STACK #244 February 2025

YOUR

TO MOVIES, TV, MUSIC, GAMING & TECH

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

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STACK Issue 244 FEBRUARY 2025 “In a few moments from now, she will speak to you from where she is through this electrical machine.” ISSUE 244 FEB ’25

WIN!

INSIDE:

TAKE TO THE SKIES WITH THE DJI FLIP THE LENOVO LEGION GO S HAS LANDED

WIN THE BRAND NEW SAMSUNG GALAXY S25 ULTRA PLUS WATCH 7 & BUDS 3!

PERKS see page 5 for details

CONTENTS

ISSUE 244 FEB

TECH 6 Tech tips 8-9 Samsung's S25 smartphone series unpacked 10 Slip on the Samsung Galaxy Ring 12 Back to uni shopping tips 14-16 Back to Uni: Laptops 18 Back to Uni: Microsoft 365 Copilot 20 Back to Uni: Chromebooks 22 Back to Uni: Tablets 24 Back to Uni: Portable monitors 26-28 Back to Uni: Essential accessories 30 Back to Uni: Party speakers 32-34 Portable payment solutions 36 DJI Flip drone review 38-44 The best and weirdest new tech at CES 2025 46 Curling made easy with the Dyson Airwrap i.d. 48 New tech at JB this month FLIP MAG AND READ FROM BACK 4 Take 5/Chart/Q5/ Wham, bam, game exam! 6 Let's Go! Checking out the Lenovo Legion Go S 8 Kingdom Come: Deliverance II interview 10 Civilization VII Q+A 12 Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii/ Monster Hunter Wilds 14-16 New games heading our way in 2025 18 Out this month/Editor's pick MOVIES & TV 20 Intro/Take 5/Filmmaker’s Signature 21 Merch of the Month/Charts/Socials 22 Wicked : Something Wicked this way comes 24 Saturday Night / The Last Breath 26 Smile 2 / Venom: The Last Dance 28 Juror #2 / Megalopolis 30 Piece by Piece / The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon - Season 2 31 Heretic : Hugh Grant’s villain era 32 Bob J: Looking back at Spielberg’s Duel 34 New from Imprint Films/New to 4K 36 Out this month/Editor’s pick 37 The latest anime MUSIC 38 My first album/ STACK Exchange 40 GNX is Kendrick Lamar’s latest long player and The Weeknd returns with Hurry Up Tomorrow . 42 New music from Tate McRae and Inhaler. 44 Sharon Van Etten releases her seventh studio album, while UK rocker Sam Fender is back with People Watching . 46-47 What’s gracing the shelves this month at JB 48 Vital Vinyl – Two early Capitol Records Beatles albums and Skyhooks' classic, Living in the 70’s . 50 Rock ‘n’ roll stories with Stuart Coupe. GAMING

2025

Samsung Unpacked is one of the major events on the tech calendar, with smartphone enthusiasts champing at the bit to get their hands on the South Korean electronics giant’s latest offerings. The first Unpacked for 2025 didn’t disappoint them, with the unveiling of the much-anticipated Samsung Galaxy S25 series raising the bar for premium smartphones. AI is the current tech buzzword, so it wasn’t surprising that exciting upgrades to Samsung’s Galaxy AI would be on the agenda, namely creating a more personalised experience for its users. The Galaxy S25 series is more than just a smartphone upgrade – it ushers in the future of AI, and Samsung’s partnership with Google’s Gemini could well redefine mobile computing as we know it. February is certainly a massive month for all things Samsung, with the long awaited launch of its new fitness wearable, the Galaxy Ring. Packed with all the health and sleep tracking features you expect from a smartwatch, the point of difference here is its more discreet form factor, providing accurate 24/7 monitoring literally at your fingertip. Paul Jones, Editor-in-Chief

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

Music Consultant Mike Glynn Marketing Manager Fleur Parker Chief Contributors Gill Pringle, Bob Jones Contributors Jeff Jenkins, Billy Pinnell, Bec Summer, Dan Nicholson, Michael Irving, Stuart Coupe, Trista McConville, James O’Connor, Michael Caverzan

Social Media Manager Glenn Cochrane Production Manager Craig Patterson

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

Correspondence STACK editor@stack.com.au

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, 2025 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.

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STACK’s TECH TIPS FOR UNI Use a password manager

Keep track of multiple accounts with a password manager, which generates strong passwords and automatically fills them in, saving you time and the hassle of remembering them all. Leverage cloud storage Platforms like Google Drive or OneDrive allow you to access files online from any device and automatically back up your work. Collaborative features can also make group projects easier. Download productivity apps Apps for note taking, task management, and time organisation

FEBRUARY

DYK?

Samsung originally sold dried fish, noodles, and groceries. The company started in 1938 as a trading business before moving into electronics in the late 1960s.

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.

can help you stay on top of your studies. Protect your investment

Keep your tech in tip-top shape when travelling to, from, and around campus. Consider a sturdy laptop bag to prevent any damage, and keep devices secure with antivirus software. Insurance to cover portable items is also a good idea.

