As new smartphone cycles feel like they arrive ever faster, how do manufacturers make the latest flagship models stand out from the crowd, and even their own legacy models? If you're Samsung, you take the best of what you've already got, buff it up with some titanium, add a dose of AI and release the flagship Galaxy S24 Ultra. Does the new recipe make a flavoursome difference?
Samsung officially unveils the S24 smartphone series
by Ian Collen
With the introduction of Galaxy AI in 2024, the new line-up could be the first in line to benefit from some of its latest tech, powered by the new ProVisual Engine.
Google set to launch upgraded Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones
by Ian Collen
More confirmation than an announcement, but the latest Made by Google event also showcased a number of fresh features and improvements, plus the new Pixel Watch 2, with pre-orders for all now open.
Google set to launch Pixel Fold smartphone and Pixel Tablet
by Ian Collen
The not-so-secret new devices were showcased at its latest I/O event, along with a new Pixel 7a phone, plus updates to Android 14 and lots of Generative AI upgrades across its software portfolio.
The new Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra features a whopping 200MP main camera, a switch to the same new processor across all territories and a best ever battery life. It's a flagship phone with a flagship price, so are these new improvements enough to warrant an upgrade?
The M11S digital audio player is one of FiiO's more affordable devices and represents the company's latest attempt to establish itself as the obvious alternative to this product category’s overlord: Astell & Kern. How does it get on with this ambition?
Google set to launch the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro smartphones
by Ian Collen
The long-anticipated arrivals were officially unveiled along with the Google Pixel Watch, plus there was an intriguing bonus insight into next year’s Pixel Tablet.
Sony's latest Xperia handset keeps a surprising number of features from its flagship sibling and sports impressive display and camera capabilities, even at this premium level. While not cheap, has Sony managed to squeeze in a decent balance of features and value?
Samsung reckons folding phones are the future, so has it addressed some of the shortcomings in the first couple of Z Flip iterations such as under-powered cameras, processors and battery as it tempts users to binge the hinge? Let's take a look...
The Nothing Phone (1) is the first smartphone from former OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei's new company. Overly complicated nomenclature aside, there's a handful of features which aim to put the joy back into Android devices and it's out of the gate with an attractive asking price too.
Google follows last year's Tensor chip debutants, the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, with the Pixel 6a smartphone, a more affordable handset which also sports the company's impressive processor. Inevitably a few feature compromises have been made but will that actually affect your overall experience?
Would you rather watch TV without an expensive monthly subscription? Humax’s 4K Aura set top box is now on offer if you’re looking to ditch a fee-charging TV service for a freely available TV experience.
For its latest Pixel 6 and flagship Pixel 6 Pro smartphones, Google has introduced its own, years in the developing, Tensor chip which optimises the way hardware and software work together. Does this Apple-style proprietary processor deliver the goods?
The latest firmware update for the Aura 4K Android TV recorder brings a whole host of features including the Apple TV app, support for NOW, an enhanced user experience and bug fixes.
The Zidoo Z1000 Pro takes all the excellent features found on the company's cheaper Android TV media boxes and adds a high-end chassis, built-in HDD bay and antennas, and a full-sized Bluetooth remote control. Nice!
Freeview Play viewers get Android TV homescreen update
by Andy Bassett
Users of Freeview Play on Android TV devices will get easier access to content in a new makeover to the homepage.
Hi-Fi
Amazon Music fully available on Android TV and Google TV platforms
by Andy Bassett
Previously only available for a few select Android TV users, Amazon Music is now fully to hand on Android TVs, set top boxes, consoles and other devices that use Google’s smart TV OS, along with Chromecast with Google TV.
The new Humax Aura isn't just a Freeview Play PVR, but a fully functioning Android TV device with support for 4K and HDR, numerous apps, Chromecast, and a built-in Google Assistant.
Philips' 2020 flagship TV offers a stunning design, excellent image accuracy and video processing along with an Atmos speaker bar from Bowers & Wilkins. So is this the luxury TV you have been waiting on?
Google is pitching its newer smartphones away from the bruising powerhouse flagships of Samsung and iPhone and its latest Pixel 5 and 4a 5G models show off decent mid range specs with plenty of clever software.
Philips TV and Sound Wireless Home System launched
by Andy Bassett
In support of its Play-Fi based wireless ecosystem, Philips plans a range of supporting products including the upcoming W6505 and W6205 wireless speakers and the new 8000 series of soundbars featuring five models.
The Disney+ streaming service is now available on Philips Ambilight Android TVs in the European countries where the much anticipated SVOD recently launched.