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Welcome to our pick for the best business virtual reality (and augmented reality) headsets of 2019. There are loads of reasons why you'd want to invest in a business virtual reality headset. They can be used by architects to step inside their blueprints, or to show potential customers what your product will look like in the real world. They can also revolutionise meetings between co-workers in different locations, and help design products in a 3D space. With the best business virtual reality headsets, the only limit (apart from cost and hardware) is your imagination. Speaking of cost and hardware, while some enterprise-level virtual reality headsets remain expensive - and require powerful hardware to run - there are a growing number of affordable VR and AR headsets that are ideal for business use. Microsoft's Windows Mixed Reality platform has brought some brilliant and affordable headsets from a variety of manufacturers, including HP and Dell, and their hardware requirements are pretty restrained, so don't worry about having to splash out on a cutting-edge powerful PC. In this guide we've listed the best business VR headsets in 2019 which balance performance, comfort and affordability, and we've included a range of headsets to suit all budgets and use cases. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eaV3kfiKqe8HZw8guGnRxS.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZmBjfXNkcH5knCV49u2qcU.jpg If you want the very best VR experience for your business, then the HTC Vive Pro is currently our pick for the best business VR headset. It comes with a resolution of 2880 x 1600, offering a 78% increase in dots per inch than the standard HTC Vive. This leads to astounding image quality, so if realistic graphics are important, this headset is worth considering. It also includes built-in headphones and new nose guards that do a better job of blocking out light than the HTC Vive. Setup is a bit complicated, however, and you need to install lighthouses (small boxes) around the office to track the HTC Vive Pro. It's also one of the most expensive headsets in this guide. Read the full review: HTC Vive Pro http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qLi4SkLLehi4pJRVzjtKok.jpg If you need to use VR on the road - for example visiting customers and clients at their offices - then you don't want to be lugging around a VR-capable PC. That's why the Oculus Quest is such a great headset. There are no wires and no pricey additional equipment requirements. The Quest delivers six degrees of freedom (6DOF) tracking thanks to its two motion controllers, which look like the older Oculus Touch with some minor design tweaks, as well as sensors located on the sides of the headset. It's compact enough to carry around, and comfortable to wear. The Quest has an OLED display panel with 1440 x 1600 per eye resolution. Images on the screen look clear and colorful, and it's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor. Read the full review: Oculus Quest http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EaWWFHpedX6tPF7UifajgN.jpg As we mentioned at the beginning of this guide, Windows Mixed Reality headsets offer a brilliant VR experience for businesses, and the Samsung HMD Odyssey is currently the best WMR headset yet. While not exactly on par with the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive in terms of sheer graphics rendering, it comes very close, with excellent build quality and performance. The screens pop with a resolution of 1,440 x 1,600 pixels per side and a refresh rate of between 90 to 60Hz. This is a higher resolution that most other Windows Mixed Reality Headsets, and puts it in the same league as the HTC Vive Pro, though less pricey. It is the most expensive WMR headset, however, at $499 (about £377, AU$635). But, it’s the only one to include built-in headphones with spatial audio. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fWa497NFpiFk6kHeCPKvGb.jpg If the HTC Vive Pro (listed above) is too expensive for your budget, then the original HTC Vive is a more affordable (but still expensive) choice. It features room-scale tracking that lets you to walk around a space that's 4.5 x 4.5m big, which adds immersion to anyone using it – though of course you'll need plenty of space to make use of it. The headset features two 1080p screens, which is fine for most use cases, though the HTC Vive Pro comes with a 78% increase in dots per inch, which offers a much sharper screen in addition to built-in audio, which the original Vive lacks. However, despite not being the latest and greatest Vive, the fact that it has seen some decent price drops makes this one of the best business VR headsets around. Read the full review: HTC Vive http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eaV3kfiKqe8HZw8guGnRxS.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SLxFSrK4v3o5zttNWoX8No.jpg The Oculus Rift is the other big name in PC VR – and while it's primarily gaming focussed for now, like its rival the HTC Vive, it is also one of the best business VR headsets. With Facebook buying Oculus for $2 billion a few years ago, this headset now has a far wider remit than just virtual reality games. It's also seen some decent upgrades over the years thanks to the inclusion of the Touch controllers (which we'd argue are slightly superior to the Vive's), and a couple of key price drops. It can also now do room-scale tracking, though not quite as well as the HTC Vive does it, and it's more affordable as well. Read the full review: Oculus Rift http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eaV3kfiKqe8HZw8guGnRxS.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Sk8B6cP9BqMeonQemBsnoG.jpg Samsung Gear VR is the best mobile virtual reality headset, and now that it has a motion controller, it's better than ever. In addition to the new controller, the updated Gear VR is lighter and more streamlined, and features a USB-C connector that hooks directly to a Samsung Galaxy phone. You don't need to bring a PC or laptop with you to power the Samsung Gear VR, which makes it brilliant for using when out on the road. You do need a Samsung smartphone, however, such as theGalaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus, as well as the Galaxy S10 and Galaxy S10 Plus. The included motion controller is similar to the HTC Vive controller design, with a touchpad and trigger button. If you have a Samsung smartphone and want to use VR for your business, this is a great choice. Read the full review: Samsung Gear VR http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eaV3kfiKqe8HZw8guGnRxS.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Ukt9bdTExM6c5dMF3RxWe3.jpg Google Daydream View is another great mobile virtual reality headset, and while it's not quite as good as the Samsung Gear VR above, it's more flexible, as it works with most Android smartphones – not just Samsung ones. One of the best things about this VR headset is its price; it's less than $100 / £100, and a recent discount has made it even cheaper, at least for the time being. It's also an incredibly easy headset to use – all you need to do is install an app on your phone, and then place your phone inside the headset. Once done, you can use the included controller to move about virtual reality spaces. You won't get the deeply immersive worlds of a higher-end, PC-powered VR headset with the Google Daydream View, but you will get a device that's nicely designed, works with plenty of smartphones, can easily be carried around and is relatively cheap. Read the full review: Google Daydream View (2017) HTC Vive Pro vs HTC Vive: should you upgrade to the high-end headset?http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/-pUztqxRPw4
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Full-frame cameras are aimed at photographers who want the best image quality possible without resorting to medium format models. So what's the best full-frame camera right now? It used to be a fairly easy decision to make, as there were only full-frame DSLRs made by two manufacturers – and you were lucky if you could afford them. Slowly other brands joined, and full-frame cameras got cheaper and cheaper. Full-frame sensors also started finding themselves inside the odd compact camera too, before Sony and Leica started to bring full-frame mirrorless models to the market. Best camera 2019: 10 of the best cameras you can buy right nowToday, those manufacturers are joined by the likes of Canon, Nikon and Panasonic in the mirrorless camp, and all are now racing to get their systems populated with tempting camera bodies and high-performing lens options to match. There's no doubt that full-frame photography is not only more exciting than ever, but more accessible too. So what makes a full-frame camera so special? Most entry-level and mid-price DSLR and mirrorless cameras sport an APS-C sized sensor, with the physical dimensions of these measuring around 23.6 x 15.7mm. A full-frame sensor, on the other hand, has larger dimensions of around 36 x 24mm. That's the same size as a frame of 35mm film, hence the name 'full-frame', and is around 2.5x larger than an APS-C sized sensor. This allows for larger photosites on the sensor, which deliver better light-gathering capabilities, which in turn means better image quality – especially at higher sensitivities. Full-frame DSLRs used to be the preserve of professional photographers, but as the costs have dropped and lower-cost models have started to appear, many serious amateurs and enthusiasts can now enjoy the benefits of full-frame photography, whether it's in DSLR or mirrorless form. We reckon the best full-frame camera right now is the Nikon Z6, thanks to its blend of excellent performance, lightweight body, masses of features and low price. To get an idea of what kind of DSLR or mirrorless camera you can get at different price points, try our Best DSLR and Best mirrorless camera buying guides. Otherwise, here's our pick of the best full-frame cameras, both DSLR and mirrorless, you can buy right now. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nRAKMSkqn2rTSShmXyGj7D.jpg Our top ten list of best full-frame camera starts just below, but we wanted to highlight a camera that, while, not the the latest and greatest, is still a great buy. Sony's Alpha A7 II has since been replaced by the A7 III (which is in our top ten below), but it's a great option if you're on a bit more of a budget, or you want to spend more money on lenses. Still available new (as is the even more affordable Alpha A7), the A7 II includes a great 24.2MP full-frame sensor, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a very capable AF system. Handling isn't quite as refined as the newer Mark III version, but for the incredibly tempting price, this can be overlooked. You'll be hard pressed to find a better full-frame camera for your money right now. Read our in-depth Sony Alpha A7 II reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg Best full-frame cameras in 2019http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HdpN4C6KgWBHqrbRkNVUdX.jpg Nikon's Z6 was the first of two cameras in Nikon's Z system, and while it's no longer the newest model here, it retains its spot at the top of our best full-frame mirrorless camera chart. It's our pick thanks to a brilliant blend of features, performance, handling and price. The 24.5MP sensor delivers beautiful results with great color reproduction and fine detail, while the 273-point AF system works very well and has excellent frame coverage. There's also an impressive 12fps burst shooting mode, sensibly laid-out controls and a lovely large and bright electronic viewfinder. Existing Nikon user? The FTZ adapter means you'll be able to use your existing F mount lenses too (though check compatibility for older lenses). All this makes the Z6 a brilliant choice for the enthusiast photographer or pro photographer looking for a second body. We can't wait to see where this system goes from here. Read our in-depth Nikon Z6 reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YpwJH8efdThAcByMRhZM95.jpg The Alpha A7 III might be the entry-level full-frame camera in Sony's mirrorless range, but it's no poor relation. This is a brilliant camera for both enthusiasts and professionals, thanks in large part to the excellent 24.2MP full-frame sensor. The advanced 693-point AF has been borrowed from the flagship Alpha A9, while the 10fps burst shooting option should mean you'll never miss another shot. It can also shoot uncropped 4K video and features a very good 5-axis image stabilization system, and also packs a high-resolution electronic viewfinder. Until recently, this has been our pick of the 'entry-level' mirrorless cameras, but it's just been pipped by the Nikon Z6. Still, as a rare winner of a full five stars in our recent review (below), it's just as worthy of consideration if you're not tied to any particular system right now. Read our in-depth Sony Alpha A7 III reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/pE4uTiyuWv6bsbyQUdfQqF.jpg Nikon's first full-frame mirrorless camera along with the Z6, the Z7 is triumph. As a first-generation camera we should expect the odd hiccup, but the Z7 has been crafted with consideration and it behaves far better than we would expect. A solid sensor, combined with effective image stabilization, together with a beautiful EVF, excellent handling, very competent AF performance and great response throughout form the bones of what make this camera such a pleasure to use. The fact that Nikon allows you to use F-mount lenses through the FTZ adapter also makes the journey from DSLR to mirrorless relatively painless if you've already built up a collection of lenses. Read our in-depth Nikon Z7 reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ptTRnri23E7MTGN7igXtmb.jpg The D850 may have had some of its thunder stolen by the similar Z7 (above) but it retains a lot of appeal. It's one of the most advanced DSLRs we've ever tested, with the winning combination of a 45MP full-frame sensor and 7fps burst shooting at its heart, and has a wonderful 153-point AF system that makes light work of keeping up with moving subjects. Videos are recorded in 4K quality and are top notch, while build and design are as close to perfect as it gets right now. Its weight and size make the Z7 a little more desirable for most uses, but if you're shooting sports or other moving subjects and plan on getting the most out of that focusing system, it's a cracking option. Read our in-depth Nikon D850 reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6mnkbVBFVj2GYYTTABuqkF.jpg Like the look of the A7 III but want more pixels? Then the 42.2MP Alpha A7R III is the answer. Not only do you get twice the number of pixels, but Sony has managed to keep the burst rate at 10fps. And while the 399-point AF system isn't quite as advanced at the 693-point system used in the Alpha A9 and A7 III, it's still performs brilliantly - especially with the camera's EyeAF mode that locks onto your subject's eye. Like the Nikon D850 (above), the Alpha A7R III means you no longer have to sacrifice performance for resolution or vice versa, while it's versatility means it's just at home perched on a mountain as it is in a studio or out shooting action. Read our in-depth Sony Alpha A7R III reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/W3zfBPVBRvLJVh6mHgDRUh.jpg The EOS 5D Mark IV pretty much tweaks and improves everything the Mark III offered. This includes a brilliant 30.4MP sensor that delivers pin-sharp results, together with an advanced and sophisticated 61-point AF system, a pro-spec performance, 4K video and some very polished handling. We have a few reservations, such as the crop factor and inefficient Motion JPEG option when shooting 4K videos, while the 30MP sensor resolution and 7fps burst rate aren't as competitive at this price point as they used to be when the camera was first launched. Still, if you're a Canon user looking for the very best DSLR for a wide range of purposes, this is still very much it. Read our in-depth Canon EOS 5D Mark IV reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2amTeNbLHjD8kMj7f96MfZ.jpg Canon's first full-frame mirrorless camera, the EOS R, delighted in some ways and frustrated in others, but the EOS RP made a much more positive impression. While technically a more junior model and not as fully featured, its much smaller and lighter body, together with a far nicer price, means that it's far more accessible for those who were hoping to make the jump to mirrorless but didn't want to stretch all the way to the EOS R. Without only around 4MP difference between the two you're not really sacrificing much in terms of sensor resolution, while the responsive touchscreen, fast autofocus and deep buffer makes it a pleasure to use in all kinds of situations. Let's hope Canon fills out the lens range with some smaller and more affordable options, as most current options aren't quite the most suitable partners. Read our in-depth Canon EOS RP reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4dea51f55c0f8384987e2cd4d33c2c2f.jpg By the standard of today's DSLRs and mirrorless camera, the D750 is somewhat dated. It employs Nikon's older (but respected) 51-point AF system, for example, and it can't capture 4K video, only Full HD clips to 60p. It doesn't even have a touchscreen, but it's still well worth its place on this list thanks to its excellent build, great handling, solid 24.3MP sensor and affordable price. If you don't need the tricks of modern DSLRs but you just want something reliable that produces excellent images in good light and bad, the D750 is well worth considering – particularly at this price. Read our in-depth Nikon D750 reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gT6e4hFcGiuBMxpvCZqmpf.jpg The S1R offers some very impressive tech in a supremely rugged body. The 5.7million-dot viewfinder is, without question, the most impressive on the market right now, while stellar video quality, great image stabilisation and a huge buffer all put a big smile on our face too. The 47.3MP sensor has the highest number of pixels on any full-frame mirrorless camera too, but its main party trick is the ability to output 187MP images. Quite how often you'll need to print your images to the size of a small country is another matter, but this clearly gives you massive scope for extreme cropping, enlargements to all sizes and homing in on the smaller details in the scene. We have some reservations with the autofocus system, and it's a little on the beefy side too, but for its combination of build, features and overall execution, the S1R scores many points. Read our in-depth Panasonic S1R reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/x6a9KSnvLiFgwihQYRQr28.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Z29rqw6tRMCYZ5fSrqPSuB.jpg Canon certainly made some significant improvements over the now-reitred EOS 6D here, packing in a fresh sensor, a faster processor, a much more credible AF system and a stronger burst rate. It's a much more well-rounded and better specified camera than the EOS 6D, but it's not without its issues, such as the lack of 4K video and the fact that the AF system only covers a small proportion of the frame. These niggles dull what is otherwise a very nice full-frame DSLR that's a pleasure to shoot with. It will certainly please Canon users looking to make the move into full-frame photography, but others might be better served elsewhere. Read our in-depth Canon EOS 6D Mark II reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg Also consider...Nothing from the above take your fancy? There are a couple of other options that you may want to look at. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AApUkkTYfhgA6NxjvrEkdT.jpg The A9 may now be two years old, but for sports and action shooters it's still pretty much the best option around. Part of that is down to the core specs, which include a superb 693-point AF system, a huge buffer, oversampled 4K video recording and 20fps burst shooting with no viewfinder blackout. But another reason is because of how Sony has continued to support it throughout its lifetime, recently blessing it with firmware that radically improves the stickiness of the autofocus system. The camera is capable of not just keeping an excellent lock on subjects as they move around, but also maintaining this as obstacles present themselves, and that huge buffer lets you keep shooting for extended periods of time. It's not cheap, but if you're shooting action, you won't find a better mirrorless body right now. Read our in-depth Sony A9 reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/x6a9KSnvLiFgwihQYRQr28.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7eF4tJK8XfcrPgoc3otbqC.jpg Now over three years old, but the D5 is still Nikon's flagship DSLR and a formidable performer when it comes to capturing action. The 20.8MP sensor might seem a bit stingy, but it means the D5 can shoot at 12fps continuous shooting, while the extended ISO range of ISO 3,280,000 has never been seen before in a camera. That's even before we get to the autofocus system; with a coverage of 173 AF points (99 of which are cross-type), the sophistication and speed of the AF is staggering. The ability to shoot 4K video is restricted to three minutes, however, but that aside the D5 is a phenomenal camera that's used by professionals the world over. Read our in-depth Nikon D5 reviewhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg Not sure whether to buy a DSLR or mirrorless camera? Check out our guide video below. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg Best cameraBest entry-level DSLRBest DSLRBest mirrorless cameraBest 4K cameraBest compact cameraWhat camera should I buy?Mirrorless vs DSLR: 10 key differencesCamera rumorshttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oyYK5qmxghsTkZPPmJ3DbK.jpg http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/f7GcqG2_qVI
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After four months of its announcement, the new line of wearable from Samsung has made it to the Indian market. The company has finally launched the Galaxy Watch Active, Galaxy Fit and Galaxy Fit E in the Indian market. The new wearables, as the name suggests, are fitness trackers with different features on offer at different price points. The Watch Active is a smartwatch, while the other two are fitness bands that do not offer as much as the Active. The Galaxy Watch Active is a refined and improved version of Samsung's standard smartwatch in a smaller package. Because it is a lot cheaper, the watch also trims some of the top-end features of its existing smartwatch. That's because the Watch Active is made for dynamic usage without adding the bulk to your wrist. It can be worn while working out and also while sleeping. The Galaxy Watch Active has a round dial, but it misses the beloved rotating bezel, which makes it lighter and slimmer. The watch has a 1.1-inch Super AMOLED (360x360) display with Gorilla Glass protection, it measures 39.5 x 39.5 x 10.5mm and weighs 25 grams without the straps. Samsung's Exynos 9110 chipset runs at its heart and it comes with One UI 1.0 on based on Tizen OS. It comes with 0.75GB RAM and 4GB of internal storage. Some of its many features include exercise, sleep, stress and health tracking, and is also the company's first wearable to track blood pressure. The Galaxy Watch Active is IP68 + 5ATM rated for water resistance up to 50 meters. Samsung's ultra-affordable wearables for fitness freaksThe Gear Fit has remarkably similar spec to the Fitbit Inspire HR with a waterproof design, automatic fitness tracking and some notifications. The Gear Fit E, however, is far less feature packed missing out on a lot of that functionality, but it does still come with a heart rate monitor and a swimproof design that can tackle a variety of exercises. The Galaxy Fit has a 0.95-inch AMOLED (120X240) full colour display. It measures 45.1mm in height, 18.3mm in width and weighs 23 grams. The Galaxy Fit offers with 2MB RAM and 32MB storage. What's the cost?The Galaxy Watch Active is priced at Rs 19,999 and will be available offline via Samsung SmartCafe outlets and partner retail stores, and online via Samsung Shop and Amazon India. The Galaxy Fit and Galaxy Fit e are priced at Rs 9,990 and Rs 2,590, respectively, and will also be available through similar offline channels. In addition to the Samsung online store, the Galaxy Fit and Galaxy Fit e will also be on sale on Flipkart and Myntra. Everything you need to know about the Amazon Prime Day 2019http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/GoFo1ctCvyc
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5G delivers super-fast connectivity that can be used for many everyday tasks and it’s the area where driverless cars are being developed that really fires up the imagination. Autonomous vehicles are currently being tested that offer distinct possibilities for the future, but will they become a part of everyday reality? Everybody is getting very excited about the rollout of 5G. Faster connectivity and a wider reach of services will hopefully mean we all get a better online experience. However, 5G isn't just about speedier web browsing, quicker movie-streaming, lightning-fast gaming and improved communications at home, at work or on the move. In fact, 5G could be about to play a big part in the way we get from A to B, particularly when it comes to autonomous vehicles. Of course, driverless vehicles are already with us, and many can operate on their own. However, the downside is that there still needs to be a real person behind the wheel just in case. Legislation and, perhaps, a little nervousness dictates this, but will human intervention using the ‘just in case’ scenario be needed at all in the future? http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7JadYnzacbQ4aDh5QQaLuH.jpg Image credit: Millbrook Proving Ground A complicated processTimes have changed and so has the technology being used to provide a stronger backbone for supporting driverless cars. While 4G seemed like a big deal at the time it was never going to be much use in the word of vehicle autonomy. 5G on the other hand, is offering car manufacturers an array of options for the evolving transport marketplace when it comes to connected and autonomous vehicles, or CAVs. It’s the rapid-fire connectivity of 5G that could lie at the heart of CAV development, although this will also be dependent on infrastructure in order to join up the dots. Autonomous vehicles, by their very nature, are heavily reliant on data and lots of it. This means that having driverless cars on our roads isn’t going to happen overnight. It’s a complicated matter, but the advent of 5G is certainly going to help speed up progress. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ut5NStyyhyRQcgYpTM7cKV.jpg Image credit: Millbrook Proving Ground Central to progress is, naturally, research and development. There are car manufacturers doing their own thing, and there are independent companies who are working on their solutions. There’s even a good degree of collaboration between manufacturers and the standalone businesses that can see the vast potential of 5G when used in the context of CAVs. Millbrook Proving Ground in rural Bedfordshire, England, is a great example of how the R&D is driving things forward. With its private but comprehensive testing facilities the location has long been an automotive testing hotspot where autonomous vehicles can be put through their paces in public road-like conditions, but in safety too. Currently the location is home to AutoAir, a 5G testing environment and, as mentioned above, it’s the direct result of collaboration. In this instance it’s been a team effort from the likes of McClaren Applied Technologies and the University of Surrey along with tech input from the likes of ARM, Real Wireless, Quortus Limited, Blue Wireless and Dense Air Limited. Alongside the owners of Millbrook, who’ve obviously got prime facilities to use as a testbed for all this research, it’s easy to see just how much effort is going to be needed to make 5G work as it could and should with CAVs. That said, a lot of the research is focused on urban areas, but if autonomous vehicles are going to have universal appeal then perhaps it’s not too much to expect driverless cars to eventually venture into rural areas also. The 5G Rural Integrated Testbed (5GRIT) is a partnership between SMEs and universities that is looking into creating better 5G infrastructure in rural locales, so it’s a distinct possibility. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/947QeDudWgJpqySfJdgrAP.jpg Image credit: Millbrook Proving Ground Faster response timesIn the case of AutoAir, the organization has set up a complex 5G network that uses an array of technical components in order to create the ideal testing environment. There are multiple masts and even more base stations that allow technicians to produce all manner of different scenarios, such as maintaining a 1Gbps connection at speeds right up to 160mph. Adding to the potential of this speedy connectivity is the way the system can utilize vehicle-to-vehicle or V2V applications. This is further boosted by cellular vehicle to everything (C-V2X) applications. The latter could be the magic ingredient in the development of 5G in autonomous vehicles because it helps join up all those dots we mentioned earlier. Not only will it be able to see what your vehicle is doing, it will also be able to check on other traffic, cyclists, pedestrians and update you on what the wider infrastructure around you is doing. The growing prevalence of Internet of Things devices will also mean that our infrastructure will improve to work in tandem with the data being driven to and from autonomous vehicles. This could actually be the way to even out traffic flow and melt away jams or bottlenecks. Connected traffic lights, for example, could talk to vehicles and vice versa. Similarly, the same could happen with street lights, road signs and, indeed, anything else that vehicles and their passengers need to be in touch with during that journey from A to B. With demand for vehicles growing and only so many stretches of tarmac to go around, city planners and car owners alike will have to make compromises. But, thanks to 5G, the level of compromise might not be quite as bad as some are making out. The low latency of 5G means that the responsiveness will be much more instantaneous, which autonomous cars will need to have in order to interpret sudden changes in road conditions and also where hazards occur. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XaHVmWsepVrihLHQHuTp5W.jpg Image credit: Nissan Invisible-to-VisibleOne interesting example of how 5G could take this a step further is Nissan and its Invisible-to-Visible innovation. The company unveiled its futuristic vision at CES 2019 and the concept offers up some fascinating possibilities. Using fast connectivity and augmented reality an in-car system will be able to monitor you and your surroundings to help flag up things you might be interested in, such as points of interest, places to eat and so on. However, the really interesting thing about I2V will be its ability to see around corners, and thereby alert you to any potential hazards such as obstacles in the road, passengers obscured by vehicles and so forth. Naturally, in order to do this effectively cars will need the sort of connectivity speeds that can ping lots of data backwards and forwards instantly. It’s going to be just the job for 5G in other words. Similarly, Ford is working with Vodafone on connected vehicle technology that uses the power of 5G to warn other cars when emergency vehicles are approaching. Combining this with autonomous driving underlines just how excited we should be getting about the future and the potential safety benefits, not only for ourselves but for everyone else on the road. The data-driven experience isn’t just pie-in-the-sky fantasy either and forms part of a €15 million (around $16.8 million / £13.3 million) trial of connected car technologies and automated driving currently underway in Germany. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3BLgBGKTWqbMyZzgQcT39D.jpg Image credit: Ford Which brings us back to the speed and volume of data that is subsequently produced during all this. There’s lots of it being accumulated. Testing at Millbrook is routinely producing up to and sometimes over 4TB a day and, thanks to 5G’s capacity for handling such a high amount of information, the processing of data is much more rapid than it could have ever been before. Plus, due to the proliferation of smaller antennas that are dotted around the test facility, the coverage and efficiency is boosted while not having an unduly negative effect of the surrounding geography. Previously, larger masts would have been needed, while the new option is to have lots of masts, but much smaller and more efficient variants on the theme. So progress is being made – but it’s not quite there yet. Will we see autonomous vehicles controlled using the power of 5G in the very near future? Perhaps not, but as the teams at Millbrook and other test facilities around the globe are finding out, it will happen. It’s just a matter of time. 5G Uncovered, in association with Samsung, brings you everything you need to know about the next wave of connectivity - not just how fast it's going to be, but in just how many ways it's going to change your life. Our 5G Uncovered hub is carefully curated to show everything there is to know about the next generation of connection. Mapping the world: solving one of the biggest problems facing autonomous carshttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/g4wDiBPCV9o
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Best Speakers buying guide: Welcome to TechRadar's round-up of the best wireless, connected speakers and speaker systems in 2019. Everyone's listening tastes are different. You might be looking for big, bold, floor-standing speaker models that can rattle the walls with your thumping dance tracks or just a portable speaker that'll work whenever or wherever you take it for podcasts, pop music and everything else while you're on-the-move. Whatever you need a new sound system for, you've come to the right place - or you can get more granular with something like our round up of the best Bluetooth speakers. UPDATE: If you're in the market for a new wireless speaker, don't forget Amazon Prime Day 2019 is coming up very soon. The official Amazon Prime Day 2019 dates have been announced, and just as we'd suspected, it's happening bang in the middle of July, beginning July 15 and ending the next day on July 16. This speaker round-up covers all of the best audio tech in all the different shapes and sizes you'd ever imagine – at least for the next few weeks until we update the list with our newest and latest favorites. Of course it's not just like you have big floor-standing systems and portable ones to choose from, between those two ends of the sound spectrum also lies wireless speakers, which are powerful chambers of sound that don't require a cable to setup. That means if you're not in the mood to string wires, this is the way to go. Ideally, the speaker you choose for your home will have been made with a number of built-in amps and DACs and then custom-tuned to replicate music as close to the source as possible. On top of pristine audio playback, audiophiles (or wannabe audiophiles) should also be looking for speakers that pack in a whole host of features, such as smart assistant support, Spotify Connect and a built-in batter, all of which will help your speaker last you until the next big innovation in audio that we're hoping will come a few years down the road. So here you have it, this is our list of the 10 best wireless speakers, ranked by their price-to-performance ratio. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/acgUKcEQ62B9mKUGHCVXQD.jpg Image credit: Sonos If you're in the market for a cleanly designed, exceptional sounding connected speaker, you'll find none better than the Sonos One. Offering the best of both Sonos' multi-room speaker platform and both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant's smart home prowess, the Sonos One is the pinnacle of connectivity. Want to hear your favorite song from Spotify? All you need to do is ask! Want every speaker in the upstairs to play the same song? Group them together via the Sonos app and you'll have a house party in minutes. While there are more powerful (and more expensive) speakers listed down below, for the vast majority of folks, the Sonos One is the best deal in 2019. Read the full review: Sonos One http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/30ea2dba7247e30eef37edb2dd63eaaf.jpg Image credit: Sonos Sonos was one of the first companies to get into the connected speaker business, and as a result has one of the most seamlessly integrated speaker systems on the market. The Sonos Play:5 is the company's flagship, and has the Unlike solutions which rely on Bluetooth or Google Cast, Sonos' speakers are controlled directly from its own app, which has built in integration for a number of streaming services, including Spotify, Tidal, Apple Music, Deezer, TuneIn a whole range of smaller services. Since this is a multi-room setup, you can also add additional speakers such as the Sonos Play:3 and Sonos Play:1 to built up a complete surround sound system, but if you want to keep it simple, then you should find the Play:5 to offer more than enough sound. Read the full review: Sonos Play:5 http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dPf7H8Ut6JMnoKutBddFCU.jpg Image credit: TechRadar The Pure Evoke C-F6 isn't a flashy speaker – its modest (but refined) looks let it slip unassumingly into any decor, although it doesn't boast the premium multi-room options of pricier competitors on this list. But that's also not really the point of the Evoke C-F6 – it's positioning itself to be the one-room, one-shop stop for all your audio playback needs. There's a dazzling array of audio source options on offer here, with the biggest draws being Spotify Connect, DAB, Internet radio, Bluetooth and old faithful CD playback. With a solid app letting you control the speaker from across a room, and the Evoke C-F6 offering a warm and natural soundstage from its stereo speakers, it'll take pride of place on whichever bedside table or living room shelf you decide to pop it on. Read the full review: Pure Evoke C-F6 http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/797385e085b0915abb87ac172059a5d3.jpg Image credit: TechRadar It's a tough call between this speaker and the Mu-So Qb for the best looking music player on this list, but the Zeppelin is certainly the most striking. But as with all these speakers, the proof is in the pudding, and the Zeppelin sounds absolutely stunning no matter what volume you play it at. Its bass is distortion free, and its mid-range is nice and punchy. It's also backed by a complete swath of connectivity options, so you'll have no problem getting your more obscure apps playing through the speaker. The only problem is its price: $699 (£499 / AU$999). But while the sticker price ensures that only serious audiophiles will give it some consideration, it's a lot less pricey than the Mu-So Qb, and you get a similar level of sound quality. Read the full review: Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Wireless http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/PShmU5q6hPVsR6qmxW4jxV.jpg You might not have heard of it before, but Naim audio is a company that produces some of the most stylish connected speakers in the business, and we think the Mu-So Qb is the best they've put out yet. It comes will a full suite of connectivity options including aptX Bluetooth, Spotify Connect and AirPlay, which means all of your music