Samsung today unveiled Galaxy S22 and S22+, two flagship devices that power creativity and self-expression.

Galaxy S22 and S22+ introduce dynamic cameras with advanced intelligent image processing to make every moment epic.

Built with a bold, sustainably conscious design, Galaxy S22 and S22+ are designed to be both beautiful and environmentally conscious.

“Our smartphone cameras have transformed the way we create, share, and communicate. Through photos and videos, we express ourselves and connect with the people we care about,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Samsung Electronics’ MX (Mobile experience) Business. “That’s why we focused on designing our latest S series devices with ground-breaking camera capabilities that work day and night, powered by our best mobile performance yet.”

Galaxy S22 and S22+ are designed to deliver next-level camera experiences, so people can connect and share wherever they are. With the Galaxy S22 series’ revolutionary new Nightography features, like the 23% larger sensor than S21 and S21+ and Adaptive Pixel technology – your camera is designed to let in more light, draw out details, and capture colours that make your content pop, even in the dark.

Both Galaxy S22 and S22+ are built with a powerful 50MP main camera, 10MP tele-lens, and 12MP ultra-wide lens, so you always get the high quality shots. When you’re capturing videos with friends, the new Auto Framing feature detects and tracks up to 10 people and automatically adjusts the camera’s focus, so your camera captures everyone clearly.

Both devices are powered by advanced VDIS technology which minimises vibrations, so you get smooth, sharp footage even when you’re on the move.

Galaxy S22 and S22+ are also equipped with Samsung’s latest AI technology that takes your photos to the next level. It’s easy to take perfect Portrait Mode photos with the new AI Stereo Depth Map, and your subjects will look better than ever with even the smallest details appearing crisp and clear thanks to a sophisticated AI algorithm.

The same works for your favourite furry friend: Galaxy S22 / S22+’s new Portrait mode helps prevent pet hair from blending into the background, so you always get the best shot of your pet.

From work to home, Galaxy S22 and S22+ are designed to power you through even the busiest days with the first-ever 4nm processor on a Galaxy smartphone.

It powers our most advanced AI and ML processing to date, delivering unrivalled performance for all your streaming and productivity needs. What’s more, network behaviour analysis streamlines your app performance by automatically detecting which app you’re using and directing the most power there – so streaming, surfing the web, and navigating apps have never been smoother.

A lightning-fast processor demands power that can keep pace. Galaxy S22 is built with a robust all-day battery and 25W fast charging that never slows you down, and Galaxy S22+ features a super powerful battery that can last even longer than a day on a single charge. Galaxy S22+ also offers 45W super-fast charging, so you don’t have to wait when your power is running low.

Streaming a movie or your favourite show will look even better on Galaxy S22 and S22+’s beautiful displays. Both devices come equipped with a Dynamic AMOLED 2x adaptive 120Hz display, designed for the best in gaming and watching.

Whether you choose Galaxy S22’s premium 6.1-inch display or Galaxy S22+’s 6.6-inch, each screen is built with intelligent Vision Booster technology that automatically adjusts the display to the lighting around you and enhances the colour contrast, so you can enjoy the best possible view of your content.

Plus, hardware performance enhancements have improved display brightness – S22 has a peak brightness of 1,300nit while S22+ features a peak 1,750nit.

S22 and S22+ will also ensure you can always stay connected and collaborative. Through Samsung’s partnership with Google, you can enjoy Google Duo live sharing to view photos in Gallery with friends or write meeting notes with colleagues on Samsung Notes – even while you’re apart.

Both Galaxy S22 and S22+ feature the S series’ iconic, fan-favourite Contour-Cut design that blends the camera seamlessly into the housing.

To create a sleeker and more refined look, Samsung built both devices with a distinctive flat display, complete with a luxurious glass and haze finish. Now, the S series camera housing is designed to match the colour of the device’s body with a slim and symmetric metal frame for a seamless look. The result is a balanced, unified design that’s modern, fashionable, and sleek.

Both the Samsung Galaxy S22 and S22+ are available in Phantom Black, Phantom White, Green, and Pink Gold.

The Galaxy S22 Series presents Samsung’s most durable mobile devices yet.

Galaxy S22 and S22+ are the first S series models made with Armour Aluminium – Samsung’s strongest aluminium frame, so you can take your phone anywhere with peace of mind. The Galaxy S22 series is also the first Galaxy smartphones to feature new Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+.

The S22 series devices are equipped with this tough glass on the front and back, so you can worry less about accidental drops.

But Samsung know true durability is not just about hardware. As part of their commitment to giving users the best possible mobile performance and experience, the entire Galaxy S22 series will be supported by up to four generations of Android OS upgrades.

Now millions of Galaxy users can take advantage of the latest security, productivity and other exciting new features, for longer. Samsung will scale this effort across our product line-up to ensure you’re fully supported across your Galaxy ecosystem.

The Galaxy S series also makes it easy to make your phone your own.

You can use Samsung’s clean and intuitive new One UI user interface to customise the look and feel of your home screen and widget. Tailor your icon colours, widgets, colour palette, and more to your personal preferences, and create a mobile experience that reflects who you are. One UI also gives you easy access to a wealth of emoji’s, GIFs, and stickers directly on your keyboard, so you can instantly communicate exactly how you feel without typing a single word.

The Galaxy S22 series is secured by Samsung’s powerful Knox Vault security platform, which includes a secure processor and memory that completely isolates sensitive data like your passwords, biometrics, or Blockchain keys from the phone’s main operating system.

One UI’s privacy dashboard and Indicator make it easy to see which apps are accessing your data and camera, so you can decide whether to grant or deny permission to each app. The Galaxy S22 series also introduces several new security features, including ARM micro architecture, which helps prevent cyberattacks that target your operating system and memory.

Plus, the Galaxy S22 series brings you Samsung Wallet – a seamless, convenient and secure experience to make everyday life easier. Samsung Wallet combines digital payment, ID, keys and asset management into one tool to simplify your routines, from showing your student ID to compiling travel documents before a flight.

Alongside the new S22 series, Samsung is introducing an all new line of tablets and a pack of updated features for Galaxy Watch4 so that Galaxy users can stay connected in every aspect of their lives.

Built for a new era of connectivity, Galaxy Tab S8 series­, including Tab S8, Tab S8+ and Tab S8 Ultra – is Samsung’s most versatile line of tablets ever, built and designed to meet the ever-changing needs of those who work, study, play and create.

Starting on March 4th, 2022, Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+ will be widely available in carrier and unlocked by Samsung versions through Samsung’s official website, carriers and retailers online. Pre-order starts now.

The post New Samsung Galaxy S22 & S22+ Deliver Revolutionary Camera Experiences appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

A few months back OPPO released the second version of their flagship X Series.

Unlike the first Find X which was an unexpected innovation in it’s own right, the X2 Pro 5G took a more standard device approach, all the while adding enough high-spec goodness and a rich and vibrant FHD waterfall display.

But I am not going to re-review the handset, we already did that here.

This feature is putting the OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G through it’s mobile gaming paces and seeing what it’s like as a serious gaming platform.

Receiving the very delicious looking Orange Vegan Leather edition for this feature – this particular model not only has a rear casing that all other smartphones need to be envious of, it also comes with 512GB storage – double the capacity of the other non-Vegan X2 Pro.

The smartphone is powered by a Snapdragon 865 processor.

This means  you can get more gaming goodness (or other stuff) installed and stored on it.

The 12GB RAM meant that the smartphone wouldn’t choke either, even when multiple apps are running in the background while playing something resource intensive.

Usually I would start of easy and go for a couple of classic titles from the Google Play Store.

This time round I skipped those and went directly in to the heavy stuff.

First up was a couple of Gameloft titles.

Asphalt 9 is a high adrenalin, sizeable in data storage title with console like gameplay and graphics.

It requires a high refresh rate (minimum of 60hz) as each race is a chaotic splendour of metal twisting super charge fly off the track ride.

The OPPO Find X2 5G offers up both 60Hz and 120Hz. In either refresh rate the device played superbly and while hard to notice at first glance, using the natively built-in 120Hz refresh did give for a slightly less jaggy experience. And I do mean slight.

Gameloft’s second title; Dungeon Hunter 5 is a Diablo-like top down RPG / hack n slash.

An engrossing and indepth play in offline as it is online.

