theverge--2020-08-25--Google Pixel Buds review: second time’s the charm

Google ’ s original Pixel Buds came at a time when the company was still finding its feet as a hardware maker .
They shipped in 2017 alongside a Pixel 2 XL with a bad screen and that very strange Clips camera .
Despite launching after AirPods , Google stubbornly ignored the industry shift toward truly wireless earbuds , and the fabric cable between the Pixel Buds became a chore whenever you wanted to put them away .
There was some good in there — mainly the deep integration of Google Assistant — but it wasn ’ t enough to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overall package .
With its new second-generation Pixel Buds , Google has done an impressive job correcting course .
At $ 179 , they ’ re now fully wireless , have improved sound quality , and are the first truly wireless earbuds to offer hands-free Google Assistant voice controls .
But these Pixel Buds face even more competition than the originals , and while Google has made excellent progress , there are still flaws to be found that put them a bit behind the competition .
Namely , there are frequent connection issues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t exhibit .
The Pixel Buds look similar to their predecessors ; it ’ s still like wearing a piece of Mentos candy in your ear .
Shedding the wire has allowed Google to create a more lightweight design that sits comfortably and securely in my ears .
To me , there ’ s an even bigger upside : a lot of other wireless earbuds tend to jut out of my ears in an unflattering way , but these are very subtle .
They ’ re flush in a way that ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can ’ t tell I ’ m wearing them by looking at me straight on .
New to this iteration is a soft “ stabilizer arc ” ( think of it like a silicone fin ) on each earbud that ’ s meant to help the Pixel Buds stay anchored in your ears .
I had no issues with comfort , but we ’ ve been testing a few pairs of Pixel Buds , and Dieter and Becca both said the arc caused some soreness during extended listening .
The matte white @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to me ( in a good way ) .
It ’ s not far off from an AirPods case in overall size , but the added thickness might be noticeable if you ’ re carrying the Pixel Buds in a tight jeans pocket .
The case supports wireless charging and contains enough juice for the earbuds to reach 24 hours of total battery life .
You ’ ll get around five hours of continuous listening , which puts these exactly at par with the AirPods , but the Pixel Buds fall short of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nowhere close to matching the 11-hour endurance of Samsung ’ s Galaxy Buds Plus .
The charging case has a status light for its own battery and a single LED that signals a charge for both earbuds .
After the random battery woes I ’ ve had with some true wireless earbuds where only one of the pair charges , I ’ d really like to see separate lights for each earbud to eliminate any uncertainty .
I ’ ve noticed that the left and right Pixel Buds tend to discharge at different @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A Google spokesperson said that this behavior is expected .
“ Because the two earbuds serve different functions at different times to maximize battery , one earbud may consume more battery than the other .
The algorithm monitors the state on both earbuds and can switch either earbud to support more power hungry functions , while intelligently prioritizing high quality connectivity and playback performance , ” Google told The Verge by email .
“ On voice calls , the algorithm is more conservative to avoid any dropped audio .
So while a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call , if you switch to streaming audio or other functions after , you will likely see the battery level out.
” The new Pixel Buds now seal in your ear with silicone tips , but , like Apple , Google has integrated a venting system to prevent that plugged-ear feeling that some people find very unpleasant .
It works extremely well .
There ’ s no active noise cancellation with these earbuds , but with the exception of Amazon ’ s Echo Buds , it ’ s rare to see ANC for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ won ’ t encounter the “ eardrum suck ” that can be experienced with the AirPods Pro and Sony 1000XM3s .
The Pixel Buds are among the most comfortable earbuds I ’ ve ever worn — but that comfort comes with a trade-off .
The vents on the Pixel Buds let in a fair bit of ambient noise .
They ’ re designed to do this , but you ’ re not going to get the same level of noise isolation here as you would with the Jabras or Samsung ’ s buds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like having this spatial awareness ; people who want a peaceful train commute probably won ’ t .
The noise creep isn ’ t as bad as with regular AirPods or the older Pixel Buds — the seal does muffle some of what ’ s happening outside — but it ’ s a thing to keep in mind .
Google says the Pixel Buds contain custom-designed 12mm drivers , but the size of these things doesn ’ t necessarily determine how expressive and bold the resulting sound is .
For example , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sound excellent , and kick out powerful bass .
So let ’ s not get hung up on tech specs .
But the Pixel Buds do sound quite nice .
At the time they shipped , bass was a weakness , and the low end didn ’ t pack enough punch for EDM , funk , metal , or other genres that are heavy on low tones .
But in late August , Google released a new firmware update that included a “ bass boost ” EQ setting .
When toggled on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to audio quality — there ’ s a boomy oomph that was missing before — without muddying the mids and highs .
The Pixel Buds deliver a very enjoyable listening experience .
Instruments are nicely layered with an enveloping soundstage .
“ Scott Street ” by Phoebe Bridgers is always a good track for gauging detail and how expressive headphones are .
And here , her vocals are never lost to everything else happening in the song ’ s crescendo .
The Pixel Buds do well showcasing acoustic-focused tracks like “ Dreamsicle ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Without bass boost , if I switch over to my Hold Steady playlist , they lack the driving oomph I look for behind the resounding electric guitars .
Similarly , you sense something missing when listening to Post Malone ’ s “ Circles.
” But with it on , suddenly the powerful low frequencies are there .
Google previously told me that “ from a hardware , software and overall acoustics standpoint , we have room to further boost lows , mids , and highs , ” and bass boost shows that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Pixel Buds sound markedly better now than they did at launch .
I still wish controlling the Pixel Buds took slightly less concentration , though .
Like the original Pixel Buds , these rely on taps for pausing music and skipping tracks .
To adjust the volume , you swipe forward or back on the earbud surface .
It all works , and I can appreciate that Google tried to build in as much functionality as possible .
But like with other headphones that rely on swiping gesture controls , you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re using these controls .
It ’ s relatively easy to pause when you ’ re trying to change the volume and vice versa if you ’ re not mindful of your finger actions .
I Google doesn ’ t let you customize any of the controls , but they work the same on both sides .
( Yes , you ’ re able to individually use either the left or right Pixel Bud for a call or bike ride and leave the other in the case . )
There ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earbuds of this size , and the occasional misread gesture never gets overly frustrating , but it happens .
If you find the controls too unreliable , you can disable them in the Pixel Buds app .
To help you avoid having to fiddle with volume constantly , the Pixel Buds have a feature called Adaptive Sound , which automatically adjusts volume based on your environment .
Music will get louder if you ’ re walking around a city but lower down if you head someplace quiet .
Adjusting the volume yourself temporarily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and you can always just turn it off entirely if you don ’ t like the effect .
The Pixel Buds can ’ t connect to two devices simultaneously like Jabra ’ s 75t , but it ’ s at least very quick when switching between ones you ’ ve already paired .
Taking one of the earbuds out will pause your music .
When watching videos on my phone , I couldn ’ t pick up on any voice sync issues .
As for phone ( or Zoom ) calls , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an accelerometer to detect jaw movement ( and thus speech ) , and this does a good job of making you sound clear to people on the other end without letting in unrelated noise .
They ’ re not the best of the bunch ( as you ’ ll hear in Becca ’ s video ) , but your voice will at least be consistently intelligible .
On the software side , the Pixel Buds still have that useful trick of putting Google Assistant right in your ear and can keep you updated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they come in .
But the convenience is now made better since you can speak to Assistant hands-free .
You ’ ll hear a chime after you say “ Hey Google , ” and you can then ask for the weather , request a certain playlist , tell Assistant to control your smart home gadgets , or bark commands for whatever else you ’ d normally do .
Having the ability to do this while your hands are occupied is a nice perk .
The Pixel Buds also support Fast Pair on Android @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that AirPod owners get on an iPhone .
You hold the Pixel Buds near your phone , a screen pops up to pair with them ( and link them to your Google account ) , and you ’ re done .
If you open the case near your device , you can view the battery status for both the case and earbuds .
As with the original Pixel Buds , these new ones are capable of helping you abroad with Google Translate through conversation mode , but your phone is still doing all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a nice feature to have available even if the results can be imperfect , but it is also something that other earbuds with Google Assistant can do .
The main new functionality you gain with the Pixel Buds is hands-free voice commands .
Google is also experimenting with other features like “ attention alerts ” that automatically lower the volume when the earbuds detect certain sounds like emergency sirens or a crying baby .
But over the course of extended testing after this initial review , it ’ s become more clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant connectivity issues .
The dropouts were few and far between in the beginning , and they ’ re virtually non-existent if you ’ re using the earbuds indoors , but I ’ ve experienced a lot of them when using the Pixel Buds outside — and this experience has been shared by many buyers .
Google has tried to resolve the signal issues via regular firmware updates , and some people have found their own temporary “ fixes ” like doing a factory reset or making sure to take the left earbud @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one , which has apparently helped connection stability .
But this is a problem that most other true wireless earbuds in the Pixel Buds price range just don ’ t have to the same degree .
Google ’ s new , second-gen Pixel Buds are a big improvement over the old in both concept and execution .
Their design makes a ton more sense and is much easier to use , they ’ re comfortable to wear , and they ’ re right in lockstep with the competition on most core features .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to sound quality with the addition of bass boost .
But the connection issues persist , and it ’ s troubling that Google can ’ t seem to fully get a handle on them .
At $ 179 , the Pixel Buds are priced the same as Jabra ’ s Elite 75t earbuds , which I ’ d still personally pick over these for their more dynamic sound , better stability , and because you don ’ t miss out on features depending on what phone you have .
( There ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . )
Google has made big strides with its second pair of Pixel Buds , but the buggy audio holds them back from greatness .
Update Tuesday August 25th 9:00AM ET : This review has been updated to reflect new features and sound improvements that Google has brought to the Pixel Buds through firmware updates .
However , it also now takes into account the Bluetooth stability issues that many buyers have experienced in the months since the Pixel Buds went on sale .
The company has yet to fully resolve this frustrating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review score for the Pixel Buds has dropped from 7.5 to 7 .
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Google’s original Pixel Buds came at a time when the company was still finding its feet as a hardware maker. They shipped in 2017 alongside a Pixel 2 XL with a bad screen and that very strange Clips camera. Despite launching after AirPods, Google stubbornly ignored the industry shift toward truly wireless earbuds, and the fabric cable between the Pixel Buds became a chore whenever you wanted to put them away. There was some good in there — mainly the deep integration of Google Assistant — but it wasn’t enough to make up for a “meh” overall package.
With its new second-generation Pixel Buds, Google has done an impressive job correcting course. At $179, they’re now fully wireless, have improved sound quality, and are the first truly wireless earbuds to offer hands-free Google Assistant voice controls. But these Pixel Buds face even more competition than the originals, and while Google has made excellent progress, there are still flaws to be found that put them a bit behind the competition. Namely, there are frequent connection issues that other earbuds at this price don’t exhibit.