How Much Storage Do You Really Need? Running out of storage can be frustrating, preventing you from taking photos,

1986

What was the hottest tech in…

downloading games, or using devices fully. Understanding different storage types helps you make better choices. HDD vs. SSD HDDs (hard disk drives) and SSDs (solid state drives) are common in desktops, laptops, and portable

We’ve become accustomed to smartphones and smartwatches tracking our health and fitness statistics daily. It’s something that most of us take for granted in 2025. And the arrival of Samsung’s smart ring this month highlights the creative way that brands are envisaging the future of wearables. However, back in 1986, when Top Gun was ruling the box office, Puma took a huge – albeit commercially unsuccessful – step into the future with a revolutionary product: the RS Computer Shoe. Conceived for the athlete, the RS Computer Shoe, designed by Peter Cavanagh, housed an integrated computer chip in the heel. Incredibly for the year, runners could plug the shoe into a computer and then analyse their performance – a true forerunner of modern fitness tracking. This tracked key running metrics that included distance, time, speed, calories burned, and steps. Embracing a retro-futuristic design, the RS Computer Shoe maintained

storage. SSDs are much faster, especially for gaming and software loading. However, HDDs offer larger storage at a lower cost. Many users run software on an SSD while backing up data on an HDD. Choosing an SSD Budget SSDs work fine for casual use, though high-end SSDs are better for tasks like 3D modelling. Some devices, like Xbox Series X, require proprietary storage. Why is 1TB less than 1TB? Drives always show less useable space due to reserved system storage and byte conversion. A 1TB drive typically has around 930GB available. How much storage do you need? For gaming, 1TB is ideal. Smartphones need at least 128GB, but 256GB+ is better for heavy users. Expandable storage like microSD cards can help. USB and cloud storage USB flash drives are great for small file transfers but lack high capacity. Cloud storage is useful but requires subscriptions and internet access. A mix of physical and cloud backups ensures security.

the form of a traditional runner, although the bulky heel compartment hinted at the embedded technology within. Despite the leap forward in concept and technological thinking, the RS Computer Shoe failed to ignite consumer interest and ran out of puff at the starting block. The average trainer in 1986 cost around $US70. Puma’s price for the RS was $US200! The high price and limitations of technology of the time prevented widespread adoption. The RS Computer Shoe remains a symbol of Puma’s forward thinking and would inspire the wearable tech revolution long before it became a reality.

Stay tuned for the very latest in smart home technology as we bring together another comprehensive guide to everything you need to know in the automated home world. On The Radar

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TECH FEATURE

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At the recent Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung revealed its latest showstopper, the Galaxy S25 series, comprising the Galaxy S25, S25+, and the premium S25 Ultra. These cutting edge smartphones feature even smarter Galaxy AI, upgraded camera tech, and a host of other enhancements. Let’s dive in and explore what’s new. Words Scott Hocking Smarter AI and UNPACKING SAMSUNG'S EXCITING NEW GALAXY S25 SERIES

And here’s the cool part: You can chat with Galaxy AI like it’s your friend and use new ways to search natively, like call up a specific photo from your album just by asking: "Find a picture of me on the beach from Christmas 2023." Galaxy AI is integrated across the S25 series including all the popular features like Live Translate, Note and Chat Assist, generative photo editing, and Circle to Search, which

On the hardware side, all three S25 models are powered by the new Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy Octa Core chipset. This beast of a processor delivers lightning-fast speeds, improved energy efficiency, and smarter on device AI. Combine that with Samsung’s One UI 7 software, and you’ve got a phone that feels more intuitive and personal than ever. Bigger screens and better cameras Displays and camera systems for the Galaxy S25 and S25+ remain the same as their S24 predecessors, at 6.2” and 6.7” respectively, with the rear camera array comprising 50MP wide, 10MP telephoto, and 12MP ultrawide, plus 12MP selfie camera up front.

supercharged performance Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series brings the future of AI to your pocket. With features like the new Now Brief, your phone gets even more personal. This handy tool lives in the Now Bar

and gives you at a-glance updates like your schedule, weather reports, and other key info based on the time of day. It’s just like having a personal assistant who knows your daily routine.

can now find a song without the need to open music apps, and also recognise phone numbers, emails and URLs*. The AI gets even smarter thanks to Samsung’s partnership with Google’s Gemini and Android, promising to redefine mobile computing as we know it.

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*Fees may apply to certain AI features at the end of 2025.

FEATURE TECH

And for video enthusiasts, the S25 series features a new pro-grade Log Video tool for maximum flexibility during the editing and colour grading process, while Audio Eraser handily removes any unwanted noise from videos – goodbye barking dogs. Other camera upgrades include more depth of field control via the Virtual Aperture function, and 10-bit HDR recording is now applied by default, ensuring

The Galaxy S25 Ultra takes things up a notch, with a more spacious screen than its predecessor – the Ultra’s biggest to date at 6.9 inches – along with an additional 50MP ultrawide camera complementing the 200MP wide, 10MP and 50MP telephoto cameras in the rear system. Samsung’s Nightography mode, a game changer for low light photography, now applies intelligent noise reduction based on whether your subject is moving or stationary.

