Apple today launched its new iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro line-ups which offer larger displays, an all-new Camera Control feature and a foundation for Apple’s very own AI – Apple Intelligence.

And this year’s iPhone 16 models are up to $100 cheaper than the iPhone 15 range.

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus along with the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will go on sale on September 20 and start at $1,399 (iPhone 16), $1,599 (iPhone 16 Plus), $1,799 (iPhone 16 Pro) and $2,149 (iPhone 16 Pro Max).

DESIGN AND DISPLAY

While the design has mostly stayed unchanged, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max have a Grade 5 Titanium frame.

They also now have larger displays at 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch respectively with even thinner bezels to give the Super Retina XDR screens an edge-to-edge look

The iPhone 16 Pro Max now includes the largest iPhone display ever.

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, made of aluminium with a colour anodised rear panel, have retained their 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch display sizes.

The other design change for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus is a re-arrangement of the cameras placed on top of each other.

APPLE INTELLIGENCE

Apple introduced Apple Intelligence at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June and the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max is where the rubber hits the road.

The new A18 chip aboard iPhone 16 and A18 Pro silicon aboard the iPhone 16 Pro models form the cornerstone for Apple Intelligence and power it’s remarkable capabilities.

Apple Intelligence will place powerful tools in users hands that will allow them to be more efficient, creative and productive.

It can be used to summarise and rewrite text, prioritise emails, messages and notifications as well as create images and emojis.

Apple Intelligence will kick off in the US when the new iPhones and iOS 18 is released this month.

For Australian customers, Apple Intelligence will be available from December.

CAMERA CONTROL

One hardware change is the addition of Camera Control – a new tactile switch on the edge of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro lineups that can be used as a shortcut to launch the camera, capture a photo, start a video recording and access other features including zoom, exposure and depth of field.

Camera Control uses a combination of short and long presses and touch gestures to access these controls and features to make capturing images and videos even easier, faster and more intuitive.

Later in the year, Camera Control will also be used for Visual Intelligence so users can learn about objects and places just by snapping an image.

For example, if you walk by a restaurant, you can press and hold the Camera Control button to unlock Visual Intelligence to identify the restaurant and link to its website so you can view the menu or make a reservation.

Visual Intelligence will also make it possible for users to perform a visual Google search to identify objects, animals and products.

CAMERA

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models boast a new 48MP fusion camera system.

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus now has a 2x telephoto option while the new12 MP ultra-wide camera with autofocus allows for wider shots and enables macro photography.

Also onboard are a range of new photographic styles which can adjust colour, highlights and shadows in real time.

iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus can also now shoot video with spatial audio to provide immersive listening through AirPods, Apple’s Vision Pro or a surround sound system.

The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max take the already powerful camera and make it even better thanks to a more efficient quad-pixel sensor.

The 5xtelephoto camera is also now available on both iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Last year this feature, made possible by the Tetra Prism lens, was only available with the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max cameras now allow for 4K 120fps video recording in Slo-Mo or Video mode and users can even adjust playback speed after capture in the Photos app.

The Pro models also have four new studio quality mics, with video now able to be captured with spatial audio to create an immersive experience to hear on AirPods and view on Apple Vision Pro.

Apple Intelligence will also come into play with the Pro cameras later this year so users are able to make use of a wide range of photo and editing capabilities as well as performing functions like adjusting the blur in the background of a photo just by asking for it.

PERFORMANCE

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are powered by the A18 chip – that’s a jump of two generations from the previous silicon – so it can do the heavy lifting when it comes to powering graphics and playing games.

Meanwhile the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max include the new A18 Pro chip which delivers a whole new level of compute power to the device to power features like Apple Intelligence and gaming and creating an even higher power efficiency.

COLOURS

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will be available in five colours – ultramarine, teal, pink, white and black.

The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will be available in four colours – desert titanium, natural titanium, white titanium and black titanium.

PRICING

The new iPhone 16 will be priced at $1,399 (128GB), $1,599 (256GB) and $1,949 (512GB).

The iPhone 16 Plus is priced at $1,599 (128GB), $1,799 (256GB) and $2,149 (512GB).

The iPhone 16 Pro is priced at $1,799 (128GB), $1,999 (256GB) and $2,349 (512GB) and $2,699 (1TB).

The iPhone 16 Pro Max is priced at $2,149 (256GB) and $2,499 (512GB) and $2,849 (1TB).

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Apple has unveiled its latest Apple Watch Series 10 with its largest and most advanced wearable display, a thinner design and remarkable new health and wellness features including the ability to detect sleep apnea.

Apple also revealed an updated Apple Watch Ultra 2 which includes an all-new colour and finish.

Apple Watch Series 10 will go on sale on September 20 and start at $649.

It will be available in two new finishes – aluminium (silver, jet black and rose gold) and polished titanium (natural, gold and slate).

The updated Apple Watch Ultra 2 will also go on sale on September 20 and will be priced from $1,399.

APPLE WATCH SERIES 10

The Apple Watch Series 10 now has a larger display (46mm) than the Apple Watch Ultra 2 to offer up to 9 per cent more active screen area than Series 7, Series 8 and Series 9.

Screen sizes for Apple Watch Series 10 have increased from 41mm and 45mm to the new 42mm and 46mm.

It is also the first Apple product to include a new wide-angle OLED display which makes it brighter and easier to read at an angle including when your hand is in your lap, by your side and while you’re exercising.

But not only does it have a larger display it is also nearly 10 per cent thinner than previous models which was achieved by integrating the antenna into the housing of the device itself to join two layers into one.

Apple Watch is powered by the new S10 SiP chip which powers features like double tap, on device Siri, dictation, the ability to automatically detect your workout and detect safety features like fall and crash detection.

Apple Watch Series 10 also includes a depth gauge and temperature sensing when you hit the water along with the Tides app.

The depth gauge can go down as far as six metres beneath the surface which makes it a great companion for snorkelling and shallow diving.