7 Verge Score Google Pixel Buds (2020) $ 179 The Good Much-improved design
Wireless charging
Hands-free Google Assistant
Easy pairing on Android phones The Bad Connection stability concerns
Stabilizer arc can cause discomfort after extended listening
Average battery life
Vented design lets in a fair amount of outside noise $179 at Google$179 at Best Buy$179 at B&H Photo How we rate and review products
The Pixel Buds look similar to their predecessors; it’s still like wearing a piece of Mentos candy in your ear. Shedding the wire has allowed Google to create a more lightweight design that sits comfortably and securely in my ears. To me, there’s an even bigger upside: a lot of other wireless earbuds tend to jut out of my ears in an unflattering way, but these are very subtle. They’re flush in a way that’s rare among the competition, and you can’t tell I’m wearing them by looking at me straight on.
New to this iteration is a soft “stabilizer arc” (think of it like a silicone fin) on each earbud that’s meant to help the Pixel Buds stay anchored in your ears. I had no issues with comfort, but we’ve been testing a few pairs of Pixel Buds, and Dieter and Becca both said the arc caused some soreness during extended listening.
Google’s Pixel Buds have integrated wing tips. Photo by Becca Farsace / The Verge
The matte white oval-shaped charging case looks a little sci-fi to me (in a good way). It’s not far off from an AirPods case in overall size, but the added thickness might be noticeable if you’re carrying the Pixel Buds in a tight jeans pocket.
The case supports wireless charging and contains enough juice for the earbuds to reach 24 hours of total battery life. You’ll get around five hours of continuous listening, which puts these exactly at par with the AirPods, but the Pixel Buds fall short of the Jabra Elite 75t earbuds and come nowhere close to matching the 11-hour endurance of Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Plus.
The case supports wireless charging. Photo by Chris Welch / The Verge
It also makes a very satisfying click when you close it. Photo by Chris Welch / The Verge
The charging case has a status light for its own battery and a single LED that signals a charge for both earbuds. After the random battery woes I’ve had with some true wireless earbuds where only one of the pair charges, I’d really like to see separate lights for each earbud to eliminate any uncertainty.
I’ve noticed that the left and right Pixel Buds tend to discharge at different rates, sometimes by a substantial amount. A Google spokesperson said that this behavior is expected. “Because the two earbuds serve different functions at different times to maximize battery, one earbud may consume more battery than the other. The algorithm monitors the state on both earbuds and can switch either earbud to support more power hungry functions, while intelligently prioritizing high quality connectivity and playback performance,” Google told The Verge by email. “On voice calls, the algorithm is more conservative to avoid any dropped audio. So while a difference may be noticeable after a long call, if you switch to streaming audio or other functions after, you will likely see the battery level out.”
The new Pixel Buds now seal in your ear with silicone tips, but, like Apple, Google has integrated a venting system to prevent that plugged-ear feeling that some people find very unpleasant. It works extremely well. There’s no active noise cancellation with these earbuds, but with the exception of Amazon’s Echo Buds, it’s rare to see ANC for under $200. At least you won’t encounter the “eardrum suck” that can be experienced with the AirPods Pro and Sony 1000XM3s. The Pixel Buds are among the most comfortable earbuds I’ve ever worn — but that comfort comes with a trade-off.
The Pixel Buds have a venting system similar to Apple’s AirPods Pro. Photo by Chris Welch / The Verge
The vents on the Pixel Buds let in a fair bit of ambient noise. They’re designed to do this, but you’re not going to get the same level of noise isolation here as you would with the Jabras or Samsung’s buds. Runners and other outdoor enthusiasts will like having this spatial awareness; people who want a peaceful train commute probably won’t. The noise creep isn’t as bad as with regular AirPods or the older Pixel Buds — the seal does muffle some of what’s happening outside — but it’s a thing to keep in mind.
Google says the Pixel Buds contain custom-designed 12mm drivers, but the size of these things doesn’t necessarily determine how expressive and bold the resulting sound is. For example, the Jabra Elite 75t buds have 6mm drivers, sound excellent, and kick out powerful bass. So let’s not get hung up on tech specs. But the Pixel Buds do sound quite nice. At the time they shipped, bass was a weakness, and the low end didn’t pack enough punch for EDM, funk, metal, or other genres that are heavy on low tones. But in late August, Google released a new firmware update that included a “bass boost” EQ setting. When toggled on, bass boost makes a noticeable improvement to audio quality — there’s a boomy oomph that was missing before — without muddying the mids and highs.
Google improved the low-end performance of the Pixel Buds with a new bass boost EQ setting. Photo by Chris Welch / The Verge
The Pixel Buds deliver a very enjoyable listening experience. Instruments are nicely layered with an enveloping soundstage. “Scott Street” by Phoebe Bridgers is always a good track for gauging detail and how expressive headphones are. And here, her vocals are never lost to everything else happening in the song’s crescendo. The Pixel Buds do well showcasing acoustic-focused tracks like “Dreamsicle” by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit. Without bass boost, if I switch over to my Hold Steady playlist, they lack the driving oomph I look for behind the resounding electric guitars. Similarly, you sense something missing when listening to Post Malone’s “Circles.” But with it on, suddenly the powerful low frequencies are there.
Google previously told me that “from a hardware, software and overall acoustics standpoint, we have room to further boost lows, mids, and highs,” and bass boost shows that the company wasn’t lying. The Pixel Buds sound markedly better now than they did at launch.
I still wish controlling the Pixel Buds took slightly less concentration, though. Like the original Pixel Buds, these rely on taps for pausing music and skipping tracks. To adjust the volume, you swipe forward or back on the earbud surface. It all works, and I can appreciate that Google tried to build in as much functionality as possible. But like with other headphones that rely on swiping gesture controls, you have to be deliberate and precise when you’re using these controls. It’s relatively easy to pause when you’re trying to change the volume and vice versa if you’re not mindful of your finger actions. I
Google doesn’t let you customize any of the controls, but they work the same on both sides. (Yes, you’re able to individually use either the left or right Pixel Bud for a call or bike ride and leave the other in the case.) There’s only so much you can do on earbuds of this size, and the occasional misread gesture never gets overly frustrating, but it happens. If you find the controls too unreliable, you can disable them in the Pixel Buds app. To help you avoid having to fiddle with volume constantly, the Pixel Buds have a feature called Adaptive Sound, which automatically adjusts volume based on your environment. Music will get louder if you’re walking around a city but lower down if you head someplace quiet. Adjusting the volume yourself temporarily disengages Adaptive Sound until your surroundings change, and you can always just turn it off entirely if you don’t like the effect.
AGREE TO CONTINUE: GOOGLE PIXEL BUDS (2020) Every smart device now requires you to agree to a series of terms and conditions before you can use it — contracts that no one actually reads. It’s impossible for us to read and analyze every single one of these agreements. But we started counting exactly how many times you have to hit “agree” to use devices when we review them since these are agreements most people don’t read and definitely can’t negotiate. You can pair and listen to Google’s Pixel Buds without needing to agree to anything. However, installing the Pixel Buds app comes with a number of mandatory agreements: Google Terms of Service
Google Privacy Policy
Google Device Arbitration Agreement (for US customers) Google Assistant also collects data “such as your device contacts or activity on Google sites and apps, to provide better, more helpful answers through the Google Assistant. Third party services may also share information with Google pursuant to their own privacy policies when you choose to use those services via Google services, including the Google Assistant.” Final tally: at least three mandatory agreements if you want to get the most from the Pixel Buds.
The Pixel Buds suffer worse connection stability issues than many competing earbuds. Photo by Becca Farsace / The Verge
The Pixel Buds can’t connect to two devices simultaneously like Jabra’s 75t, but it’s at least very quick when switching between ones you’ve already paired. Taking one of the earbuds out will pause your music. When watching videos on my phone, I couldn’t pick up on any voice sync issues. As for phone (or Zoom) calls, the Pixel Buds have beamforming mics and an accelerometer to detect jaw movement (and thus speech), and this does a good job of making you sound clear to people on the other end without letting in unrelated noise. They’re not the best of the bunch (as you’ll hear in Becca’s video), but your voice will at least be consistently intelligible.
On the software side, the Pixel Buds still have that useful trick of putting Google Assistant right in your ear and can keep you updated on your phone’s notifications as they come in. But the convenience is now made better since you can speak to Assistant hands-free. You’ll hear a chime after you say “Hey Google,” and you can then ask for the weather, request a certain playlist, tell Assistant to control your smart home gadgets, or bark commands for whatever else you’d normally do. Having the ability to do this while your hands are occupied is a nice perk. The Pixel Buds also support Fast Pair on Android, which mimics the seamless setup process that AirPod owners get on an iPhone. You hold the Pixel Buds near your phone, a screen pops up to pair with them (and link them to your Google account), and you’re done. If you open the case near your device, you can view the battery status for both the case and earbuds.
Pairing the Pixel Buds with an Android phone is very convenient.
As with the original Pixel Buds, these new ones are capable of helping you abroad with Google Translate through conversation mode, but your phone is still doing all of the real work. It’s a nice feature to have available even if the results can be imperfect, but it is also something that other earbuds with Google Assistant can do. The main new functionality you gain with the Pixel Buds is hands-free voice commands. Google is also experimenting with other features like “attention alerts” that automatically lower the volume when the earbuds detect certain sounds like emergency sirens or a crying baby.
But over the course of extended testing after this initial review, it’s become more clear to me that the Pixel Buds have significant connectivity issues. The dropouts were few and far between in the beginning, and they’re virtually non-existent if you’re using the earbuds indoors, but I’ve experienced a lot of them when using the Pixel Buds outside — and this experience has been shared by many buyers.
Google has tried to resolve the signal issues via regular firmware updates, and some people have found their own temporary “fixes” like doing a factory reset or making sure to take the left earbud out of the case before the right one, which has apparently helped connection stability. But this is a problem that most other true wireless earbuds in the Pixel Buds price range just don’t have to the same degree.
Google’s competition includes the Jabra Elite 75t earbuds for around the same price. Photo by Chris Welch / The Verge
Google’s new, second-gen Pixel Buds are a big improvement over the old in both concept and execution. Their design makes a ton more sense and is much easier to use, they’re comfortable to wear, and they’re right in lockstep with the competition on most core features. And the company has made impressive improvements to sound quality with the addition of bass boost. But the connection issues persist, and it’s troubling that Google can’t seem to fully get a handle on them.
At $179, the Pixel Buds are priced the same as Jabra’s Elite 75t earbuds, which I’d still personally pick over these for their more dynamic sound, better stability, and because you don’t miss out on features depending on what phone you have. (There’s unsurprisingly no Pixel Buds app for iOS.) Google has made big strides with its second pair of Pixel Buds, but the buggy audio holds them back from greatness.
Update Tuesday August 25th 9:00AM ET: This review has been updated to reflect new features and sound improvements that Google has brought to the Pixel Buds through firmware updates. However, it also now takes into account the Bluetooth stability issues that many buyers have experienced in the months since the Pixel Buds went on sale. The company has yet to fully resolve this frustrating problem. As a result, the review score for the Pixel Buds has dropped from 7.5 to 7.
Vox Media has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence editorial content, though Vox Media may earn commissions for products purchased via affiliate links. For more information, see our ethics policy .


