Showing posts with label #apple. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #apple. Show all posts

Friday, August 19, 2016

The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 and The Apple iPhone 7 - Breakdown

Welcome back! Its been along time huh....
yeah i know, I've been a little busy, but now I'm not so busy so I can get back to you guys much more often (lol)

Its that time again, that annual (sometimes bi-annual) battle between the two mobile device moguls.
Yes Samsung and Apple are out for blood as they both simultaneously release their 7th variations of their most popular flagship devices.

however, there is one factor (in relation to both companies) that presents a considerable amount of concern.

And that factor is the lack of innovation, but we will get to that in a second. 

  • Samsung Galaxy Note 7
         Equipped with a 2.15GHz (1.6GHz) Quad Core Processor, A 12mp Camera with dual pixel tech (down from 16mp on the previous variation), a CMOS 5mp front facing camera, up to 256GB Expandable storage, 3500mAh battery, all topped of with the latest version of Android (Marshmallow OS, until Nougat makes its debut in Samsung devices). 

The Galaxy Note 7 definitely looks good on paper as far as specs are concerned, the design is familiar with some hints from the previous Note 5 (yes you read that correctly, they skipped a number) as well as some physical aspects of the S6 Edge with curved edges and that newly infamous glass backing, coupled with its incessant slippery-ness (a pain but also a pleasure lol).  

{See Picture Below}


As you can see, the design the is new for the Note series but familiar to those who have purchased a S7 or even the S6 Edge, both of which are still very relevant devices.

Some of the newest features worth mentioning on the Note 7 is the introduction of an Iris Scanner Security, not to replace the fingerprint scanner or your traditional pin number, but as an additional security feature to add some hardware flare. This scanner is ALMOST considered to be an additional camera, but its based on infrared tech to read your eyes and unlock accordingly, even so at night/low light situations. 

Other than that, the Note 7 has adopted a few features from the S7, like the always on display with some additional features like the ability to add a line of text that will always show on the lock screen. 

I'm guessing, that this particular variation of the Note series with have many software features that will be unlocked as more software updates are rolled out. I make this assumption because of lack of hardware upgrades this year. Maybe they have something large in store for the Note 8 or S8.
But that's only speculation...

  • Apple iPhone 7
         The iPhone 7 specs are all rumored, despite the various leaks (which are usually accurate), it does not appear to be to many changes to design, aside from one very, very daring modification...The removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack. 

So lets start there, with the removal of the headphone jack every piece of data, power or isolated sound (aside from the speakers) with flow through the lightning port. Of course many people aren't very excited about this, because of course that means unnecessarily adapters will have to be purchased just to maintain the continuity of life that apple customers are accustomed to. Say goodbye to the good ol' days of auxiliary cord controlled car stereo road trips (lol).

Another feature worth mentioning is the rumored Dual cameras that promises better image quality (as if Apple ever had a problem with camera quality), even at night and in low-light conditions.

As far as design rumors go, its supposedly set to be the same, of course with the modification to the camera area, im sure all new phone cases will be required, along with those new pricey accessories, of course.
{Rumored Photo Shown Below}


now that we've discussed these features on both devices....

I wish to pose this question....

What, exactly is next?

Sure the Note 7 is packed with features that most people wont ever use, and Yes on paper it is miles ahead of the iPhone in terms of innovation, But what is there to look forward to?

it would stand to reason (and this is just my opinion) that Samsung is beginning to run out of ideas, and this is to be expected of the company. to put it plainly when you are at the top, there isnt much to look up to. So where is Samsung's innovation coming from? as far as the Note line is concerned..

And in Apple's case, customers are marginally happy with the product that they've been given ( speaking on a general consumer basis ). most that patronize the company with their business do so because of the simplicity that is still unparalleled.  When comparing Samsung to Apple, it comes down to preference.

with that being said....

What do you prefer?

#Update The Note 7 is now available for pre-order (t-mobile will probably get them first, so it might be available now, with that carrier)
and as as far as the iPhone 7, it is rumored to be debut sometime between Sept 7th and 9th, with a equally rumored release date of or in between Sept 25th or 27th


Sunday, October 11, 2015

TechExpo' Season 6 - What Happened..(while I was away)

Hello and welcome back to another installment of...



