The vivo V20 Pro 5G has been announced back in September, but it’s only now that it reaches Indian soil. We had the chance to do a full review of the vanilla V20, and we really appreciated the slightly different approach vivo had with the phone. So now that we have the Pro version, we will take a quick look at what makes this one a “Pro”.
Design-wise, there isn’t much of a difference, especially if you look at the back. However, the front features a larger notch, which is a bit unexpected, given that notched handsets are pretty scarce these days. Other than that, the V20 Pro 5G is a typical mid-range device in the sub INR 30,000 category with a bright OLED display, 5G-capable Snapdragon 765G chipset.
vivo V20 Pro 5G specs at a glance:
Body: 158.8×74.2×7.4mm, 170g; Glass front and back, plastic frame.
Display: 6.44″ AMOLED, HDR10, 1080x2400px resolution, 20:9 aspect ratio, 409ppi.
Chipset: Qualcomm SM7250 Snapdragon 765G (7 nm): Octa-core (1×2.4 GHz Kryo 475 Prime & 1×2.2 GHz Kryo 475 Gold & 6×1.8 GHz Kryo 475 Silver); Adreno 620.
Memory: 128GB 8GB RAM.
OS/Software: Android 11, Funtouch 11.
Rear camera: Wide (main): 64 MP, f/1.9, 26mm, 1/1.72″, 0.8µm, PDAF; Ultra wide angle: 8 MP, f/2.2, 120˚, 16mm, 1/4.0″, 1.12µm; Depth: 2 MP, f/2.4.
Front camera: Wide (main): 44 MP, f/2.0; Ultra wide angle: 8 MP, f/2.3, 1/4.0″, 1.12µm.
Video capture: Rear camera: 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps, gyro-EIS; Front camera: 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS.
Battery: 4000mAh; Fast charging 33W.
Misc: Fingerprint reader (under display, optical), no 3.5mm jack, no NFC, no FM radio.A quick run through the specs raises the question about a proper feature disparity. The vanilla V20 and the Pro version seem to be identical, with the only difference being the chipset, the additional selfie camera and the microSD card support. The latter is scraped from the specs sheet on the Pro model, but, of course, it gives you a more powerful chipset. The rest of the specs are pretty much identical.
So even before doing this hands-on review, we have a pretty good idea of how the V20 Pro 5G would feel from day to day use. But until a full review comes around, join us in the next pages to see if the V20 Pro 5G is the right device for you.
Unboxing the vivo V20 Pro 5G
The retail box is nothing out of the ordinary, except that it contains a USB-C to 3.5mm dongle so that you can use the bundled 3.5mm headphones in the box. Weird that vivo didn’t add USB-C headphones, too.
You also get a transparent silicone case, and the 33W-compatible fast charger along with a USB-A to USB-C cable used not only for charging but for data transfers as well.
The ZTE Axon 20 5G, the world’s first phone with an under-display camera, is now available for open sale globally. Previously only sold with an invite, the Axon 20 5G can now be freely purchased in its single 8/128GB configuration and in two colors – Midnight Black and Sunrise Yellow, priced €449/£419/$449. The device is available through ZTE’s own site and ships in three days.
We’ve already had the chance to review the Axon 20 5G. It has a 6.92-inch AMOLED of 1080p resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. Tucked underneath is a 32MP f/2.0 selfie camera and a fingerprint scanner. The processor is a Snapdragon 765G, while the battery size is 4,220mAh.
ZTE Axon 20 5G in Midnight Black and Sunrise Yellow
Also now available for open sale are ZTE’s LiveBuds truly wireless earbuds. They retail for $39.90/€39.90/£36.9 and offer ENC (electronic noise reduction), Bluetooth 5.0, up to 20 hours of battery life (4 hours out of the buds themselves), tap controls and IPX4 for rain, splash and sweat protection.
The ZTE Axon 20 5G and ZTE LiveBuds are available in the US, Canada, the UK, as well as all of these countries – Austria, Italy, Belgium, Latvia, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Croatia, Luxembourg, Cyprus, Malta, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Denmark, Poland, Estonia, Portugal, Finland, Romania, France, Slovakia, Germany, Slovenia, Greece, Spain, Hungary, Sweden, Ireland, Korea，Ukraine，Thailand，Malay，Philippines，UAE，Saudi Arabia，South Africa, Kuwait, Israel and The Republic of South Africa.
Web browser: Google’s (un) secret browser predominance Hazardous concentration Web browser diversity, power bundling and Chromium project Advertising Monopoly Change without Risk Article in c’t 2 / 2021 read At the latest with the October update 2020 every Windows user should have a new browser. Edge is not simply an update of the unpopular old, so-called Legacy Edge, but is based on completely different technology. Instead of Microsoft’s own browser engine, the open source Chromium works with its blink engine inside.
Edge is thus in numerous company. A number of other browser manufacturers also use Chromium: Opera, Vivaldi, Brave and many more. Six of the browsers in the test are based on Chromium. They all benefit from a solid foundation and an ecosystem with thousands of extensions.
While Google’s Chrome is rather limited to the basic functions, other manufacturers are adding many useful functions to their browsers. Microsoft for example 2000 switched its browser development to Chromium, but seems to be expanding its new browser to push a lot. The group reports new functions in Edge in quick succession: a PDF viewer with editing function, for example, collections for web finds or a search sidebar.