theverge--2020-08-25--Fitbit’s new Sense smartwatch can take your skin’s temperature to help you manage stress

Fitbit has debuted two new smartwatches , the Sense and the Versa 3 .
The $ 329 Sense is the flagship option and is the most capable Fitbit wearable yet .
The Versa 3 succeeds the Versa 2 and will cost $ 229 .
Preorders for both watches begin today through Fitbit ’ s site , and they ’ ll release in the US in late September .
Though the two new watches look similar , the Sense has a few more advanced health tracking features , such as detailed heart rate scans with atrial fibrillation ( afib ) detection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ built into the watch ( still pending FDA approval ) .
In that way , it ’ s on par with Apple ’ s and Samsung ’ s recent smartwatches ( though , Samsung ’ s EKG capability in the Galaxy Watch 3 is also still pending FDA approval ) .
Where the Sense stands out is with its stress detection features , which it ’ s pitching as something that ’ s crucially needed — especially in today ’ s increasingly stressful world .
To take a reading , you hold your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breath .
The Sense will measure your heart rate , and uniquely , your skin ’ s temperature will be collected with its electrodermal activity ( EDA ) sensor .
If your skin feels hot , chilled , or clammy , the Sense might be able to make sense of why it ’ s happening over time .
Fitbit ’ s app will score you on your stress level , with a higher score being better than a lower one .
The EKG and EDA functions aside , Fitbit ’ s Sense and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smartwatch features .
They both have built-in GPS , OLED touchscreens , water resistance up to 50 meters , at least six days of battery life , and a new snap-on magnetic charging mechanism .
Both also support Fitbit Pay for contactless payments , and with your Android phone kept nearby , you ’ ll be able to respond to texts and answer calls with either smartwatch via their built-in microphones and speakers .
If you ’ re looking at the less expensive Versa 3 , it ’ s worth noting that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Versa 2 .
Fitbit has simplified its strap mechanisms to detach when you push a button on the back of the device .
Along with Alexa support for voice queries , Fitbit is adding Google Assistant to the mix , though it won ’ t arrive until winter 2020 .
Voice assistants weren ’ t particularly handy or elegant to use with the previous-generation Versa , since there wasn ’ t a built-in speaker to play their voices through .
This new model remedies that with a speaker that can do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , you can take voice calls through the Versa 3 when your Android phone is near .
The last of Fitbit ’ s announcements is the $ 99 Inspire 2 fitness tracker .
It ’ s comparatively basic to the above two devices , though this new iteration features a refined design with a touch panel in place of the Inspire HR ’ s side button .
It also touts a 10-day battery life — twice as long as the prior model — and notably , it comes with a full year of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two devices detailed above include six-month trials of Fitbit Premium .
It ’ s hard to say if it ’ s worth upgrading if you already own the first-generation Inspire , but $ 99 seems like a good price for a discreet , water-resistant device that can track your activity and sleep , monitor your heart rate , and push your phone ’ s notifications to your wrist .

Fitbit has debuted two new smartwatches, the Sense and the Versa 3. The $329 Sense is the flagship option and is the most capable Fitbit wearable yet. The Versa 3 succeeds the Versa 2 and will cost $229. Preorders for both watches begin today through Fitbit’s site, and they’ll release in the US in late September.
Though the two new watches look similar, the Sense has a few more advanced health tracking features, such as detailed heart rate scans with atrial fibrillation (afib) detection via the electrocardiogram (EKG) app built into the watch (still pending FDA approval). In that way, it’s on par with Apple’s and Samsung’s recent smartwatches (though, Samsung’s EKG capability in the Galaxy Watch 3 isn’t available in the US yet).
Where the Sense stands out is with its stress detection features, which it’s pitching as something that’s crucially needed — especially in today’s increasingly stressful world. To take a reading, you hold your palm over the screen and start to breath. The Sense will measure your heart rate, and uniquely, your skin’s temperature will be collected with its electrodermal activity (EDA) sensor. If your skin feels hot, chilled, or clammy, the Sense might be able to make sense of why it’s happening over time. Fitbit’s app will score you on your stress level, with a higher score being better than a lower one.
Related Why doctors are worried about the Apple Watch EKG
Both the Sense (shown in the picture) and the Versa 3 feature a new strap mechanism that makes them easier to swap out. Image: Fitbit
The EKG and EDA functions aside, Fitbit’s Sense and Versa 3 share many of the same smartwatch features. They both have built-in GPS, OLED touchscreens, water resistance up to 50 meters, at least six days of battery life, and a new snap-on magnetic charging mechanism. Both also support Fitbit Pay for contactless payments, and with your Android phone kept nearby, you’ll be able to respond to texts and answer calls with either smartwatch via their built-in microphones and speakers.
If you’re looking at the less expensive Versa 3, it’s worth noting that it seems to address a few pain points of the Versa 2. Fitbit has simplified its strap mechanisms to detach when you push a button on the back of the device. Along with Alexa support for voice queries, Fitbit is adding Google Assistant to the mix, though it won’t arrive until winter 2020. Voice assistants weren’t particularly handy or elegant to use with the previous-generation Versa, since there wasn’t a built-in speaker to play their voices through. This new model remedies that with a speaker that can do that. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, you can take voice calls through the Versa 3 when your Android phone is near.
The Inspire 2 features a new touch-sensitive panel in place of its predecessor’s button-based navigation. Image: Fitbit
The last of Fitbit’s announcements is the $99 Inspire 2 fitness tracker. It’s comparatively basic to the above two devices, though this new iteration features a refined design with a touch panel in place of the Inspire HR’s side button. It also touts a 10-day battery life — twice as long as the prior model — and notably, it comes with a full year of Fitbit Premium with purchase. The other two devices detailed above include six-month trials of Fitbit Premium.
It’s hard to say if it’s worth upgrading if you already own the first-generation Inspire, but $99 seems like a good price for a discreet, water-resistant device that can track your activity and sleep, monitor your heart rate, and push your phone’s notifications to your wrist.


theverge--2020-08-25--Nomad Base Station Pro review: wireless charging’s imperfect future

