Apple : New iPhone 11 release date, price, news and leaks |
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| New iPhone 11 release date, price, news and leaks Posted: 15 Aug 2019 02:18 PM PDT The new iPhone 11 launch date is looking stronger than ever, and we're starting to see some real, solid leaks on how the upgraded handset will look. If you're not up to speed with what the iPhone 2019 rumor mill is spilling forth, then you'd best get ready for a slight disappointment: the new iPhone range looks set to be nothing more than an incremental upgrade. We've got some heritage in sifting through these rumors - we've been at it for over a decade - and nothing we've picked up suggests anything more than that. What does that mean? Well, a similar shape and size to previous launches (with three phones mooted for unveiling at the new iPhone 11 launch) but they won't bring amazing changes just now. If you're interested in what's coming next, then we're predicting 5G, the Lightning connector being dropped and possibly even a foldable phone - but either way, that won't be happening until we see the next iPhone in 2020 at the very least. Update: The new iPhone 11 range looks likely to support a new rainbow colorway - which would be a first for the brand - and we think we may have got wind of the iPhone 11 launch date... and it's very much as we expected. Will we get the iPhone 11 'Pro' this year? We discuss this at greater length below, but as we're not expecting big changes this time around we doubt we'll get that much of a name change. It would make sense to save it for the cooler elements mentioned above, in 2020. What we do know is that the new iPhone 11 will be the poster-child for iOS 13, and we're pretty certain that we'll be seeing the iPhone 11, iPhone 11R and iPhone 11 Max... what Apple is going to call them remains a mystery though, with there being no obvious next step to the iPhone XS. The main change will be that camera upgrade - we're now fully expecting three sensors on the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Max, and just two on the iPhone 11R - but with enhanced capabilities on each model. What is of more interest is whether Apple will be pushing the iPhone 11R (if it indeed it does call it that) as that's the phone that's most prominently featured on its homepage - suggesting the cheaper phone could almost be the star of the show this year. There will reportedly be some smart features added for charging, and Apple might finally have added in something users have been crying out for - read on to find out the full rundown of what TechRadar's iPhone experts expect to see for the new iPhone in 2019. We've rounded the key iPhone 11 leaks in a little video just for you, to give a quick overview of what you may be able to expect later this year. New iPhone 11 release dateLike every year, we've been doing some sleuthing around the possible iPhone 11 release date, and we think we've got a pretty good idea around what's coming:
Apple hasn't held its phone event on a Monday for years, with Tuesday or Wednesday the most commonly used days. With the Wednesday being September 11, a day of mourning in the US that it's traditionally avoided, Apple will most likely pick an iPhone 11 launch date of Tuesday, September 10, 2019. Now, leaks from experienced phone-sleuther @evleaks suggested a roadmap of key phone launches coming later, but source code buried within the new iOS 13 beta release seems to confirm the iPhone 11 unveiling as Tuesday September 10. Apple hasn't launched an iPhone this late since 2011, when it announced the iPhone 4S on October 4, and this new information corroborates the same yearly cycle. This date allows Apple to ship its iPhones into retail channels well before the holiday rush, and is now a well-trodden path to do such. As for the new iPhone 11 pre-order date, Apple tends to open this on the Friday following the launch, which would be September 13 by our calculations. Finally, the new iPhone 11 release date - the day when you'll actually be able to get your hands on the handset for the first time - seems very likely to be a week later on Friday September 20, if previous releases are anything to go by. That prediction was bolsted by an analyst from Wedbush claiming that the three new iPhones launched in 2019 will all go on sale at the same time - the iPhone 11, 11 Max and 11R would all be on sale at the same time thanks to the production process being so much more mature this year - again, suggesting little in the way of upgrades. And it might not be just the new iPhone range that launches on this date, we may well also get the Apple Watch 5 then too. New iPhone 11 price: will it still be $1,000?
The iPhone 11 price is almost certain not to drop this year - especially for the 'main' new iPhone. After all, Apple priced both the iPhone XS and iPhone X starting at $999 (£999, AU$1,579) and without a massive change to the design or functionality, a price hike doesn't seem likely. With news that Apple isn't selling as many iPhones as it previously forecast, there's a chance the iPhone 11 will be priced more affordably - although we reckon a price freeze, rather than a reduction, is a more likely move by Apple. That said, the new iPhone 11R could be a touch cheaper - depending on the new camera technology. A less-costly iPhone than last year (where the iPhone XR debuted for $749 / $749) could happen if not a lot changes to the hardware... but if Apple goes with the higher-power camera, then the same price is likely to be maintained, in our opinion. The addition of the iPhone 11 Pro rumor - which, it has to be noted, is based on a single tweet (one that does have some form in getting the naming right of past iPhones) - would suggest a price hike for the phones. But given analysts are suggesting that the new phones will 'lack novelty', we're not expecting the inflated cost that would bring. New iPhone, iPhone 11 or iPhone XI?What will Apple call the iPhone 2019? It's a tricky one: Apple has backed itself into a corner with the name. Roman numerals could well remain, but how does the iPhone XI follow the iPhone XS? Apple has been staunch on verbally calling the handsets the 'iPhone 10' and 'iPhone 10-S'. With that in mind, the iPhone XI seems to make the most sense, but then - if the older models remain - there will be an X, an XS and an XI (along with an XR) - and iPhone 11 is easier to understand. The iPhone XS and XS Max are great, but there's still room for improvement That doesn't easily point to the best, most-desirable model. So could Apple do what's been rumored for years and simply go for the 'new iPhone' as the 'main' XS replacement, and stick with the same iPhone XR name, albeit with a small spec upgrade? As mentioned, the iPhone Pro could be added to the mix, bringing it into line with its iPads (and indeed MacBooks) in terms of their naming, but we're rather doubtful of that. That said, we've now seen the names 'iPhone 11', 'iPhone 11 Pro' and 'iPhone 11 Pro Max' listed by a case-maker, so we can't rule out the 'Pro' moniker. iPhone 11 Pro Max seems very unlikely though. But Apple has already ditched numbered increments for Mac, MacBooks, TV and iPads, so 'new iPhone' would be a logical next step - even if iPhone 11 would be the most pleasing thing for consumers looking for the obviously best new phone. New iPhone 11 designWhat will the new iPhone look like? Pretty simple really: from the front, quite similar (according to the leaks we've seen). The biggest change will be on the back: a hefty triple-lens camera in a square design. We've included a video from Mobile Fun above, one that shows the best rendering of what most are expecting to see from the iPhone 11 when it launches later this year. That design shows up in most leaks we're seeing at the moment, with the three camera system being used on the iPhone 11 and 11 Max, with the iPhone 11R still getting the large square bump, but only two lenses. The square protrusion doesn't look as attractive as we're used to seeing on iPhones, but Apple could be springing a surprise to make sure it doesn't lose too much ground to Samsung, Huawei and Google. We've seen huge improvements to the camera quality there, and while Apple's iPhones are still superb at taking pictures on the go, extra capability like a wide-angle lens would be something extra and would explain the extra size of the sensors. A leaker took a reported photo of the Galaxy Note 10 Plus - but did it with a phone that looked suspiciously like the iPhone 11R, with the double (rather than triple) lens array, according to the placement of the flash. Whether both are real is up for debate (the quality of the snap isn't great, and you'd expect better from Apple, even at this early development stage) it shows in the real world what the design could be like. iPhone 11 case dummies (credit: SlashLeaks) In terms of the triple-lens camera, that's on show with the dummies leaked above - again, not confirmed but matching what we've heard so far - giving us an early look at the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Max. Speaking of the iPhone 11R, reports suggest that the new phone will be landing in purple and green shades - in addition to the current range of black, white, yellow and red - with coral and blue disappearing after shards of the new material appeared. These were leaked by respected Apple writer Mark Gurman, who also showed the new iPhone range will have this larger camera protrusion in new case moldings, used by third-party manufacturers to secure your iPhone. We've elsewhere heard that all three new iPhones might come in black, white, gold and dark green shades, while one source adds that some models might have a subtle 'rainbow' finish. Another leak from CashKaro and OnLeaks, suggest the new iPhones will get a smaller (and more circular) mute button, but that's hardly going to raise the roof when the new iPhone 11 is announced on stage in September. Rumors of a frosted-glass back do appear once in a while, but (at best) this is likely to be a small variant and not indicative of the wider iPhone 11's design style - even if it would help improve wireless charging. New iPhone 11 display: the same or shifting?Right: let's get one thing straight... there's not going to be a flexible iPhone this year. While we've seen patents so far, that's as far as the rumor mill is cranking about a bendy Apple device - and that makes sense, given how many issues Samsung and Huawei have had with their bending handsets. So what will the iPhone 11 display look like? Well, the smart money is currently saying that things will remain the same. A rumor has stated that the 5.8-inch display will remain, with the bezels will shrinking slightly, although that was an added line to a wider 'leak' that the iPhone will have a central camera - which we don't think will happen. While some reports say the display size will stay the same size, others think the main iPhone 11 will be larger. We believe that the same 5.8-inch screen will remain on the iPhone 11 - as that will be cheaper for Apple to produce than making a whole new size.
Another way to save the cost would be to drop the 3D Touch element of the screen, according to investment bank Barclays (who claim to have spent time with the Asia supply chain) where one can press harder to open up a new menu. That would be replaced by a more powerful haptic engine that would do... something. According to 9to5Mac, this is known internally as 'leap haptics' and the source code of iOS 13 hints at Haptic Touch, which would replace the smart 3D Touch menus that pop up. The same confusion over screen size doesn't seem to reign for the iPhone 11 Max screen, with some suggesting the same-sized display as the iPhone XS Max (at 6.5 inches), but fans will have to wait until 2020 before Apple will increase it to a sizable 6.7 inches. The best leaks also suggest that Apple will stick with an OLED display for the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Max, with the same (cheaper) LCD screen for the new 11R, which would help keep the cost down and preserve battery life. Though one source adds that the LCD screen on the iPhone 11R will see some improvements, such as better anti-aliasing. New iPhone 11 camera: the biggest changeAs we've heavily discussed already, unless all the leaks are fake, the iPhone 11 camera looks pretty likely to pack a larger, more square lens array on the rear of the device. This is the only real hardware upgrade we're seeing from Apple this year, with 2019's iPhone coming with enhanced picture-taking capabilities. Schematics suggest the same thing, and most chassis leaks hint at the same square cut-out portion. Respected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has weighed in to say that one of these lenses might be almost invisible, adding at the same time that the selfie camera will get a boost from 7MP to 12MP. Image Credit: Weibo One source claims that only the iPhone 11 Max will have the three camera array, but that seems rather fanciful when Apple made a big deal in 2018 explaining how the iPhone XS and XS Max were almost identical bar the screen size - we expect three lenses on both the higher-end 11 variants. What will those lenses be? Well, smart money suggests that there will be three 12MP lenses: one that takes 'standard' photos (with decent low-light capabilities), the zoom lens and a new wide-angle option opening up a new world of photography capabilities. That source is suggesting that the third lens on the iPhone 11 won't have optical image stabilization, which would be an interesting move, and that the flash will be even brighter and more useful.
The same source also is stating that the image processor inside will be enhanced, but we'd expect nothing less from a brand that's likely to push the camera prowess as the main reason to buy the new iPhone range. Apple's Neural Engine did bring some impressive boosts to the photo quality of the iPhone XS, so another jump forward could continue the brand's ability to just take photos that, well, look nice - thanks to intelligent algorithms working out what they're looking at. Smart Frame capabilities would add a better way to improve the snaps you're about to take, but we're still mostly in the dark about what that would bring at the moment. Elsewhere, we've heard that the iPhone 11 could use 'new' 12MP sensors, and will offer improved photography, with the three lenses apparently working in coordination in an RGB mode. One of the lenses is also said to offer a 120-degree field-of-view. What about the front camera? Well, there we're going to get a 10MP sensor upgraded (apparently) - but the same suggests that the new iPhone 11 will have 14MP and 10MP sensors on the rear, which seems unlikely. Even still, an upgrade to selfies would be a welcome addition. A laser-powered 3D camera was supposedly destined for the new iPhone 11, that looks more like we'll see it on the iPhone for 2020, in a bid to really show off the new iPhone's augmented reality (AR) capabilities. Sadly, the notch looks like it'll be staying the same size - even though the camera tech is shrinking down, a source says the notch is staying the same this year. This aligns with rumors that the phone chassis isn't moving in size, so does make sense. New iPhone 11 battery and featuresThe iPhone 11 battery was always going to be a source of much debate, with users asking every year for a little more juice coming out of their device. The good news for them is that a couple of nifty tricks might helps things along for the new iPhone in 2019. One thing we're not expecting is that the new iPhone will lose the Lightning connector, the Apple-only port that connects to all manner of accessories. Multiple rumors have stated that it might be replaced by USB-C, but it seems (for now) that won't be the case. We've now heard multiple times that it won't get USB-C, so don't expect a guaranteed change from Lightning - even though it might have improved the speed with which the iPhone could charge. That said, we could see a compromise here: Apple might finally bundle in the 18W charging block that would see the iPhone charge more quickly. The catch: the USB-A end (the connector most of us think of when imagining a USB lead) would be dropped for a smaller USB-C, allowing for speedier juicing. Having that in the box would be a nice addition to the wireless charging that's almost certain to continue. That wireless charging would go two ways, meaning you'll be able to throw the AirPods, in a wireless charging case, onto the back of the iPhone 11 and be able to charge them up on the go. What about that battery pack? Well, noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes that the iPhone 11 will have a battery that's up to 25% bigger than the current iPhone XS (to allow for this dual-charging) without destroying the battery life in a single day. Huawei and Samsung phones already pack this feature and it's been well-marketed as a key selling point - so it makes sense that Apple would want to bring things too.
