STACK #239 September 2024

25 on supported Galaxy devices, xy AI features provided by a third party. atures. Image simulated.

YOUR

TO MOVIES, TV, MUSIC, GAMING & TECH

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

jbhifi.com.au/stack

ISSUE 239 SEP ’24

STACK Issue 239 SEPTEMBER 2024 “Give me a break, I’ve never been a robot before.”

INSIDE: THE HOTTEST NEW SMARTPHONE TECH TOP TECH FOR SPRING CLEANING

WIN!

WIN A BOSE ULTRA SOUNDBAR SOUNDBAR & BASS MODULE 700!

PERKS see page 3 for details

CONTENTS

ISSUE 239 SEP 2024

TECH 6 Tech tips and editor's pick 8-14 Smartphone generative AI explained 16 Tough phones and DIY repairs 17 Flip phones and fun features 18-19 Google Pixel 9 series and all the hot new phones 20-22 Smartphones for every budget 24 Smartphone accessories 26-34 The best tech for spring cleaning 36-38 Supersize the footy finals with a massive 4K TV 40 Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 review 42 Audio-Technica AT-SP3X Bookshelf Speakers review 44 What's new in tech this month MOVIES & TV 46 Intro/Take 5/Filmmaker’s Signature/On the radar/ In development/Bob J’s Film Buff Bafflers 48 Merch of the Month/Charts/This month 10 years ago/Socials 49 Cinema: The Substance and Megalopolis 52 The Bikeriders interview with Jodie Comer and Austin Butler 54 Bad Boys: Ride or Die - the boys are back in town 56 The Crown: Season 6 - a royal send-off 58 John Krasinski’s IF - blending worlds 60 Bob J: Ridley Scott’s Black Rain 35 years later 62 New from Imprint Films 64 Out this month 65 New to 4K 66 The latest anime and board games MUSIC 68 My first album/ STACK Exchange 70 Missy Higgins is back 72 Keith Urban/Dave Gilmour 75 Bring Me the Horizon 76 Jamie xx/Eminem 77 Vital Vinyl – Ten top cuts from the ‘90s 80-81 What new albums are heading to JB this month 82 Rock ‘n' roll stories with Stuart Coupe GAMING FLIP MAG AND READ FROM BACK 3 Take 5/Chart/Q5 4 Astro Bot Q+A 6 The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom preview 8 EA Sports FC 25 preview 10 NBA 2K25 Q+A 12 Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Q+A 14 Funko Fusion Q+A 16 Out this month/Fast Forward/ Wham, bam, game exam!

WELCOME

September brings both spring and a host of new smartphones packing the latest AI-powered tech. From Samsung Galaxy AI to Google’s Gemini, generative AI is the current buzz phrase in phone tech and its making smartphones even smarter. This month we demystify this amazing tech that can generate text and images with a simple prompt, translate supported languages in real time, summarise documents, transcribe voice recordings, and more. How does it work, and how will it change the way that you use your phone? Our deep dive into AI has all the info you need to take advantage of this intelligent personal assistant, along with all the cool AI-powered features to look out for. Flip and foldable phones are also trending, with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold6 and Flip6 models leading the charge, and Google bringing its first foldable phone to the Australian market, the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold. These are just some of the latest phones that we’ve rounded up this month, along with recent models – including some quirky and affordable alternatives to the big brands – to suit every budget. September is also the traditional month to give our homes a good spring clean, so what better time to explore the new innovations in cleaning tech designed to make the chore no one likes doing even easier? Whether you’re on the lookout for a new stick, robot, or wet and dry vacuum, we’ve got you covered with a guide to the best appliances for simple and efficient multi surface cleaning. Paul Jones, Editor-in-Chief

jbhifi.com.au/stack

Founder Nic Short Editor-in-Chief Paul Jones Tech Editor Scott Hocking

Marketing Manager Fleur Parker Chief Contributors Gill Pringle, Bob Jones Contributors Jeff Jenkins, Zoë Radas, Simon Lukic, Billy Pinnell, Denise Hylands, Simon Winkler, Jake Cleland, Holly Pereira, Adam Colby, Bec Summer, Dan Nicholson, Michael Irving, Jacqui Picone, Stuart Coupe, Trista McConville, Chris Mobbs, Michael Caverzan

Social Media Manager Glenn Cochrane Production Manager Craig Patterson Correspondence STACK editor@stack.com.au

Games & Online Editor Amy Flower Movie & TV Editor Glenn Cochrane Creative Director Gary Siewert Movies Consultant Kerrie Taylor Games Consultant Sachi Fernando Music Consultant Mike Glynn

RATINGS GUIDE

Parental guidance recommended

Recommended for mature audiences

Not suitable for people under 15. Under 15s must be accommpanied by a parent or adult guardian

Restricted to 18 and over

General

Disclaimer STACK is published by Scribal Custom Pty Ltd (ACN 092 362 135). © Copyright Scribal Custom Pty Ltd, 2024 All rights reserved. All material appearing in this publication is copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material or advertisement. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Scribal Custom Pty Ltd. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of advertisements or information. Whilst care has been taken in the research and preparation of this publication, the publishers, writers or anyone else associated cannot accept any responsibility for any loss, injury or hardship arising from the content contained herein or reliance therefrom, howsoever caused, and it remains your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness of any such content. Views expressed are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher or the editor. By the very nature of this publication, things change daily and we cannot take responsibility for any changes or inaccuracies that occur subsequent to going to press.