Apple Watch Series 10 will also have faster charging capabilities thanks to a larger and more efficient charging coil.

This means users can get the battery up to 80 per cent charge in around 30 minutes.

Users can now play audio through the Apple Watch Series 10 speakers in the same way they can hear their phone calls.

This means you can hear music, podcasts and audiobooks right from the Apple Watch Series 10 without earphones.

Among the new features with the new watchOS 11 is the ability to detect sleep apnea – a condition undiagnosed by 80 per cent of sufferers.

Apple Watch uses the accelerometer on board to monitor a newly created metric called breathing disturbances.

Every 30 days, Apple Watch will analyse this data and notify you if it shows signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea and provide a detailed report you can show a doctor.

This feature will be available in Australia after regulatory approval.

APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is now available in a new black titanium finish and with new bands.

The new black titanium finished is achieved with a new blasting process and diamond-like carbon physical vapour deposition coating over the Grade 5 titanium.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 is aimed users who want an elevated experience when it comes to fitness and outdoor activity in all terrains and in the water.

Apple says its GPS accuracy is the most accurate in a sportswatch so it can offer more accurate distance, route maps and other metrics.

On the sport and fitness side Apple Watch Ultra 2 is an ideal match for runners, cyclists, swimmers, hikers, divers and golfers.

The latest version of Apple Watch Ultra 2 also supports audio playback of content through the device’s speakers.

The Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 go on sale on Friday September 20.

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Samsung has confirmed the Galaxy Ring unveiled at its Unpacked launch event in Paris in July will be released in Australia in mid-October.

In fact, Australia will be the first country in the South-East Asia and Oceania region to receive Samsung’s impressive new wearable device.

Galaxy Ring is designed to be worn 24/7 to collect data and gather insights into your health and wellness.

All the data collected will be viewable in the Samsung Health app – a single free platform which allows users to monitor their health and fitness patterns and look for ways to improve it.

Sleep analysis will be a major part of the wellness analysis with Samsung bringing a new sleep AI algorithm to Galaxy Ring so it can understand your sleep quality and build better sleep habits.

Galaxy Ring will be able to even analyse your snoring and introduce new metrics including movement during sleep, sleep latency, heart and respiratory rate which all add up to a detailed and accurate analysis of your sleep quality.

It also has cycle tracking so women can also track their menstrual cycle.

But Galaxy Ring isn’t just about keeping an eye on your sleep, it can also give you information about your heart health with heart rate alerts which offers instant notifications for unusually high or low heart rates in real time via the Samsung Health app.

Users could also find out more about their heart rate including beats per minute, times starting time duration with live heart rate check.

Galaxy Ring can see when you’re working out through the Auto Workout Detection and offer daily prompts if you’re being inactive.

When paired to a Galaxy smartphone, users can use a double pinch via gestures to take photos or dismiss alarms.

And if you happen to misplace the Galaxy Ring you can find it via your Galaxy smartphone with Find My Ring on Samsung Find.

It will be available in three colour choices, Titanium Black, Titanium Silver and Titanium Gold, Galaxy and has a lightweight concave design.

Galaxy Ring will be available in nine sizes – from five to 13 – and customers can access a sizing kit as part of the purchase process to ensure it is a perfect when they receive it.

Here’s what customers need to do when they receive the Galaxy Ring sizing kit:

– Pick a size, try it on. Check the position of the three sensors on the bottom and the indicator on the outer surface. Wear the sample ring so that the sensors are facing up. Make sure the indicator is also on the palm side.

– When you find one that feels right, move your fingers around. Finger sizes can change from day to night, so it’s recommended to keep the ring on for at least 24 hours. Go about your day and sleep through the night.

– If your finger feels comfortable after 24 hours, that’s your Galaxy Ring size.

Pricing and precise release date is yet to be announced.

Customers can register their interest in Galaxy Ring here.

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At IFA 2024 HMD has unveiled their latest innovation, the HMD Fusion, a smartphone that allows you to dress it based on what you are doing, wearing or planning to do through various available ‘outfits.’

Priced at $499 for the phone the upcoming outfits will be an added cost but each outfit will customise not just the hardware of the phone but the software based on the software associated with that particular outfit.

The outfits are built based on a hardware developer’s kit and open-source software that is available to everyone, so HMD are hoping that more manufacturers help innovate and make this smartphone even more useful.

The outfits HMD are introducing themselves include:

• The Flashy Outfit with an in-built ring light controlled using software on the phone.
• A Rugged Outfit with IP68 protection that is dust-tight and protected against full immersion in water. This one includes wireless charging magnets and an ICE button — perfect for adrenaline junkies in the outdoors.
• Gaming Outfit with full console gaming-like controls for all supported games.
• Casual Outfit for a classy, stylish look to match your own outfit — available in a variety of colours.

The HMD Fusion sports a 108MP dual rear camera and a 50MP selfie camera for high quality photography whichever camera you are using.

HMD Fusion is design with their FIY (Fix It Yourself) in mind offering the ability to fix it easily yourself.  It includes Gen 2 repairability allowing you to easily change a depleted battery, smashed display and more. Using an iFixit kit available for $39.99 ht eprocess is relatively simple apparently.

“In this day and age, a smartphone is more than just a device for connectivity. It’s a fashion statement, a means to express ourselves and a tool for navigating the modern world. HMD Fusion is the next generation of smartphone – for the first time, we’re inviting people to embrace their creativity and build a device that’s totally tailored to them with our industry-first Smart Outfits. Fusion represents everything we stand for at Human Mobile Devices: creativity, innovation and collaboration, and we’re so excited to see what people create.”

Lars Silberbauer, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Human Mobile Devices (HMD)

HMD Fusion will be available from October 10 in Australia from Harvey Norman and JB Hi-Fi, Officeworks (online), Big W (online) and via www.hmd.com/en_au for A$499 RRP. Flashy, Rugged, Wireless and Gaming Outfits are available later this year.