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Best on-ear headphones Buying Guide: Welcome to What Hi-Fi?’s round-up of the best on-ear headphones you can buy in 2021.
The best on-ear headphones are a good middle ground between in-ears and over-ears, they don’t burrow in your ears like the former and tend to be more portable than the latter. As the name suggests, they sit on your ears rather than covering them completely, which is a look you might prefer or find more comfortable.
As with any headphones, when choosing the best on-ear headphones for you, there are a few things to keep in mind. What features do you want? Bluetooth? Active noise-cancelling? What style are you after? An open-backed pair will give superior sound, but they leak the music like nobody’s business. They’re strictly for at-home use only. Using them on the bus? A closed-backed pair will avoid annoying your fellow passengers.
You should also consider how portable they are. Most pairs fold up to fit in a pocket or small bag, and some are so light you could forget you have them on you. Check them out in a shop if you can. Finally, you’ll need to decide on a budget. Thankfully, our pick of the best on-ear headphones contains something for everyone…
(Image credit: AKG)
1. AKG Y400
The best on-ear headphones with wireless smarts
SPECIFICATIONS
Connector: 3.5mm (cable supplied) | Cable length: 1m | In-line remote and mic: Yes | OS support: iOS/Android | Bluetooth: Yes | Noise-cancelling: No | Battery life: 20 hours
Reasons to Buy
Expansive, detailed presentation
Impeccable timing
Classy build quality
The Y400s are a little smaller than the previous model (the splendid Y500s), with smaller drivers and they come with a cable complete with in-line controls and mic, for when you don’t want to run down the battery with a wireless connection.
They’re colourful, too, coming in shimmery pink, green, blue and goldish-yellow finishes.
There’s no noise cancelling, but we wouldn’t expect it at this price. There is Ambient Aware mode, however, which lets in outside noise like dogs barking and car engines. Handy if you want to avoid being bitten/run over. They automatically detect when you take them off and pause the music, too, saving you precious battery life.
The sound has much to like. It’s spacious and three-dimensional. There’s impeccable timing throughout and the headphones deliver bass weight and power in spades. It’s zealous to the point that some might prefer a slightly leaner listen, but in our eyes (and at this level) the Y400s get the balance just about right.
Read the full review: AKG Y400
2. Grado SR80e
The best on-ear headphones for sound quality, but they’re not for everyone.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style: Open-backed | Cable length: 2m | Wireless: No | Noise-cancelling: No | In-line remote and mic: No | Connector: 3.5mm | Weight: 231g
Reasons to Buy
Great detailing
Lively audio
Tight bass
Reasons to Avoid
Sound could be more mellow
This is one of the few pairs on on-ear headphones in this list that are open-backed, meaning sound leaks like water through a sieve. But the upside is a more open, spacious soundstage – indeed, at this price, the dynamics, detail and clarity are all but unmatched.
They sound fast and nimble, able to jump between genres with ease, and the bass is clean and punchy. Some may find them a little tiring to listen to for long periods at high volumes and the design won’t suit everyone, but you can’t argue with the overall sound quality.
Read the full review: Grado SR80e
3. AKG N60NC Wireless
The best value on-ear headphones with wireless and noise-cancelling
SPECIFICATIONS
Bluetooth: Yes | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Battery life: 30hr | Charging: Micro USB | Built-in mic and controls: Yes
Reasons to Buy
Clear, punchy sound
Musical; balanced
Smart design
One of the most compact and convenient pairs of noise-cancelling headphones we’ve ever tested, the AKG N60 NCs deliver a superb performance for the money. They’re a good-looking pair of on-ears with an excellent fit. Battery life is 15 hours with the noise-cancelling and Bluetooth engaged and this ramps up to 30 hours when the noise-cancelling is turned off.
Bass delivery is powerful yet transparent with crisp, detailed vocals, soaring highs and convincing dynamics. You’d be perfectly content to wear these all day and for the money, they’re extremely tough to beat.
Read the full review: AKG N60NC Wireless
4. Urbanista Seattle Wireless
Excellent value wireless headphones that sound great for the price.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style: Closed-backed | Cable length: 1.2m | Wireless: Yes | Noise-cancelling: No | In-line remote and mic: No | Connector: 3.5mm | Weight: 172g
Reasons to Buy
Engaging audio
Perform well wirelessly
Reasons to Avoid
Bass could be better
Lacks aptX
These wireless on-ears are some of the best value headphones under £100. They combine the bass boost of a street headphone with the kind of smoothness that should appeal to audiophiles.
They’re tuned for impact rather than neutrality, with plenty of low-end thump, but if that’s your thing they will do you proud. And it’s not all bass: the mids are unexpectedly smooth and the treble pleasingly sweet. A very appealing all-rounder, and not just because of the price tag.
Read the full review: Urbanista Seattle Wireless
5. Grado SR325e
The open-backed design might divide opinion, but sound quality is excellent.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style: Open-backed | Cable length: 1.7m | Wireless: No | Noise-cancelling: No | In-line remote and mic: No | Connector: 3.5mm | Weight: 358g
Reasons to Buy
Balanced tonally
Transparent across frequencies
Dynamic and expressive
Be warned: these are open-backed, which means they leak sound like anyone’s business. Which is great for home listening (as the sound is more open and spacious), but not so great for your daily commute. Unless you want everyone knowing your guilty pleasures include Kylie and Black Lace.