photos and videos look richer and more detailed than ever. Extra power, better health, and sleek design Say goodbye to lag with 12GB of RAM across all models; switching between apps is faster, and everything feels smoother. The Samsung Health app is also stepping up its game with new features like mindfulness and mental health coaching, a vascular load indicator for heart health, and even an antioxidant monitor. SmartThings, Samsung’s smart home hub, now includes pet monitoring and ambient sensors that can tell if you’ve fallen asleep on the couch – and turns off your smart TV for you! The S25 series also sports minor design

tweaks; slimmer bezels, stronger titanium frames, and rounded edges (on the Ultra) make these phones both durable and stylish. Choose from colours like Titanium Black, Grey, Silver Blue, and White Silver for the Ultra, or Mint, Icy Blue, and Navy for the S25 and S25+. The Galaxy S25 series isn’t just a smartphone upgrade – it’s a leap forward. From smarter Galaxy AI with Gemini integration and more personal user interaction, to stunning new camera capabilities, Samsung has once again redefined what flagship phones can deliver.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 series at a glance

Galaxy S25 6.2” Dynamic AMOLED 2X with Adaptive 1~ 120Hz refresh Camera: Rear 50MP wide, 10MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide / Front 12MP front Video @60fps, UHD 8K (7680 x 4320) 4,000mAh battery with 25W Qi fast charging IP68 water and dust resistance Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth v5.4 connectivity Storage options: 256GB/512GB

Galaxy S25+ 6.7” Dynamic AMOLED 2X with Adaptive 1~ 120Hz refresh Camera: Rear 50MP wide, 10MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide camera / 12MP front Video @60fps, UHD 8K (7680 x 4320) 4,900mAh battery with 45W Qi fast charging IP68 water and dust resistance Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth v5.4 connectivity Storage options: 256GB/512GB

Galaxy S25 Ultra 6.9” Dynamic AMOLED 2X with Adaptive 1~ 120Hz refresh Camera: Rear 200MP wide, 10MP + 50MP telephoto, 50MP ultrawide/Front 12MP Video @60fps, UHD 8K (7680 x 4320) S Pen included 5,000mAh battery with 45W Qi fast charging IP68 water and dust resistance Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth v5.4 connectivity Storage options: 1TB/256GB/512GBB

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TECH FEATURE

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you’ve been overdoing it or had a restless night, there’s no excuse for skipping the morning run. Once you’re up and active, auto-detection tracking kicks in for walking and running, while real-time heart rate monitoring keeps tabs on your ticker and can alert you if HR is too high or low. It’s also a good motivator, prompting you to move throughout the day if periods of inactivity are detected. During workouts, duration and calories burned are

The Samsung Galaxy Ring is your 24/7 health and wellbeing coach. Slip it on for continuous tracking and a comprehensive insight into your health and wellbeing. Words Scott Hocking T he Samsung Galaxy Ring joins a relatively new category of fitness wearables, smart rings, which pack the health tracking withstand everyday wear and tear, and is water resistant up to 100m – you can wear it in the shower, and when swimming or snorkelling. What does it track? ONE RING TO RULE THEM ALL

logged and heart rate is constantly measured, including target HR zones based on exercise intensity. More discreet and comfortable than wearing a

watch to bed, this little ring will track your sleep with precision, analysing nightly patterns such as movement, time spent in

bed, heart rate, and respiration. Women’s health tracking can also be enabled, with skin temperature readings used to predict

features and functionality of a smartwatch into a small and elegant band that’s always in close contact with the skin, allowing its tiny sensors to accurately monitor your vitals and sleep.* Providing a holistic approach to health analysis plus personalised insights, the Galaxy Ring is your 24/7 health and wellbeing coach, with seven-day battery life and an extra week of power stored in the charging cradle. Size it up first The Galaxy Ring comes in nine sizes, so it’s important to try before you buy to ensure a correct and comfortable fit. A sizing kit is available at a nominal fee for precise measurement, and the sample ring should be worn for at least 24 hours. Look good while feeling good Sporting a classic, fashionable design and just 7mm wide and 2.6mm thick, the Galaxy Ring should be worn on the index, middle, or ring finger. However, the index is deemed best for optimal health tracking. Comfortable enough for all-day – and night – wear, chances are you’ll forget that it’s on your finger. The Ring is also built titanium tough to

menstrual cycles and ovulation. A Galaxy of connectivity

The Galaxy Ring works with the Samsung Health app, and the good news is there’s no subscription required. Here you can access all the health and wellbeing data logged by the Ring, as well as various workout-tracking options. The app can also provide wellness tips for improving sleep, exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and overall health. Simply select what you want to track based on your goals to receive personalised suggestions. For starters, the Ring uses Galaxy AI to calculate your physical readiness for the day – based on the previous day’s activity, your average sleep time, and heart rate – and assigns you an Energy Score. So, unless

While the Galaxy Ring and Samsung Health app are a perfect match, should you want to extend the Ring’s functionality, it can be integrated across other compatible Galaxy devices for an even greater user experience. The integrated Health app can collect and analyse data from multiple devices for a more comprehensive insight into your overall health, and pairing with a Galaxy watch enables continuous tracking across both devices. Pairing with a Galaxy smartphone unlocks a cool feature that can disable alarms or take a photo using a simple double-pinch gesture. And should the Ring go missing, it can be easily located using the Find My Ring function, regardless of whether it’s nearby or offline.

