12 Things to Expect from the iPhone 12

The iPhone 12 announcement and subsequent release feel close – at least it should. The last few weeks have seen the hype and rumors go into overdrive. Some rumors have been debunked along the way but new ones always seem to pop up – like an endless game of whack-a-mole. It is understandable to want to believe every single rumor. The thought of the perfect iPhone brimming with features is an annual rite of passage. That is until the over-the-top rumors slowly die, taking pieces of our hearts with them. Either way, the thrill, and excitement are always too good to pass up. Here is what to expect so far from the 2020 iPhones.

1. 120Hz ProMotion

The release of the 2020 iPad Pro saw the 120Hz that made its debut in 2018 retained. Naturally, Apple fans expected the technology to make it to the 2019 iPhones. When it eventually did not, it became almost universally agreed that 2020 would be that year. Obviously, right?

Well, not really. Twitter leaker Max Weinbach stated that while the Pro models would likely ship with a 120Hz-capable display from Samsung, the high refresh rate would not be activated. This means that none of the iPhones would be sporting a ProMotion display. Maybe next year? Cue the sad faces.

2. Design

While there will be no radical shift in design, it is said that all the iPhones would have even thinner bezels than the iPhone 11 range. Most people might not even notice as the bezels are already pretty small, except the imposing notch.

Speaking of the notch; while earlier reports had stated that the iPhone 12 range would have a much smaller notch, that will probably not happen either. A leak of the display panel, when super-imposed on various iPhone sizes showed that the notch would pretty much stay the same. It is barely even noticeable anymore, right?

Reports state that the notch will stay the same until Apple has the technology to make major changes to sensor placement.

3. Sound

Apple’s sound technology has always been above par. This year’s iPhones will feature richer and clearer sound with deeper bass if the sound samples obtained by Max Weinbach are anything to go by. This is when compared to the iPhone 11 range, which already had great sound.

4. Ports and Cables

Again, the 2020 iPad Pros are to blame for this. No, there will be no USB-C port on the iPhone 12. Alongside ProMotion, a more standard USB-C port was high on most people’s wishlists for this year’s iPhones. Not that there’s anything wrong with Apple’s proprietary lightning port. It would just be great to have one cable for all your smart devices. Think about it this way though, what would you possibly do with all the lightning cables you currently have?

Probably throw them away or find some creative use for them. Why? The new lightning cable will be braided. That’s right, no more damaged iPhone cables. Braided ones look better ad have superior durability. Still not USB-C though.

5. Packaging

The news has been everywhere, raising split opinions. Apple will exclude a charging brick from this year’s packaging. This means a smaller box and a thank you from the environment. Apple says that you have enough charging bricks already. What do you think?

6. Cameras

The collective belief is that this year’s iPhones will have a LiDAR scanner as part of the camera setup. Save for the bigger 120Hz screen, this is bound to make this year’s iPhones great AR devices.

What is not generally agreed on is the layout of the cameras. Earlier leaks showed uniform lens placement in each quadrant of the camera bump, with the flash in the middle. Newer, conflicting leaks show something similar to the current camera array. Time will tell with this one.

As for the camera quality, Ming-Chi-Kuo detailed certain improvements in the iPhone 12. The autofocus is said to be much-improved thanks to VCM OIS (Voice Coil Motor | Optical Image Stabilization) technology. From spring-based to magnet-based stabilization.

7. 5G

The iPhone 12 will be capable of mm-wave and sub-6GHz 5G. Rejoice.

Reports however say that 5G capability for next year’s iPhones will be region-dependent. This means that some regions may have not 5G iPhones at all or will have either mm-wave or sub-6GHz 5G. A story for another year though.

8. Batteries and Charging

iPhones are not known to have the largest batteries, but the iPhone 11s had great battery life for the most part. It is still disappointing, however, when iPhone batteries have a lower battery capacity than expected, as may be the case this year. Max Weinbach’s earlier prediction of 4000 to 4400 mAh batteries was seemingly debunked by another publication. The 3969, 3046, and 3110 mAh batteries for the Pro Max, Pro, and standard 11 respectively will reportedly be 3687, 2815, and 2775, plus 2227 for the new 5.4-inch model.

With those capacities, it is hard to believe reports of the inclusion of reverse wireless charging.

There are also reports that Apple will release a Qi wireless charging case with no lightning port to charge the iPhone wirelessly.

9. RAM

Leaks have continued to confirm that the Pro models will have 6GB of RAM while the standard models will have 4. With Apple’s optimizations in their devices, the 8, 12, and 16GB of RAM seen in high-end Android phones have never been necessary.

10. Processors

Leaks continue confirming the coming of the new A14 Bionic processor with this year’s iPhones. The chip’s architecture is yet to be confirmed but is likely 5nm.

11. Price

Twitter user Komiya stated that the iPhone prices will be as follows:

iPhone 12 | 5.4” | 5G | 64GB – $699

iPhone 12 | 5.4” | 5G | 128GB – $749

iPhone 12 | 5.4” | 5G | 256GB – $849

iPhone 12 Max | 6.1” | 5G | 64GB – $799

iPhone 12 Max | 6.1” | 5G | 128GB – $849

iPhone 12 Max | 6.1” | 5G | 256GB – $949

iPhone 12 Pro | 6.1” | 128GB – $1049

iPhone 12 Pro | 6.1” | 256GB – $1149

iPhone 12 Pro | 6.1” | 512GB – $1349

iPhone 12 Pro Max | 6.7” | 128GB – $1149

iPhone 12 Pro Max | 6.7” | 256GB – $1249

iPhone 12 Pro Max | 6.7” | 512GB – $1449

12. Launch

The notion is that there will be 4 iPhone models being released this fall. Mac Otakara claims that 4G variants of the iPhone 12 will be released first in October, followed by the 5G variants in November. The launch may be staggered, with some models coming before the rest. The Max tag is said to be changed to Plus for this year.

Are you excited or are you bummed out? As you decide, check out the best protective cases for your beloved devices.

Is 5G Worth it Today? – Cost Vs Reward

5G! The next-gen technology that’s touted to revolutionize the responsiveness and speed of our devices. It’s been hyped for a couple of years ever since Verizon ran the first field test for the “crazy-fast” cellular technology.

