Apple : Google open-sources its privacy systems |
- Google open-sources its privacy systems
- The 4 coolest laptops of IFA 2019
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 now available, Galaxy Watch Active 2 up for pre-order
- The CIO’s guide to quantum computing
- Best HP laptops 2019: the top HP laptops we’ve seen and tested
- Job seeker data exposed in possible Monster.com breach
- England vs Italy live stream: how to watch today's Rugby World Cup warm-up online from anywhere
- Big data iPhone XR deals have never looked better in the run up to the iPhone 11
- Sony A9 II: does this leaked image show Sony's next full-frame mirrorless camera?
- Best free file recovery software 2019
- Fresh rumors that Canon will release a pro-level EOS R mirrorless camera emerge
- The best Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge deals in September 2019
- The new Sennheiser Momentum Wireless headphones are (almost) impossible to lose
- Red Dead Online: latest news, updates and multiplayer features
- Toshiba's 2020 TV line-up will include Alexa and Android TV
- The Best TV 2019: 10 big-screen TVs worth buying this year
- Best full-frame camera 2019: 10 advanced DSLRs and mirrorless cameras
- China set to launch its own cryptocurrency
| Google open-sources its privacy systems Posted: 06 Sep 2019 01:50 PM PDT Google is making things a bit easier for developers with the release of an open-source version of the differential privacy library that it uses to power some of its own products. Developers will now be able to use this library to build their own tools that can utilize aggregate data without the fear of revealing personally identifiable information. In a blog post announcing the new open-source differential privacy library, Google gives the example of how a health researcher may want to compare the average amount of time patients remain admitted in various hospitals in order to determine if there are differences in care. Before this would be difficult to do without jeopardizing the privacy of the patients involved.
Product manager of Google's privacy and data protection office, Miguel Guevara provided further details on how developers, businesses and government agencies can use its differential privacy library to gain greater insights from data, saying: “Whether you're a city planner, a small business owner, or a software developer, gaining useful insights from data can help make services work better and answer important questions. But, without strong privacy protections, you risk losing the trust of your citizens, customers, and users. Differentially-private data analysis is a principled approach that enables organizations to learn from the majority of their data while simultaneously ensuring that those results do not allow any individual's data to be distinguished or re-identified. This type of analysis can be implemented in a wide variety of ways and for many different purposes.” Differential privacy libraryAccording to Google, the current version Apache-licensed C++ differential privacy library focuses on giving developers access to features which are difficult to build from scratch. The library also includes many standard statistical functions such as think count, sum, mean, variance etc. that developers require to better analyze their data. The library itself even contains an additional library which developers can utilize for “rigorous testing” along with a PostgreSQL extension and several recipes to get them started. With the introduction of GDPR and other data protection regulations, working with personal data has become more difficult for businesses as they can now be held accountable for any data breaches or data leaks. However, Google has now given developers a useful tool which will allow them to build tools that can analyze personal data without compromising the privacy of the users whose data their working with. Interested developers can find the company's new differential privacy library on GitHub and begin using it to work with aggregate data today.
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| The 4 coolest laptops of IFA 2019 Posted: 06 Sep 2019 01:35 PM PDT With IFA 2019 drawing to a close in Berlin, Germany, it’s time to reflect on what we’ve seen announced and had a chance to test out at the show. In particular, we saw more than a few new laptops that excited us for the end of 2019 and beyond in computing. From the most graphically-powerful laptops we've ever seen to laptops shaped like Ultrabooks but bristling with the power of portable gaming machines, there are some rad laptops coming down the pipe. Here’s a brief look at the most exciting laptops from IFA 2019. Asus ProArt StudioBookWith an Nvidia Quadro RTX 6000 graphics processor (GPU) and an Intel Core i9 processor (CPU) inside, as well as a 15-inch, 4K Pantone-validated display with 120Hz refresh rate, Asus’s new pro-grade creators laptop is certainly set to be an incredibly powerful mobile workstation. Asus also has a 17-inch version of the laptop coming, complete with a four-sided NanoEdge display, the first of its kind with incredibly narrow bezels all around. These mega-powerful laptops will be available in October 2019, and pricing will be announced later – though with these kind of parts inside and out, don't expect them to be affordable. Razer Blade Stealth (Late 2019)The Razer Blade Stealth 13 (Late 2019) coming this month and starting at $1,499 (€1,679, about £1,250/AU$2,220) has an option for the most powerful graphics in an Ultrabook to date. The new “Late 2019” model can come fitted with an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 GPU and a 10th-Generation Intel CPU that finally make this Ultrabook a proper gaming laptop. Of course, this is not the entry-level version of the laptop, and as such will cost a pretty penny for the luxury of truly mobile PC gaming. However, this is an excellent sign of things to come, as clearly cramming hardcore-grade graphics into thin and light laptops is entirely possible. Lenovo Yoga C940The new Yoga C940 – succeeding the C930 – has the usual 360-degree hinge, but the speaker within has been improved and redesigned. Lenovo calls this feature the "Rotating Sound Bar," and it now offers Dolby Atmos audio through the drivers. Lenovo also equipped this new laptop with one of the first available 10-nanometer Intel processors, leading to purportedly massive gains in battery life. And, to sweeten the pot even further, a new 15-inch model with Nvidia GTX 1650 graphics is here. The Yoga C940 launches this October starting at $1,249 (about £1,040, AU$1,850). Acer Predator Triton 500The new flagship, 15-inch gaming laptop from Acer is the first to market with a 300Hz refresh rate in its display. This means that the screen can reliably display up to 300 frames per second without any visible screen tearing or other artifacts – a boon for esports champs that need to be faster than ultra-fast. Acer will release the Predator Triton 500 in the EMEA region this November, with a North American release later in December. The gaming laptop will start at $2,799 (about £2,320, AU$4,140). This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 now available, Galaxy Watch Active 2 up for pre-order Posted: 06 Sep 2019 12:13 PM PDT At the tail end of IFA 2019, Samsung has announced when its newest devices will go on sale or be up for preorder in the US. Spoiler: they’re all in September. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S6, the company’s newest premiere tablet, is on sale today starting at $649. The device is aimed at the prosumer market to rival the iPad Pro with its top-tier specs, upgraded S Pen stylus and refined DeX desktop computing experience. Plus, if you pick up the device before September 22, you can get 50% off the Book Cover Keyboard, bringing the price down to $89. Sadly, we still don’t know when the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 will be available to buy - but starting now through September 26, you can preorder it on Samsung.com and other online retailers. The fitness-oriented smartwatch starts at $279 for the 40mm version, while the larger 44mm option is $299. Unlocked versions of several Samsung midrange and budget A Series phones will go on sale on September 20th. These include the Samsung Galaxy A50, the Galaxy A20, and the Galaxy A10e phones, which will be sold for $349, $249, and $179, respectively. Of course, most eyes are on the newly-refined, soon-to-be-launched Samsung Galaxy Fold, so it’s no surprise that other IFA 2019 news from the phone giant is a bit less exciting in comparison. But still good news if you’ve been waiting for the company’s next smartwatch and pro tablet.