Nomad ’ s Base Station Pro was supposed to usher in a new era of wireless chargers , promising to make the dream of a multiple-coil wireless charger a reality when it was announced nearly a year ago .
After significant delays , the company has been beaten to the punch , but Nomad ’ s version is finally here , taking the multi-coil approach that Zens debuted ( and Apple reportedly failed at entirely with the canceled AirPower ) and pushes it even further with a thinner charger that can wirelessly charge up to three devices .
But while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Aira FreePower technology that powers it — may one day be the future of wireless charging technology , right now , the current version is just too expensive and too limited .
From the outside , the Base Station Pro looks like a larger version of the company ’ s existing Base Station wireless charger , with the same slim profile , smooth black leather , and gray aluminum .
The only port is a USB-C plug on the back for power , with three status LEDs on the front that indicate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are very different on the inside , though : instead of the traditional three copper charging coils , the Base Station Pro has 18 and uses Aira ’ s FreePower wireless charging technology .
While Nomad is providing the ( excellent-looking ) trappings , it ’ s Aira ’ s technology on the inside that makes the Base Station Pro different from nearly every other wireless charger out there .
The key difference is that the Base Station Pro doesn ’ t use traditional coils , like most other wireless chargers ( including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Zens Liberty ) .
Instead , Aira ’ s FreePower coils are embedded directly in a printed circuit board , allowing for a far thinner final product — the entire board for the Base Station Pro is less than 6mm thick .
Aira says that the multiple coils also allow for a better charging connection that precisely aligns with a device ’ s own coil , resulting in less wasted energy , and therefore , less excess heat .
The result is a multi-coil charger that ’ s just as thin as Nomad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t require any noisy fans to cool .
The way that wireless charging should always have worked That may seem like a lot of effort , but the technology works really well .
There ’ s no hunting for a “ sweet spot ” when placing devices on the Base Station Pro — just drop your phone , headphone case , or whatever other Qi device you ’ re charging on the leather surface , and it ’ ll charge .
As I noted in my Zens review , it ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the way that wireless charging should always have worked .
There ’ s no finicky alignment needed — something that I ’ ve encountered as a particular issue with Nomad ’ s previous Base Station when maneuvering around multiple phones .
In my week of testing , the Base Station Pro did even better than the Zens Liberty , which had the occasional dropout when positioning devices on the sides of the pad .
( Aira and Nomad also seem to have ironed out the various hardware and software glitches that my colleague @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at CES earlier this year , too . )
With the Base Station Pro , it ’ s practically impossible to miss when placing your phone down , unless it ’ s hanging so far off the pad that the charging coil isn ’ t over the leather charging surface anymore .
Only 5W charging for anything other than an iPhone The problem is that while the Base Station Pro makes the “ wireless ” part a breeze , the actual “ charging ” is pretty limited .
While it can charge up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s limited to just 5W wireless charging — the slowest standard speed — for almost any device .
Nomad and Aira are only supporting a single exception , offering fast charging speeds of 7.5W for iPhones ( and only iPhones ) .
But if you have a Samsung Galaxy Note 20 , a OnePlus 8 Pro , or any other device , you ’ re stuck without any fast charging at all .
That limitation is especially disappointing to see given the Base Station Pro ’ s price : $ 229 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ original $ 99 Base Station ( which offered faster 10W charging to boot ) .
For comparison , the Zens Liberty , the other major multi-coil charger available , costs $ 169.99 , and while it can only charge two devices to the Base Station Pro ’ s three , it can support up to 15W wireless charging and offers a USB-A port for an optional Apple Watch charger or a standard cable for charging things that don ’ t support Qi .
The Base Station Pro is just the first device that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and the company has big ambitions for future devices ( which presumably won ’ t only be limited to Nomad ) .
Aira imagines whole desk surfaces that are giant FreePower chargers that can power any device that ’ s placed on it , or a whole nightstand that will recharge all your gadgets overnight .
The Nomad Base Station Pro is an early preview of the future of wireless charging — but until the price comes down and the charging speeds go up , that future isn ’ t here yet @

Nomad’s Base Station Pro was supposed to usher in a new era of wireless chargers, promising to make the dream of a multiple-coil wireless charger a reality when it was announced nearly a year ago. After significant delays, the company has been beaten to the punch, but Nomad’s version is finally here, taking the multi-coil approach that Zens debuted (and Apple reportedly failed at entirely with the canceled AirPower) and pushes it even further with a thinner charger that can wirelessly charge up to three devices.
But while the Nomad Base Station Pro — and the Aira FreePower technology that powers it — may one day be the future of wireless charging technology, right now, the current version is just too expensive and too limited.
7 Verge Score Nomad Base Station Pro $ 229 The Good No awkward positioning for charging
Excellent design
No loud fan The Bad 5W charging (except on iPhones)
Very expensive $229 at Nomad How we rate and review products
From the outside, the Base Station Pro looks like a larger version of the company’s existing Base Station wireless charger, with the same slim profile, smooth black leather, and gray aluminum. The only port is a USB-C plug on the back for power, with three status LEDs on the front that indicate when a device is charging.
Things are very different on the inside, though: instead of the traditional three copper charging coils, the Base Station Pro has 18 and uses Aira’s FreePower wireless charging technology. While Nomad is providing the (excellent-looking) trappings, it’s Aira’s technology on the inside that makes the Base Station Pro different from nearly every other wireless charger out there.
The embedded coils on the Aira FreePower circuit board inside the Base Station Pro (left), standard charging coils on the original Base Station (right). [Images: Nomad / Aira]
The key difference is that the Base Station Pro doesn’t use traditional coils, like most other wireless chargers (including Nomad’s multi-coil competitor, the Zens Liberty). Instead, Aira’s FreePower coils are embedded directly in a printed circuit board, allowing for a far thinner final product — the entire board for the Base Station Pro is less than 6mm thick. Aira says that the multiple coils also allow for a better charging connection that precisely aligns with a device’s own coil, resulting in less wasted energy, and therefore, less excess heat. The result is a multi-coil charger that’s just as thin as Nomad’s traditional offerings and doesn’t require any noisy fans to cool.
The way that wireless charging should always have worked
That may seem like a lot of effort, but the technology works really well. There’s no hunting for a “sweet spot” when placing devices on the Base Station Pro — just drop your phone, headphone case, or whatever other Qi device you’re charging on the leather surface, and it’ll charge. As I noted in my Zens review, it’s not a revolution as much as it is the way that wireless charging should always have worked.
Related The best wireless charger to buy right now
There’s no finicky alignment needed — something that I’ve encountered as a particular issue with Nomad’s previous Base Station when maneuvering around multiple phones. In my week of testing, the Base Station Pro did even better than the Zens Liberty, which had the occasional dropout when positioning devices on the sides of the pad. (Aira and Nomad also seem to have ironed out the various hardware and software glitches that my colleague Ashley Carman experienced when trying a prototype at CES earlier this year, too.)
The Base Station Pro can only fast-charge iPhones The LED indicator lights automatically dim after a few seconds
With the Base Station Pro, it’s practically impossible to miss when placing your phone down, unless it’s hanging so far off the pad that the charging coil isn’t over the leather charging surface anymore.
Only 5W charging for anything other than an iPhone
The problem is that while the Base Station Pro makes the “wireless” part a breeze, the actual “charging” is pretty limited. While it can charge up to three devices at once, it’s limited to just 5W wireless charging — the slowest standard speed — for almost any device. Nomad and Aira are only supporting a single exception, offering fast charging speeds of 7.5W for iPhones (and only iPhones). But if you have a Samsung Galaxy Note 20, a OnePlus 8 Pro, or any other device, you’re stuck without any fast charging at all.
That limitation is especially disappointing to see given the Base Station Pro’s price: $229, more than twice as much as the original $99 Base Station (which offered faster 10W charging to boot). For comparison, the Zens Liberty, the other major multi-coil charger available, costs $169.99, and while it can only charge two devices to the Base Station Pro’s three, it can support up to 15W wireless charging and offers a USB-A port for an optional Apple Watch charger or a standard cable for charging things that don’t support Qi.
The leather and aluminum charger is unobtrusive on a nightstand or desk
The Base Station Pro is just the first device that will feature Aira’s FreePower hardware, and the company has big ambitions for future devices (which presumably won’t only be limited to Nomad). Aira imagines whole desk surfaces that are giant FreePower chargers that can power any device that’s placed on it, or a whole nightstand that will recharge all your gadgets overnight.
The Nomad Base Station Pro is an early preview of the future of wireless charging — but until the price comes down and the charging speeds go up, that future isn’t here yet.


theverge--2020-08-25--The original digital watch button foretold the battery life struggle of modern smartwatches

In today ’ s digital age , it sometimes feels like hardware has taken a back seat to the software that drives our devices .
Button of the Month is a monthly column that explores the physical pieces of our phones , tablets , and controllers that we interact with every day .
In hindsight , it sounds almost ridiculous .
An expensive watch with technology that ’ s never been put on your wrist before that costs hundreds of dollars more than a traditional timepiece .
And get this : this fancy , futuristic gadget can ’ t even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m not talking about the original Apple Watch .
I ’ m talking about the Pulsar Time Computer , the first commercially sold digital watch , which was released back in the 1970s by Hamilton .
But despite the 50-year difference , the Pulsar foretold the same issues that we still struggle with today on our modern smartwatches — and fixed them the way we do , too : with a button .
50 years later , we still struggle with battery life The original Pulsar was a revolutionary device , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Live and Let Die on the wrist of Roger Moore ’ s James Bond .
But it had a big flaw : the LED technology that Hamilton used on the Pulsar was simply too power-hungry to stay illuminated all the time .
To deal with the technology ’ s limitations , Hamilton turned to a very analog solution in the form of a physical button that had to be pressed to light up the LED display and show the time for a few seconds .
Later models would iterate on that , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the watch .
( For a more complete look at the rise and fall of digital LED watches , check out Hodinkee ’ s in-depth history here . )
That single button did all the heavy lifting .
Without the rotating crowns or gears of a traditional wristwatch , Hamilton also had to introduce a new method of setting the time .
Pressing and holding the single button switches the watch to a time-setting mode .
Individual clicks of the button advance the hour ; users then press and hold again to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finally the individual minute .
It ’ s a system that ’ s still common today on most digital watches , largely unchanged throughout the decades .
The good news for today ’ s smartwatches is that the Pulsar ’ s battery problem wasn ’ t insurmountable .
Liquid-crystal displays — LCDs — arrived , with their iconic seven-segment configuration to show numbers .
The switch to LCDs allowed for watches with less power-hungry displays that could offer the best of both worlds .
Today ’ s digital watches offer precise timekeeping that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the ability to not just display the time all the time but to do so for years before needing a replacement battery .
Technology is nothing but cyclical , though , which is why decades after Hamilton struggled with a way to cram enough power into a tiny , wrist-born form factor , we ’ re still struggling to do the same thing with modern smartwatches .
The first-generation Android Wear and Apple Watches — released in 2014 and 2015 — suffered from the exact same limitation the Pulsar did all those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their screens powered on the whole time .
Technology is nothing but cyclical Despite all the leaps and bounds of modern technology , the early generations of smartwatches had to turn to similar solutions as the Pulsar , limiting watchface visibility to the same physical actions , like raising your wrist or pushing a button .
Apple took until last year to solve this problem to a satisfactory level , optimizing display settings and battery technology to create a screen that stayed on all the time without sacrificing the broader functionality of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has come full circle .
Where the LED display on the Pulsar was too power-hungry for the 1970s , its descendant OLED technology — with its bright colors , deeper blacks , and ability to selectively power just the visible parts of the display — is perfect for today ’ s ( rechargeable ) smartwatches .
Those dueling technologies are still at the heart of the modernized Hamilton PSR , the 2020 remake of the original Pulsar Time Computer that ’ s pictured in this article .
In deference to the ( reasonable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to always display the time , it has a hybrid LCD and OLED panel .
Most of the time , the LCD portion will dimly show the time ; it ’ s unsatisfying but effective .
Push the button , though , and the LEDs will blaze to life — just like on the original model from half a century ago .