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Google has released Android 15 this week, but it’s going to be a little while before we see it on phones, with Google’s Pixel phones set to receive the update in the ‘coming weeks’.

The Android 15 update has been available as a Developer Preview since it was released back in February, but the full release has now been pushed to the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) repository. 

The Android 15 update hasn’t been entirely outlined as yet, however the announcement did touch on some features. 

Privacy focused features are high, with a new Private Space being launched, that will let you keep sensitive apps separate with an additional layer of authentication on top. Google is also looking to improve their Passkey support, letting you sign-in using a single tap. 

Google is looking at their device range including the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the Pixel Tablet, with better support for displaying apps edge-to-edge, as well as offering a new layout which features an option to pin thte taskbar to the screen, letting you switch between apps faster – or save your favourite split-screen app combination.

There will be a lot more to come, with developers getting a head-start on building their apps for Android 15. Google is also starting a new series of feature focused topics called Spotlight Weeks, which will deep-dive the more technical topics in the release. 

With the Android 15 update now available publicly, Google says that we’ll see devices from a range of manufacturers including Samsung, Honor, iQOO, Lenovo, Motorola, Nothing, OnePlus, Oppo, realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, vivo, and Xiaomi receiving an Android 15 update ‘in the coming months’. If you’re a bit techy though, you can always pull the release and build your own ROM if you don’t want to wait.

For most of us though, we’ll be seeing the Android 15 starting to hit Pixel phones in the next few weeks. You can check to see if it’s available by going to Settings > System > Software Updates.

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Finding a pay phone these days can be a challenge, however they’re still around and being used – and used a lot according to the latest data from Telstra.

Over the last few years, Telstra has made a number of changes to their more than 14,000 public payphones around Australia. First they made  making calls free, before they also opened the Wifi Hotspot at almost 4,000 payphones to anyone.

Since making calls and data free, Telstra has seen a distinct jump in usage at their payphones. Telstra has reported a 67% jump year-over-year, with users have downloading a massive 133.4 terrabytes of data in June, and making 25.8 million calls.

The amount of data is staggering, with Telstra equating the number to being the same as ‘streaming 5 years of 4k video, over 100 years of TikTok streaming or 125 years of music!’ It’s not just downloading videos and streaming music, there’s tangible benefits for communitites, with Telstra sharing use cases including

Remote Indigenous communities, for example, use free Wi-Fi to stay connected to vital health and government services.

Communities affected by natural disasters who may have disrupted service at home gather around payphones with free Wi-Fi to let their loved ones know they’re OK or to help them rebuild and reconnect.

People in vulnerable circumstances, such as those experiencing homelessness or fleeing domestic violence, can use our free Wi-Fi services to access safety and support services.

The ability to make free calls from Telstra payphones has also been a boon, with 301,000 of the calls made to lifesaving services including ‘000’, Lifeline and 1800Respect.

It’s safe to say that Telstra’s payphones have become essential to some customers, and Telstra is set to make them even better with improvements planned to 1,000 payphones around the country. Telstra says that the ‘1,000 upgraded payphones will allow anyone to not only make free calls but also charge their devices with built-in USB charging facilities and stay active for longer thanks to better power backups.’

To check where the nearest payphone is to you, you can head to the Telstra payphone locator tool here.

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When HMD announced their latest smartphone was uniquely repairable – moreso than any we’d seen before it – we thought to ourselves “we’ll see about that”.

Turns out, it’s remarkable – just a few screws and you’re pulling apart this phone like nothing in the modern era.

Yes, back in the day you’d easily crack the back of a phone off and pull the battery out.  We all remember that.  But in the days of perfect edges, stunning design and edge to edge screens that’s a thing of the past.

Or is it?  Under European Union legislation all consumer electronics must be user-repairable as we head into 2027 – still a few years off, but these things take time to develop.

HMD appears to be wearing it’s R&D department on it’s sleeve putting things out into market that push the boundaries – so we grabbed an iFixIt repair kit and took to the HMD Skyline.

Using the guide published on the iFixIt website (which rates the repairability of the Skyline at 9/10!), we twisted that unique bottom screw which simply pops the back off the phone.

You peal it back slowly, and gently, this process is not one to be rushed.

Here, depending on which part you’ve broken or need to replace you can get to things like the battery, or the charging port too.

I wanted to go the whole way, remove a few things, back cover, battery and screen.

It was a breeze, and I mean that – so easy.

A whole bunch of screws were needed to be undone on the inside, but seemingly once done, we were off to the races.

With the screen off, it was a reverse engineering process to just put it all back together.

HMD will sell the replacement parts and repair kits directly from iFixIt, where the guides are simple and easy to follow.

Is this a selling feature of a phone?  Probably not up against Apple and Samsung.  But, it’s the future of smartphone design, so it’s fascinating to see!

At $899 this is a great option for your high school child’s next phone – after all, if they break the screen, they can fix it themselves!

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OPPO Australia has today announced their latest entry-level smartphone, the OPPO A80, priced at just RRP AUD$360.

The OPPO A80 uses various OPPO’s AI technology including a system-level AI model called AI LinkBoost.  This ensures that you will have a stable connection in any location.

The A80 also includes an AI feature called AI Eraser, similar to Google’s Magic Eraser where you can identify and remove unwanted people or objects from photos and create a “flawless shot.”

“We are excited to bring this innovative AI technology to Australian users through our new A80 handset, making advanced technology accessible,” said Michael Tran, Managing Director of OPPO Australia.

The OPPO A80 is designed to be tough with a reinforced internal structure and Panda Glass for the screen cover.  OPPO has also developed the “Anti-Drop Shield Case,” to give your phone even more protection — sold separately.

It is just 7.68mm thick and has a stylish design with a glossy middle frame and an angular rectangular camera on the back.  The A80 is available in a Moonlight Purple and a Starry Black with a stunning finish.