For all the latest in TECH , MOVIES , TV , GAMING and MUSIC

follow STACK on SOCIAL MEDIA

STACK Magazine

@STACKMag

stackmagazine

@stackmag

STACKPresents

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

STACK ’ s TECH tips

1 The little things. If you’re looking for an earring or a lost screw in a Five creative tips for using a vacuum cleaner

hard-to-get area, fit a thin piece of cloth over the vacuum nozzle and secure it in place with an elastic band. It will save you sifting through a heap of dirt, hair, dead skin, and whatever other ghastly detritus a vacuum picks up! 2 Hair of the dog. If you’re running late and can’t find a lint roller, throw on the upholstery attachment to remove any pet hair that's stuck on your clothes. 3 Time to vent. Ditch the feather duster, shove on the soft brush attachment, and hit the vents and plantation shutters for a thorough de-dusting. 4 Duct and cover. If you have a ducted heating/cooling system in the home, it doesn’t take long for the filters to clog up, and this will have an adverse effect on efficiency. Remove the filters and gently vacuum to clean them before putting them back 5 Track it. Take a look along any window track, and chances are it's clogged with dirt, grime, and dead insects. Fit the crevice tool, go to work, and enjoy the satisfying rattle of dried bugs shooting up the hose.

SEPTEMBER

DYK?

Engineer Hubert Cecil Booth invented the first powered vacuum cleaner. After designing a machine that would suck, Booth formed the British Vacuum Cleaner Company. The house cleaning service was extremely expensive, and the machine was so heavy it had to be moved from house to house by horses.

Technology has become an integral part of Australian lifestyles and continues to advance in leaps and bounds. From smartphones to smart homes, STACK keeps you up to date on the latest consumer tech in user-friendly terms, along with key points to consider before you buy. If you love tech, you’re in the right place.

What tech has been floating the boat of the writers at STACK recently? You can find it right here every month.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

1979

What was the hottest tech in…

A longish time ago in a galaxy quite near actually, NASA set Black & Decker a challenge. Its mission, which it chose to accept, was to design a small drill that could be used to extract samples from the lunar surface.

espresso 15T 15.6" Full HD Portable Touchscreen Monitor It won’t make you a coffee, but this Aussie-designed and engineered display is one of the best premium portable monitors available. The espresso 15T monitor provides extra screen real estate where and whenever you need it, from business presentations and spreadsheet work to artistic design, Netflix, or gaming. And it's fully compatible with both Windows and Mac devices. Boasting a wafer-thin design and simple plug-in-and-play connection via a single USB-C cable, which also charges the display from the host device, this 15.6-inch monitor is ultra-lightweight at 865g, making it the perfect fit for a laptop bag or backpack. The touchscreen display adds a tablet-like functionality when connected to a laptop, and screen configurations can be easily customised using the free espressoFlow app. So, if you need more screen space on the go without the hassle of lugging a bulky monitor around, this piece of Aussie ingenuity is a

Not ones to let the learnings behind said device go to waste, Black & Decker turned the project into research for consumer product ideas. What arose was a cordless

vacuum called the Spot Vac that held rechargeable batteries in the handle. It became part of a range of devices like hedge trimmers, shears, and a cordless drill. Largely deemed a commercial failure, B&D became aware that the Spot Vac was being dragged out of the tool shed and into the kitchen, where it was used to clean up food spills. Bing! There went the eureka moment! Designer Carroll Gantz went to work on an iconic solution that no one

knew they needed: the Dustbuster. A marketer’s dream, the beige handheld rechargeable vacuum cleaner hit the shelves of stores globally in 1979. The practical and versatile Dustbuster was a worldwide selling sensation. It quickly became the convenient go-to for spills around the house, eliminating the hassle of dragging out the traditional vacuum. Its concept remains as essential in today's home as it did back in ’79.

In our October issue, we’re focusing on tech you can use in the great outdoors. With the weather improving (except in Melbourne), it’s time to shake off the winter blues and get outside! On The Radar

compact and user friendly solution.

SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

6

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

SMARTER PHONES ARE HERE!

The rise of generative AI and its integration into new smartphones has revolutionised how we use our devices, including easy responses to emails, document summarisation, image and text generation, and more. Let’s take a closer look at this amazing new tech. Words Scott Hocking

What is generative AI? Generative AI differs from other AI models in that it can create new content in real time, such as wallpapers, images, and text. It can also alter backgrounds in photos, concisely summarise key points from lengthy documents, transcribe voice recordings, and eliminate switching between apps when sharing photos or searching online. It also works to boost privacy and security, improves the overall efficiency of your smartphone, and can quickly adapt to your needs. Popular examples of generative AI chatbots include ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini (see page 12), and if you’ve used any of these you’ll appreciate the exciting potential of generative AI integration on a smartphone. How does it work? Generative AI uses machine-learning algorithms to learn your habits, preferences, and how you interact with your phone. It doesn’t understand the data it’s learning, though, it simply recognises patterns and structures in the data and uses them to reproduce or create new content at blazingly fast speeds. The more data the algorithms learn, the faster and more efficient they become in carrying out AI-powered tasks, such as generating new and original content based on a prompt, text, photos, audio, and even a rudimentary sketch. What are the advantages of using generative AI? There are plenty! Think of generative AI as your

