Tech for Regulars

just trying to give unbiased thoughts on consumer tech and consumer process

[regulartechie]

https://twitter.com/onbeeper/status/1712528773160083912?t=IDIADjQJM2Nirnux1hVFdg&s=19

Lolol but actually.

[regulartechie]

Went into Best Buy to get a look at all the new phones that have come out so far. Here are my takeaways.

The iPhone 15 Pro Series: is as clean as always. Seems more like the "S" upgrades of past phones but they have made the dynamic island very functional and cool. Cameras don't seem much better than the 14 Pro Series and titanium is a gimmick.

iPhone 15 Series: Only complaint. Please have at least a 90Hz refresh rate going forward on the cheaper phones. Other than that, usual solid upgrade for anyone whose phone is 4 years or older.

Z fold 5: Was really excited for this phone but the only thing that changed was the hinge. Although it's a good change it's not worth an upgrade on a first generation hinge. Excellent if you have a zfold 2 or a different slab phone and can get a good trade in for it.

Z flip 5: That outer screen makes all the difference. If you're a minimalist with small pockets. This is the phone for you. Can even probably replace a smart watch. Everything else is the same as before, so a better upgrade than the fold but still iterative.

RazrPlus: Motorola has a hard time competing in the Android space but the functionality of the front screen of this phone is the best on any foldable. Aspect ratio is perfect and the back of the phone feels amazing.

Pixel 8 Series: Blown away by the cameras, I'm still partial to the customization of OneUI but Android 14 is a very usable upgrade and I think bored iPhone users should look into these phones. Other than that the AI and Assistant is top notch. I'm always leery about long term performance. Hopefully the 7 years of updates will help.

Pixel Fold: First generation product that needs some refined aspects to the software, specifically multitasking. The hardware is extremely high quality and the front screen is better for anyone who doesn't want the tall aspect ratio of the ZFold. Cameras are good but not as good as the flagship slab Pixels.

Sony Xperia Series: it's like the z fold front screen and the pixel had a baby. This is the true phone for audiophiles and the 4K screen is *chef's kiss*. The price and lack of support in the US could be a deal breaker but these phones are notoriously sturdy and have been since the TMobile contract days.

Galaxy A Series: the bang for buck on these is stellar. If you just need something to do basic functions these are cheap phones that get the job done with amazing screen tech. If you wanna up the camera game a bit go with the A54 or higher.

Pixel 7a: by far the best for camera tech and for stock Android. The phone is fast and basic. Still not as customizable as a Samsung but definitely worth a look.

DM me if you'd like a recommendation for a new phone :)

[regulartechie]

I implore people to mess with their algorithms on social media. Start looking for people who disagree with you to make an informed opinion on what you believe. Also, feelings are not facts. They can be validated but also wrong.

[regulartechie]

First post.

Thinking the real differences between Android and iOS is the market it's catering too.

Android is very productivity focused. You can change everything to do what you need it to do. And even if the phone doesn't do it natively you can work around with apps, etc...

Apple is more focused on the social aspect of technology. Specifically peer to peer interaction. You see this a lot with the segmentation of younger people flocking to iOS for social reasons.

I really do think that people should choose a phone based on needs and not on their peers opinions. Also, stop bullying people for not picking the phone you like. If you aren't including people in a group chat because of something like a bubble then you really need to sort out your priorities.

Technology discrimination doesn't have to be a thing.