A lot has changed in such a short time. So let me explain somethings.

Now, TechExpo' is ran solely by me (Matthew Rischer), and i have great expectations for the future. I'm back from my small holiday (eh a few months longer than planned), and i look forward to providing all those that are readers with the most up to date technological news. 

I only ask that you guys continue to be patient with me, as i am arranging my life accordingly to fit everything in its respective place.

So lets get in to a little news...


Since last we spoke, alot has happened 

The iPhone 6s/6s Plus has made its debut, as well as the Galaxy Note 5, Motorola 360 (2nd Gen), as well as Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), just to name a few major things.

also with the development of mobile payment systems such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Android Pay. 
Technology is making leaps and bounds into the future, that we may or may not be ready for.

with items like smart washer/dryers to smart-fabric that records your body movement, there are so many things for me to dive in, so with that being said! 

stick around as I do just that!

nothing major in this post just one big ol Welcome Back! 

These have been your technological announcements for Sunday October 11th, 2015
Please govern yourselves accordingly


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Tuesday, September 9, 2014

The iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus



Well the day has finally come.
the very day that half (or about one third) of the world was waiting for.

The release event of the new iPhone.

Now i want it to be know that I (Matthew) am, has and always will be a purebred android fan and connoisseur. This well known fact about me may not ever change..

And as much flack as I give to Apple's products and their lack of luster...
these devices appeal to a certain demographic of people that do not seem to mind the subtle changes that apple makes year to year. 

With that being said, lets get into what exactly happened today...

don't blink, you might miss these points... (lol)

okay okay ill stop... lol

    •  The Infamous 8mp iSight Camera now w/ Focus Pixels Tech (with Optical Image Stabilization on the 6 Plus)
    • Slow-Motion Video Recording  (120fps to 240fps ((really slow)))
    • Wifi Calling (when cell signal is too low to make calls)
    • VLTE Support
    •  Average of 10h on battery (from what i could make out, promise of a full days' usage)
    • Landscape View on select apps and even on Home screen (6 Plus Only)
    • A8 processor chip (25% faster than 5s)
    • 720p resolution (on the 6) and Full HD 1080p (on 6 Plus)
from what i could see, that was pretty much it. 
Of Course, the phones will come in the famous colors that include Gold, Silver and Space Gray
Pre-Orders begin Sept 12
and the phones will be available for regular purchase on Sept 19th

Prices are as follows...
for the iPhone 6 (4.7inch)
16gb - $199
64gb - $299
128gb - $399

for the iPhone 6 Plus (5.5 inch)
16gb - $299
64gb - $399
128gb - $499

why apple chose to do away with a 32gb model?...no one knows..
for the the price it should be standard...
but i digress lol

Again...i give Apple alot of problems when it comes to mobile phones. 
The company seems to know the tablet market as well as the markets of laptops and desktops. I just expect something mind-blowingly cool and exclusive, a gimmick if you will..

but maybe that's what i get for being an Android Fan..

I digress again lol

In any event
These have been your technological announcements for Tuesday September 9th, 2014
Please govern yourselves accordingly.

Thanks for stopping by
Come back and see us why don't ya!?

and don't forget to show our writer some love!

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= Matthew Rischer

until next time!

TechExpo'




Monday, August 18, 2014

Clash of the Tech Titans (Samsung vs. Apple vs. Motorola)



I have a problem. A problem that I haven't had in a very long time.

For the first time in about 6 years....

i don't know what phone i want..


September seems to be the magic month for new phones and accessories, and for a good reason...the holidays...

what better way to prepare to close out the year (as a business) than to release a new product that everyone (all the nerds like myself) has been anticipating since January....it gives us all time to settle into the "take my money now" mindset.. and it keeps the businesses in the black...or green, or blue or whatever is the good money making color....(lol i know its black....i think).

with that being said we have a few highly anticipated devices supposedly being announced in September (Hopefully released for sale by October/November). Those devices are the infamous iPhone 6 (4.7), the Samsung Galaxy Note 4, and the equally infamous Motorola 360 smartwatch (equipped with Android Wear which i will talk about in a separate blog post)

Even though this post is created before the official announcement of these devices, I'm going to deliver to you the most relevant of rumors that have the most validity. I wouldn't dare deliver information that I KNOW isn't true. 

