Samsung Electronics has showcased its latest advancements in display technologies, including QLED, MICRO LED, OLED, and Lifestyle displays. This announcement marks the beginning of the AI screen era, introducing an innovative next-generation AI processor that will revolutionize smart display capabilities and enhance individual lifestyles.
SW Yong, President and Head of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering superior visual experiences in today’s hyperconnected era. The focus is creating displays that become the centrepiece of users’ homes, connecting all compatible devices to offer a flexible and diverse lifestyle.
The 2024 Neo QLED 8K is the pinnacle of Samsung’s TV technology. It boasts the powerful NQ8 AI Gen3 processor, doubling the AI performance of its predecessor. With 512 neural networks and advanced features like 8K AI Upscaling Pro, AI Motion Enhancer Pro, and Real Depth Enhancer Pro, the Neo QLED 8K ensures unparalleled picture quality and design enhancements.
In addition, the Infinity Air Design, with a mere 12.9mm depth, complements the exceptional picture quality, creating an immersive viewing experience. The audio quality matches the stunning visuals with features like 2024 Q-Symphony and Active Voice Amplifier Pro.
The 2024 Tizen OS brings a personalized content and service experience to the Neo QLED 8K lineup. Samsung TV Plus receives a UI upgrade for faster content discovery, connecting seamlessly with Samsung accounts to offer tailored content suggestions based on viewing history.
Samsung Daily+ is introduced as a hub for in-home activities, providing services from personal training to telehealth, video calls, and remote PC solutions. Features like Workout Tracker, TechnoGym, F45, FlexIt, Dr Tail, and Multi Control enhance the connected experience, making Samsung TVs the centre of smart living.
Samsung’s 2024 OLED TVs, including the S95D, S90D, and S85D, build on the success of previous models. The lifestyle lineup sees enhancements to The Frame, The Premiere 8K Projector, and The Freestyle 2nd Gen, offering bespoke solutions for every lifestyle.
Completing the home entertainment setup, the 2024 soundbar lineup, including Music Frame, HW-Q990D, and HW-S800D, offers immersive audio experiences powered by advanced AI algorithms.
When it comes to smartphone photography, no one can beat the magic of Google Pixel phones, and in terms of videography, iPhones are the undisputed rulers for a long time. However, there’s always a second-best in the list who is the most consistent amongst all, and Samsung is that brand in terms of photography and videography as well.
We are just days away from Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked 2024 event, where the South Korean brand will launch the Samsung Galaxy S24 Series smartphones and a few other products. But recently, to our surprise, Samsung revealed they are launching Galaxy AI to revolutionise the smartphone experience.
The Galaxy AI will be a game changer for Samsung as the arrival of AI will improve the camera algorithms, and looking at happenings and promotions, it’s surely going to join the new Galaxy family of smartphones. So, get ready to discover and explore a new era full of possibilities with the latest Galaxy innovations.
The upcoming flagship smartphones from the S24 Series and the newly unveiled Galaxy AI are designed to transform how you live, connect and create. The new Galaxy S series will offer an epic experience like never before. The unpacked event will be live-streamed on Samsung.com and Samsung’s YouTube channel beginning on Tuesday, 11:30 PM.
Recently, the Indian government’s cybersecurity watchdog, CERT-In, warned Samsung users of a security issue found on their smartphones. The warning, named Note CIVN-2023-0360, highlights critical security issues that affect phones using Android versions 11, 12, 13, and 14, including Samsung’s latest flagship model, the Galaxy S23, with the Android 14 update.
According to CERT-In, these vulnerabilities could allow attackers to bypass security rules, access sensitive data, execute arbitrary code, trigger a heap overflow, read sandbox data, bypass Knox Guard lock, and compromise the system. The vulnerabilities exist due to various flaws in Samsung’s software components, such as KnoxCustomManagerService, SmartManagerCN, facepreprocessing library, AR Emoji, Knox Guard, bootloader, HDCP in HAL, libIfaaca, libsavsac.so, softsimd, Smart Clip, and contacts.
CERT-In advises users of Samsung Galaxy phones to update their device’s operating system and firmware to its latest available updates, and Samsung has released a fix for these threats. Meanwhile, users are also advised to be cautious while downloading apps, clicking on links, and visiting unknown websites, as failure to do so could make Samsung models vulnerable to potential threats from hackers.