Again a sizeable footprint is required for the game to store on your smartphone and once in to play the graphics are again that of a home console.

While this one can have many a quiet moment as you run about exploring it get’s fierce in battles as anywhere from a handful to hordes of enemies can be on screen at one time along with some large Boss-like foes.

The OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G handled gameplay, well, like a pro. This particular game has been a stutter play on a couple of mid to high range devices over the past 12 months, but it was fluid and seamless throughout a two hour session on the Find X2 Pro 5G.

To almost round off, a new comer to the Google Play Store and console quality RPG’s is the third person Pascal’s Wager.

Think Dark Souls – but a bit more playable (where you don’t die in 5 seconds from the start). Being that it is in third person and a full roam richly detailed environment means that the smartphone you play it on needs to be able to render both environment, NPC’s and you as the main character.

The download time on 4G or 5G on the OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G took a while. The game needs to download just under 1GB. Again, on OPPO’s flagship, internal storage is not a problem.

Getting in to play it all started off okay but then became a bit janky with graphics. Switching over to the 120Hz framerate resolved that in an instant.

I also needed to close down another game which was still running in the background.

Call of Duty Mobile – a known resource eater also played perfectly and was dazzling in both 60Hz and 120Hz.

The intuitive screen is also great for it’s touch controls – but my advice is to always use a gamepad if you’re playing something that requires a bit more depth in to it’s play.

Last up was Mario Kart, released by Nintendo for mobile.

True this is the lighter one of all of the above mentioned – but it does need to talk to Nintendo’s servers as you play (you are required to have a Nintendo account or sign up for one before you start out).

Bearing in mind that there is a background process of data continually exchanging throughout your races I tested this one not for it’s grinding labour on the smartphone but to see how well it would do on both 4G and 5G.

4G had a couple of moments where it appeared the phone needed some more time to upload to Nintendo’s cloud – this was shortly after finishing a race.

5G however no time was really needed and there were very little wait or hold times during and after racing.

The OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G is marked as one of the top mobile gaming devices you could own. OPPO have also builtin ‘Game Space’ an app which you can include your games in to – shut off all notifications and interruptions and even tweak the settings in to an ‘over-clock’ like status called Competition Mode.

Going in to this over-clock does impact the battery significantly.

On normal play mode I can get 2 to 4 hours of game time from a full charge and have around half charge left. In this more hardcore setting the battery started screaming for it’s life in just over 4 hours.

The OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G has a 4,260mAh battery with quick charge feature.

If you’re looking at an OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G to get yourself in to some serious game time – or to replace an aging phone that you’ve been trying to game on, the higher spec’d Orange Vegan Leather clad one is the device to go for.

Whether you’re wanting to go against mates in Call of Duty Mobile, quietly hack n slash and explore in RPG’s or race on the go OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G doesn’t miss a beat.

It’s totally built for gaming.

The post Gaming on OPPO Find X2 Pro appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Today, Samsung Electronics hosted its first-ever Galaxy Unpacked virtual event livestreamed from Korea to introduce a new suite of power devices.

Five devices were revealed during the event, that seamlessly integrate to empower consumers navigating a rapidly changing world : Galaxy Note20 and Galaxy Note20 Ultra, the most powerful Note line yet; Tab S7 and S7+, versatile tablets for productivity and creativity; Galaxy Watch3, a premium smartwatch along with advanced health features; Galaxy Buds Live, stylish and ergonomic earbuds with superior sound quality; and Galaxy Z Fold2, the next generation foldable smartphone with enhanced refinements.

“Never before have we relied on technology like we are today. It’s how we are staying connected as we navigate the extraordinary challenges faced around the world," said Dr. TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. "Technology must make life easier, not more complex.

That’s why we have introduced five new power devices. Alone, these devices are powerful tools to help you maximise work and play. Together, as part of the Galaxy ecosystem, they work together seamlessly so you can spend your time focused on what matters most.”

Galaxy Note20 series is a productivity powerhouse that works like a computer and lets you game like a pro. The series comes in two versions: Galaxy Note20 Ultra, designed for Note fans who demand the ultimate in power and productivity, and Galaxy Note20, for broader Note users looking to maximise their time for work and play. Both are built for efficiency, so you have more time to stay connected with the people you love.

Today, we need devices that are as flexible as we are, so we can work, play and connect however we want. Take your productivity to the next level with the Galaxy Note20 series. Samsung’s latest Note series transforms the way you work, empowering you to do more anytime from anywhere.

Now, on the Galaxy Note20 series, new S Pen and Samsung Notes features provide an even more powerful experience and extend to Galaxy Tab S7 and Tab S7+ for flexibility and convenience. Plus, a deeper relationship with Samsung’s long-standing partner, Microsoft, helps the Galaxy Note20 series and your Windows PC seamlessly work together.

A favourite among Note loyalists and multitaskers, the Galaxy Note20 series’ enhanced S Pen offers the ultimate writing experience so you can capture your ideas whenever inspiration strikes. The S Pen on the Galaxy Note20 series has more lifelike precision that gives you more accuracy and responsiveness. The S Pen’s five new anywhere actions makes touchless navigation of your device – like returning to the home screen or taking a screenshot – as simple as a flick of the wrist.

We need tools designed to let us work from anywhere, anytime, on any device. To help you capture, edit and share your ideas across your phone, tablet or PC, Samsung Notes features auto-save and syncing capabilities, so lost work becomes a thing of the past. Samsung Notes automatically converts even the messiest handwriting into legible penmanship. Giving feedback on the go is also easy now that you can edit, annotate and highlight PDFs or Microsoft PowerPoint presentations in Samsung Notes.

Use the new option to record audio as you jot down notes, and just tap a word in your notes to go to that moment in the recording. And keep it all organised with a new, intuitive folder management that makes everything easier to find.

Microsoft’s Your Phone app with Link to Windows integration now enables you to easily access your mobile apps directly from your Windows 10 PC without disrupting your flow. It’s simple and convenient to send messages, manage notifications, sync photos and make and receive calls all from your Windows 10 PC. Add your favourite mobile apps to your Taskbar or Start menu so you won’t have to search your phone for your favourite social networking apps or Gallery. Later this year, you will have the ability to run multiple apps side by side on your Windows 10 PC. And all your productivity ecosystems can be aligned across devices when Samsung Notes app syncs to Microsoft OneNote and Outlook, and your Reminders sync with Microsoft Outlook, To Do and Teams so everything you need is at your fingertips, no matter where you are.

Samsung is also bringing its Microsoft partnership to the entertainment side of Galaxy Note20 series, taking virtual play to the next level. Fully immerse yourself in the most powerful mobile gaming experience Samsung has ever engineered into a smartphone, so you can game like a pro from your couch, backyard, or around the house. Galaxy Note20 series comes packed with next-level performance, connectivity and our best display yet. Plus, Galaxy Note20 series packs pro-grade tools to capture stunning photos and create cinematic videos and offers advanced multitasking experiences.

Enjoy your favourite mobile games on our latest Galaxy Note20 series, the pro-gaming set-up that fits in your pocket. Every level and battle can be powered by hyper-fast, ultra-low latency 5G and the Galaxy Note20 is optimised for Wi-Fi 6. Large and immersive display with smooth gaming experience thanks to our fastest processor in a Galaxy yet, Galaxy Note20 series is a pro-gaming set-up that fits in your pocket. What’s more, with our 120hz Display and dual AKG speakers with Dolby Atmos, your gaming experience becomes smoother and more immersive giving you the competitive edge against your online opponents.

With 21:9 aspect ratio and 24fps recording, Galaxy Note20 series’ 8K camera now gives you access ultra-high resolution and a professional quality video experience. Use powerful Pro Video 7 mode with pro-grade focus, audio, exposure, lighting, zoom tools, and 120fps shooting at FHD options for cinematic-style videos. New Laser
Auto-Focus Sensor on Galaxy Note20 Ultra accurate focusing, plus Live Focus Video gives your shots real world depth. Pro lenses and advanced Space Zoom allow you to photograph scenes in gorgeous detail. You can also control and adjust the Galaxy Note20 mic directions where you want sound to come through clearly. Paired with Galaxy Buds Live, you can record crystal-clear audio even with background noise.

For the first time with Samsung DeX 8, wirelessly connect the Galaxy Note20 series to a Smart TV when you need a bigger screen.