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| The CIO’s guide to quantum computing Posted: 06 Sep 2019 11:41 AM PDT Quantum computing technology is shrouded in myth and mystique – which is understandable when you consider the clichés bandied around when discussing it: “quantum computers will operate faster than the speed of light”. “Quantum computers will replace all conventional systems”. “Quantum computing will render all security encryption algorithms obsolete”. CIOs have been inundated with hype, but must learn to cut through the noise to understand the disruptive power of quantum computing and its potential applications in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and data science. While quantum solutions might well revolutionise the entire IT industry with considerable economic, industrial, and societal impacts, they won’t operate at light-speed, replace current systems, or render all security encryptions redundant overnight. Quantum computing should not, however, be ignored. It holds enormous potential in areas of chemistry, optimisation, ML and AI, and will be able to address key opportunities in these areas which are currently inaccessible due to classic computer architecture limitations. What is quantum computing?Quantum computing is a type of non-classical computing based on the quantum state of subatomic particles. It differs fundamentally from classic computers, which operate using binary bits. Quantum computing uses quantum bits, or qubits. One qubit can represent a range of values, which is known as ‘superpositioning’. Superpositioning grants quantum computers speed and parallelism, since each individual qubit can represent a quantitative solution to a problem. Qubits can also be linked together (known as “entanglement”). Each entangled qubit adds two additional dimensions to the system. Combined with superposition, quantum computers are capable of processing a massive number of possible outcomes at once. The number of high-quality qubits necessary to make a viable quantum computer depends on the problem. The ability for a quantum computer to outperform a classical computer is called “quantum supremacy.” Experts forecast that quantum supremacy will become a reality within a matter of years for a limited number of computing problems. Potential applications of quantum computingSince general-purpose quantum computing is unlikely to ever make economic sense, applications for the technology will be narrow and highly focused. Nevertheless, the technology does hold the potential to revolutionise certain industries. Quantum computing could enable breakthroughs in:
The risk of ignoring quantum computingWhile many aspects of quantum computing’s future remain uncertain, such as the physics, materials, and controls, multinational organisations such as IBM, Google, Intel and Microsoft are already investing heavily in the hardware and software. CIOs should consider quantum computing technology as a competitive advantage, as new quantum-inspired algorithms could produce innovative solutions and novel approaches to product development. It could also significantly reduce time to market, as well as optimising customer delivery. Moreover, ignoring quantum computing may well place intellectual property (IP) and patent portfolios at risk: early adopters will enjoy a competitive advantage by patenting quantum-inspired innovations within specific domains. For example, a competitor might develop a quantum-based solution to improve Monte Carlo simulations by 1,000%, or a pharmaceutical company might significantly reduce the time to market for new drugs. The realities of quantum computingWe are currently living through quantum winter – that is, the risk that hype outpaces development, potentially having a negative impact on perceptions and investments. Media hype is raising awareness while simultaneously setting unrealistic timeline and capability expectations. This level of hype is guaranteed to give way to disillusionment, which is particularly dangerous for quantum computing, as it requires sustained and focused investment for the long term. As the fundamental physics of quantum computing remain in development, consistent results won’t appear for at least 5 to 10 years. Thus, any investments made in pursuit of quantum computing opportunities must pay off in monetisable discoveries. The required logistics for quantum computers are specific: environments must be cooled to .015 Kelvin, and processors must be placed in dilution refrigerators shielded to 50,000 times less than the earth’s magnetic field. It also requires calibrating multiple times every day. These maintenance conditions are not viable for the majority of organisations. Gartner recommends that organisations interested in quantum computing leverage quantum computing as a service (QCaaS) to minimise risk and contain costs. By 2023, 95% of organisations researching quantum computing strategies will utilise QCaaS. Overall, it remains safer to underinvest in the technology or to invest in skilled employees who can be fully productive as product managers in revenue-bearing areas. As quantum computing opportunities arise, these product managers will have the skills to address them. Gartner has identified surprising numbers of degreed quantum physicists in product management roles. CIOs should focus on business value, and expect results to be at least 5 years outBy 2023, 90% of enterprise quantum computing investments will engage quantum consulting organisations to help shape problems that can leverage quantum algorithms. Knowing how to identify and extract business value from a quantum computing initiative is a key skill to develop. CIOs should look for potential opportunities from quantum computing and be ready to help the business leverage them. These opportunities will need to be fully integrated with traditional IT, and will require new cross-collaboration from research scientists, computational data scientists and quantum data scientists. This new development paradigm is vital to the success of any quantum program.
Matthew Brisse is Research VP at Gartner. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Best HP laptops 2019: the top HP laptops we’ve seen and tested Posted: 06 Sep 2019 10:50 AM PDT Over the last few years, HP has been rolling out the best HP laptops we’ve ever seen to date. The company has been hard at work in rebuilding their reputation in the high-end laptops game, and it’s certainly looking like they’re succeeded. HP laptops are going through their own renaissance, thanks in large part to their line of Ultrabooks running on Windows 10, and they’re risen to the ranks of the best laptops in 2019. This isn’t surprising, as HP’s road to rebranding has resulted in some of the most stunning – not to mention, truly powerful – laptops we’ve ever seen. That includes the new HP Spectre x360 2019, for instance, with its gold trimming and high-resolution displays. This resurgence has also brought about the popular ‘privacy filter,’ christened Sure View, to prominence. It doesn’t seem like HP is slowing down any time soon, either. Cool new products like the HP Envy Wood are slated to hit the streets later in the year, expanding this best HP laptops list further. Of course, you need not wait until then, as there’s already a good number of HP laptops on this list to choose from. Image Credit: HP The HP Spectre x360’s 2019 refresh has only hurtled it to the top of our list of the best HP laptops to buy right now, touting a smart redesign that takes its look and performance to a new level. This gorgeous gem-cut 13-inch will draw admiring looks at whatever coffee shop you work in, while the powerful hardware will handle anything you throw at it, including strategy games. It even has the 4K display option, if you’re willing to splurge. Read the full review: HP Spectre x360 2019 Image credit: TechRadar There’s no denying that the HP Spectre x360 15-inch is dressed for success, from elegant gold trimming on a matte black finish to powerful innards that include an 8th-generation Intel chip, Nvidia GTX graphics and more than enough storage space most typical users will need. It’s undeniably one of the best HP laptops on the market, and you will be impressed by it the moment you behold that stunning 4K screen. If you’re looking to move to the Windows 10 environment, this is a fantastic alternative to MacBook Pros, but with a better gaming experience. Read the full review: HP Spectre x360 15T (2019) Image Credit: HP While it doesn’t exactly redefine the PC, the HP Spectre Folio does enough right things to merit a place among the best HP laptops you can buy in 2019. Clad front to back in leather, this 2-in-1 laptop is intended for the luxury buyers, as evidenced by its lofty price tag. Unfortunately, it’s not the fastest laptop out there. However, the fanless chip on board has enough juice to get you through your day-to-day workload, as long as you’re not expecting to get any serious video editing done. This is more for the professional taking a device between meetings. Read the full review: HP Spectre Folio Image credit: TechRadar The HP Chromebook 14 may not be as powerful as other Chromebooks, but this tiny laptop has a few aces up its sleeves, helping it secure a well-deserved spot among the best HP laptops. Those aces include striking a good balance between ample screen space and portability, as well as a surprisingly excellent keyboard and a decent trackpad. That’s without mentioning how vivid the display and how low its price tag is. Read the full review: HP Chromebook 14 Image credit: TechRadar We dubbed the EliteBook x360 1040 G5 as the “apex predator of the business world” in our review because, well, it is. It boasts many excellent features in its handsome-looking chassis, as well as plenty of ports to go around, including a port that works wonders and impressively audio. Simply, this HP laptop is an ideal match for the professional who demands seamlessness and power at work. It’s not the perfect machine, but it’s got plenty of features that make up for its flaws, making it among the best HP laptops on the market. Read the full review: HP EliteBook x360 1040 Don’t judge this budget gaming laptop by its cover. It’s modest design and poor quality chassis aside, the HP Omen 17 is one incredible gaming machine packed with excellent features. With its G-Sync display, solid speakers, and 4K gaming (if you’re ok with lower frame rates), this is one of the best HP laptops for gaming. Best of all, it offers great value at an affordable price. So if you don’t have the funds to splurge on a premium gaming laptop, you know you’ve got an option in this one. Read the full review: HP Omen 17 Thanks to its sleek, 13-inch design, this 2-in-1 is thinner 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 o. If you are interested in the latest AMD innards, this is a great choice. This HP beauty also 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) Image Credit: HP If you’ve been watching the laptop market as long as we have, you’ll have noticed that the best gaming laptops kind of get a bad rap because of their lack of mobility. However, HP has addressed this issue by packing plenty of new features that gaming laptops tend to lack. First, you can overclock the Omen X, which just means free performance – which will keep it at the top of the stack longer than competitors. For gamers, the HP Omen X is a no-brainer. Image Credit: HP For a second-tier laptop, you might be surprised to find so very few faults in the new HP Envy 13t 2019. This elegant beauty combines a premium design and premium internal components without costing you an arm and a leg, which makes it a terrific alternative for MacBook lovers looking to save money for their next computing investment. There are other things to love as well – the ultra-thin chassis, the tactile keyboard, and a battery that will outlast yours. Read the full review: HP Envy 13t 2019 Image Credit: HP The HP Spectre 13 is arguably one of the most stunning laptops we’ve ever seen or used. The ceramic white finish is beautifully complemented by a two-prong hinge design that’s extremely appealing as well as utilitarian. The Spectre 13 goes even further by packing some serious horsepower. It leverages the power of 8th-generation Intel Kaby Lake Refresh processors to outmatch the competition. It’s been discontinued on the HP site, but the HP Spectre 13 is still one of the best HP laptops this year. Search for it, as third-party retailers still sell it. Read the full review: HP Spectre 13
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| Job seeker data exposed in possible Monster.com breach Posted: 06 Sep 2019 10:30 AM PDT A security researcher has discovered an exposed web server online which contained resumes of job seekers from the recruitment site Monster. After further inspection, resumes and CVs for job applicants from 2014 to 2017 were found on the server, many of which included private information such as phone numbers, home addresses, email addresses and even applicants' prior work experience. At this time, it is still unclear as to how many files were exposed on the server but to put things in perspective, just one folder from May of 2017 contained thousands of resumes. In addition to resumes, immigration documentation for work, which Monster does not collect, was also discovered on the exposed server.