Suggestions have been made that 5G will be the foundational tech to power everything from remote surgery, augmented reality, to self-driving cars. The close of 2019 saw this technology turn from a future prospect to a reality for more than a select pool of early adopters

Major players such as Samsung have already laid their claim in the market through devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G, Samsung Note 10+ 5G and Galaxy S20 lineup. Their bitter rivals from Cupertino also have a lineup of as many as four 5G-enabled models set to be launched in the final quarter of 2020.

However, some rumors by Ming-Chi Kuo (a highly-regarded Apple Analyst) suggest that the successors to the widely popular iPhone 11 lineup may face a “potential delay risk”—pushing the mass production of the 2020 iPhones to October. Delay or not, the point is that 5G is here and it will soon be the norm.

But what exactly does 5G offer? Is it just hype? And more importantly, is it worth its hefty price? Here’s a brief breakdown of the implications of the next generation of wireless tech.

What’s the Fuss with 5G?

In it’s simplest form, 5G (fifth generation) is a cellular technology that is set to achieve speeds that eclipse anything we currently see in a typical cellular connection today.

Carriers such as AT&T and Verizon have recorded speed exceeding 1.7Gbps. This translates to downloading an entire season of your favorite TV show in mere seconds. But 5G doesn’t stop at the blazing speeds!

It also promises to reduce latency—facilitating a lag-free connection that could be a game-changer for self-driving cars, surgeons, virtual reality, and intense gaming. Other benefits of 5G include the ability to connect to more devices.

To Buy or Wait?

5G is great—that’s already set in stone! But is it the right time to invest in a 5G-enabled device? The case against 5G is two-fold. One, its range is limited and the coverage is spotty. Although 5G coverage is expanding to more cities and manufacturers are increasingly rolling out compatible devices, it’s not there yet—and it may take some time to mature, especially amid the pandemic.

Coverage aside, the main deterrent to the immediate adoption of 5G is the price of devices. Manufacturing a 5G phone is expensive and the wireless networks they use are pricey. This cost is then transferred to the consumer. The number of 5G-enabled phones that retail at anything less than $1000 is merely a handful.

This begs the question:  are you willing to pay a “premium price” for technology with limited coverage? Sure, 5G-enabled phones are nice to have—but not necessary (at least not yet). There’s no need to rush for a costly 5G phone just for the hype. Like any other technology, time will drive down the cost—and affordable 5G phones are on the horizon.

Samsung Galaxy Note 20 is Nigh – Here’s What to Expect

The wait is nearly over! The most anticipated Android smartphone is officially a few weeks away. Samsung recently confirmed the dates for its virtual Galaxy Unpacked 2020 event—which is scheduled for August 5.

We expect the South Korean company to unveil the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and a couple of other mobile devices—including the Galaxy Tab S7 and a 5G version of Galaxy Z Flip. As for the shipping date, rumors point to August 21, pending further confirmation.

As we countdown days to the unveiling of arguable the most powerful Android phone yet, here’s what to expect from the device:

Overview of the Specs

Models – 2? Maybe 3?

Drawing on the naming of its predecessors, most people assumed that Samsung would follow in its trend by naming the upcoming devices Note 20 and Note 20 Plus. But that doesn’t seem to be the case anymore.

A Bluetooth certification uncovered by MySmartPrice suggests the existence of a Note 20 Ultra. But then again, the rumor mills have consistently claimed that there will be two variations of the Samsung Galaxy Note 20. Long story short, expect two model – the Galaxy Note 20 and Galaxy Note 20 Plus/Ultra.

Display – Optimized Big Screen

A “more fine-tuned” 120Hz refresh rate technology, a low power display technology that could slash 20% of power consumption – the Galaxy Note 20 offers a lot to admire, if the rumors are true.

The regular Note 20 is expected to feature 6.42-inch screen (2345 x 1084)—while the larger Plus/Ultra model boasts of a 6.87-inch screen (3096 x 1444). You can also expect a more advanced in-screen ultrasonic fingerprint sensor that’s large enough to read two fingers simultaneously.

Design – Spick-and-span

As we enter the last lap to the much-anticipated release of the Note 20, we’re beginning to see glimpses of actual photos of the device. The most accurate leak comes from non-other than Samsung themselves.

In a July 1 post by The Verge, the news website got wind of a leak that appeared in Samsung Russia’s page. It showed a copper-colored device that’s similar to some of the earlier renders. A leaker known as Jimmy Is Promo also released what appears to be a hands-on picture of the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 phablet (Here’s are the front and back images). And judging from the uncanny resemblance with the image leaked by Samsung, we can assume it’s legitimate.

Other notable feature includes a change in the position of the S Pen housing from right to left, a plastic back cover for the Note 20, and four color hues (Mint Green, Copper, White/Grey, and Black). Oh, and the S Pen is rumored to offer new capabilities—including acting as a pointer.

Cameras – Space Zoom Abandoned?

Leaks of the purported camera placement have been circulating since the turn of the year. And most of them draw a similarity to the Galaxy S20. This includes the quad-lens setup and 108MP main camera for the Note 20 Plus. The device will also feature a laser focus sensor to solve focusing issues seen in the S20 Ultra.

It’s worth noting that a leak by Ice Universe suggests that Samsung may retire its 100x Space Zoom camera – at least until they iron its flaws. Instead, the manufacturer will adopt a 50x telephoto lens with a periscope-style design.

Processor – The Top Dog of Android

Qualcomm recently announced it most powerful 5G-enabled chipset – the Snapdragon 865 Plus. Although there’s no official claim on whether the Samsung Note 20 will run on the new chipset, history tells us that it’s given—and Ice Universe reiterates.

To make things more interesting, benchmark results flagged by the serial leaker show a phone thought to be the Note 20 topping the 3Ghz mark. The device in question managed a multi-core score of 3,220 and 985 on the single-core test. This outpaces every Samsung device—and possibly all Android phones.