A sturdy solid build meets superb sound quality, with an expansive sound space really letting every instrument breathe. If you’re serious about sound quality and they fit your budget, what are you waiting for?
Read the full review: Grado SR325e
6. Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 On-ear
Not a perfect pair of headphones, but still an enjoyable and effortless listen.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style: Closed-backed | Cable length: 1.4m | Wireless: No | Noise-cancelling: No | In-line remote and mic: Yes | Connector: 3.5mm | Weight: 210g
Reasons to Buy
Weighty bass
Great detailing
Very covetable
Reasons to Avoid
Timing could be improved
Slightly bass-heavy
Part of Sennheiser’s hugely successful Momentum range, these wired on-ear headphones don’t disappoint. The sound boasts body and warmth, plus texture and detail in spades. This all makes for an effortless, enjoyable listen.
Bass is weighty without being invasive but these particular Momentums don’t have quite enough clarity in the midrange for a five star recommendation. Having said that, they’re still hugely capable for the money.
Read the full review: Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 On-ear
7. AKG Y50BT
A winning pair of Bluetooth on-ear headphones.
SPECIFICATIONS
Style: Closed-backed | Cable length: 1.2m | Wireless: Yes | Noise-cancelling: No | In-line remote and mic: No | Connector: 3.5mm | Weight: 213g
Reasons to Buy
Clear sound with lots of detail
User-friendly
Comfy
Sound quality for these wireless on-ears is clear, with the kind of insight that makes it easy to tell the calibre of the talent on hand. There’s none of the hiss and whine you sometimes get with some wireless headphones. Detail levels are excellent, while their sense of rhythm is spot on. And when charged, they’ll give you 20 hours of play time – which is ample in anyone’s book.
Read the full review: AKG Y50BT
(Image credit: Eric Jones at Jones Studio Ltd)
8. Grado GW100
Open-backed and wireless? Sounds like an odd combination but it works
SPECIFICATIONS
Style: open-backed | Cable length: No | Wireless: Yes | Noise-cancelling: No | In-line remote and mic: No | Connector: No | Weight: 170g
Reasons to Buy
Fast and exciting sound
Great with rhythms
Excellent detail
Reasons to Avoid
Open-back design means plenty of sound leakage
No isolation from environment
The combination of wireless headphones and an open-backed design doesn’t sound too clever, and there are times when we’re out and about with Grado’s GW100s that they don’t make sense.
Yet, away from planes, trains and cars we’re impressed by the GW100’s excellent sound. They’re more articulate and insightful than just about any closed alternative. If you can cope with the open-back compromises there’s just so much to like here.
Read the full review: Grado GW100
(Image credit: Beyerdynamic)
9. Beyerdynamic Amiron
Premium priced headphones that have an exceptional sound to match
SPECIFICATIONS
Style: open-backed | Cable length: 3.0m | Wireless: No | Noise-cancelling: No | In-line remote and mic: No | Connector: 3.5mm | Weight: 340g
Reasons to Buy
Neutral and detail presentation
Expressive dynamics
Subtle bass
Comfort
Reasons to Avoid
If price isn’t an issue, nothing
Beyerdynamic’s Amirons aren’t the kind of headphones that grab your attention on a short listen, but give them a bit of time and their impressive transparency and resolution is sure to please.
They’re comfortable too, with nicely-judged earpads and sensible weight. You’ll need a good quality source and recordings to hear them at their best though, so don’t be tempted to skimp.
I would like to thank Thermaltake for supplying the review sample.
The Thermaltake Divider 300 TG ARGB is a mainstream chassis with a clean design that includes a few unique elements. Its focal points are certainly the three ARGB fans behind the front glass panel and the two-part steel and glass side panel. The Thermaltake Divider 300 series is available in either black or white, and interested customers may pick between the ARGB variant or simpler version sporting fewer fans without LEDs. We were given both color variants of the Divider 300 ARGB for review, so you will see a mix of colors used in this article.
Specifications
Thermaltake Divider 300 TG ARGB
Case Type:
Mid-Tower
Material:
Steel and tempered glass
Weight:
8.47 kg
Slots:
7
Drive Bays:
2x Internal 2.5/3.5″ 5x Internal 2.5″
Motherboard Form Factors:
ATX / Micro-ATX / ITX
Dimensions:
475 x 220 x 461 mm
Front Door/Cover:
N/A
Front Fans:
3x 120 or 2x 140 mm (3x 120 mm aRGB fan pre-installed)
Rear Fans:
1x 120 mm (1x 120 mm regular fan pre-installed)
Top Fans:
1x 120/140 mm (optional)
Bottom Fans:
N/A
Side Fans:
2x 120 mm (optional, instead of 3x 2.5″ drives)
I/O:
2x USB 3.0 1x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C 1x Headphone 1x Microphone
The social media service Parler is primarily popular with right-wing extremists and right-wing extremists. For this reason, the platform has been criticized for some time. Now activists have managed to gain access to the servers and to steal data from supposedly 70 TB. In addition, the group stored a large number of administrator accounts and then distributed the access data for them. At the moment it is still unclear exactly what data is involved. However, according to the activists, the booty will be used to help the law enforcement agencies. Since users have to register on the portal with the front and back of their driver’s license, it would be possible that under the 70 TB of data are copies of each individual user’s driving license.