as well as across a range of editing tools like Google’s Magic Eraser that scrubs out unwanted objects in photos, and Samsung’s Generative Edit for moving, resizing, and erasing objects within an image. Where it all happens A smartphone’s respective chipset (such as Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and Google’s Tensor G4 chip) – or more specifically, its NPU (Neural Processing Unit) – can perform the processing of many AI-powered tasks directly on the device. This means there’s no transmission of data to and from the cloud for processing, and certain tasks don’t require an internet connection. This offline, native AI processing has many advantages: along with faster response times, you can also save on data usage with less back

own personal assistant and content creator. It can offer intelligent suggestions and context aware assistance to accomplish tasks more efficiently and effectively, and free you from mundane time-consuming chores, so you can be more productive and creative elsewhere. For example, generative AI can be an invaluable research tool, saving hours of online searching and note scribbling. It can search for and summarise in a flash the info you need on a certain subject, and deliver complex info in simple terms. Need to add an image to a document but can’t find the right one? Simply draw a basic sketch of what you need and AI will bring it to photorealistic life! Travelling abroad but don’t speak the local language? AI is your personal interpreter. AI is also at work in many phone camera systems to improve low-light photography,

and forth between the device and cloud, and storing data on the device itself creates an extra layer of privacy. Some smartphones use a hybrid model that requires certain AI-powered tasks

to be handled by the cloud, like Google and Samsung’s Circle to Search function, while things like generative photo editing and live language translation can use both cloud and native processing. Running AI functions natively not only boosts speed and productivity, it also enables a more personalised user experience.

*GalaxyAI features will be free until the end of 2025 on supported Galaxy devices, after which you may be charged service fees to use GalaxyAI features provided by a third party.

SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

8

SMARTER PHONES ARE HERE! continued

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

COOL AI FEATURES TO LOOK OUT FOR Generative AI is now being integrated across big brand smartphones, with each offering its own version – such as Samsung’s Galaxy AI, Google’s Gemini, and OPPO AI – while also sharing similar albeit rebranded AI-powered features like certain photo editing tools and live language translation. Here are some of the cool things it can do.

SAMSUNG

GOOGLE

Sketch to Image Need a picture to illustrate a point? Simply draw a basic sketch and generative AI will transform it into a fully-fledged image. You can also add a doodle or sketch (like

• Samsung Galaxy AI*

• Google Pixel camera AI*

Add Me This nifty new feature allows the

AI Composer Integrated into the Samsung keyboard and there whenever you need it, Composer can quickly draft a message based on an idea, keywords or a sentence of text, and also generate captions for social media posts. And the final response can be tonally fine-tuned where required. Circle to Search

photographer to be part of a group shot. Take the shot then trade places with someone who’ll take a second shot, with composition guidance so they match. The two photos can then be merged into a single shot with everyone in it!

a funny hat) to existing photos and watch it appear within the shot. It’s another fun feature and a good creative partner for the artistically challenged. Interpreter This multilingual marvel translates phone and face-to-face conversations in real time for supported languages. Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Fold6 and Flip6 makes this even

Reimagine in Magic Editor This enables you to alter and reimagine existing photos

Spotted something in an online photo or YouTube video, like a new pair of shoes or a dish you want the recipe for? Finding out more info used to mean leaving the app to perform a web search, but

with different backgrounds by simply typing what you want in a text box – for example, reimagine a daylight shot with a night sky. Auto Frame in Magic Editor Are there photos in your gallery that look a bit off? AI can reframe them to better accentuate the subject, and also fill in any blanks for improved composition. Best Take One of our favourites, this feature uses a

this function (also available on Google Pixel 8 phones and above) gives you fast access to details without switching apps or dragging a screenshot into Google Lens. Just circle or tap on the image for more info. Portrait Studio Available on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Flip6, this is a fun AI feature that can transform existing photos and selfies into different art styles, such as a 3D cartoon,

easier with Conversation Mode, where translated transcripts are displayed on both the cover and main screen, so they are visible to both speakers. Note Assist This writing tool can auto format and spell check your notes, transcribe voice memos and recorded meetings, and also instantly translate text and recordings in a different language. It even recognises different voices and flags each speaker in the transcript.

combination of different AI models to combine data from a series of photos taken in a burst.

a comic book look, sketch or watercolour. It's perfect for creating a unique

You can then swap out any awkward facial expressions in a group shot, so everyone looks their best. *Features and availability will vary depending on the model

profile pic or online avatar.

*GalaxyAI features will be free until the end of 2025 on supported Galaxy devices, after which you may be charged service fees to use GalaxyAI features provided by a third party.

10 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

SMARTER PHONES ARE HERE! continued

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

MEET GEMINI Google’s new AI assistant, Gemini, is here to help. Let’s check out what it does and how it can supercharge your creativity and productivity.