In hindsight, it sounds almost ridiculous. An expensive watch with technology that’s never been put on your wrist before that costs hundreds of dollars more than a traditional timepiece. And get this: this fancy, futuristic gadget can’t even continuously show the time.
No, I’m not talking about the original Apple Watch. I’m talking about the Pulsar Time Computer, the first commercially sold digital watch, which was released back in the 1970s by Hamilton. But despite the 50-year difference, the Pulsar foretold the same issues that we still struggle with today on our modern smartwatches — and fixed them the way we do, too: with a button.
50 years later, we still struggle with battery life
The original Pulsar was a revolutionary device, so cool and futuristic that it appeared in Live and Let Die on the wrist of Roger Moore’s James Bond. But it had a big flaw: the LED technology that Hamilton used on the Pulsar was simply too power-hungry to stay illuminated all the time. To deal with the technology’s limitations, Hamilton turned to a very analog solution in the form of a physical button that had to be pressed to light up the LED display and show the time for a few seconds. Later models would iterate on that, adding a wrist-flicking gesture to automatically light up the watch. (For a more complete look at the rise and fall of digital LED watches, check out Hodinkee’s in-depth history here.)
That single button did all the heavy lifting. Without the rotating crowns or gears of a traditional wristwatch, Hamilton also had to introduce a new method of setting the time. Pressing and holding the single button switches the watch to a time-setting mode. Individual clicks of the button advance the hour; users then press and hold again to adjust the tens of minutes, and finally the individual minute. It’s a system that’s still common today on most digital watches, largely unchanged throughout the decades.
The good news for today’s smartwatches is that the Pulsar’s battery problem wasn’t insurmountable. Liquid-crystal displays — LCDs — arrived, with their iconic seven-segment configuration to show numbers. The switch to LCDs allowed for watches with less power-hungry displays that could offer the best of both worlds. Today’s digital watches offer precise timekeeping that outdoes the finest of handmade Swiss watches and the ability to not just display the time all the time but to do so for years before needing a replacement battery.
Technology is nothing but cyclical, though, which is why decades after Hamilton struggled with a way to cram enough power into a tiny, wrist-born form factor, we’re still struggling to do the same thing with modern smartwatches.
The first-generation Android Wear and Apple Watches — released in 2014 and 2015 — suffered from the exact same limitation the Pulsar did all those years ago: being unable to keep their screens powered on the whole time.
Technology is nothing but cyclical
Despite all the leaps and bounds of modern technology, the early generations of smartwatches had to turn to similar solutions as the Pulsar, limiting watchface visibility to the same physical actions, like raising your wrist or pushing a button. Apple took until last year to solve this problem to a satisfactory level, optimizing display settings and battery technology to create a screen that stayed on all the time without sacrificing the broader functionality of the Apple Watch.
Even the hardware itself has come full circle. Where the LED display on the Pulsar was too power-hungry for the 1970s, its descendant OLED technology — with its bright colors, deeper blacks, and ability to selectively power just the visible parts of the display — is perfect for today’s (rechargeable) smartwatches.


theverge--2020-08-25--Level’s latest smart lock can be unlocked with a touch

Level is a relatively new company in the smart home scene , but today it ’ s announcing its second product of the year : the Level Touch .
The Touch uses the same clever engineering and sleek design of the Level Bolt , but packages it into a full lock replacement and doesn ’ t rely on any existing deadbolt parts you may have .
It costs $ 329 and is available in a variety of finishes from Level ’ s website starting today .
Though the Touch uses the same interior mechanism as the Bolt , it comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a back bezel with a traditional lever , effectively replacing all of the parts of your door lock .
By expanding to the outside components , Level is able to add capacitive touch to unlock or lock the door , authenticating over Bluetooth LE through the phone in your pocket .
You can walk up to the door and just touch the outside of the lock to have it unlock for you .
Even though the Touch is wholly replacing the deadbolt in your door , it maintains Level ’ s sleek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blend in with normal life .
It does not look like smart lock from the outside or the inside — there are no hefty battery backs or motors glommed on to the inside of the door , nor are there any keypads or fingerprint scanners on the outside .
Instead , all of the electronics , motors , battery , and smarts are embedded inside the lock mount and the deadbolt itself , out of sight .
It is still compatible with the majority of deadbolts in US homes and occupies the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even boasts that you can install the Touch with just a single screwdriver in as little as ten minutes — no drilling or routing required .
The lock itself is made from stainless steel and Level claims it is certified to meet the highest industry standard for lock security and reliability .
The standard lever on the inside and keyhole on the outside mean you can also use it just like the deadbolt you currently have .
In addition to the new touch controls , the Touch lock also supports NFC access cards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lock .
You can program the cards using the Level app on your phone and give them access to multiple entrances or homes .
You can also remotely wipe the card or revoke access if it gets lost .
It ’ s not unlike the NFC guest key the Tesla Model 3 uses .
Level is also upgrading its mobile app to add features such as a vacation mode to extend battery life ; automatic lock and unlock when you leave and approach ; and a passes feature that provides access to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ share .
It ’ s designed to be used for meeting rooms and small offices where access needs to be remotely granted for a small group of people for a limited time .
In my test of the Level Bolt earlier this summer , one of my biggest complaints was how simple and underfeatured the app was , so it ’ s good to see Level is improving it .
These new app features will also be available for the Bolt , as well .
Like the Bolt , the Touch works with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet support Amazon Alexa or Google Home , though the company tells me it is working on adding support for other platforms .
The new auto lock and unlock feature in the app mean you won ’ t have to rely on HomeKit ’ s geofencing for that feature anymore , and it also extends it to Android users , which didn ’ t have any automatic unlock function available to them before .
If the original Level Bolt was a proof of concept that this kind of system or technology can work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complete realization of the idea .
It does have some shortcomings compared to the Bolt — you can ’ t use your existing keys with it , and two new keys come in the box , for example — but on most every front , it ’ s a fuller experience than what ’ s available with the Bolt .
The Level Touch ’ s price puts it at the very top of the smart lock market Still , the Level Touch ’ s price point puts it at the very top of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really have to value its sleek design to opt for it over the many other options available .
Level is leaning into that high-design and high-price with a partnership with high-end handle manufacturers to make levers and door handles that match the Touch ’ s design .
It ’ s also working on partnerships to embed its technology inside existing handle sets .
But for now , if you want to have the smarts of a smart lock without telling the whole world you have one , the Level Touch is for you @

Level is a relatively new company in the smart home scene, but today it’s announcing its second product of the year: the Level Touch. The Touch uses the same clever engineering and sleek design of the Level Bolt, but packages it into a full lock replacement and doesn’t rely on any existing deadbolt parts you may have. It costs $329 and is available in a variety of finishes from Level’s website starting today.
Though the Touch uses the same interior mechanism as the Bolt, it comes with a front bezel with a keyhole and a back bezel with a traditional lever, effectively replacing all of the parts of your door lock. By expanding to the outside components, Level is able to add capacitive touch to unlock or lock the door, authenticating over Bluetooth LE through the phone in your pocket. You can walk up to the door and just touch the outside of the lock to have it unlock for you.
There’s a smart lock in there, though you wouldn’t know it from a glance Photo: Level
Even though the Touch is wholly replacing the deadbolt in your door, it maintains Level’s sleek design and ethos that smart technology should blend in with normal life. It does not look like smart lock from the outside or the inside — there are no hefty battery backs or motors glommed on to the inside of the door, nor are there any keypads or fingerprint scanners on the outside.
Instead, all of the electronics, motors, battery, and smarts are embedded inside the lock mount and the deadbolt itself, out of sight. It is still compatible with the majority of deadbolts in US homes and occupies the same size as a standard deadbolt. Level even boasts that you can install the Touch with just a single screwdriver in as little as ten minutes — no drilling or routing required.
The lock itself is made from stainless steel and Level claims it is certified to meet the highest industry standard for lock security and reliability. The standard lever on the inside and keyhole on the outside mean you can also use it just like the deadbolt you currently have.
In addition to the new touch controls, the Touch lock also supports NFC access cards, two of which are included with the lock. You can program the cards using the Level app on your phone and give them access to multiple entrances or homes. You can also remotely wipe the card or revoke access if it gets lost. It’s not unlike the NFC guest key the Tesla Model 3 uses.
The Level Touch installs in the same way as a standard deadbolt with a single screwdriver Photo: Level
Level is also upgrading its mobile app to add features such as a vacation mode to extend battery life; automatic lock and unlock when you leave and approach; and a passes feature that provides access to a space through a link you can share. It’s designed to be used for meeting rooms and small offices where access needs to be remotely granted for a small group of people for a limited time. In my test of the Level Bolt earlier this summer, one of my biggest complaints was how simple and underfeatured the app was, so it’s good to see Level is improving it. These new app features will also be available for the Bolt, as well.
Like the Bolt, the Touch works with Apple HomeKit, but it does not yet support Amazon Alexa or Google Home, though the company tells me it is working on adding support for other platforms. The new auto lock and unlock feature in the app mean you won’t have to rely on HomeKit’s geofencing for that feature anymore, and it also extends it to Android users, which didn’t have any automatic unlock function available to them before.
If the original Level Bolt was a proof of concept that this kind of system or technology can work, the Level Touch is a more complete realization of the idea. It does have some shortcomings compared to the Bolt — you can’t use your existing keys with it, and two new keys come in the box, for example — but on most every front, it’s a fuller experience than what’s available with the Bolt.
The Level Touch’s price puts it at the very top of the smart lock market
Still, the Level Touch’s price point puts it at the very top of the smart lock market, and you really have to value its sleek design to opt for it over the many other options available. Level is leaning into that high-design and high-price with a partnership with high-end handle manufacturers to make levers and door handles that match the Touch’s design. It’s also working on partnerships to embed its technology inside existing handle sets.