Although most users had already deleted their posts about the storming of the Capitol in Washington DC, the administrators seem to have set up the platform in such a way that posts are only moved and not for the user are more visible. However, the protected area is still visible to the admins. Thus, according to their own statements, the activists also came into possession of exactly these posts.
Furthermore, Amazon has terminated the contract with Parla and the platform is not as of today more achievable. It is currently questionable whether the portal will go online again in the near future. So far there is no information about a new provider.
The main task of the activists should be the review of the data. It remains to be seen whether the first criminal proceedings will be initiated on the basis of the captured data. However, the around 70 TB ensure that the work of the investigating authorities is facilitated. Especially if there are ID documents under these.
Home/Channel/CES/CES 2021: LG set to announce its first 4K monitor with HDMI 2.1
Dominic Moass 13 mins ago CES, Featured Tech News, Monitors, Tech News
Ahead of CES 2021, LG has semi-unveiled its first 4K monitor with HDMI 2.1 support – the 27GP950. Product details are very sparse right now, but we can expect a full announcement from LG once this year’s Virtual CES is underway.
We said that LG has ‘semi-unveiled’ the 27GP950, and that is true as the screen is yet to be officially announced – but The FPS Review, via VideoCardz, spotted a mention of the monitor in a CES preview brochure on LG’s website.
The brochure doesn’t give much away, but we know the 27GP950 sports a Nano IPS display, with a rated 1ms G2G response time. It also has a 160Hz refresh rate, which is implied to be a simple overclock from the default 144Hz value. Lastly, there’s VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification, and of course the fact the monitor supports HDMI 2.1 with variable refresh rate (VRR).
VideoCardz speculates this new model is a refresh of the 27GN950-B but with an increased refresh rate thanks to the overclock. We can expect to hear more once this screen is officially unveiled during CES 2021.
KitGuru says: HDMI 2.1 is an important step in bringing variable refresh rate support (and 4K/120Hz) to a wider range of devices, so it’s good to see more and more companies getting onboard.
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CES starts virtually On Monday, the starting shot for this year’s consumer electronics fair CES was officially fired – due to the coronavirus Pandemic in virtual form. Many manufacturers have already started to announce their new products in advance. The Thinkreality A3 data glasses from Lenovo are supposed to increase productivity by displaying virtual monitors. HP brought several new releases of compact business notebooks to the CES. Sophisticated image optimization, new design and high contrast thanks to mini LEDs and OLEDs are promised by Sony for its upcoming Bravia TVs. Sony is joining LG and Samsung, who also presented high-contrast displays with mini LEDs at the CES. You can of course read details about all new products at heise online and at ct.de.
Apple makes manager bonuses dependent on social goals Our weekday news podcast delivers the most important news of the day compressed into 2 minutes. Anyone who uses voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant can also hear or see the news there. Simply activate the skill on Alexa or say to the Google Assistant: “Play heise top”.
Apple plans a change in its management bonus system. As can be seen from an official document to the US stock exchange NASDAQ, a so-called “modifier” is to be introduced from this year, which increases the voluntary additional payments of the group by 10 Percent can increase or decrease. This is made dependent on “ecological, social and goals of corporate management”, it says in the paper.
Once achieved COVID – 19 – Immunity could last for years Anyone who differs from recovered from a COVID 10 disease may be immune to the coronavirus eight months after infection. This is the result of a new study by the La Jolla Institute for Immunology in California, reports Technology Review. The interpretation of the results gives a positive signal: immunity against the virus may last for several years. In fact, the study also suggests that a small number of recovered people do not develop long-term immunity. But vaccinations should compensate for this problem by achieving herd immunity in the majority of the population.
Delta Air Lines plans free WLAN in the airplane The American airline Delta Air Lines will equip a large part of its fleet with satellite technology from Viasat. From summer 2021 offer over 300 Airplanes then high-speed WiFi, but at least initially as usual for a fee. Only news services should be free as before. Free WiFi is being planned.
Best neckband headphones Buying Guide: Welcome to What Hi-Fi?’s round-up of the best wireless neckband headphones you can buy in 2021.
If you’re aiming to get fit in the new year with runs around the park, workouts in the garden or just a HIIT in the front room, a pair of neckband headphones to upgrade your playlist could be just the boost you need.
When it comes to sports headphones, there are three types of wireless earbuds available: true wireless earbuds, wireless with a cable, and earbuds with a neckband.
These wireless neckband earphones feature a horseshoe-shaped collar that sits around your shoulders and houses a battery and Bluetooth transmitter. The designs may look a little unconventional, but you’ll quickly reap the rewards.
Neckband headphones combine convenience with impressive battery life (high-end models offer 10 hours playback) plus features such as noise cancellation. You won’t be plagued by connection issues, either, since most offer superb Bluetooth stability. And there’s the issue of keeping them in your ears – many would argue the neckband design is the best way to do it.