The iPhone 11 Max might not get as much of an upgrade, but 15% would still be a large jump forward compared to the current Max device - and without the device getting thicker, thanks to possible upgrades in the screen tech. Having said though, elsewhere we've heard that the iPhone 11 Max will have a 3,969mAh battery, which would be quite an upgrade. However, the same source says that charging will still be stuck at a slow 5W. What about some other smaller features? Well, another upgrade is that, according to one source at least, Face ID will be improved for the new iPhone 11 range, allowing it to work from wider angles. Apple always introduces a new chipset with its new iPhone launches, and the A13 chip is being touted for the iPhone 11, with analysts claiming a manufacturer is already lined up to produce the chip. After Apple made a huge deal about the AI learning capabilities of the A12 Bionic chip, one has to assume the big changes to the new chipset are going to be a big talking point come September this year. As for storage, one source says the range will offer 128GB, 256GB and 512GB capacities, while another points to 64GB, 256GB and 512GB. Either way, 1TB is looking unlikely. Let's move onto the more experimental features that may (read: mostly patents and leaks of things that could be possible in smartphones) be seen in the new iPhone 11 - but we think they're pretty unlikely. For one: the new iPhones may be easier to use in the rain. A report claims Apple is experimenting with a new tech that allows you to use the phone's screen underwater. Could we throw the iPhone 11 in? Image credit: TechRadar What's more, a patent suggests the camera on a future iPhone would be able to tell when you're underwater and alter settings accordingly, so that underwater photographs look better. Perhaps the iPhone 11 could have sub-epidermal scanning to be unlocked, in which the front camera would scan the veins and blood vessels in your face using IR to make sure it's actually you unlocking the phone. These blood pathways in your face are the most secure way of monitoring who you are - and can't be fooled in the same way as Face ID theoretically can be. Another patent meanwhile points to the return of Touch ID, but not as you know it. Rather, the patent talks about a system that would recognize your fingerprint when placed anywhere on the screen. So it would be an in-screen scanner that works across the whole display, though we're not convinced Apple will actually use this - lots of weird and wonderful things get patented with nothing coming of them. For something else a little bit weird, a patent filed by Apple shows a system in which a sensor monitors chemicals in the air, in order to 'smell' odors – including body odor. That would be a pretty cool feature for the Apple Watch 5 rather than an iPhone, though. Inside the device we've heard talk that the iPhone 11 will include support for the latest Wi-Fi 6 connection standards – though 5G tech will have to wait until the 2020 iPhones. One out there rumor on the iPhone 11 is that it could be compatible with the Apple Pencil - but we've heard that a number of times and we're not going to be drawn in to believing such a thing this year - especially not the size of the Apple Pencil we're seeing right now, which would be be bigger than any iPhone device. That said, it could be charged on the new wireless charging rear of the new iPhone - so that does make things seem a touch more believable. New iPhone 11: what we want to seeWe were mostly impressed with the new iPhones last year, but that doesn't mean they're perfect - talk to any ardent Android user and they'll give chapter and verse why the iPhone isn't anywhere near as well-specified as their device. That does kind of miss the point of the iPhone - Apple's never been about the spec, more the usability and overall polish - but there are some things we'd like to see more (or less) of with the iPhone 11 range: 1. No notch (or, at least, a smaller one)The iPhone X made the smartphone notch a mainstream 'thing' - but with the advent of punch-hole cameras and under-screen technology on our phones, the notch needs to go. While Apple needs that space to chuck in the array of sensors that make Face ID as secure as it is, we want a new solution - and Apple has the means to work out what that is, as well as helping attract a new raft of users. The notch is big... imagine if it wasn't there on the new iPhone 2. A new designWhile the current design of the iPhone XS and XS Max is one of the best out there, we want something new, something more. Apple could make things more sleek, remove more of the physical buttons or even wrap the screen around - a statement can be made with some smart engineering. Sadly, that doesn't seem likely to appear until 2020's iPhone - the new iPhone in 2019 looks destined to stay rather similar to the last two generations' design. 3. Better battery lifeWe say this ever year, but the fact remains that iPhones still aren't the strongest performers when it comes to battery life. That said, the iPhone XR was one of the longest-lasting devices ever from the Cupertino brand, so let's see some of the prowess baked into the larger, more expensive iPhones. It's not easy (damned physics keeps getting in the way) but that doesn't mean improvements can't be made. 4. eSIM onlyThe current iPhones - the XS, XS Max and iPhone XR - all pack an eSim alongside their main, physical card. While it would be weird at first, Apple has the power to change users' attitudes to what's acceptable on a smartphone (think how everyone is now losing the headphone jack) and making the SIM virtual would allow greater freedom to hop between networks and deals at will, rather than being stuck on one contract for too long. With 5G on the way, that's going to see a lot more competition for users - and flexibility will be the number one benefit for those wanting a great phone deal. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| iPhone 11 (likely) launch date is found buried within iOS 13 beta code Posted: 15 Aug 2019 02:09 PM PDT Ready for the next round of iPhones? The new iPhone 11 launch looks like it's been outed - and it's exactly as we predicted. As iOS 13 beta 7 lands for the public today, developers have been hard at work finding out what's hidden inside. While we haven't cracked through it yet, iHelpBR has found something revealing about the new iPhone. Located deep inside the code is a placeholder called 'HoldForRelease' - showing a homepage image with the calendar icon showing Tuesday, September 10. That's exactly the date we predicted for the iPhone 11 launch, fitting in perfectly with what we've seen rumored already and fitting with the previous launch cycle Apple has adhered to. iHelpBR pointed out that the same placeholder image was used last year in iOS 12 to show when the phone would be launched, displaying Wednesday September 12 (which turned out to be accurate), so we're pretty confident the same will be happening this year. So, if you're interested in finding all about the new iPhone as it launches, make sure you're not doing anything on September 10 - it'll be an iJamboree across the tech sphere. But what will we see?Now, here's the tricky bit. What will actually be shown on stage might seem obvious but there are a number of different things conflicting about what will be unveiled on September 10. We're almost certain we'll see a refresh of the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR - but what they'll be called is up for debate. Current theory - based on a tweet and a case manufacturer's placeholder entry for the new phones - suggests that we'll get an iPhone 11 (replacing the 11R), and an iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max to sit in place of the XS and XS Max. The new iPhone is set to look rather similar This seems unlikely for a couple of reasons: firstly, Apple doesn't seem to be adding enough to the new phones for the name 'pro' to be appended. Were that to happen, we'd expect larger screen sizes, more power and ways to connect a greater number of accessories - things we've not seen a lot of so far in the leaks. Equally, the iPhone 11 Pro Max seems an incredibly clunky name - Apple's already teetering on the edge with things like the iPhone XS Max, so throwing a 'Pro' moniker in there simply doesn't scan for a brand that revels in beauty so much. Apple will be hoping this - along with the much-vaunted triple rear camera - will be enough for consumers to consider it more than just a mild upgrade, which is what many analysts are starting to predict. TechRadar will be bringing you total coverage of the new iPhone launch as ever, so make sure you bookmark our roundup page to get all the info as it happens. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The best 13-inch laptop 2019: the top 13-inch laptops we've reviewed Posted: 15 Aug 2019 01:51 PM PDT In the market for the best 13-inch laptop your bank account can afford? Well, you’ve come to the right spot. It’s not easy trying to get by without one of the best laptops these days, as they’re essential for so many reasons. There’s only one real reason, however, to go for one of the top 13-inch laptops: they’re just the perfect size. 15-inch laptops are too large, while anything less than 12-inches will have you squinting. The best 13-inch laptops, however, hit that sweet, space-saving spot. They’re ideal for getting your work done, as well as enjoying movies on Netflix at the end of the day. Choosing one of the top 13-inch laptops for you will depend on your individual preference and needs. Do you want a simple and straightforward laptop, or are you partial to one with all the fancy bells and whistles? Do you need a 2-in-1 laptop that can turn into one of the best Windows tablets with just a flip of the display? Or do you want to skip Windows 10 entirely, and opt for one of the best Macs, backed up by macOS Mojave (or soon, macOS Catalina). There are a few excellent 13-inch laptops to choose from. Whatever your needs are, you’ll find the ideal match on this list. Image Credit: TechRadar It’s not often that we find a 13-inch laptop that ticks all the right boxes, especially one that doesn’t compromise on anything. The Huawei MateBook 13 is one of those very few devices. Rocking the latest Intel Whiskey Lake processors and Nvidia MX150 graphics in a chassis that really should be too small to fit them all in, the Huawei MateBook 13 is a powerful machine that can easily slip into most backpacks or medium-sized tote bags. Even better for users who cannot afford to splurge, it’s budget-friendly. What more could you ask for? Read the full review: Huawei MateBook 13 Image Credit: TechRadar While its changes over last year’s model are subtle, there’s no doubt that the Dell XPS 13 is still one of the best 13-inch laptops money can buy. On the high end, the 4K display delivers a sharper picture across the board. Even if you can’t afford the highest end model, the dashing design, long battery life and SD card slot aren’t going anywhere. More importantly, you’ve got a quad-core processor regardless of configuration you end up with. The Dell XPS 13 is, without a doubt, one of the best 13-inch laptops right now. Read the full review: Dell XPS 13 Image credit: TechRadar One look at the HP Spectre x360, and you’ll be hard-pressed to argue that it’s one of the most beautiful laptops on the market today. That gem-cut build means it’ll get your work done in style. It’s not all skin-deep, however. This stunning 13-inch laptop is packed with the latest Intel hardware as well, so you know it can get your work done. And, if that’s not enough, it can also be flipped around into tablet mode. The HP Spectre x360 really is one of the best 13-inch laptops out there. Read the full review: HP Spectre x360 Image Credit: TechRadar While the 13-inch version isn’t the most powerful Surface Book 2 right now, it still makes for one of the best 13-inch laptops on the market. Whether you’re a professional or a creative or even a student, the Surface Book 2 will handle your daily workload effortlessly and in style. What’s more, the dynamic fulcrum hinge is much improved this time around, complementing the robust quad-core processor. And, unlike many other 2-in-1 laptops, the keyboard is removable to make it much more manageable, as well as thinner, when in tablet mode. Read the full review: Microsoft Surface Book 2 Image Credit: TechRadar You may be expecting a gaming laptop, especially given Razer’s reputation. But in reality, the Razer Blade Stealth just happens to be one of the best 13-inch laptops to buy today. It’s thin, light, and packed with the latest Ultrabook-class internals – including dedicated MX150 graphics, which means you can play your favorite titles on the go. The 8th-generation Intel Whiskey Lake Processor makes this laptop a force to be reckoned with. Of course, that comes at a cost. However, the sheer style and build quality might be worth it. Read the full review: Razer Blade Stealth Image Credit: TechRadar If you’re looking for a speedy and svelte 13-inch laptop to schlep around with you – and you don’t mind sacrificing some premium features, then you’ll love the Asus ZenBook 13. Coming in at just half an inch thick and weighing only 2.5 pounds, this is the ideal laptop for traveling. But, don’t think you have to compromise on power with all this portability. The Asus ZenBook 13 boasts quad-core Intel chips, 8GB of RAM and up to 1TB SSD. Its combination of power, portability and pretty easily makes it one of the best Asus laptops around. The only thing you’re missing here is a USB-C port, but it’s easy to overlook, especially on a laptop as stylish as this. Read the full review: Asus Zenbook 13 Thanks to its sleek 13-inch design, this 2-in-1 is slimmer that you would have expected, which works in your favor when using it in tablet mode. There are other compelling reasons why you must consider the HP Envy x360 (2019) when sorting through the best 13-inch laptops on the market. This one boasts a premium build, 9 hours of video playback and a performance that will get you through most of your schoolwork and project, all without burning a hole in your pocket. Read the full review: HP Envy x360 (2019) Image Credit: TechRadar The early Surface Laptop had our vote for one of the best 13-inch laptops, due to its stunning screen, competent internals and solid build quality. We are, therefore, happy to find its sequel, the Surface Laptop 2, doing everything better and taking some features to a new level. You won’t find any drastic changes, but the faster 8th-generation CPUs, 8GB of RAM and, most importantly, the removal of Windows 10 S all add up to making the Surface Laptop 2 one of the best 13-inch laptops right now. Read the full review: Surface Laptop 2 Image credit: TechRadar While slightly bigger than your usual 13-inch laptop, this nearly 14-inch 2-in-1 challenger has a few aces up its sleeve – including longevity, power and durability. This means that the latest Lenovo Yoga C930 will last users long enough to get through their day-to-day workload and some entertainment at the end of each day. To round it all out, this device also has a nice display with deep colors, a solid keyboard and a decent trackpad. It may not have the best graphics performance, but it definitely more than makes up for that, making it one of the best 13-inch laptops 2019 has to offer. Read the full review: Lenovo Yoga C930 Image Credit: TechRadar The MacBook Pro 2018 feels like the final form of Apple’s pro series laptop since its 2016 redesign. It still boasts that thin and light design, while also bringing a wealth of improvements both to the hardware within and the Butterfly keyboard outside to make it quieter and more reliable. With this redesigned keyboard, you don’t have to worry about it breaking all because a piece of dust appeared under the spacebar. If you need an ultra-portable workhorse running macOS Mojave and can justify the cost, the 2018 MacBook Pro won’t let you down. Read the full review: MacBook Pro (13-inch Mid-2018) Bill Thomas, Gabe Carey and Michelle Rae Uy have also contributed to this article
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| Is this the Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Ti Super? New Nvidia graphics card appears Posted: 15 Aug 2019 01:29 PM PDT Fresh off the release of its Super RTX graphics cards, Nvidia might not be done giving AMD a run for its money. According to Tom’s Hardware, the Santa Clara company is working on an all-new graphics card that will likely surpass or match its most powerful models. Nvidia hasn’t revealed any plans to design a Super version of its incredibly powerful Nvidia RTX 2080 Ti, but these new details certainly highlight the possibility.
AIDA64, a system information, diagnostics and benchmarking solution for Windows, recently added data in its changelog regarding a previously unannounced “Nvidia GeForce RTX T10-8” graphics card, teasing a graphics processor (GPU) that could be joining Nvidia’s highly popular gaming line. It’s all about the dieUnfortunately, not a lot of information is available about this Nvidia GeForce RTX T10-8 card at this time. What we do know is that it’s based on Nvidia’s TU102 die, the very same found in the RTX 2080 Ti and GeForce Titan RTX, and that its current moniker highly suggests that it might be intended for the gaming market. This new card could possibly be a ‘Black’ version of the GeForce Titan RTX, and boast a faster factory clock speed or more memory (as that card already uses a maxed-out TU102 die). However, it’s also likely that the GeForce RTX T10-8 will be something akin to a GeForce RTX 2080 Ti Super, which will put in it between these two cards as far as price and performance. If this is indeed the Super version of the RTX 2080 Ti, we’re expecting more CUDA cores and faster memory at the very least, just like what Nvidia pulled with the RTX 2080 Super. To make it worth the upgrade for many users, however, we’d like to see a considerable performance boost. Ultimately, we don’t want to see another Nvidia RTX 2080 Super, which has been a bit of a letdown, as the performance increase it offers just isn't enough to blow our minds. Will this Nvidia GeForce RTX T10-8 GPU end up being the most powerful RTX card yet, or will it live somewhere in between? Only the inevitable spec sheet and price will tell.
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| Many Surface Pro 6 and Surface Book 2 models are suddenly being throttled Posted: 15 Aug 2019 01:03 PM PDT Microsoft's Surface Pro 6 and Surface Book 2 are running into some crippling issues, as processor (CPU) clock speeds throttle down incredibly low speeds, TechRepublic reports. The report comes from user complaints that indicate their machines' Intel processors are slowing down to as low as 400MHz. For reference, the lowest-spec Surface Pro 6 runs an Intel Core i5-8250U processor, which normally clocks at 1.6GHz. That's four times faster than the throttled speed users have experienced. And, that CPU can boost up to 3.4Ghz, more than eight times faster than the reduced clock speed. The culprit for the throttling is unclear, but the systems in these instances are reporting a "BD PROCHOT" CPU flag that indicates that some component inside the computer is running too hot, which results in the CPU throttling to decrease the temperatures inside the computer. Unfortunately, the throttling doesn't stop, as the 400MHz clock speed remains for some even after shutting down and rebooting the computer.