should be supported at its maximum resolution, no matter what device you're using. But even if you don't have your phone in hand, the speaker is still controllable using its sleek touch-screen which allows you to access internet radio stations, for example. It's got a premium price, but if you pluck for the Qb then you won't be disappointed. Read the full review: Mu-So Qb http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6MJdPxubMHRULUwovkSB9B.jpg Image credit: Samsung Not content with dominating the TV world, Samsung now seems to have its sights set on becoming the number one brand for home entertainment audio, too. All this effort has already delivered outstanding results in the shape of both the HW-K850 and, especially, HW-K950 Dolby Atmos soundbars, as well as a range of ground-breaking multi-room wireless speakers. But, above everything stands the South Korean manufacturer's HW-MS650. No other one-body soundbar has combined so much raw power with so much clarity, scale and, especially, bass, or excelled so consistently with both films and music. It’s the sort of performance that only genuine audio innovation can deliver - and with that in mind, it’s well worth its $450 / £599 price tag. Read the full review: Samsung HW-MS650 Soundbar Looking for a great soundbar? Read our list of the best soundbars in 2019http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/p2Riax5k2EsxYUSqj5Arq7.jpg Image credit: Google When it comes to stuffing a small apartment with Google Assistant devices, is too much of a good thing bad? As the Google Home Max proved to us, the answer is no. Although absolutely massive, the Home Max makes for a surprisingly versatile addition to a space of any size, thanks to its balanced, awesome sound delivery and Smart Sound function that helps it adjust to any environment you set it in. Google’s big speaker is more elegant than it has any right to be, what with clever touches like the moveable resting pad and orientation-friendly touch functions. It’s also appreciated that its looks stand out if you choose to notice it, but blend into the scene during everyday use. Read the full review: Google Home Max http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/36kQTYK72xhcsMmDikhBuj.jpg Image credit: KEF If you're looking for a pair of bookshelf speakers that handle wireless audio as well as having the traditional connections for your vinyl player, check out the KEF LS50 Wireless. While KEF's flagship speakers don't support every wireless standard on the market, they do support Tidal or Spotify, plus standard Bluetooth 4.0. In terms of sound quality, they are staggeringly detailed and their stand-out sonic feature is their holographic imaging and instrumental layering: We could hear exactly where each instrument was coming from and each instrument sounded distinct and never blurry. Soundstage was expansive with good space to the side and above the listener. Resolution is excellent as the speaker can dig for the micro-details that get lost in lesser audio systems. If you're an audiophile who wants the convenience of wireless audio - whether that’s directly from internet streaming services like Tidal or Spotify or from a home server - the KEF LS50 Wireless should be at the top of your list. Read the full review: KEF LS50 Wireless http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EP95NL6zANkardAXq4XXSd.jpg Image credit: TechRadar Of its trio of new multi-room speakers, the Marshall Stanmore is the middle child. However, that doesn't mean it's the unloved sibling. While the larger Woburn is just a little too big for most rooms, and the smaller Acton has a number of connectivity issues, the Stanmore strikes a nice balance between the two with a sound that's big and punchy, without straying too far into 'overkill' territory (although mark our words, it will if you want it to). It features its own app for controlling it, but we were fans of how nicely it integrates with a host of other services including AirPlay, Google Cast and Spotify Connect, meaning you can stick to the apps you're familiar with while still controlling your new toy. But it's the on-board controls that impressed us the most. You're able to set presets from a number of different services, meaning you can happily switch between pre-defined Spotify playlists and internet radio stations with a twist of a vintage Marshall-styled brass knob. It's not got the most refined sound out of the speakers on this list, but the Marshall Stanmore is intelligently designed and simple to use. If you're looking for something to take on the road, check out our Marshall Tufton review – it packs the vintage Marshall look and rocking sound into a portable design. Read the full review: Marshall Stanmore http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vdnpHWUmfsCZcSmWsod2qS.jpg Image credit: TechRadar If we only rated the Apple HomePod on the merits of sound performance, the HomePod would likely hold the top spot on this list. But, as a connected speaker, it has a long way to go. Overall, it delivers rich, clear sound that will impress anyone who listens to it, and every facet of the way it’s designed and delivers audio has been well thought through. But there are still a few little bumps in there that remove some of the gloss – Siri not being able to search the web, a lack of Bluetooth streaming, or being able to control your Apple TV or iPhone directly from the speaker are omissions that many would like to have. Once it builds out these features, we'll definitely revisit it and possibly award it a higher spot on this list. Until then, however, it's a speaker that only serves a niche audience - and even then not very well. Read the full review: Apple HomePod http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/E4l-Glrrw6Y
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A lot of the hype that normally comes with the Plus-sized releases has been stifled when it comes to the poor iPhone 8 Plus. Being announced in the shadow of the larger and, frankly, more impressive iPhone X may well hurt its reputation, and the recent news about the iPhone XS and iPhone XR range has all but quenched its hopes. That said, there's a valuable role that the iPhone 8 Plus plays, particularly considering that the price sits at the midpoint between its smaller iPhone 8 brethren and the oversized 10th anniversary edition handset. For more detailed info, check out our iPhone 8 Plus hands-on review. So if it's more expensive than the iPhone 8, but less pricey than the iPhone X, how much exactly will the Plus-sized flagship set you back? Read on to see the best plans with all the major carriers, whether you're after big data, best budget option, or just the best overall value. See also: | iPhone 7 Plus deals | iPhone 7 deals | iPhone 8 deals | Samsung Galaxy S8 deals | Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus deals The best iPhone 8 Plus plansAt present the iPhone 8 Plus in the 256GB storage configuration is completely out of stock across the board. It's likely to stay that way too as Apple moves to favour the iPhone XS and iPhone XR. Similarly, the 64GB model isn't available at Telstra, so you'll have to go with either Optus or Vodafone for your major carrier needs but, as is usually the case, Optus is offering a much more competitive array of plans. Regardless, below are the best deals you can get on the 64GB model. Read more about the iPhone 8 Plushttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/JMoVn5CcgrM
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Although the iPhone XS and iPhone XR have stolen the spotlight for now, those that don't necessarily have a desire for a huge screen, a notch, or a glaring void in their wallets will likely be chasing the iPhone 8. Of course, there's always its bigger sibling, the iPhone 8 Plus if you happen to fall in the middle of those two categories. On this page, we've dug deep into all the networks and carriers and compared them to shreds, providing you with the best possible value, the biggest data, and the cheapest plans you can get bundled with your new Apple handset. If you're not too sure if this is indeed the handset for you, you can check out our iPhone 8 review for the full lowdown. Otherwise, read on for our top picks from all the carriers. See also: iPhone X deals | iPhone 7 deals | iPhone 7 Plus deals | Samsung Galaxy S9 deals | Galaxy S9 Plus deals The best iPhone 8 plansOptus is currently being super competitive with its iPhone 8 plans and is easily dominating every sphere. Vodafone is close to being as affordable as Optus, but doesn't quite get there for value. If you're deadset on going with Telstra, then there are still options for you, but it could cost you almost twice as much for the same provisions in some cases. As such, we've stuck with Optus' offerings on this front. There also appears to be no stock of the larger 256GB model of iPhone 8 available from any telco. http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/6DI_dCLRVFo