What is Gemini? Formerly known as Bard, Gemini is Google’s powerful AI assistant, capable of composing text documents and emails in different tones, generating ideas and images, and responding to user input via a simple prompt. It can also learn, solve problems, and provide context for more helpful responses. Gemini is a multimodal AI model, which means it can complete complex tasks and understand and combine info including text, code, audio, images, and video. How does it work? Without getting too technical, Gemini uses natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning to recognise, generate, summarise and translate text, and can also

generate and analyse code, process audio, video, and more. Gemini is a Large Language Model (LLM) AI, which uses machine learning that’s been trained using trillions of words, enabling it to learn common language patterns and comprehension to generate human language text. It can assist with composing an attention-grabbing social media post, manage schedules and events, or help you prepare for a job interview. Simply type or ask what you want, or perform a visual search by tapping the camera to upload a picture. User prompts and questions help to improve its responses, and if it doesn’t know something, it will search for the correct response. Ask it why the sky

Gemini Live Announced at the recent Made by Google event, Gemini Live will be

integrated across the new Pixel 9 series of smartphones. A convenient, hands-free alternative to entering text or performing a Google search, Gemini Live enables free-flowing conversation with the chatbot directly

is blue and you’ll get a summary on sunlight

scattering. And were we to ask it to act as a journalist and write a feature on itself, it would, but that would be cheating! How do you use it? All you need to get started is a Google account and the

from your phone, with the option to choose from ten different voices. You can even interrupt it mid sentence or change the subject, and the AI will keep up.

*Gemini mobile app is available for selected devices, languages and countries. Internet connection required. Check responses for accuracy.

12 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

SMARTER PHONES ARE HERE! continued

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

The Gemini family Gemini is a multimodal AI that has different models for different uses and Google applications. Gemini Nano Designed for mobile devices and launched on the Google Pixel 8 Pro (and also available on the Samsung Galaxy S24 series), Nano works on the device, so you can carry out AI-powered tasks without a network connection. Use it with Magic Compose to transform the style of your writing, or summarise key points and transcribe voice recordings in the Recorder app. Gemini Pro This cloud-based model can handle a wider range of tasks via the Gemini app, and can process large documents, hours of audio, video, and more. Pro is also capable of delivering faster responses and can understand complex questions. Gemini Ultra The premium model designed for highly complex tasks like code and reasoning, supported language translation, and image generation. This subscription-based model is available to users with a Google One AI premium plan.

Gemini app. Exclusive to Android devices, the app can be downloaded from Google Play and is compatible with devices running Android 12 and above, Google Pixel 6 phones and above, as well as Samsung Galaxy S24 phones and above. The Gemini ecosystem is integrated into a number of Google services such as Google Cloud, Google Maps, Gmail, YouTube and Google Workspace. Using Gemini in Gmail requires a Google AI Premium Plan to unlock assistance with creating and refining emails using Compose, while connecting to Google Workspace enables Gemini to find, summarise and provide responses based on your documents, files and emails. This content is kept private and never shared, and extensions can be disabled at any time. There is also an option to use Gemini like Google Assistant, allowing you to make calls, set timers, and more with a simple “Hey Google” command. Gemini is expected to eventually replace the popular voice assistant.

OPPO has brought AI-powered writing and photo editing tools to its new Reno 12 series, along with AI Recording Summary for fast transcription of meetings, interviews and voice memos. All designed to streamline daily routines and help you get organised. Leading the suite of camera tools is AI Studio, which enables you to alter photos by changing hairstyles and backgrounds, and to create digital avatars. Also notable is AI Best Face that fixes blinking subjects in a group shot. OPPO AI can also optimise your mobile signal if the network connection is weak (in an elevator, for example) using the AI LinkBoost feature. OPPO AI

*Gemini mobile app is available for selected devices, languages and countries. Internet connection required. Check responses for accuracy.

14 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

Available at

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

DIY REPAIRS

If a damaged phone can be salvaged, repairs can often be costly and time

It’s inevitable that our phones will suffer numerous drops, knocks and splashes throughout their lifetime. Fortunately most modern smartphones are built tough, and here’s what to look out for in high strength durability. Words Bec Summer Gorilla Glass TOUGH STUFF!

consuming. The good news is that Nokia and HMD, in partnership with iFixit, offer a sustainable alternative with repairable phones. From cracked screens and scratched back covers to bent charging ports and dead batteries, supported models can be quickly repaired using free step-by-step guides and disassembly instructions, plus affordable tools and replacement parts or all-in one fix kits from iFixit. Simply head to the iFixit website for everything you need to get started. While this might sound challenging, and some basic skill level is required, the repair guides come with a difficulty rating, so a quick scan of what’s involved will probably tell you if you’re up to the task. Choosing a phone that supports RIY (Repair It Yourself) will not only prolong its life, but also reduce e-waste and its impact on the environment – and you’ll get the satisfaction of having fixed it yourself! • Supported phones include the HMD Pulse , Pulse Pro , HMD Skyline , and the Nokia G42

And if you want even tougher stuff, Titanium is sometimes used in premium models, such as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, for even greater body protection. Military grade If you see a phone boasting MIL-STD-810 or 810H it means it has passed military standard testing for extreme environmental conditions, dust and shock resistance. The rigorous classification process of up to 30 tests also includes determining resistance to things like pressure, ballistic shock, explosive atmosphere, solar radiation, and even fungus! In other words, a military-standard phone is one incredibly rugged device that’s built for outdoor work and extreme adventure. IP rating Just like other portable tech, smartphones generally have an IP or IPX rating in the specs, which indicates the device’s resistance to water and dust. While many modern phones are generally splashproof, it pays to check the IP rating for the level of protection – the higher the number, the greater the resistance.