But, which component?Normally, you'd hope for the computer temperatures to go down and have CPU return to normal speeds after the component that raised the flag stops overheating. But, in this case, it's not clear that any component actually is overheating. Some users did suggest the throttling stopped when disconnecting a Surface Dock or AC adapter, while others suggest antivirus software may be at fault. What may be the root of it all is a firmware update. One was recently released for the Surface Pro 6. This wouldn't be the first time an update caused issues for Microsoft's machines. Just recently, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth drivers were hit with issues, and the Windows 10 May 2019 update has caused problems for the Surface Book 2. A Microsoft spokesperson told TechRepublic, "We are aware of some customers reporting a scenario with their Surface Books where CPU speeds are slowed. We are quickly working to address via a firmware update."
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| The best 2-in-1 laptop 2019: find the best convertible laptop for your needs Posted: 15 Aug 2019 12:56 PM PDT Over the last decade, thanks in large part to the best 2-in-1 laptops, we have changed the way we use our laptops. There’s nothing like flipping one of these top 2-in-1 laptops into tent mode to watch Netflix or into tablet mode for playing Plants vs Zombies after a long yet productive day of work in laptop mode. Hybrid laptops come in many shapes, sizes and levels of power. Many of the best 2-in-1 laptops – like the Dell XPS 15 2-in-1, for one – come packing with the best processors, which also makes them some of the best laptops on the market right now. And, we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this versatile form factor. The best 2-in-1 laptops are, more often than not, convertible, so the keyboard flips around the back, transforming the device into a tablet. Other devices, like the Surface Book 2, approach it differently. Microsoft’s convertible has a detachable screen, and its high-resolution PixelSense display is held up by sheer magnetic force when in laptop mode. No matter how they deliver the 2-in-1 functionality however, these versatile laptops usually have stylus compatibility – even if it’s now becoming rarer to find a stylus included in the box. To help you choose the best 2-in-1 laptop that matches your needs and budget, gathered all the best hybrid notebooks we recently tested, taking all their pros and cons into account. For years, HP’s Spectre line of Ultrabooks and 2-in-1 laptops has been about blending elegance with performance. The 2019 HP Spectre x360 15 is no different. It deserves a top spot on our best 2-in-1 laptops list for packing an 8th-generation Intel Core i7 CPU, Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 Ti graphics and 8GB of RAM in its base configuration. This 2-in-1 can handle pretty much anything your everyday workload throws at it – and then some (like a bit of light gaming, for example) – while looking like royalty. Bear in mind that the Spectre x360 is a bit big and heavy for a 2-in-1, so you likely won’t be using it in tablet mode that often. Put it in tent mode instead, so you can watch some movies on its spectacular 4K display. Read the full review: HP Spectre x360 15T (2019) It might strike you as odd that a Chromebook is on a list of the best 2-in-1 laptops, and rated so high at that. But, let us assure you that it isn’t a mistake. The Google Pixelbook merges the two forms perfectly. It’s an impressive device that takes the Chrome OS platform and elevates it to levels never seen before when it first rolled out. The Google Pixelbook is fitted with powerful components, as well as supports full Android apps, tearing down those walls that prevented Mac and Windows devotees from truly embracing the best Chromebooks. Read the full review: Google Pixelbook The Pixelbook is downright tempting, but it’s not for the economical buyers and other users who might prefer to go for the Asus Chromebook Flip C302, a worthy pinch hitter. Having introduced a touchscreen hybrid design to Google’s cloud-based Chrome OS, the Asus Chromebook Flip is made better by its compatibility with Android apps. Just like the Pixelbook, you can use the Asus Chromebook Flip for Google Play apps, albeit after installing an out-of-the-box update. It’s without a doubt one of the best 2-in-1 laptops right now. And, if you're already a fan of Asus laptops, this one will make you a true convert. Read the full review: Asus Chromebook Flip The HP Spectre x360 isn’t just one of the best 2-in-1 laptops on the market; it’s also one of the best laptops to date. There are only a handful of manufacturers out there that combine powerful components with a dazzling design quite as well as HP does here. The gem cut chassis will draw plenty of jealous looks in the office, while the formidable hardware will breeze through all of your daily workload. That light and compact design – well, it’s so delightful you’ll fall in love at first sight. And, when you’ve had enough showcasing is prowess, you can flip it around into tablet mode to squeeze in some late-night gaming. Read the full review: HP Spectre x360 Are you in the market for one of the best 2-in-1 laptops that delivers solid performance and serious horsepower? Well, you’ll find it in the Dell XPS 15, which incidentally gets our vote as one of the best Ultrabooks you can buy today. This 2-in-1 is perhaps among the most coveted 2-in-1 laptops – with discrete class Radeon RX Vega graphics to boot. With it, you get a gorgeous convertible that doesn’t sacrifice sheer power. So, while it has a price tag that’s a bit on the high end, it’s also completely worth breaking the piggy bank. Read the full review: Dell XPS 15 2-in-1 We had nothing but love for the original Surface Book. Needless to say, when we heard that there was going to be a 15-inch Surface Book 2, we could barely contain our excitement. Unfortunately, in the end, the Microsoft Surface Pro 2 isn’t the best 2-in-1 laptop out there. However, it’s still an impressive machine that’s only held back by a handful of compromises that were necessary to begin with. This 2-in-1 laptop features cutting-edge 8th-generation processors as well as Nvidia 10-series graphics for gamers and creatives alike. Combine that with its unique convertible solution, and the Surface Book 2 is an ace in our book. Read the full review: Microsoft Surface Book 2 (13-inch) Sleek, slim and boasting solid specs to boot, the new Lenovo Yoga C930 is undeniably worthy of a spot in the best 2-in-1 laptops list. And, that’s without mentioning the fact that it now offers a 4K display model, so that high-end viewing experience and decent gaming may be had once users have gotten their day-to-day workload out of the way. This 2-in-1 is a strong contender for consumers strapped for cash, but if you do decide to go for gold, be ready to break the bank. Read the full review: Lenovo Yoga C930 It’s no secret that we’re fans of the Microsoft Surface Book 2 13-inch, seeing as how we only raved about it earlier in this list. But how about its 15-inch counterpart? Well, with its long battery life, high-end specs that will breeze through the demands of day-to-day workload as well as a lot of entertainment, and of course, its unique design features, we’re inclined to feel the same way. This model isn’t for the budget shoppers, however. However, if you do have the money, its base model with 256GB storage is well worth the $2,499 tag and the best 2-in-1 laptop money can buy. Read the full review: Microsoft Surface Book 2 (15-inch) Thanks to its sleek, 13-inch design, this 2-in-1 is slimmer that you would have expected, which works in your favor when using it in tablet mode. There are other compelling reasons why the HP Envy x360 (2019) is worth considering when you’re in the market for the best 2-in-1 laptops. This HP beauty offers a premium build, boasts 9 hours of video playback and delivers a performance that will get you through most of your schoolwork and project, at a very affordable price. Read the full review: HP Envy x360 (2019) Acer has a knack for designing economical laptops that are reliable enough for your typical productivity tasks and some viewing pleasures. They’re proving that once again with their cut-rate contender, the Acer Chromebook Spin 11, declared by many as one of the best Chromebooks to have hit the shelves to date. Some compromises were made, understandably with its price tag of $330, including that subpar battery life. But for budget buyers who are unlikely to tackle processor-intensive work, this one’s for the books. Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Spin 11 Gabe Carey, Bill Thomas and Michelle Rae Uy have also contributed to this article Images Credit: TechRadar
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| The updated Nintendo Switch battery is a major upgrade from the original Posted: 15 Aug 2019 12:42 PM PDT Nintendo will have a new Nintendo Switch Lite model to offer in September, but it now has a refresh version of the original Nintendo Switch that can offer improved battery life over its predecessor. And, it has shown a substantial increase in playtime in a test by our sister site, Tom's Guide. The test they conducted involved running two Nintendo Switches, an old model and a new model, side by side at maximum brightness for an endless Super Smash Bros. Ultimate match of eight computer-controlled characters with increased AI and all items enabled. The result of the test was 4 hours and 50 minutes for the updated Nintendo Switch and 2 hours and 45 minutes for the original Nintendo Switch. It's worth noting that the original had been purchased and in use since 2017, so the battery may have seen some degradation in charge capacity. But, the results still speak strongly to the increases in battery life of the revised model. Nintendo rates the original Switch battery life at 2.5 to 6.5 hours, and the new Switch at 4.5 to 9 hours. The test showed both devices falling within Nintendo's suggested ranges.
Efficiency over sizeInterestingly, the size of the Nintendo Switch's battery hasn't changed between the revisions. The new model still has the original 4,310mAh battery capacity. And, since Nintendo doesn't details the specifics of other internal components, it's unclear where exactly the battery life gains are coming from. But, there had been some early suggestions that the new Switch would be more efficient. This test seems to prove it, and it could come down to an improved version Nvidia's custom Tegra X1 processor that powers the Switch. If you're in the market for a Nintendo Switch, make sure you pay attention to whether you're getting the new or original model, as it will make a big difference in your mobile gaming experience.
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| Walmart has the Apple Watch Series 3 on sale and back down to $199 Posted: 15 Aug 2019 12:33 PM PDT If you've been waiting for the price to drop on the best-selling Apple Watch, then you're in luck. Walmart has the Apple Watch Series 3 on sale and back down to $199. That's an $80 discount and the lowest price we've found for the smartwatch. If you're looking for a bigger display, Walmart also has the 42mm Apple Watch 3 on sale for $229. Discover more Apple watch sales with the best cheap Apple Watch prices and deals that are currently available. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Millions of workers are "unaligned" with their organization's strategy Posted: 15 Aug 2019 12:00 PM PDT A new survey from Slack has revealed that millions of employees are “unaligned” and this puts them at odds with their organization's strategy, vision and operating principles. To compile its new “State of Work Report” the company behind the popular online collaboration tool worked together with the market research firm GlobalWebIndex (GWI) to survey 17,000 global knowledge workers, managers and executives. Slack wanted to learn more about their experiences in the modern workforce and did so by asking them what do aligned workers look like, why does having aligned workers matter and how do companies attract and retain aligned workers.
The report found that 1 in 10 global knowledge workers believe they are “unaligned” while 15 percent of UK workers believe they are completely unaligned with their organization's mission. Aligned vs unaligned workersSlack's research discovered that only 34 percent of unaligned workers believe their organization's teams are working toward a shared vision. Of the unaligned workers surveyed, 70 percent either “agree” or “strongly agree” that they would like to feel more aligned with their company's vision, values and operating principles. Aligned workers on the other hand, are the most connected to a company's vision and strategy which leads them to approach their work with optimism and they are more likely to focus on high-value business activities. According to the report, the difference between aligned and unaligned workers has a significant impact on business prospects. Aligned workers in the UK are nearly twice as likely as unaligned workers to expect “significant growth” in their company's revenue and workforce. Unaligned workers in the UK though are three times more likely to expect “significant decline” in their company's revenue and growth. Slack suggests that organizations can help nurture alignment by implementing a clear and frequently communicated strategy with a thoughtful approach to information overload.
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| Google employees refuse to work on border agency cloud contract Posted: 15 Aug 2019 11:00 AM PDT Protests within the tech industry are gaining momentum and now Google employees are petitioning the search giant not to bid on a cloud contract with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). A new petition, which began circulating inside the company and on Medium, was created by a group of employees who called out immigration officials for “penetrating a system of abuse and malign neglect” at the US border. The employees also highlighted the Trump administration's family separation policy as well as the recent deaths of immigrant children at the border as reasons why Google should end its work with CBP.
Just a few hours after the petition was released, hundreds of employees publicly signed the document to show the company how important this issue is to them. CBP cloud computing contractIn the petition, the employees call on the company to end its work with CBP while also stating that they will not work on the contract if it is awarded to Google, saying: “It has recently come to light that CBP is gearing up to request bids on a massive cloud computing contract. The winning cloud provider will be streamlining CBP’s infrastructure and facilitating its human rights abuses. It’s time to stand together again and state clearly that we will not work on any such contract. We demand that Google publicly commit not to support CBP, ICE, or ORR with any infrastructure, funding, or engineering resources, directly or indirectly, until they stop engaging in human rights abuses.” This is just the latest in a series of protests within the tech industry as a whole and inside Google where employees have begun to question the moral implications of how their work will be used. Previously, Google employees successfully protested the company's plan to work alongside the US government on an AI system designed to analyze drone footage called Project Maven. Google has yet to publicly respond to the petition but we'll keep following this story as it develops to see whether or not this latest protest ends up being a success as well.