This warning from the Indian government’s cybersecurity watchdog, CERT-In, is a significant concern for Samsung, one of India’s leading smartphone brands. Samsung faces tough competition from Chinese rivals such as Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo and domestic players like Micromax and Lava. Samsung released its Galaxy S23 series in October 2023, expecting to increase its market share and revenue. However, because of these security issues, it may negatively impact sales and the brand’s reputation.
The South Korean tech giant Samsung has yet to make an official announcement about the highly anticipated Samsung Galaxy S24 series, but leaks and renders have set the tech community abuzz with excitement. Speculations point towards an imminent debut in January of the upcoming flagship trio – Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra.
It is rumoured that Samsung intends to maintain the pricing strategy of its predecessor, the Galaxy S23 series, which is a compelling development. The expected pricing for the base models stands at an attractive $799 for the Galaxy S24, $999 for the Galaxy S24+, and $1199 for the premium Galaxy S24 Ultra in the US market. This echoes the company’s commitment to affordability and consumer satisfaction.
Furthermore, whispers in the tech corridors suggest that Samsung’s strategic move to equip the Galaxy S24 Ultra with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and the Galaxy S24/S24 Plus with the Exynos 2400 chip in select markets is a critical element in preserving these competitive price points. With a sales target set at an ambitious 33 million units, Samsung aims to achieve a remarkable 10% increase over the Galaxy S23 series.
Adding another layer of intrigue, reports hint at a groundbreaking feature in the Galaxy S24 series – an emergency satellite texting capability. Leaked screenshots from a Galaxy phone showcase the functionality labelled as ‘Emergency texts via satellite.’ This feature empowers users to dispatch emergency texts utilizing satellite connectivity, ensuring communication in remote areas or during network unavailability.
While Apple pioneered satellite connectivity with the iPhone 14, Samsung’s foray into this realm is eagerly awaited. The Galaxy S24 series is shrouded in anticipation, with an expected unveiling on January 17, promising a blend of cutting-edge technology and innovative features that will undoubtedly set a new standard in the smartphone landscape.
Breaking away from the traditional timeline, Samsung has unveiled its cutting-edge Galaxy A15 duo and Galaxy A25 5G, defying expectations set for 2024. The Galaxy A15 comes in both 4G and 5G variants, distinguished mainly by their chipsets. Meanwhile, the Galaxy A25 takes the spotlight with enhanced cameras and Samsung’s proprietary Exynos 1280 chipset.
All three devices boast expansive 6.5-inch Super AMOLED displays with FHD+ resolution, adorned with Infinity-U notch cutouts. The A15 models push the boundaries with a 90Hz refresh rate, while the A25 elevates the experience with a 120Hz panel reaching a dazzling 1,000 nits of brightness compared to the A15’s 800 nits.
A unified design element across the trio is the inclusion of a 13MP front-facing camera and the innovative Key Island design, featuring a distinctive convex shape around the power and volume keys.
Under the hood, the A15 packs MediaTek’s potent Helio G99 chip, 8GB RAM, and expandable storage options of 128GB or 256GB.
Its 5G counterpart, the A15 5G, features the Dimensity 6100+, paired with 8GB RAM and a spacious 256GB storage, also expandable. The A25 5G introduces the Exynos 1280 chip, 6/8GB RAM configurations, and a generous 128GB expandable storage.
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the A15’s 50MP main camera, while the A25 steps up with a 50MP main shooter equipped with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro camera. All three devices run on One UI 6.0 based on Android 14 and boast robust 5,000 mAh batteries supporting 25W charging. Choose from vibrant colours, including Yellow, Fantasy Blue, Optimistic Blue, and timeless Black.
Welcome to the elite enclave of ultrabooks and premium laptops, where cutting-edge power blends seamlessly with portability. Today, where every keystroke feels like a step into the future, we present to you a curated collection of the top Ultrabooks and Premium Laptops of 2023. The future is now, and it’s wrapped in aluminium, powered by silicon, and adorned with the promise of limitless possibilities.
HP Pavilion Plus 14
Check out the HP Pavilion Plus 14—it’s got that sleek and slim vibe, packs a punch with its speedy performance, and you can even opt for a striking 90Hz OLED display. Need storage? No problem, it’s got a whopping 1TB. It is loaded with a Core i7 H-Series CPU and the best part? It won’t break the bank. The laptop boasts a solid build quality, a bunch of ports to play with, and a crispy 5-MP webcam to capture your good side.