theverge--2020-08-25--DJI Osmo Mobile 4 leaks with convenient magnetic quick mounts

DJI could be about to announce a new smartphone gimbal called the Osmo Mobile 4 — now abbreviated “ OM 4 ” — according to a new report from WinFuture .
A video short posted to Twitter by WinFuture ’ s Roland Quandt shows two new magnetic mounting mechanisms that let you quickly snap your smartphone into the mount , a big improvement over the previous model .
If this trailer is accurate , it could mean the new Osmo has addressed one of the biggest complaints we had about the Osmo Mobile 3 when we tried it out last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slide your smartphone into a claw mount , but now it looks like you pre-attach a magnetic disk or claw to the back of your phone , letting you quickly snap the handset into the gimbal with the help of magnets .
WinFuture has also published a pair of images of the two mounts , alongside a host of other images of the gimbal .
Otherwise , the trailer spends most of its run-time on the OM 4 ’ s software features .
It shows off a cool dynamic zoom feature , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move the camera forwards to create the classic Dolly zoom effect first popularized by Alfred Hitchcock .
Other features , like gesture control and hyperlapse , are returning from the Osmo Mobile 3 .
The Osmo Mobile 4 can reportedly be powered for up to 15-hours by a 2,450mAh battery that can be charged over USB-C. WinFuture says the Osmo Mobile 4 will retail for just under €150 , and is due to launch soon .
Update August 25th , 7:44AM ET : Updated with additional details from WinFuture .

DJI could be about to announce a new smartphone gimbal called the Osmo Mobile 4 — now abbreviated “OM 4” — according to a new report from WinFuture. A video short posted to Twitter by WinFuture’s Roland Quandt shows two new magnetic mounting mechanisms that let you quickly snap your smartphone into the mount, a big improvement over the previous model.
If this trailer is accurate, it could mean the new Osmo has addressed one of the biggest complaints we had about the Osmo Mobile 3 when we tried it out last year. Previously, you had to slide your smartphone into a claw mount, but now it looks like you pre-attach a magnetic disk or claw to the back of your phone, letting you quickly snap the handset into the gimbal with the help of magnets.
WinFuture has also published a pair of images of the two mounts, alongside a host of other images of the gimbal.
One mount appears to be a small magnetic ring... Image: WinFuture ... while the other shows a magnetic mounting bracket. Image: WinFuture
Otherwise, the trailer spends most of its run-time on the OM 4’s software features. It shows off a cool dynamic zoom feature, which appears to automatically zoom out as you move the camera forwards to create the classic Dolly zoom effect first popularized by Alfred Hitchcock. Other features, like gesture control and hyperlapse, are returning from the Osmo Mobile 3.
The Osmo Mobile 4 can reportedly be powered for up to 15-hours by a 2,450mAh battery that can be charged over USB-C. WinFuture says the Osmo Mobile 4 will retail for just under €150, and is due to launch soon.


theverge--2020-08-25--This gaming mouse has a built-in fan to cool sweaty palms

I ’ ll just come right out and say that I don ’ t really think I ’ ve ever had a problem with sweaty palms in the 25 years or so that I ’ ve been regularly using a mouse .
But my weather app is telling me it feels like 100°F in Tokyo today , and I am not looking forward to my electricity bill this month , so if I can shift even one percent of the cooling burden from my air conditioner to my PC ’ s USB port , why not ?
That ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes in .
It is , as far as I ’ m aware , the first ever gaming mouse with a built-in fan to cool your hand .
It ’ s available ( and fully funded ) for pre-order on Kickstarter now with prices starting at $ 89 and an estimated shipping date of October .
The Zephyr mouse is made possible by a type of design that ’ s become increasingly popular in the world of gaming mice over the past couple of years .
The chassis is heavily perforated with holes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look that comes with a few advantages from a gaming side .
First of all , it makes it a lot lighter at just 68g .
Second , it maximizes RGB lighting potential .
And third , yes , it improves airflow .
There ’ s a button on the underside of the Zephyr that allows you to activate the fan at various speeds .
The pre-production model I tested is apparently only running at 70 percent of its final power — such is life when it comes to checking out random Kickstarter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to produce a pretty noticeable high-pitched sound on any setting .
I don ’ t know if I ’ d be okay with whatever the 100 percent version sounds like without using headphones .
Unless the shipping version of the Zephyr mouse makes a big difference , you shouldn ’ t expect a strong cooling blast directly into your palm .
The effect is noticeable but generally pretty subtle , particularly when you ’ re actually using the mouse .
I found that it made more of an impression when returning to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minutes — the mouse felt unusually cool when I sat back down at the desk .
The fan seems to do a better job of cooling the mouse ’ s plastic frame than blasting air through its holes .
I wouldn ’ t really recommend the Zephyr based on its fan alone unless you ’ re sure it ’ d make a difference for you personally .
Fortunately , though , it ’ s a good gaming mouse in its own right .
The build is light but sturdy , the buttons all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is very responsive , and I can ’ t imagine anyone being disappointed with the extensive RGB lighting options .
Basically , this is a good gaming mouse at a decent price with a special niche feature of debatable value .
If a “ sweat-proof gaming mouse ” is a thing that appeals to you , I could certainly believe that this would be your best bet .
I ’ m just not personally looking for its particular unique selling point — but I have to admit that sometimes it ’ s nice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a cool mouse .

I’ll just come right out and say that I don’t really think I’ve ever had a problem with sweaty palms in the 25 years or so that I’ve been regularly using a mouse. But my weather app is telling me it feels like 100°F in Tokyo today, and I am not looking forward to my electricity bill this month, so if I can shift even one percent of the cooling burden from my air conditioner to my PC’s USB port, why not?
That’s where Mindshunter’s Zephyr Gaming Mouse comes in. It is, as far as I’m aware, the first ever gaming mouse with a built-in fan to cool your hand. It’s available (and fully funded) for pre-order on Kickstarter now with prices starting at $89 and an estimated shipping date of October.
The Zephyr mouse is made possible by a type of design that’s become increasingly popular in the world of gaming mice over the past couple of years. The chassis is heavily perforated with holes, giving it a webbed, honeycomb-style look that comes with a few advantages from a gaming side. First of all, it makes it a lot lighter at just 68g. Second, it maximizes RGB lighting potential.
And third, yes, it improves airflow.
The Zephyr mouse’s fan at full blast
There’s a button on the underside of the Zephyr that allows you to activate the fan at various speeds. The pre-production model I tested is apparently only running at 70 percent of its final power — such is life when it comes to checking out random Kickstarter products — but that’s enough to produce a pretty noticeable high-pitched sound on any setting. I don’t know if I’d be okay with whatever the 100 percent version sounds like without using headphones.
Related The best gaming mouse you can buy
Unless the shipping version of the Zephyr mouse makes a big difference, you shouldn’t expect a strong cooling blast directly into your palm. The effect is noticeable but generally pretty subtle, particularly when you’re actually using the mouse. I found that it made more of an impression when returning to the computer after stepping away for a few minutes — the mouse felt unusually cool when I sat back down at the desk. The fan seems to do a better job of cooling the mouse’s plastic frame than blasting air through its holes.
I wouldn’t really recommend the Zephyr based on its fan alone unless you’re sure it’d make a difference for you personally. Fortunately, though, it’s a good gaming mouse in its own right. The build is light but sturdy, the buttons all feel satisfyingly clicky, the 16,000-dpi sensor is very responsive, and I can’t imagine anyone being disappointed with the extensive RGB lighting options.
Basically, this is a good gaming mouse at a decent price with a special niche feature of debatable value. If a “sweat-proof gaming mouse” is a thing that appeals to you, I could certainly believe that this would be your best bet. I’m just not personally looking for its particular unique selling point — but I have to admit that sometimes it’s nice to sit down with a cool beverage and a cool mouse.
A note on crowdfunding: Crowdfunding is a chaotic field by nature: companies looking for funding tend to make big promises. According to a study run by Kickstarter in 2015, roughly 1 in 10 “successful” products that reach their funding goals fail to actually deliver rewards. Of the ones that do deliver, delays, missed deadlines, or overpromised ideas mean that there’s often disappointment in store for those products that do get done. The best defense is to use your best judgment. Ask yourself: does the product look legitimate? Is the company making outlandish claims? Is there a working prototype? Does the company mention existing plans to manufacture and ship finished products? Has it completed a Kickstarter before? And remember: you’re not necessarily buying a product when you back it on a crowdfunding site.