The large 6.67-inch display has a refresh rate of up to 120Hz offering fast, smooth gaming and movie consumption made even better by the Ultra Bright Display with a typical brightness of 850 nits.

The OPPO A80 includes support for OPPO’s 45W SUPERVOOC fast charging with the  5,100mAh battery design to last over a day.

The rear camera is a 50MP AI dual camera setup promising to offer decent photography at an entry-level price.

The OPPO A80 is available now in Starry Black and Moonlight Purple for $369 at JB Hi-Fi, Officeworks, Big W, Harvey Norman, The Good Guys and the OPPO Australia Online Store.

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HMD are introducing their latest flip phone today, with the aim of getting the Barbie fan in your life to unwind, unplug and look good while doing it.

As you’d expect, the HMD Barbie Phone is bright pink and includes a mirror on the front and includes replaceable pink covers which feature a ‘brightly coloured swirls of the 1992’s iconic Totally Hair Barbie doll and a vintage ‘shooting heart’ design’ and of course there’s a user replaceable battery that’s pink as well.

HMD have gone all in on the Barbie theme, with wallpaper, custom icons and ringtones, as well as a voice note saying ‘Hi Barbie’ when you turn on the phone, and you also get a misssed call notification from Ken – and you can add his number to contacts (I’d totally call him). There’s also easter eggs built-in including in the dialler where you can punch in BARBIE (#227243#) to get a surprise.

There’s even customisations on the 0.3MP camera which can capture Y2K style images – a nod to the recent trend in GenZ for capturing shots with vintage cameras.

There’s a focus on a digital detox with the Barbie phone too, the lack of smartphone apps making it easier to focus on life and the HMD Barbie Phone also includes ‘Digital balance tips’ and Barbie Meditaition to help you unwind.

With the phone designed to help you, or your kids disconnecthere’s loads of customisations including a pastel coloured, beaded phone strap with Barbie themed charms attached including a mini pair of the chic 1959 sunglasses, Malibu roller skate, a palm tree and more. You’ll also get a set of stick-on crystals and retro Barbie stickers including flowers, flamingos and rainbows to help you customise the phone.

Global Chief Marketing Officer at Human Mobile Devices, Lars Silberbauer, said

“In our fast-paced digital world, it can often feel like the online buzz never stops. This phone encourages you to ditch your smartphone in times when you just want less browsing and more fun, all with the help of a true cultural icon, Barbie. Barbie is as popular as she’s ever been, and feature phones are continuing to go from strength to strength – we’re bringing two brilliant things together. We cannot wait for people to get their hands on the device and take a holiday from their smartphone”.

The HMD Barbie Phone will sell for $199 when it launches on September 5th in JB HiFi, Harvey Norman, Big W, Officeworks, The Good Guys, and online only at Amazon.

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We’re just two weeks away from the announcement of the iPhone 16 it seems, after Apple sent invites to an event in September event titled “It’s Glowtime”.

The “Glowtime” reference indicates a strong push for Apple Intelligence which sees Siri get a whole new look in iOS 18 for the most recent iPhones where the assistant “glows” around the edges instead of just that little shining animation at the bottom of the screen.

Leaks and dummy iPhones show a new shutter button on all four iPhone 16 models which will make photography as much of a highlight of the iPhone as we’ve ever seen.

While from a colour perspective the base iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will come in new colours like Green, Blue and Pink.

Pro models are rumoured to have a Brown or “Bronze” colour skew also which has been polarising since the rumours first began.

Apple’s “September Event” takes place at 3am on September 10 Sydney time, 1am Perth time.

We’ll have full coverage here at TechGuide.com.au

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The anxiety you feel when your phone drops accidentally is palpable, and many of us have experienced the dismay of finding your screen smashed when it happens. Vodafone is set to change that with the introduction of a $0 first screen replacement for those who sign up to Vodafone Device Care.

Priced at $14.99 per month, Vodafone Device Care will offer subscribers a $0 screen replacement for the first one, instead of the standard fee of $45. 

The announcement comes ahead of the iPhone 16 launch, with Vodaofone surveying their customers and finding almost 1 in 5 Australians (19.1%) are living with smashed screens, choosing to live with them rather than paying the rising cost of replacing it. 

Apple users finding it especially tough, with Vodafone finding that more than a third (35.2%) of the responders are spending up to $250, with almost 12 per cent saying they’ve forked out up to $500 to fix their smashed display.

The survey found that ‘more than half of Australians (54.9%) have shattered their phone screens up to five times in the past year’ – that’s an expensive habit. 

How exactly are Aussie’s smashing their display? According to the survey, the top ways are:

• Pocket Plummeter: 70% dropped their phone while taking it out of their pocket or bag
• Social Stumbler: 17% were texting or scrolling on social media when it slipped out of their hand
• Selfie Smasher: 13% were snapping a pic when their phone slipped out of their hands
• Screen Stomper: 6% had their phone screen stepped on or crushed
• Run Club Fumbler: 6% dropped their phone while going for a run
• Baby Bumbler: 5% had their kid drop and smash their phone
  

If you’ve got butter fingers, or just want some peace of mind, you can check out Vodafone Device Care for your phone, tablet or wearable over on the Vodafone website. 

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HMD have packed a heap into their latest smartphone which could tick more than enough boxes to impress likely buyers. A great camera.  Repairability.  Digital Detox.

Those three things would have to be at the core of the HMD Skyline and we’ve been using it for a bit – it’s certainly impressive.  A full review to come next week!

Aussie boss of HMD Brenden Folitarik says “The HMD Skyline empowers the humans behind the phone, with an impressive triple camera to capture memories, a unique digital detox mode to encourage people to live in the moment and fix-it-yourself repairability that has never been easier. It’s all about creating a fashionable way to have a healthy relationship with your smartphone.”