According to a statement from Monster's chief privacy officer Michael Jones, the server is not owned by the company itself and instead it belongs to an unnamed recruitment customer which the firm no longer works with. However, Monster did not provide the name of the recruitment customer when pressed by TechCrunch. Exposed serverAfter Monster was informed of the data leak, it notified the recruitment company regarding the issue and the exposed server has now been secured. However, while the data is no longer directly accessible from the exposed server, hundreds of resumes and other documents submitted by job seekers can still be found in search engines' cached results. Since it was a third party and not Monster who exposed the data, the company did not warn its users that their data had been exposed online. In fact, the company only admitted user data had been exposed after the security researcher who discovered the server informed TechCrunch of the matter. Monster tried to deflect responsibility for the data leak in a statement, saying: “Customers that purchase access to Monster’s data — candidate résumés and CVs — become the owners of the data and are responsible for maintaining its security. Because customers are the owners of this data, they are solely responsible for notifications to affected parties in the event of a breach of a customer’s database.” While Monster was not obligated to report the data leak to regulators, other companies have begun to proactively warn their users in situations where third parties are involved.
Via TechCrunch This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| England vs Italy live stream: how to watch today's Rugby World Cup warm-up online from anywhere Posted: 06 Sep 2019 09:44 AM PDT England go into their final warm-up game in Newcastle in great form following a 57-15 drubbing of Ireland at Twickenham, which saw them notch up an impressive eight tries. Don't miss out on any of their latest rugby action by following our tips on getting an England vs Italy live stream below. With a win and a draw against Wales in their earlier Rugby World Cup warm-up matches, they'll be looking to end their prep on a high today. The frustration for Ruaridh McConnochie appears to be over, with the wing set to finally make his England debut on Friday night after twice being named in starting line ups only to pull out with an injury before kick-off. There’s no such luck however for Exeter centre Henry Slade who is once again ruled out with a knee injury, meaning he has now missed all of England’s warm up games ahead of the World Cup. While Conor O’Shea’s Italy chalked up a resounding 85-15 demolition of Russia last month, that win was sandwiched between defeats to Ireland and France in their other World Cup warm-ups, indicating that the Azzurri will struggle to cause any major upsets in Japan. The match marks the 26th meeting between the two nations in a Test, with England looking to maintain a 100% record having won every one of those previous encounters. Find out how to get an England vs Italy live stream by reading our rugby union watching guide below.
How to live stream today's rugby from outside your countryIf you're outside your home country - whether that be the UK or anywhere else - and try to start streaming the rugby via your native broadcaster, you'll realise that you can't as it's location restricted. Fear not, the action is still within your reach. All you need to do is download and install a VPN to effectively trick your computer into thinking that it's back home. That way you can enjoy your home coverage (assuming you comply with the broadcaster's TS&Cs), minus the risk of using a naughty stream from an illegal source. How to stream England vs Italy live in the UKLive stream England vs Italy in AustraliaLive stream England vs Italy in New ZealandHow to watch an England vs Italy live stream in the USThis posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Big data iPhone XR deals have never looked better in the run up to the iPhone 11 Posted: 06 Sep 2019 09:19 AM PDT The brand new iPhone 11 is now set to launch on September 10 but if Apple's notoriously expensive history is anything to go by, the phone will shoot past most consumers' budgets. But it's not all doom and gloom, with every new release, comes good news - price drops on older handsets. In this case, we've been spying a number of iPhone XR deals appear with some exceptional pricing. And what's more, most of these contracts on the iPhone XR are pumped full of data, some even offering an unlimited cap on your usage. In fact, with the exception of EE we've managed to find a big data bargain on the iPhone XR for all the main networks - Three, Vodafone and O2. We've listed all of these offers below for you to look through and decide which one appeals most to you.
These big data iPhone XR deals in full:So what's so good about the iPhone XR?As one of the best iPhones currently on the market (well, until the iPhone 11 comes out!) there is a lot to love with the iPhone XR. Above everything, the battery really stands out. This is the largest and best performing battery on any Apple device at 2942 mAh. Sporting Apple's Liquid Retina display and a powerful A12 bionic chip, going for Apple's more budget flagship doesn't have to mean taking a hit on specs. Read our full iPhone XR review This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Sony A9 II: does this leaked image show Sony's next full-frame mirrorless camera? Posted: 06 Sep 2019 08:50 AM PDT Is the Sony Alpha A9 II around the corner? A leaked image that's appeared on a rumor site suggests the model may not be far away. The original Sony A9 (pictured above) was released back in 2017, and has represented Sony's most capable option for sports and action photographers. It was subject to a significant firmware update earlier this year that ramped up its autofocus capabilities with the arrival of Real-time Tracking technology.
Now, Sony Alpha Rumors claims it's obtained an image that shows the sequel – and you can see it for yourself below. The image shows what appears to be the rear of the Sony A7R IV, with the same style of Multi Selector and revised position of the rear command dial, but the left-hand side of the top-plate is fitted with a similar kind of drive mode collar and dial that the A9 has in this position. Is it real? It certainly looks credible. Sony Alpha Rumors goes on to speculate that the model will feature a 36MP sensor, and that all will be revealed in October. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Best free file recovery software 2019 Posted: 06 Sep 2019 08:46 AM PDT At some point most people learn the hard way the importance of backups. Chances are you already have something set up, perhaps using a cloud-based program such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft's OneDrive. You might have everything routinely saved to a USB stick or to an external hard drive as well. You might even have all three in play. However, while syncing files and folders across multiple devices makes it easy to save them, it unfortunately also makes it easy to delete them by accident. Trying to organize and rearrange folders is a great way to accidentally misplace an important file, only to realize what happened too late. This is where file recovery software can come into their own, and while there are some expensive paid plans, we're going to list the best of the free file recovery software here. However, the caveat is that these are never going to be as powerful as the more expensive versions and are intended for situations which only require an easy recovery. Even still, they still have their place and it's definitely a good idea to have something like any of these in place, just in case - so that the moment you realize you've make a mistake and misplaced something, you can recover it quickly and easily enough, preventing you from need the big paid-for guns in the first place.