Battery – Packing More Juice

The Galaxy S20 could get a 4,000 mAh battery — while the Ultra/Plus variant gets 4,500 mAh battery. This is a commendable upgrade from its predecessor. Combined with the energy-saving fine-tuned refresh rate technology and low power display technology discussed earlier, we could see a significant boost in daily longevity.

Price – Nothing New

For such as feature-packed mobile device, none of us was really expecting anything less than $900 or even $1,000—and the rumors confirm our suspicions. Besides, the Galaxy Note series has always been a premium offering since its early days.

Its predecessor retails at $950 with the Plus model going for $1,099. Similarly, Samsung’s other flagship—the Galaxy S20—starts at $999 to as high as $$1,399 for the S20 Ultra. Catch the drift? In fact, some rumor sources even claim that the Galaxy Note 20 might be the most expensive release by the company.

Planning to Buy the Best Android Mobile Device Yet?

With only a few weeks to go before Samsung unveils a device we’ve been drooling over for the better half of 2020; the excitement is at a fever pitch. Whether you choose to set aside $1,000 for arguably the best device of the year or stick with the Galaxy S10, Tech Armor has you covered. Our top-of-the-range screen protectors are designed to keep your investment in pristine condition.

The iPhone 12 is Taking Shape – And It’s Better than Earlier Rumors Suggested

Gleaming with excitement and welling in anticipation – tech aficionados and Apple Fanboys/girls must be riding on a roller coaster of emotions as the release of the newest line of iPhone draws near.

While earlier rumors had already set the stage for an exciting release, things have only gotten juicer in the last few weeks. The successor to the widely popular iPhone 11 is taking shape – and it’s beautiful.

But it’s not just about the aesthetic—the word on the street points to some serious raw power under the hood. Read on for the latest tittle-tattle on what Tim Cook and his team are cooking up in Cupertino.

Updated Release Dates – When Apple, When?

Let’s start off with the nagging question that keeps lingering in the mind of anyone who gives two cents about the iPhone: how much longer do we have to wait?

Drawing on earlier rumors and Apple’s tradition, we should be 2-3 months away from the release of the iPhone 12 lineup—but the media team at the Cupertino company is still hush-hush on development of things. Our only sources of information are prediction and whispers from leakers.

The rumors surrounding the most likely release date are wild. At its worst, a disheartening report by GizChina back on May 28 suggested that the release date of the new iPhones may be pushed back to late November—citing supply chain challenges due to the pandemic. An earlier report by The Wall Street Journal had suggested an October release date—citing similar COVID-19 disruptions.

For the optimists, an analyst report by Daniel Ives (according to AppleInsider), claims that Apple’s supply chain is up and running—and the September release date we’ve been accustomed to is back on track.

The latest rumors (July 23), come from a Japanese rumor source that claims the LTE version of the iPhone 12 will be released in October—and the 5G version later in November. But to be on the safer side and avoid heartbreaks, it’s advisable to take all this information with a pinch of salt—until we get an official announcement from Apple.

Here’s the Specs Sheet (*Rumored)

We compiled every tit-bit of information we could unearth from the most recent rumors and came up with what an iPhone 12 specs sheet would look like.

• Likely Release Date: Sometime in Fall 2020
• Number of Models: Four (iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Max, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max)
• Processor: A14 Bionic Chip
• Display: OLED screens and 120Hz refresh rate on the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max
• Rumored Prices: iPhone 12 ($649), iPhone 12 Max ($749), iPhone 12 Pro ($999), iPhone 12 Pro Max ($1,099)

Horse Power Under the Hood – Most Powerful Processor?

The iPhone 11 features an immensely powerful A13 (7-nanometer) bionic chip—that still holds its own against 2020 flagships a year later. And to what we can only assume is a huge flex by Apple, the company is set to introduce an even more powerful and efficient chip to juice up the upcoming iPhones.

PhoneArena claims that the predecessors to the iPhone 11 will be superpowered by an A14 (5-nanometer) processor. This promises to be 30% more power efficient and 15% faster than the A13. The current iPhones are already one of the most powerful smartphones in the market—and if these rumors are true, Apple is set to widen the gap further.

We May Get a 120Hz ProMotion Display Afterall

Displays with a refresh of 120Hz are nothing novel today. Manufacturers such as OnePlus, Samsung, ASUS, POCO, and OPPO have devices equipped with blazing fast displays. Apple is yet to experiment with the feature—but a June 26 rumor might change all that.

According to a tweet by Ice Universe—a Samsung leaker with a decent track record—the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max with finally boast of a 120Hz refresh rate. This leak coincides with another rumor appearing in MacRumors—in which an accessibility setting to “Limit Frame Rate” was identified in the iOS 14 developer beta. And judging from the fact that current devices capable of 120Hz refresh rates also have a similar setting, we can only assume the best.

There’s a Leak on (in) the Battery!

Amid all the exciting rumors, here’s one to spoil the euphoria—there could be a downgrade to the battery. A report by MySmartPrice claims that the next iPhones could have smaller batteries compared to the iPhone 11s—and other flagship in the market, for that matter. Here’s what the report noted:

• Apple iPhone 12 (5.4-inch) – 2227mAh
• Apple iPhone 12 Max (6.1-inch) – 2775mAh
• Apple iPhone 12 Pro (6.1-inch) – 2775mAh
• Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (6.7-inch)– 3687mAh

To stoke the fire, Ming-Chi Kuo (an Apple analyst) claims that the devices will not ship with a charging adapter—at all! Considering we expect 5G connectivity and higher refresh rates, these minuscule battery packs are somewhat underwhelming.

Are You Excited?

All things considered; the iPhone 12 is shaping up to be one of the best devices of 2020. It’s the personification of “beauty and brain”—so far. Stay in touch for more updates as the rumor mills continue churning out exciting news. For a sneak peek into other rumors not discussed in this article, kindly check out the previous post on the same. And while you’re at it, protect your devices with some of the nest screen protectors in the market.

An Overview of Light Phone II – Less is More

Would you buy a mobile phone that can only call, text, and set alarms?