While the HMD Skyline goes on sale next week – launching in a software update on the device in September will be a key feature – Digital Detox.  This will allow users to set their phone into a mode which prevents you using the device for more than just the basics, a real barrier to your minds decision not to take a break.  It sounds simple, and other phones have similar concepts, it does seem HMD has gone a few steps further – we’ll wait and see how it plays out.

From a smartphone showdown perspective, there’s not much lacking here – particularly from the cameras.

Now we can tell from all the supplied photography HMD is targeting a younger female audience.  This is backed by the solid 50MP selfie camera with new gesture control shutter.  So a few hand gestures are all you need to trigger that photo, a nice lesson learned from a rarely used feature of Samsung smartphones if we’re honest.

The main cameras too are super impressive, a hybid 108 MP camera with 4x zoom, ultra wide and stabilisation means great shots in all environments.

An impressive battery should last up to 48 hours and for the first time, we have an Android device supporting the new wireless charging standard with Magnetic attachment – Qi2! Something for which we already have accessories to buy!

Most critical to the HMD Skyline and the overall HMD philosophy is the repairability of the HMD Skyline.

Designed to not just meet the 2027 European Union Legislation for repairability of consumer electronics, this is a demonstration of just how possible that is without a strong deviation from the current Smartphone form factor.

A single screw in the base of the device is all you need to really “unlock” the frame and then release the screen underneath its just another series of coloured screws to then release the battery. You can even replace the charging port or the back cover.  All by yourself with a kit and instructions from iFixIt.

The HMD Skyline has a cracking great price of $899 and is available from August 28 at JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Officeworks (online only), Amazon (online only) and Big W (online only).

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Both Telstra and Optus have united today to announce they are extending the deadline for the switchoff of their 3G networks until October 28.

The delay means a final concerted push can be made to message customers and educate the public on this change.

A single date helps with that messaging, so expect a big push in marketing over the month ahead.

CEO of Telstra Vicki Brady says“We have been communicating to customers about the need to prepare and make the move for almost five years. This has included multiple letters, bill messages, SMS, public awareness campaigns, advertising – even door knocking and sending free phones to people in vulnerable circumstances, and our support for customers won’t end the day the network closes,”

Michael Venter, Optus’ interim CEO says “Optus has pulled out all the stops to guide a small number of our customers impacted by the 3G switch off through the process of updating their device – and I am pleased to say the majority of them are now on compatible devices.”

“Adding to our extensive direct communications and marketing efforts to date, we are joining with Telstra to launch a final public awareness campaign to really drive home the safety message and get the final groups of customers to act.”

There are still concerns around items like IoT devices, Medical alarms and still basic smartphones which won’t work fully on the 4G network.

This includes phones that today show the 4G symbol, but when needed after the 3G switch off – will not be able to call Triple-Zero.

The message from Telstra and Optus is clear – If you’re still unsure or need further information, please contact your carrier or visit us in store.

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The annual Made By Google event arrived earlier than usual with Google announcing their latest Pixel 9 series of phones overnight.

The Google Pixel 9 series includes four devices, the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold.  All devices are set to launch in Australia in the coming weeks.   

Pixel 9

This year Google has opted for two Pixel 9 Pro devices, with only the screen size being different.  They have matching specs all the way down the line (aside from screen and battery size) and most importantly with the camera specs are identical.

The Pixel 9 Pro is the XL specs inside the body of the Pixel 9.  Both the Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel 9 have a 6.3-inch display although the Pro version is a 1280 x 2856 display compared to a 1080 x 2424 display in the 9.  The size and weight of the two devices though is essentially the same.

The Pixel 9 phones are powered by the new fourth generation Tensor G4 processor offering more power and the ability to do more on the go.  You’ll notice this additional power with faster web browsing and faster app loading speeds (up to 17 percent faster than the previous generation Tensor G3). 

As expected, the Pixel 9 series has a large focus on AI and Gemini with the Tensor G4 improving the AI capabilities and Gemini Nano is now able to offer Multi-Modality on a mobile device for the first time.  This means you can add a variety of inputs to Gemini making it a lot more useful.

Google will be including a year of Google One AI Premium with the Pixel 9 Pro (and Pixel 9 Pro XL), giving you access to Gemini Advanced, as well as 2TB of cloud storage – normally priced at $12.49 per month. 

These new inputs into Gemini thanks to the more capable and powerful Tensor G4 allows for additional features such as Pixel Screenshots and Pixel Studio.

Pixel Screenshots is a new feature that uses Gemini to analyse any screenshots you may have taken and find objects such as receipts, codes and more.

Pixel Studio is Google’s new generative AI image creation tool which uses Google’s Imagen3 AI in the cloud to do the grunt work to create the image and then their Fusion model on-device for quick edits. 

All Pixel 9 phones see an increase in memory (RAM) this year with the Pixel 9 now at 12GB (from 8GB in the Pixel 8) and the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL jumping to 16GB.  Onboard storage starts at 128GB on the Pixel 9 series, with options for up to 256GB on Pixel 9, or up to 512GB on Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Google has also managed to eke out more battery life from the Pixel 9 phones too with Google listing over 24 hours of battery life and if you switch to their extreme battery saver mode that can be extended to nearly 100 hours.  There is also now support for 45W fast charging offering up to 55% charge in 30 minutes on the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, and up to 70% charge in 30 minutes on the Pixel 9 Pro XL.  As is the case these days, the charger is sold separately.

Google’s phones have always had great cameras and this year they are improved even more with new camera features.  Everyone’s favourite features are back including Night Sight including Night Sight Video, Astrophotography Mode, Top Shot and more, with two new features, Add Me and Auto Frame for Magic Editor.

Add Me is designed to allow the photographer to be inserted into an image after it has been taken by them being taken in an image immediately after with someone else removed (and taking the photo this time).  AR swap is then used with Pixel merging the two photos.

Auto Frame will pop up in Magic Editor as an option, letting you completely reframe your shot (eg. increase your field of view), with generative AI filling in the gaps to complete your shot.