Most of the big-name audio brands have leapt on the neckband trend, so there’s now a range of options to suit everyone from commuters to fitness fanatics. Want to to cut the cord without sacrificing sound quality? Here’s our pick of the best neckband headphones.
(Image credit: Sennheiser)
1. Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear Wireless
The best neckband headphones, offering superior sound quality and a luxurious design
SPECIFICATIONS
Bluetooth: Yes | Noise-cancelling: No | Battery life: 10hr | Weight: 53g | Built-in mic and controls: Yes
Reasons to Buy
Open sound
Expressive vocals
Powerful bass
Reasons to Avoid
Bass maybe a little too powerful
This neckband headphone model is based on Sennheiser’s Award-winning Momentum in-ear headphones, so you’re guaranteed sensational sound quality. As well as impressive dynamics and superb vocal clarity, they offer features galore.
To add a touch of luxury to your listening experience, Sennheiser has trimmed the neckband in soft nappa leather. And when you get an incoming call, the neckband gently vibrates – a useful feature even when you’re not using listening to music. In a hurry? They fast-charge in one and half hours.
These Sennheisers are our pick as the best neckband headphones around thanks to the top-of-the-class style, sound and build quality.
Read the full review: Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear Wireless
(Image credit: Sony)
2. Sony WI-1000X
Noise-cancelling neckband with superb sonics
SPECIFICATIONS
Bluetooth: Yes | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Battery life: 10hr | Weight: 71g | Built-in mic and controls: Yes
Reasons to Buy
Punchy bass
Insightful midrange
Well balanced
Range of noise-cancelling modes
Reasons to Avoid
Neckband could be more flexible
The big draw here is the noise-cancelling functionality. Sony has gone to town and added an ‘Adaptive Sound Control’ mode that continuously tunes the sound profile to match your movement (sitting, walking, running and transport).
The result is superb sound that’s punchy and nuanced. It’s also worth noting that these neckbuds feature aptX HD Bluetooth, which provides the option to stream audio at 24bit/48kHz resolution.
Some of the buttons on the neckband have dual functionality (longer presses activate different functions), but unless the lack of dedicated buttons grinds your gears, you’ll be wowed by these hugely impressive earphones.
Read the full review: Sony WI-1000X
(Image credit: Bowers & Wilkins)
3. Bowers & Wilkins PI3
Brilliant wireless buds from B&W
SPECIFICATIONS
Connector: N/A | Cable length: N/A | In-line remote and mic: N/A | OS support: Android/iOS | Bluetooth: Yes | Noise-cancelling: No | Battery life: 8 hours
Reasons to Buy
Clean, detailed presentation
Solid, weighty and tight bass
Flexible design and fine build
Reasons to Avoid
Not IPX rated
Lack of eartip options
Bowers & Wilkins has successfully made a smooth move into the headphone market, building on its almost unrivalled reputation when it comes to making speakers. In-ears of this design, which makes us think of sport and the gym, haven’t necessarily been on the hit list however – fear not, B&W has knocked it out of the park with these neckband wireless in-ears too.
The PI3 earphones are a dual driver design, complete with a flexible neckband. We would prefer a few more ear tips to get the optimum fit, so it might be one to try before you buy. They deliver a decent battery life and though they aren’t technically waterproof, B&W claims they are “resistant to light rain, splash and sweat”.
Happily, they deliver a clear, controlled, punchy and well-balanced sound. From rock to pop to hip-hop, the B&W PI3 earphones deliver a confident, entertaining sound. Another fine option from B&W.
Read the full review: B&W P13
(Image credit: Bose)
4. Bose QuietControl 30
Refined, rhythmic and noise-cancelling
SPECIFICATIONS
Bluetooth: Yes | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Battery life: 10hr | Weight: 64g: | Built-in mic and controls: Yes
Reasons to Buy
Insightful sound
Impressive noise cancellation
Punchy bass
The QuietControl 30s are solidly-built and impress with their sonic ability, elegant design and best-in-class noise-cancelling. They never sound flat, and boast an impeccable sense of rhythm and timing.
Bose is known for its effective active noise-cancelling technology, which does a fine job of shutting out the world – without ruining the musicality of your favourite track.
While some people might find the collar a little weighty, the killer combination of premium noise-cancelling, superb battery life and outstanding audio quality adds up to a five-star review.
Read the full review: Bose QuietControl 30
(Image credit: Skullcandy)
5. Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds 2 Wireless
Lightweight neckband that offers bang for buck
SPECIFICATIONS
Bluetooth: Yes | Noise-cancelling: No | Battery life: 6-7hr | Weight: 30g: | Built-in mic and controls: Yes
Reasons to Buy
Full, fun sound
Great price
On a tight budget? Skullcandy’s cheap neckband headphones are the best pound-for pound performers. While the brand is best known as purveyors of bombastic bass, its Smokin’ Buds 2 offer surprisingly rich and accomplished playback.
The paired-back design features a simple three-button remote and looks more expensive than it feels. If you’re into fitness and don’t want the collar jangling around, you can remove the earphones from the flexible neckband.
As you’d expect, advanced features such as aptX Bluetooth and fast charging are off the menu. But factor in the eye-catching price and it’s hard not to be won over but these solid, reliable performers.