Lets get in to it then shall we...

First up we have the iPhone 6.....

What's to be Expected? 

      well...we know for certain that the screen size WILL be the 4.7 and 5.5 inch options. we (I lol) also have confirmed that there will be different tiers of the iPhone just like before with the 5s and 5c. The lesser will mostly likely not come with the more expensive and highly famed Sapphire Glass...

speaking of which it seems that this Sapphire Glass is apple's new famous gimmick (everyone has them). Since one of the leading problems with iPhones, just so happens to be with the delicate glass on both the front and back of the phone. This Sapphire glass is highly bendable, extremely hard to scratch and very easy to keep clean, so you have that to look forward to... 

as far as the software side goes...apple did hint on something at WWDC a few months back, they mentioned a feature that allows you to remove yourself from group text messages... now i have to admit...that is a feature that i'm really looking forward to...like seriously..

Next we have the Samsung Galaxy Note 4....

So Whats New?

Well....there are alot of rumors going around about the Note 4 having a metal body, a quad HD display, an even more boss of a battery, stronger glass, a better camera

However...while these features have been confirmed, no one knows what else the phone will do...

Now i can guess (because sometimes i can be right...sometimes) that there will be a fingerprint scanner, and i can also guess that there will be a heart rate monitor for fitness applications, but those features have not been confirmed either....

Other than whats posted above, i cant confirm or deny any other features that the phone may or may not have.

That says a lot for Samsung. if you have unreliable leaked information, then that means you have a (for the most part) secure company. sure some details may slip out, but are they full details or just a piece of that is to come in september... 

Needless to say that Samsung's Note line hasn't disappointing us in a very very long time and i earnestly believe that the Note 4 will follow in those precise footsteps. 

Finally we have The Motorola 360 (Smartwatch)

What's This?

         Now i cant speak for anyone else, but this has to be the one device that I want over everything else I've seen this year. I have the Samsung Galaxy Note 3, and when it was released, it shared the spotlight with the Galaxy Gear and later the Gear 2 (Neo and Fit), and even further down the line the Gear Live, all of which didn't go over very well. LG even stepped out there with their G Watch, which was kind of hit and miss...more miss than hit. Motorola seems to have taken their time and created a product that ALOT of people want. 

we want a smartwatch that....


  • ...has a great multi-day battery
  • ...equipped with a great easy-to-read display
  • ...comes with software that can be customized
  • ...comes with hardware (wrist straps) that can be customized
  • ...easily pairs with your android (soon to be apple) device(s)
  • ...looks really expensive and unnecessarily cool and nerdy 

that last bit was for me.....

    But with that being said the Moto 360, as its being referred to, has promised all of these qualities and more. We wont know the "more" part until after the launch event coming up soon, but don't worry ill keep you posted. Ill make it my life's responsibility to do just that *side-eye*

Rumor has it that its starting off at $249....and they are going to get it from me....


with this, yes, i have the "Take My Money Now" syndrome..

don't judge me...

i know you are already but...

don't...


In Any Event


these have been your technological annoucnements for Monday August 18, 2014
 (its been a while huh).
Please Govern Yourselves Accordingly

Thanks for Stopping By


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and Life...real life that is..lol








Monday, June 2, 2014

The Lg G3

     

 Quick Blog!

        Released last week, The Lg G3 has already proven to be an awesome device. Now-a-days with flagship phones pretty much having similar specifications, the best way to sell a phone now, apparently, is to equip a device with one (or more) qualities that consumers just wont see on any other devices, or operating systems in this particular case.

I won't bore you with all the specs, being that they aren't much different from other popular devices at the moment.

but i will point out some things that make the LG G3 unique...

        1. Micro sd card expansion (up to 128gb) - this is something that I am so GLAD to see becoming common place in smartphone specifications. People want the option to have more storage without having to pay ridiculous prices for devices that do not allow for memory expansion *cough* (iPhone) *cough* oh....excuse me...