The Google Pixel 9 series will launch with Android 14, with Android 15 right around the corner and expected to arrive within a few months.  Updates won’t be a problem though, with the phones getting seven years of OS and security updates, as well as new and upgraded features every month with Pixel Drops.

Availability

The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are available to pre-order from today and will be on sale starting August 22. They will be available through the Google Store online, as well as JB Hi-Fi, Telstra, Optus, Harvey Norman, Officeworks and Vodafone.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold

Google has decided to bring the second generation foldable to our shores this year.  The new Pixel 9 Pro Fold is their premium option, starting at $2,699 and will be available from September 2.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold obviously is a dual-screen phone, with the outer display a 6.3-inch display (the same as the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro) and the inner display an 8-inch Super Actua Flex display. The new hinge design from Google uses aerospace aluminium making it lightweight and results in a crease that is smaller than the other big name foldable on the Australian market.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is also powered by Google’s Tensor G4 and arrives with 16GB of RAM and starts at 256GB of onboard storage.

All AI features coming to the Pixel 9 series will also be landing on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold including Pixel Screenshot, letting you recall information like events just by asking Gemini.

The rear camera on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a triple rear camera setup which includes a 48MP wide sensor, a 10.5MP ultrawide sensor with 127° field of view that can also be used as a macro camera and a 10.8MP telephoto sensor offering up to 5x optical zoom, or 20x digital using Super Res Zoom.  Both the wide and telephoto sensors get optical and electronic image stabilisation.

There are more cameras too with a 10MP sensor and 87 degree ultrawide field of view embedded on the inner AND the outer display.  All camera features on the Pixel 9 phones will also be arriving on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

There is also a great new feature aimed to help you take photos of young kids on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold called Made You Look.  This feature plays fun animations on the outer display while the phone is open and you are using the main triple rear camera to take the photo.  The animation is designed to capture the attention of the littlies – something that everyone knows is incredibly difficult.

Using the Fold while open you can take great quality selfies using the rear camera and the front display to frame it correctly.  This front display also helps with group shots letting everyone see what’s happening on the outer display so they’re all in frame.

Google is also launching the Pixel 9 Pro Fold with Android 14,  with Android 15 available soon after launch. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold will also see seven years of OS and security updates, as well as new and upgraded features every month with Pixel Drops.

Availability

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold starts at $2,699 (RRP) and will be on sale from September 2. You’ll be able to grab one from the Google Store online, as well as through JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Officeworks, as well as through Telstra, Optus and Vodafone.

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Apple is renowned for it’s secrecy though in recent years the predictability of their products has become far greater, even the Apple Vision Pro was broadly leaked ahead of it’s announcement last year.  iPhone launches are speculated on more than Interest Rate decisions it seems, and the upcoming iPhone 16 release is no different.

Expected in early September, the iPhone 16 will be Apple’s 2024 model lineup with the brand likely to stick to the model lineup of recent years with an iPhone 16, 16 Plus as well as the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models.

Of course the power and performance of the iPhone won’t be known until the day it’s revealed, however thanks to regular leaks from factories in China we normally learn a fair bit about the physical iPhone ahead of its launch.

Earlier this year I revealed at EFTM some machine cut metal “dummy” models of the iPhone 16 which showed a new side button – likely for the camera shutter.

Today, I can reveal the likley colours the base and plus model iPhone 16 will come in.

The colours are more vibrant than in recent years with a very bold Blue, a washed out Pink and a blueish Green.  What’s notable is the frame of the iPhone also carries that same colour and it’s as vibrant as the back of the phone.

We don’t know if these colours are real until Apple announce them, but we’re pretty confident these will be the iPhone 16 colours.

Expect the Pro models to stay relatively subtle with the Natural, White, Black and perhaps one other colour.

If history repeats, the iPhone 16 will be announced in early September.

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Norton, a leading consumer cyber safety brand of Gen, has unveiled Norton Ultra VPN – a powerful re-imagining of its virtual private network to ensure privacy and security whenever people are online.

This new all-in-one VPN combines speed and reliability with next level protection against the latest cyber threats.

All Norton VPN’s now include worldwide content access, service compatibility upgrades and other protocols to provide an improved online experience.

Also updated is its “no log” policy which means the VPN provider does not collect or log anything transmitted through the network so will have no idea about what you browse or what you download and search for.

“Today, people need more from their VPN. They need help protecting themselves and their families from an ever-increasing spectrum of modern threats,” said Leena Elias, Chief Product Officer at Gen.

“We reimagined our lineup with this in mind, innovating with our award-winning technology to create tailored solutions that provide the most comprehensive online protection, helping people everywhere to regain control of their Cyber Safety with the perfect VPN for their lifestyle.”

There are now three Norton VPN plans which include Norton Secure VPN for individuals who want fast access to an easy-to-use and reliable service, VPN for Individuals and Couples looking for additional protection and Norton Ultra VPN Plus for families to protect their entire household with an all-in-one solution.

Norton Ultra VPN provides enhanced privacy, security and identity features, including:

Privacy 

– VPN: A fast, secure and reliable private internet connection to access your favorite content at home and on the go.

– Privacy Monitor (US and Canada): Included with Norton Ultra VPN Plus, Privacy Monitor scans people-finder websites for exposed personal information every 90 days and helps you opt-out of these websites for improved online privacy.

Security

– Malware and Scam Protection: Blocks dangerous websites and helps keep malware, ransomware, phishing and other scams at bay with real-time protection.

– Parental Control: Pinpoints the location of Android or iOS devices, sets boundaries for physical locations and blocks harmful or inappropriate websites to help children explore the internet safely.

– Password Manager: Create and manage passwords in one secure place. Includes an encrypted vault, detects duplicate passwords and suggests ways to improve password security.