Image credit: MiniTool MiniTool Power Data Recovery Free is the only program in this round up which provides you with essential advice during the installation: do not install the software to the drive you want to recover data from, as you may overwrite files. This version is free, but there are paid-for editions available as well, so you will realise that there are a few restrictions. You can only recover 1GB of data, you don’t have the option of saving scan results to work with later, and a few other options are missing – but there's absolutely nothing that stops this from being a great free recovery utility, aside from the occasional ad here and there. You can limit scans to specific files types, and MiniTool Power Data Recovery Free is capable of getting files back from partitions you are not even able to see, and there's support for removable drives including optical media. Scans are pleasingly fast, and results are searchable to make it easier to find exactly what you're looking for. A superb piece of software that worth of your attention. Image credit: 508 Software LLC Featuring a delightful simple interface, Disk Drill make file recovery very simple. There's no need to fiddle with complex options, and the program can be used to scan local as well as removable drives and memory cards. Performance a scan of your chosen drive and you're presented with a list of recoverable files, grouped by type, and you have the option of previewing image files in advance. It's a simple, effective tool with a high success rate. What seems like a nice touch for anyone who is a little nervous about data recovery, is the inclusion of a quick tutorial the first time the program is run – but it is simplistic in the extreme and of little real value, and ultimately serves as an ad to upgrade to the Pro version. Disk Drill is available for both macOS and Windows. Upgrading to Pro increases the number of computers the software can be used on, and opens up more options such as advanced scanning and wider file system support. For most people, however, the free version should cover all the usual eventualities. Image credit: EaseUS Keeping things nice and simple, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free is the friendly, accessible face of recovering lost files. Fire up the program and you're presented with a screen asking which drive you would like to scan for recoverable data – you then just need to hit the Scan button. There are no options to configure, but if you know exactly where a file has gone missing from, you can specify a folder to scan to speed things up. Results are presented in an Explorer-style view which is easy to navigate, but unfortunately there is no indication of the quality of files that have been found – although a preview option is available. You can then select the files you're interested in, and restore them. It's worth noting that the free version of the program only lets you recover up to 2GB of data (500MB by default, but this can be increased from within the program) before you have to upgrade to the paid-for version. While this is not enough for a complete hard drive recovery, it should be enough to help you to get back your most important files when you need to. Image credit: Piriform Something of a stalwart of the data recovery genre, Recuva has managed to build up a dedicated following – and it's not hard to see why. The program can recover data not only from hard drives and memory cards, but also your iPod. While some data recovery tools make this easy by having a simple interface, Recuva takes things further and guides you through the entire process with a wizard. You can perform a lengthy deep scan to track down all recoverable data, or you can limit the search if you're looking for something specific – and it's nice to have this flexibility. As an added bonus, there is a secure deletion option which does the exact reverse of the main feature of the program – it deletes files you are sure you no longer need and renders them unrecoverable. A downside to the program is the heavy promotion of the Pro version of the app, but if you can turn a blind eye to this, you have a powerful tool on your hands – and you can probably live without support for virtual hard drives anyway! Image credit: seriousbit.com Despite the inclusion of the word "pro" in the name, this program is still free; there is, in fact, no non-pro version. The look of UnDeleteMyFiles Pro may not be particularly appealing, but don’t let that put you off too much as there are multiple tools included here, not just data recovery. Recovery can be a little hit and miss as there is no indication of the quality (or recoverability) of files – you just have to hope that the file that are found are in a reasonable state. When it comes to data recovery, there aren't really all that many options other than the ability to search for particular types of files to reduce the size of the list you have to sort through. In terms of extras you also get a disk snapshot tool which basically backs up your drive so you can recover data at your leisure, a secure file deletion tool, and email recovery. Worth checking out, even if this is not necessarily the best of the bunch.
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| Fresh rumors that Canon will release a pro-level EOS R mirrorless camera emerge Posted: 06 Sep 2019 08:29 AM PDT Just a few days after Nikon confirmed it was working on a Nikon D6 DSLR, fresh rumblings that Canon is crafting its own pro-level camera have emerged. First spotted by Canon Rumors, a Japanese business newspaper claims in a Google-translated article that Canon will "introduce the top model of mirrorless camera using a 35mm full-size image sensor in 2021".
The article goes on to claim that "the communication function between the camera body and the interchangeable lens will be higher than the high-priced 'EOS R' released in October 2018". The EOS R (pictured top) is the most senior model in the EOS R line right now, its only stablemate being the EOS RP that arrived earlier this year. Rumors of a future camera positioned above these, dubbed EOS RX, have been circulating for some time. EOS RX or EOS-1D X Mark III?While Canon will no doubt expand its EOS R mirrorless line to cater for a wider audience than that currently attracted to the EOS RP and EOS models, with the 2020 Olympic Games less than a year away there's plenty of speculation that the company will first update its aging EOS-1D X Mark II for the benefit of sports and press photographers. Given that the EOS R line is still very much in its infancy, it seems a safer bet that pro photographers shooting spots and action at the most challenging level will prefer to rely on a model more akin to what they already own. Indeed, while there's much focus on how Canon will develop its EOS R and EOS M mirrorless lines to challenge the likes of Sony and Fujifilm, the company has kept good on its promise to continue catering for DSLR users with the launch of the EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D and the EOS 90D this year. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The best Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge deals in September 2019 Posted: 06 Sep 2019 08:26 AM PDT We'll tell it to you straight, we like the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge A LOT. Until the Galaxy S8 came along in fact, it held the title of our very favourite phone in the world. Now a good few years on since its release, the S7 Edge remains an exceptional mobile and one of the only models we've ever awarded a perfect five stars. But age is now taking it's toll on the quality of deals available. Some major retailers and networks are now beginning to withdraw S7 Edge deals from sale and we're guessing that the availability of the Samsung's newer devices like the Galaxy S10 and Note 10 isn't a pure coincidence. It means that the best tariffs now come and go in short order. You have to have your wits about you to bag the very best Galaxy S7 Edge deals. For a while we've only been seeing expensive offers which for the same price could land you a Samsung Galaxy S10e deal. In other words, the S7 Edge seems to be on its last legs. More options: Galaxy Note 8 deals | Galaxy S9 deals | Galaxy S7 deals | Best mobile phone deals | Galaxy S7 Edge review | Samsung mobile phone deals The Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge went straight to the top of the class when it was released in 2016 - we gave it 5 stars out of 5! It somehow managed to better the accomplished Galaxy S6 Edge, by adding a brilliant camera and gorgeous design tweaks. Read TechRadar's full Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge review This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The new Sennheiser Momentum Wireless headphones are (almost) impossible to lose Posted: 06 Sep 2019 07:47 AM PDT The latest iteration of the Sennheiser Momentum Wireless headphones are here, after an IFA 2019 announcement that showed off the new smart features and voice assistant capability for the premium audio kit – as well as a built-in Tile tracker to stop you misplacing the headphones by accident. The 2018 model was a near-perfect combination of style and sound, only let down by its high price and slightly fiddly button inputs. Now, however, the power button is gone entirely, replaced with an automatic on/off function that can tell when you fold up or unfold the headphones.