Manage two screens simultaneously so you can text with your friends on the Galaxy Note20 series while watching a video on a Smart TV.

The Galaxy Note has cemented its status as the ultimate power phone. Galaxy Note20 series continues that legacy as the most powerful Note series yet to give you all the things you know, love, and expect from Galaxy.

Galaxy Note20 series is built with the fastest processor of all Galaxy devices. It features cutting-edge technology and best-in-class mobile experiences, without sacrificing the iconic, timeless and durable design. Both Galaxy Note20 and Note20 Ultra introduce a new Mystic Bronze colour – soft neutral tones that transcend changing trends. For the first time in the Note series, Galaxy Note20 Ultra offers the vivid and bright Dynamic AMOLED 2X
display and 120Hz refresh rate delivering buttery smooth visuals on our best screen yet, which automatically adjusts to the content you are viewing to extend your battery life. Sport an all-day intelligent battery and super-fast charging capabilities, getting more than 50% charge in just 30 minutes.

Continue Samsung’s 5G leadership and deliver next-level power for everything you love to do thanks to hyper-fast, ultra-low latency 5G. Galaxy Note20 series automatically searches and recommends high speed networks and provides stable Wi-Fi 6 networks with optimised latency for various streaming services. Galaxy Note20 series hardware and software is secured end-to-end thanks to Samsung Knox.

For the first time on a Galaxy device with UWB, Nearby Share will reach a new level of quick and easy sharing. By simply pointing the Note20 Ultra to another UWB enabled Galaxy device, Nearby Share will automatically list the people you’re facing on to the top of your sharing panel. Future UWB functionality will also help you find things more accurately with AR technology and unlock your home as a digital key.

Samsung devices and services are designed to work together effortlessly, elevating not only your work and play, but everything that’s important to you. Take your Galaxy Note20 to the next level by pairing it with other new additions to the Samsung Galaxy: Galaxy Tab S7 and Tab S7+, Galaxy Watch3, and Galaxy Buds Live. With these cutting-edge complements to the Note experience, you can work smarter, play longer, live healthier, and communicate better.

Galaxy Tab S7 and S7+ are two versatile tablets that combine the power of a PC, the flexibility of a tablet, and the connectivity of a smartphone. Building on Samsung’s legacy of Galaxy 5G leadership, Galaxy Tab S7 and S7+ can help unlock seamless videoconferencing, fast downloads, and minimal-lag streaming.

Experience PC-level productivity on Galaxy Tab S7 and S7+ thanks to a powerful processor, an improved keyboard experience (keyboard sold separately as Book Cover Keyboard), and an improved S Pen with similar capabilities as the Galaxy Note20 series—all empowering you to get more done in less time. But a tablet shouldn’t just enhance our work, it should also help us get the most out of our downtime. For elevated entertainment, Galaxy Tab S7 and S7+ feature an immersive display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, so you can take full advantage of the cloud-based gaming and high-definition streaming – or do both at the same time with upgraded multi-tasking capabilities. For users who want even more space to work, play, and create, Galaxy Tab S7+ offers an extra-large 12.4” Super AMOLED display.

These tablets also make it easier than ever to work across multiple devices.

When there’s no Wi-Fi network in sight, you can use Auto Hotspot to automatically tether other compatible Galaxy devices to your tablet. And with Nearby Share, you can easily transmit files to nearby contacts. Use your Galaxy Tab S7 and S7+ to extend your compatible PC with Second screen, so you can choose between duplicating and extending your display. Maximise your productivity even further with tools such as Samsung Notes, S Pen, Book Cover Keyboard and Bluetooth mouse for the complete computing experience.

Galaxy Watch3 is a next-generation companion for managing your routines, smashing your fitness goals, and taking ownership over your health. Built with premium materials and a slimmed-down version of the popular rotating bezel, Galaxy Watch3 features the craftsmanship of a luxury timepiece, while still being comfortable enough to wear all day and all night. But this smartwatch isn’t just appealing to the eye, it’s also the centre of your wellness experience, sporting Samsung’s most expansive health suite yet.

With the upcoming Blood oxygen feature, you can measure and track oxygen saturation over time, for fitness and wellness purposes can be sent to pre-designated contacts. Running Analysis will help you run better and improve your form while VO max follows your cardio progress to provide insight into oxygen consumption. For those who want to keep fit while being at home, Samsung Health provides more than 120 different home training programs so you can track your workout progress on your watch.

Meet the newest shape of true wireless earbuds – Galaxy Buds Live. With a truly iconic design and comfortable fit– they’re like nothing you’ve seen or worn before. Combining AKG’s sound expertise with a bigger, 12mm speaker (compared to Galaxy Buds+), along with a bass duct, audio sounds deep and rich so you can enjoy music the way the artist intended. Galaxy Buds Live come with three microphones and Voice Pickup Unit so you can feel like you’re in the same room as your loved ones, even when you’re apart. These earbuds feature Active Noise Cancellation for open type bringing the best of both: live and spacious sound quality, with the ability for you to tune in (or out) of the world around you.

Samsung continues to pioneer an entirely new category of mobile devices by introducing the next generation of foldables; Galaxy Z Fold2. After releasing two foldable devices and listening to user feedback on the most requested upgrades and new features, Samsung unveils the Galaxy Z Fold2 with meaningful innovations that offer users enhanced refinements and unique foldable user experiences.

Galaxy Z Fold2 combines the portability and flexibility of a smartphone with the power and screen size of a tablet for ultimate productivity. Whether folded or unfolded, you can enjoy a luxury mobile experience with Galaxy Z Fold2’s premium design. The Galaxy Z Fold2 comes packed with two edge-to-edge, nearly bezel-less Infinity-O Displays. The Cover Screen is 6.2-inches and the massive Main Screen is 7.6-inches 20 , making them both larger than the Galaxy Fold. With its sleek design and refined engineering, Galaxy Z Fold2 comes in two equally stunning colours: Mystic Black and Mystic Bronze. For users who seek a unique premium design, Samsung is again partnering with iconic New York fashion house Thom Browne to deliver a limited Galaxy Z Fold2 Thom Browne Edition.

With Galaxy Z Fold2, Samsung will continue to inspire all new possibilities for the entire foldable category.

The Galaxy Note20 series and Tab S7 series will be available in select markets starting August 21st, 2020.

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The post Samsung Unveils Five New Galaxy Devices appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

OPPO are at the center of innovation.

Their Android based smartphones were once the cheaper option (and for the mid-range ones like the AX5s they still are), but over the last couple of years OPPO have found and forged their own path in to supreme high end devices.

Introducing the OPPO Reno 10x Zoom.

Built on Android 9.0 with their signature and now updated ColorOS 6 overlaid, the beast of a handset goes full frontal, once again – as they did with the Find X, making the Reno 10x Zoom all 6.6 inch screen and no notch, coming in at an impressive 93.1% body to screen ratio overall.

ColorOS 6 will see you using swipe gestures to navigate throughout your open Apps, browser pages and more. OPPO also have an ‘edge’ like function which was introduced in to the latter part of ColorOS 5.

The 16MP Front Camera is housed inside the body of the phone. When it comes to selfie time – or 3D Face Unlock the extremely quiet internal mechanism will flick the front camera up, in an angled fashion that almost looks as though the Reno 10x Zoom is raising its eyebrow at you.

Purportedly the raising front camera should withstand 200, 000 instances of use. It’s sturdy and when closed sits flush with the top of the phone.

The rear camera is of course where the mobile photography smarts come rolling in.

Being a whopping 48MP + 8MP + 13MP the Reno 10x Zoom offers all of the smarts that we would expect, including A.I. (Artificial Intelligence), a mega suite of filters and effects,  aswell as an epic Hybrid 60x Digital Zoom with an advanced stabiliser.

The Reno 10x Zoom is also fitted with a periscope lens at the rear for optimal and fully detailed wide angle photo’s.

While all of this wizardry is more than expected – the Reno’s A.I. controlled low light is super impressive in the way it tries to adjust the image with the builtin Ultra Night Mode. But, there are occasions where it falls short and doesn’t quite do the MP rate and power of the rear cameras any justice.

Under the hood the OPPO Reno 10x Zoom has 8GB RAM coupled with 256GB storage. I am very pleased to say that OPPO retained the microSD option aswell, the dual sim bay sees the secondary sim share with a expansion bay.

