.

Final Thoughts

Samsung’s latest wearables offer a new standard in health tracking. The Galaxy Ring, with its advanced AI and comprehensive monitoring, and the Galaxy Watch lineup, with its versatile features and durable designs, provide a holistic approach to wellness. We look forward to testing out these devices. While I don’t typically wear a ring, I’ll do my best to get used to it. Stay tuned for more hands-on insights as we explore their capabilities in detail. For now, mark your calendars and get ready to experience the future of health tracking. For more information and to pre-order these devices, visit Samsung’s official website.

The post Samsung Galaxy Ring and Watch hands on: A Perfect Pair for Day and Night Health Tracking first appeared on Yanko Design.

Foldable phones are changing how we use our mobile devices by combining the best of smartphones and tablets into one. Samsung leads this innovation with its latest Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6. Let’s look at their design, drawing from my hands-on experience.

Designer: Samsung

The Galaxy Z Fold6 features a sleek, symmetrical design with straight edges, making it look refined and practical. It is 2.7 mm wider and 1.4 mm thinner when unfolded compared to the Fold5, making it feel comfortable and substantial. This design improvement makes the device easier to handle while offering a larger screen.

After using other foldables like the Vivo Fold, Honor Porsche Design Foldable, and OnePlus, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to hold and manage the Fold6. The flat and sharp edges add a modern touch. The design feels intentional, enhancing both its look and functionality. I’m a fan of the design, which balances form and function well.

The device is sturdy with its enhanced Armor Aluminum, which improves scratch resistance by 10%. This is paired with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back for better protection against drops and scratches. During my hands-on time, this combination felt durable, giving me confidence in its everyday use. These enhancements build on the Fold5’s already robust design.

The Galaxy Z Fold6’s hinge mechanism is impressive. The dual rail hinge design distributes shock better, making folding and unfolding smooth. This adds to the device’s durability and improves its functionality. The strengthened folding edge makes it more resilient against impacts. The hinge felt solid and reliable, addressing some concerns from previous models.

The main screen includes an improved protective layer that reduces the visibility of the crease, making for a smoother viewing experience. This layer also helps with shock absorption and protects the internal components. The device’s slim and light design, combined with these features, makes it robust and user-friendly. The Fold6’s display improvements offer a slightly better viewing experience compared to the Fold5.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 features a 7.6-inch QXGA+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity Flex Display with a 2160 x 1856 pixels resolution at 374 ppi. This display supports a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate, offering a smooth visual experience. Whether watching videos, playing games, or multitasking, the display’s colors and details are impressive. The cover screen is equally capable, with a 6.3-inch HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display, ensuring clear visuals in any mode. These display enhancements provide a noticeable upgrade from the Fold5.

The Galaxy Z Flip6 is designed for those who value style and functionality. Its compact form fits easily into pockets and bags, making it highly portable. The 3.4-inch Super AMOLED FlexWindow offers a dynamic way to interact with the device even when closed. Holding the device, it’s clear that Samsung has prioritized both looks and usability, creating a practical and stylish device. The Flip6’s design refines the Flip5, making it easier to use and more appealing.

The FlexWindow isn’t just for notifications; it supports interactive and photo ambient wallpapers that change based on the time and weather. This feature adds a personal touch to the device, allowing users to express their style directly on the cover screen. The interactive wallpapers respond to touch or movement, making the user experience more engaging. Experimenting with these features and seeing the wallpapers react in real time was interesting. This feature builds on the functionality of the Flip5’s external display, offering more customization options.

Customization is central to the Galaxy Z Flip6. Users can create unique wallpapers using the generative wallpaper feature, which allows the creation of images based on keywords. The device also offers wallpaper suggestions with diverse styles to suit individual preferences. During hands-on use, setting up and switching between these customizations was seamless. This level of personalization was more limited in the Flip5, making the Flip6 feel more unique.

The Galaxy Z Flip6’s durability matches that of its Fold6 counterpart. It features the same enhanced Armor Aluminum frame and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, ensuring it can withstand everyday use. The folding edge has been reinforced to resist pressure and sharp objects better. The Flip6’s durability improvements build on the Flip5, making it even more resilient.

Specs and Features: Power and Intelligence

Their intelligent AI features set the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 apart. These capabilities enhance productivity, creativity, and user experience.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform, optimized for AI processing, is the core of these devices. This processor enhances performance and enables a host of AI-driven features that make everyday tasks more efficient.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 boosts productivity with AI-powered tools. Samsung’s Note Assist in Samsung Notes offers translation, summaries, and auto-formatting for meeting notes. The embedded transcript feature can transcribe, translate, and summarize voice recordings directly in Notes. PDF overlay translation allows for seamless translation of texts within PDF files, even supporting texts in images and graphs. Composer in Samsung Keyboard generates suggested text for emails and social media posts based on simple keywords, reflecting your tone by analyzing previous posts. These AI tools are more advanced than those in the Fold5, providing a smoother user experience.

