In the fiercely competitive world of wireless earbuds, three models have emerged as frontrunners, each vying for the top spot in terms of performance, features, and user satisfaction. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro 3, Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation), and Sony WF-1000XM5 are all highly regarded in their own right, but how do they stack […]
Instant cameras have become a popular category for one simple reason: they’re fun. You can whip one out at a party or event and take a snap, then a couple of minutes later you have a real, physical photo that everyone can touch, feel and enjoy instead of staring at a screen. It’s also a lot cooler than a smartphone shot thanks to the retro, nostalgic vibes.
Given the large number of models on the market, choosing one can be tricky. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide that will help you choose the best instant camera for you based on factors like price, film size, photo quality and more.
What to consider before buying an instant camera
The main factor for most people is the size of the film. Fujifilm’s Instax alone offers three formats: Mini, Square and Wide, with film sizes of 3.4 x 2.1 inches, 3.4 x 2.8 inches and 3.4 x 4.3 inches. The corresponding image sizes are 2.44 x 1.81 inches, 2.44 x 2.44 inches and 2.44 x 3.9 inches.
Leica’s Sofort 2 and Lomography models also uses Fujifilm’s Mini format, while Polaroid’s smaller Go format is 2.64 x 2.13 inches (1.81 x 1.83-inch image) and its i-Type size is 3.46 x 4.21 inches, with a square image size of 3.11 x 3.11 inches.
When most people think of retro instant cameras, they think of a square image size. That’s why Instagram, which used to have a Polaroid-like app icon, only supported square images for years. If that’s what you want, then Fuji’s Square or either of Polaroid’s formats are best. However, if you want as large an image as possible, Fujifilm’s Instax wide is the way to go.
As for prices, Fujifilm’s Instax films are generally around $1 per shot for square or wide color film and $.60 - $.75 for mini color film. Those prices go up a bit if you choose custom models with colorful or patterned borders, and down if you buy in bulk. Polaroid’s i-Type film is a bit more at about $1.50 per shot or $1.00 per shot for Go color film.
Image quality isn’t really the point with instant cameras of course, as they’re always going to be fuzzy compared to digital photos. However, some models (notably Fujifilm and Polaroid models) are a bit better than others.
And in terms of pricing, cameras with larger film are generally more expensive. It also increases if you add hybrid features like USB-C connectivity, smartphone sharing, the ability to print out photos and more, along with niceties like a selfie mirror. The best, most feature-laden cameras can cost upwards of $200 and basic versions can be well under $100.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/best-instant-camera-120034778.html?src=rss
Ever wished you could build a website just by describing it? What if you could see your ideas take shape in real-time, without the hassle of coding from scratch? This might sound like a dream, but with the power of Claude 3.5 Sonnet, it’s entirely possible. In this guide, All About AI walk you through […]
Misinformation is all over the internet, including the — at times — chaos that is X (formerly Twitter). AI bots have a habit of adding to it. Now, with barely two months left until the presidential election, an update to Grok, X's premium chatbot, could curb some of it (after being called out for said election misinformation). Grok will now direct anyone with an election-related query to Vote.org, a non-partisan website operated through a partnership between the US government, the US Election Assistance Commission and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.
The catalyst for change came on July 21, only hours after President Biden announced his decision not to seek reelection, when Grok falsely posted that the ballot deadline had passed in nine states, implying officials couldn't change the democratic candidate. Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon had staff attempt to contact X about the error, to which they received the response, "Busy now, please check back later." Grok continued to share the response for ten days.
Secretary Simon joined the Michigan, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Washington Secretaries of State — all states wrongly named by Grok — in writing an open letter to X and xAI CEO Elon Musk calling for Grok to direct any election queries to CanIVote.org, another non-partisan resource. They claimed Grok's response, though only available to X Premium and Premium+ subscribers, reached "millions of people" due to screenshots and shares.
The letter also shamed Grok and xAI a bit further, explaining how its competitor, OpenAI, had teamed up with the National Association of Secretaries of State to provide accurate, up-to-date election information. It also mentioned that OpenAI's bot, ChatGPT, was already programmed to direct users to CanIVote.org if it received questions about the US election.
The update is a start. The bot has also created misleading images of the top party candidates. "We appreciate X's action to improve their platform and hope they continue to make improvements that will ensure their users have access to accurate information from trusted sources in this critical election year," the Secretaries of State said in response to the update. "Elections are a team effort, and we need and welcome any partners who are committed to ensuring free, fair, secure, and accurate elections."
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/xs-grok-chatbot-now-directs-election-queries-to-votegov-114516549.html?src=rss
This year has been pretty interesting, in the sense that we have come across a whole bunch of innovative and jaw-dropping tech designs. Things have been exciting here at YD, as we encountered an array of intriguing designs that left a lasting impression on our minds. Each design broke through some barrier or convention in the tech world, bringing us unique solutions, improved functionality, and immense value. And we’ve curated the top 10 futuristic tech trends that are forming waves in the industry today – from a conceptual Apple Vision Joystick Pro Max to a unique design that merges earbuds and a smartwatch. These designs will impress you, just as they impressed us.