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| Best gaming laptops 2019: the 10 top gaming laptops we've reviewed Posted: 15 Aug 2019 10:50 AM PDT If gaming desktops aren’t your thing, you’ll be happy to know that the best gaming laptops on the market are just as high-powered and will more than satisfy your gaming needs. With more powerful components available now than ever before, like Nvidia’s Super RTX and AMD’s Navi graphic cards, now might be the perfect time to trade-in your old gaming machine and shell out some cash for one of the best gaming laptops, whether you’re considering a thicc desktop replacement that packs plenty of power or a svelte package for PC gaming on the go. What’s even better is that the gaming laptops have evolved so much in such a short amount of time, so now they’re more powerful than ever before. The best gaming laptops can run the best PC games at the highest resolutions and frame rates. So much so that you won’t even need to build the best gaming PC to get top-notch performance anymore. We put together a list of the best gaming laptops on the market today – from compact ones that tout a lot of juice to beastly desktop replacements that demand attention from anyone that walks in the room – for your consideration. These are the best gaming laptops we’ve tested and reviewed ourselves, so you can rest assured that your gaming experience will be up to snuff, whichever one you choose. If you fell head over heels upon seeing the Alienware Area-51m’s quirky and stunning white chassis, you’re not alone. And, if you happen to shell out that couple of thousand dollars based on looks alone, you’ll be happy to know that it wasn’t all for naught, as this gaming laptop – or rather, the best gaming laptop of 2019 – packs a hefty punch, gaming-wise. This is so far the most powerful gaming laptop on the market currently, and you won’t be able to help but be impressed. Its comfy keyboard and VR readiness are just cherries on top. Read the full review: Alienware Area-51m These days, the best gaming laptop manufacturers are scrambling to design the thinnest gaming laptop that also showcase raw power. At the moment, the one that might be leading the charge might just be the Asus ROG Zephyrus GX701. At just 0.7 inches thick, this beast of a laptop boasts an Intel Coffee Lake Core i7 chip, Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q graphics and 16GB of RAM. That means you can play any PC game under the sun on Ultra, and also take it with you wherever you go – excellent for travelers with a penchant for gaming. Plus, it’s packed with RGB lighting that’ll dazzle just about anyone. Read the full review: Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701 Play some of the best PC games on the move and very discreetly with the MSI GS65 Stealth, which might just be the gaming laptop of your dreams. Coming in at just 0.69 inches thick and featuring impressive hardware like Intel Coffee Lake processors and Nvidia GeForce GTX 10-series – refreshed with RTX 20-series graphics at CES – the MSI GS65 Stealth packs a punch in its very svelte package. There’s nothing you won’t be able to throw at this thing that’ll slow it down. And, thanks to the smart aesthetic, you’ll be able to lug this beefy rig everywhere you go, making it the best gaming laptop to hit the streets. Read the full review: MSI GS65 Stealth For a few years now, the Razer Blade has consistently been named as one of the best gaming laptops on the market. And for good reason, as it packs some powerful components and boasts a beautiful display in its elegant chassis. That’s true for the 2019 model as well, which now rocks up to an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080. That is, frankly, a ton of power for a laptop with this thin. If that’s not enough graphics power for you, you can use the Razer Core for future expansion. Make no mistake: it is pricey; but it might be worth it if style and power are equally important to you. Read the full review: Razer Blade The Lenovo Legion Y740 packs a lot of muscle inside its stylish yet accessible chassis, combining a very high refresh rate, Nvidia Turing graphics and a powerful processor with a gloriously effective thermal cooling, a cable management system and a number of applications for customizations. It’s as close to a complete package as you can get, wrapped in a stunning chassis that you’d be proud to show off to friends and strangers. It still has the remnants of that gaming aesthetic, but it’s made elegant so that you could be gaming in public and no one would be the wiser. Despite its shortcomings – unfortunate keyboard and webcam placement, as well as its subpar battery life – it’s still one of the best gaming laptops to date. Read the full review: Lenovo Legion Y740 A small number of gaming laptops just don’t pull any punches, enabling you to run any game you can imagine on Ultra without breaking a sweat – and the MSI GT75 Titan is a terrific example. It’s a behemoth of desktop replacement, packed with 6-core Intel Coffee Lake processors, plenty of RAM and powerful Nvidia Pascal graphics. Aptly named, this is indeed a titan, and is neither portable nor cafe-friendly. However, if raw power is what you’re after, this is the best gaming laptop for you, as long as you’re prepared to shell out the money. Read the full review: MSI GT75 Titan It may not have the most original or inventive design, trading in the usual black and red aesthetic for one that makes it feel like Halloween all year round (no complaints here, but some might not find it particularly appealing). Yet, it’s still one of the best laptops when it comes to gaming in 1080p. In fact, we are able to crank the settings all the way up in Overwatch without ever dipping below 60fps. It doesn’t offer the longest battery life, but just have your charger on hand at all times. Plus, the screen, power and onboard sound system more than make up for it. Read the full review: Asus ROG Strix GL502
If you’re seeking a gaming powerhouse, but you don’t have the cash to shell out for one of those svelte gaming laptops, the Acer Predator Helios 500 is the obvious choice. It’s packed with up to an Intel Core i9 processor and full-fat Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 graphics, and therefore will be able to handle any game you throw at it. It’s not the most portable device in the world, and the speakers and trackpad are mediocre, but when it comes to gaming, you’ve still got an ace here. Read the full review: Acer Predator Helios 500 Thin like an Ultrabook, yet powerful as any gaming machine should, and with an incredible cooling system to boot, the Asus Zephyrus S GX531GX is one of the best gaming laptops we’ve reviewed in 2019. It boasts an 8th-generation Intel Core i7 backed by Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q graphics and up to 24GB RAM, which means that this beast should take you a long way in gaming, whether you’re a casual gamer or a pro. We’re huge fans, though probably not of how much it costs. This pricey powerhouse is not for the shallow-pocketed, but with premium components come a premium price. Only invest if you’ve got the tenders. Read the full review: Asus Zephyrus S GX531GX Fitting the svelte yet cheap bill, on the other hand, is the Gigabyte Aero 15, which – at 0.74 inches. Despite its thin chassis, it still delivers top-notch gaming performance. That’s mostly thanks to its Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 and an Intel Core i9 CPU. It’s also ray tracing ready, making it even more future-proof. However, its thin form factor is a double-edged sword: the Core i9 gets way too hot and can throttle. Keep that in mind if you plan on doing any sustained creative work, like editing all your videos. And, maybe have a desk fan or cooler on hand. Read the full review: Gigabyte Aero 15 Gabe Carey, Bill Thomas and Michelle Rae Uy have also contributed to this article Images Credit: TechRadar
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| Best free blogging site of 2019 Posted: 15 Aug 2019 10:39 AM PDT Free blogging sites have come a long way in recent years, and it’s now easier than ever to create a professional-looking blog to share a hobby with likeminded people, express your opinions, and establish an online presence. These free blogging sites are aimed at hobbyist bloggers – blogs are created and managed online, and hosted on the blogging platform’s own servers. If you want to create a self-hosted blog, the downloadable version of WordPress is an excellent option, with total flexibility, support for third-party plugins, and as much storage as your hosting plan allows. If you're interested in making a static website rather than an online journal, take a look at our guide to the best free website builders. Wix makes it dead easy to design and realize your blog, and you can do a lot more besides Wix has a range of paid-for subscription plans, but also a free offering, although it’s best to note upfront that this has some caveats. With the free product, your site will have Wix branding, and you’ll be limited to 500MB of data transfer per month, so it’s not for heavily trafficked sites. You also only get 500MB storage, too, so bear that in mind. You are, however, free to build a blog with an unlimited number of pages, and where Wix really shines is with its powerful blog functionality. The editor may be simple, but you get access to all the stuff you need – from image galleries through to videos and music – and there are a ton of ways to customize a post. There’s also a lot of flexibility in the way you can schedule posts, and neat touches like being able to set things up so that posts are automatically pushed to Facebook when they’re published. For instance, you have a feature called WiX Bookings, that allows customers to schedule appointments and classes right on your website. And what makes Wix truly compelling is on top of this, you get the run of the rest of what this website builder offers aside from blog support. That includes using Wix’s ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence) editor to make building your site a snap even for novices, plus impressively diverse support for various different types of media, and quality customer support to boot (yes, even on the free plan). As of recently, Wix introduced Wix Turbo, which increases the speed and performance of websites considerably. When you consider what you’re getting for nothing, the bandwidth and data limits don’t seem like such a heavy set of shackles. And you can always upgrade at a later date if you want to break free of them in the longer run. Try it online: Wix Powerful and highly customizable, WordPress is a brilliant platform for blogs of any size, and bloggers of any level of experience. Creating your first blog is very straightforward, with a simple wizard that guides you through the process of choosing a name and suitable theme. You can leave it there and begin writing posts immediately, but the real fun lies in the more advanced editor, which lets you customize virtually every aspect of your blog’s appearance. Unlike some blogging sites, WordPress isn’t a drag-and-drop affair, and you’ll have to familiarize yourself with its system of menus. It’s well worth the effort, though, and enables you to create something truly personal. The editor also lets you create static pages – like a writer’s biography, for example. The post-writing interface is much like an ordinary desktop word processor (though some options are presented in a toolbar at the top, while others are in a menu at the side, which can be a little confusing at first). Again, time spent getting to know the interface is rewarded with advanced features like customizable social media sharing buttons, geotagging, and the ability to pick a custom style for individual posts. Sometimes you might want to create a photo gallery, for example, and other times a more text-focused style would be more appropriate. You can also view and edit the HTML source. As your blog grows, WordPress lets you track its stats, including page views, visitors, likes and comments over time. You can also see how readers reach your site, which content they viewed, and where they are in the world, so you can tailor your content accordingly. Your site is hosted on WordPress servers, with an address in the format yoursite.wordpress.com. Users of the free service don’t get email or live chat support, but the WordPress community forums are very active and questions are usually answered within a few minutes. Additionally, privacy protection for domains that are registered at WordPress.com is free. WordPress displays ads on free blogs, but provided you can live with that, it’s a top-notch solution for a free blogging site. Try it online: WordPress Blogger has been around for many years, but has kept up with current trends and technology, including responsive blog templates Blogger is another superb blogging platform. It’s not quite as powerful as WordPress, but more accessible for new users, which comes as no surprise when you learn that it’s owned by Google. Blogger offers an excellent selection of templates, all of which include mobile versions optimized for smaller screens – a very sensible addition with so many people accessing online content through smartphones. Blogger’s post-editing tool is much like WordPress, but offers fewer options. As a result, its toolbars are less confusing – a trade-off between power and usability. One of Blogger’s best features is its integration with other Google apps and services. For example, it uses your Google Drive account to store images and other files for your blog. Google Drive gives you 15GB of space free, so Blogger is a good choice if you’re planning to share a lot of high-res photos. Spam comments are a big problem on blogs, so Blogger’s automatic spam filter can help save your sanity. You can monitor comments via Blogger’s dashboard, which also lets you see visitor stats. There are some handy visualizations here, including a world map to show the global distribution of your readers. Your blog will have an address in the format yoursite.blogger.com, and, like all Google services, will include ads. Support is available through the Blogger user forum, which is very active but has a strange layout that can be a little off-putting. In all other respects, Blogger is brilliant – one of the best free blogging sites if you prioritize ease of use over flexibility and are a fan of the Google ecosystem. Try it online: Blogger Weebly takes a modular approach to blog building, with a drag-and-drop editor that lets you choose which elements to add to your site, and where. Pick a basic template, then plonk various types of content onto the page, including social media links, text, images, maps, and sections of code. It’s a refreshingly simple way to build a blog that feels unique to you, but doesn’t require any messing about with menus. It’s worth noting, however, that certain content blocks can only be positioned in certain areas; it isn’t a total free-for-all. This makes sense – forcing you to stick within the confines of your chosen template stops the page looking messy – but you might find it limiting. Blog posts are made in the same way: drag text boxes, picture frames, buttons and page breaks into position, then click to edit them. One particularly nice feature is the ‘secret draft link’, which lets you preview your unpublished post, and even share it with others via email before releasing it into the wild. Weebly has some other interesting tricks up its sleeve too, including an area for pasting in Google Analytics tracking code (though it doesn’t offer analytics itself). You’re only given 500MB for uploaded content, so photographers might want to look elsewhere. Weebly puts an ad in your site’s footer, but it doesn’t obscure any of your content. Try it online: Weebly Penzu is a personal blogging tool that lets you create your own private diary Whereas the other free blogging sites are designed to get as many eyeballs on your posts as possible, Penzu is the equivalent of a locked diary stashed in a safe. Penzu is a journal platform that makes your posts private by default and locks them down with at least one password (even after you’re logged in, you need a second one to read or edit your posts). That’s because it’s designed for private thoughts and personal reflection. There are free apps for iOS and Android that enable you to update your Penzu diary anywhere, but the contents are for your eyes only. Penzu isn’t a tool for self-promotion, so although it’s far from ugly, it understandably focuses on function rather than looks. Custom colors and backgrounds come at a price – currently $20 (about £14, AU$25) per year. It’s a shame that 128-bit AES encryption is also limited to the paid-for version, and there’s a fair amount of pressure to upgrade. Extra options are often dangled under your nose then yanked away, but the core offering is a good one, and if you simply want a place to record your thoughts and practise writing, Penzu could be just what you need. Try it online: Penzu
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| Best e-commerce platform of 2019: get an online store now! Posted: 15 Aug 2019 10:24 AM PDT The rise of the web has allowed countless businesses to reach a wider market. Not only that, it has given rise to countless new online-only businesses, fueled by the exponential rise of mobile connections. It's not surprising, then, that one analyst claims that the SMB e-commerce platform market will break the billion dollar barrier. There's no doubt that the web provides a huge opportunity for companies, but it’s important for organizations to make the most of that opportunity. In order to sell your products or services online, your website has to be appropriately equipped. Building an online store from scratch is a mammoth task, and fortunately, an unnecessary one. Today, there is a huge variety of e-commerce platform packages from which to choose. Most e-commerce platforms will provide businesses with standard functionality such as the ability to showcase products in an online catalog, take payments online, manage customers and provide with after-sales. Others will provide more sophisticated functionality, such as online marketing features, the ability to manage or integrate with in-store systems and the provision of APIs. Which e-commerce software is best for your business depends entirely on your specific requirements. If you're an online-only outfit, then POS integration won't be necessary, but you may get a lot of business from overseas, in which case foreign currency support would be a requirement. In this article, we’re going to highlight some of the best e-commerce platforms available right now, before moving on to consider other options you might want to explore in terms of creating your own e-commerce solution. The best e-commerce platform packagesShopify is perhaps the most well known e-commerce platform available. It was set up in 2006 by founders Tobias Lütke, Daniel Weinand and Scott Lake who, as the story goes, felt that there wasn't a simple-to-use e-commerce platform available and so built their own. The company claims that: "You don't need to have any technical or design experience to easily create a beautiful online store." According to Shopify, it's possible to get one of its online stores up-and-running within minutes. Users can choose from a wide range of templates, or they can design the look and feel of their store themselves. It accepts a comprehensive range of credit cards, has Level 1 PCI compliance and 256-bit SSL encryption for security, and it offers 24/7 support via phone, instant messaging or email. The platform provides a full CMS with which users can manage the functionality and layout of their online store. Users can manage their store on-the-go using Shopify's mobile apps, and the platform itself is fully responsive, meaning the store will be optimized for visitors regardless of whether they access it from a desktop computer or a mobile device. Shopify also offers users unlimited hosting for their stores, in-depth analytics of how visitors are using the store, and functionality for marketing such as SEO optimization, a discount and coupon engine, gift cards and email marketing tools. You can test out Shopify with a 14-day free trial. Bigcommerce was established in 2009 and promises to "support your business, not just your store." In addition to offering support via phone, instant chat and email, it also offers articles and videos to help with e-commerce, and access to a team of e-commerce experts who can provide advice and guidance about online selling. Their experts are qualified in both Google Analytics and Adwords. Like Shopify, Bigcommerce provides a variety of templates and themes to help stores look their best and get up-and-running quickly. Alternatively, users can design their own store or use Bigcommerce designers to do so. The platform incorporates a full-featured CMS that allows users to run an entire website, rather than just a store. Users can benefit from detailed and flexible product management, optimized search engine rankings, along with a variety of integrated marketing tools and analytics. Payments can be accepted via 40+ pre-integrated gateways and shipping details can be customized as per the business's requirements. As of late, some new features have been added like support for Amazon Import and Link and Shopping in Instagram Stories. The platform offers automated order processing, flexible tax rules depending on where orders are made and shipped, and support for multiple currencies. You can test out Bigcommerce with a 15-day free trial. Volusion has been around for almost two decades, having been set up in Texas over in the US in 1999. The company touts its platform as being an "all-in-one e-commerce solution", and offers a free 14-day trial (no credit card required). As with other e-commerce platforms, users are offered a variety of templates from which to choose, and can also customize templates if they so wish. Should a more complex design be required, Volusion offers a custom design service that can incorporate branding and a firm's social media presence. The platform provides the site and product management tools you'd expect, marketing functionality for SEO, social media, and affiliate outlets, along with emails and order management functionality for fast order processing, accepting payments, tax calculations and POS integration. In addition to its platform and associated services, Volusion offers apps from its partners, support for users and a knowledge-base for help with e-commerce. Users can draw upon blog posts, guides and webinars. As of October 8th 2018, there are no more transaction fees. CoreCommerce was set up in 2001 and focuses on providing e-commerce services to small and medium-sized businesses. The company places an emphasis on simplicity and transparency, promising that its platform is easy-to-use and that customers will not fall foul of any hidden charges. Perhaps CoreCommerce's most unique aspect is that all of its features are offered to all customers regardless of what plan they are on. Price plans are determined by the number of products, the number of email addresses, the amount of bandwidth and the amount of storage required by the user (and higher-end plans also benefit from additional support). As with other e-commerce providers, CoreCommerce offers functionality for store design, product management, order processing and marketing. Of its headline features, the platform offers unlimited product customization options, a built-in blogging engine, and secure hosting that is provided by Rackspace and comes with a 99.9% uptime guarantee. You can try CoreCommerce out with a 15-day free trial. Having been founded in 1997, 3dcart is the oldest of our featured providers here. It was set up with a view to incorporating as many of the most requested e-commerce features into one platform as possible. The company says it has six core values by which it operates: ongoing innovation, good service, simple solutions, fostering trust, keeping employees and customers happy, and stimulating prosperity amongst employees and customers. Some of the platform's innovative features include a module that users can install to offer gift-wrapping, a purchase order system, the option of running a loyalty program and the ability to offer recurring orders. Many of these features are very specific, meaning that stores can be highly tailored to the needs of each business. Stores can be designed using one of the many templates offered by 3dcart, or users can design their own store. A quick edit bar means that making changes to the design of a store is simple. Product images are fore-fronted with 3dcart's auto-zoom feature and products can be sold via Facebook with its store integration. As with some other platforms, users can blog directly from 3dcart and tools are provided for setting up coupons, sending newsletters and affiliate marketing. Users can also make use out of "make an offer" feature, which basically lets you and your customers to negotiate on a price. In addition to its platform, 3dcart offers a number of professional services. Users can request help with SEO, PPC, shopping feed management, social media, Facebook ads and conversion consulting. Help can also be provided to ensure that a user's store is set up to the highest standard. Services such as site cloning, setting up custom tracking, data migration and training are offered. In addition, 3dcart can provide SSL certification. Hosting is guaranteed at 99.9% uptime and 24/7 support is provided via phone, email or online chat. You can test out the service with a 15-day free trial. Also consider: Alternative meansIf you don’t want to go the route of using an off-the-shelf package, what other options are available for you to explore? That’s what we’re going to look at in the second half of this piece… Is eBay right for your business?Opening its doors in 1999, eBay UK now has over 14 million users, with over 10,000 people using the site for a business that is their primary means of income. It's not just about people selling unwanted goods - businesses have used the simplicity that eBay offers to set up lucrative operations. Even the larger brands such as Argos, Debenhams and House of Fraser are using eBay to sell online. With sophisticated tools now available you can be up and running with your store in just a few hours. The eBay Seller Centre has all the information you need. Each store is managed via eBay's familiar user interface, and there are a number of eBay-provided tools to help manage, track and promote your shop once it's established. Using eBay as the platform for your business could be ideal if your business wants to sell goods on a fixed price basis. The complete integration of the PayPal e-payments system into eBay takes care of this essential component of your store. The key with eBay is to look closely at the costs involved and also the transaction fees that PayPal charge before moving forward and setting up your own store. How to create your own e-commerce solutionOf course if you want complete control over every aspect of your new online store, building each page yourself will be the best course of action. Hiring someone to code your website is one option. If you decide to do this follow these steps:
You also don't have to build your site completely from scratch. Buying a template can give you all the basic pages your site needs. You can then either modify them yourself using an application like Dreamweaver, or hire a coding expert to make the changes. Website templates are available from a number of vendors including Template Monster. If you already have a website and want to add e-commerce functionality, this can be easily achieved with a number of applications including: Final adviceWhichever route you decide to take when building your website always remember:
Setting up your online store should be approached carefully and diligently to ensure you put a professional and efficient site live. Internet shopping continues to expand. Make sure your business doesn't miss out on a sales channel that shows no signs of slowing down.