The Reno 10x Zoom has a Snapdragon 855 processor to crunch the data, this is also optimised for the ever-lasting 4065 mAh battery.

Using the Reno 10x Zoom as an every day handset for the past week and a half – I let the battery run down to empty. This took around 3 days.

I am not a light user by any means. Running this website, replying to emails, messages and calls on a daily basis… no, hourly basis, aswell as aiming to push the phones’ specs to it’s limits by way of gaming, this is one hell of an energy consumption achievement on OPPO’s part.

Charging the Reno 10x Zoom from dead to full utilizing the builtin ‘VOOC 3.0’ honestly took around 30 – 40 minutes. No time at all when you think about how much juice you can get from the handset when fully charged.

OPPO have built the Reno 10x Zoom for gamers.

Featuring an Adreno 640 GPU and a dedicated App based function called Game Space – you can provision power where you need it most for optimal gaming, block in-game banners / advertising and add your favourite or most played games in to the Game Space App.

As mobile gaming and games become ever more resource hungry this was a handy function to have.

Needless to say no matter what I played, Fortnite, PUBG, ARK all were lag free and making use of the settings in the Game Space along with the triple internal cooling system of the device also ensured that my battery didn’t totally drain away. If you are a mobile gamer – or a mobile eSports enthusiast, OPPO designed the Reno 10x Zoom for you.

OPPO also take their device security seriously.

The 3D facial recognition is instant, the fingerprint senor is under the glass (and has a very nice animation to it aswell) and does not require a firm press as some other flagship (and more expensive) handsets do. The proximity sensor and gyro know when you are near the phone and the fingerprint sensor will come on to the screen.

While OPPO have totally outdone themselves with the Reno 10x Zoom there are a couple of things that they missed out.

There is no wireless charging and also no reverse charging. This is a shame and I do wonder why, if anything, wireless charging was not included.

Still, being that the cost of the Reno 10x Zoom is under half of the lesser spec’d high end handsets out there, its not fair to gripe too much about that.

OPPO Reno 10x Zoom

The OPPO Reno 10x Zoom is one of my personal favourites so far this year. Coming in with a metallic finish of Ocean Green or Jet Black, OPPO also provide you with a rather high quality case in the box. But, the fiber carbon case’s edges make it difficult for the swipe to close / go back function of the ColorOS 6.

Likely you may want to use the device without the supplied case.

Overall The OPPO Reno 10x Zoom is more than what you pay for. Retaining the exquisite build and looks from last year’s Find X flagship, the Reno has almost everything it’s competitor models do at a fraction of the price point.

From the flat and flush rear camera lenses to the small ball aesthetic which protects those said lenses when the phone is laid on it’s back – right through to the power of the processor, the super long life battery and a bevvy of mobile photography smarts, the Reno 10x Zoom is where it’s at and raises the smartphone bar even higher.

OPPO do it right, all over again.

The post OPPO Reno 10x Zoom Review appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

OPPO New Zealand today unveiled the launch of its new premium smartphone series – the OPPO Reno Series – and has introduced two new devices, the OPPO Reno 10x Zoom and the OPPO Reno Z.

This series unleashes the full creative potential of users, bringing a unique, immersive smartphone experience that is accessible to consumers across all price points.

Commenting on the OPPO Reno Series launch, OPPO NZ Managing Director Kevin Cho said: “We’re excited to be bringing the Reno Series to New Zealand, which we believe will bring real value to our customers and make the latest smartphone innovations accessible to all. Not only does the new range promise cutting-edge technology and exceptional photography, but also provides a truly immersive experience and one we believe Kiwis will love.”

The OPPO Reno 10x Zoom, which is available to purchase from 28th June, is the result of extensive research and development and embodies OPPO’s vision to push the boundaries of what is possible in a smartphone. 

OPPO Reno 10x Zoom

With the 10x Hybrid Zoom creativity is no longer limited by distance. The combination of three lenses provides a full focal length of 16-160mm in tandem. This is made possible through 48MP ultra-clear main camera lens, a 13MP periscope telephoto lens and an 8MP wide-angle lens.  

To ensure the quality of long-distance zoom photography, the Reno 10x Zoom also utilises a dual OIS design in its primary and telephoto lenses to mitigate device vibration.

The tri-lens adapts to all kinds of photography scenarios including wide-angle, portrait, 10x hybrid zoom and even 4K video filming. With these developments, everyone can be a professional photographer, capturing New Zealand from completely new perspectives.

The Reno Series introduces OPPO’s new pop-up front-facing camera, which uses a pivot-rising structure, and takes just 0.8 seconds to rise. This enables the Reno to feature a completely uninterrupted display, with a huge 93.1 percent screen to body ratio – letting you stream, play and view content in perfect clarity.

It has also been tested rigorously and can withstand over 200,000 uses – or roughly five years of usage, if used 100 times a day. 

OPPO Reno Z

The OPPO Reno 10x Zoom is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, which effortlessly satisfies users need for speed. With up to 8GM RAM and 256 GB internal storage, users can stream, game and chat with smooth and efficient results. It not only integrates a 4th generation AI engine but also demonstrates a giant leap in processing power – increasing  performance by 45 per cent.

The OPPO Reno Series has also optimized performance factors specifically for gaming, such as latency, touch control and refresh rate. The result is a visibly faster response time for players.

In addition to the Reno 10x Zoom, OPPO has introduced the Reno Z, which provides just as many impressive features for price-savvy consumers. Features include 48 MP + 5MP dual rear camera and Ultra Night Mode 2.0, creating photos with details that exceed that of the human eye. This device also has outstanding memory, powerful processor, hidden fingerprint sensor and ultra-fast charging technology VOOC 3.0.

“Whilst the OPPO Reno 10x Zoom offers our customers the latest photography capabilities from OPPO, the OPPO Reno Z provides our customers unprecedented value. We feel both devices will be a big hit with Kiwis, and are excited for them to enjoy the unique smartphone experience each device provides,” said Cho.

OPPO Reno 10x Zoom

In celebration of the OPPO Reno Series launch, from 1st July – 31 August 2019, Kiwis can book a stay at the luxury OPPO Reno Suite, located in the heart of one of the most breathtaking spots on earth – the Waipara Valley.

During their stay, guests are encouraged to upload images and videos using tags #instacation, #OPPONZ and @OPPONewZealand. They can then sit back and watch as the ‘likes’ roll in, saving $1 off the total set price of the stay for each like they receive.

Kiwi’s can book this unique overnight adventure by going HERE.

Terms and conditions apply.

But wait, there’s more. For every purchase of an OPPO Reno 10x Zoom, consumers will have the chance to win a stay at the #instacation OPPO Reno Suite. OPPO Reno 10x Zoom and Reno Z purchasers will also receive 12-months of  free OPPO CARE, four months of YouTube Music Premium, and a UE BOOM 3 speaker.

Terms and conditions apply.

The OPPO Reno 10x Zoom will have a RRP: $1,299 NZD and goes on sale from the 28th of June 2019 at Noel Leeming, JB Hi-fi, 2degrees, Smiths City and PB Tech. The OPPO Reno Z will have a RRP: $699 NZD and is available from the 12th of July 2019 at Noel Leeming, JB Hi-fi, 2degrees, Smiths City and PB Tech.

The post OPPO New Zealand Paves the Way w. RENO appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

There is a famous quote, said by Charles H. Duell, a U.S. Patent Office Commissioner that “everything that can be invented, has been invented”. This was said in 1899.

How wrong was he… and how wrong have industry insiders who for the past several months have been chattering a similar instance where it was thought that innovation in smart devices was at its peak and there was no more scope to innovate further.

To prove that innovation is still alive and the annual leap forward in more bells and whistles for the next big thing is still an event we can relish every year.

Samsung are the first in 2019 to release their first flagship device, the Galaxy S10.

Can you believe it has been a full decade since the very first Samsung Galaxy S??!!

Samsung Galaxy S

Coming in three varieties (actually, four if you include the upcoming Galaxy S10 5G model), Galaxy S10e, Galaxy S10 and Galaxy S10+ and while aesthetics, build and spec differences we experienced last year with the S9, the Galaxy S Series 10 year anniversary ensures innovation is at the top of Samsung’s checklist.