In our current fast-paced and technologically-driven world, we are more attached to our iPhones and Androids than ever before. Some of us are trapped in an anxiety-inducing loop—whereby we can’t go a few minutes without reaching out for our phones. Open Twitter, get lost in the feeds for a few hours, put the phone away! A notification pulses, you’re back at it again…and so on.

While relying on our smartphones might sound harmless at face value, it’s actually a mental problem described as nomophobia—NO MObile PHone phOBIA. With increasing concerns regarding the impact of smartphones on our well-being, two designers came up with the Light Phone. A dinky device that claims to be “a phone for humans.”

The Ideology Behind the Light Phone II

Walk into any restaurant and there’s a good chance you’ll find a group of people eating together—but barely interacting as they’re all glued to their screens. To be honest, it’s quite easy to get lost in your smartphone.

Scrolling for 2 pages just doesn’t seem to cut it—and it’s partly the fault of our phones. You see; social media platforms, games, and other time-consuming apps are designed to lure and hook you one way or another. Light Phone II’s creators—Joe Hollier and Kaiwei Tang—realized this “trap” and launched a Kickstarter campaign for a device that freed users from the push notification cycle.

With the success of their original 2017 Light Phone, the company is back with the Light Phone II. This new device builds upon the first iteration—including some additional features. (PS: the first Light Phone could only make and receive calls).

Key Features and Specs

• Price: $350
• Battery Life: According to the company, a fully juiced battery can last you 3 days of usage or 7 days on standby.
• Dimensions: It measures 95.85 x 55.85 x 8.75 mm—with a weight of 78 grams
• Charging: The device comes with a Micro-USB charging port.
• Connectivity: It has 4G, WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS connections.
• It has a SIM slot that works with Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T network carriers in the U.S.—but you can also opt for a $30 Light Phone monthly plan.
• The Light Phone II comes with a headphone jack.

Review of the Light Phone II

The whole point of the Light Phone II is quite simple. No Twitter notification to ruin your dinner! No emails in the morning to disrupt your workout. By having LESS features on your phone, you get to enjoy MORE of life.

But based on hands-on reviews, the Light Phone II is a divisive device (*rhyme game on point). On the one hand, the phone is aesthetically appealing, its intentions are noble, and the battery life is respectable. On the other hand, PC Mag notes that it has issues with screen ghosting, call quality, and the design isn’t ergonomic.

So, is this device worth the $350 price tag? Well, this depends on the user. As Michael Zelenko from The Verge puts it, “There may not be a mass market for minimalist phones — they’re expensive, they’re superfluous, they’re extra — but there could be niche markets for the Light Phone: well-to-do campers, weekend warriors, the hyper-wired looking for relief.”

Nomophobia – Could You be a Smartphone Junkie?

Most of us depend on our mobile devices for a ton of business and personal needs—so it’s understandable if you feel concerned over losing them. In fact, research shows that the average user takes a peek at their smartphone roughly 34 times every day—totaling to at least 4 hours.

Think about it…what do you do when you’re uncomfortable at an event? Pretend you’re preoccupied with your smartphone! Bored in your cab? Scroll through random apps! But this is not really an issue if it’s occasional. The concern arises when you have an overwhelming fear of losing your smartphone—aka., no mobile phone phobia (shortened to “nomophobia”).

Nomophobia in a Nutshell

If thoughts of being separated from your devices cause distress, you could be suffering from the condition. The same applies to those of you who feel unusually anxious over losing service or a dead battery. In every sense of the word, nomophobia is an addiction where you lose impulse-control.

As bizarre as it sounds, most of us are unknowing victims. According to a British survey highlighted in The Telegraph, around 1 in every 2 people suffer from nomophobia. In another study on Indian students, 82% of the respondents showed moderate-severe symptoms of nomophobia. With such high prevalence rates, it’s important to understand a thing or two about the addiction—which is the purpose of this post.

What Causes Nomophobia?

In actual sense, the real issue is not with your mobile phone—it has more to do with what is contained in the phone. The reason for your loss of impulse-control is hinged on the apps, games, and other online activities that take up your time. Below are some of the most common culprits to the compulsions:

• Compulsive internet use: Do you find yourself “itching” to log into a certain app. This may include checking news feed every few minutes/hours, web surfing for hours day-after-day, or often getting lost watching videos, among others.
• Virtual relationships: Compulsive messaging, texting, dating apps, and social networking can come at the cost of your real-life relationships. This also includes addiction to adult messaging services, nude-swapping, sexting, or pornography.
• Gaming: Most games are designed to hook and reel you in—turning you into a loyal customer. While the gaming companies are after profits, the games can be the source of your nomophobia.
• Gambling or serial bidding: Gambling in itself is a mentally and financially dangerous habit. So when gambling platforms are only a tap away, the risk of nomophobia is rather high.

As you can already tell, it’s relatively easy to fall victim to nomophobia. This is why companies such as Light are releasing devices (i.e., Light Phone and Light Phone II) that dial down all “non-essential” mobile applications. Their aim is to restrict the accessibility to the apps and games that facilitate nomophobia. In a way, it’s just like replacing tobacco cigarettes with a QuitGo inhaler (a soft-tip inhaler that mimics a cigarette, but without the nicotine). It gradually weans you off the addiction.

As for the biological mechanism behind nomophobia, research is still in its infant stages—but a recent study showed that social media addiction alters the grey matter. The same structural changes highlighted in the study have also been reported in people struggling with drug addiction. (PS: The brain’s grey matter is associated with self-control, memory, hearing, sight, speech, and emotion. I hope you see how all this works into your dependence and fear of losing your mobile phones.)

There are also suggestions that nomophobia could be co-occurring—i.e., associated with underlying mental problems such as loneliness, depression, anxiety, and stress.

Sign That you May be Addicted to Your Smartphone

• Anxiety, stress, or irritation when you can’t access your mobile device
• Relying on your phone as if your life depended on it.
• Panic, or tightness in your chest when you can’t find your smartphone. This can manifest into disorientation or dizziness.
• Agitation when you know you won’t be able to use your mobile phone for a while.
• A feeling of helplessness or dread when you don’t have your smartphone.
• Constantly checking your device every few minutes to confirm it’s still working.
• An urge to always have your device in your sight.
• Frequently delaying or postponing tasks due to your smartphone usage.