        2. Laser Auto-Focus - the G3 uses a laser to focus extremely fast and allow for "one-touch picture capturing". I'm just hoping it will respond with an reasonable amount of speed when it comes to specialty photo settings like HDR and background blur features...we shall see


        3. a beautiful 1440x2560, 5.5 inch True HD-IPS display with a pixel density of 534ppi (pixels per square inch) and Gorilla Glass 3...if you are in to this kind of thing, not much else needs to be said, if you don't know what im talking about...here is a translation....

its one of the best screens you can look at in 2014 (with the exception of the "Oppo Find 7 and 7a, which I will talk about later)

        4. New "Knock" Lock screen - Normally with android devices you have the option of using a pattern or password to lock your phone. Quite handy, with any device. But it depends on what you are doing or have touched before unlocking your phone that could leave its security at risk. Fingerprints do not lie. Aaaaand with most smart phone users, we like to keep our passwords simple for quick and seamless access, which can also tell on us, and let anyone into our phone...

       The G3 gives you the option to fool everyone again with its "Knock" lock screen. just like you would with a password, you can set up a knock password, where you would simply tap on a certain area of the screen (preferably with one knuckle) and unlock your phone. no passwords, no patterns, and no fingerprints. unless of course you have active knuckles...

I'm not judging anyone...

much.....

that's all the information I'm going to give, because i want to leave something to the imagination.

I've probably already spoiled most of the surprises, but that what tech blogs are for is it not?

in any event.

these have been your technological announcements for Monday June 2nd, 2014. 
please govern yourselves accordingly

Connect with Me!

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Please direct all questions and comments to the "Comment Section" Below! 
Thanks for Reading!




Monday, January 27, 2014

Do you think the World ready for Fully-Automated Vehicles?

Cars!!

       I found that the most impressive thing at CES or Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, (even though I didn't get to go)  was the technology that is beginning to appear inside cars. Its more than amazing. 

 However, what I really wanna talk about in this post is the self parking technology developments in vehicles.

BMW self parking system has come along quite well, with  driver lane assist (which keeps the car in its lane if you start to stray away)

Ford has definitely drawn some attention with improvements on some of the same popular features and more such as blind spot detection (which alerts you when a car (ect.) moves into a spot where your visibility can be challenged)

BUT!.......

Audi has caught my eye, with their self parking system developments.

    Imagine stopping your car in front of a hotel (with a open no-teller operated parking garage)
you get out of your car
....activate an app control on your phone (possibly even the key-fob)....

 and your car immediately leaves to find a parking spot

....yes
..
.....
.....

       that's what I typed..(said). your car leaves on its own and finds a place to park....and returns to you when you are ready to leave in the same manner....

you don't believe me....well here have a look at this


           now....I know that I am ready for this kind of tech to be in my car, but is everyone else?

the elderly?

young drivers?

people with disabilities?

       the idea of semi-automated ( fully automated ) vehicles is threatening to some and encouraged by others.
  Its definitely something to think about.

Think quickly because automated vehicles could be a reality by 2020 to 2022.

My question to y'all is....do you want to see this kind of tech in your car?
 how often would you use it?

Let me know....


And these have been you technological announcements for Monday January 27, 2014
please govern yourselves accordingly

Don't forget to comment and share!
Also I can always use suggestions and topics

Pause

Thanks for Sticking with me, Everyone!
I really appreciate it! 
I've been rather busy and its getting a little hectic but I shall not abandon this blog or its purpose!

Resume

Until Next Time


AwkwardlyNormal

Saturday, November 2, 2013

Whats on Your Christmas List?