theverge--2020-08-25--Apple and Epic have to win over more than just a judge

Yesterday saw the first of what promises to be many , many hearings in the Apple vs Epic legal battle over Apple ’ s App Store policies and fees .
That first hearing was preliminary to the preliminaries , merely designed to see if Apple should be forced to reinstate Epic ’ s developer privileges immediately while the court figures out whether the company should reinstate Epic ’ s privileges temporarily for the duration of the trial .
A decision came in the wee hours of the night .
As Russell Brandom explains , Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Epic Games by terminating the company ’ s Apple developer accounts or restricting use of Epic ’ s Unreal Engine by developers on Apple platforms .
But in the same ruling ... Apple will not be required to bring Fortnite — which it had banned after Epic added an in-app payment system in violation of Apple ’ s rules — back to the App Store.
” For more detail , read this article from Brandom , and this live tweet thread from Sarah Jeong is a blast .
I personally find these big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get to see a completely different side of these companies and the executives that run them .
And the discovery !
These trials mean that both sides get to demand documents and emails that would otherwise never see the light of day .
The thing hasn ’ t even started yet and we ’ ve already gotten a chance to see the emails between Epic and Apple that led to Fortnite ’ s App Store ban .
As per usual , there are two trials starting : the actual legal battle and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actually papers over just how complex the jury pool for the court of public opinion really is .
There ’ s a bunch of constituencies both Apple and Epic would like to win over , and all of them have varying degrees of importance to each company .
I ’ m going to go through a few of them in order from least important to most important : • There ’ s the general , non-Fortnite playing set of iPhone users .
Sorry to say , I don ’ t think this group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Most people will reasonably only pay a tiny amount of attention to this fight , if any at all .
( Though I have to say , the amount of “ discussion ” I ’ m seeing on Twitter is setting off my sock-puppet-are-they-bots spidey sense . )
• There ’ s the kids who love and play Fortnite .
Will they eventually vote with their dollars — or their parents ’ dollars ?
I tweeted a half-joke poll asking the teens of America if they were forced to choose between iMessage and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
It was iMessage running away .
Even if Epic ’ s PR blitz manages to garner a bunch of sympathy , sympathy is not a more powerful force than the stigma of the Green Bubble in the group chat .
• There are other companies .
Microsoft has already come out in support of Epic — perhaps not in support of Epic ’ s full suite of tactics , but in support of keeping Epic ’ s Unreal game engine from getting cut off .
( Microsoft says Forza is at risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . )
The best thing about Microsoft ’ s brief is how it holds the idea of “ click-through , non negotiable contracts ” in such disdain .
Me too .
Anyway , the point is that if Apple suddenly finds itself alone and faced with amicus briefs from all of its frenemy multi-billion dollar competitors , that changes the tenor of the discussion .
• Then you have legislators and regulators .
They will be watching this case — and Apple ’ s App Store behavior more generally — very closely .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ much appetite there is in the US for regulating Apple or the App Store specifically , but it poses a larger risk than the outcome of this trial .
Whether or not Apple wins on the legal merits against Epic now doesn ’ t mean that the people who make the laws can ’ t change them in the future .
I ’ d say this is the most important jury pool , but the reality is that it moves slowly and Apple will have plenty of time to deal with them later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developers .
I ’ m not suggesting that a bunch of iPhone devs are going to pull up stakes and head over to Android country anytime soon — there ’ s frankly less money there .
But I am saying that developers have to make business decisions and weigh risks .
Apple has clearly decided to become more stringent in enforcing certain App Store policies , which has made some of the inevitably inconsistent instances of rulings that much higher profile .
The latest was the Wordpress blogging app , which was rejected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way that was frankly incoherent .
Apple ultimately apologized to WordPress and won ’ t force the free app to add purchases after all .
If the company is looking to get more developers on its side , this was not the way to go about it .
Note also that Apple ’ s statement says ( emphasis mine ) “ Since the developer removed the display of their service payment options from the app , it is now a free stand-alone app and does not have to offer in-app purchases.
” This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that it wasn ’ t a “ free stand-alone app ” before .
Whether or not a developer happens to admit that there are ways to pay for things outside the App Store doesn ’ t have any impact on whether or not their app is free .
Therein lies Apple ’ s most immediate risk .
Talented programmers have any number of things they could spend their time and resources on .
If they sour on Apple for any reason — business , concern over unpredictable policies , or just plain disliking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s a problem .
It may be one of those “ you don ’ t know that you ’ re missing what you ’ re missing until it ’ s gone ” problems , too : just a slow petering out of enthusiasm .
That ’ s fixable , but few companies have been able to turn that kind of slide around .
And for Apple , it would come at one of the worst possible times .
The company is about to embark on a massive project to make iOS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many of the design philosophies from the iPad over as well .
It will want developers engaged and interested in tweaking their apps to take advantage of that opportunity .
Epic , meanwhile , needs to convince many of those same constituencies and has risks that are perhaps more existential .
If you ’ re a game developer , do you want to use the Unreal game engine that ’ s inextricably tied to what might be a quixotic campaign from the CEO of Epic ?
Or do you just use Unity instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in popularity and may get even more resources from an upcoming IPO ?
Unless somebody blinks , the court battle between Epic and Apple is going to take a very , very long time .
Due process is a slow process .
The various juries outside the courtroom , however , could start making up their minds a whole lot faster .
┏ Samsung ’ s Galaxy Z Fold 2 doesn ’ t have a release date , but you can already watch this review .
┏ This could be the first real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specs are better than the first ones that were floating around .
There ’ s reason to be hopeful here , especially when it comes to the battery and camera choices .
Google already does a nearly comparable job with digital zoom via its algorithms compared to many phone telephoto lenses , so swapping in an ultrawide is the right call .
Still , though , it is pretty wild that Google is reportedly still using the exact same Sony sensor it has for years .
Kim Lyons : ┏ A new 5G @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keyboard will arrive in 2021 .
┏ Zoom is coming to Google Nest , Amazon Echo , and Facebook Portal smart displays .
Oh Google , you : ┏ How to get Microsoft ’ s xCloud and stream Xbox games on your phone right now .
If you have a game controller , I can ’ t recommend enough at least trying this for a month .
It ’ s really good .
┏ Sony is making it easier to use its digital cameras as webcams on Windows .
I use a Sony @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capture card and pretty much every video call with a new person starts with a compliment .
If you have a nice camera around that could work with software like this ( similar software is available for other brands ) , it ’ s absolutely worth the time to set it up .
┏ Google ’ s Pixel Buds sound noticeably better with new bass boost , but connectivity issues remain .
I agree with Chris Welch ’ s assessment after just a day of use .
The fact that I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( like in my kitchen ) is a huge bummer .
Google made a good start with this new Pixel Buds design , but they ’ re clearly a V1 product — hopefully there will be a version 2 .
Version 2s are far , far , far from guaranteed in Google Hardware World , though .
┏ Brydge ’ s latest keyboards turn a Surface Pro or Go into a standard laptop .
These seem nice , but I don ’ t really get it myself .
Defeats the whole purpose of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s the best student laptop ?
We asked students .
Monica Chin has a really solid list here , focusing on how different students have different needs .
Related : I bought an Asus Rog Zephyrus G14 gaming laptop on the strength of Chin ’ s recommendation and I am very , very excited to dip my toes back into PC gaming again .
┏ The best accessories to improve your school from home experience .
More from The Verge ┏ The epic campaign to win Elon Musk ’ s Tesla factory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ O ’ Kane .
┏ An innocent typo led to a giant 212-story obelisk in Microsoft Flight Simulator .
Love this story !
┏ Please remain calm while the robot swabs your nose .
I got my first COVID-19 swab test yesterday and I ’ m just going to say the comfort of having it administered by a human who can look at your face and knows from experience which expressions mean “ this is weird ” and which ones mean “ oh god I ’ m going to sneeze and/or cough and/or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
┏ Sorry to inform you an asteroid will not be taking out Earth right before Election Day .
Bad news : that asteroid won ’ t destroy the Earth the day before the election .
Good news : asteroid detection , while incredibly comprehensive and accurate , is not perfect .
So we could all still be immolated in a fiery conflagration at any moment .
┏ Houses are influencers now , and this one burned to the ground .
Incredible story about a community of influencers from Ashley Carman .
Disclosure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Store , including setting policies for that store .
I recuse myself from reporting on Oculus , VR , and Facebook and so am not familiar with what Oculus ’ policies are .
Here ’ s my ethics statement .