Many brands tout screen protection by Corning’s Gorilla Glass, but is it as strong as its simian moniker suggests? Yes it is. Designed to cover and protect portable tech like smartphones, Gorilla Glass is a thin, specialised glass that balances scratch and drop resistance with visual clarity through rigorous testing. It’s the more common tough screen protection found on today’s premium phones, and you’ll come across different generations, such as the even tougher Gorilla Glass Victus and Victus 2, along with a version designed for mid-range phones, Gorilla Glass 7i. Then there's Gorilla Armour for high-end phones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, which offers four times more scratch resistance than its competitors. Whichever generation a phone sports, Gorilla Glass protection is a good indicator that you’re less likely to suffer the bane of all phone owners, a cracked screen. Armour Aluminium Lightweight, strong, and offering high protection against external impacts, and also resistant to corrosion, Armour Aluminium reinforces the frame of flagship Samsung phones.

TOUGH PHONES

OPPO Reno 12 series

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra • Titanium tough!

Nokia XR21 • Military grade ruggedness

• A tough mid-range phone

16 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

FEATURE TECH

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

FLIPPING OUT Flip and foldable phones are back big time, not that they ever really went away.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6

The classic clamshell Motorola Razr V3 was the fashionable phone of 2004, and now flip and foldable models are back with a contemporary makeover, as more and more of the major brands look to bring a foldable phone to the market. These compact, trendsetting devices have redefined

different angles (tent, prop, or use the phone like a tripod), as well as a dual display – a cover screen for quick access to notifications, apps, and a larger main screen for multitasking across multiple windows and apps, gaming, and entertainment on a bigger display.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6

Moreover, dual screens make live language translation even easier, where supported – the real time transcription is visible on both the cover screen and main screen, so both speakers can view and keep up with the conversation. Practical, fashionable, and

portability – and increased screen real estate. But it’s not just the convenience of a smaller and more comfortable fit in your hand and pocket that’s made flip and foldable phones popular, particularly with younger users and content creators.

fun, this lightweight clamshell and foldable form factor is certain to turn heads when opened to take a photo or a call.

Their design offers the flexibility of hands-free photography and video calls from a variety of

FUN FEATURES AI-powered phones might be hogging all the attention, but look beyond them and the major brands and you’ll find some cool and quirky features on alternative, highly affordable models – things that you may not know a phone could do.

Hands-free selfies Pack up the selfie stick! HMD Pulse, Pulse Pro, and Skyline

phones include an innovative, hands free function that enables you to snap selfies without needing to touch the phone. This gesture

The Glyph Interface Nothing phones have brought a sense of fun back to the device we use daily and often take for granted. Where most phones have a featureless back, the Nothing Phone 2 and 2a have a unique point of difference, the Glyph Interface. This is a customisable light configuration that can be set to

based function uses advanced motion detection tech to recognise specific hand movements. You simply frame the shot and then perform a designated gesture, such as a

peace sign, thumbs up or finger-heart to trigger a three-second countdown… and snap! It’s particularly handy for perfecting

display different patterns to indicate when notifications from apps or contacts come in, so you get the latest updates without the distraction of looking at the screen. The Glyph Interface can also be tailored for music visualisation – sync the light patterns to the beat of your favourite tunes, or use it as a visual representation of the volume level – and as a visual countdown for a timer. It can even double as a ring light!

your pose, taking group selfies, and

capturing those spontaneous moments while on the go, without any self-timer delays and awkward fumbling for the shutter button.

17

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

Google has taken its biggest and boldest swing yet with the new generation of Pixel phones.This time around, we’ve got the powerful Pixel 9, the luxurious Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the epic Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Words Michael Irving PIXEL PERFECT PROGRESS

All in the family Google Pixel phones get even more useful when paired with other Google devices. Use your Pixel Watch 3 to snap a selfie on your Pixel 9 from afar. Hear AI translations directly in your ears through your Pixel Buds Pro 2. Or add items to your shopping list verbally with a Nest Hub 2 and find them later on your phone.

Google’s Gemini AI assistant is woven throughout the Pixel 9 range, helping you to be more creative and productive (see page 12). It’s powered by the Tensor G4 chip, Google’s most powerful and efficient processor ever, and backed up by a major memory upgrade of up to 16GB of RAM. Say hi to Gemini

Gemini’s features include better search functions through your photos and files, a call transcription service, and Pixel Studio, an image generator that brings your ideas to life instantly. Gemini Live lets you have a free-flowing conversation with the AI to brainstorm ideas, plan an activity, or learn something new.

And, of course, there’s a whole host of new AI-powered photo modes, to help you touch up images, erase or move objects or people, and combine multiple shots into one. You can even remix photos, telling the AI to add flowers, make the sky pink, and more!

Google Pixel 9 5G The Pixel 9 is a great place to start. A 50MP main camera pairs with a 48MP ultra-wide lens for spectacular photos, giving you a solid foundation for all the AI modes listed above. The eye-popping Actua OLED displays in 2K resolution at a slick 120Hz refresh rate, and the whole device runs for over 24 hours on a full charge – and up to 100 hours using Extreme Battery Saver mode.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL 5G The Pixel 9 Pro XL ups the ante with a larger, higher resolution Super Actua display, and rounds out the camera array with a 48MP telephoto lens and a much sharper selfie cam. There’s also a bit of extra RAM, a beefier battery, and twice the storage space. Cameras: Rear

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 5G The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is Google’s most intriguing new phone. It’s got a full 6.3-inch Actua display on the front, but open it up like a book and there’s a double-size, foldable screen inside. Blow up content to fill the whole screen, or multitask like a pro across several windows at once. When taking photos, the outer screen can show a preview so that your subjects can nail their pose, or a fun animation to get the kids looking and smiling. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold claims a few records: it’s the thinnest, and has the

biggest inner display and the best camera system of any folding phone. The possibilities are endless! Cameras: Rear 48MP wide +10.5MP ultra wide + 10.8MP telephoto, front 10MP, inner 10MP Battery: 4,650mAh Display: 6.3” Actua front, 6.8” Super Actua Flex inner, 120Hz Performance: Tensor G4 chip, 16GB RAM, Gemini AI Internal storage: 256GB/512GB