Why Should You be Concerned About Being a Mobile Phone Junkie?

Well, there are several reasons why you should care about your smartphone usage habits. Nomophobia has far-reaching ramifications as shown below:

• Increased Risk of Accidents: According to several studies, more and more people are texting while driving—endangering the lives of other road users. But it’s not just the drivers, pedestrians are also culprits.
• Productivity: It goes without saying that phone addiction makes us less productive and inefficient at work or home. While this might sound harmless at first sight, it can spiral out of control.
• Mental Health Problems: Perhaps the most alarming consequence of nomophobia is the increased risk of serious mental issues—comparable to drug addiction. Time magazine even reports that addiction to smartphones can take a toll on your relationships.
• Physical Problems: Prolonged exposure to the blue light emitted by smartphones can disrupt your sleep patterns. Nomophobia can also lead to a short-term stabbing, cramping pain on your neck (aka., text neck)—or poor posture that may be detrimental to your spine.

What Next? How Can We Tackle Nomophobia?

Smartphones are an integral part of the modern-day consumer. For this reason, tossing the smartphone in the bin is not an effective solution. You still need the devices to communicate or run your business. Perhaps the best way forward is understanding when your smartphone usage is a source of concern—and finding a way around the issue.

The good news is that an increasing number of smartphone companies and governments are responding to the issue of phone addiction. For example, France recently passed a law that banned the use of smartphones in schools and another that allowed employees to legally turn a blind eye on any office notifications outside working hours.

You might also have noticed that most phones come with features to monitor and manage usage—e.g., the Digital Wellbeing app from Google. For a more unorthodox solution, a start-up known as Light is offering a dinky smartphone–stripped of everything, except essential tools like calling, alarms, and messaging.  We’ll discuss the Light Phone(s) next week.  For now keep a watch over your smartphone habits and try to be conscious about how often you pick it up and how long you’re engaged with it.

Apple Vs. Samsung – The Ultimate Feud for Global Dominance

Every year—like clockwork—an age-old debate boils over in the smartphone market. It’s a seemingly never-ending battle between two of the world’s largest tech companies; Apple and Samsung.

Whenever the latest Apple or Samsung flagship phone is released, the announcements are typically followed by passionate arguments from either camp. It’s very much like how a geyser erupts after tossing Mentos in a bottle of Coke. Social networks and media outlets are set ablaze with side-by-side comparisons pitting the brands against each other—and rightfully so.

In the mobile phone industry, Samsung’s Galaxy series and Apple’s iPhone stand tall at the pinnacle of the heap—dwarfing competitors. They both offer cutting edge devices that leverage brand loyalty, user experience, and good designs to stay at the top. Although other phone makers such as Huawei and Xiaomi are gaining ground in the industry, the Samsung-Apple duo unequivocally lay claim to the most anticipated high-end smartphones.

But which brand reigns supreme? Would you rather buy the latest Samsung, or Apple smartphone? Read on as we dig into one of the longest-running battles in the tech world—including comparisons of the market share, business models, software/hardware features.

Where it All Began – A History so Dramatic it Sounds Scripted

Samsung and Apple have a turbulent relationship—and it seems to get more agitated with every passing year. But why would the companies single out each other in an industry full of other players? Aside from being the top dogs snarling for the alpha spot, the ‘grudge’ between Samsung and Apple is a personal one. To understand how deep it cuts, let’s rewind to moment the two companies first interreacted. (PS: The narrative below is adapted from Geoffrey Cain’s Samsung Rising as previewed by Forbes)

Part 1: A Blossoming Relationship Begins

It was back in 2005 when 3 Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. executives set their destination for Steve Jobs’ home in Palo Alto. In their possession was “trump card” that would kickstart their journey to conquering the emerging smartphone market.

Their pitch was a tiny NAND flash memory that sat in one of the executive pockets. To Steve Jobs, this was a game-changing solution for the iPod—compared to the less efficient traditional hard disk. As per the script, Jobs made Samsung the sole supplier of the flash memory. What he didn’t know was that Samsung had more ambitious goals beyond just supplying parts to Apple. As Geoffrey Cain puts it, the 2005 deal in Palo Alto gave Samsung “a launchpad from which to eventually get into smartphones, when they came out.”

Part 2: True Intentions are Revealed

Barely 5 years since Steve Jobs met the Samsung executives for the first time, the South Korean multinational released its first smartphone. In the snap of a finger, the supplier was now the challenger. “Samsung was the Apple iPhone chip supplier that dared to compete directly against Apple.”

To Jobs, this felt like one of Shakespeare’s tragic narratives of betrayal and backstabbing. In his owns words, he wanted to “launch thermonuclear war” on Samsung and the Android operating system that powered their devices. But the main issue was not that Samsung had manufactured a smartphone—it had more to do with the design. Samsung had allegedly copied Apple’s design for the iPhone—only with a different operating system.

Part 3: Friends Turn into Sworn Enemies

Whereas Steve Jobs was raring to take the fight to court, Tim Cook (Apple’s supply chain expert at the time) was cautious of the consequences. In particular, Samsung was a crucial supplier to the Cupertino-based company – it seemed the seeds planted by Samsung in 2005 were bearing fruits.

In an attempt to salvage the situation amicably, Cook and Jobs met Jay Lee (currently Samsung’s vice chairman) to present their grievances and propose to license some of the allegedly infringed patents. Samsung’s lawyers were not for the idea—and they instead argued that Apple was the one responsible for copying their patents.

In 2011, Apple filed a barrage of lawsuits in several countries against Samsung—with the former countersuing. The outcome? The once good friends were now sworn enemies. The war had been ignited. (PS: The 2011 lawsuits were only  settled in 2018 after Apple was awarded $539 million as compensation).

Part 4: The War Rages on A Decade Later

The year is 2020, the world is in turmoil after a virus from Wuhan swept across every continent—crippling economies. But even in such a tragic time, Samsung and Apple still make the headlines. The flame ignited in 2011 is still burning.