Yeah, it’s got a few quirks, but overall, this Pavilion Plus is the real deal if you want a top-notch ultraportable without burning a hole in your wallet. Whether you’re grinding through assignments, rocking professional life, or jet-setting around the globe, the Pavilion Plus 14 has your back. It’s quick, it’s light, and just makes life easier. Seriously, if you’re hunting for a trusty, lightweight sidekick, this bad boy in any setup is a winner.
Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Ultra
Samsung isn’t just killing it in the smartphone and foldable arena, their laptops are making waves, too! Meet the Galaxy Book 3 Ultra, a legit jaw-dropping 16-inch screen that’s basically a visual feast and not just a pretty face. This bad guy is powered by a 13th Gen Intel Core i7, rocks Nvidia GeForce RTX 40-Series graphics, throws in 16GB of RAM, and serves up a speedy 1TB SSD storage, all crammed into a chassis that’s just 0.65 inches thick. Yep, you read that right.
The Book 3 Ultra flaunts a dazzling 2880 x 1800-pixel, 120Hz, Super AMOLED 2X masterpiece display. It’s a showstopper, no doubt. With its heftier weight of 3.95 pounds, indeed, it’s a heavyweight champion. The webcam and battery could use a little boost, but seriously, those are just minor blips in a laptop that’s dangerously close to perfection. If you’re after a powerhouse that doesn’t compromise on looks or performance, the Book 3 Ultra is where it’s at.
Apple MacBook 14” Pro (M3)
Apple recently launched the MacBook Pro 14-inch with the M3 chip, and it’s a performance powerhouse with a dazzling display, robust graphics, and an epic battery life that won’t stop. The 14-inch mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display steals the spotlight, it’s among the best in laptop town, shining even brighter with improved SDR content. Sure, you miss out on the Space Black colour, but Space Silver and Space Gray still bring the chic vibes.
Under the hood, the M3 chip is a game-changer, handling everything from a swarm of tabs to quick photo edits like a champ. Geekbench confirms it, scoring 20% faster than its predecessor. Yes, it’s significantly costlier than the 13-inch, but the upgrades are worth it—bigger, more colourful display, sharper webcam, more ports, and a performance boost that’ll make you smile. And let’s not forget that jaw-dropping 17 hours of battery life. It’s the upgrade you’ve been waiting for.
LG Gram Pro 17 (2023)
The LG Gram Pro 17 is the heavyweight champ of big-screen ultraportables. Sporting a massive 17-inch display with a sleek 16:10 aspect ratio, this gangsta brings the wow factor. It’s not just about the size, though; it’s got the performance to match and the battery life to live long enough. Sure, it’s a bit heavier than its predecessor, but that’s because it’s flexing a discrete Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics chip.
It may not win the sturdiness award or the budget-friendly category, but dang, it’s a delightful surprise in the “having it all” department as it is lightweight and rocks a spacious display. If you’re craving the portability of an ultraportable but drooling over-the-screen real estate of a desktop-replacement laptop, the LG Gram Pro 17 is your match made in tech heaven. It’s the dream combo in an easy-to-carry package.
Dell XPS 15 (9530)
Dell’s XPS lineup still reigns supreme, and the XPS 15 (9530) is the shining example of why. If you’re not in the market for a one-trick pony but want a laptop that can handle your everyday hustle, the XPS 15 is your tech soulmate. Packing a punch with a killer 13th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU, the laptop doesn’t flinch when it comes to performance. It’s your go-to for seamless multitasking. Stacked with 32GB of RAM and a speedy 1TB SSD, it’s not just brains; it’s got the brawn, too.
Graphics-wise, you’ve got Intel Iris on the entry models, but if you’re feeling fancy, the pricier versions boast an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, making the laptop a legit gaming contender. The XPS 15’s 3.5K OLED display is definitely a showstopper, it’s sharp, vivid, and downright stunning, it’s like carrying a visual feast wherever you go. If you want a laptop that’s as versatile as your day-to-day needs and looks damn good doing it, the XPS 15 is your ticket to ride.