Cameras: Rear 50MP wide + 48MP ultra wide, front 10.5MP Battery: 4,700mAh Display: 6.3” 2K Actua OLED, 120Hz Performance: Tensor G4 chip, 12GB RAM, Gemini AI Internal storage: 128GB/256GB

50MP wide + 48MP ultra-wide + 48MP telephoto, front 42MP Battery: 5,060mAh Display: 6.8” 3K Super Actua, 120Hz Performance: Tensor G4 chip, 16GB RAM, Gemini AI Internal storage: 256GB/512GB

18 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

FEATURE TECH

HOT NEW SMARTPHONES

And now for something completely different! Venture off the beaten track and you’ll find some quirky phones with features that you might not expect. Words Michael Irving

HMD Barbie Flip Phone Chic, sleek, and pink, this old-school flip phone is unmistakably Barbie, but it lets you add your own personal touch too with included stickers, crystals, and a beaded lanyard. While the style is anything but basic, this phone is about getting back to basics and enjoying quality time with friends and family – there are no distracting apps, just calling and texting to organise your next IRL hang. Everything onscreen looks straight out of the Barbie Dreamhouse, and there are

OPPO A80 5G The affordable OPPO A80 5G draws you in with its big, beautiful screen, with both ultra-bright and eye comfort modes. Don’t be fooled by its looks though – this phone can stand up to drops, knocks, and the elements with its special 360° Armour Body. A dedicated portrait camera, plus the all-important selfie cam, back up the 50MP rear main camera, and the OPPO A80 is powered by a beefy battery with lightning-fast 45W SUPERVOOC charging.

even a few hidden surprises to find… Camera: 0.3MP Battery: 1,450mAh Display: 2.8” internal, 1.77” external Performance: Unisoc T107, 64MB RAM Design: Flip phone Internal storage: 128MB

Cameras: Rear 50MP + 2MP, front 8MP Battery: 5,100mAh, 45W SUPERVOOC charging Display: 6.67” HD+ LCD, 120Hz Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 6300, 8GB RAM Design: 360° Armour Body, IP54 Internal storage: 256GB

Nothing CMF Phone Few phones are as customisable as the Nothing CMF Phone. Not only can you switch out the back cover for something more “you,” but you can add on functional accessories too, like a stand, a lanyard, or a card holder. On the inside, you can also boost your storage space up to a roomy 2TB with a microSD card, and double the processing power with the RAM Booster. Camera features are impressive, too – the Sony 50MP main camera captures true-to-life images, while Ultra XDR tech (co-developed with Google) enhances lighting when conditions aren’t the best.

Motorola moto g85 5G The moto g85 packs a gorgeous pOLED display that curves around the edges for a seamless design. The camera array captures everything from close-up detail with the macro lens, to squeezing in the whole crew with the ultra-wide lens, while the Sony LYTIA 600 sensor enhances details in any light. The generous 34-hour battery life will keep you going all day and well into the next, while optional vegan leather finish adds a unique touch of class.

Cameras: Rear 50MP, front 16MP Battery: 5,000mAh, 33W fast charging Display: 6.67” FHD+ Super AMOLED, 120Hz Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 7300, 8GB/16GB RAM Design: Interchangeable, IP52 Internal Storage: 128GB/256GB Expandable memory: Up to 2TB with microSD card

HMD Skyline The HMD Skyline features a better-than-FHD display and is a veritable photography powerhouse, sporting a 108MP main camera, a 50MP telephoto lens, and a 50MP selfie cam that supports hands-free gesture control. And you can get up close with up to 4x zoom for outstanding clarity, and capture shots with a natural bokeh effect. Perhaps the coolest feature of the HMD Skyline is that some components are replaceable. If you crack the screen, want a change of cover, or your battery life is wearing down, you can swap those out yourself via the iFixit DIY service (see page 16).

Cameras: Rear 50MP, front 32MP Battery: 5,000mAh, 30W fast

charging Display: 6.7” FHD+ pOLED, 120Hz Performance: Snapdragon 6s Gen 3, 8GB RAM Design: Silicone/vegan leather, PMMA/Acrylic Internal storage: 256GB Expandable memory: Up to 1TB with microSD card

Cameras: Rear 108MP + 50MP, front 50MP Battery: 4,600mAh, 33W fast charging Display: 6.55” FHD+ pOLED, 144Hz Performance: Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, 8GB RAM Design: Repairable, IP54 Internal Storage: 256GB Expandable memory: Up to 512GB with microSD card

19

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

From quality entry-level and mid-range phones, to premium models with all the bells and whistles, there’s a smartphone to suit your spend and needs.We’ve selected some of the latest and greatest phones that run the gamut of features and functionality. Words Bec Summer SMARTPHONES FOR EVERY BUDGET