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| No Man's Sky Beyond: everything to know about the game changing update Posted: 15 Aug 2019 10:13 AM PDT Cast your mind back to 2016 - Beyoncé's Lemonade was the world's best selling album, Rogue One dominated the box office, the Nintendo Switch was just a codename and a bunch of rumors, and No Man's Sky had arguably gaming's roughest launch. Built up by creator Sean Murray of Hello Games, alongside Sony, the then PlayStation 4 exclusive launched with billions of planets to explore, but little to do on them. It was a galaxy inhabited by millions of players, but you wouldn't see any of them. A combination of unrealistic expectations placed upon a small team and an over-zealous publisher, No Man's Sky left people more than disappointed - many were angry. In a world where every company seems to have an active social media feed, and in an industry focused on appeasing shareholders, it was strange to see Hello Games retreat into radio silence. After an unprecedented media blackout of several months, Hello Games plotted a course for redemption for their project that at one point seemed hopelessly lost in space. In July 2018, No Man's Sky Next update took the title to Xbox One, while also adding new multiplayer functionality, improved base building, and full third-person mode for the original PS4 version. This, combined with earlier updates, helped bring No Man's Sky closer to it's creators' original vision. Of course, the story hasn't ended there, as players have been abuzz with the recently released Beyond update. Here's a quick guide to the update, and why now is as good a time as ever to jump into No Man's Sky. When is the Beyond update launching?No Man’s Sky’s Beyond update hit all platforms on Auguts 14, 2019. It’s available to download now. How much does the Beyond update cost?No Man Sky’s Beyond update is available for free for anyone that owns No Man's Sky on any platform. So if you haven't played in some time, you've nothing to lose by jumping in. What's in the Beyond update?Quite a lot, actually. Sean Murray previously stated that ‘Beyond’ is an amalgamation of three "pillars" - each with a wealth of associated content and changes. Originally intended as three updates, they've now been bundled together. No Man's Sky Online You can teleport directly from the Nexus to a friend's base, and also pick up Multiplayer Missions with new co-operative activities with varied objectives. On console, eight players can now explore together (up from four), while PC players can now take their four player group and expand it to a whopping 32 players. No Man's Sky VR That means you can go from a planet's surface, into your ship, to the Nexus and back again all within VR. As you can imagine, this is for PlayStation VR players and PC VR owners, so Xbox fans won't be able to take part. If you can though, you'll be able to interact with non-VR players on your chosen platform. Excitingly, controls have been tweaked too. You can play with a controller, or use a PlayStation Move controller as your ship's throttle. It changes the game entirely. Loads more Some alien creatures can be tamed now, for example, while your Last Jedi blue-milk simulator isn't far away either with milkable creatures and a new cooking system. New environment types are being added too, and base building is being expanded on each planet. Quite simply, there's a ridiculous amount to be added. Aside from the new content, you'll also find a wealth of quality-of-life improvements. These range from improvements to the game's tutorials to the previously taxing inventory limitations. With a large portion of players being turned off by the seemingly endless grind of No Man's Sky, Hello Games are trying to welcome new players and returning ones alike. In fact, much of the game's UI has been completely redesigned. That is a lot, anything else?Actually, yes. The entire game has been updated to support Vulkan - overhauling the graphics API. This was actually done back in April, but PC players will now have the ability to change graphics settings without needing to restart the game. Performance is improved too, as is HDR support.
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| Posted: 15 Aug 2019 09:46 AM PDT The best Chromebooks in 2019 are not just more powerful than ever, but also more flexible and boast longer battery lives. That means that they are capable of so much more than their predecessors. Still, before you sort through the best Chromebooks to find the one that suits you best, it’s worth your time knowing what exactly a Chromebook is. You know, in case a lighter weight operating system and device don’t actually match your needs. To be fair, the best Chromebooks are getting more advanced by the day, and the premium ones especially can see you through more than just your general computing needs. And, the top Chromebooks don’t need the latest and greatest processors anyway, as they run Chrome OS and only pack what they need to get the job done. As a perk, they also boast fantastic battery life, which means they’ll last you all day and all night. Really though, the biggest reason why they're such an easy sell to users who do not have very demanding computing needs is the price. Chromebooks are generally very affordable – though there are some premium ones out there. In fact, many of the best Chromebooks are more affordable than their laptop counterparts. If your computer use generally boils down to word processing, emailing, watching Netflix, surfing the internet and mobile gaming, with very light photo and video editing, you really can’t go wrong with one of the best Chromebooks. And for you, we put together the best Chromebooks that showcase exactly what these affordable Chrome OS-based laptops are capable of. The Google Pixelbook is the best Chromebook of 2019 Not long after declaring the Chromebook Pixel’s demise, Google revived it in a way that was completely unexpected. Now, it’s the Google Pixelbook, and it stands completely independent of its predecessor. That’s owing to the fact, unlike the Chromebook Pixel, it can run Android apps natively, on top of building upon Chrome OS. When you factor in the huge amount of storage space, superb stylus and addition of Google Assistant, it shouldn’t surprise you when we say that the Pixelbook is the best Chromebook 2019 has to offer – even so long after its launch. Read the full review: Google Pixelbook The best convertible Chromebook Before Google rolled out the Pixelbook, and showed us exactly what the best Chromebooks should be, the Asus Chromebook Flip was the Google laptop many Google laptops aspire to be. With a full Intel Core processor and a full-HD display, the Asus Chromebook Flip was a game-changer. Put simply, if you want key features that the Pixelbook offers, but you cannot afford its premium price, the Asus Chromebook Flip is the next best thing. If you're on a budget, this is one of the best Asus laptops to consider. Read the full review: Asus Chromebook Flip A brilliant Chromebook for productivity When Android apps first became available to the best Chromebooks, it was only a matter of time before Samsung throw its hat into the ring, crafting a Chromebook that’s not only powerful, but truly beautiful as well. With a 12.3-inch QHD touchscreen and a 360-degree hinge, the Samsung Chromebook Pro also has a built-in stylus, the first of its kind to show up in a Chromebook. This device gives many of its competitors a run for their money – that includes most Android devices – even if the keyboard could use some tightening up. Read the full review: Samsung Chromebook Pro
Another top convertible Chrfomebook When you think of Chromebooks, education is one of the first things that comes to mind. With the Acer Chromebook Spin 13, the Taiwanese company wants its Chromebooks to be synonymous with business as well. Beautifully built from aluminum with a gorgeous QHD screen, it will perfectly fit in any office setting, as well as actually draw some envious looks. It’s more than just its attractive chassis, however: the Acer Chromebook Spin 13 is packed with full-fat Ultrabook processors, so you can get work done – whether it’s at school or in the office – in style. Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Spin 13 Another great 2-in-1 Chromebook The best Chromebooks are inexpensive devices that are accessible to anyone, no matter the budget. And, in that spirit, the Dell Inspiron Chromebook 11 2-in-1 perfectly fits the bill. This isn’t the most powerful Chromebook on the market, obviously. However, it boils Chromebooks down to what they need to be: affordable, easy to use and durable. This rugged Chromebook is great for doing all your web browsing, paper writing and show binging needs, and may just be one of the best laptops for kids, as it won’t break from a simple drop. Read the full review: Dell Inspiron Chromebook 11 2-in-1 Acer has made one of the best Chromebooks ever with the Chromebook Spin 11 The best Chromebooks make the most compelling student laptops, and that’s exactly where the Acer Chromebook Spin 11 excels. Whether you’re a student or a parent of one, this is a cheap, capable and durable laptop that will let you get some schoolwork done on the go. You might not get any hardcore gaming or proper video editing done on it. However, if you only need to write up some papers and stream videos or shows in your downtime, then the Acer Chromebook Spin 11 should be at the top of your list. Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Spin 11 Another brilliant Chromebook from Acer With a durable build quality that rivals a MacBook, it’s easy to excuse the Acer Chromebook 15’s aversion to 2-in-1 form factors. Still, given that the best Chromebooks rolling out this year are fully convertible, thanks to the wide adoption of Android app support, the Acer Chromebook 15 had to prove itself with more than great style. Beyond its aptitude for laying flat using a 180-degree hinge, this beautiful 15-inch Chromebook also makes a great impression with its battery life, lasting nearly 17 hours in our battery test. Read the full review: Acer Chromebook 15 Acer Chromebook R11 has a 360-degree hinge We wouldn’t be surprised to see Acer replacing the Chromebook R11 someday soon – at least, judging by the recent release of the Chromebook Spin 11, and owing to the fact that it isn’t the most powerful choice out there. Yet it still holds up to this day as among the best Chromebooks on the market, offering full access to Android Apps on the Google Play store. What’s more, it does so on a touchscreen display that can be rotated around into tablet mode, fitted in an all-metal finish that you would be proud to show off. Read the full review: Acer Chromebook R11 A brilliant value Chromebook from HP The best Chromebooks are the ones that balance a bargain price and efficient use of Chrome OS – and the HP Chromebook 14 is the perfect example of that. While it’s similar to the Acer Chromebook 15 in a lot of ways, this 14-inch Chromebook is a tad more compact and looks slightly better. Complemented by a bright blue finish and a screen made to astound, the HP Chromebook 14 offers the best value of any Chromebook out there. Even if the battery life and performance are average – the HP Chromebook 14 is easily one of the best Chromebooks to date. Read the full review: HP Chromebook 14 The Acer Chromebook Spin 15 is the ultimate Chromebook for multitasking We can easily forgive the Acer Chromebook Spin 15’s shortcomings – namely, its subpar trackpad and the fact that doesn’t take full advantage of the space it has – as it more than makes up for them with enough power for formidable multitasking, a battery life that will outlast yours and a beautiful touchscreen that’s surprisingly premium for the price. All those certainly warrant this Chromebook a spot in our best Chromebooks list, and that’s without even factoring in its affordability. If you’re not convinced that you should jump on the Chromebook bandwagon, this one will make a convert out of you. Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Spin 15 Juan Martinez and Gabe Carey have also contributed to this article. Images Credit: TechRadar Watch the video below for the top 7 things to consider when buying a laptop:
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| Camera rumors 2019: the biggest and best camera rumors around Posted: 15 Aug 2019 09:40 AM PDT 2019 might have already welcomed some fantastic cameras from all corners, but we're sure there's plenty more to surface before the year is up. Key highlights so far include Fujifilm's monstrous GFX 100 medium format model, as well as Panasonic's 6K-ready S1H and Canon's super-affordable EOS RP. Sony's most recent A7R IV also upped the bar for full-frame mirrorless cameras, packing a mighty impressive 61MP full-frame sensor among other goodies. So what happens next? We have an idea of what we expect and some manufacturers have already made it clear where they want to be heading with their various lines. And some rumors just don't seem to want to go anywhere, even if we get a few curveball releases to throw us off the scent now and again.