Read the full review: Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds 2 Wireless
(Image credit: Libratone)
6. Libratone TRACK+
Sporty buds with noise-cancellation
SPECIFICATIONS
Bluetooth: Yes | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Battery life: 8hr | Weight: 28g: | Built-in mic and controls: Yes
Reasons to Buy
Comfortable, secure and lightweight
Effective noise-cancellation
Splashproof
Reasons to Avoid
Lack some subtlety and attack
Libratone’s splashproof TRACK+ earbuds are aimed at sporty types and remain securely locked into your ears during intensive workouts. They’re light but powerful: with 8 hours playback you’re sorted for a marathon (or two).
Libratone’s noise-cancelling technology – dubbed CityMix II – offers four levels of noise cancellation, letting you choose how much of the world to let in. It’s pretty effective at blocking out everything from chugging lorries to office chatter, and can be tuned via the remote or Libratone’s app.
While not as crisp or insightful as the Sennheisers, the TRACK+s offer a deft balance of dynamics and clarity – without breaking a sweat. If you love running, these will go the distance.
Read the full review: Libratone TRACK+
(Image credit: V-Moda)
7. V-Moda Forza Metallo Wireless
Sophisticated and stylish – but lacking in oomph
SPECIFICATIONS
Bluetooth: Yes | Noise-cancelling: No | Battery life: 10hr | Weight: 22.5g: | Built-in mic and controls: Yes
Reasons to Buy
Excellent detail and clarity
Balanced bass
Good-looking and comfortable
Reasons to Avoid
Not the best wireless performance
Lack some midrange power and body
If style and craftsmanship float your boat, you’ll be instantly drawn to these sleek earbuds made from “aircraft grade” aluminium. Their compact, minimal design is highly impressive – as is the clarity and upper-frequency refinement.
Sound isolation is good and they come with a nice range of tips (plus ‘sport hooks’ to hold them securely in place). Fast charging means two hours playback from 15 minutes of charging.
We did experience a few Bluetooth drop outs, though, and the soundstage lacks a little raw power. There are better all-rounders, but if you’re looking for outstanding sonic detail and a swanky design, make a v-line for V-Moda.
Read the full review: V-Moda Forza Metallo Wireless
TCL will introduce its first Google TV models this year, the company has announced. The Hong Kong-based budget TV maker said at CES 2021 that it will roll out a series of TV sets toting the Google TV smart platform, starting in the US and expanding to other parts of the world later in the year.
As well as offering the Google TV interface – with all the apps and entertainment offerings that encompasses – TCL’s Google TVs will boast cutting-edge display technologies like Mini-LED, 8K and QLED.
Sony is the first big partner for Google TV this year but TCL appears to be not far behind with its choice of smart TV UI for 2021. Google TV was introduced with the most recent Chromecast streaming dongle at the end of 2021 has proved to be an excellent and intuitive option, helping the media streamer earn a perfect five stars in our review.
Google TV comes with over 6500 apps and supports more than 30 streaming services. It’s slick, highly usable and has one of the best recommendation engines we’ve ever tested.
There’s no word yet on pricing or availability of TCL’s Google TV sets. We’ll bring you more when it’s announced.
Jabra’s Elite 85T true wireless earbuds, which we called its “best earbuds yet” when we reviewed them last year, are getting four new color variants. Alongside the preexisting titanium / black color scheme, the earbuds will soon be available in gold / beige, copper / black, black, and gray.
Outside of the new colors, the new Jabra Elite 85T earbuds are functionally identical to what we reviewed last year. That means they should offer a comfortable fit paired with good noise cancellation and excellent controls. They’re also able to connect to two sources at once, which is handy if you get a phone call while you’re listening to music on a laptop.
That’s not to say we didn’t have our reservations about the earbuds, which you can read about in our full review. Otherwise, the new colors will be available starting today from Jabra’s website for $229 (£219.99 / €229).
NASA announced that it has extended the Juno and InSight missions (for Jupiter and Mars) given the scientifically relevant results obtained in recent months. It is also a way to limit spending while still collecting data.
by Mattia Speroni published 11 January 2021 , at 16: 20 in the Science and Technology channel NASA
La NASA announced that it has extended the duration of the missions Juno and InSight due to the scientific results obtained by the latter. Good news for enthusiasts and researchers who will have access to new data regarding Jupiter and Mars. The decision was made after an external commission assessed its scientific performance.
Lori Glaze (director of NASA’s planetary science division) stated “the Senior Review has validated that these two planetary science missions will likely continue to bring new discoveries and produce new questions about our solar system “.
Not the first time missions are extended. Furthermore, as specified by NASA , this will reduce the overall costs since it will not be necessary to develop new missions for objectives already reachable from existing ones.
NASA extends the Juno and InSight missions
Di InSight we wrote several times. Although not a mission with rover but “only” a lander, it is a series of useful tools to understand the structure of Mars beyond to meteorology. Unfortunately, not everything went as planned, and in particular the self-pounding mole is giving particular problems in achieving the set goals. Despite everything, however, the other tools are working regularly, collecting useful information also in view of possible missions over the years 2021.