  Below are some listed devices that i believe would make excellent gifts for the tech specific people in your lives! NO this isn't my personal list! LOL but nevertheless, i hope you are itching to get out there and shop as much as I am.  
Enjoy!
  • Phones
Galaxy Note 3! 
   The premier phone of the year! 95% of the worlds population would be so happy to unwrap this on Christmas morning, or some time thereafter (which ill talk about in a minute). Ive done a review on the Note 3 and all of its specifications shortly after the phone was announced by Samsung! 

check that out here ~~> (http://awkwardlynormal.blogspot.com/2013/09/samsung-unpacked-2013_5.html)
   
   Nevertheless, it would make a great present, and with the specials and sales already poking their heads out, NOW is the time to grab one, if you are considering it a Gift for somebody...or.....yourself.....lol.  ((disclaimer : prices vary by carrier))

Nexus 5 (a Google device)
    It seems like this device comes sliding in at just the right time! While the Note 3 is the premier phone of the year, The Nexus 5 is one of the most Anticipated Devices of 2013/2014. With so many leaks preceding its launch, Google has managed to NOT disappoint Nexus fans, while, at the same time, managing to grasp the attention of various users looking for an upgrade. 
   I've also done a review on Google Devices as a company product ( it is not a nexus 5 review, but that's coming!) 

you can check that out here ~~~> (http://awkwardlynormal.blogspot.com/2013/10/google-devices.html)
    
    in any event, the Nexus 5 is an unlocked, pure stock Android device which has been guaranteed to receive the latest android updates. (or at least for 18 months, but that's another blog lol) Plus it comes in at $349 for a 16gb, and $399 for the 32gb variation. Yes....an unlocked phone (meaning you can go to any carrier, EXCEPT Verizon...for now) starting at just $349.... yeah you cant beat those kinds of choices. would definitely make an awesome gift!

The iPhone 5s/c
    Yeah I know, iKnow.... you are surprised to see this phone here, but let me explain myself..... And this is just my opinion

The majority of apple product users like said product because its easy to use, and the quality is more than great. Even though Apple has failed when it comes to keeping up, they have managed to provide a consistent product since the creation of the very first iPhone. The 5s of course is the luxury model, and the 5c is the cheaper plastic variant, aimed mostly at adolescents and the elderly (we know its the truth, if you say it or not lol) ((prices also vary by carrier))

and , naturally, ive done a review on the iPhone as well

 take a look here ~~> (http://awkwardlynormal.blogspot.com/2013/09/apple-keynote-september-2013.html)


  • Computers/Laptops/Chromebooks
i always want to leave this category empty because...well...
when it comes to laptops, desktops and other mobile devices, you really get what you pay for. Yes there are sales all around for low to mid ranged devices, but you are really looking at about 2-3 years of use out of said device. so when picking something like this a gift, the higher quality, the more usage you will get out of it, and the more you will pay, initially. 

Check out the Google Play Store for their chromebook selection, 
  and if you want to know what a chromebook actually is check out my blog about them here ~~> (http://awkwardlynormal.blogspot.com/2013/09/chromebooks-are-they-really-worth-it.html)
  • Tablets
In this category, i am only recommending three different brands. 
    
    1.  Samsung (Note 10.1 ((2014 edition)), and Note (8inch) along with the Galaxy Tab 3 8, and 10.1 inch variants.
    
    2. The Google Nexus 7 ($229), and the Nexus 10 Tablet ($399)

     These tablets are supported by their mother companies, and have been promised to be equipped with the android and experience that we all deserve, now... you can take your chances with other brands, but I suggest these. you cant go wrong. 

    3. The Apple iPad Air ($499) and iPad Mini ($399)

    Yes, yet again the iProducts have made the list. The New iPad Air is simply impressive, the iPad mini is marginal for a tablet but still...Apple has proved that they remain a threat in the tablet department.

 Head over to Apple.com , Samsung.com and the Google Play Store for their tablets and shipping estimates.

  • Bluetooth Speakers
      I would have never thought of this on my own, but a bluetooth speaker would make an awesome gift.  One in particular that i like, is the mini jawbone speaker for $179 at Target (don't know how long that's gonna last but still...) 

    Here is a list of Target's bluetooth speaker collection , I'm using Target because that is the BEST place to get these kinds of accessories! 

  • Dongles
The Chromecast! 
    
   Its popularity speaks for it self. but just in case you haven't heard of it... The Chromecast is a device that hooks up to your smart television (via usb) and links your phone or tablet with your television! The device makes streaming from Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and Google Play Movies, seamless and Uncomplicated.