Identity 

– Dark Web Monitoring – notifies you if your personal information – such as email addresses, phone numbers or credit card numbers – have been exposed and found on the dark web, so that you can secure your accounts and take the necessary steps to protect your identity.

Norton Ultra VPN is available today and works with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS platforms with protection for up to ten devices in the highest tier. For more information visit https://au.norton.com/products/norton-vpn

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With communication being essential to every part of life in today’s hyper-connected society, the most desirable traits are connectivity and ease of use. New forms of connection are springing up at an unprecedented rate to meet the needs of an increasingly mobile population that expects to be in constant communication.

One new way that travellers can keep in touch while on the move is via embedded SIMs or eSIMs. Although SIM cards are still the most common way to access cellular data, eSIMs provide several advantages that make them a more appealing alternative.

eSIMs are changing the way we stay connected while traveling and here is why using an eSIM when traveling across the globe is important.

International Accessibility

Having an eSIM can be helpful for those who are often on the go, whether it’s for business or pleasure. Any time you go to a new country, you can simply have a cellular data eSIM configured for use. This eliminates the need to acquire a local SIM card, which results in a considerable reduction in the amount of money spent on communication. For example, an esims.io plan allows you to remain connected in more than 228 countries.

Moreover, with a programmable eSIM, you can get several virtual number applications that can be used globally, further saving you money on calls and texts.

Flexibility in Use

Flexibility is one of the key features that differentiates a physical SIM and an eSIM. With an eSIM, customers can quickly and easily swap carriers or carry around many plans. An eSIM allows you to access cellular data without the need for costly and specialised equipment. After all, most phones being made nowadays are compatible with eSIMs. For companies looking to establish an internal communication platform, this is an advantageous feature.

Cost Savings

With eSIM technology, physical SIM cards are not needed, and roaming expenses are reduced, making it cheaper to make calls and surf the internet while travelling internationally. Customers can choose and buy data packages in advance using eSIM plans, allowing them to access the internet at no extra cost.

This simple method eliminates the need to purchase individual SIM cards for each country visited and the possibility of incurring unexpected roaming costs. Therefore, eSIM technology provides an affordable option for international travellers who want to manage their connection costs effectively. This strategy offers a professional, well-structured, and transparent way to save expenses without sacrificing connection quality, making it ideal for anyone who wants to manage their trip budget well.

Security and Encryption

eSIMs have superior digital and physical security than traditional SIM cards. Digitally, data sent using an eSIM is more secure since it is encrypted and executed remotely. eSIMs also eliminate the risk of SIM switching since they cannot be physically exchanged.

Contrary to traditional SIM cards, eSIMs cannot be physically destroyed or misplaced. As long as your phone doesn’t get broken, there’s less chance of damaging your cards and losing signal strength. Your data is therefore less likely to be compromised or become inaccessible.

Final Thoughts

Thanks to the development of eSIM technology, maintaining a connection while on the go is easier than ever. More and more people are switching to eSIMs since they are easy to use, flexible, environmentally friendly, and have better security features. As time goes on and technology improves, we will likely see eSIMs replace all earlier forms of international communication. If you’re planning a trip or require a SIM card, consider switching to an eSIM to take advantage of all its benefits.

The post Travelling: The Importance of Getting eSIMs to Facilitate the Journey! appeared first on Tech Guide.

What is the right age to give a child their first smartphone? There is no right or wrong answer but new research from smartphone manufacturer HMD shows not every parent gets it right.

HMD (Human Mobile Devices) has revealed results of a survey of more than 10,000 parents from around the world and it found 11 was the average age when a child received their first smartphone.

But the survey found that more than half said they regretted their decision to expose their child to a smartphone at such a young age.

A third responded saying they had this regret because it had negative effects on their child and, in some cases, changed their personality.

This plays into concerns about the impact of social media apps which is part of the smartphone experience.

And 70 per cent of parents say they now have less quality time with their child after giving them a smartphone while 55 per cent said the phone was also the centre of arguments.

Other findings included 77 per cent of Australian parents think their child is in danger using social media because it puts too much pressure on them and is not ideal for their mental health.

The research also showed 80 per cent of Australian parents want schools to get involved and educate their child on the dangers of social media. This comes at a time where schools are choosing to ban phones.

And 80 per cent of Aussie parents are also concerned a smartphone would expose their child to online stranger danger with more than half admitting they are not aware of what their child gets up to with their smartphone.

A third of parents have even admitted to crying over their child’s phone obsession.

More than 60 per cent of parents say their child sleep has been impacted by smartphone use and it also has reduced the amount of time they spend playing outside.

But more than half of parents admit a smartphone can have a positive effect on their child and help them in education as well as allowing them to stay in touch with friends.

“It’s clear that Australian parents are struggling to find the balance between giving their children the benefit and freedom of connectivity while also teaching them about the responsible use of technology,” says Brenden Folitarik, GM Australia and Oceania, HMD.

“This research is the first of an ongoing commitment from HMD to stay close to our consumers and be part of the solution.”

HMD has been active in reducing the amount of time customers can spend on devices by releasing more dumb phones with less features which are aimed at those users who want to reduce their screen time and social media use.

Two thirds of Australian parents are calling for a child-friendly phone that would allow them to manage usage with reduced access to social media and other apps that may put their child in danger.

“We’re delighted that HMD is committed to addressing the glaring gap in the market for child-friendly phones through this project,” says Joe Ryrie Co-founder of Smartphone Free Childhood.”

“Their research into children and smartphones is yet more evidence of the impossible position that parents find themselves in today.

“We either give our children access to a device they might not be ready for or choose not to and risk alienating them from their peers.

“It’s an issue that the 100,000+ parents who’ve joined our community since February are battling with on a daily basis, and we know that solving it requires a collaborative effort between parents, children, government and tech companies.
“Parents in our community are crying out for a phone which is desirable to children but isn’t designed to steal their attention.

“So we’re very excited about collaborating with HMD to help define what a modern child-friendly phone should be.”