OPPO Reno12 series 5G

OPPO continues making a name for itself with its powerful, stylish, and affordable Reno series of phones. The latest models are the Reno12 and Reno12 Pro, featuring an Ultra-Clear Triple Camera system and enhanced AI powered abilities. Both models sport a big, beautiful 6.7-inch AMOLED display, with a 2412 x 1080 resolution and a refresh rate up to a silky smooth 120Hz. They’re running on a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, powered by a beefy battery that provides up to 38 hours of non-stop talk time on a full charge. The 80-watt SUPERVOOC Flash Charging will get it back to 100% in under an hour. The Reno12 packs 256GB of internal storage space, while the Pro model doubles that to 512GB. Reno12 models have a triple camera system on the back, including a telephoto, ultra-wide and macro lenses, plus some of the most detailed selfie cameras you’ll find on a phone this year. On the Reno 12 that’s 50MP + 8MP + 2MP cameras at the rear, and a 32MP round the front, while the Reno 12 Pro jumps up to a 50MP + 50MP + 8MP rear camera trio and a 50MP selfie cam. Other new features include AI Portrait Expert tools that let you tweak photos, like erasing unwanted people or objects in the background, increasing clarity and detail in faces, picking each person’s best face across different takes, and a range of creative studio options. If you’re looking for premium features in a stylish mid-range phone, the OPPO Reno12 series has you covered. Internal storage: 256GB (Reno 12)/512GB (Pro) Expandable memory: Up to 1TB with microSD card Battery life: Up to 38 hours Cameras: Rear 50MP + 8MP + 2MP, front 32MP/50MP (Pro)/Rear 13MP, front 8MP (Pulse) Durability: IP65 | Wi-Fi 6E

HMD Pulse and Pulse Pro 4G

The HMD Pulse is a cool alternative to the big players, with a focus on affordability, repairability, and a great design that HMD calls a “celebrity vibe”. The Pulse features a 13MP dual main and 8MP selfie camera and boasts a neat, gesture-based selfie function that starts a three second countdown with a simple thumbs-up. A three-day battery life and 128GB of storage – plus MicroSD card support – lets you continually capture and create content with confidence. And in the event of a cracked screen, bent charging port or a dead battery, the Pulse is designed for easy DIY repairs via the dedicated HMD online repair hub (see page 16). The HMD Pulse comes in two models, the Pulse and Pulse Pro, with the latter sporting a 50MP + 2MP main and 50MP selfie camera, and either one is a great fit for everyday snappers and content creators. If you want a cool looking phone with essential features and functions at a price that won’t break the bank, get your fingers on the Pulse. Internal storage: 128GB Expandable memory: Up to 256GB with microSD card Battery life: Up to 59 hours Cameras: Rear 50MP + 2MP, front 50MP (Pro)/Rear 13MP, front 8MP (Pulse) Durability: IP52 | Wi-Fi 5

20 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

SMARTPHONES FOR EVERY BUDGET continued

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 5G

Nothing Phone 2 and 2a 5G Nothing came out of nowhere a few years ago and reinvented the smartphone with a sense of style. The company’s central design principle is to bring the fun back to these everyday devices that we now take for granted – without skimping on the power and features.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 is a thing of beauty that boasts a lighter, thinner, and wider design than its predecessor, with a 6.3” cover screen and a brighter 7.6” main display protected by tough Gorilla Glass. Offering a tablet-like experience when fully unfolded, it’s designed for multitasking, and optimised for maximum productivity, with cool new generative AI features including creating messages from basic prompts, transcribing voice recordings into text, turning a rough sketch into a fully-fledged image, and live language translation. Moreover, if you've spotted something online that you must have, simply draw a ring around it using the Circle to Search function and voila, you’ll get more details on what you’re looking for. When it comes to photography, the 50MP main camera captures clear shots day or night, with object recognition and AI-powered editing tools like Photo Assist for filling in backgrounds, resizing and moving objects around within photos. Packing a sizeable 4400mAh adaptive battery, which automatically optimises based on usage patterns, you’ll get more power than ever to do all that you do. Internal storage: 1TB/512GB/256GB Battery: 4400mAh Cameras: Rear 50MP + 10MP + 12MP, front 4MP + 10MP Durability: IPX8 | Wi-Fi 6E

The Nothing Phone 2 and 2a pack a versatile, high-definition camera system comprising a front 32MP, and rear 50MP main and 50MP ultra-wide lens. Advanced HDR can combine eight frames for the best possible shot, and content creators can shoot in 4K/60fps video using the main rear camera, or 1080p/60fps with the front. The big, bright, Full HD+ 6.7” OLED display has a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling, and the 4,700mAh and 5,000mAh battery (2 and 2a, respectively) will last up to two days, depending on usage. The 2 and 2a also feature a cool point of difference called the Glyph Interface, which allows you to customise contacts and notification alerts with specific light patterns and ringtones, so you’ll know who’s calling without needing to check the screen. Internal storage: 512GB (2)/128GB, 256GB (2a) Battery life: Up to 22.5 hours Cameras: Rear 50MP + 50MP, front 32MP Durability: IP54 | Wi-Fi 6

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 5G One of the trendiest phones currently available, the ultra compact Galaxy Z Flip6 features a 3.4” cover screen and an extra bright 6.7” main display for better outdoor visibility, with upgraded Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for full-strength durability. The phone’s flip design allows you to get more creative with

photography, via a variety of configurations and angles. The camera system has been upgraded to a 50MP wide rear camera, along with a 12MP ultra-wide rear and 10MP front camera for selfies, while Flex Mode and Flex Cam lets you switch between standard and ultra-wide lenses and Auto Zoom with one touch. Cool new AI-powered features can generate original wallpapers from a simple sketch, transform photos into 3D comic avatars, and translate supported languages on both the main and cover screen so that the transcript is fully visible during a real time conversation. And the Gemini app puts Google’s new AI assistant right at your fingertips (see page 12).