1. Nokia Infinity Pro
Called the “Nokia Infinity Pro”, this innovative phone concept challenges the typical “candy bar” form factor of smartphones, creating a thin pill-shaped design that looks like an interesting cross between a foldable clamshell and a smartwatch – all combined into one. The conceptual smartphone has a curvaceous shape that fits comfortably in your hand.
Why is it noteworthy?
What makes this phone unique is that the screen covers the entire surface of the phone’s front, not only the rectangular section. The back of the phone features two circular mounds opposite to each other. One mound is a dual-camera system, while the other is a circular display seen on most smartphones.
What we like
The circular display provides access to important notifications and controls even when the phone is placed down
What we dislike
If you keep putting the phone face down, it could scratch the screen
Not sure which UI elements can be used at the top and bottom of the screen, since most platforms are for rectangular screens
2. HEAL+
If you face health issues, then you don’t need to turn to uncomfortable, ineffective, and expensive solutions anymore. You can turn to this innovative wearable device which focuses on the center of physical and mental health, offering users portable, safe, and easy-to-handle tools to ensure a pain-free gut and a stress-free mind.
Named HEAL+, this wearable device is a non-invasive solution that helps your gut function properly, resulting in better overall health. HEAL+ is powered by laser therapy, or essentially low-level laser therapy or LLLT which reduces inflammation and pain, and other gut-related disorders like IBS, colitis, Crohn’s disease, and more.
What we like
Boosts your immune system, helping in recovery from long-COVID
Regulates the microbial balance in our gut
What we dislike
The design is not kid and pregnant-women friendly
3. Apple Vision Joystick Pro Max
This is the “Apple Vision Joystick Pro Max” – a conceptual design of the Apple Vision Pro Controller by Alex Casabò. The sleek-looking controllers seem to perfectly complement the headset’s futuristic look, and they’re designed to offer smooth and seamless functionality irrespective of what you throw at them.
Why is it noteworthy?
They will elevate the gaming experience for every kind of modern game out there, taking note of the VR environment. The controller is amped with a top surface, equipped with a touch-sensitive surface for smart controls like swaying the road or reloading a sniper rifle.
What we like
The controls and buttons can be mapped as per ergonomic comfort when you play
What we dislike
It is a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product
4. iPhone iFold
Called the iPhone iFold, this conceptual design is an innovative foldable phone by Micheal Dufka. The iFold is inspired by the format of the MotoRAZR and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip. It has a clamshell-style folding design which offers a compact iPhone with a large screen.
Why is it noteworthy?
It features two displays, with a smaller display placed to the side of the camera bump. You can access essential stats and important notifications without actually opening your phone! It has the same convenience as an Apple Watch.
What we like
Has a unique folding form, unseen in Apple smartphones till now
What we dislike
We are unsure if Apple will ever convert this into a tangible product, and how well it would work as one
5. Huawei Watch Buds
Called the Huawei Watch Buds, this innovative gadget combines two gadgets into one. The unique gadget means there is one less gadget to carry around, as it merges earbuds and a smartwatch into one clever design. You can remove the earbuds from inside the smartwatch, much like the stuff of Bond movies!
Why is it noteworthy?
Much like the charging case of your earbuds power up your earbuds, the smartwatch charges the incubating buds inside. The earbuds feature a compact and easy-to-carry form, which creates a compact form factor for the squarish smartwatch. The watch has a 48.5 mm dial with symmetrical chopped edges.
What we like
Compact design, combining two products into one
What we dislike
It is an odd fit for smaller hands
6. Nike Air Jordan XI Adapt Jumpman
Say hello to these super innovative and futuristic shoes – the Nike Air Jordan XI Adapt Jumpman. These shoes are amped with power-lacing technology! Equipped with a self-lacing design, the Air Jordans are right from the future. They are pretty similar to the original shoe shape from 25 years ago.
Why is it noteworthy?
The shoes pair up with the Nike Adapt app, allowing you to personalize them as you please, and control your shoes with real-time customization as well. The app’s interface is a direct reflection of the Jordan brand, and you can customize the buttons on the shoe’s midsole.
What we like
You can personalize the limited-edition Nike shoes’ color scheme, as well as the light flashing pattern
What we dislike
Users could take some time to adjust to the self-lacing tech
7. Samsung Odyssey OLED G9
Dubbed the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9, this 49-inch monitor is amped with a resolution of 5120×1440 with an aspect ratio of 32:9. The screen isn’t an ordinary curved screen, and it provides a pretty wide field of view which perfectly adjusts to the way your eyes work, on account of its 1800R curvature. This marvelous screen offers an immersive and fascinating visual experience!
Why is it noteworthy?
Using the Odyssey OLED G9 is like having two QHD or 2K monitors side-by-side but with the elimination of the distracting borders that break the seamlessness and harmony of the entire experience. There is also enough space for multiple application windows, helping you get your work done.