The Momentum Wireless headphones will also get voice assistant support for Siri and Google Assistant – with Amazon Alexa set to join the team "soon", according to Sennheiser's press release. There's the same active noise canceling as the previous model, though this time with a "transparent hearing" feature (as with the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless) so you can hear ambient sounds from your surroundings, to be more aware of speeding cars and the other dangers that lurk in this world. None of these features are brand new in themselves – even to the Sennheiser range – but the addition of all them in the new Momentum Wireless headphones looks set to improve the already-impressive offering, even if you're paying the hefty sum of $399.95 (around £280 / AU$500) for the privilege. The Sennheiser Momentum Wireless headphones are currently available in black, with a sandy-white model coming later in November. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Red Dead Online: latest news, updates and multiplayer features Posted: 06 Sep 2019 07:40 AM PDT Red Dead Online is officially out of beta testing and is beginning to earn its stripe as a fully-fledged online game. But with such a massive open-world to explore in Red Dead Redemption 2's single-player story, why should you be excited about the game's online mode? Rockstar's open-world Western game, a prequel to 2010's Red Dead Redemption, was released to wide critical acclaim last year and was all anyone could talk about for months on end. While you might have expected an online mode to be live from the game's successful launch, it makes sense that Rockstar wants you to focus on the main story – and boy is there a lot of it – before waltzing into a less narrative-driven multiplayer experience in Red Dead Online. Rockstar has proved itself at converting a massive single-player game into a lively online experience, as shown in the launch of GTA Online in 2013, which has become almost as massive a phenomenon as the mainline GTA V game it spun off from. So what can you expect from Red Dead Online, and how can you access it?
Red Dead Online update news and patch notes
Red Dead Online's next major update is Frontier Pursuits, which adds three new Specialist Roles - each with their own unique paths and activities. As you progress through each of the new roles you will rank up, unlock new items, benefits and skills such as gun spinning tricks to improved Eagle Eye and more. Check out the trailer below: But that's not all. The update also sees the addition of the Wheeler, Rawson & Co. Club: "an automatic and free way to unlock and acquire Rewards as you accumulate XP (including Role XP) in Red Dead Online". This means you will automatically unlock new clothing, accessories and more by playing. Finally, the update adds the Outlaw Pass which allows you to purchase items from the store. Costing 35 Gold Bars, Outlaw Pass members will receive awards such as exclusive clothing, campsite decorations, bonus cash and more. If you progress through all 70 Outlaw Pass ranks then you can take advantage of every benefit including bonus Gold Bar gifts amounting to 35 Gold Bars. Frontier Pursuits launches on September 10. Red Dead Online: tips and tricks guidesThe wild west is dog eat dog. So make sure you're not the mutt of the litter with our Red Dead Redemption 2 guides which cover everything from fishing and hunting to mini-games and weapons.
Red Dead Online: how to accessIt doesn't take much to jump into Red Dead Redemption 2's online mode. You can access Red Dead Online by selecting the 'Online' option from the Red Dead Redemption 2 title menu (at the top-right hand side of the screen). You then pick which online mode you would like to play and wala!
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| Toshiba's 2020 TV line-up will include Alexa and Android TV Posted: 06 Sep 2019 07:36 AM PDT Toshiba has unveiled its new range of TVs for 2020 at the IFA 2019 tech expo, and it's all about your smart home – with Alexa, Google Assistant and Android TV built right into the new models. The tech company has already launched four new sets in recent months, including the budget 4K Toshiba UL5A. But the new 2020 series is all about smarts and building a connected home entertainment experience. The 2020 Toshiba TV now also works with Google Assistant. This means you can control your TV with any Google Assistant-enabled device. You can turn it on or off, change channels, adjust volume and lots of other other commands by just shouting "Hey Google!".
The 2020 Toshiba Connect TV with Alexa. Image Credit: Toshiba The 2020 Toshiba Connect TV has Alexa built-in. A far field microphone integrated into the bezel (rather than a separate microphone from the Toshiba 2019 range) allows for hands-free voice control wherever you are in your room. As you'd expect, you can ask Alexa to change channels, open apps and everything else you can think of. Finally, the new Toshiba Android TV will be one of the first to run on Android Pie. This will bring a customizable interface and connectivity to apps through your Android smartphone. It also has Chromecast built-in, which means you can cast TV shows, movies and anything else from Android or iOS devices to your TV. This model also has Google Assistant integration too, meaning you can use your voice to control smart home devices, access apps and more. The 2020 Toshiba Connect TV with Alexa. Image Credit: Toshiba TRU Picture EngineOf course it's not just about smart home integration. Toshiba promises the 2020 range will still offer up a great viewing experience thanks to the brand's TRU Picture Engine, which is a picture quality chipset for best-in-class image quality. It combines a trio of image processing technologies, as well as Full HD and HD Ready content and 4K video. Toshiba also continues its partnership with Dolby Audio, bringing its sound offering through Dolby Atmos for a more clear and immersive listening experience. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| The Best TV 2019: 10 big-screen TVs worth buying this year Posted: 06 Sep 2019 07:34 AM PDT You don't have to wait until Black Friday or Cyber Monday to find great deals on the best TVs of 2019 - every week, companies like LG, Samsung and Sony partner with retailers to offer big discounts on some of the their best screens. Shopping for a new TV can be tough, especially if it's been a few years since you last bought a big screen. TVs can have complicated names, complicated feature sets and price tags that seem to shoot up without reason. It's so easy to give up searching that most folks just plunk down money on whatever's cheapest - even if that means getting the worst TV on the shelf. We don't want that happen. In fact, we're going to do everything in our power to help you find the best TV in your price range. That's what this list is all about.