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*While health and fitness devices provide accurate readings, they are not intended to replace professional advice from a GP.

Available in selected stores.

TECH FEATURE

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UNI BACK TO

Whether you’re stepping on campus for the very first time or returning to university following a long summer break, having the right tech can make all the difference. Our handy Back to Uni guide can help you choose the best devices and accessories for the new year of learning. Words Bec Summer

C hoosing the right tech for university doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by identifying your needs, set a realistic budget, and focus on devices that offer durability and functionality. Also explore apps and tools that can enhance productivity and make campus life and study easier. With the right tech in your bag, you’ll be equipped to tackle the new uni year with confidence.

Check BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies Before you go shopping it’s essential to check with the university to determine the student technology policy, as they can differ. Make sure the device(s) you’re intending to purchase fall within the uni’s guidelines. Also ensure that hardware and software meet the specifications of your course, and check if your course has specific tech requirements. Know what you need Think about the tech you really

need to benefit your course. Are you an engineering student who requires a laptop capable of running complex software, or a literature major looking for a lightweight device to type essays and conduct research? Considering essential factors such as performance, portability, battery life, and specialised features can help make it easier to

Try before you buy Where possible, test out demo models in store to get a feel for the tech you want. For example, if you’re buying a laptop, test the keyboard and trackpad, display quality, and overall build to ensure comfort and usability. It also pays to read user and expert reviews from trusted websites before you buy.

whistles, remember that university life brings plenty of other expenses. The good news is that quality mid-range devices can deliver great performance and everything you need without breaking the bank. Look out, too, for student discounts and any special deals that will stretch your budget even further.

find the right device. Budget wisely

Tech can be expensive, so setting a budget is essential. While it’s tempting to grab the latest shiny devices with all the bells and

THE TOP TECH FOR UNI

LAPTOPS Page 14-16

CHROMEBOOKS Page 20

TABLETS Page 22

PORTABLE MONITORS Page 24

ACCESSORIES Page 26-28

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TECH FEATURE

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BACK TO UNI

A good, high-specification laptop is more than just a device – it’s a student’s constant companion, study buddy, project partner, and entertainment hub throughout university years. Words Bec Summer LAPTOPS

D esktops have their perks, but they’re not exactly built for campus life. A laptop is a tried-and-true form factor that can follow you everywhere – lectures, libraries, cafes, public transport – and is versatile enough for research, taking notes, writing essays, designing, coding, video editing, and more. Better yet, laptops are self contained with everything you’ll need, but are easy to accessorise as required – plug in an external monitor, a mouse, etc, and you can be even more productive. Before you go laptop shopping, it’s important to first check the university’s BYOD (bring your own device) minimum and recommended requirements, which can vary between unis. And some faculties like medical and engineering can have their own recommendations.

drives. A 512GB SSD is a great starting point, but 1TB may be necessary for students working with large media files. If you want to conserve laptop storage space, sign up for cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox to store documents, videos, photos, and other files on external servers for access online as needed. Some brands can even offer free subscriptions to these services for a year or two, so keep that in mind. Long battery Life

What to look for in a laptop for uni

Display resolution A sharp and vibrant display makes long hours of reading or designing a lot more comfortable on the eyes – opt for Full HD 1080p resolution or higher. Processor (CPU) For smooth multitasking and

Uni students often spend long hours on campus, hopping from class to class, so a battery that can last eight hours or more on a single charge is recommended. You don’t want to be hunting for power outlets during back-to-back classes. Portability and durability Students carry their laptops from class to class all day long, so a slim and lightweight design is the way to go – 13-15 inches is perfectly portable. University laptops can tend to take a beating and are a workhorse throughout the year, so be sure to pick a durable model that can stay the distance. Ports and connectivity USB-C, HDMI, and 3.5mm headphone

Why do I need a high specification laptop for uni? University tasks often go beyond basic computing and can require software for things like design, data analysis, coding, 3D modelling, and video editing. A high-specification laptop can keep up with the demands of more complex courses and workloads. Buying a high-spec laptop might seem daunting, but there are many quality mid-range models available that won’t break the bank. Think of it as a long-term investment. A more advanced laptop is essentially future-proofed to keep up with evolving tech and your needs throughout your university years and beyond.

handling complex programs and AI-assisted tasks, look for at least an Intel Core i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen 5/7 processor. RAM A minimum 8GB of RAM will ensure a laptop doesn’t slow down during multitasking. If you can, aim for 16GB or above for even faster and smoother performance. Storage Solid-state drives (SSD) are faster and more reliable than hard

jacks offer flexibility for connecting peripherals, projectors, and wired headphones.

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TECH FEATURE

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BACK TO UNI

AI assistance Generative AI like Microsoft’s Copilot+ (see page 18) can be an extremely useful tool for students conducting research or needing to quickly summarise key points in long documents. It can also check grammar, transcribe lectures, generate images for projects and presentations, and more.