What we like
Equipped with a Multi-View option that lets you place two screens from two different sources, letting them play at the same time
What we dislike
Doesnt have the best sound quality
Pretty expensive price tag
8. FOCI 2
Meet FOCI 2 – the ultimate productivity tool. The productivity wearable tracks your daily emotions, distraction, stress, calm, etc as you study or work. It also analyzes your emotions, running the risk of frustration, procrastination, burnout, and anxiety. It summarizes focus metrics and tension levels during work as well.
Why is it noteworthy?
It is equipped with tactile feedback which alerts you when you are distracted, fatigued, or stressed. It also features biofeedback training technology which helps you adjust and deal with work states, and improve and elevate your mental performance.
What we like
Helps track and analyze your emotions for heightened productivity
Offers essential feedback for when you need it
What we dislike
The tutorial section isn’t easy to use
9. SHARGE Disk
Meet the SHARGE Disk – the ultimate storage solution for EDC devices. This ultra-lightweight and portable M.2 NVMe SSD is amped with an active heat dissipation system, and 2TB (Maximum) capacity, as well as high read/write speeds of up to 1000 MB/s. It is equipped with an aluminum shell and a silicone case for challenging situations.
Why is it noteworthy?
The SHARGE Disk is an excellent option for those who carry EDC devices such as phones, cameras, and laptops with them. The Sharge weighs 24g/0.84 OZ, and it is half the size of a credit card, making it easy to carry anywhere with you.
What we like
Can easily slip it into your pocket, or hang it on a keychain or bag
Keeps relevant files in hand and accessible
What we dislike
Since it is quite small, you can easily lose it, handle it with care
10. M1
This is the M1 – a compact, and powerful digital multitool. It is a fully functional device, which is designed with the flexibility to expand as and when needed. It is easy-to-use, open source, and will redefine and elevate your digital interactions. It uses the power of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, which allows for seamless interactions.
Why is it noteworthy?
With a simple tap, you can use M1 to control access to doors and gates, making entry and exit an easy-breezy process. You can even duplicate RFID cards and key fobs, read tags, and interact with different pet microchips. Owing to the RFID tech, you can open doors, both literally and metaphorically, as you can interact with different systems around you.
What we like
It can clone cards and read Unique Serial codes
Makes data sharing an intuitive part of your daily interactions
What we dislike
The device does not explain additional security measures to protect the data sharing from criminal elements.
Ever felt the frustration of juggling multiple applications on a single screen, constantly minimizing and maximizing windows just to get your work done? The constant back-and-forth is not only time-consuming but also mentally exhausting. Now, imagine having all three applications visible simultaneously, without the need for external monitors or tangled cables. That’s the promise of […]
As a regular reader of TMA, you might have picked up on regular references to the addictive card-game-that-isn’t-a-card-game, Balatro. If you want to get technical, it’s a single-player poker-themed rogue-like deck builder game where you build and modify your decks with powerful joker cards to overcome scores that increase in each round. (I am aware of how boring that makes it sound, but trust me: It’s amazing)
If you’re not playing it yet, get on it. The makers have announced a collaboration with a handful of games, introducing new themed decks based on The Witcher, Vampire Survivors (another addictive game recently added to Apple Arcade), Dave the Diver and Among Us.
These themed decks are seemingly the only twist. There are no super-powered new jokers, but a new challenge is welcome. Now, where’s that mobile version? According to the creator of Black Mirror, it could end humanity.
French authorities have arrested Telegram boss Pavel Durov on charges that include money laundering and distributing child pornography. The charges reportedly come from a judicial investigation opened in July against an unnamed individual. The arrest has sparked debate around how much responsibility platform owners have for content on their platforms. Telegram denies the charges, while Elon Musk (ugh) has called for Durov’s release. French President Emmanuel Macron defended the arrest, stating France is committed to upholding the law.
The XPS 13 is a capable and stylish Copilot+ PC, but it’s still slower than the Intel model, at times. On top of that, it doesn’t run some games and apps. Sadly, battery life is also surprisingly average. With an NPU capable of 45TOPS, the laptop is better equipped for future AI features.
HMD’s Barbie Phone finally has pricing and release info. The Mattel-sanctioned hot pink flip-phone launches in October — only 15 months after Greta Gerwig’s movie hit theaters! — for $129. Better late than never? Or just… never?
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-why-arent-you-playing-balatro-yet-111600293.html?src=rss
The Garmin Fenix 8 is the latest addition to Garmin’s renowned multi-sport smartwatch lineup, merging features from the popular Fenix and Epix series. This highly anticipated model brings several notable hardware and software updates, aiming to provide users with a comprehensive and enhanced experience. Key enhancements include a vibrant AMOLED display, improved dive capabilities, and a […]
Did you know that nearly 30% of smartphone users have never backed up their data? That’s a staggering number of people at risk of losing their precious memories and important information. But what if there was a way to simplify the backup process, making it as effortless as charging your phone? Introducing Qubii Power, the […]
The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation as it moves towards more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions. Electric and hybrid vehicles have emerged as the frontrunners in this shift, offering a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional petrol-powered cars. However, one of the primary obstacles hindering the widespread adoption of these vehicles has […]