With a short loan entry level Galaxy S10 device in hand two weeks prior to launch, I was not only the cool kid in the STG office, but also had the distinct privilege of finding out what the S10’s capabilities were.

Samsung has been the second phone maker to overcome the notch / dew drop complexity making the Galaxy S10 an almost fully-fledged full screen smartphone.

The FHD 6.1 inch Cinematic Infinity OLED screen features the curved edges that Samsung pioneered back on the S6 edge (yep that was four years ago!) with diamond laser cut placements for the front facing camera lenses (or single lens with the Galaxy S10e).

Sure this does kinda mean that the notch or dew drop is swapped out with a right side top lens placement, or just moved from the top to the side, but it’s not too noticeable at general screen views, but totally is when gaming or watching Netflix.

The front facing camera clocks in at 10 MP and whilst the usual bevy of filters and AR’s feature, one magical achievement stands out which will allow you to take a dual or perhaps even a small group selfie by using both a wider angle frame.

The blur feature – which we first experienced way back in the release of the Note 8 is more customizable than ever before. And, for Instrgrammers – you can snap and instantly upload to Insta without needing to open the Instagram App. Yep, there’s a Insta feature within the camera modes.

The front facing ‘selfie’ camera is indeed a huge leap up from the S9. There is also 3D Facial scanning which is used for both the AR, Avatar feature and for security if you use Face Unlock.

Face Unlock has been used by various smart devices for a couple of years now, with varying results. On the Note9 I ended up turning the feature off and went back to PIN and Finger Print as an unlock method, due to the fail rate.

I am pleased to say that the S10’s unlocking capabilities at the sight of your smiley dial has majorly improved. There was not one instance in the short time I have had the Galaxy S10 that there was an unlocking fail.

Still I know that not everyone likes to use this feature, so your usual security methods are still there. Finger print scanner has however moved and improved.

Bixby has also had a much needed do-over. 2018’s flagship smartphones will have recently had an update, where Bixby now sounds more human and is infact alot more intelligent and intuitive. Both the front and rear camera’ use Bixby as an AI for your snaps. And yes – there’s still a Bixby button placed to the left under the volume keys.

In what we can see as becoming the norm, Samsung have followed suit from other smartphone manufacturers and placed the finger scanner under the screen. The Galaxy S10 uses sonic sound waves to map your finger print and will instantly recognise it (providing you have placed your finger on the desired spot, lower end of the screen). The downside to how Samsung have done this is that the finger print sensor is in a fixed spot and doesn’t float anywhere on the screen.

Also to unlock your S10 you need to press quite firmly on the glass. When using it and considering that it is a loan device, I was worried about damaging the screen. There’s also the potential for the phone to ‘ping’ out of your grip if you try to unlock with finger print using one hand. This nearly happened to me a couple of times.

Moving to the rear of the S10, the ceramic casing is smooth to the touch, no gloss to pick up your finger marks and encased at the top in landscape is three lenses, one of which is the wide angle telephoto lens.

The rear camera clocks in at 12 MP (w. Ultra Wide) + 12 MP Telephoto, a total of 24 MP. I like this huge leap forward Samsung. With the combination of the telephoto and wide angle lens your wide landscape shots are no longer a slim narrow banner, they are as wide as they are long in super detail.

Again this is a vast improvement on the S9’s dual lens setup.

With the Galaxy S10, the goodies don’t just stop hovering around the cameras.

The model I was supplied with to review was at low end of the S10 spectrum. Built in we have 8GB RAM (which last year was the max RAM in a flagship device) and 128GB ROM (storage).

For a quick run with the S10, 128GB internal storage was enough for me and will be for most users – this said Samsung have thankfully retained the standard microSD slot within the single SIM tray.

This will read a microSD card up to 512GB (potentially higher when available).

The higher end Galaxy S10+ with 1TB storage and a whopping 12GB RAM would essentially have 1.5TB of digital storage if you add the 512GB microSD in to it. A digital hoarder’s dream!

The 8nm 64-bit Octa-core processor coming in at 2.7 GHz + 2.3 GHz + 1.9 GHz ensures that the S10 is currently the most powerful chipset in any smart device and is tailored for both performance and energy efficiency.

Once the Galaxy S10 was set up I began putting the device through its paces.

Having 8GB RAM seemed to be enough to get games like ARK: Survival and PUBG to run fine and as expected.

Fortnite on the other hand, while playable, did stutter. This was surprising. Initially I thought that perhaps the RAM had too many cached files from first set up and the prior playing of PUBG at the first experience of this. Restarting the phone and clearing caching, seemed to fix the stuttering briefly but not overall.

It is true that mobile game makers in the Triple AAA territory are pushing smart devices to their edges of endurance – as smart devices spec themselves up, so do developers for their games.

Multitasking to the max on the basic Galaxy S10 will not be a problem and of course for low to moderate users, this is likely to be the device for you.

For audio, Samsung have Dolby Atmos built in and audio tech by AKG.

This gives you an unprecedented sound experience no matter what you may be listening to, playlists, movies, gaming or skype / phone call through a headset.

Remember HTC’s Boomsound? This at the time was the most dynamic and ‘booming’ smart phone internal speaker audio I had heard and has always been my benchmark. While a few years old now, BoomSound was so ahead of its time that only now it is being superseded. The Galaxy S10 is super crisp, clear and loud enough where you probably will not need to make use of a Bluetooth speaker in some places and environments.

All of this cool new tech and wizardry will of course needs juice to run it. So, Samsung have added in a powerful but moderately sized battery weiging in at 3400mAh which not only offers up around two to two and a half days of continuous use (depending on what you use for your phone for) but also retains an overhauled quick charge feature.

There is also reverse charge – which while not a relatively new feature in high end android phones (ASUS and Huawei) Samsung have gone a wee bit further and enabled Galaxy Wearables charging. Infact you can charge up most wirelessly chargeable devices, you need to make sure the function is turned on, then place the device that needs charging on the back of the Galaxy S10.

For owners that have a Galaxy Watch and do invest in a Galaxy S10 I can see this as being a huge convenience, one phone, one watch, one charger. Same goes for the Galaxy Buds.

Does it put any tax on the battery. Yes. But it depends on what you are charging up. A Galaxy Watch at 30% will charge up to 80% in roughly 10 minutes via the Galaxy S10 reverse charge and hardly dented the S10’s remaining battery when at full charge.

Charging an iPhone at around 18% battery to 90% took about 20 – 30 minutes and must have been straining for the Galaxy S10 as the iPhone XS Max vampired around 25 to 30% of energy from the Galaxy S10.

And Samsung to Samsung? Reverse charging a Note9 from 40% remaining battery to 100% took approximately 25 minutes and from a full battery level on the Galaxy S10 syphoned only 20% life from the battery.

While I think that this test is a good rough benchmark that we did at STG – there will be varying levels of difference once the Galaxy S10 is out in the wild, as environmental factors can also come in to play.

The Galaxy S10 is built on Android 9 (Pie) , which Samsung overlay their own OS. Even this has had a makeover. Sharper colours, vivid icons, less pasty pastels. The S10’s UI looks a zillion times better than last year.

Functionally it is still the same gesture based system that we know and love.

The Galaxy S10 holds a lot of unexpected surprises from Samsung, who have never been afraid to give something a go. They have been key innovators in the smartphone industry for ten years and while other manufacturers are also taking striding leaps in to the unbelievable, the Galaxy S10 should be taken for what it is. While it does play catch up to some competitors’ offerings from 2018, it also paves a path of further innovation, wizardry and a whole new evolution in to the highly competitive Android eco-system.

As we embark on a whole new adventure with foldables on the horizon – the smart device market is potentially seeing more innovation than ever before, with Samsung championing the way.

The Galaxy S10 is a notable leap from the S9 (and the Note 9), it’s camera lens scope can see more detail and further than the human eye and the device offers up some features that it’s direct Android based competitors do not offer, all the while being a powerhouse that fits inside your pocket.

Galaxy S10 is a necessary upgrade from the previous Galaxy S Series smartphones.

S10 Gallery

The post Samsung Galaxy S10 Review appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Doctors and lawyers step aside, there is a new aspirational career path that Gen Z are pursuing, with 9 in 10 of young New Zealanders naming becoming an Instagram Influencer as their dream job, according to new research from OPPO New Zealand.