Plus...its only $35....yep

   the perfect gift for that person who just might have everything I've listed above except this! a good tech gift with out the high tech price! (its only compatible with android at the moment!) 
again, head on over to the Google Play Store for more information! 

  • Cell Phone Accessories (phone cases, earphones, wallet cases, stylus')
       Sometimes the little things add up! personally, i am a huge fan of phone cases. being an owner of a galaxy note 2, and having people comment on how large my phone is, i find it necessary to dress it up sometimes to make it stand out even more. i mean....i paid for it and all...why not? right? 

     When it comes to cellphone accessories Best Buy is your best bet! granted, they do not have everything in the world, but they do have the best deals on these things. 

     Phone cases are tricky though. so if you have an older phone like my ol Note 2, Ebay and Amazon will become your friend, when searching for a gift for that someone!....or again....yourself! XD

  • Black Friday Foolishness
i implore you.... please don't get involved in this!

   Working at Best Buy during Black Friday was a nightmare...for employees and customers. 

I'm going to give you some meaningful advice...

Start Shopping Now.....

you aren't saving as much money as you think. 

and you wont have to worry about these stores running out of stock on the item you were waiting to go on sale.

Stay Home on Black Friday. Relax, and don't shop at all! 
I'm doing just that this year.



These have been your technological announcements for November 2, 2013
please govern yourselves accordingly
remember to comment and share! 
and don't forget to come back and check on me! 
i could always use comments and suggestions!

Until Next Time



AwkwardlyNormal

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Chromebooks!!! Are They Really Worth It?

"Chromebook is ,essentially,  a slightly larger android-based tablet with a physical keyboard" 
     thats what I used to say when I worked for best buy during this past holiday season. 
     as the chromebook continues to retain its popularity. im inclined to stick to my statement. 

        for those who aren't familiar, the chromebook is a google product that provided a mid-spec ranged device that was comparable to the macbook air in size but tremendously easier on the wallet. currently....Samsung,  Hewlett Packard,  and Acer are the current hardware providers for these devices.
      I,  myself, have a samsung chomebook., and ever since the untimely, however foreseen , death of my motorola xoom familiy edition (death by getting stepped on) my chromebook has been a welcomed replacement to a tablet that I hardly used anyway.  when my tablet was alive, I simply used it for emails, a few games here and there, but mostly netflix. lol with that being said the transition for me wasn't very hard.
      I use my chromebook for my blogs, since I find it so much easier to type via physical keyboard rather that the on screen counterpart.
 

So whats the big difference you say?

       well other than the gigantic price gap, the specs pose a significant difference, i suppose. for example the samsung chromebook has a dual core processor (as seen in most older tablet devices, and no its not terribly slow) and is equipped with a 16gb solid state hard-drive (for quick boot-up and saving). which makes it a more than adequate substitute for a tablet, or even a laptop.
        it boots up in less than 30 seconds and as soon as  you type in your password, you are good to go. and there are no moving parts inside so overheating is not an issue.
       now, as with any device, everything has a drawback, missing feature or ability that other devices have.
        now with chromebooks,  you cannot install external programs, iTunes (and other programs that require installation)  for example, cannot be installed on one of these devices, instead google has provided an application store specifically for chromebooks to give you more of an exclusive experience with applications. games are available offline however.

        another "con" or drawback about the chromebooks is that there is no cd/dvd rom drive. so no burning cd's or watching hard copy movies...
the final drawback about the chromebooks is that EVERYTHING is done ONLINE, there is little to no activity that can be accomplished without an internet connection. 

           The Greatest "Pro" about these chromebook style devices is the price!

     My samsung chromebook only cost me $268 (after taxes) much less expensive than the apple alternative, and some android tablets, which, for me, was a deal breaker.

       There are many variations of chromebooks out now, ranging from $199 to $1299. low to high end of course. So head on over to the Google Play Store, and check them all out and see if a chromebook could be a replacement device for you as it was for me, or a quality gift for that college student, relative or close friend! with Christmas coming up. i cant imagine many that would be disappointed with a gift like this.  

well, these have been your technological announcements for Thursday September 26, 2013
please govern yourselves accordingly
remember to comment and leave suggestions!
i could always use topics.

until next time

AwkwardlyNormal