The enhanced S Pen experience on the Galaxy Z Fold6 allows access to convenient shortcuts by hovering the stylus over the screen. Smart Select expands the S Pen’s capabilities, offering features like translation, note-taking, and Sketch to Image, which provides image options based on your sketches. During hands-on use, these features made note-taking and content creation more intuitive. This is an improvement over the S Pen functionality on the Fold5, making the Fold6 more versatile for productivity.

The Galaxy Z Flip6’s AI capabilities enhance user interaction and customization. The 3.4-inch Super AMOLED FlexWindow supports interactive wallpapers that change based on time and weather, offering a personalized touch. FlexWindow provides quick access to various indicators and widgets without unlocking the device. Users can manage health, SmartThings, reminders, and news updates seamlessly. These features build upon Flip5’s capabilities, offering more customization options and quick access to information.

The generative wallpaper feature allows users to create unique wallpapers using keywords, adding a personal touch to the device. The suggested replies and interpreter mode make communication quick and efficient, with tailored responses and easy two-way translation using FlexMode. These features will be handy for anyone who needs it, making interactions more seamless. These AI enhancements make the Flip6 more intelligent and responsive than the Flip5.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 have AI-powered camera features. The FlexCam on the Galaxy Z Flip6 offers clear selfies and crisp AI zoom with its new 50 MP high-resolution camera and a 12 MP camera for enhanced low-light detail. The camera system on the Galaxy Z Fold6 includes a 10 MP cover selfie camera, a 4 MP under-display camera, and a rear triple camera setup. AI tools like ProVisual Engine and Photo Assist elevate photography, offering features like Portrait Studio and Instant Slow-mo. These camera enhancements provide a noticeable upgrade from the Fold5 and Flip5, particularly regarding AI capabilities and low-light performance.

The Galaxy Z Fold6 enhances the gaming experience with its powerful chipset and 1.6x larger vapor chamber, supporting longer gaming sessions with detailed graphics and Ray Tracing. The 7.6-inch screen with up to 2,600 nits of brightness ensures an immersive gaming experience. The Galaxy Z Flip6 also supports a rich multimedia experience with its flexible display and AI-driven features, making it versatile for productivity and entertainment. These gaming and entertainment enhancements build on the performance of the Fold5 and Flip5.

Running on Android 14 with One UI 6.1.1, the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 offer seamless connectivity options, including 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. Samsung Knox with Knox Vault ensures your data is secure, providing advanced protection against cyber threats. The devices also feature Live Translate, which translates phone calls in real-time, and Interpreter mode, enhancing communication in multiple languages. As someone who travels frequently to Japan and China, I find these features particularly useful. Using third-party apps like Alipay or WeChat in Chinese with real-time translations has been incredibly convenient, making communication and transactions much smoother.

Value: Who Should Upgrade?

For users with Fold5 or Flip5, the differences between Fold6 and Flip6 may not be substantial enough to warrant an upgrade. The Fold6 and Flip6 are iterative updates, offering refinements rather than revolutionary changes. However, for those new to the foldable market or upgrading from older versions like the Fold3 or Flip3, the Galaxy Z Fold6, and Z Flip6 offer significant advancements in design, AI features, and overall performance, making them compelling choices.

The free storage upgrade offer is an added incentive for new buyers. Pre-ordering the Galaxy Z Fold6 can get you a free upgrade from 256 GB to 512 GB or 512 GB to 1 TB, available on Samsung.com and through select carriers and retailers. Additionally, pre-orders made by July 23 are eligible for up to $1,200 in trade-in value for the Galaxy Z Fold6 with an eligible trade-in.

Final Thoughts

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 go beyond their sleek looks, representing the future of smart, user-friendly devices. Their AI features boost productivity, creativity, and overall user experience, making them perfect for everyday tasks. Whether you prefer the large display and productivity tools of the Galaxy Z Fold6 or the stylish flexibility and customization of the Galaxy Z Flip6, these phones offer a seamless mix of technology and design. My hands-on experience with both devices highlights their versatility and intelligence, setting a new standard for what foldable phones can achieve.

The post Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 Hands-On Review: Design, Features, and Performance Unveiled first appeared on Yanko Design.

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