Type “Samsung Vs…” on any search engine and the first thing that pops up is either “Samsung Vs Apple” or “Samsung Vs iPhone.” The chatter and arguments on social media grow to a fever pitch every time one of the companies announces their next flagship model. We’ve already seen Samsung’s S20 series and people are eagerly awaiting the release of the iPhone 12—to once again bring up the topic of who’s the alpha dog.

So, who leads the pack today?

Market Share – Who Bites the Largest Chunk of the Pie?

According to market data by Statista, Samsung has sat at the “Iron Throne” as the leading smartphone vendor (in shipments) since 2012. This was after the South Korean company dethroned Apple—with the latter taking over after the dramatic fall of Blackberry.

However, the global market share of these companies is highly segmented. For example, Apple had a commanding 58.46% share of the U.S. market as of May 2020, while Samsung settled for 25.11%. In Samsung’s home country (South Korea), the company dominated the smartphone market with a 65.98% claim—compared to Apple’s 23.15% market share.

It’s worth noting that data by Strategy Analytics and Counterpoint Research suggested that Apple briefly nabbed a higher market share (19%) than Samsung (18%) during the 4^th quarter of 2019. The Cupertino-based multinational raked in an impressive $22.2 billion in profits during the same period—making it the company’s most profitable quarter ever.

This massive leap in the market was largely attributed to widespread popularity and the huge sale of the iPhone 11. On the other side of the world in Seoul, Samsung’s profits dropped by 38% during the final quarter of 2019. While this may seem to imply that Apple is clawing its way back to the top (in terms of shipments), it doesn’t tell the whole story.

There are other factors to consider. For example, iPhones are generally released during the final quarter of the year—right around the holiday season—while Samsung’s S-series flagships are often launched around May/June. With this in mind, it’s expected that Apple would be more popular during the turn of the year. Plus, Samsung shipped nearly 295 million devices along the year—compared to Apple’s 193 million.

If the rivalry between Apple and Samsung could be settled by who owns the largest piece of the pie—taking the overall statistics by face value—Samsung would easily come on top. But there’s more to the narrative than the number of products shipped.

Business Model – Different Paths, One Goal

What goes on behind the closed doors of Apple’s or Samsung’s war rooms? What underlying goal drives the respective company’s strategies? And how do the executives, marketers, and other strategists go about enforcing their plans for global domination? From a business model perspective, Samsung and Apple are like opposite sides of a coin—they’re different but ultimately converge at one common outcome.

On the one hand, Apple’s position in the market is largely attributed to a focused and meteoric rise. Although Samsung “moves” more devices, Apple makes significantly more profit per sale. The company thrives on integration, product design, and target marketing—pushing R&D down the list of priorities. Tim Cook and his team tend to monitor market developments, then they swoop in with a radical improvement to wow consumers when the market is ripe for the taking. This has been the underlying strategy since the era of the first iPods—and it’s still seen today. Think about; the multiple rear cameras, the notch, fingerprint sensors—all these iPhone features debuted after other players had done the risky or dirty work.

On the other hand, Samsung has a knack for diversifying its portfolio. Whether it’s medical electronics, smartphones, tablets, cellphone carriers, appliances, TVs, cameras, gaming systems, LED lights, sensors, semi-conductors, or flat panels—Samsung is game! The company’s main competitive strategy revolves around vertical integration.

Software/Hardware Comparison – Latest iPhone Vs. Samsung Flagships

Let’s take the feud down to the streets—away from the courts or board rooms. Which company currently boasts of the best flagship smartphone? For this mega face-off, we decided to compare Apple’s latest smartphone (the iPhone 11), to the Samsung Galaxy S10—i.e., they’re both from 2019. Although the South Korean company has already released the Samsung Galaxy S20 series, Apple is still a few months away from its 2020 release (the iPhone 12).

PS: Keep in mind that we used the base models for the comparison—with the iPhone 11 debuting 6 months after the Samsung Galaxy S10.

On paper, each phone gets a punch or two over the other—but the world we live in is not built on paper. There are tons of factors to consider before taking up arms against either one of the two. What really matters is the overall experience—which is a combination of each phone’s ecosystem, OS, specs, and personal preferences.

Plus, most of us have already claimed our unwavering allegiance to one camp—and telling you otherwise is merely a remedy for another age-old debate. All in all, if you have the financial flex, you can’t go wrong with either of these devices—or their newer models.

Whoever Reigns Supreme, Keep Your Device in Pristine Condition

So, who do you think sits on the “Iron Throne” of the smartphone industry? Samsung or Apple? Whichever company tickles your fancy, one thing’s clear: they both manufacture the most-coveted high-end devices in the market.

As is expected of any valuable device, you need to safeguard your investment—and no, we’re not talking about any drastic measure. Installing a high-quality screen protector could go a long way in giving your iPhone or Samsung smartphone the royal treatment it deserves. Don’t let fanboys in the opposing camp find a reason to criticize your Samsung or Apple device for its scratches or cracks—get a Tech Armor screen protector today!

Google Pixel 5 Rumors, Leaks, and Everything in Between

Fall 2020 is fast approaching—aka., the period when smartphone companies ‘wage war’ against each other to woo consumers before the holiday season. As tension and anticipation grow to a fever pitch, we can’t wait to see what this year has in store for us.

One particular device that cannot afford to disappoint is Google’s Pixel 5. Its immediate predecessors—the Pixel 4 and 4 XL—failed to live up to expectations. This year’s flagship is a chance for retribution. A chance to improve where the Pixel 4 failed and win back the favor of consumers. So, what can we expect from the Google Pixel 5 come Fall?

Google Pixel 5 Release Date

Based on their track record, Google has a remarkably consistent release schedule. The Pixel 3 was released in October and so was the Pixel 4. Drawing on this trend, it’s only logical to assume the Pixel 5 will debut right around the same period. Then again, nothing is running according to schedule nowadays—with the COVID 19 pandemic and all. So before you confidently ink October as ‘Pixel month’, prep yourselves for anything.