Love them or loathe them, the impact of Influencers is undeniable with almost half (47 per cent) of 18 – 24 year olds revealing they’ve made a purchasing or travel decision based on an Influencer’s social media endorsement. The reality is that in 2018, being an Influencer is a viable source of income and one that is becoming increasingly attractive to today’s youth.

The OPPO study, which shines a light on young Kiwis’ perceptions of social media influencers has revealed:

• 79 per cent of Gen Z would take on a fulltime job as an influencer if given the opportunity
• 36 per cent say they’ve tried to build up their Instagram following, with 39 per cent admitting they get anxious about the number of likes they’ll get when posting on Instagram
• 21 per cent have actively researched tips on how to become an influencer and 29 per cent using third party apps to edit their photos for social media
• The most commonly followed accounts are beauty and fashion (48 per cent), travel and food (45 per cent) and fitness (42 per cent)

As it turns out, close to one in six (14 per cent) young New Zealanders would complete a degree or course on how to successfully become an Influencer. In light of this research OPPO has today announced the company has created an Influencer Internship position.

The position offers a three-month, paid stint as an OPPO influencer in which you’ll be flown around New Zealand and Australia to the most Instagrammable locations to capture content for both your own and OPPO’s social media profiles.

And the work perks don’t stop at all-expenses-paid trips, the successful applicant will be mentored by OPPO’s digital marketing team and existing roster of ambassadors including Nicole Millar, Milly Bannister, Libby Kay and KOTravellers.

They will also receive OPPO’s new flagship smartphone, the R17 Pro. The camera on the device packs a serious punch, with a 25MP AI Beauty front camera and triple rear camera with Ultra Night Mode this is one smartphone that was built for Instagram.

Speaking about the internship role, Kevin Cho, Managing Director at OPPO New Zealand said, “As a Smartphone maker we know too well that there’s a growing army of people buying our devices for the sole purpose of capturing and sharing content. Many of these content creators aspire to growing their channels and ultimately creating a viable income stream and career path.

“We can see that in the not so distant future we will employ and train full time influencers, in much the same way you would any employee. So, to kick it off, we’ve created a paid influencer internship. Armed with our latest device, the R17 Pro, we’ll fly the success candidate around the country to capture breathtaking images for social media while receiving mentorship from our existing brand ambassadors.”

If you think you have what it takes to snap an enviable Insta feed, applications for OPPO’s Influencer Internship are now open until the 15th of December 2018. For more details or to apply go HERE.

The post OPPO Launches the Ultimate Internship appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

A smartphone with moving parts.

On the face of it, it doesn’t sound like the best of ideas – however, that’s exactly what OPPO have done with their flagship device the Find X – the front runner in their new line of X Series phone. And it totally works.

Proving that innovation in the smartphone realm is not dead OPPO take a track not travelled by any other manufacturer, a path that is very different to even their predecessor handsets.

The trend over the last year of smartphones has been leading up to that holy grail ‘all screen’ device. OPPO have managed to achieve it.

The minimal almost no bezel 6.4 inch 93.8% full ratio arc screen phone strays away from similarities with other top shelf handsets. There is no notch, there is no Home Button, virtual or otherwise. And when you first look at the Find X – there’s no camera.

But there is.

The 36MP (20 MP + 16 MP) dual lens rear camera and the front 25 MP are hidden and only when the device is unlocked and camera is App is opened– or you swipe up from the lock screen to quick-activate the camera for a quick snap is the mechanical magic revealed.

The Find X houses its cameras inside the casing. A mechanised whirr of satisfaction will sound as the camera pops out. It is true to say that when you first get your hands on the Find X you’re going to find yourself activating the camera more than you would on anyother handset – just to experience that pop-up magic.

Various shooting modes are on offer, infact everything that you can think of is included.

The usual bokeh and portrait related effects, slow-mo video, 4K video recording, A.I. Stickers and also a virtual avatar. OPPO have also included A.I. into the camera’s processing where the device will aim to translate the environment or the object you are taking a photo of. For the virtual avatar (and facial unlock security) on the Find X makes use of 3D facial scanning.

The selfie camera takes crisp and extremely detailed snaps, but it does have a ‘beauty’ filter, which removes any flaws but also gives a very white-washed appearance and depending on lighting, looks like you’ve slapped on a bit of lippy and blush before you selfie snapped.

The pop up camera is good for 300, 000 pop ups in the phone’s lifetime according to OPPO. That’s way more usage than any camera gets in any given timeframe – and generally most smartphone users upgrade their devices every 12 to 24 months.

The Find X released in Paris a few months back and is now releasing down under.

OPPO New Zealand sent STG one of their standard edition handsets to have a quick run through.

Asides from the pop up camera – which is ingenious in itself (no more smudgy lenses!), the standard edition is a superphone in it’s own right.

Offering 256Gb of storage (ROM) coupled with 8GB memory (RAM) the device is powered by a Qualcomm SDM845 – Snapdragon 845. But, sadly there is no microSD slot to expand your storage  – only a singular dual sim slot.

Putting the Find X through its paces, there was no surprise when it handled resource intensive games such as PUBG and EA’s Command and Conquer. What was surprising was how little both games after up to 2 hours play time each did not impact the (3730mAh VOOC / 2 x 1700mAh Super VOOC) battery life. From full battery a couple of hours stint with either title did not seem to shed any battery life… that’s some pleasing technological witchcraft right there.

Google Maps is also known to be a battery chomper – and I have the worst sense of direction than any other human, so I’m always using Google Maps to get through a day. While the Find X did heat up a little bit with prolonged use of Maps, the battery only suffered a small fraction. It literally almost had no affect after a Sunday of driving around Auckland and Northland coast using Maps for the entire 7 hours or so.

Overall, from full charge the battery is going to see you right for around two and a half to three days on moderate to mid heavy use. From zero to full the Quick Charge function takes 30 to 40 minutes to fully charge.
A quick 5 to 7 minute charge will give you around 20 – 30% battery and this can easily get you through a day if you need it to.

Overlaying Android 8.1 (Oreo) is OPPO’s own ColorOS 5.1, the same operating system that is on its much cheaper, lower spec’d AX5.

ColorOS is a light-weight reskin that doesn’t bog down the Android base install and also ensures you get very little in the way of bloatware – maximising your available storage on the phone.

The audio quality is the same as the AX5. It’s good for most, using OPPO’s own Real Sound Technology which allows a basic tweaking of your audio levels and a collection of presets.

OPPO do include some nasty earplugs though, which do not do the audio prowess of their phones justice. Aswell as that, you also get a free smoky transparent case for your new beloved Find X, which darkens and loses the supreme quality translucent colouring of the aluminium and glass framing of the handset. Both will be packed in the overly lavish Find X retail box.

Hard buttons on the devices are a simple affair.

Left has Volume and the Right Power / Wake. You’re Wake Up button will become your best friend, as there is no virtual soft Home Button on the Find X’s screen. There’s also only one socket – the USB-C which is also your audio port (there’s a free 3.5mm to USB-C dongle included).

User security on the Find X only offers up two alternatives; face scan using 3D Structured Light Technology – a 15,000 facial dot recognition and intelligent analysis or the traditional PIN. There is no Finger Print Scan.

To unlock the Find X, you’ll need to tap the power button, be looking at the front of the phone to some capacity, swipe up on the screen and wha-la the Find X is really happy to see you as the camera housing whirrs it’s way upward from inside the devices casing to greet you.

This is a couple more steps than the usual finger scanner – but it’s also a leap forward.

The face scan was one of the easiest I have ever had to set up and the unlock is instant. Not even a millisecond of a thought. With this unlock process you can be assured you wont experience any accidental pocket unlocks.

The Find X comes in two editions and a couple of colour options.

There is the standard one which is being reviewed here and this comes in the blackcurrant-like deep metallic purple called Bordeaux Red, of which resembles a highly expensive gemstone all polished up and glossy. The second colour is Glacier Blue.

Then there’s the Lamborghini Edition.

OPPO fanboys and girls (and those that want a piece of a real Lamborghini in their pocket) are likely to go for this one, which boasts a 512GB ROM (storage) and 8GB RAM (memory). What also sets this one apart from the standard is that the device is made from the same carbon material as a real Lamborghini and is emblazoned with the Lamborghini logo and naturally sanctioned by Lamborghini themselves.

As with a real Lambo – you can expect to pay a premium for this one.

