STACK #208 Feb 2022

LIFE TECH FEATURE

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GET PHONE SMART continued

THE ANDROID ECOSYSTEM

There are a reported 2.5 billion Androids out there! While this might sound like a sci-fi scenario about a robot invasion, it’s the number of active devices running one of the most popular and

LG and Motorola, and the open platform allows them to change the user interface – an Android phone from Samsung will look different from another brand, despite running the same software system. Designed with mobile apps

PERFORMANCE This is ultimately determined by the price. Flagship models boast the best processing power, and Android phones that support the Qualcomm®Snapdragon™ mobile platform deliver a faster and smoother experience and enhanced graphics. SECURITY If you’re prone to forgetting your passcode or simply want the benefit of added security, many of today’s smartphones offer a biometric option – a fingerprint scanner or facial recognition technology – for fast and convenient access. COST There’s a smartphone to fit every budget. Flagship and premium models offer greater functionality and processing power, although many mid-range models now feature multiple cameras, plenty of memory and battery life. It ultimately comes down to what you need it to do.

accessible operating systems for mobile devices. First developed by software company Android Inc. and acquired by Google in 2005, Android powers smartphones and Chromebooks, as well as some smart TVs and

in mind, Android devices come preloaded with a set of native Google apps including Chrome Browser, Gmail and Google Maps. All you need is a Google account to get started, which will also back up data, automatically sync your Gmail, contacts and saved media

watches. Unlike Apple’s closed iOS, it’s a flexible, open system that gives users the freedom to customise their devices and more purchasing options without in-app restrictions. It’s the OS of choice for a wide variety of manufacturers, including Samsung, Sony,

to other Android devices, and download software updates wirelessly. And if you’re a Mac/Apple user who is switching to an Android device, you can still access your iTunes library on an Android device by simply downloading the Apple Music app from the Google Play Store.

The price tag of a premium smartphone can be intimidating, but the good news is that there are more phones than ever before in the mid-range bracket that feature high-end specs including 5G support, large screens, quad camera systems, powerful processors, ample internal memory and wireless charging. Before browsing the range it’s a good idea to determine what features will best suit your needs, as that way you can avoid shelling out for specs you’re not likely to use. Consider these feature-packed models for under $1,000: SMARTPHONES FOR UNDER 1K

SAMSUNG GALAXY S21 FE 5G 128 GB • Triple rear camera, • 6.4” display • 4K video • Long-lasting battery + fast charging

GOOGLE PIXEL 6 5G 128GB • 50MP camera, • 6.4”display • Tough Gorilla Glass protection • Long-life battery

MOTOROLA EDGE 20 PRO 5G • 108MP camera • 8K video • Qualcomm Snapdragon processor • 256GB internal storage

ASUS ZENFONE 8 5G • 5.9” display • Wi-Fi 6 support • Rear dual cameras • High capacity battery

36 FEBRUARY 2022

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