Rumored Google Pixel 5 Design

Leaks for the Google Pixel 5 have largely been under wraps with little-to-no concrete information to go by. The most notable rumor on the device’s design comes from a rendering of a prototype shared by Jon Prosser on his YouTube channel. The back of one of the prototypes features a peculiar halved-oval design for the camera module. In another leak highlighted by BGR (originally posted by Slashleaks), the front part still has relatively chunky bezels—supposedly housing the Face Unlock feature.

As for the display, we can only expect an improvement or replication of last year’s model. This includes a 5.7-inch or a 6.3-inch display for the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4L, respectively. The 2019 flagships also featured OLED panes, a 90Hz refresh rate, and HDR support.

Improved Charging and Power Management?

Last year, users were up in arms criticizing the Pixel 4’s uninspiring battery. A battery capacity of 2,800mAh for a leading smartphone with a 90Hz refresh rate drained significantly faster than its peers.  For this reason, Pixel 5’s battery life will be one of the most sought-after features. Battery capacity aside, Google may introduce an interesting power-management feature—i.e. reverse wireless charging. This is according to data unearthed by XDA Developers.

Other Rumored Features

• Foregoing Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865? Google always ships its Pixel smartphones with the latest Android version and Snapdragon chipset. While the former is true, 9to5Google notes that the Pixel 5 may feature a Snapdragon 765G processor instead.
• Camera: As shown in the CAD render by Jon Prosser, Google Pixel 5 may finally get a wide-angle lens—which has become a staple in the latest devices.
• Google might ditch the Soli Sensor: According to a source linked to 9to5Google (via Tom’s Guide), Google may drop its motion-sensing feature. We don’t know how you’d feel about that, but it may translate into a smaller bezel and improved battery life.

Google Pixel 5 Price

Both the Pixel 3 and Pixel 4 debuted at $799 for the base model and $899 for the XL model. With stiff competition from Samsung Galaxy S20 and the upcoming iPhone 12, it’ll be interesting to see the direction Google takes. There are even rumors that the devices could have a starting price of $699.

Whether or not you’re in the Pixel camp, there’s no denying that the devices tend to have an excellent display. With this in mind, you want to keep it free of blemishes and micro-abrasion. This is possible with a high-quality screen protector—fitted to take the abuse on behalf of your device.

A Review of iPhone SE (2020) – The Most Powerful Budget Phone in a Nutshell

The iPhone SE is back! Loaded with enough power to challenge the best smartphones available—but for a fraction of the price. The first iPhone branded with the ‘SE’ name tag took the market by storm back in 2016. And judging by the fuss surrounding the new iPhone SE (2020), it seems well on track to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor. Here’s a breakdown of why the device is regarded as a market-disrupting game-changer.

Blistering Fast A13 Bionic Processor

The highlight of the iPhone SE (2020) is its processor—the A13 Bionic chip. Why is this such a big deal? The A13 is the same processor that powers the iPhone 11 models—and it has a rapport as one of the most powerful smartphone chipsets available today. Including a flagship-worthy processor in a budget phone caught most people by surprise (in a good way). So, whether you’re looking for a new gaming phone or a device capable of handling resource-intensive processes, the iPhone SE (2020) has more than enough power to exceed your expectation.

Pricing

The idea of owning a brand new top-shelf iPhone for $399 sounds comical. If you’re on a budget, few devices—if any—can offer better value for money. Think about it: The iPhone SE (2020) boasts of the same performance (relatively) as the $999 iPhone 11 Pro. But what’s the catch? Apple must make profits by cutting down on costs somewhere, right?

Sure, the latest iPhone SE’s chipset is impressive or even too good for its price range—but that’s not the whole picture. Some features can only be quantified by the user. For example, how do you feel about shorter battery life? What about Bezels? Do you care about a telephoto, ultrawide rear camera, or night mode? If these factors are deal-breakers to you, then iPhone SE does not provide value for money (to you at least).

iPhone SE (2020) Design and Display Specs – Old is Gold (*Almost)

How do you create a budget phone? To most manufacturers, this means dialing down on the performance or cameras—but not Apple! As evidenced by the iPhone SE, the company’s solution to cutting costs is packing top-of-the-range internal components in the body of an older model. It’s like fitting the 760-horsepower engine of Ford Mustang Shelby in a Toyota Prius.

The screen’s design borrows from the iPhone 8, which in turn borrowed from the iPhone 7 and iPhone 6—only that this time it’s been spruced up. In fact, screen protectors used on the iPhone 6/7/8 are also compatible with the new iPhone SE. It features a flat 4.7-inch Retina display (1334×750 pixels) with HDR adjustments, True Tone enhancements, and wide color gamut support.

How Good is the iPhone SE (2020) Camera and Battery?

Apple’s iPhone SE comes with a single 12MP rear camera, deviating from the dual and triple camera in the iPhone 11. It features phase-detection autofocus, optical stabilization, Smart HDR, and portrait mode. The front-facing camera is fitted with a 7MP unit that supports Retina flash.

As for the battery, a 1,821mAh (same as the iPhone 8’s) leaves a lot to be desired—but you also have to factor in Apple’s device optimization prowess. It comes with a disappointing 5W charger, though you can use any USB-PD charger you have lying around.

A Hit or Miss?

The iPhone SE (2020) is a remarkable device. If you’re strapped for cash, investing in the smartphone is a no-brainer. Well, as long as you can live with the bezels. But if bezels make you queasy, you can add another $200 for the iPhone XR or $300 for the iPhone 11. And if you already own an iPhone 6, 7, or 8, the iPhone SE (2020) is largely the same—but on ‘steroids.’ All factors considered; we believe the latest iPhone SE is a HIT! It’s a device that will serve you diligently for the next couple of years. Well, as long as you protect it with Tech Armor’s screen protection.

The iPhone 12 Rumors Are Heating Up – Here’s What We Know…So Far

A revamped design, a 3D depth-sensing rear camera sensor, 4 models, 5G connectivity, a next-gen A14 Bionic chip, a 120Hz refresh rate—the upcoming iPhone 12 appears loaded with a slew of new and exciting features. It promises to be one of the most innovative smartphones released by the Cupertino-based tech giant in recent years.