The TVs listed below are based on scores assigned by our sterling team of reviewers and compiled by TechRadar editors based on price and performance. At the top of our list you'll find the brand-new Samsung Q90, available now, which is an early contender for TV of the year. Behind it is LG's new 2019 C9 OLED and a stellar Vizio screen that can reach up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness. We've got models from Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL and Vizio below, so if you've got a particular brand affiliation – or an ecosystem you want to stay within – there's something for you. After you've found a TV on page one, the second page will teach you more about what makes a TV tick and why those specs matter so much. "Should I buy a TV now or wait it out?"This is a question we get a lot. Like most technology (cough, iPhones) TVs are getting incrementally better all the time – which means, yes, if you wait a year - or even a few months - there will probably be a bigger, flashier TV out there for less money. But while doing so will certainly net you a larger screen at a better price, some of the best panels are already being manufactured today. Tomorrow's screens might be a bit larger, a bit brighter and a bit cheaper, but today's screens are just as competent in their own right. We can say that with confidence knowing that most manufacturers have finally embraced the three most important standards in TVs: Ultra HD, Wide Color Gamut and HDR (HDR10 and Dolby Vision). If a TV you're looking at doesn't support at least one of these, you should probably look somewhere else. Not sure where to start? Here are the best TVs we tested this year. Image credit: Samsung Last year, the Samsung Q9FN was the TV to beat. It won plaudits galore for its features and image quality, not to mention its excellent, improved smart platform that came with Bixby support and Samsung SmartThings. However it wasn’t perfect and there were legitimate complaints about viewing angles and an over-aggressive local dimming system that crushed detail just above black. Samsung has clearly taken these criticisms to heart, and directly addressed them in the Q90. The new model has a visibly superior viewing angle that holds its own against an OLED TV, and the local dimming delivers deep blacks without losing shadow detail. To that end, the new Ultra Black Elite filter is nothing short of a revelation, rejecting ambient light in a way that just staggers belief. The Q90 is able to deliver images that can directly compete with an OLED, with natural colors, bright highlights, deep blacks, and well defined shadows. It can also surpass any OLED when it comes to HDR, with images that are often breathtaking in their detail and dynamic range. In fact our only real criticism would be that, unlike some of the competition, the Q90 doesn’t support Dolby Vision. However in all other respects the Samsung Q90 is an absolutely stellar TV that takes QLED to another level. Read the full review: Samsung Q90R QLED TV LG C9 OLED Series (2019) The LG C9 is a truly exceptional 4K OLED TV that takes what was so impressive about last year’s C8 OLED and builds on it. The major difference is the inclusion of the 2nd generation Alpha9 processor, which uses AI enhancements to deliver stellar SDR and HDR images, and helps make the upscaling and processing second-to-none with incredible levels of detail and image fidelity. As is the case with all OLED TVs the panel brightness pales when compared to an LCD TV, but brightness isn’t everything. The absolute blacks and pixel level of precision afforded by the self-emissive technology ensures that HDR looks stunning. There’s support for Dolby Vision as well, and only the absence of HDR10+ disappoints. There are other OLEDs worth considering this year (see: LG's own E9 Series) but we think the OLED C9 offers the best price-to-performance ratio of any TV under the sun in the year 2019. Read the full review: LG C9 OLED (OLED55C9, OLED65C9, OLED77C9) The Vizio P-Series Quantum X is a home run for Vizio. Sure, the SmartCast interface isn’t all the great, and the speakers are worth bypassing, but the TV is packed with awesome features and backed up by an excellent image quality. We’re looking forward to AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support, but even without those features the TV is still one of the best options in its price range. If you truly have deep pockets and want the best image quality out there, then it’s still worth going for LG's OLED or Samsung's QLED TVs - but in the absence of a six-figure salary, the $2,199 Vizio P-Series Quantum X PX-65G1 is clearly an excellent option for those that want quantum dot tech in a smart TV at Vizio-level prices. Read the full review: Vizio P-Series Quantum (PQ65-F1) Samsung Q900R QLED TV With most people - *cough* content providers - only just getting to grips with 4K resolution, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Samsung had gone nuts by introducing the world’s first true 8K TV. And yet, while it's easy to be critical about the Samsung Q900R, it truly does usher in a new era of TV picture quality. Its native 8K pictures are incredible, looking just like the real world - only better. But even more crucially given the dearth of true 8K content for the foreseeable future, the 85Q900R makes all today’s lower resolution sources look better than they do anywhere else, too. Whether 8K delivers the same impact on smaller screens remains to be seen, but if you have a big enough room and budget, the 85Q900R is a vision of the future that’s actually spectacularly worth buying today. Sony Bravia A9G OLED (2019) A direct replacement for last year's Sony A9F/AF9 OLED, the Sony A9G/AG9 Master Series OLED is the new flagship of Sony’s TV fleet. It embraces a characteristically minimalist design that disguises a host of cutting-edge features like Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support, plus Netflix Calibrated Mode (of interest to many), and IMAX Enhanced certification (of interest to few). This is a screen that looks premium, and has a spec on the right side of righteous. The Android platform is easy to live with, that vibrating sound system entertaining and picture quality top notch. Offering Dolby Vision is a welcome refinement, but the caveat is a lack of support for HDR10+. That said, it does a fabulous job up-scaling HD/SDR so it's easy to overlook the lack of at least one HDR format. It's undoubtedly expensive but, all things considered, this glass is class. Read the full review: Sony A9G Master Series OLED LG E9 OLED Series (2019) Overall, the LG E9 OLED offers a dazzling picture, with crisp detail and truly cinematic visuals. LG’s organic LED displays lack the brightness of competing models, but those after a proper movie night in won’t be disappointed. The E9 differs mostly from other LG OLEDs in its shape and its size options – both the more premium W9 and cheaper C9 offer a larger 77-inch model – but we’d be surprised if the E9’s all-glass panel design didn’t impress you. With a unique look, and the multi-channel audio to elevate it above other OLED sets in the range, the E9 is a fantastic addition to any living room if you can afford one. Samsung Q70R QLED TV (2019) Samsung’s flagship Q90R QLED TV blew us away recently with its wider viewing angles, deeper blacks, and superior HDR images - sadly, however, not everyone can afford the flagship model. So what can Samsung offer for those wanting to experience QLED picture quality on a budget? Despite sitting lower down in the QLED line-up, the Q70R includes the same comprehensive smart platform, extensive connections, and cutting-edge features found further up the range. This isn’t the flashiest-looking TV that Samsung has ever made, but if your funds are limited the Q70 is a cracking QLED all-rounder that’s worth checking out. Read the full review: Samsung Q70R QLED TV Sony Bravia X950G Series (2019) OK, so you don't want (or can't afford) Sony's new A9G OLED or the fantastic-but-pricey Z9G. So what should you buy? Check out the X950G series. With superb 4K image clarity, powerful SDR-to-HDR remastering, and a smooth direct LED backlight, Sony is offering something very different with the X950G. Right out of the box, the best way to describe the image quality of the X950G is… well, natural. It’s not flashy. It’s not overly bright. Colors aren’t oversaturated. It’s just a really natural picture with subdued colors and great black levels perfect for HD/SDR content. That said, if you’re the kind of person that wants a bit more pop to your images all you need to do is turn on Live Color in the picture settings. This mode works on HD/SDR content to add a bit more color saturation to the image and helps to make the image ‘pop’ in a way that really grabs your attention. It’s a shame that poor sound quality ruined such a great 4K/HDR TV, however, taken by itself, the Sony X950G is an immaculate screen with a ton of potential. Read the full review: Sony BRAVIA X950G (XBR-65X950G) TCL 6-Series (R615, R617) (2018) If you had deep pockets and checkbook filled with blank checks, we’d tell you to reach deep and shell out for only the best TVs on the market - LG’s crazy-thin OLED W8 or Samsung’s ultra-bright Q9FN QLED (both featured on this list). But that’s not realistic. For the vast, vast majority of us, our budget to spend on a TV is limited to somewhere under $1,000 - and often less than that. To that end, it’s absolutely fair to say that the TCL 6-Series is the best TV you can possibly get in this price range. Its performance per dollar is unmatched and its picture quality - despite a few minor flaws - will truly impress you. Read the full review: TCL 6-Series (R615, R617) Hisense's H8 Series has long offered high quality at a very reasonable price, but this year's new H8F really takes the cake in terms of value and performance: It's the company's best value TV yet and offers both Android TV and the company's proprietary ULED TV tech that it claims offers better contrast than rival LED TVs. When it comes to raw picture quality, the Hisense H8F is simply the best TV in this price range. At $500, the TV offers a stellar image quality, with beautifully deep black-levels and crisp colors - all in a manageable 55-inch package. Sure, the audio leaves a lot to be desired, and you may or may not like Android TV, but you can always buy a Roku streaming stick or Apple TV, and use the TV with a stereo surround system or other speakers - leaving the Hisense H8F to do what it’s best at: display a great image. Read the full review: Hisense H8F (55H8F) Continue on to page two to read about what to look for when buying a TV!