Choose a 2-in-1 for more flexibility

These hybrid devices combine the best of a laptop and a touchscreen tablet. The display has a 360° hinge for easy switching between traditional laptop mode and a tablet mode –

just flip it over and you’re good to go. Touchscreen functionality is ideal for creative tasks like digital art and graphic design, while handwriting notes with a digital pen during

lectures can improve memory retention and is quieter than typing. A 2-in-1 can also be propped in tent mode for group video calls, remote lectures, or watching a movie when study is done.

HIGH-SPEC LAPTOPS FOR UNI

Dell Inspiron 16 5645 16” FHD+ Laptop with Built-in AI (Ryzen 7) [1TB] Sporting a spacious 16 inch, Full HD+ display and powered by the latest AMD Ryzen processors with inbuilt AI, this laptop is a smooth operator, with lightning fast switching between apps for easy multitasking. Dell ComfortView Plus keeps things easy on the eyes during long study sessions, and the big battery delivers a generous 15+ hours use from a full charge. Display: 16” FHD+ Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 8840U 8 core 3.3–5.1GHz RAM: 16GB Storage: 1TB SSD Ports: HDMI x1, USB 3.2 x2, USB-C x1. SD card Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth v5.3

HP Laptop 15-fd1010TU 15.6” FHD Laptop (Intel Core Ultra 7) [512GB] Ideal for students, this lightweight laptop has ample screen real estate and RAM, multiple ports, good battery life, and the powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 chipset under the hood. Plus, integrated Intel media processing, allowing students to create highly detailed design concepts. Display: 15.6” FHD Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H 16 core, 1.4–4.8GHz RAM: 16GB Storage: 512GB SSD Ports: HDMI x1, USB-A x2, USB-C x1 Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.3 Arc graphics enhance content creation and

Lenovo Yoga S7i Evo 14” OLED WUXGA Laptop (Intel Core Ultra 7) [1TB] The slim and ultra-light Yoga S7i sports the Intel Evo badge of excellence, which means you can speed through big projects and multitask with ease. The OLED WUXGA (widescreen ultra extended graphics array) display is perfect for graphic design work, video editing and programming, and plenty of RAM, SSD storage, and up to ten hours of battery life round out a quality package. Display: 14” OLED Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H 16 Core, up to 4.8Ghz RAM: 16GB Storage: 1TB SSD Ports: HDMI x1, USB-A x2, USB-C x1, Thunderbolt 4.0 x2 Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth v5.3

Asus Zenbook 14” OLED Laptop (Ryzen 7) [1TB] This premium laptop is a multitasking marvel, with fast performance for juggling workloads, and next-gen graphics and AI options for smooth video conferencing and remote lectures – all on a sharp OLED display. Up to eight hours of battery life will see you through daily classes, and a spacious 1TB of SSD storage is perfect for saving large video files. Display: 14” OLED Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS, 24MB cache, up to 5.1GHz RAM: 16GB Storage: 1TB SSD Ports: HDMI x1, USB 3.2 x1, USB-C x2 Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth v5.3

MSI Prestige 12 AI+ Evo 13.3” 2.8K OLED Ultra-Lightweight Laptop (Intel Core Ultra 7) [1TB] A lightweight laptop for on-the-go use, the Prestige delivers on its name with premium features to tackle those big projects and workloads, and also carries the Intel Evo seal for outstanding performance. Get fast AI assistance via the dedicated Copilot key, and maximise your productivity with high battery efficiency and support for the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions. Display: 13.3” OLED Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 258V 8-core, 12MB

cache, 2.2GHz up to 4.8GHz RAM: 32GB Storage: 1TB SSD

Ports: HDMI x1, USB 3.2 x1, USB-C x2, Thunderbolt 4.0 x2. MicroSD card Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth v5.4

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TECH FEATURE

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BACK TO UNI

Will it help me be more productive?

Copilot can cut through a lot of the groundwork involved in studying, letting you focus more on what you're learning. Asking Copilot to check the essay you've written isn't that different from sending it to a friend for their opinion, except it happens instantly.

If you're a uni student, AI can't write your essays for you, but it can make it easier to hit your deadlines and keep your grades up. Microsoft Copilot AI features can now be paired with the Microsoft 365 suite of productivity apps that you use everyday, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint, streamlining certain processes and assisting you as you work towards your degree. Words James O’Connor MICROSOFT 365 COPILOT Your new study buddy

You can also use Copilot to help with formatting, such as asking for consistent line spacing across a whole document, or hitting the other criteria that your subject demands. It can generate ideas and discussion points if you're struggling to get a paper started, and help out when deadlines are looming, too. You can request a practice test in Word, based on the parameters and text links you give it, or create a study planner based on your existing calendar. What are some uses for Microsoft 365 Copilot outside of study? When it’s time to take a holiday, Copilot can help by generating an itinerary for how you'll spend your break, using any data you've input, including links to activities you'd like to do. It can also assist with planning a travel budget based on your income and spending, which is important if you don't want to get stuck eating nothing but noodles for a month. If you're looking for a job, Copilot can help with your resume by sorting your past jobs and experience into a well-formatted document, and can tailor an existing resume to better suit a specific job ad. If you have a part-time office job, or work in your field of study, a familiarity with Copilot may help you to be more efficient in the workplace when it comes to drafting emails, creating lists and Excel formulas.