While we’re still a couple of months from the official launch of the iPhone 12, we already have a good idea of what to expect when Tim Cook (Apple’s CEO) takes to the stage. As leaks and rumors continue to pour in, here’s everything we know so far.

ONE Model, FOUR Times the Joy!

Ready to be spoiled by choice? According to one of the most enduring rumors, Apple is set to surprise users with not 3 (as it did with the iPhone 11 series in 2019), but 4 models of the iPhone 12 come fall 2020. In fact, hints that Apple would expand its line of phones have been around since late last year. It’s hard to imagine there was a time when Apple only released a single flagship annually.

In December 2019, Ming Chi Kuo—an Apple analyst with a respectable track record—predicted that 2020 would see 5 iPhones (the other being the recently released iPhone SE 2020). Ming Chi Kuo’s information was later confirmed by Jon Prosser – aka., the guy who accurately leaked the release of the new MacBook Air, iPad Pro, and iPhone SE 2020, right down to the date. As highlighted by Ross Young from Display Supply Chain, the lineup includes:

• iPhone 12: 5.4-inch OLED display (2340×1080) and dual rear lenses
• iPhone 12 Max: 6.1-inch OLED panel (2532×1170) and dual rear lenses
• iPhone 12 Pro: 6.1-inch OLED panel (2532×1170) with support for 10-bit color and three rear cameras plus a LiDAR sensor. It could also feature a 120 Hz refresh rate.
• iPhone 12 Pro Max: Similar to the iPhone 12 Pro—but with a bigger 6.7-inch OLED panel (2778×1824)

Let’s Talk Display!

As highlighted earlier, we expect 3 screen size variations, all featuring OLED displays. What’s more, rumors from serial leaker Ice Universe and DigiTimes suggest that the upcoming iPhone flagship might boast of a welcome display improvement – a switchable 60Hz and 120Hz refresh rate. This will allow for a smoother scrolling experience as seen on the iPad Pro and most iPhone competitors.

Information is also trickling in that all variants of the iPhone 12 could feature Samsung’s Y-OCTA integrated touch. This is according to Economic Daily News and Barclays analysts through MacRumors. The under-display ultrasonic display sensor would provide better security and convenience to iPhone users.

But as seen in the latest Samsung smartphones, ultrasonic fingerprint sensors are a major challenge for conventional screen protectors—which is why you should not settle for ‘conventional’. Instead, safeguard your premium device with Tech Armor’s top-of-the-range screen protectors.

iPhone 12 Design Leaked?

Anticipating buyers expect a notable cosmetic change every year to freshen up their iPhone game. This year, speculations point towards a design that is both nostalgic and modern. Remember the iconic flat metal-edge body of the iPhone 5? Well, Bloomberg reports that we could be seeing a come-back of this design—but with a modern twist.

Say goodbye to the curved design that has characterized the series since 2017, and hello a boxy design—with an aluminum/stainless steel frame and flat glass panels. Reliable leaks also claim that the devices with be impressively compact, including a smaller notch. We’re interested to see how consumers respond to this development.

iPhone 12 Camera Features

iPhones never skimp on camera quality! This has been the case for as long as iPhones existed—and Apple doesn’t plan to change the narrative anytime soon. So, what’s new with iPhone 12 camera setup and features?

Fast Company claims that the LiDAR time-of-flight sensor used on the front camera for Face ID could also feature on the rear camera. The claim was later confirmed by 9 to 5 Mac after they combed through a beta version of the iPhone 12’s iOS 14. This technology uses pulsed lasers to better measure the distance of an object from the sensor. Its possible applications are wide—from improving AR features to snaping higher-quality images.

Mobile photography aficionados should also be excited over the possibility of a new sensor-shift image stabilization technology. This would allow the camera to detect the phone’s movement and counter it using small electrical actuators. The result? Quality shots even in the shakiest of hands.

What Else Can We Expect from the iPhone 12?

• A14 Bionic Chip: Brace yourselves for blazing speeds and beastly processing power—rivaling not just other smartphones, but also PC laptops. As reported by Tom’s Guide, iPhone 12 benchmarks by released by GizChina suggest that the new A14 processor is set to obliterate every other smartphone on the planet.
• 5G Connectivity: According to Nikkei, the entire iPhone 12 lineup with feature—a long overdue—5G connectivity. Unfortunately, rumors by Jon Prosser and DigiTimes claim that the iPhone 12 (5.4-inch) and iPhone 12 Max (6.1-inch) will not ship with the faster mmWave 5G technology.
• USB-C: iPhone users are accustomed to the proprietary Lighting port. But if the latest iPad Pro and virtually every other smartphone manufacturer are anything to go by, we might be seeing a USB-C port on the iPhone sooner than later—or not! There’s word on a portless device, but take it with a grain of salt. As for now, leaked reports suggest that the iPhone 12 will not feature a USB-C.
• Pricing: According to a major leak (as reported by CNET) the iPhone 12 could literally be cheaper by the dozen (see what we did there?). The source claims that you might be able to land a brand-new iPhone 12 for a low starting price of $649.

When is the iPhone 12 Release Date?

Hankering to get your hands on one of the most anticipated devices of 2020? Well, so are we—plus millions of Apple fanboys around the world gleaming with excitement. If you’ve marked your calendar for September—as per the norm with other iPhone releases—you might have to hold your horses a little longer (*sigh).

Emerging reports are increasingly pointing towards a delayed-release. Both the Wall Street Journal and quotes by Broadcom’s CEO (via Bloomberg) claim that the iPhone 12 release date may be pushed to October—rather than September. This is largely due to delays in the production cycle as a consequence of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Give Your iPhone the Love it Deserves—Protect it With Tech Armor

Apple’s iPhones are easily one of the most sought-after devices in the market. Although the iPhone 12 is touted to be more affordable at $649, repairing an iPhone tends to be an expensive task. With this in mind, steer clear of avoidable damage to your device with the help of Tech Armor screen protectors. This is especially important in light of reports calling the iPhone 12 predecessor’s screen into question. According to 7News Australia—and even a thread on Apple’s official forum—the iPhone 11 gets scratched far too easily. Don’t wait to find out if your iPhone 12 will have the same issue, get protected as soon as you buy the device.