What TV technology is best? Which is the best LCD TV? Which screen size is best for your living room? What's the difference between LCD and LED TVs? The answers aren't always obvious. In fact, buying a new TV can be stressful even for the tech-savvy - there are so many brands, so many features, so many screen sizes, colors, technologies and flavors to choose from. So which one is right for you, your family and your living space? In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about buying a new TV. What types of TV are there out there?There are a lot of different screen types out there, all working in different ways to produce the same results. Each technology has its own unique strengths and weaknesses so here are some basics to consider: LCD TV: CCFL LED TV: Direct LED LED TV: Edge LED OLED TV Quantum Dot Plasma TV Curved TV What resolution tech should I go for?HD Ultra HD and 4K HDR What else should I consider?Buying a flatscreen television is a major investment and one that you can't afford to take lightly. Just popping into the closest store and grabbing the first plasma or LCD you see won't get you the best deal, the screen that suits your needs, or the gear you require to make the most of your new purchase. Size matters People tend to pick the size of their flat TV based on the amount of space they have for it, this isn't necessarily wise. Flat TVs take up much less space than you might think, so your new TV may end up a foot or two further away from your viewing position, making the picture appear smaller. Also, with hi-def, you can have a bigger screen and the same viewing distance without worrying about seeing blemishes inherent to the source. A 4K TV's lack of noise means that the ideal distance to sit from the screen is three to four times the height of the TV. How to calculate the right size HD TV:The trick here is to ensure that your TV is big enough to fill your line of vision, but small enough to be sharp and clear. Remember, if you intend to only watch standard-definition sources, the bigger the screen gets, the worse the image will look. The ideal screen size can be calculated by multiplying the distance that you intend to sit away from it by 0.535 and then rounding this up to the nearest size. So, if you sit 80in away from your TV, the ideal size is 42-inch (80 x 0.535= 42.8). What features should I look out for?Features are too numerous to go into here, but here are some things you should consider. Photo viewing: If you have a digital camera, a TV that has a slot for memory cards or a USB socket for a card reader will let you view your photos onscreen. Here are some of the things we look for when we review a screen, so you should, too... Contrast: Bright whites shouldn't have any signs of green, pink or blue in them, while blacks should look solid and not washed out, grey, green or blue. Colours: Look at how bright and solid they are; how noiseless their edges are; how 'dotty' richly saturated areas are and how natural skin looks, especially in dim scenes. Fine detail: How much texture does the screen give? Does a tree look like a green lump, or can you see the individual leaves Edges: Check for ghosting, bright halos and jaggedness, especially around curves. Motion: Check moving objects and quick camera pans for smearing or blurring, trailing, jerkiness and fizzing dotty noise. Image artefacts: Look for blockiness, colour bands, grain, smearing, dot crawl: anything that looks like it's added by the TV picture processing or a weak TV tuner. Tinker with a TV's picture settings before making a final decision. Factory settings are rarely good for everyday viewing. What about sound?To provide the best audio to complement the pictures, your TV should be hooked up to a surround sound system, but this isn't always an option. So, here's what we listen for when testing a TV's speakers: Bass: Deep, rounded rumbles that don't cause the set to rattle or speakers to distort, cramp or overwhelm the rest of the sound; but that expand when needed. Vocals: Voices should sound open, rich and clear, not boxed in, nasal or thin. Trebles: Treble effects should sound clean, rounded and smooth in loud scenes and shouldn't dominate the soundstage. Soundstage width/depth: A good TV should throw the sound away from the TV, to the sides, forward and back, to give an extra dimension to what's on screen, without losing any coherence. How many HDMI sockets do I need?For a living room TV you should be looking for a minimum of 3 HDMI inputs. If you want to attach a set-top box as well as games consoles etc, those HDMI ports will fill up fast. Do I want to hang my TV on the wall?First off, you'll need to consult a construction expert to check that the wall in question is strong enough to support a flatscreen. Then find out if the set you want is designed to be wall-mounted and, if so, ask if the relevant bracket is included in the basic package or as an optional extra. Will I be connecting it to a home cinema?If the answer is no, you might want to think more carefully about your set's audio performance. Look for a screen that can go as loud as you'll need without distortion or cabinet rattle. Consider how dialogue sounds and how much low-end rumble the bass is capable of. Conversely, it's pointless paying out more cash for exceptional built-in speakers if you already have a decent home cinema system. Happy shopping! This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| Best full-frame camera 2019: 10 advanced DSLRs and mirrorless cameras Posted: 06 Sep 2019 07:28 AM PDT Full-frame cameras are aimed at photographers who want the best image quality possible without having to resort to medium format models. So what's the best full-frame camera right now? It used to be a fairly easy decision to make as full-frame DSLRs were only made by two manufacturers – and you were lucky if you could afford them. Slowly, other brands joined in, and full-frame cameras got cheaper and cheaper, before full-frame mirrorless cameras arrived and changed everything. Today, Sony rules the full-frame mirrorless roost with the most models, but it's been joined by the likes of Canon, Nikon and Panasonic in the past year, all racing to get their systems populated with tempting camera bodies and high-performing lens options to match. There's no doubt that full-frame photography is not only more exciting than ever, but more accessible too. So what makes a full-frame camera so special? Most entry-level and mid-price DSLRs and mirrorless cameras sport an APS-C sized sensor, with the physical dimensions of these measuring around 23.6 x 15.7mm. A full-frame sensor, on the other hand, has larger dimensions of around 36 x 24mm. That's the same size as a frame of 35mm film, hence the name 'full-frame', and is around 2.5x larger than an APS-C sized sensor. This allows for larger photosites on the sensor, which deliver better light-gathering capabilities, which in turn means better image quality – especially at higher sensitivities. Full-frame DSLRs used to be the preserve of professional photographers, but as the costs have dropped and lower-cost models have started to appear, many serious amateurs and enthusiasts can now enjoy the benefits of full-frame photography, whether it's in DSLR or mirrorless form. You can even get full-frame compact cameras, although these are both niche and pricey. We reckon the best full-frame camera right now is the Nikon Z6, thanks to its blend of excellent performance, light body, masses of features and a relatively low price. It's just as great for video as it is for stills and we love the way to handles. To get an idea of what kind of DSLR or mirrorless camera you can get at different price points, try our Best DSLR and Best mirrorless camera buying guides. Otherwise, here's our pick of the best full-frame cameras, both DSLR and mirrorless, you can buy right now. Just before we get to the Top 10, we wanted to draw your attention to an older model that still deserves some attention – particularly if you're on a budget. Now updated by the A7 III, the A7 II packs a 24MP full-frame sensor, five-axis image stabilization system, a hybrid autofocusing setup and a sharp electronic viewfinder, and the fact that it's been on the market for some time now makes it one of the cheapest full-frame cameras around. Sony continues to expand its full-frame lens range too, and there's plenty of love from third parties here on top of that, so there's a high chance you'll be able to partner it with the optic you need without much bother. It's not the newest or flashiest, but a fine alternative to pricier current models nonetheless.
Best full-frame cameras in 2019Nikon's Z6 was the first of two cameras in Nikon's Z system, and while it's no longer the newest model around, it retains its spot at the top of our best full-frame camera list. It's our pick thanks to a brilliant blend of features, performance, handling and price: the 24.5MP sensor delivers beautiful results with great color reproduction and fine detail, while the 273-point AF system works very well and has excellent frame coverage. There's also an impressive 12fps burst shooting mode, sensibly laid-out controls, and a large, bright electronic viewfinder. Existing Nikon user? The FTZ adapter means you'll be able to use your existing F mount lenses too (though check compatibility for older lenses). All this makes the Z6 a brilliant choice for the enthusiast photographer or pro photographer looking for a second body. We can't wait to see where this system goes from here.
The A7 III has become a firm favourite among enthusiasts and pros these last couple of years, and for good reason. In contrast to the more niche A7R IV and A7S II, the A7 III is a camera for everyone, whether they shoot stills or videos, action or static subjects, indoors or out. The sensor has a modest 24MP but its backlit design makes for better light gathering, while the advantage of sensor-based stabilization means you don't need to worry about this being in your lenses, which is something many other mirrorless cameras don't have as standard. Add to that a 710-shot battery life – impressive for a mirrorless camera – a slew of video-specific features and the EyeAF feature for tack-sharp portraits and you have yourself quite some camera.