What does Microsoft 365 Copilot do? Put simply, Copilot saves you time and lets you focus on the important parts of studying.* In Microsoft Word, Copilot's text generation can help you format an outline for an essay, or give you prompts for angles you should consider. You can ask Copilot to take the notes you wrote while reading this week's biology chapter and summarise them, or look for logical issues or inconsistencies in your work. You can also take your files from Word and ask PowerPoint to build a presentation based on them, saving you a lot of time copying and pasting. Copilot can also find new images for your slides or perform deck-wide formatting changes for consistency. Long emails, newsletters, and documents in your Outlook inbox can be compressed into quick summaries with Copilot, and you can run assessments on emails before you send them to see if you're hitting the right tone as you ask your tutor for an extension.

If you've created a spreadsheet in Excel, Copilot can offer up insights about the data you've collected, handily summarising the information. These are just a few examples – ultimately, all of Copilot's AI features aim to make a student’s life easier.

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* Microsoft 365 and Microsoft 365 Copilot both require annual/monthly subscription fees. **Minimum age limits may apply to use of AI features.

**Minimum age limits may apply to use of AI features .

TECH FEATURE

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BACK TO UNI

Lenovo Duet 11” WUXGA Chromebook (MTK838) [128GB] This basic Chromebook is highly versatile and great value for money, with a detachable keyboard and a kickstand for switching to tablet mode. The WUXGA (1920 x 1200) display delivers bright high-res visuals, with a 16:10 aspect ratio for more screen real estate – perfect for art projects, annotating documents and streaming video content. Display: 11” Storage: 128GB RAM: 4GB Ports: USB-C x2 Battery life: Up to 12 hours Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Starting university can be expensive, but your laptop doesn’t have to be. Chromebooks, running on Google’s Chrome OS, are a cost effective and efficient alternative to traditional laptops, and perfect for students on a budget. Words Bec Summer CHROMEBOOKS The affordable uni companion

HP 15a-nb0009TU 15.6" Full HD Chromebook Plus (Intel i3) [128GB] Get a performance boost from this Chromebook Plus with a speedy Intel processor for smooth multitasking, and a big 15.6-inch display that’s perfect for long screen sessions, designing, video calls and remote lectures. Plus, built-in AI video call tools ensure you’ll always look your best on camera. Display: 15.6” Storage: 128GB RAM: 8GB Ports: USB-A 3.0 x1, USB-C 3.1 x2 Battery life: Up to 11 hours Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.3

Why choose a Chromebook? Chromebooks are affordable because Google collaborates with manufacturers to keep the cost low. But don't let the price fool you – these devices pack a punch for everyday student tasks. If your course mostly involves online research, emails, writing essays or documents, dealing with spreadsheets, taking notes, or other things that don’t require a lot of computing power, a Chromebook could be the best thing for your budget. The Chromebook advantage Price isn’t the only pro – being smaller and lighter than most laptops, Chromebooks are even more portable. You can easily slip them into a bag or backpack and barely notice them as you rush between lectures.

A Chromebook’s simplicity also translates to faster boot times and a user friendly interface for a hassle-free experience, along with long battery life to keep you powered throughout the day. Chromebooks can be highly versatile, too, with detachable keyboards and kickstands for switching to tablet mode, and support for pens/ styluses for drawing and note taking. Security first Chromebooks prioritise safety, with built-in virus protection to keep them secure. A Verified Boot function keeps the system clean and malware free on start-up, while a technique called ‘Sandboxing’ isolates any potentially harmful software to prevent it from spreading. They also have an inbuilt, dedicated security chip for extra encryption of sensitive data such as user profiles, providing additional peace of mind. Seamless integration with Google If you’re already using Google services like Gmail, Drive, or Docs, Chromebooks make syncing and sharing a breeze. Logging in with your Google account lets you access all your files and settings across devices. Chromebook Plus for creative minds For uni students needing more power, Chromebook Plus models offer upgraded processors, more RAM, and sharper displays, making them ideal for photo editing, video production, and other advanced tasks.

ASUS CX34 14" FHD Chromebook Plus (Intel Core i5)[256GB] This premium Chromebook Plus has a spacious 256GB of storage and is powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core processor for peak performance during lengthy work and study periods. Optimised for multitasking, it’s ideal for photo editing and whatever demands your uni course requires. Display: 14” FHD Storage: 256GB RAM: 8GB Ports: HDMI x1, USB 3.2 x2, USB-C 3.2 x2 Battery life: Up to 10 hours Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.3

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Lenovo Tab Plus 11.5” 2K Tablet with Folio Case [256GB] Built for high-res visuals and audio, the Tab Plus features an 11.5” 2K display and eight JBL speakers with Dolby Atmos support, plus a Bluetooth speaker mode. It’s versatile, too, with a 175° kickstand for hands free viewing and reading, and it can also double as a clock or a digital photo frame while charging. Display: 11.5” 2K Storage: 256GB RAM: 8GB Ports: USB-C x1, microSD, 3.5mm audio jack Battery life: Up to 12 hours Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth v5.2