With all of this, we can start to piece together a rough picture of products that major camera companies might be aiming to release, and what thirsty photographers will be able to get their hands on in the near future. Now, it’s time to really dive into all of the juiciest camera rumors from every major manufacturer, from Canon and Nikon through to Panasonic and Olympus. Camera rumors 2019
Canon EOS R ProCanon EOS R Could we see a pro-spec mirrorless equivalent of the EOS-1D X Mark II? Or will it have a super-high-res sensor to rival the likes of the Sony A7R IV? Predicted specs: Too early to say | RF Lens mount While Canon's first full-frame mirrorless camera, the EOS R is a very good camera, it's not the flagship many had expected. The subsequent EOS RP is a welcome alternative, with a lighter body and a cheaper price tag, but there's still a huge gap for a camera that either has outright resolution or sports and action as its primary focus. CanonRumors had previously reported that we could see an EOS R Pro development announcement in January, although this never happened. However, in a recent interview, it confirmed a more senior camera was on the way – and since then, the name 'Canon EOS Rx' has been bandied around forums and rumor sites. We reckon it'll be a natural successor to the professionals' favorite, the mighty Canon EOS-1D X Mark II (though that's not to say we won't see a Mark III version as well), with a launch next year enough time to establish itself ahead of the 2020 Olympics. The strongest rumors suggest that Canon will focus on resolution first, and that a new pro model will pack a 75MP full-frame sensor, considerably more than the 50MP EOS 5DS and EOS 5DS R. Canon EOS M5 II and EOS M6 IICanon EOS M5 It looks like Canon's oldest current mirrorless cameras are set for an update Predicted specs: New 24MP APS-C sensors | 4K video recording | DIGIC 8 image processors | 30fps Raw Burst shooting While Canon's been focusing its attention on its new EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera, it doesn't seem the company's EOS M range is going anywhere. A replacement for the EOS M6, possibly called the EOS M6 II, is rumored to be joining the EOS M stable shortly, while an EOS M5 II update to the EOS M5 has also been mooted. Both models are to be designed around Canon's 24.2MP APS-C sensors, but we expect both new models to get updated sensors (though resolution is likely to stay the same) that support 4K video recording, hopefully without the restrictive cropping that the EOS M50 suffers from. This could mean we could see in DIGIC 8 image processors and improved Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology with better subject tracking. Canon's most recent PowerShot G7 X Mark III and G5 X Mark II also received some impressive 30fps Raw Burst shooting options – so will we see these here too? Providing the sensors can read out this information as speedily as the 1-inch sensor inside those models, quite possibly. Canon EOS 5D XCould Canon launch a rival to Nikon's D850 and Sony's Alpha A7R IV? Predicted specs: Full-frame 50MP sensor | 8fps burst shooting | Improved 4K video capture When it was launched back in 2016, Canon's EOS 5D Mark IV was our favourite DSLR. A well-rounded camera, it was (and still is) an incredibly versatile photographic tool. However, 2017 saw Nikon release the mighty 45.4MP D850, before the 45.7MP Z7 last year, while Sony launched the 61MP Alpha A7R IV earlier this year. All of these cameras offer more pixels while matching or bettering the performance of the EOS 5D Mark IV. So, unless you're a die-hard Canon user and heavily invested in the system, the EOS 5D Mark IV is hard to recommend over the other two. Then consider that the 50MP Canon EOS 5DS was launched in 2015 and we reckon Canon might consolidate its two lines into a single, multi-purpose DSLR that offers a high pixel count and high performance to rival the D850 and Alpha A7R IV. We're speculating here, but this new DSLR could potentially be called the EOS 5D X and feature a new and improved 50MP full-frame sensor that was used in the EOS 5DS, now with a much broader and improved ISO range, while burst shooting could hit 8fps. We reckon video might also get a hike in performance - the 1.64x crop when shooting 4K on the EOS 5D Mark IV is a bit of a turn off to many videographers. To aid shooting both stills and video, maybe we might also see the inclusion of a vari-angle touchscreen display. Canon EOS 7D Mark IIIOne of the oldest EOS DSLRs available, could Canon's high-end enthusiast DSLR be about to get an update? Predicted specs: Updated 20.2MP sensor or new 28MP chip | Dual DIGIC 8 image processors | 11fps+ burst shooting Announced back in 2014, the EOS 7D Mark II is one of the oldest, if not the oldest DSLR in the EOS line-up and we think 2018 will be the year we see the arrival of the EOS 7D Mark III. What can we expect to see then? It'll certainly get a new sensor, but whether Canon opts to stick with a 20MP resolution or increase this to 28MP (as CanonWatch.com is reporting), it's still unclear. It'll definitely get a broader ISO performance to rival the Nikon D500, while a better dynamic range at low ISO sensitivities would be welcome too. The dual DIGIC 4 image processors in the Mark II are likely to be replaced by the latest DIGIC 8 image processor, seeing burst shooting speeds increase beyond 10fps - maybe somewhere between 11-12fps. The new image processor could also help out with AF tracking - something the existing model lags behind on compared to its newer rivals. The Canon EOS 7D Mark III should also see the inclusion of touchscreen functionality on the rear vari-angle display to real take advantage of Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF system for Live View. What about video? Canon's been reticent to include 4K capture on a string of new cameras with the exception of the EOS 5D Mark IV, but to compete with rivals, the EOS 7D Mark III really needs this feature to compete. Of course, it's possible that Canon will focus elsewhere and will kill off the EOS 7D line, as has been reported. Canon EOS 90DCanon EOS 80D. Image credit: Canon The EOS 80D is now over three years old, and Canon's mid-range DSLR portfolio could do with a shot in the arm. Predicted specs: 32MP APS-C sensor | Dual DIGIC 8 image processors | 4K video and Dual Pixel CMOS AF There have been rumblings of Canon developing a 32MP sensor for some time, and a model like the Canon EOS 90D would be a logical recipient. The EOS 80D has been with us since the start of 2016 and while it's a fine camera for the enthusiast – or well-heeled beginner – it looks a little dated next to current rivals. There's no 4K video, for example, and the autofocus system is outgunned by Nikon's offerings. A slightly larger display with a higher resolution would be very welcome when you consider what's on offer elsewhere too. Rumored specs include Dual Pixel CMOS AF (a near-certainty), together with weather resistance, 10fps burst shooting and dual SD-type card slots.
Nikon Z1 or Z3With the full-frame Z6 (above) currently the cheapest model in the Z system, rumors of something even more junior are heating up Predicted specs: APS-C sensor | Z mount | No 4K video | No viewfinder but tilting LCD Nikon's Z system currently has two camera options, and the Z6 is the most junior of these. That may well have drawn many full-frame DSLR users across to mirrorless for the first time, but if Nikon is to entice a broader audience, a cheaper alternative is would be a sensible idea. So, the rumors of a Nikon Z1 or Nikon Z3 that have been with us for some time are starting to look more credible. Indeed, there were some rumblings of an entry-level model quite recently, but this appeared to us a little more than a convincing Photoshop job. The big question is exactly how a new entry-level model will be different from the Z6. It may, for example, maintain a full-frame sensor, although it might be fitted with an APS-C alternative to bring it into a new price category. Images that were reportedly filed as part of a patent show that Nikon may plan to drop the viewfinder from such a model, which makes sense as it's not a critical part of a camera and often something that's omitted from cheaper mirrorless cameras. This would also make the model a lot smaller and more attractive to those who want to travel light. Whatever happens, we can't wait to see where Nikon takes the Z system next. Nikon Z9We think we could see at flagship Z9 full-frame mirrorless camera before the year is up Predicted specs: 61MP sensor | Z mount | 6K video recording | 5.76 million-dot viewfinder | Twin card slots The Nikon Z7 is one of our favourite cameras right now, for many reasons. Yet, much like Canon's EOS R, it's perhaps not quite the flagship full-frame mirrorless camera many were expecting. If we look at Sony's A7R IV and A9 models, for example, and Panasonic's upcoming S1H, we can see it's not quite at the top of the tree for pixel count, video specs or burst shooting. And rumors of a more pro-end Z series model, possibly called the Z9 or Z8, have been steadily building as soon as the initial excitement of the Z6 and Z7 had died down a little. But will it be a sports-focused camera with a more modest sensor resolution or a megapixel beast? Our money is on the latter for two reasons. First, releasing a camera with an autofocus system that's on a par with Sony's Real Time Tracking technology – ie, a camera totally at home shooting action – is going to take some work. Sony is, after all, on its fourth generation of mirrorless camera, while Nikon's Z system hasn't even celebrated its first birthday. Some may suspect Nikon will have a suitable sports-focused mirrorless camera in time for the 2020 Olympic Games, but it's unlikely to have a native lens selection to match before then. So, it's far more likely that, at least for this particular audience, the company is focusing on bringing this kind of improvement to a DSLR update to the D5 – and there's more on what we think of that below. Second, with the arrival of the A7R IV, we know a modern 61MP full-frame sensor exists. It's quite possible that such a model would use a variation of this sensor, given that we know Sony supplies sensors to countless other manufacturers for their own products. We reckon a high-resolution Z9 camera would arrive with stronger video specs than the Z6 and Z7, potentially even matching the Panasonic S1H in being capable of shooting 6K footage, although this would also require beefier processing power and better heat dissipation among other things. We'd also love to see the same kind of 5.76 million-dot electronic viewfinder as we have inside the likes of the Panasonic S1 and S1R, as this is a noticeable step up on the (still very good) 3.69 million-dot finders Nikon fitted its Z6 and Z7. Nikon D760A gentle upgrade over the ageing D750 would strengthen Nikon’s FX offerings Predicted specs: Full-frame 36.3MP sensor | 4K video recording | Tilting touchscreen While the Z6 and Z7 have grabbed the headlines over the last year, we don't expect Nikon to forget its DSLR heritage. Over the last three years or so, the D750 has become a renowned and inexpensive full-frame choice in Nikon’s stable, but it could really use an update to compete with a number of more recent full-frame offerings. With the arrival of the D850 with an impressive 45.4MP resolution, could we see the D760 make use of the 36.3MP sensor found in the outgoing D810 and replace the current 24MP chip? Or could it get the same 24.5MP sensor as the Z6? The D750’s maximum 1/4,000sec shutter speed is an understandable compromise to help it to be more reasonably priced, but a compromise regardless. A high shutter speed of 1/8000sec might be on the cards then. It wouldn’t be likely that such a camera would launch without 4K video recording, especially after the 4K-enabled D500, D850 and D5. It’s also likely that it will have a tilting display like the D750, but Nikon would probably add touchscreen control too. Finally, don't forget Nikon will introduce its SnapBridge connectivity as well.
Nikon D6Nikon's flagship DSLR could get a midlife tweak Predicted specs: Full-frame 20MP sensor | New EXPEED image processor| 14fps burst shooting Nikon launched the D5 back at CES in 2016, and rather than seeing a 'S' update that Nikon tends to do with its flagship camera every two years, we think Nikon might skip this and release an all-new D6 model. So what are we likely to see? That's hard to say at the moment, but NikonRumors.com stated last year that the D6 would be available for testing in February of this year. We think the resolution should remain the same at 20MP, but a new EXPEED image processor could bring a number of improvements - we can't imagine Nikon would be able to extend the maximum ISO range of ISO3,280,000 found on the D5, but the improved processing power should see improved noise handling. Burst shooting could also be boosted slightly - the D5 can shoot at 12fps with full AF and metering, so we could see a performance bump to 13 or 14fps. While the 153-point AF system in the D5 is perhaps the most advanced autofocus systems going, we expect Nikon to improve on this even further. We might also see some very subtle tweaks to the handling as well, but we shouldn't see a huge shift in button placement. New Nikon S-series lensesNikon 14-24mm f/2.8, 24mm f/1.8 and 20mm f/1.8 mock-up lenses. Lots of new lenses for the Z-series cameras are due this year What we know: At least four more lenses this year and three in 2020. As with any manufacturer that has just launched a new camera system, Nikon's main challenge now is to introduce many new compatible lenses – and fast. The company has already released optics that cover some of the most popular focal length/aperture combinations, such as the Z 24–70mm f/2.8 S, Z 85mm f/1.8 S and Z 50mm F1.8 S, and this year will also welcome a 24mm f/1.8 lens that was initially scheduled for a 2020 release. We'll also be getting the 70-200mm f/2.8 optic, together with the beefy, manual-focus 58mm f/0.95 Noct that was announced at the very start of the series. Next year, Nikon plans to release 20mm f/1.8, 50mm f/1.2 and a 14-28mm f/2.8 lenses among others, and has already started showing off mockups at various shows.
Sony Alpha A7S IIIRumors of an A7S III, and update to Sony's video-focused full-frame mirrorless A7S II camera, continue to grow Predicted specs: 20MP+ sensor allowing for 6K video | Joystick AF control | Z-series battery Is there a camera more anticipated than the Sony A7S III? The Alpha A7S II broke new ground at the time of its release, appealing to videographers who required excellent 4K footage and high-level control, together with low-light shooters who appreciated the more modest pixel count, low noise and wide dynamic range not offered by other mirrorless cameras at the time. Since its release, Sony has given us all manner of other mirrorless Alpha models, from the enthusiast-focused A6400 through to the hugely popular (and rightly so) Alpha A7 III and the most recent 61MP Alpha A7R IV. The latter marks the start of the fourth generation of A7 models – so how come we're still on the Mark II here? There's clearly massive demand for one, and we can predict many specs and features from those in models released since the A7S II. We don't see any call for a sensor resolution beyond 12MP, although if the camera breaks into 6K video recording – as Panasonic's upcoming S1H will – it will need 20MP at the very least. Even if the model is capped at 4K video recording, we do expect a new sensor that performs to a higher standard than before, given the company's expertise in sensor design and build. Handling refinements will no doubt include a dedicated AF joystick, AF-On button and touchscreen interface, all missing from the A7S II but introduced in subsequent models. The model is also highly likely to get a Z-series battery with much higher battery life than the NP-FW50 found inside the A7S II. The biggest improvements should be seen in video performance. With Panasonic's Lumix GH5S, S1R and S1 models offering a wealth of advanced video features, we'd be disappointed if Sony didn't match or better these. The Alpha A7S II can record 4K 4:2:0 8-bit video, but could we see this increase to 4:2:2 10-bit like the GH5S? Could we see 4K capture at 60/50p possible as well? It would be surprising if not. Sony Alpha A7000With the A6400 now with us, what might a more senior A7000 bring to the mirrorless party? Predicted specs: 26MP APS-C sensor | Improved AF | Design similar to the Alpha A9 Sony has shown full-frame users a lot of attention in recent years, and this has left its A6000-series looking a little unloved. The A6000, A6300 and A6500 can all still be bought brand new, as as each camera had a solid set of specs to begin with, all three are still a respectable choices in their price categories. The company finally showed the line some love with the most recent A6400, which technically replaces the A6300 and has a very capable performance to recommend it, but it's fair to say it wasn't quite the A7000 that everyone was hoping for. So what might the A7000 feature? A 'baby' Alpha A9, with the A7000 camera borrowing many of the features of the flagship camera that would then be distilled into a camera based around an APS-C sensor. This is something that Nikon has done with its D5 and D500 DSLR models. Rumors suggest that it matches and in some aspects exceeds the performance of the Fujifilm X-T3, with better AF and in-body image stabilization, while it will match the 20fps burst shooting speed of the Alpha A9. As for the sensor, Sony's just updated the database of sensors it manufactures, which includes a back-illuminated (BSI) 26MP APS-C sensor, which would be a good fit for the new camera. There's also talk of the Alpha A7000 using a 32MP APS-C sensor as well. Sony has made great changes to its autofocusing systems in recent generations of camera too, and while the 425-point phase-detect AF system inside the A6500 is still a cracking performer, the eventual update will likely bring speed improvements and additional AF points to form a denser array, with better tracking capabilities. Design-wise, it's likely the new camera will feature a similar DSLR inspired look to Sony's full-frame cameras, with a raised and centralised electronic viewfinder.