Asus Zenbook 14″ OLED
Don’t wanna break the bank but still want a killer ultrabook? Then, the Asus Zenbook 14″ OLED (UM3402YA-WS51T) is all set to see you. It might not have the same longevity as the Spectre x360, but it won’t make your wallet cry either. Let’s talk perks: fingerprint reader? Check. USB-C charger? You bet. And the touchpad? Surprise—it moonlights as a number pad. The webcam isn’t winning any Oscars, but it gets the job done. Still, the Zenbook 14″ is no slouch, it’s got that on-the-go vibe and the battery? It’s a workhorse, lasting you through a full day of hustle. So, if you’re all about that great value without burning a hole in your pocket, the Zenbook 14″ is here to rock your tech world.
Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 8 (2023)
The Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 8 (2023) will rock your tech world, it’s a speed demon with killer features, all wrapped up in a design that screams sophistication. Seriously, this thing is a head-turner, boasting a sleek chassis that plays host to a 360-degree-rotating soundbar and an OLED display that’s basically a feast for your eyeballs. Performance-wise, the laptop flexes its muscles, leaving competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Book3 Pro 360 in the dust in most of the benchmarks. So, if you’re in the market for a laptop that’s not just a powerhouse but also a showstopper, the Yoga 9i Gen 8 is the one for you.
The modern world is dominated by pixels, lenses, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect shot. Having a smartphone with superb cameras instead of the actual camera is the trending nature of today’s generation. So, here, we present a lineup of smartphone marvels that aren’t just phones – they’re visual sorcerers, capturing moments with finesse and flair.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Say hello to the smartphone camera maestro that not only dances circles around its price tag but also throws some slick moves at the iPhone 15 Pro and casually outshines the iPhone 14 Pro Max without breaking a sweat. The flagship smartphone from Google is like the James Bond of the smartphone universe – smooth, suave, and armed with a camera license to thrill. The name is 8 Pro, the Pixel 8 Pro.
The Pixel 8 Pro doesn’t take photos; it gives them a spa day. With a new RAW capture feature, it unleashes the full potential of its 50MP sensor, making other cameras look like they’re stuck in a pixelated time warp. And if you’re feeling like the Spielberg of your own life, the pro controls mode hands you the director’s chair, letting you tweak and twist your images to perfection.
The camera mix is like a gourmet meal for your visual taste buds. It’s got a higher-megapixel wide-angle lens that’s sharper than your grandma’s wit, and a telephoto lens so good, it might as well have a superhero cape. Video? It’s taken a leap from Pixel 7 Pro, though it’s still trying to catch up with the iPhone Pro Max – like the underdog in a blockbuster movie, getting there but not quite stealing the spotlight.
With a design sleeker than a catwalk model, a screen mightier than a superhero’s punch, and the promise of software support for seven whole years (yes, you heard right), it’s basically the Benjamin Button of smartphones, ageing like fine wine. So, if you’re looking for a smartphone that’s more than just a status symbol, consider your search officially over. Cheers to the phone that’s as smart as it is pixel-perfect!
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the reigning monarch of camera phones, a visual virtuoso that laughs in the face of photographic challenges. With more lenses than a bug’s eyes and features that could make a Swiss Army Knife jealous, this phone is the superhero of snapshots – there’s no photo it can’t conquer. Sure, other phones might flex slightly better muscles in specific situations, but the S23 Ultra is the Virat Kohli of the camera world, handling everything from macro close-ups to nocturnal escapades to zooming in on the neighbour’s barbecue three blocks away.
The 12MP ultrawide and the dynamic duo of 3x and 10x 10MP telephoto sensors might feel like your old pals, but hold on to your selfie stick – the S23 Ultra throws a plot twist. Out with the old 108MP primary sensor, in with the new 200MP powerhouse, making Samsung the Beyoncé of smartphone photography, slaying the game with unprecedented resolution. The S23 Ultra’s 200MP Adaptive Pixel Sensor is like a maestro conducting a symphony of pixels, ensuring a consistent and jaw-dropping experience that would make even the toughest critics break into applause.
Now, for those who like to dive into the nitty-gritty of photography, the Expert RAW mode is your backstage pass, belting out up to 50MP of pure visual genius. Feeling a bit extra? Snap a 200MP still (in jpeg form), because why settle for anything less than the full sensor’s glorious detail? While other Android phones are stuck in the stone age, Samsung’s playing chess, ensuring your pics and videos get the red carpet treatment, leaving your followers in awe and envy. It’s a visual masterpiece in the palm of your hand. Say cheese, world!