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The official Amazon Prime Day 2019 dates have been announced, and just as we had suspected, it's happening on the third weekend of July – less than a month away. Amazon Prime Day starts on July 15 and and runs through July 16, with the online retailer promising two full days of 'epic deals,' according to today's press release. The start time is midnight in each region (so the kick off for the US and UK Prime Day will differ, for example). Amazon is previewing what will be on sale in each region. Amazon Prime Day deals already liveAmazon is already putting things on sale, and naturally, it's touting its own good or partners' goods first, along with some deeply 15?discounted on-demand movies. In the US, starting today, this means saving $120 on the newly announced Toshiba HD 43-inch Fire TV Edition Smart TV – it's just $179.99 and will almost certainly be a hot seller. Amazon does say that its Deal of the Day can sell out. In the UK today, Amazon is offering the Amazon Echo Show Gen 1 speaker (the first Echo to have a screen in it) for just £79.99 (it was £179.99 originally). Renting movies, is as low as $2.99 / £1.99 for Amazon Prime Day subscribers. The film Us is $2.99 and so is Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse on Amazon.com. Expect big Prime Day deals on Amazon productsWhat will be on sale for Prime Day on July 15? Amazon says Prime members will also see dramatic deals on Alexa-enabled devices, claiming they'll be the "biggest Prime Day deals ever" on such hardware. That of course foreshadows big price drops on Amazon Echo speakers, the Amazon Fire TV line, and Amazon Kindle and Fire Tablet devices. Amazon also owns Whole Foods now, and last year Prime Day deals extended to the grocery chain. Expect more of the same there, too. In total, there will be more than one million deals globally, according to Amazon, and they'll launch throughout the 48-hour event. Amazon intends to keep coming back to its website for two straight days, though you can always follow our Amazon Prime Day 2019 guide for a curated list of the best deals. http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/FEyXO1375Fc
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With the recent announcement of the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max came the news that they would replace the regular iPhone X in regular production. This doesn't mean that carriers won't still have plenty of stock left to get rid of, and we're anticipating they'll want to do so at reduced prices (helping you out with a handset that would otherwise be very expensive). If you're looking to see why it's so expensive, you can check out our iPhone X review for more details on its sleek specs, but if you're trying to save some dollars by scoring it in a plan, look no further. We've painstakingly compared all the plans from the major providers that'll net you the Apple flagship. There's something for everyone, whether you're looking for massive data, a penny-pincher of a plan, or the best all-rounder, we've got it here for you. See also: iPhone 8 deals | iPhone 8 Plus deals | Samsung Galaxy S9 deals | Galaxy S9 Plus deals It's worth noting that, while there are very few iPhone X plans available right now, it just so happens that one of the most affordable plans also offers up the most data and is the best overall value by far. Editor's Choice: The best iPhone X planRead more about the iPhone Xhttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/8leKQTf1Kyc
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If you're looking to score yourself a brand new computer or monitor, for work or for pleasure, then there's never been a better time to check out Dell's array of laptops, ultrabooks, 2-in-1s, monitors, and gaming rigs. Considering that the Dell XPS 13 currently sits at the top of our lists for both the best ultrabooks and best laptops available in Australia, it's definitely worth checking one out with these savings. While you can visit Dell's store homepage directly and have a browse yourself, we've gone through the site's current offers and picked out some of the choicest ones available, so you don't have to rifle through the options yourself. GamingMonitorsUltrabooks and 2-in-1sThe best Ultrabooks in AustraliaThe best laptops of 2019 in AustraliaThe best 2-in-1 laptop in AustraliaThe best gaming laptops in Australiahttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/ogEyvfU6rwM
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Telstra has been promising to shake up its plan offerings for some time now, and today the telco finally delivered. Similar to Vodafone's big overhaul in 2017, Telstra has completely removed lock-in contracts from its range of options. The Aussie communications giant has canned its wide variety of plans that it used to offer with each handset, and instead boiled it all down to just four primary plans. Best phones in Australia 2019: top 10 smartphones tested and rankedSmall ($50) – 15GB, trial 5GMedium ($60) – 60GB, trial 5GLarge ($80) – 100GB, full 5GExtra Large ($100) – 150GB, full 5GYou can sign up for these plans on a month-to-month basis, either bringing your own phone or opting into a handset payment plan (over either 24-, or 36-months), the monthly cost of which will simply be added to your bill. As part of this shift, Telstra has done away with its unlimited data plan, which would previously have set you back $199 each month, regardless of which handset you paired with it. Similarly, there are no more options to lease a handset. As for excess data, none of the plans will automatically incur the extra charges associated with going over your prescribed allowance. Instead, download speeds will be capped at 1.5Mbps, and while there's no longer an option to purchase extra data for use at uncapped speeds, customers have the option to upgrade their plan at any point of the month and simply pay pro-rata. Telstra will replace thousands of phone and internet plans with just 20The best smartphone sales in Australia: find the best EOFY deals5G ready?As indicated above, all four of the new plans arrive with some level of 5G capability, but there's a catch. The Small and Medium plans only include 5G during what Telstra's describing as its 'trial period' of the tech, which ends June 30, 2020. After this, you'll need to drop an extra $15 per month for the privilege. Assuming that the plan pricing stays the same, this will make adding 5G compatibility to either of the lower two plans almost as expensive as just upgrading straight to the Large, which includes 'full' 5G and a heap more data. Currently, Telstra's 5G functionality is still rather limited, with coverage only currently available in (very) selected areas, and which don't always deliver the speeds that are promised. If the telco's continuing rollout goes to plan, however, we should have a much more capable and available 5G network by the time the trial's over. If you're looking to jump to Telstra or are an existing customer who's plan is up, the new Medium plan is arguably the best value at the current time – it gives youa healthy 60GB of data and you're not paying a large premium for 5G which is, right now, an incomplete service. And, for what it's worth, you'll still have access to 5G for the better part of a year. 5G: everything you need to knowWhat's been lost?Telstra has cut a number of its previously-included features from these new plans, presumably to make the overall package more affordable to those that wouldn't use the extras... or, alternatively, to squeeze some more pennies from those who do. One such trimming is the loss of unlimited international calls and texts (to eligible countries), which you can add on to your plan for a $10 monthly fee. Unlimited local calls and texts are still included across all four plans. Similarly, there's no more included global roaming data, so you'll either have to cop the "standard rates" for roaming data or purchase an "International Day Pass", which costs $10 per day and includes unlimited roaming talk and text, 200MB of included data, and charges of $10 per 500MB excess data usage. Best Telstra mobile plansData onlyJust like Telstra's phone plans (which include talk and text), the telco's data-only plans have undergone a similar revision, with the range boiled down to just four month-to-month plans. Small ($15) – 5GB, trial 5GMedium ($25) – 10GB, trial 5GLarge ($50) – 50GB, full 5GExtra Large ($75) – 100GB, full 5GThese contain the same configuration of 5G access (either included for free, or on a trial basis), and have the same situation with excess data usage, where going over your limit results in a shaped download speed of 1.5Mbps. For those Telstra customers who're already comfortable with their existing contract – either mobile or data-only – you'll be able to stay on the same plan as you've currently got, as Telstra will continue to honour these contracts, although it's currently unclear if it will continue to do so once your current contract period expires. Telstra TV no longer requires a Telstra broadband connectionhttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/_TKZH6uitpA
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The thing we're loving about the 2019 Cricket World Cup is that there are high profile matches around every corner. And they don't come much bigger than this one - England vs Australia. In an Ashes year, this is a dress rehearsal on the biggest stage. And calling a winner between these two is virtually impossible - even at the bookies, it appears. Clear your Tuesday, because you're going to want to watch this one. That's why we've created this guide for getting an England vs Australia live stream, regardless of where you are in the world. England's home Cricket World Cup has been seesawing from the sublime to the terrible. The highs of an 8 wicket win against the West Indies and Eoin Morgan leading the way to an astonishing 397/6 against Afghanistan, have been mirrored by surprise defeats to Pakistan and Sri Lanka. They now face the other best three teams in the tournament in a bid to avoid the embarrassment of crashing out of their own World Cup. Australia have looked consistently impressive throughout, with their only blemish a defeat to the strong India team. Since then, they have vanquished Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh with relative ease. The brutal batting of David Warner and Aaron Finch have looked particularly foreboding, and England's bowlers will need to be on top form to stop them. Both teams will be desperate to win this one and set the standard ahead of the Ashes - as well as for the 2019 Cricket World Cup, of course. Getting an England vs Australia live stream is the easy bit and you can continue reading to see how to watch from just about anywhere on Earth. Discover how to live stream every single Cricket World Cup gamehttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg Watch a Cricket World Cup 2019 live stream from outside your countryIt's bad news for UK viewers as you have to pay to watch, while the Aussies have this one for free - more details on that coverage and how to watch in Pakistan (for free), New Zealand, US and India. But if you're away from your home country today, the minute you try to watch your domestic broadcast you'll discover that you can't because of geo-blocking. That's annoying, but by using a VPN you can watch it anyway without reverting to some dodgy, illegal feed you've dug out online. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/B9XNGCRYNHKJzN5zVfTMje.jpg How to watch the England game in the UK http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/D39crXd3gob7KPsE3LAFUo.jpg How to watch this World Cup game in Australiahttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WWQ7UGT97CVJAVBcELPxRQ.jpg How to stream 2019 Cricket World Cup online in Indiahttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/He6pJKQNQDZMwKNLHwXpan.jpg How to get a FREE Cricket World Cup live stream in Pakistanhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/kZWNrTtXZs7Ep2c7452KSo.jpg How to watch England vs Australia: New Zealand live stream http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/x4WvmjGdnEUCFeqhMUrnWo.jpg How to watch England vs Australia: US live stream http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ebGZgkd4qVX7mUuvz3WNkH.jpg http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/0qOREZ-PSS8