Fujifilm X-Pro3Fujifilm X-Pro2. image credit: Fujifim The X-T2 got a new sibling in the X-T3, so where's the X-Pro2's update? Predicted specs: 26.1MP back-illuminated X-Trans CMOS sensor | X-Processor 4 | Even better AF with eye detection The X-Pro3 is perhaps the most anticipated camera from Fujifilm right now. The fact that it's been with us for quite some time, and the recent updates to the X-T series in the shape of the X-T100, X-T30 and X-T3, mean that a switch in focus back to the X-Pro line would be as logical as it would be welcome. While Fujifilm has kept the model fresh through a slew of firmware updates, these can't address the hardware side of things. So we expect the latest 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor Pro engine, together with boosts to the autofocus system and burst rate at the very least. We'd also love to see Fujifilm drop the ISO dial within the shutter speed dial as it's just too fiddly, and it would be welcome to have a tilting rear display, although Fujifilm does need to keep the line different from the X-T range, whose models offer this. When will it show up? The strongest rumors right now claim the model will be announced later this year, around September or October, and that it's already been registered for wireless communication (which is standard for upcoming models, albeit under a code name).
Fujifilm X-H2With the arrival of the X-T3 and the medium-format GFX models, the X-H1 is looking a little outdated. Predicted specs: 26.1MP back-illuminated X-Trans CMOS sensor | X-Processor 4 | Vastly improved AF system with stronger Face and Eye detection The X-H1 might still hold a handful of charms over its X-series siblings – sensor-based image stabilization, for example, and better support for longer and heavier lenses – but it's really starting to show its age now. Time for a reboot? We think it's worth Fujifilm giving an X-H2 it a shot, particularly when you consider the wealth of technology that's been gifted to all the Fujifilm cameras that have arrived since the X-H1 was launched. So, a newer sensor and processing partnership, stronger autofocus with the same improvements to face and eye detection, and maybe even a viewfinder more in line with the 5.76 million-dot beauty we saw inside the GFX 100? It could be the case that the X-H1 was too niche a camera to attract too much love, and with the X-T line recently updated and the GFX series to populate, there's not enough call for a model between the two. We still think the X-H1 is a great camera – but we'd love to see what Fujifilm could do with a sequel.
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark IIIThe Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is the odd one out in the OM-D range, so can we expect an update soon? Predicted specs: 20MP Micro Four Thirds sensor | Core features to remain the same | 4K video We've seen updates in the shape of the OM-D E-M1 Mark II and OM-D E-M10 Mark III, which just leaves the OM-D E-M5 Mark II to get refreshed in the OM-D series. We think that for this enthusiast mirrorless camera, Olympus will ditch the 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and replace it with the 20MP chip used by the OM-D E-M1 Mark II. The fact that company opted to use a 20MP sensor in its most recent OM-D E-M1X model lends further support to this idea. We'd expect to see 4K video capture and maybe the excellent 5-axis image stabilization get a tweak to deliver 7-stop compensation like the OM-D E-M1X. Focusing could also get a bump up to 121 points. Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm f/4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO plus six further lensesOlympus has already confirmed that it's working on the M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm f/4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO, and this should be with us some time next year. The lens is set to follow the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x and Nikon AF-S 200-400mm f/4G ED VR II in having an integrated teleconverter. The company also updated its roadmap earlier this year to show that it will have seven further lenses on the way. While the focal lengths and specs of these have not been disclosed, the company confirmed that four of these – two telephoto zooms, one wide zoom and one standard zoom – would fall under its high-end 'Pro' label. These are set to be joined by a high-magnification zoom and super-telephoto zoom lenses.
Panasonic's new lensesImage credit: Panasonic A sizeable collection of lenses to support the new S1R and S1 cameras is on its way Predicted specs: At least ten new lenses released throughout 2020 Having just launched the S1R and S1, two full-frame mirrorless cameras in a brand new S system, and then followed it up by the 6K-capable S1H, Panasonic is entitled to lay low for a while. Yet, the promise of ten new lenses to be released before the year is up shows there's little chance of that happening. The company has already confirmed the Lumix S 24-105mm f/4 Macro O.I.S, S PRO 50mm f/1.4 and S PRO 70-200mm f/4 O.I.S optics, but a roadmap shown at the S1R/S1 launch reveals that it will focus its attention on 24-70mm f/2.8, 70-200mm f/2.8 and 16-35mm f/4 options. The promise of at least seven further lenses on top of that leaves plenty of space for interesting primes, potentially some with particularly wide apertures. 1.4x and 2x teleconverters are also set to arrive at some point in the year and 2020 should bring two fixed-focal length lenses in addition to a macro and super telephoto optic. This system may just be getting started, but knowing how prolific Panasonic has been with its G series cameras gives us plenty of hope that it will flourish in little time.
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| Forget Windows, Linux or MacOS: Our choice of the best alternative operating systems Posted: 15 Aug 2019 09:39 AM PDT If you're fed up with Windows, Linux, or macOS, you'll want to know if there's a great alternative desktop operating system that's worth using. While there are no absolute definitive answers here – everyone's use case is different, after all – we've discovered ten distinct examples that fall outside the usual bounds. Our list even includes a few true outsiders, independent operating systems built from the ground up which serve mainly to prove just how difficult it is to create an entire functioning OS without a large number of brains working on it. Everything here can be tested reasonably within a virtual machine, so if something grabs your interest don't hesitate to download and give it a try.
ArcaOS is an operating system based on the last IBM release for OS/2. While OS/2 barely survives as a legacy system, even after being extended for a while as eComStation, ArcaOS is still being actively developed with Spanish and German language editions expected to be released in the next update. ArcaOS includes a robust Unix compatibility subsystem, featuring a variety of ported OSS Linux apps and some drivers, but still features the OS/2 Workplace Shell. ArcaOS is a 32-bit OS that runs on the x86 processor architecture, so should be compatible with some particularly old PCs. Though it's native file system is JFS, it can still work with FAT12, FAT16, or FAT32 formating. There are two editions available: Personal, which retails for $129 per license, and Commercial, which retails at $229 per license though volume discounts are available. The personal edition includes 6-months support and maintenance, while the commercial edition includes one-year of priority support and maintenance. We're a bit sad that BeOS didn't take off. A stylish multitasking OS that introduced a whole host of features that Windows, Linux and macOS would later adopt for their own, BeOS was a true multimedia innovator that left the market with a whimper when its rights were sold to Palm in 2001. Despite being closed source, the spirit of BeOS lives on in the form of Haiku, an open source re-implementation which began development immediately after Be's demise, and it has been developed since. Built as open source software from the ground up but designed to be backward-compatible with its classic quarry, Haiku follows BeOS' lead in its entirely modular design, allowing different components of the OS to be developed concurrently. It last saw a major release over three years ago, but you can try nightly builds to test out current developments. It's worth playing with just for the cleanness of its desktop, and there are working web browsers and media players, although it's still rather experimental and many of the features of BeOS haven't quite been fully realized as yet.
Linux, as you may know, is a ground-up reinterpretation of UNIX. ReactOS does the same for the Windows NT architecture upon which all modern Windows versions are based. It's completely open source, using no proprietary Windows code, yet ReactOS is designed to be (and in some cases actually is) compatible with Windows drivers and applications. Your mileage may vary – it's certainly not going to play nice with high-end games or software, and ReactOS isn't quite up to the Windows 10 level yet. It's currently aiming at full compatibility with Windows Server 2003. So it's clearly a bit behind the times, but ReactOS does have its uses. Incorporating parts of noted Windows emulator Wine, it runs LibreOffice, Firefox, Opera and more quite happily, and can even manage (earlier) commercial applications like Adobe Photoshop. Given that it's free, it's certainly worth a test to see if any of your older business-critical applications are compatible – setting up workstations without Windows licensing is a tempting prospect, although we can't vouch for its resistance to attacks.
A ridiculous amount of business software relies on MS-DOS, even to this day. We're still seeing bespoke, newly-developed text-mode apps that run directly from the shell, probably because the complexity and potential for disaster that graphical interfaces add to the mix is not worth the risk in situations that demand 100% uptime. That business-critical software may rely on MS-DOS, but it doesn't have to know you're actually running FreeDOS. It's an entirely compatible but completely free and open source remake of DOS that can handle just about everything its predecessor can do. That does, of course, mean no multitasking, no protected mode, no GUI, but it'll run your games and can even manage Windows 3.1 as long as you're running it in standard mode. As you might expect, it's not a static recreation of the final commercial DOS release in 1995, and indeed hasn't been static since FreeDOS first emerged in 1998. In fact, FreeDOS remains in active development, and features a number of integrated improvements compared to its rather archaic ancestor.
We're cheating a little, here, seeing as Chrome OS is built upon the Linux kernel, but it would be a shame to ignore Google's operating system on a technicality. Besides, when using Chrome OS you essentially run an expanded version of the Chrome browser and nothing else. Yes, you can drop to a terminal if you know how, but the desktop itself is a pure feat of HTML5 wrangling. It's testament to the maturity of the web that there's not a huge amount you can't do with Chrome OS, at least as long as you know where to look online. And it's not an OS that's exclusive to Chromebooks, either – you can build a version of Chromium OS (the open source development from which Google gleans its final code) on top of Ubuntu 14.4 then install it on your own hardware. One of the more professionally assembled operating systems on this list, Chrome OS is good for an experiment, and a solid choice if you're handing a laptop to someone who's likely to break any other OS. But perhaps it's a bit limited for production use.
While Linux is a recreation of UNIX, FreeBSD is more of a continuation. It was initially developed by students working from a Research Unix source license obtained by the University of California Berkeley – the 'BSD' bit stands for Berkeley Software Distribution. The only reason it's not called BSD Unix is that pesky trademark and licensing gremlin. The OS runs on its own kernel, and all of its key components have been developed as part of a single whole. Linux, on the other hand, is just the kernel; the rest of it is supplied by third parties so it lacks BSD's overall coherency. This is a highly complete and very reliable operating system, perfect both for server applications and desktop use. That said, it doesn't come with a GUI by default – the X-window system is thankfully straightforward to install, and there are ports of Linux window managers like Gnome and KDE available. One final note: BSD forms the core of perhaps the most polished and stable desktop operating system out there in macOS, so you know you're in good hands here.
Sun Microsystems' SunOS – which evolved into the rechristened Solaris – began as a proprietary UNIX distribution designed to support Sun's SPARC processors. Its hardware reach widened as it grew, and in 2005 Sun released the source code in the form of OpenSolaris, leading to advanced community development. And then Oracle purchased Sun, renamed the OS once more to Oracle Solaris, and decided to cease source releases, effectively closing the source once again. That's a long story made much shorter, but it's a good explanation of exactly what Solaris offers: long development, a period of community improvement, and the backing of a large tech company that makes it perfect for systems with high demand and support requirements. You can download and use it for free, although the license terms state that you'll need a support contract from Oracle if you wish to use it commercially. Solaris installs with a version of the GNOME desktop by default, and there's built-in support for Linux binaries if you need to extend it further.
Whether the extreme religious doctrine behind it interests you or not, our final selection is an interesting example of a completely independent, unique OS. It's been made and maintained with extreme dedication by one man, Terry A. Davis, over the course of ten years. TempleOS – programmed entirely using Davis' own language, the excellently named HolyC, which you also use to interact with its shell – deliberately includes no networking and absolutely no hardware support beyond that which forms the core PC system. So what's the point? TempleOS has been built from the ground up with what seems like no hang-ups on existing operating systems. The entire thing is hyperlinked, meaning you can quickly burrow down to the source of a program just as easily as you can find its dependencies, and it's super-quick; there's no paging, so the whole OS gets up and running within a second or two. It's unlikely you'll be able to use TempleOS for anything solid, and Davis' well-documented mental health struggles haven't helped its standing in the community. But it includes a huge number of interesting ideas, particularly the blurring of the division between document and program, which could impact more traditional operating systems. Check out Davis' quick tour of the OS below to see what it's all about in more detail. Gone but not forgotten: other Operating SystemsIt's worth noting that there have been a number of other operating systems that were previously popular but have since been discountinued. One of the most famous of which is AmigaOS, used in Amiga personal computers during the 1990's and which had a reputation for solid stability. However, here are a couple more than you may or may not have come across before now. 9. eComStationOS/2 may not have set the world on fire, but it actually maintained a decent industrial and commercial install base long after its desktop aspirations died. eComStation was a derivative OS that uses classic OS/2 technologies on modern hardware. Much like its ancestor it's been developed with security and stability in mind for commercial applications. We see the claim 'zero downtime' repeated all over the place, and while it's theoretically possible to lock up your hardware with the wrong application, this is something that could have been a real killer feature. There's a host of open source software ported to eComStation including Firefox, OpenOffice, VLC and more, and it's capable of running DOS, Java and OS/2 applications. You almost certainly don't need it, but if there's something system-critical and OS/2-only that your business relies on, running this on bare metal is a much more reliable idea than setting up a VM. As eComStation hasn't been updated for some years, if you're looking for OS/2 support and development it might be best to look at ArcaOS in the above list. 10. Syllable DesktopDeveloped between 1994 and 2001, AtheOS – initially planned as a clone of AmigaOS but later following its own path – was the work of a lone Norwegian programmer, Kurt Skauen. After Skauen abandoned the project, its GPL-licensed source code was picked up by the community and Syllable Desktop was born. The majority of it is composed of unique code, although certain components have been pulled from the vast library of open source Linux programs; there's also a Server version, which is more traditionally Linux. Syllable's key selling point – ignoring the fact that it's free – is its speed and lightness. The creators recommend a Pentium CPU with 32MB of RAM, which should give you an idea of how lightweight it is. Slap this on a modern PC and you'll likely never have seen an OS so quick. Syllable does lack the ports that make other indie operating systems attractive, though it contains a number of native apps for web browsing, email, VNC and more. We're not entirely positive that it's still active – the last official update was some time in 2012 – but if there's a very, very old PC you need to resurrect with reasonably modern system architecture, try this. 11. SkyOSThe development of SkyOS has sadly been halted, but it's still worth looking at as an example of an OS constructed from scratch. Developed initially as an open source project by coder Robert Szeleney, SkyOS was based on concepts gleaned from other platforms but didn't originally borrow their code. That said, a few components are based on other packages – there's no sense, for example, developing an entirely new compiler when GCC already exists, and the SkyFS filesystem is forked from OpenBFS. Later in its life, Szeleney appears to have experimented with a version of SkyOS built on top of a Linux kernel in an attempt to help with driver compatibility. The source was closed midway through its life, and Szeleney continued development based on feedback from a popular (paid) public beta program. Unfortunately the struggle to keep up with ever-diversifying computing standards became too much for the lone coder, and development was halted in 2009, with the most recent beta made publicly available in 2013. It's obviously incomplete, and not suitable for any kind of business environment, but as a curio to run within a VM it's very interesting.