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the Chuck Norris of smartphones. It’s a pocket-sized powerhouse thicker than a bowl of oatmeal but packs a punch that will leave you wondering if you accidentally bought a superhero’s gadget. Sure, it’s got some girth, but don’t let that fool you. The little beast boasts a footprint so compact, it’s practically doing yoga in your pocket. And photographers, rejoice! The camera and power combo is like a match made in tech heaven – an offer you can’t refuse.
I’m not saying it’s perfect, as there’s no pro mode for manual photography, but the automatic mode’s photo processing is like the Gandalf of phone photography – you shall not pass without capturing stunning shots. The 5x telephoto camera is like having a spyglass that sees further and clearer than your nosy neighbour peeping through the curtains. Beautiful natural blur on portraits? Say no more – the Pro Max has got your Instagram game covered.
The iPhone 15 range has joined the 21st century by adopting the USB-C port. It’s like Apple finally realised we’re not living in the era of dial-up internet anymore. Now, you can connect to monitors and camera accessories with the ease of a hot knife through butter. The price is up there in the stratosphere, but think of it as an investment in your happiness. The iPhone 15 Pro is like that reliable friend who never lets you down – powerful, long-lasting, and always ready for a good time.
Google Pixel 7a
The Google Pixel 7a – is the Cinderella of budget camera phones, proving that you don’t need a royal budget to capture breathtaking moments. In fact, it might just be the belle of the ball, giving its pricier sibling, the Google Pixel 7 Pro, a run for its money in the photo quality department. The 7a is priced at midrange money, so Google had to make a few sacrifices. Compared to its elder siblings, there are fewer cameras onboard, and wireless charging is a distant fairytale dream. But hey, who needs a magic carpet when you’ve got Google’s wizardry?
Google’s not one to flex muscles in the hardware gym; it prefers a PhD in cleverness. The Pixel 7a is no exception. Armed with the Google Tensor chip – think of it as the Dumbledore of smartphone brains – it boasts features like an under-display fingerprint scanner, unlocking your phone with a touch so discreet it’s practically a secret handshake. And let’s not forget the AI photo editing powers – it’s like having a personal Photoshop sorcerer in your pocket. Sure, it might not bench-press as much as its beefier counterparts, but the 7a is a camera ninja.
Google’s software magic transforms it into a powerful shooter, snapping pics that make other budget phones blush. And who says budget can’t be stylish? The 7a mounts its stuff with a design so playful, it’s practically doing the cha-cha in your hands. So, while the hardware might be sipping a decaf, the Pixel 7a is a budget superhero, delivering a bang for your buck that feels more like a dynamite explosion. Who needs wireless charging when you’ve got brains, beauty, and budget brilliance?
Vivo X90 Pro
Tired of seeing the prominent names? Now, you’ll see a different name in the list. Armed with a 1-inch primary sensor that’s practically the Beyoncé of the camera world, the Vivo X90 Pro is the Picasso of smartphone photography. If cameras were superheroes, the X90 Pro would be the one with a cape and a dazzling smile. Accompanying this camera juggernaut is a 50MP telephoto sensor, a.k.a. the portrait lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, because who needs limits when you can go wide and wild?
Now, we’ll admit, there were a couple of bumps in the road when we first took this camera for a spin – the watermark on photos and the beauty mode for portrait shots were like uninvited guests at a party. Our advice? Disable those party crashers pronto. The Zero Shutter Lag feature is like having a magical genie that grants your photography wishes in the blink of an eye. Lighting is on point? It’s like catching the perfect moment before it even realises it’s perfect. And the sensor? Oh, it’s so high-quality, it practically moonlights as a professional photographer.
And let’s not forget the selfie camera, a 32MP resolution wizard that turns every selfie into a masterpiece. The natural depth of field effect is like having a built-in Instagram filter that says, “I woke up like this.” The portrait camera is a rockstar, but let’s spill the beans – the bokeh effect is like having a backstage pass to a rock concert. The X90 Pro is a magic show in your hands, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. So, if you want a smartphone that’s more camera than a phone, say hello to the Vivo X90 Pro.