When thinking about essential tech for uni, laptops often take the spotlight. But have you considered a tablet? These sleek, lightweight devices are the perfect blend of portability and productivity, making them a great choice for students on the go. Words Bec Summer TABLETS

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 12.4” Tablet [128GB] This quality mid-range tablet is ideal for uni use, especially those studying creative subjects. It has a wide 12.4” display and S Pen for note taking, annotating documents, and drawing. Up to three supported apps can be run simultaneously in a flexible layout for greater multitasking across apps like Samsung Notes and Goodnotes. Display: 12.4” Storage: 128GB RAM: 8GB Ports: USB-C 2.0 x1, microSD Battery life: Up to 14 hours Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.3

Why choose a tablet for uni? First, they’re incredibly portable – thinner and lighter than most laptops, perfect for slipping into your bag as you dart between lectures. Plus, they operate on familiar systems, much like a smartphone, making them intuitive and easy to use. Whether you’re jotting notes, sketching designs, or reading lengthy documents, a tablet’s touchscreen display provides a tactile and engaging experience.

Tablets also shine in creative courses like visual arts, animation, and architecture, with the ability to draw directly on the screen with a digital pen. But they’re not just for artists – add a keyboard, and the tablet becomes a mini-laptop, ideal for essays and research. Most virtual keyboards can handle the work, but adding a

folio keyboard will up your efficiency. What to look for in a tablet A 10-inch screen strikes a good balance

Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra 14.6” Tablet [256GB] For students who need a spacious display, plenty of storage and tough durability, look no further than the S10 Ultra. This premium tablet also leverages the power of Galaxy AI for enhanced note taking and summarising, along with AI design and editing features. Turn sketches into artwork in a flash; get real time language translation for documents; and more. Includes S Pen. Display: 14.6” Storage: 256GB RAM: 12GB Ports: USB-C 3.0 x1 Battery life: Up to 16 hours Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth v5.3

between portability and functionality, but if your budget allows, a larger display is great for tasks like video editing and designing. Storage matters too – 64GB is a good starting point, but aim for 256GB if you’re tackling advanced projects. Many tablets allow

you to expand storage up to 1TB using a microSD card. Performance-wise, a speedy processor is essential for multitasking and running demanding apps, while a battery life of at least eight to ten hours keeps you powered throughout the day. Durability is another must;

go for a device with a tough casing and scratch-resistant screen to handle life’s bumps and knocks.

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What to look for in a portable monitor Size and weight A 13- to 15-inch display strikes the perfect balance between portability and usability. Choose a monitor that’s slim and lightweight – most can fit comfortably in a large laptop bag for easy transportation. Resolution Opt for at least Full HD (1920 x 1080) for sharp visuals for work and play. Connectivity USB-C and HDMI ports, along with wireless options, make it easy to pair a portable with your devices. Power Monitors that use your laptop as a power source or have a rechargeable battery are best for full portability. Adjustable stand If the monitor does not include a stand, it’s easy to accessorise with an adjustable stand or foldable protective case that doubles as a stand.

University life can be a juggling act, with online classes, lectures, and research all vying for your attention. Enter the portable monitor – a lightweight and compact second display that connects to your laptop or other device for use anywhere. Words Scott Hocking PORTABLE MONITORS

Why choose a portable monitor for uni?

sessions, all without crowding your desk. Portable monitors transform how students work and play, offering flexibility and efficiency whether at home, in the library, or at a café. Compact, easy to use, and incredibly versatile, a portable monitor is an investment in a smoother, more productive university experience. You’ll wonder how you managed without one!

For students studying design, video editing, or complex subjects like physics and chemistry, the benefits of having additional screen space are many. Need to tackle group projects? Sharing work on a portable monitor during study sessions or library meet-ups simplifies collaboration. And when it’s time to unwind, these monitors offer a larger screen for streaming binges or gaming

Portable monitors aren’t just about the extra screen space; they’re productivity

powerhouses. Imagine writing an essay on one screen while referencing research or lecture notes on another. With a portable monitor, multitasking becomes seamless, helping you to maintain focus and stay organised.

MSI Pro MP161 E2 15.6” FHD Portable Monitor Flexible, ultra-slim and lightweight, the Pro MP161 has all the basic features students need in a second screen at a great price, including a spacious Full HD display, multiple connectivity options, and a 180° foldout kickstand for adjustable viewing angles in portrait or landscape. Display: 15.6” FHD LED Refresh rate: 60Hz Response time: 4ms Ports: USB x2, HDMI x1

Lenovo ThinkVision M15 15.6” FHD Portable Monitor This highly affordable monitor is designed for dual screen multitasking and spreadsheets, and is perfectly portable for off-campus work and study. Two USB-C ports give you the option of powering both the monitor and laptop from one adapter, or simply power the M15 directly from the laptop using a single cable. Display: 15.6” FHD Refresh rate: 60Hz Response time: 6ms Ports: USB x2