For most folk wanting the innovative, top spec and astounding picture snapping quality then the standard version will suffice.

OPPO are really standing out from the crowd with the Find X – and this was one of my most awaited devices of 2018. My expectations were super high on this one, and I’m not disappointed. Not at all.

OPPO have raised the bar not only for other smartphone manufacturers but also for themselves who were once producing a vast array or android phones which resembled iPhones on their appearance.

Clearly those days are totally gone and the Find X is a strong contender of being one of our best Android phones of 2018.

There absolutely is nothing quite like OPPO’s Find X.

The post OPPO Find X Review appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

With phone manufacturers slimming down the bezel and providing all screen phones, OPPO have managed to go ten steps further and break down borders, literally with their newest flagship smartphone, the OPPO Find X.

A seamless structure without openings on the front or rear of the phone, the OPPO Find X includes a stealth camera and sensors with a 6.42-inch OLED arc screen, at a 19.5:9 aspect ratio, COP packaging and an astounding screen-to-body ratio up to 93.8%.

Both the front and back of the phone have unique 3D glass, with a 2.5D treatment to the edge, which is a first in the industry. Double-sided glass that is based on Corning Gorilla Glass 5 and enveloped in gradient colors to create a glossy, gemstone-like appearance.

With the soon to release OPPO Find X the camera and it’s functions have also had a do-over, with inbuilt 3D Structured Light Facial Recognition which includes 3D AI Beauty Technology. A 25MP AI-enhanced camera with 3D AI Beauty Technology that provides numerous beautification options and a Sensor HDR 2.0 technology for perfect backlight selfies.

Involving RAW HDR, which uses uncompressed RAW source files to preserve the highest quality image the OPPO Find X features an all new AI portrait mode for natural bokeh and 3D portrait lighting.

The OPPO Find X’s OS has been upgraded to OPPO’s proprietary ColorOS 5.1, overlayed on Android 8.1, supporting the usuals like Google Assistant, App and Files Protection, driving mode and more. Under the hood is a snappy Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 mobile platform, 8GB RAM (Memory) and a very pleasing 256GB ROM (storage).

The OPPO Find X breaks with traditional design and creates an independent internal space in the limited body of a smartphone for the cameras. The OPPO Find X’s new stealth design includes a flood illuminator, an infrared camera, a ranging sensor, a receiver, a front camera, a dot projector, a rear dual-camera, and an unprecedented hole-less front and rear side. With the sliding structure of the camera, it automatically stretches out when unlocked or when a user is taking photos. It will retract if it is not in use.

The camera’s sliding structure needs complex technologies. OPPO uses coaxial line sliding, a vortex structure, and a silent motor. Sliding smoothness and service life are improved by reducing the slide rail damping and softening the connecting line. The mechanism completes a full stretch and retracts in 0.6 seconds and has an estimated service life of 300,000 retractions to meet daily use.

Instead of traditional range sensor, the OPPO Find X adopts a new solution combining a TP touch + infrared sensor, which integrates an ambient light sensor in the upper frame of a retractable module and transmits the sound of speaker via the hole through the glass and frame (this retains the hole-less front and rear design).

Adopting a 6.42-inch, dual-arc OLED screen, supporting a display for rich color and vivid pictures, with a 19.5:9 aspect ratio further expands the screen range and at the same time ensures a comfortable hand feel, bringing the user a wider view.

Benefitting from the unique COP packaging technology of a flexible screen, the Find X has an ultra-thin border, 1.65mm on the left and right border, 1.91mm on the top border, and 3.4mm on the bottom border, which increases screen-to-body ratio to 93.8%, this is the largest screen-to-body ratio in the mobile phone market today.

To upgrade the gradient body of the phone, OPPO added a gradient effect to the frame of the phone according to its shape, combining gradient color with the 3D curve on the rear side to create a glossy effect that resembles gemstones. The Find X has two innovative gradient colors: Bordeaux Red and Glacier Blue.

In landscape mode, some frequently used apps and operations can be displayed on the screen, near the two sides of the earpiece, which allow for both apps to be used at the same time, where one of the two apps is suspended above the other app. The position of the suspended app can be adjusted at will. This allows playing a game and watching a video at the same time without interruption.

Using your mug to unlock your smartphone is the thing right now with smartphones. The OPPO Find X has 3D Structured Light Facial Recognition- meaning that you can unlock in an Instant with greater security.

With the Find X, users can simply use eye contact to activate the phone, to complete unlocking and to make mobile payments. Advanced 3D structured light technology makes all of this possible. Find X has a speckle light detecting system comprised of a flood illuminator, an infrared camera, and a dot projector.

With a laser generator projecting over 15,000 recognition spots on a human face, the mechanism builds a precise and complete 3D facial model of the user, so as to accurately identify the user’s characteristics so that he or she is instantly recognized with a look at the screen. The false acceptance rate of the system is only one in a million, which is much lower than fingerprint recognition

Moreover, it functions well even in scenarios when hands are wet and gloved. The infrared light in the phone makes the system capable of accurate recognition even at night. 3D Face Recognition also supports Alipay Face Payment.

Also benefitting from a 3D light detecting system, the Find X is able to obtain high-precision facial information to build a precise 3D model. On this basis, using AI technology for intelligent analysis, beautification suggestions are provided for facial outline, nose form, eye depth, chin, and cheekbone, and eventually provide a more professional 3D model. The OPPO Find X has four optional beautification styles, and every style may be adjusted.

Once the phone’s 3D beauty settings are configured, a user can preview the beauty settings in real time.

The OPPO Find X’s front camera uses a Sony IMX576 sensor, with 25MP pixels and f/2.0 aperture, for better noise level control and color rendition. Even in dark light environments, the system can achieve clear selfies.

Furthermore with the 25MP front camera, the Find X further enhances the accuracy of facial recognition with 296 facial feature points. The Find X has millions of beautification options for the user based on gender, age and skin texture information.

By applying a graduated exposure technique at the pixel level, the Find X has three exposure gradations within one pixel. Given that the HDR process is done after the photos are taken, the effect in the final photo can be different from what a user expects. Together with software imaging optimization, this enables the Find X to shoot photos that are consistent with what a user sees. Also the Sensor HDR 2.0 intelligently adjusts the EV automatically.

In order to retain more details in backlight situations, the Find X adopts RAW HDR technology.

After capturing an image and forming its RAW data, traditional HDR photo sensors will first compress the data and then synthesize the final photo. By contrast, RAW HDR abandons the compression process and directly synthesizes the photo with RAW data. The final HDR photo has greater detail. Even in backlight scenarios where there is a high-lighted background, RAW HDR renders a clear image and full sense of depth.

Through the work of OPPO’s Portrait Lab, OPPO created a new 3D lighting technique for portraits and applied dual-camera technology to achieve background bokeh. Assisted by AI smart beautification, 3D portrait lighting, and smart movie style lighting effects, users are able to take artistic and professional portrait photos. Lighting effects currently supported include: natural light, film light, tone light, two-tone light, feature light, shake light, local color light, dizzy light, smoky color light, and sun light.

The rear cameras of the Find X can intelligently recognize 21 photography modes. With as many as 800 scenario combinations and special optimization solutions, it makes the blue sky bluer and delicious food much more attractive. The newly added “Moire” recognition function can help to eliminate interference in display, TV, and mobile screens.

The Find X is outfitted with the latest Google Assistant, activated with the voice command, “OK, Google,” for voice assistance to look up information, schedule, make phone calls, play music, listen to weather forecasts and find locations.

Energy efficient and different from a traditional MIC, the Find X adopts a smart MIC, with a built-in DSP module to intelligently recognize the noise level of the surrounding environment, so as to automatically adjust its performance. The embedded NXP noise reduction technology realizes energy efficient wakeup, enabling Google Assistant to stand by at any time, and increase wakeup success rate in a silent environment up to 95%. Meanwhile, the smart MIC has a sound wave recognition function, so Google Assistant only responds to a user’s voice command.

OPPO have also introduce O-Cloud which provides data cloud sync for sharing cloud storage with family members. With one exclusive OPPO account, all your data is saved to the cloud. With OPPO’s cloud sync tool, users can easily change cell phones while keeping their most important data secured.

The ColorOS 5.1 deserves another mention as it comes with greater protection from unwanted access to user’s personal data. Users can put confidential files in a password protected Safe Box, hide selected apps from public view, and safeguard personal information from third-party apps for greater security.