Nikon's first full-frame mirrorless camera along with the Z6, the Z7 is triumph. As a first-generation camera we should expect the odd hiccup, but the Z7 has been crafted with consideration and it behaves far better than we would expect. A solid sensor, combined with effective image stabilization, together with a beautiful EVF, excellent handling, competent AF performance and great response throughout form the bones of what make this camera such a pleasure to use. The fact that Nikon allows you to use F-mount lenses through the FTZ adapter also makes the journey from DSLR to mirrorless relatively painless if you've already built up a collection of lenses. Like what you see but cash is tight? The 24MP Nikon Z6 (position 1) deserves your attention.
The D850 may have had some of its thunder stolen by the similar Z7 (position 3) but it retains a lot of appeal. It's one of the most advanced DSLRs we've ever tested, with the winning combination of a 45MP full-frame sensor and 7fps burst shooting at its heart, and a wonderful 153-point AF system that makes light work of keeping up with moving subjects. Videos are recorded in 4K quality and are top notch, while build and design are as close to perfect as it gets right now. Its weight and size make the Z7 a little more desirable for most users, but if you're shooting sports or other moving subjects and plan on getting the most out of that focusing system, it's a cracking option.
Like the look of the A7 III but want more pixels? Then the 42.2MP Alpha A7R III is the answer. Not only do you get twice the number of pixels, but Sony has managed to keep the burst rate at 10fps. And while the 399-point AF system isn't quite as advanced at the 693-point system used in the Alpha A9 and A7 III, it's still performs brilliantly – especially with the camera's Eye AF mode that locks onto your subject's eye. Like the Nikon D850 (position 4), the Alpha A7R III means you no longer have to sacrifice performance for resolution or vice versa, while it's versatility means it's just at home perched on a mountain as it is in a studio or out shooting action.
The EOS 5D Mark IV pretty much tweaks and improves everything the Mark III offered. This includes a brilliant 30.4MP sensor that delivers pin-sharp results, together with an advanced and sophisticated 61-point AF system, a pro-spec performance, 4K video and some very polished handling. We have a few reservations, such as the crop factor and inefficient Motion JPEG option when shooting 4K videos, while the 30MP sensor resolution and 7fps burst rate aren't as competitive at this price point as they used to be when the camera was first launched. Still, if you're a Canon user looking for the very best DSLR for a wide range of purposes, this is still very much it.
Canon's first full-frame mirrorless camera, the EOS R, delighted in some ways and frustrated in others, but the EOS RP made a much more positive impression. While technically a more junior model and not as fully featured, its much smaller and lighter body, together with a far nicer price, means that it's far more accessible for those who were hoping to make the jump to mirrorless but didn't want to stretch all the way to the EOS R. Without only around 4MP difference between the two you're not really sacrificing much in terms of sensor resolution, while the responsive touchscreen, fast autofocus and deep buffer makes it a pleasure to use in all kinds of situations. Let's hope Canon fills out the lens range with some smaller and more affordable options, as most current options aren't quite the most suitable partners.
Things have moved on since the D750 burst on the DSLR scene back in 2014, but for DSLR users on a budget, it still makes plenty of sense. It's superior to the D610 and far cheaper than the D850 (position 4), and a perfect upgrade for those shooting with Nikon's DX-format cameras. For its super-low asking price you get a superb 24MP full-frame sensor that captures images with low noise and great dynamic range, together with a tilting LCD screen whose 3.2-inch size makes it larger than those on many cameras released even today. The 51-point AF system is very competent and 6.5fps drive mode more than speedy enough for most people's needs, while built-in Wi-Fi makes getting images out to the wider world a cinch. The lack of a touchscreen is a shame, but let's face it: it's no deal-breaker.
The S1R offers some very impressive tech in a supremely rugged body. The 5.7million-dot viewfinder is, without question, the most impressive on the market right now, while stellar video quality, great image stabilisation and a huge buffer all put a big smile on our face too. At the time of its release, the 47.3MP sensor had the highest number of pixels on any full-frame mirrorless camera too, although it's now been beaten by the Sony A7R IV. Its main party trick, however, is the ability to output 187MP images; quite how often you'll need to print your images to the size of a small country is another matter, but this clearly gives you massive scope for extreme cropping, enlargements to all sizes and homing in on the smaller details in the scene. We have some reservations with the autofocus system, and it's a little on the beefy side too, but for its combination of build, features and overall execution, the S1R scores many points.
If you're a Canon user that's itching to get into full-frame shooting, but you can't quite stretch to the EOS 5D Mark IV, the EOS 6D Mark II is one of your best options. It might not shoot 4K videos and but its has a respectable 26.2MP full-frame sensor, the excellent Dual Pixel CMOS AF systems for swift and fluid focus, and a touch-sensitive LCD screen that flips all the way around to face the front. Other sweeteners include Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth, and compatibility with hundreds of older lenses, both from Canon and third parties. Not sold? The other option is the EOS RP mirrorless camera, which is only a touch pricier right now when bought with its EOS-to-RF adapter, which allows you to keep using EF lenses on Canon's latest breed of mirrorless camera.
Also consider...Nothing from the above take your fancy? There are a couple of other options that you may want to look at. The A9 may now be two years old, but for sports and action shooters it's still pretty much the best option around. Part of that is down to the core specs, which include a superb 693-point AF system, a huge buffer, oversampled 4K video recording and 20fps burst shooting with no viewfinder blackout. But another reason is because of how Sony has continued to support it throughout its lifetime, recently blessing it with firmware that radically improves the stickiness of the autofocus system. The camera is capable of not just keeping an excellent lock on subjects as they move around, but also maintaining this as obstacles present themselves, and that huge buffer lets you keep shooting for extended periods of time. It's not cheap, but if you're shooting action, you won't find a better mirrorless body right now.
Now over three years old, but the D5 is still Nikon's flagship DSLR and a formidable performer when it comes to capturing action. The 20.8MP sensor might seem a bit stingy, but it means the D5 can shoot at 12fps continuous shooting, while the extended ISO range of ISO 3,280,000 has never been seen before in a camera. That's even before we get to the autofocus system; with a coverage of 173 AF points (99 of which are cross-type), the sophistication and speed of the AF is staggering. The ability to shoot 4K video is restricted to three minutes, however, but that aside the D5 is a phenomenal camera that's used by professionals the world over.
Not sure whether to buy a DSLR or mirrorless camera? Check out our guide video below.
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| China set to launch its own cryptocurrency Posted: 06 Sep 2019 07:24 AM PDT China is preparing to launch a national cryptocurrency as part of a plan to expand further into financial technology. The system could be the most advanced cryptocurrency released to date, opening up the world's largest domestic market to the technology. According to a senior Chinese bank officer, the cryptocurrency will help safeguard the nation's foreign exchange sovereignty as the technology continues to grow and more use cases are realised.
Planning ahead“Why is the central bank still doing such a digital currency today when electronic payment methods are so developed?” Mu said, according to a transcript of a lecture he gave this week that was published online and reported by Reuters. “It is to protect our monetary sovereignty and legal currency status. We need to plan ahead for a rainy day.” Mu added that the cryptocurrency's tokens would be equally as secure as central bank-issued paper notes and could be used even without an internet connection. The system will share several similarities with Facebook's recently-announced Libra cryptocurrency, and will work across existing payment platforms such as WeChat and Alipay. Facebook is set to launch both Libra and its Calibra digital wallet next year, but has been tight-lipped on what form both offerings will actually take. It has said it won't launch Libra until all of the regulatory issues are addressed.
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