Mission NASA Juno collected information precious on the Jovian system and its moons. This allowed us to have a better understanding of the Solar System, its structure, its evolution. In addition, the foundations have been laid for future dedicated missions that will allow for further details on promising scenarios such as Ganymede, Io and Europa.
The independent commission has stated that the two missions have “produced an exceptional science” recommending the extension of duration. The mission Juno , as reported on the website of the NASA , will be extended until September 2025 , or a failure of the probe itself (which could happen sooner).
The goals are to continue monitoring , its rings (less spectacular than those of Saturn, but still present). In addition there will be close observations with the main moons of the gas giant: Ganymede, Europa and Io.
As for the mission NASA InSight , its duration is now given for December 2022 (two years beyond the initial provision). The extended mission will aim at the collection of high quality and long-lasting seismic data. In addition, the weather station will continue to operate and an attempt will be made to operate the self-hammering mole in order to have more data available.
Bookmark management: use bookmarks with multiple browsers Web command centers Write start page with HTML direct matcher Read article in c’t 2 / 2021 The cryptic URL from the page in the company intranet with the deadlines; the address of this (what’s his name again?) blogger with the interesting political analysis; the collection discovered by chance with the great tips for hikes on your next vacation: addresses of websites that are really important or interesting beyond the day and which you can not find again so quickly with Google, are in the bookmarks.
But this wealth of information is also the greatest obstacle to trying out a new browser or using several browsers in parallel , because browsers from different manufacturers do not easily compare their bookmarks with one another. And who wants to laboriously maintain several bookmark directories side by side? There are various applications and services that make a bookmark trunk accessible to several browsers – so many that we can only present a selection of services that have proven themselves in the editorial office.
All browsers can by default synchronize your bookmarks with your peers. For example, you can synchronize your Chrome bookmarks on all systems on which you have installed Chrome. When comparing with other browsers, Chrome has to fit like any other browser. Then you need other resources.
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RESUME A sound character that produces minimal listening fatigue, a design that provides comfort, and ANC by as much 13 positions together provide a pleasant experience that you can enjoy for a long time. We just miss that little bit of musical emotion that would complete the picture.
PLUS POINTS Price Comfort Build Quality Service MINUSES Missing musical emotion ANC cannot be turned off completely Battery life
Today’s technological innovations are hard to keep up with, because we seem to be making leaps and bounds every day. VR, AR, Motion control, flexible screens and 20191114160511 degrees sound, these are just a few examples from the world of audio and video. The big and sometimes slightly less big tech giants behind it really can’t go fast enough. From the maker who has been helping you for years with text files in Word, spreadsheats in Excel and your most ambitious PowerPoint presentations, we have now received the Surface Headphones 2. And no, the -s in the end is not a typo.
Laptops, smartphones, tablets and all-in-ones, Microsoft has been at the forefront of innovation for decades. Electronics for the head should not be missing. That the manufacturer also adheres to the business user will come as no surprise. What we do see is that, just like with Apple, a brand-specific ecosystem is emerging. And that Microsoft also supplies both the hardware and the software. Surface Headphones 2: a job well done We received a test sample from France where we received no less than 40 days. That should be enough. The reception, unpacking and getting hold of it promised a good experience. Everything exudes solidity and reliability. The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 seems (seem?) To be made of aluminum, plastic and (artificial) leather. The band for the over the head stands out. It is different in design than, say, a Bose or B&W. There is a bend upwards above the left and right unit. But something else also stands out. On the outside of both units we also see a beautifully milled ring. It gets even better, because that ring can turn. At the bottom we find the button for switching the Microsoft Surface headphone 2 on and off. There is also the port for USB-C charging and a 3.5 mm connection.
Microsoft likes to use beautiful marketing terms. For example, the Surface 2 is equipped with ‘Omnisonic sound’ for an ‘immersive experience’. What is more practical is the operation. This can be done with touch, but also by turning. That Microsoft is indeed looking forward to the business user who wants to get started undisturbed, becomes clear with the whopping 13 modes of active noise cancellation. And not 1, but 2 microphones for clarity during conversations. Should we also report voice control? Nice for at home, but not in public.
Comfortable with the capital letter C Every headphone is different again. What we see with the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2, as with the DALI IO6 by the way, are the round shapes of the earpads. Some people prefer the oval shape, while others prefer the round shape. The ear cushions are extremely comfortable and almost vacuum themselves against the head. Wearing glasses with the MS Surface 2 is therefore no problem. The cushions still seal well. The weight when carrying is fine. It is not so light that the feeling of wearing completely disappears, but it is absolutely not disturbing. We have been able to listen to music for quite a while, but a good two hours is no problem anyway.
On the inside of the headband is a kind of rubber / plastic strap. It is sensitive to fat. Especially if you are bald that is something to take into account. A cloth over it and it is clean, but this is something you would like to know in advance. To listen and use the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2, we link the iPhone and the HP laptop. It is therefore possible to link two devices. When turning on the Surface, we are greeted by a neat lady voice, who tells us the remaining battery time.
Pinch of more music The music turns on and the eyebrows are raised; in surprise. This is not what we expected. The music sounds subdued and reserved. This period of acclimatization does not last very long. Between 5 and 7 seconds later, the eardrums are used to it again and we can start listening. For convenience, we pack a regular Top 40 or 50 add a list, and we ‘just’ start listening. This gives us a little idea of where the sound character lies. We now have quite a bit of comparison material â ???? the DALI IO6, B&W PX7 and the PX5 and the Nitro-X, for example. For the sake of completeness, we even have a Bose. This allows us to form a good picture of Microsoft’s strategy.