Another feature of the Find X is the mart Driving Mode.

When the Bluetooth of the device is detected in the car, the Find X will automatically activate driving mode. In driving mode, users can customize the “no-disturb” mode to ensure safe driving, including a black or white caller list and notification blocking, to avoid disturbing the navigation map on display. Users may also activate caller ID voice notifications and answer phone calls with voice commands.

As mention prior all of these groundbreaking, inniovative features are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845. A lower energy consumption and higher performance chipset.

The Snapdragon 845 is Qualcomm’s most powerful CPU, giving the OPPO Find X a premium, high performance experience. The Snapdragon 845 CPU is built on a 10nm LPP process and an Adreno 630 graphic processor, improving graphic performance by 30%, while reducing power consumption by 30%.

The OPPO Find X supports dual SIM dual standby single working and 4G on all bands but all of these bells and whistles aren’t any good without the juice to power them.

OPPO are introducing us smartphone connoisseurs to their SuperVOOC, designed for Revolutionary Fast Charging.

The well-known VOOC flash charging technology gets a revolutionary upgrade with new Super VOOC technology especially crafted for the Series Bi-cell batterie’s design and supports a 10V 5A fast charging mode. This doubles a user’s charging power compared to a single cell, and a cell phone battery can be fully charged in 35 minutes. This technology has many safety advantages in comparison to traditional VOOCs, with five protections, including low temperature and low voltage, which ensures a fast and safe charge.

Finally dropping the micro USB charger, OPPO Find X’s USB Type-C port is reversible, making charging easier. With its one-hole, two-purpose design, the charging port is also a headphone jack. Traditional headphone jacks are no longer supported. They are now replaced with portable wireless headphones.

The price, features, available time varies depending on markets but is scheduled for release on or around early August 2018. For those of you who want to speed through your smartphone usage OPPO are also releasing the Automobili Lamborghini Edition.

Keep an eye out on our hands on review coming real soon.

OPPO Find X Specs:

The post OPPO FIND X. All Screen. appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Marking a unique evolution in Xperia’s engineering and design, Sony Mobile Communications (Sony Mobile) have announced two new smartphones to headline its flagship range, Xperia XZ2 and Xperia XZ2 Compact.

Built around the concept of bringing you the most immersive entertainment experiences yet – both models provide huge advancements in camera, display and audio technology, as well as a beautiful new design to fit perfectly in your hand.

“If entertainment is your priority, then our new Xperia XZ2 and XZ2 Compact are your smartphones,” said John Featherstone, Managing Director of Oceania, Sony Mobile Communications.

“We have pushed Sony Mobile’s boundaries even further with these new products, for everything from video recording and viewing movies, to listening to music. Featuring world-class technology and a new sleek, sophisticated design, these smartphones are everything you need and probably a lot more – offering entertainment to the extreme.”

Xperia XZ2

Pushing your viewing experience to the extreme, our flagship Xperia XZ2 has an extended 5.7” HDR Full HD+ 18:9 display so you can immerse yourself in your favourite movies and content in exceptional colour and contrast. Not only can you watch existing HDR content, but using Sony’s BRAVIA TV technology, X-reality for mobile will up-convert content to near High Dynamic Range (HDR), so even when you’re streaming videos you get better quality playback that feels like a movie experience.

Tuned for the ultimate and unique entertainment experience, XZ2 incorporates a new haptic experience, adding the perceptual sense of touch so you can actually feel your viewing experience. It uses Sony’s brand new Dynamic Vibration System to analyse audio data and let you feel the action in your hands, bringing your movies, games and videos to life. You can also share your favourite videos with your friends thanks to the XZ2’s powerful front-facing stereo speakers. Featuring S-Force Front Surround, they’re our loudest Xperia speakers ever.

Sony’s audio expertise delivers high-quality sound with the truly authentic Hi-Resolution Audio together with DSEE HX technology for upscaling. Quality is also guaranteed when connecting to wireless speakers or headphones thanks to the enhanced Bluetooth technology LDAC, which offers near High-Resolution Audio.

Motion Eye camera is pushed to the extreme and gets a ground-breaking upgrade with the world’s first 4K HDR movie recording in a smartphone. You can now capture reality with incredible contrast, detail, and real-life colour, and share or upload to a compatible HDR TV or YouTube channel to view your content back with lifelike realism.

Super slow-motion video recording is also upgraded, with 960fps now possible in Full HD to make your ‘wow’ moments even more fascinating. Motion Eye camera also continues to bring all the great still photography features you expect from Xperia through its intelligent control features, such as Predictive Capture with motion and smile detection, Autofocus burst, and Predictive Autofocus. Thanks to these superior features, plus our Quick Launch and Capture, you’ll never miss the moment.

For a truly unique and exciting way to capture memories, the world’s first native 3D creation feature on a smartphone – 3D Creator – is now available with even greater flexibility for 3D scanning. Not only can you create 3D scans of objects or friend’s faces in less than a minute using the main camera, you can also now create 3D scans of yourself using the front camera – bringing to life your selfie in 3D and giving you endless opportunities in the 3D avatar world.  Post-processing is also now available to achieve an even greater quality of 3D scans. Once you’ve finished your 3D scan or selfie, you can also now post directly to your Facebook timeline within 3D Creator.

All of these great experiences are encased in a new design expression, with a fluid 3D glass surface creating a seamless form that fits comfortably in your hand. The elegant design is contrasted by its tough exterior, built with Corning Gorilla Glass 5 and a metal frame to add extra durability and a beautiful premium feel.  Its four different colour finishes offer a reflection and shine from every angle, thanks to the beautiful glass and flow of light. The device will be available in Liquid Silver, Liquid Black, Deep Green and Ash Pink. Certified IP65/IP68, XZ2 is also designed to withstand splashes and spills so you don’t have to think twice about answering your phone in the rain.

Powered by the cutting-edge Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 Mobile Platform with X20 LTE, XZ2 will provide immersive user experiences at lightning-fast connection speeds (up to 1.2Gbps) with the second generation Gigabit LTE solution, so users can enjoy a modern lifestyle whilst working or having fun. For example, users can get an episode of a TV series in just 20 seconds with super-fast downloading.

With all the ability for speed and performance, the battery still won’t let you down. With a large 3180mAh battery and the most power efficient control ever thanks to its 845 Mobile Platform, XZ2 offers worry-free, all-day usage. Xperia’s smart battery features are also included, such as Smart Stamina, STAMINA mode, Battery Care, and Qnovo Adaptive Charging technology which help the battery stay healthy to give you a longer battery lifespan. For effortless charging, you can also use the wireless charging dock (WCH20), and other compatible Qi chargers, by simply placing your XZ2 on the dock to power up without the need to plug in.

Xperia XZ2 Compact

A firm favourite in the Xperia flagship line-up, the premium compact smartphone takes on even greater things with XZ2 Compact. It delivers big screen entertainment in the palm of your hand with its 5” HDR Full HD+ extended display, making it the world’s most compact 5” smartphone. With its large screen and powerful stereo speakers, it’s designed to be the ultimate compact entertainment device.

It also has a multitude of premium updates found in its big brother XZ2, such as all of the Motion Eye 2018 upgrades including 3D Creator with Selfie Mode and Full HD Super slow motion, as well as its’ premium still-image capture. It’s also packed with Sony’s audio enhancing technologies such as Hi-Res Audio and front facing stereo speakers for your ultimate entertainment. This small but mighty smartphone is all powered by the latest, fastest ever, Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 Mobile Platform.

Crafted to perfection, XZ2 Compact has the same design philosophy as XZ2 with its beautiful curved body that gives you the best comfort in your hand. Durability is ensured with a tough exterior including Corning Gorilla Glass 5, anti-scratch hard-grade polycarbonate, IP65/IP68 and metal frame. It is finished in four beautiful colours with a smooth frosted finish: White Silver, Black, Moss Green and Coral Pink.

Xperia XZ2 and XZ2 Compact will ship with Android 8.0 Oreo. XZ2 will be available in the Australian and New Zealand market in both single and dual SIM variants.  Availability of the XZ2 Compact is still being determined.

All details regarding ranging partners, colour availability and pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.

The post Flagship Xperia takes Smartphone Entertainment to Extremes appeared first on Shane the Gamer.