Samsung portable SSD T series has been nothing but a delight over the years. I had previously tested the T7 Shield SSD which brought fast data transfer speeds in a rugged form factor. The latest Portable SSD T9 builds upon the strong base set by the T7 Shield and also takes a giant leap ahead. A revamped shell design, faster data transfer, and lightweight form factor have ensured the SSD T9 is one of the best storage options in the market right now. Let’s dive deep into its features and performance –
Design
The T9 comes out of the box in an impressive compact design which is sure to grab some eyeballs. It is light to hold and fits in your palms easily. The newly textured rubberized outer covering is the highlight of this SSD in my opinion. It allows users to have a study grip on the SSD. However, I must mention that the new design is a dust magnet. The rubberized form factor of the SSD traps dust on its body which is hard to get rid of. The minimalist design language of the SSD T9 extends to its sides where on the top end you get a single USB Type-C port. Samsung provides USB C to USB C and USB C to USB A in the box. Samsung claims that the rubberized exterior makes the SSD shock-resistant to drops up to 9.8 feet. We were not harsh during our drop test of the SSD where it was dropped from merely 6 feet resulting in zero damages, it is sturdy for sure!
Performance
The T9 SSD comes equipped with a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 20 Gbps interface which can be unlocked to its truest potential only when you have a supporting device. If you have a system that does not support the Gen 2×2 interface then the SSD defaults to 10Gbps Gen 2 mode, which is fast enough in itself. When it comes to file transfer speeds, the SSD T9 is the superhero Flash brought to life! I transferred a lot of data from my Lenovo LOQ gaming laptop to the SSD and vice versa; I was always surprised at how quickly this SSD can handle anything you throw at it.
Transferring files over 400GB took me around 389 seconds which is bonkers. There were also no heating issues witnessed during my testing of the SSD even when it was pushed to its limits. Overall, it is a dependable SSD which is a little on the expensive side but well worth its price.
Verdict
The Samsung SSD T9 is a crucial upgrade in the entire T-series lineup. It is sleek and stylish but also pulls its punches really well when it comes to performance.
Are you ready to dive into the world of smartwatches? With a smartwatch by your side, you’ll be living life in the fast lane, just like James Bond! But before you dive headfirst into the world of smartwatches, there are some things you absolutely must consider. It’s time to decode the secrets of the smartwatch universe and make the right choice for your wrist.
Compatibility
Imagine buying a smartwatch that doesn’t play well with your smartphone – it’s a nightmare, right? Compatibility is your golden ticket to the land of smartwatch bliss. Ensure your smartwatch is compatible with your smartphone’s operating system, whether iOS or Android.
Display
The display is your smartwatch’s soul. Opt for a vibrant, responsive touchscreen that makes interactions a breeze. Whether you’re checking your heart rate, reading messages, or navigating through apps, a stunning display makes all the difference.
Battery Life
Imagine your smartwatch running out of juice mid-adventure. Yes, that’s why battery life is a must-check before buying a smartwatch. Look for a smartwatch that can keep up with your action-packed lifestyle. Some can last a day, while others go the extra mile, lasting up to a week on a single charge.
Communication
Your smartwatch should allow you to send messages, make calls, and even summon voice assistants with a flick of your wrist. Whether you’re sending coded messages or just ordering pizza, a smartwatch that excels in communication is a must-have for anyone.
Fitness Tracking
A smartwatch is like having a personal trainer on your wrist – minus the yelling! Look for a smartwatch that comes packed with fitness-tracking features. From heart rate monitoring to step counting and even sleep tracking, your smartwatch should be your trusty sidekick on your fitness journey.
Price
Last but not least, the price! While we’d all love to have an unlimited budget for our gadgets, the reality is that we need to be mindful of our finances. Smartwatches come in a range of prices, so make sure to find one that fits your budget without compromising on the essential features. Remember, you don’t need to break the bank to own a smartwatch that suits your needs.
Best Smartwatch – Apple Watch Series 9
Price: Starting at ₹41900*
Display: 45mm or 41mm Always-On Retina display
Water resistance: Yes, swim-proof
Battery life: Up to 18 hours, 36 hours in Low Power mode
SOS – Emergency SOS, Fall Detection and Crash Detection
Since its debut in 2015, the Apple Watch has transcended timekeeping and has evolved into the undisputed champion of smartwatches. The latest gem in the lineup – the Apple Watch Series 9 marks a leap into a touchless future. It introduces an ingenious “Double Tap” gesture, a digital dance inspired by the Assistive Touch accessibility tool.
With a simple pinch, you can navigate the watch’s complicated interface without the need to lay a finger on the screen. The Series 9 has also harnessed the power of Siri like never before, thanks to the new S9 system-in-package (SiP) processor. Speedier responses are just the beginning, as Siri now lends a helpful ear even when you’re off the grid.