Asus ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6” FHD Portable Monitor

espresso Display 15 15.6” FHD Portable Monitor Wafer-thin and highly versatile, this premium Aussie-designed monitor connects via a single USB cable and is powered by the host device – no charging required. The big touchscreen is simple to navigate and can be customised for work management via the espressoFlow app, and also used as a digital canvas or whiteboard for graphics, sketching, and note taking using free Jot software and the espresso pen (sold separately). Display: 15.6” FHD LED Refresh rate: 60Hz Response time: 11ms Ports: USB x2

Get a productivity boost with this ultra-thin Full HD monitor that has a wide viewing angle, flicker-free tech for smooth visuals, and blue light filtering to prevent eyestrain. The ZenScreen easily connects via a single USB cable, and also includes a foldable case that can double as a stand

for portrait or landscape modes. Display: 15.6” FHD Refresh rate: 60Hz Response time: 6ms Ports: USB x2

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You’ve ticked off the big stuff – laptop, tablet, portable monitor – but wait, there’s more! When you’re heading back to study, make sure that you have the right accessories to keep your gear powered up, and protected. Words Bec Summer ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES

CABLE MANAGEMENT

BAGS AND SLEEVES When you’re tripping from lecture to lecture, you want to ensure that your vital tech gear is safe and well protected.

While technology is great, cables are a necessary but often frustrating byproduct. There are options to keep them in check though… Crest Magnetic Cable Holders 6-Pack Tame that cable nightmare with these

Bellroy Tech Kit Storage Case Available in black or slate, this sturdy case is designed to protect all your tech accessories, conveniently and neatly stored together in one place.

ace rotating magnetic open/close clips, in black or white. Just stick them wherever needed to hold any cable up to 7mm thick. *Cables not included

STM Tower View Folio 18" Laptop Brief If you have an 18” laptop, then look no further for protection than this sturdy number, with space for accessories and a handy shoulder strap. It can even hold a 15” portable monitor.

BLUETOOTH

Wireless is wonderful, and advances in Bluetooth tech have led the way. From keeping track of your possessions to powering your audio, it can be a student’s best friend. Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker 2024 (Colour 4-Pack) Creative BT-W3X USB-C Bluetooth Transmitter

Bellroy Lite 14" Laptop Sleeve It may be light of weight, but this water resistant, padded sleeve is perfect for protecting smaller laptops or tablets. Grab it in black, ash, or clay.

Add some colour as you keep track of your tech and other important stuff like keys, cases, wallets and purses. Compatible with Android and iOS, the battery lasts up to three years.

This tiny USB-C powerhouse not only improves Bluetooth connection on up to four devices simultaneously, but it also enhances your audio.

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ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES ACCESSORIES

Keeping your gear powered up is essential for all students, and with the joys of wireless it’s now easier than ever! WIRELESS CHARGING

Satechi Dock 5 Multi-Device Charging Station with Wireless Charging If you’re super-connected, or have a multiple device family, then this USB dock

answers prayers for power, charging up to five devices simultaneously.

Alogic PackAway 3-in-1 Qi2 Wireless Charging Stand

Juice up your iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch wirelessly, all at the same time, with this single-cable charging dock that folds neatly for easy transport. *Devices not included

LAPTOP CHARGERS

While many high capacity power banks can charge a laptop, there are certain things to look out for. One of the biggest differences between laptop chargers and regular chargers for smartphones and other devices is the power output. Traditional chargers, for example, usually provide around 18W–30W of power – enough to charge a phone but insufficient for a laptop.

Laptop chargers need to deliver much more power and generally require anywhere between 20–100W, depending on the model. A 20K power bank can charge an average laptop once, and the higher the watts, the more times it can be charged. They can also differ in connection. Most laptops use a barrel-style connector or a USB-C port for charging. While USB-C is becoming more common with newer

models, older laptops often rely on proprietary barrel connectors. Keep this in mind if buying a replacement charger, as the wrong connector won’t fit your laptop. Laptop chargers also charge slower than phone chargers or regular power banks due to the larger battery and higher power requirements. However, they are generally designed for more efficient, long-term charging.

Cygnett ChargeUp Pro Series 25K Laptop Power Bank The ChargeUp Pro has plenty of juice to charge powerful USB-C laptops on the go. Multiple USB-C ports – including a dedicated 100W port – and a total power output of 118W lets you charge three devices at once, and you can keep track of the power bank’s battery level via a handy digital display.

Belkin BoostCharge Pro 3-Port Laptop Power Bank Ideal for charging laptops, iPads and MacBooks, this three-port bank has a 20K mAh battery and up to 65W power output from a single USB-C port. Two USB-C ports and one USB-A will charge three devices simultaneously, with a battery status display for keeping an eye on the bank’s available juice.

Cygnett PowerPlus 60W Dual Port Wall Charger Bring your laptop or phone up to full power before or after classes with this dual wall charger that supports fast charging via 30W optimal power from each USB-C port.

Belkin BoostCharge Pro 200W 4-Port USB-C GaN Charger Charge up to four devices at once with this wall charger that supports fast charging of most PD3.1 & PD3.0 enabled devices using intelligent power sharing. With a USB-C max output of 200W, it can power a MacBook Pro 16” from 0–50% in around 30 minutes. And it’s a GaN charger, which means it’s faster than regular chargers and won’t overheat.

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