-
What do foldable phone cases actually protect?
Foldable phones are expensive and inherently delicate due to their hinge design and lower dust-resistance ratings compared to traditional smartphones, making protective cases essential. Manufacturers face the challenge of creating cases that offer adequate protection without compromising performance or aesthetics, though options are improving. Foldable cases typically consist of two parts: one covering the back,…
-
When are surround sound systems actually worth it over soundbars?
The article argues that a full surround sound system can deliver a more immersive home cinema experience than a soundbar, but whether it is worthwhile depends on the listener, budget and room. Soundbars are simpler and cheaper, and improve markedly on most TV speakers, while separate speakers can place sound more convincingly around and above…
-
When is it worth using a bike computer over a smartphone?
Smartphones can handle most casual cycling needs through affordable mounts and navigation apps, making a dedicated bike computer seem unnecessary unless specific problems emerge. However, purpose-built bike computers become worthwhile when battery drain, poor weather conditions or integration with specialized cycling sensors become regular frustrations rather than occasional inconveniences. Smartphones offer clear cost advantages since…
-
Foldable phones can replace casual tablets, but not for demanding use
Book-style foldable phones offer a large screen in a device that folds to smartphone size, making them a convenient option for people who use a compact tablet casually, especially while travelling. They combine phone and tablet functions and can avoid the need for a separate mobile data plan, but the convenience comes at a premium.…
-
Foldable phones offer larger screens and flexible use, but cost more
Foldable phones, offered by major manufacturers including Apple, Google and Samsung, are gaining consumer interest as the category grows beyond its current 2 per cent market share. Despite their £2,000+ price tag, 59 per cent of smartphone owners express interest in the category, signalling potential market expansion as consumers weigh the premium cost against the…
-
Apple’s foldable launch boosts interest in Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8
Apple’s recent announcement of the iPhone Duo, its first foldable smartphone, is proving beneficial for Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the broader foldable market. Although the iPhone Duo won’t be available until next month, the announcement alone has generated significant industry attention, with reports indicating increased sales of Samsung’s foldable devices as consumers become…
-
Google’s Android desktop mode brings PC-style work to Pixel phones
Google’s Android Desktop Mode lets Pixel 8 and newer phones provide a desktop-style experience when connected to an external monitor. The feature, introduced with the Android 16 March Pixel Drop after a beta period, aims to make phones more useful for productivity by supporting resizable windows, a taskbar-like interface and mouse-and-keyboard input. Users connect their…
-
Spotify offers Premium users AI-tailored running playlists in select markets
Spotify’s new Running Mode gives Premium subscribers in selected markets AI-generated running playlists on iOS and Android, tailored to workout type and musical tempo. It expands Spotify’s fitness offerings by letting runners choose structured sessions, customise songs and receive optional motivational audio cues, although it does not detect running pace automatically like the discontinued Spotify…
-
Quick router changes can strengthen home network security
A few quick router changes can significantly improve home network security, as the router controls access between household devices and the internet. The article recommends replacing default credentials and network details, enabling stronger encryption, separating guests and smart-home devices, and disabling convenience features that create vulnerabilities. Users should access the router’s admin panel through its…
-
Floor-bound PCs gather dust faster, risking overheating and reduced performance
Placing a PC on the floor can expose it to more dust, pet hair and debris than positioning it on a desk or shelf. This buildup restricts airflow, raises temperatures and may cause thermal throttling, reducing performance during demanding tasks such as gaming and potentially shortening the computer’s lifespan. If floor placement is unavoidable, the…