The Series 9 watch boasts a dazzlingly brighter screen that adjusts for nighttime and a slick watchOS 10 facelift. With its focus on Siri and touchless interactions, Apple continues to reign supreme in the smartwatch realm. While sleep-tracking might lag behind competitors, do you have any choice other than to ignore it for a couple of years?
Best Android Smartwatch – Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Series
Price: Starting at ₹32,999*
Display: Sapphire Crystal – 44mm or 40mm and 47mm or 43mm
Durability: 5ATM+IP68/MIL-STD-810H
Material: Armor Aluminum and Stainless Steel
Other: Sleep Tracking, Infrared Temperature Sensor
With the unveiling of the Galaxy Watch 6 series this year, Samsung once again reaffirms its dominance in non-Apple smartwatches. The iconic spinning bezel once temporarily shelved, makes a triumphant comeback in the 2023 Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. This time, it returns in a sleeker and lighter form, providing an exquisite tactile interface for navigating the new Wear OS 4.
The display is now brighter, ensuring effortless readability even under the sun’s direct glare. What truly elevates the Galaxy Watch 6 above its predecessors are its revamped health and fitness tracking capabilities. An overnight skin temperature sensor aids in monitoring ovulation and menstrual cycles, while innovative sleep coaching tools offer invaluable insights for achieving better rest.
The watch also brags irregular heart rhythm monitoring and personalised heart rate zones for optimal cardiovascular tracking, catering to runners’ needs. With enhanced processors, improved battery life, and a pack of optimised wrist apps, the Galaxy Watch 6 series sets a new benchmark and stands as the unrivalled all-inclusive choice, promising an unparalleled experience in the wearable tech arena.
Best Budget Smartwatch – Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Price: Starting at ₹9,999*
Display: Corning® Gorilla® Glass with DX+ in 44mm or 40mm
Durability: 5ATM+IP68/MIL-STD-810H
Material: Armor Aluminum
Battery 361mAh or 247mAh
Well, if you had asked, “What’s the best budget smartwatch?” in 2022, I would have said Fitbit Versa 2, but now that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is available under 10k, I’m changing my statement. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 emerges as a beacon of brilliance in budget-friendly form. Like a siren calling you to the shores of affordable luxury, this timepiece seamlessly combines style, substance, and, most importantly, savings.
With its sleek stainless steel case, vivid AMOLED display, and customisable watch faces, the Galaxy Watch 4 doesn’t just blend in—it stands out. It’s the wristwear equivalent of a tailored suit at a thrift store price. But this smartwatch isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a powerhouse of functionality. It’s your personal wellness guru, boasting health-tracking features like ECG monitoring, SpO2 tracking, and advanced sleep analysis.
Its fast processor ensures smooth performance, and it syncs seamlessly with your Android device, making it the ideal companion for productivity and play. By offering the Galaxy Watch 4 under 10k, Samsung has woven affordability into a tapestry of innovation, making it the ultimate choice for those who seek both style and savings in their smartwatch experience. It’s time to embrace the future without breaking the bank.
Best Rugged Smartwatch – Garmin Instint 2X Solar
Price: Starting at ₹50.490*
Connectivity: iOS, Android
Display: 40mm, 45mm or 50mm
Water resistance: Yes, swim-proof
Charging method: Solar power, plug charger
Battery life: Unlimited in the sun, 28 days without solar energy
Not all people have time to take care of and charge their smartwatch after every day or two. So, to have them on board, Garmin arrived with Instinct 2X Solar – a beacon of innovation and practicality. At the price of ₹50,490*, this remarkable smartwatch is not merely a timepiece; it’s an all-encompassing companion that combines the rugged reliability of a military-grade device with the futuristic charm of solar-powered technology.
The Instinct 2X Solar is a multitasking marvel that seamlessly transitions between roles: executive assistant, fitness coach, weather oracle, and even a digital wallet. With its enhanced solar panels, it boasts extended battery life, ensuring that you’re never left in the lurch during your adventures or daily grind. It isn’t just any smartwatch; it’s a workhorse, built tough and designed for readability even in the most challenging conditions.
Its rapid GPS acquisition, military-grade durability, and impressive water resistance of up to 100 meters make it a true outdoor warrior. Sure, like any piece of tech, it has its quirks, but the Instinct 2X Solar’s pros far outweigh the cons.