Yesterday saw the first of what promises to be many, many hearings in the Apple vs Epic legal battle over Apple’s App Store policies and fees. That first hearing was preliminary to the preliminaries, merely designed to see if Apple should be forced to reinstate Epic’s developer privileges immediately while the court figures out whether the company should reinstate Epic’s privileges temporarily for the duration of the trial.
A decision came in the wee hours of the night.
As Russell Brandom explains, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that “Apple can’t retaliate against Epic Games by terminating the company’s Apple developer accounts or restricting use of Epic’s Unreal Engine by developers on Apple platforms. But in the same ruling... Apple will not be required to bring Fortnite — which it had banned after Epic added an in-app payment system in violation of Apple’s rules — back to the App Store.”
I personally find these big tech trials fascinating and fun — you get to see a completely different side of these companies and the executives that run them. And the discovery! These trials mean that both sides get to demand documents and emails that would otherwise never see the light of day. The thing hasn’t even started yet and we’ve already gotten a chance to see the emails between Epic and Apple that led to Fortnite’s App Store ban.
You are reading Processor, a newsletter about computers, software, and tech by Dieter Bohn. Dieter writes about consumer tech, software, and the most important tech news of the day from The Verge. You can read an archive of Processor newsletters here and subscribe to all of The Verge’s great videos here! Subscribe
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As per usual, there are two trials starting: the actual legal battle and the PR battle. But that second cliche actually papers over just how complex the jury pool for the court of public opinion really is. There’s a bunch of constituencies both Apple and Epic would like to win over, and all of them have varying degrees of importance to each company. I’m going to go through a few of them in order from least important to most important:
There’s the general, non-Fortnite playing set of iPhone users . Sorry to say, I don’t think this group is going to have much influence. Most people will reasonably only pay a tiny amount of attention to this fight, if any at all. (Though I have to say, the amount of “discussion” I’m seeing on Twitter is setting off my sock-puppet-are-they-bots spidey sense.)
. Sorry to say, I don’t think this group is going to have much influence. Most people will reasonably only pay a tiny amount of attention to this fight, if any at all. (Though I have to say, the amount of “discussion” I’m seeing on Twitter is setting off my sock-puppet-are-they-bots spidey sense.) There’s the kids who love and play Fortnite . Will they eventually vote with their dollars — or their parents’ dollars? I tweeted a half-joke poll asking the teens of America if they were forced to choose between iMessage and Fortnite, which one would they choose? It was iMessage running away. Even if Epic’s PR blitz manages to garner a bunch of sympathy, sympathy is not a more powerful force than the stigma of the Green Bubble in the group chat.
. Will they eventually vote with their dollars — or their parents’ dollars? I tweeted a half-joke poll asking the teens of America if they were forced to choose between iMessage and Fortnite, which one would they choose? It was iMessage running away. Even if Epic’s PR blitz manages to garner a bunch of sympathy, sympathy is not a more powerful force than the stigma of the Green Bubble in the group chat. There are other companies . Microsoft has already come out in support of Epic — perhaps not in support of Epic’s full suite of tactics, but in support of keeping Epic’s Unreal game engine from getting cut off. (Microsoft says Forza is at risk from Apple’s Unreal Engine cutoff.) The best thing about Microsoft’s brief is how it holds the idea of “click-through, non negotiable contracts” in such disdain. Me too. Anyway, the point is that if Apple suddenly finds itself alone and faced with amicus briefs from all of its frenemy multi-billion dollar competitors, that changes the tenor of the discussion.
. Microsoft has already come out in support of Epic — perhaps not in support of Epic’s full suite of tactics, but in support of keeping Epic’s Unreal game engine from getting cut off. (Microsoft says Forza is at risk from Apple’s Unreal Engine cutoff.) The best thing about Microsoft’s brief is how it holds the idea of “click-through, non negotiable contracts” in such disdain. Me too. Anyway, the point is that if Apple suddenly finds itself alone and faced with amicus briefs from all of its frenemy multi-billion dollar competitors, that changes the tenor of the discussion. Then you have legislators and regulators. They will be watching this case — and Apple’s App Store behavior more generally — very closely. We don’t know yet how much appetite there is in the US for regulating Apple or the App Store specifically, but it poses a larger risk than the outcome of this trial. Whether or not Apple wins on the legal merits against Epic now doesn’t mean that the people who make the laws can’t change them in the future. I’d say this is the most important jury pool, but the reality is that it moves slowly and Apple will have plenty of time to deal with them later.
They will be watching this case — and Apple’s App Store behavior more generally — very closely. We don’t know yet how much appetite there is in the US for regulating Apple or the App Store specifically, but it poses a larger risk than the outcome of this trial. Whether or not Apple wins on the legal merits against Epic now doesn’t mean that the people who make the laws can’t change them in the future. I’d say this is the most important jury pool, but the reality is that it moves slowly and Apple will have plenty of time to deal with them later. Finally and most importantly: developers. I’m not suggesting that a bunch of iPhone devs are going to pull up stakes and head over to Android country anytime soon — there’s frankly less money there. But I am saying that developers have to make business decisions and weigh risks. Apple has clearly decided to become more stringent in enforcing certain App Store policies, which has made some of the inevitably inconsistent instances of rulings that much higher profile.
The latest was the Wordpress blogging app, which was rejected for not having in-app purchases in a way that was frankly incoherent. Apple ultimately apologized to WordPress and won’t force the free app to add purchases after all.
If the company is looking to get more developers on its side, this was not the way to go about it. Note also that Apple’s statement says (emphasis mine) “Since the developer removed the display of their service payment options from the app, it is now a free stand-alone app and does not have to offer in-app purchases.” This is an attempt to make you think that it wasn’t a “free stand-alone app” before. Whether or not a developer happens to admit that there are ways to pay for things outside the App Store doesn’t have any impact on whether or not their app is free.
Therein lies Apple’s most immediate risk. Talented programmers have any number of things they could spend their time and resources on. If they sour on Apple for any reason — business, concern over unpredictable policies, or just plain disliking how they’re being treated — it’s a problem. It may be one of those “you don’t know that you’re missing what you’re missing until it’s gone” problems, too: just a slow petering out of enthusiasm.
That’s fixable, but few companies have been able to turn that kind of slide around. And for Apple, it would come at one of the worst possible times. The company is about to embark on a massive project to make iOS apps work on the Mac and bring many of the design philosophies from the iPad over as well. It will want developers engaged and interested in tweaking their apps to take advantage of that opportunity.
Epic, meanwhile, needs to convince many of those same constituencies and has risks that are perhaps more existential. If you’re a game developer, do you want to use the Unreal game engine that’s inextricably tied to what might be a quixotic campaign from the CEO of Epic? Or do you just use Unity instead, especially as that company is gaining in popularity and may get even more resources from an upcoming IPO?
Unless somebody blinks, the court battle between Epic and Apple is going to take a very, very long time. Due process is a slow process. The various juries outside the courtroom, however, could start making up their minds a whole lot faster.
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Tech news
┏ This could be the first real picture of the Pixel 5. These specs are better than the first ones that were floating around. There’s reason to be hopeful here, especially when it comes to the battery and camera choices. Google already does a nearly comparable job with digital zoom via its algorithms compared to many phone telephoto lenses, so swapping in an ultrawide is the right call. Still, though, it is pretty wild that Google is reportedly still using the exact same Sony sensor it has for years. Kim Lyons:
If the new Reddit image is legit, it would also seem to confirm those specs to be accurate, and agrees with rumors the Pixel 5 would have a Snapdragon 765G processor. The new information also indicates it will have a 4,000 mAh battery, 8GB of RAM, and a 90Hz display. The back will be plastic, and there’s no 3.5mm headphone jack, if this information is correct. Like the Pixel 4, the Pixel 5 should have a 0.5x wide-angle lens, as well as a 12.2MP main camera.
Google, on the other hand, will be relying on the strength of its Calendar and Assistant services, which will be able to automatically pull in existing Zoom meetings directly from your calendar and allow users to start meetings with voice commands like “Hey Google, join my next meeting.” (Unfortunately, the fact that Google limits Nest Hubs to a single account means that it’ll be less useful for juggling work and personal Zoom meetings.)
┏ How to get Microsoft’s xCloud and stream Xbox games on your phone right now. If you have a game controller, I can’t recommend enough at least trying this for a month. It’s really good.
┏ Sony is making it easier to use its digital cameras as webcams on Windows. I use a Sony camera as my webcam via an HDMI capture card and pretty much every video call with a new person starts with a compliment. If you have a nice camera around that could work with software like this (similar software is available for other brands), it’s absolutely worth the time to set it up.
Reviews and news
┏ Google’s Pixel Buds sound noticeably better with new bass boost, but connectivity issues remain. I agree with Chris Welch’s assessment after just a day of use. The fact that I’m getting drop outs in totally non-challenging situations (like in my kitchen) is a huge bummer. Google made a good start with this new Pixel Buds design, but they’re clearly a V1 product — hopefully there will be a version 2. Version 2s are far, far, far from guaranteed in Google Hardware World, though.
After some time listening to the Pixel Buds today, I’d say Google succeeded at the first bit; bass boost makes for a very real improvement to sound quality if you were disappointed by low-end performance before. But the Pixel Buds’ wireless signal is still weaker than it should be, and the frustrating music disruptions remain.
┏ Brydge’s latest keyboards turn a Surface Pro or Go into a standard laptop. These seem nice, but I don’t really get it myself. Defeats the whole purpose of getting a Surface tablet.
┏ Acer’s Swift 3 is a solid laptop for students. Monica Chin reviews:
Overall, the Swift 3’s sturdy build, decent battery, and compact form render it a solid choice for its target demographic: students and anyone else looking for a portable device that won’t break the bank. It’s not the best laptop on the market in any of those categories — but it’s one of the best at its price point in all of them.
┏ What’s the best student laptop? We asked students. Monica Chin has a really solid list here, focusing on how different students have different needs. Related: I bought an Asus Rog Zephyrus G14 gaming laptop on the strength of Chin’s recommendation and I am very, very excited to dip my toes back into PC gaming again.
More from The Verge
┏ The epic campaign to win Elon Musk’s Tesla factory with memes. Incredible story from Sean O’Kane.
┏ An innocent typo led to a giant 212-story obelisk in Microsoft Flight Simulator. Love this story!
┏ Please remain calm while the robot swabs your nose. I got my first COVID-19 swab test yesterday and I’m just going to say the comfort of having it administered by a human who can look at your face and knows from experience which expressions mean “this is weird” and which ones mean “oh god I’m going to sneeze and/or cough and/or lose it” cannot be overstated.
┏ Sorry to inform you an asteroid will not be taking out Earth right before Election Day. Bad news: that asteroid won’t destroy the Earth the day before the election. Good news: asteroid detection, while incredibly comprehensive and accurate, is not perfect. So we could all still be immolated in a fiery conflagration at any moment.
┏ Houses are influencers now, and this one burned to the ground. Incredible story about a community of influencers from Ashley Carman.
The online restoration community has been growing for years, fueled by accounts that share homes in need of saving. (“Saving” a home is the community’s preferred term for buying and fixing an old building. The idea is to never tear down a worthy place and, really, not to flip them, either.)