The post HMD research shows parents’ regret and distress over their child’s smartphone use appeared first on Tech Guide.

Uniden has updated its entire App Cam Solo X wirefree range which provide a simple security solution to keep an eye of your home inside and out.

The line-up includes solar-powered easy-to-install 2K cameras which can be scaled to suit any size property along with the video doorbell so you can answer your door from anywhere.

Each new device has been redesigned with a sleek and fresh new look and has been competitively priced to suit anyone’s budget.

The range includes the App Cam Solo X2K, App Cam Solo X2K Bullet Kit, App Cam Solo X2K Wirefree Video Doorbell, App Cam Solo X2K PT Kit, App Cam Solo X2K 4K Kit and the Uniden App Cam X25T tracking camera.

All the new products are accessible from the MyUniden+ app and include free 7-day rolling cloud coverage with the ability for local backups on an SD card for the life of the product.

Customers can monitor their home while they are at work or on holidays and receive notifications when it detects movement around your property.

“This new range of wire-free security cameras provides an innovative and functional way for people to monitor their homes, capturing every detail and storing footage for peace of mind and deterring a crime before it happens,” says Brad Hales, National Marketing Communications Manager for Uniden.

“We’ve taken all kinds of consumers into consideration when developing this range, knowing that people seek out trusted brands with a local presence, and most importantly create products that are reliable with no hidden fees after the product purchase.”

UNIDEN APP CAM SOLO X2K – $149.95, $289.95 (TWIN PACK), $569.95 (QUAD PACK)

The Uniden App Cam Solo X2K can be used to build a system to cover your entire home with each camera including an integrated spotlight, ThermoSense technology for heat and movement detection which reduces multiple nuisance notifications along with two-way audio, a 120-degree wide viewing angle and a siren alert trigger.

The camera can also be paired with the Uniden solar panel accessory to keep the cameras charged.

APP CAM SOLO X2K BULLET KIT (INCLUDES SOLAR PANEL) – $199.95

The Uniden App Cam Solo X2K Bullet kit is a spotlight and camera which includes colour night vision so you can get clear views and excellent clarity day and night.

Also included is a solar panel and mount so it can be easily installed in an ideal position and ensure continuous charge.

The camera which provides sharp footage which can clearly show faces, number plates and other details even after the sun goes down.

APP CAM SOLO X2K WIREFREE VIDEO DOORBELL – $159.95

The latest addition to the Uniden portfolio of security cameras is the new App Cam Solo X2K wirefree video doorbell which allows you to see who is at the door thanks to a 135-degree viewing angle and 2K resolution which includes colour night vision.

It has two-way audio so you can easily communicate with whoever is at your door and see when kids are coming home.

Included in the package are wireless chime alerts so people inside your household can also hear the doorbell without solely relying on notifications via the app.

APP CAM SOLO X2K PT KIT (INCLUDES SOLAR PANEL) – $249

This camera has a pan and tilt function which allows you to have a 355-degree view of the area so your security has no blind spots.

It also includes a solar panel and can be controlled remotely using the MyUniden+ App to scan your property.

The App Cam Solo X2K PT camera can also be paired with other Uniden cameras across the Solo X range.

APP CAM SOLO X2K 4G KIT (INCLUDES SOLAR PANEL) – $429.95

This is the only 4G cellular security camera in the Uniden range which means it can be located in remote areas where there is no wi-fi including building sites, caravans, holiday homes, sheds, farms and marinas.

The camera offers a 355° viewing angle including pan and tilt and allows users to view and control the camera remotely through the companion app.

UNIDEN APP CAM X25PT – $69.95

The Uniden App Cam X25PT Super HD motion tracking camera is ideal for indoor security and packs in essential features into a small easy-to-use device that can blend into your home’s décor.

It includes a motion detection camera with a 350-degree pan and 95-degree tilt and can track movement whether it’s your kids doing their homework or your pets roaming around the house.

The device also has clear two-way talk to help check in and connect with loved ones through the Uniden app.

Stay tuned to Tech Guide for a full review of the new Uniden security range.

The post Uniden launches its new affordable range of wireless security solutions for your home appeared first on Tech Guide.

Optus will give away 20,000 handsets to customers doing it tough and struggling to replace their device ahead of the 3G shut down at the end of September.

Optus has put several measures in place including providing a free mobile handset to eligible customers who may be going through financial issues, the elderly and others experiencing various difficulties.

More than 2.6 million messages – including emails, letters and SMS messages – have been sent out to impacted customers who may be without a mobile connection after the last 3G network is closed for good at the end of September.

Optus is also offering other options for customers looking to stay connected after the 3G closure with selected devices available for $1 a month on a 24 or 36 month contract.

Meanwhile postpaid customers will receive up to a $400 discount on any smartphone on an eligible plan.

This means, with so many impressive phones priced under $400, Optus customers could pay nothing for their device when purchased on a 24 or 36 month plan.

The smartphones on offer here include devices from Samsung, Oppo and Motorola.

 “There are no-cost handsets, special discounts, budget offers and more for customers impacted by the 3G switch off as we fast approach the Optus deadline,” says Optus Head of New Products, Harvey Wright.

“This is all about keeping customers connected, so please engage with us to upgrade your handset.

“We know that many impacted customers are actually using a 4G handset that reverts to 3G for calls, so it’s vital these customers understand the importance of upgrading their handsets when notified.

“We have already sent millions of messages directly to impacted customers, established support measures to understand if your handset needs to be upgraded, offered special deals and we also have trained professional staff only a phone call away and in our retail outlets ready to assist.”

Any Optus customer unsure if their phone will work after the 3G closure can text “3” to 3498 from the mobile handset in question to find out if they need to upgrade.

Customers can also visit an Optus store or call 1300 219 070 while prepaid customers can call 1300 720 225.

Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) has launched a ‘Check My Device’ tool in partnership with Optus to help Australians prepare for the 3G networks switch off here.

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