Best Fitness Freak Smartwatch – Fitbit Sense 2
Battery Life: 6days+
Display: 1.58 inches, AMOLED, touchscreen
Body: Aluminum case/Stainless steel bezel
Memory/Media: 4GB, Microphone, Loudspeaker
Compatibility: Android and iOS Check supported devices
Elevating the legacy of its predecessor, the Fitbit Sense 2, a true flagship masterpiece, refines the essence of well-being tracking. Its distinguishing feature, the groundbreaking cEDA sensor, ventures boldly into the labyrinth of your stress levels, unveiling its secrets with unprecedented precision. Stress, slumber, cardiac vigour, and physical pursuits all fall under its perceptive gaze, meticulously mapped out on its canvas of knowledge. With an aesthetic that mirrors an artist’s brushstroke, this smartwatch unfurls a vivid story of your daily vitality through its elegant graphs—an essential compass guiding you towards complete holistic well-being. Yet, if your appetite for innovation craves something new and exciting, the recently unveiled Google Pixel Watch 2 beckons with its own promises of technological wonders.
For those in pursuit of a smartwatch that harmonises seamlessly with every ensemble adorning your closet, Fossil’s Gen 6 Smartwatches deserve your undivided attention. While Fossil’s reputation for tasteful design precedes them, these timepieces are more than mere fashion statements, boasting an impressive array of cutting-edge features that elevate them to a league of their own.
What sets the Fossil Gen 6 apart isn’t just its aesthetic allure; it’s the technological prowess that lies beneath the surface. Rapid battery charging, swim-proof resilience, and a lightning-fast processor are but a few highlights. These watches have traditionally leaned on style over substance, but beneath the elegant exterior, they’ve undergone a transformation.
The Snapdragon Wear 4100 Plus chipset is fueling their performance, propelling them to a blazing 30% faster speed than their predecessor. Bolstered by 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, the Fossil Gen 6 emerges as a powerful and stylish accessory tailored for Android lovers who demand top-tier heart, health, and sleep tracking, all wrapped in an undeniably chic package.
What a turnaround it is! Bengaluru’s iconic Opera House was used for operas and cultural events during the British cantonment days back in the 1930s. The Opera House later became a movie theatre. Sadly, the iconic piece of architecture was shut for the longest time before Samsung decided to take it under its wing and revamp it entirely as Samsung’s largest experience centre. In 2023, The Samsung Opera House is a must-visit destination for Bengalurians, especially for Gen-Z and Millenials. The historic Opera House’s transformation into a futuristic Samsung experience center has completed its fifth glorious year!
Samsung Opera House Fifth Anniversary
The Samsung Opera House’s spectacular original appearance from the early 1900s is still present on its façade, but the interior is a contemporary experience area that makes heavy use of cutting-edge technology. Along with premier consumer electronics products, it features the entire lineup of Samsung smartphones and wearable technology. For those who want to use the Home office zone as their place of business, it also contains a fully functional customer service center and high-speed internet.
Samsung Opera House Experience Centre opened its doors back in 2018 and completed its fifth glorious year in 2023. It is a celebrated hub of innovation, entertainment, lifestyle, and culture in Bengaluru hosting multiple events across the years. Since its inception, more than 1K events have been organized at the experience centre. In the last four years, Samsung Opera house has hosted over 600 events that include product launches, live music, OTT Movie Premier, cultural performances, fashion shows, gaming tournaments, stand-up acts, and Galaxy workshops.
The events include Galaxy workshops on multiple creative avenues like photography, doodling, editing, Ted Talks, and much more. Baking workshops, movie screenings, and many more events have also taken place at the Opera House over the years. Samsung has focused on making the centre as an immersive experience by offering a wide range of products such as QLED TVs, Bespoke Refrigerators, The Frame TVs, Microwaves, and even activity zones at the Samsung Opera House.
Back in 2022, Samsung celebrated the fourth anniversary of the iconic experience centre by organizing a K-Fiesta where a large number of K-pop fans from across schools and colleges in Bengaluru gathered to celebrate K-pop. This year-round too, the K-Fiesta event will be making a return for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of Korean music, cuisine, and culture at the Samsung Opera House!
Samsung Opera House is now not just a hub of Connected Living, Gaming Arena, Audio, Home Theatre, and Lifestyle TVs, showcasing multi-device connectivity with SmartThings but also has a brand-new Starbucks outlet.
Check out all the details about the upcoming K-Fiesta event at the Samsung Opera House – HERE!