In terms of sound reproduction and musical experience, the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 comes across as reticent. As if he doesn’t give everything. The sound is reserved. In The Air Tonight â ???? Phil Collins, after building up all the tension, has the moment when emotion and feeling are released. And that moment is crucial to the musical emotion that is in the song. And that is exactly what is not well reflected. It doesn’t sound bad, not at all. The sound scores very well, but it just lacks that pinch of musical experience of, for example, the DALI or Bowers. The downside of the preserved character is that you can listen for hours without any form of listening fatigue. However, that is an important consideration that Microsoft has made. It also directly shows which audience Microsoft is targeting.
If we then use the ANC which is in 13 positions can be adjusted, start scanning by means of the rotating ring, then the puzzle pieces really stand out its place. The ANC is arguably the best in this price range. By combining this with a sound adjustment that results in hardly any listening fatigue, Microsoft focuses on long-term use. We also notice this in the comfort – the Surface 2 is great. Comfortable, not too heavy, and the build-up of heat is easily dissipated.
Final Verdict Microsoft has taken off the boxing glove and goes into battle with Bose. With the Surface Headphones 2, the computer giant focuses primarily on business and long-term users of wireless headphones with ANC. This strategy is confirmed by the sound character, comfort and variation in ANC â ???? although you can never completely turn off the latter. The build quality is better than that of the plastic Boses, and at this price it looks a bit like sprinkling sand in the eyes of this competitor. Depending on the use â € œbubbles for example consumes a little more energyâ €. we can get around the 16 hours ahead. That is slightly less than the competition, but much of that criticism is somewhat nuanced by the price. With a suggested retail price of 279 euro, Microsoft is clearly looking for a larger share of the market for wireless ANC headphones. For us, a pinch of musical emotion could really have been added.
Conclusion Microsoft is hungry for a bigger share of the ANC wireless headphones market. With the Surface Headphones 2, they clearly outshine the Bose. They target the business users. A sound character that produces hardly any listening fatigue, a design that offers comfort, and ANC with a whopping 13 modes together ensure a pleasant experience that you can enjoy for a long time. We just miss that little bit of musical emotion that would complete the picture.
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
â ?? ¬ 279 | www.microsoft.nl
Rating: 4/5
Fossil is making a smartwatch with LTE for the first time, the Gen 5 LTE. As you might guess from the relatively boring name, the watch is based on Fossil’s Gen 5 Wear OS platform. That means that it has many of the same features and likely performs in the same way as Fossil’s smartwatches have since late 2019, when we first reviewed the Gen 5 platform. It will retail for $349 and be available this spring in the US either in Fossil stores or at Verizon.
The key spec to pay attention to is the processor, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 3100. For the most part, it’s fast enough to handle Wear OS’ software, but smartwatches that use it still have a difficult time getting more than a day’s worth of battery life. It’s a disappointment that Fossil isn’t using the newer Snapdragon 4100 yet. Though to be fair it isn’t too common yet — it’s mainly available on the TicWatch Pro 3. To offset the battery issues that are sadly common to Wear OS watches, Fossil’s watches offer “four battery pre-sets” that turn on or off various functions depending on your needs.
The Gen 5 LTE has sensors for heart rate, GPS, elevation, and ambient light. It has a speaker too, which Fossils calls “swimproof.” It comes in either black or rose gold, but there’s only one size, a 45mm case. It uses an eSIM and is exclusive to Verizon, utilizing with the carrier’s Number Share system for calls and texts.
Android users looking for an LTE-enabled smartwatch don’t have many good options, so this new Gen 5 LTE might be the best thing going when it arrives. It’ll be worth waiting for a review to see whether the 3100 and the battery can handle LTE on top of everything else.
If you don’t need LTE, Fossil’s other brands have some other options that might interest you. There’s another iteration of the Michael Kors line of Wear OS watches, the Michael Kors Access Gen 5E. It is $250 and comes in two models, the Darci with three color ways and the MKGO with four colorways.
Last (and for me, the best) is that Fossil’s Skagen brand is launching a new hybrid smartwatch that uses Fossil’s more bare-bones software platform. The $195 Skagen Jorn Hybrid HR has physical hands that move over an e-paper screen. The watch will come in either 38mm or 42mm case sizes and feature several different color choices.
The watch should last about about two weeks on a charge yet still be able to do basic smartwatch functions. It can detect your heart rate, show notifications, and count steps. When I reviewed the Fossil version of the HR hybrid platform in 2019 I was less than impressed with the quality of the software, but some of it has been updated since then.
Overall, Fossil’s smartwatch lineup this spring is workmanlike. Nothing truly stands out, but the company has managed to get Wear OS watches to a place where they don’t flub the basics. Doing anything more interesting than that with the software really isn’t Fossil’s job, it’s Google’s. Google’s next step on the hardware front is finishing its acquisition of Fitbit. Its next step on Wear OS and smartwatch software in general? At this point it’s anybody’s guess.
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