Battery size has been increased from 3,700mAh on the Galaxy Z Flip5 to 4,000mAh, and there's more stable cooling via a vapour chamber that prevents overheating when performing heavy-duty tasks. Internal storage: 256GB/512GB Battery: 4000mAh Cameras: Rear 50MP + 12MP, front 10MP Durability: IPX8 | Wi-Fi 6E

22 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

GRAB SOME SMART ACCESSORIES

Totally charged Grab some great charging options, including the super-fast Qi2 wireless charging. Portable power For those big days when you know smartphone battery life will be an issue, opt for a mobile power bank. It magnetically attaches and utilises wireless charging technology to top up. You won’t even notice it. Mophie Magnetic Wireless Power Bank compatible with MagSafe and Qi-enabled smartphones. Available in five colours.

Words Bec Summer

Wristlets Phone charms, or wristlets, have hit a wave of resurgence thanks to TikTok. They’re a great way to prevent your phone from getting lost, and to express your personality with a fashion statement.

Fashion fits Fashion-focused accessories are an essential add to any smartphone purchase. PopSockets The ever-popular PopSockets provide the best position for streaming on a smartphone, give a secure grip, and work wonders for fidgeters waiting for their friends to turn up. Check out these brand new PopSockets hitting stores now.

Case-Mate Wristlet Beaded Boho Crystal

Case-Mate Wristlet Beaded Pearl Crystal

Smartphone lanyards It’s estimated that we spend around six months over a lifetime looking for things. How much of that is looking for your smartphone? If you nodded your head after reading that sentence, then maybe a smartphone lanyard is the answer? When you need it, it’s always there!

Green Blue White Pink Black

Qi2 chargers – the next generation The latest upgrade in wireless charging, Qi2, increases the power output to enhance charging speeds. It also offers improved efficiency, and reduces energy loss. Here are a couple to choose from.

EFM Universal Mobile Lanyard (Sand)

EFM Universal Mobile Lanyard (Solid Black)

Belkin BoostCharge Pro 2-in-1

Wireless Charging Dock with Qi2

MagSafe Suction Phone Mount You don’t need that extra pair of hands when you want to take a photo anymore. Seek out a smooth, flat surface and utilise the MagSafe suction phone mount! Case-Mate Stick It! MagSafe Suction Phone Mount

Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Magnetic Charging Stand with Qi2

24 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

'Tis the season for spring cleaning! If you have trouble motivating yourself to keep up with the chores, a new vacuum cleaner can make it fun. But which type is best for your needs: a stick vacuum, a robot, or a wet-and-dry? Words Michael Irving What’s the difference? The three main types of vacuums you’ll find now are the stick vacuum, the robot vacuum, and the wet and dry vacuum. Which type suits you best will depend on a range of factors, including the size and layout of your home, how many people there are in your household, whether you have kids or pets, your routine, and the kinds of messes you normally deal with, among other things. VAC TO THE FUTURE

Why not both? Of course you don’t have to choose just one – multiple vacuum types can work well together to cover different situations. For instance, a robot vac could keep your main rooms consistently clean, backed up by a stick or wet and dry vac for bigger messes or places that the robot can’t reach, like stairs or furniture.

OUR TOP STICK VACUUM PICK The name Dyson is synonymous with high quality stick vacuums, and for good reason. Their powerful products get this everyday chore done quickly and effectively and, dare we say, make it fun. Packing a 262AW motor that spins at 135,000rpm, the gen5detect is Dyson’s most powerful cordless vacuum. No dust or debris can Dyson gen5detect Absolute Cordless Vacuum escape the 100,000g of force generated by the Radial Root Cyclone technology. Three power modes tackle different situations. Eco mode maximises battery life over long cleaning sessions. Boost mode ups the suction power for intensive spot cleaning, and auto mode will adjust its suction power automatically across different surfaces. The gen5detect gets things cleaner than you ever thought

possible, starting with a blade of light that highlights dust on the floor. The HEPA filtration captures 99.99% of tiny particles down to 0.1 microns, while a piezo sensor counts them 15,000 times a second and automatically increases

the power as required. This info is displayed on the built-in LCD screen, telling you when your floor is properly clean. A 10-cell battery provides the longest runtime in a Dyson cordless vacuum – up to 70 minutes - giving you plenty of time to get the whole house spic and span. All this makes the versatile Dyson gen5detect extremely effective at cleaning all floor types, as well as couches, mattresses, and stairs.

STICK VACUUMS A stick vacuum is the closest thing to the traditional form factor, with the nozzle at the bottom and the motor and dust canister up near the handle. Being battery-operated means you no longer need to drag a power cord around behind you, or move from outlet to outlet as you vacuum different rooms. Instead, it’s easy to do as much or as little as you need, making it perfect for a weekly, whole home clean or quickly dealing with a spill.

The stick form makes vacuuming floors comfortable, and lets you reach deep under furniture. Pop the head off and use the pipe to reach into corners, or detach the stick itself for handheld mode, which is good for giving couches and beds a quick clean. Many stick vacuums also come with a variety of attachments, for things like dusting or pet hair. And, when you’re done, you can put it back on the charger stand, tucked away in a corner or cupboard, ready for next time.

26 SEPTEMBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au