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| Best CPU cooler 2019: top CPU coolers for your PC Posted: 15 Aug 2019 09:31 AM PDT What’s cooler than being cool? That’s right, keeping your PC components ice cold. Before you go out to find more exciting components like the best graphics cards to soup up your rig, you have to seriously consider picking out the best CPU cooler first, as you’ll need it to build the best gaming PC you can. After all, keeping your CPU at a low temperature will increase your computer’s performance, not to mention, longevity. The best CPU coolers will come in every shape, size and even price point in 2019, but finding the perfect cooler for your build depends on your processor, your budget and your overclocking demands. Luckily, even if you’re trying to save some cash, you can still pick up one of the best CPU coolers, as many air coolers are extremely cheap these days. If you’ve got the cash, on the other hand, you also have the option to splurge on a high-end liquid cooler, taking your cooling performance to the next level. Regardless of what kind of CPU cooler you need, we’ll help you find the most ideal one. We gathered some of the best CPU coolers on the market, using our PC component expertise. And, because we’ve tested these coolers ourselves, you know these heat dissipators will be worth your money. Plus, with our price comparison tool, you’ll know you’re getting a killer deal every time. Image Credit: Noctua The Noctua NH-D15 is one of the best CPU coolers you can buy in 2019 simply because it performs just as well as – if not better – than some liquid coolers, while costing a fraction of the price. You might not be too familiar with Noctua’s name, as they’re relatively small in the CPU cooler world, but its business is revolves around designing coolers, so you know that when you buy one of their products, you’re getting a product by people who really know their craft. On top of delivering a fantastic cooling performance, the NH-D15 is nearly silent as well. Cooler Master’s Hyper 212 CPU RGB cooler is back with a vengeance, and sporting a sleek gun-metal black brushed aluminum finish to boot. It’s not only jet black look that’s upping this CPU cooler’s cool factor – though it does help what with that aluminum top cover and nickel plated jet black fins to complete the look. It’s also easily one of the best CPU coolers on the market with its stacked fin array that ensures least airflow resistance, four heat pipes that boast Direct Contact Technology to better battle the heat, and a wide speed range for fine-tuning cooling performance and silent operation. Image Credit: Noctua Noctua is an Austrian manufacturer that does one thing, and one thing only: make the best CPU coolers and fans. What this means is that even though the Noctua NH-L9 is tiny, it is still more than capable of insane cooling with no compromises. This is a fantastic cooler for anyone with a smaller build, or even if you’re using a ton of large components, and you’re not comfortable with liquid cooling. Image Credit: Corsair Corsair has enjoyed a position at the top of the liquid cooling game for a while now, and the H100i Pro continues the trend. Not only is this thing obviously strapped in RGB lighting, but it also boasts impressive cooling performance, thanks to Corsair’s unique and powerful fans, which you can control through the iCue software. All these combined, and you’ve got among the few best CPU coolers that not only performs well, but that is also completely customizable. With the Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240P Mirage in your gaming rig, you won’t only end up playing for hours on end without worrying about thermal throttling or overheating. You might just an hour or so admiring your CPU, especially if you have one of those glass-window cases, as this CPU cooler is indeed hypnotically pretty. It’s mostly thanks to its transparent pump design that lets you see the impeller spinning while bathed in different RGB lighting, like a colorful spinning wheel at a funhouse. Performance-wise, it definitely deserves a spot in our best CPU coolers list, with its PPS+ glass fiber housing and nozzle that provides temperature and liquid resistance, EPDM rubber O-Ring that helps eliminate liquid emission, and a low-resistance radiator that increases flow rate, heat exchange efficiency and cooling performance. Image Credit: NZXT If you’re running one of the best processors, and you want to push it to the limit, you’ll need one of the best CPU coolers for overclocking, like the NZXT Kraken X72. Not only does it pack a gigantic radiator, but its high fan speeds ensure that cooling performance is top-notch all the time. And, because it’s 2019, it features addressable RGB and an infinite mirror design that looks amazing in any case. To top it all off, the NZXT Kraken X72 is backed by a 6-year warranty. Image Credit: Cooler Master There isn’t a single component that can’t be improved through RGB, and Cooler Master is well aware – jumping on the RGB bandwagon with the MasterLIquid ML 120R RGB. What’s more, it integrates some of the first addressable LEDs seen on a liquid cooler. This all-in-one liquid cooling solution isn’t just about aesthetics – it features an oxidation free pump and an efficient radiator. This means that not only will it last longer – but it’ll keep your CPU cooler, and all without giving up too much case real estate, which is why it’s made our best CPU coolers list. Image Credit: Arctic For less than 70 big ones in both US dollars and British sterling, the Arctic Liquid Freezer 120 is a deal you can’t pass up if you’re on the prowl for a liquid cooler that won’t break the bank. While it lacks the bells and whistles of pricier, more extravagant liquid coolers, like the NZXT Kraken, the Arctic Liquid cooler is enough to get you by, not to mention it’s still a massive step up from the classic fan and heatsink pairing. So, while you can’t expect RGB lighting or software – or even hardware-based fan control, the 120mm variant of the Arctic Liquid Freezer makes our best CPU coolers list as it will keep your system refrigerated at a (mostly) quiet volume.
Image Credit: Corsair Even if your budget will allow you to really go all-out on a serious liquid cooling solutions, if you have a smaller PC case, you’ll likely not have enough space. That’s where something like the Corsair Hydro H5 SF comes into play. Even on the smallest PC cases, you’re able to use this CPU cooler to keep your CPU chilled, even if you have some beastly overclocks happening. Plus, because it’s a closed loop, you don’t even need to worry about maintenance. Set it up, and let it do its thing – you won’t be disappointed. Image Credit: NoFan Rounding out our best CPU coolers list is the NoFan CR-95C. You’ve probably never heard of NoFan – unless you’re already neck deep into the rabbit hole that is silent PC assembly. The South Korean component company specializes in helping enthusiasts reach that 0dBA silent sweet spot. In doing so, of course, will severely limit your set-up in terms of power, with its CR-95C fanless solution being limited in compatibility to processors whose TDP fall below 95W. Still, the NoFan CR-95C is worth a shot if you want to build a low-power computer that completely blends into the background.
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| Ancestry DNA sale: the DNA testing kit gets a temporary $40 price cut Posted: 15 Aug 2019 09:30 AM PDT If you're interested in purchasing a DNA kit, then today is your lucky day. Ancestry is running a summer sale and discounting its best-selling DNA testing kit down to $59. That's a $40 discount and the best price we've seen for the genetic testing kit. See more offers with our best back to school sales of 2019: deals on laptops, tablets, smartwatches & more. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Xbox Project Scarlett release date, specs and games confirmed for Xbox Two Posted: 15 Aug 2019 09:22 AM PDT After years of speculation that a next-generation Xbox console is on its way, Microsoft finally announced the Xbox Project Scarlett during its big E3 2019 keynote conference in June of this year. We only have a few details on Microsoft's next-generation hardwar so far– even the moniker 'Project Scarlett' is a codename for now - but we do know it's coming, when it's coming, and a handful of the features and specs we can expect when it lands. Faster and more graphically advanced than its predecessors, Xbox Scarlett promises to be the most powerful games console in the world by the time it launches late in 2020 – even more so than the PS5, which is due to hit shelves around the same time. For comparison, if the Xbox One X is now the most advanced console on the market, Xbox Scarlett is meant to be four times as powerful (according to the reveal trailer below). “For us, the console is vital and central to our experience. A console should be designed, and built and optimized for one thing, and one thing only – gaming,” said Xbox boss Phil Spencer, showing the company's renewed commitment to making the very best games console it can first and foremost, after the mixed messaging of its flawed Xbox One launch. “This decisive moment of discovery is etched in your gaming history." “We on Team Xbox will always be dedicated to delivering the best new games for you to discover. This right now is the single most creative and energizing time in gaming history. Games and gamers can be a significant unifying force for the world.” Xbox Project Scarlett is looking to be an incredibly powerful home gaming machine, with custom built components from AMD, and an SSD drive at its heart allowing for innovative game development techniques. Here's everything we know so far about what we anticipate will later be known as the 'Xbox Two'. Xbox Project Scarlett: key facts
Xbox Project Scarlett internal hardware. (Image credit: Microsoft) Xbox Project Scarlett specsWith only a sizzle reel to go by, we don't yet know what the Xbox Project Scarlett will look like, let alone if it'll eventually be named the Xbox Two. But we do have a good idea of its internal hardware, and the Xbox Project Scarlett specs are already sounding quite special. Using custom-designed processor from AMD making use of Zen 2 and Navi architecture, Xbox Project Scarlett will be 4x more powerful than the Xbox One X. It'll be possible of running games at 120Hz frame rates, at potential 8K resolutions, while also showcasing fancy real-time ray-tracing tech. It's the works. An SSD will come as standard, as with the PS5, which will give it the option of using its storage system as virtual RAM, as well as lifting load time performance by a factor of 40x. That'll let developers stream in far more detailed worlds around a player. In terms of 'standard' RAM, the console will pack in a meaty GDDR6. Xbox Project Scarlett components. (Image credit: Microsoft) Though gamers are increasingly shifting their purchase preferences towards the convenience of digital downloads, Xbox Project Scarlett will also have a physical disk drive. Speaking to Eurogamer, Xbox's Head of Microsoft Games Studios Matt Booty said: "Yes, Scarlett will have an optical disc drive. I still have films at home on physical media - not many, but a few of my favourites. We know people have an attachment to buying games on disc, to building a collection." It's also likely that the new Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 that is available for pre-order right now and launching November 4 of this year will be the controller for this upcoming console. That could just be wishful thinking, but with the hyperbolic language surrounding this announcement, we would expect nothing less. Indeed, Microsoft has confirmed that all your current Xbox One accessories will work with Xbox Project Scarlett, including existing controllers and headsets. But we'd doubt that also includes the ill-fated Kinect motion tracker. Halo Infinite will be a Project Scarlett exclusive. (Image Credit: Microsoft) In addition, benchmark results have appeared online for an AMD ‘Flute’ system-on-a-chip (SoC), leading some to speculate that this could be the hardware that will power Xbox Project Scarlett. The benchmark results were spotted by a a Twitter user, and while we’re not sure what the purpose of the chip is, we know that Microsoft is working with AMD to produce a custom SoC that combines a processor and graphics card for the next Xbox – in the same way Sony is working with AMD on its custom Gonzalo SoC for the PlayStation 5. If these benchmark results are real, and the AMD Flute SoC is indeed going to power the Xbox Scarlett console, then it gives us an idea of the console's specifications and potential power level – something Microsoft has been rather cagey about so far. According to the benchmark results, the AMD Flute SoC will come with eight Zen 2 cores, 16 threads and SMT capability. Interestingly, the base clock speed of the Flute SoC is just 1.6GHz, which is pretty low these days, with a maximum boost of 3.2GHz. This suggests that the Flute SoC will be a low-power part for use in compact systems – such as a games console, and is similar to AMD’s Jaguar SoC which powered the Xbox One. While on paper the Flute SoC’s processor doesn’t sound too impressive – especially when compared to modern desktop PCs’ CPUs – it looks like the Flute CPU will be at least two times faster than previous-generation Jaguar SoCs, and will be a big upgrade over the dated 28nm Jaguar SoCs found in the original Xbox One and PS4. The Flute SoC is also expected to be 7nm, which will also bring power benefits. As a system-on-a-chip, the AMD Flute looks like it comes with a graphics processing unit (GPU) as well, though clues about the graphics capabilities are harder to find. Apparently, it will be based on ‘NAVI 10LITE’ – which has been mentioned before when unreleased AMD Navi GPUs showed up in a Linux driver. It’s possible that this is a ‘Lite’ version of the Navi 10 GPU, which will have reduced or limited specs compared to the full version, including lower CU (compute unit) counts. Having a lower CU count means the GPU will be less power-hungry, again suggesting that the AMD Flute SoC, if it does exist, is designed for a device where power efficiency is important – such as a games console. Finally, the benchmark results also suggest the engineering sample uses 16GB of memory – though the type of memory is not mentioned. It could mean that the Flute SoC shares 16GB of GDDR6 memory between the CPU and GPU, in a similar way to how the Xbox One X shares GDDR5 memory. So, does this mean we have a better idea of what the Xbox Scarlett’s specs will be? Well, there’s some compelling evidence, but remember that this is from a leaked benchmark, and we’re not sure if the AMD Flute SoC is going to be used in Xbox Scarlett – if the SoC even exits. It’s also worth noting that this AMD Flute is apparently an engineering sample, which means this may not be its final specifications – and that could change if (and it’s a very big if) it ends up in the Xbox Scarlett when the console launches late 2020. "I think the area that we really want to focus on next generation is frame rate and playability of the games," Spencer explained in an interview with Gamespot. "Ensuring that the games load incredibly fast, ensuring that the game is running at the highest frame rate possible." In addition Spencer went on to explain that Microsoft is aiming to get Project Scarlett games to run at 60 FPS in 4K, calling the challenge a "design goal". "This generation, we've really focused on 4K visuals and how we bring both movies through 4K Blu-ray and video streaming," Spencer explained. "And with Xbox One X allowing games to run at 4K visuals will make really strong visual enhancements next generation." Xbox Project Scarlett gamesHalo Infinite will has been confirmed to be an Xbox Project Scarlett launch title, bringing back the Master Chief for the franchises' first outing since 2015. It will have been five years at that point since a new mainline Halo game, so fans will be chomping at the bit for fresh Halo action. The Halo franchise is widely regarded as the original Xbox’s first must-play games, so the move to launch a next-gen with a Halo game is both symbolic and quite business-savvy on Microsoft’s part. To coincide with the announcement, Microsoft and the game's developer 343 Industries unveiled a new Halo Infinite trailer, available below: If Halo is not your thing you wont be wanting for games to play at launch though – especially if you're an existing Xbox player. Xbox Project Scarlett will be capable of three generations of backwards compatibility. So, as well as Scarlett-era games, it'll also play games from the Xbox One, the Xbox 360, and the very first generation of the Xbox.
Xbox Project Scarlett priceMicrosoft won't be pinned down on a price point quite yet – unsurprisingly, given what a sore spot the price of the Xbox One was for fans. At launch the original Xbox One cost a whopping $499 / £429 / AU$599, which was quickly reduced when Microsoft realised people weren't forking out. Price will inevitably be determined by the cost of the components going into the console: Xbox Scarlett is going to be a lot more powerful than either the Xbox One S or Xbox One X, and that could mean we're looking at an even higher price tag. The move towards streaming, however, may lead to smaller hard drives – or maybe even the option to buy without a hard drive at all – which would certainly cut down costs. Jason Ronald, director of the Xbox platform, gave only a vague reassurance when speaking to Windows Central, saying that Microsoft knew "what reasonable price points are for a console and kind of what customers expect about that". Xbox Project Scarlett release dateExpect to see the Xbox Project Scarlett console launch in the 'holiday' window of 2020. That's between October and December of 2020, and just in time for Christmas. It's exactly the same sort of launch period we're expecting Sony to have for its PS5, too. Santa's going to be a busy guy next year. We'll have more soon – hopefully including a specific release date rather than a launch window, and a real name for the console. Keep in mind that all the rumors pointed to there being two new Xbox consoles on the way, codenamed Anaconda and Lockhart, the former being high end (likely what we've seen here) and the latter being a cheaper, streaming-focused solution. Time will tell if that's still Microsoft's plan, but one thing's for certain – it's throwing down the gauntlet for Sony's PlayStation 5 to take on.
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