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In the ongoing war for your smart home, Samsung’s SmartThings brand is releasing a trio of new products that includes a cheaper Cloud Cam alternative: the lineup of 2019 products consists of the SmartThings Cam ($89.99), SmartThings Wifi Smart Plug ($17.99) and SmartThings Smart Bulb ($9.99) - all of which go on sale today. While the Samsung SmartThings Smart Bulb seems to be a shot across the bow of smart bulb competitors Sengled, Philips and LIFX, it’s the SmartThings Cam and SmartThings Wifi Smart Plug that pose the biggest threat to Amazon. They're a challenge because not only are Samsung’s products cheaper than Amazon’s, but also because they’re also compatible with both major smart platforms, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, plus Samsung’s expanding Bixby platform. The good news is that, according to Samsung, you don't even need a Samsung SmartThings hub for the SmartThings Cam - it works without any additional hardware. Samsung isn't clear if one is required for the Smart Plug and Smart Bulb, but we'd err on the side of caution and buy one if you plan on investing in Samsung's burgeoning smart platform. The battle for the smart homeIn Amazon's defense, however, it's still pretty much the market leader when it comes to smart speakers and smart displays thanks to its Amazon Echo family of devices. That's an area that Samsung has found real problems breaking into, not the least of which is because of the still-MIA Samsung Galaxy Home smart speaker. Until that comes out, Samsung's best play into your smart home is its series of QLED TVs that pack in Bixby, or its smart appliances – an area that Amazon hasn't really touched outside of its Amazon Basics Alexa Microwave. Are three products going to turn the tide in Samsung's favor? Probably not. But, when Samsung finally figures out its Galaxy Home smart speaker, these devices could be the first crucial components in an all-Samsung smart home. Looking to start a smart home? Here are the best smart home devices in 2019http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/W5LcLqZxqDw
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When you’re out there looking for a student laptop, it’s easy to feel tempted by the latest and greatest hardware. You’ll see the new MacBook Pro with up to an Intel Core i9 processor (CPU) and 32GB of memory (RAM) – not to mention the beefy AMD Vega graphics – and likely assume you need that power to get through your school work effectively. Luckily, you probably don’t. Sure, there are some students that really need that kind of horsepower. Engineering students are going to need a ton of graphics processor (GPU) and CPU power to get their school projects off the ground, likewise anyone that’s doing video or 3D course work. But, if you’re just trying to get that term paper done for your English class, a Chromebook with just 4GB of RAM will likely be enough. We’re going to take a deep dive into the kind of hardware you’re going to need to get your schoolwork done, paying special attention to the different kinds of workloads that students are likely going to run into on a daily basis. The good news? You may come out of this and save some cash by getting a more appropriate laptop for your specific studies. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hTyh5qLY3DSWpx6Lpyo8RT.jpg Microsoft's Surface Go should be an affordable dream for liberal arts students. (Image Credit: TechRadar) You don’t need a powerful laptop for writing Here at TechRadar, we do a lot of writing, so you can take it from us: you don’t need an absolute beast of a laptop to get your writing done. As long as you have 8GB of RAM – even 4GB if you're cash-strapped – you should be more than fine most of the time. This is especially true if you’re only working on one or two projects at a time, as individual Google Docs tabs won’t really eat up too much of your system resources. However, we will acknowledge that there are certain people that like to have 30 browser tabs open while listening to Apple Music (we’re certainly guilty). If that’s a luxury you can’t live without, the bump up to 16GB of RAM is worth the price of admission. Then, let’s talk about your processor. If you’ve been shopping around for a laptop for a while, you’ve likely seen plenty that advertise an Intel Core i7 or Core i9 processor, likely coupled with a four-figure price tag. You don’t need one of those, either. For most people, an Intel Core i5 processor is going to be more than enough to get your work done, especially if you get an 8th-generation Intel Kaby Lake Refresh or Whiskey Lake Ultrabook chip. You’ll get four cores and high enough clock speeds to power through whatever you need to do. Case in point: the Microsoft Surface Go is one of our favorite laptops for students – especially those majoring in liberal arts fields. It’s not exceptionally powerful, but it still has enough umph to get through your general schoolwork. It doesn’t hurt that the Windows tablet is basically designed to work perfectly with Windows, since it was designed by Microsoft, but it still serves as proof that a less-powerful laptop is more than good enough. And, don’t feel like you’re locked into macOS Catalina or Windows 10, either. The best Chromebooks make for awesome general student laptops, as they pack only what’s necessary. If all you do for school is within a web browser, you really don’t need anything more than a Chromebook. Plus, there are plenty of them out there these days that have gorgeous displays that are great for catching some Netflix in your downtime. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5p6zia3BZtdd5KWjzMXpS7.jpg The latest Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Carbon is a powerhouse. (Image Credit: TechRadar) Blinded by science However, there are plenty of scenarios where you might actually need more power. Not everyone’s college workload begins and ends with writing a paper. Heavy compute workloads, like those that Engineering and Computer Science students are going to run into will require, well, heavier computing. For these students, picking up a laptop with a powerful CPU and even a strong graphics processor is a must. While this does mean that Engineering students have an excuse to go with one of the latest gaming laptops, but there are plenty of laptops that are designed with compute-heavy workloads. Laptops like the Lenovo ThinkPad P73 mobile workstation come equipped with Nvidia Quadro graphics and Intel Xeon processors to better facilitate compute-heavy workloads. They’re kind of pricey, and not the most attractive devices, but a mobile workstation might be perfect for engineering students. The same goes for any students who need to cut their teeth on creative workloads, too. If you’re doing a lot of video editing or 3D work, a thin and light Ultrabook just isn’t going to cut it. You’re going to need a workstation-class device in that situation as well. We get that students don’t have the money to drop on a pro-level device, though, so something like the Dell XPS 15 or a 15-inch MacBook Pro should be able to get the job done, too. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5Hg2RbMX5hFez5mxGMnnxW.jpg The brand-new Razer Blade is a stylish gaming beast. (Image Credit: TechRadar) Have some fun, though College isn’t all about getting school work done, though, we know that. If all you did was put your head down and get work done, you’d get burnt out pretty quickly, and no one should have to go through that. So, you should also take entertainment into consideration. If you need to sit down and watch Netflix to give your brain a break, there’s absolutely no shame in that. Luckily, these days most laptops are capable of powering Netflix, so the trick will be to find one with a display that’s up to your standards. If you’re a resolution snob like we are, there are plenty of laptops with 4K displays so you can watch your favorite shows in all their glory. Even if the laptop you pick up doesn’t have a 4K display built in, pretty much every laptop on the market will let you connect to your dorm room TV and support 4K over HDMI or USB-C. But, what about gaming? If PC gaming is more your speed, one thing you need to realize right out of the bat is that picking up a laptop with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 is going to be very expensive. However, if you just want to play some Overwatch in 1080p between classes, you can pick out a laptop with a GTX 1660 Ti or GTX 1650, and that will be plenty. If you have the cash to burn, we won’t judge you for picking out the best gaming laptops, so you can play PC games like Cyberpunk 2077 with ray tracing enabled. You don’t need to buy the most powerful laptop to get your schoolwork done, but there’s no shame in admitting that you want the most powerful laptop. Life is more than schoolwork, so, like, enjoy yourself. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/g9wp3ihcTutMEXjPNDmh7K.jpg Looking to save cash? Try a Chromebook. (Image Credit: TechRadar) So, what should I buy? If there’s one thing you take away from this, it’s that you should consider what you actually need before you jump on the hype train for that new MacBook that everyone else has. You can save a ton of money by just picking up what you actually need. That being said, if you want to do some heavier computing stuff for fun, there’s no shame in picking up a beefier computer. Just realize that opting for more power will often result in an inflated price tag. At the end of the day, there is a lot of misinformation out there about what you need to get your work done. If your budget is just a few hundred bucks, there are plenty of options out there for you. Keep in mind that the best Chromebooks still exist in 2019, and might be the perfect choice for your schoolwork needs, especially if you just need to do some word processing in Google Docs. These are the best laptops for students writ largeOn a budget? Check out the best cheap laptop deals in the USWe've also covered the best UK cheap laptop sales and dealshttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/wFOgnzpXEOo
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Businesses and individuals with a third-level domain (.co.uk, .org.uk, .me.uk, .net.uk, .plc.uk or .ltd.uk) have until Tuesday morning to secure the shorter second level (.uk) equivalent of their domain before it becomes available to the public. Five years ago, Nominet, the registry for the .uk domain launched a new shorter domain ending called .uk. Registrants of existing .co.uk domains were given five years to decide if they wanted the corresponding .uk domain. On Tuesday, June 25, the five year 'Right of Registration' period will come to an end with the deadline closing at 6:00 am BST. So if you haven't yet registered for a .uk domain, now is your last chance. Why your business needs a .uk domain, now rather than laterHow to choose a domain name for your website : tld vs cctld vs exoticRecord for the most expensive domain name smashedOf the original ten million rights, around 1.8m are still available for the rights holder to exercise. If you believe you may have the right to a .uk domain, you can easily check to see if you do by heading to this website and entering your domain. Right of RegistrationAs the deadline approaches, many big brands such as Samsung, Audi and Toyota have signed up for their .uk domains. However, once the deadline closes on Tuesday morning, all outstanding rights expire and the domains will become generally available in July. Managing Director of Registry Solutions at Nominet, Eleanor Bradley explained that while it is the last day for businesses and invdividuals to claim their .uk domain, their existing .co.uk domains will not be affected, saying: “With the deadline approaching, companies and individuals need to take action now to avoid missing out on securing the shorter domain. By taking up the equivalent .uk they guarantee they – and no-one else – can use it now and in the future. But it’s a choice. In a world with hundreds of different domain endings already available, from .uk and .com to .london and .vip, we know not everyone will feel it’s a priority. For those happy with the .co.uk domain they already have, it is important to know that it will continue as normal.” We've also highlighted the best domain name registrarshttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/iiI_xOQ2sWk
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Having set a record for most goals scored during the group phase with 18, as well as the best-ever goal difference achieved during the stage after not conceding in any of their opening three games, the free-scoring USA go into today's game as strong favorites with Betfair. While the 2019 Women's World Cup marks only Spain's second appearance in the tournament, and they've perhaps surpassed expectations after making their way out of a tough group that included South Africa, Germany and China. It feels like it might be a one-sided affair, but we'll tell you how to get a USA vs Spain live stream from anywhere. This is only the second ever meeting between the two countries, with the last encounter taking place in January this year during a friendly in Alicante which saw the US winning 1-0 thanks to a 54th-minute goal from Christen Press. The USWNT already seem imperious at this early stage of the tournament, and it's hard to see today's game being quite as tight with so much more a stake. Nevertheless, Spain have shown no small amount of reliance to get to this stage, and if her teammates are able to create chances for her, ruthless Atletico Madrid striker Jennifer Hermoso will likely bury them. Don't miss any of the action by following the instructions below and grabbing a live stream of Spain vs USA wherever you are in the world. See how to live stream every single Women's World Cup gamehttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg Watch a FIFA Women's World Cup 2019 live stream from outside your countryIf you're in UK, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, we've got your viewing options listed below. If you're out of the country for today's match, you may find that geo-blocking will prevent you from watching your regular domestic coverage from abroad. You don't have to risk watching the match on a dodgy stream, however. With the option of using a VPN service, you can tune into the match no matter where you are in the world, and its super easy to set up. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/x4WvmjGdnEUCFeqhMUrnWo.jpg Live stream the USWT in the USFuboTV $44.99 for the first monthHulu with Live TV $44.99 per monthPlaystation Vue starting at $44.99 per monthDirecTV Now $50 per monthSling TV starting at $15 per monthYouTube TV $49.99 per month- Discover our pick of all the US's best sports streaming sites As well as opening up your viewing options for the Women's World Cup, using a VPN allows you to watch all your domestic sports coverage from abroad. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VgyagGS9HpAEPUQtUJBfrg.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jgvvohCEmS99W9XuRfJMSo.jpg How to watch a FIFA Women's World Cup live stream in Canadahttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/B9XNGCRYNHKJzN5zVfTMje.jpg How to stream Spain vs USA live in the UK http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/D39crXd3gob7KPsE3LAFUo.jpg How to watch Spain vs USA live stream in Australiahttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/kZWNrTtXZs7Ep2c7452KSo.jpg How to watch a Women's World Cup live stream in New Zealandhttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ebGZgkd4qVX7mUuvz3WNkH.jpg http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/J_Tws4X21_A
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We may have just seen the reveal of a host of brand new games at E3 2019 that have us looking to the future, but that doesn't mean we can't keep an eye on the past too in hopes that we'll see some more classic titles making a return. Final Fantasy 8 Remake, Link's Awakening and Ghostbusters: The Video Game are just a few of the games that developers have announced are receiving a modern makeover, and it seems like another classic caper could be undergoing the same treatment. Sony's Ape Escape could be the next title getting a remaster or remake and, with at least three games in the series, we think it might be a trilogy. PS5: all the games, specs, news, and rumors for Sony’s Playstation 5Best PS4 games 2019: the PlayStation 4 games you need to playBest upcoming games 2019: most anticipated titles for PS4, Xbox One and SwitchAlthough this hasn't actually been confirmed by Sony, a tweet from Twitter user piposaru20th (spotted by Eurogamer) suggests a remaster is on the way. Check out the tweet below (yes, it's in Japanese but we'll get to that): The plot thickenshttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XgtTsvyrPZcX6hQKLG2Xr8.jpg Image credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment Now, we always advise to take any rumors with a big pinch of salt, but there are actually a few aspects of this rumor that hint it could be legit. Firstly, it's Ape Escape's 20th anniversary this year (while the Western anniversary has just passed, the Japanese anniversary is this month). Spyro: Reignited Trilogy released 20 years after the game's original release in 1999, so it would make sense for Ape Escape to be the same. Which brings us on to the Japanese tweet itself. The tweet is from piposaru20t, which roughly translates to Pipo Monkeys in English. The Pipo Monkeys are the name for Ape Escape's Apes and the tweet seems to be from one of the dastardly sapians, roughly translating to: "Twenty years from that. I've been running around for a long time, but I wonder if there are any guys out there to chase ...?)" While the account isn't verified, it is followed by the official Sony Japan Twitter account, suggesting it's the real deal. Plus Sony is already releasing a remastered version of MediEvil later this year, so it's entirely possible it could be gearing up to remaster some other classic PlayStation titles for current/next generation consoles. Great escapehttp://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/StKinXkMRD7yPDeXuVd8Vh.jpg Image credit: Sony Interactive So what actually is Ape Escape? The PlayStation classic originally released in 1999 and saw you on a mission to capture some confused apes in a net who have been brainwashed by a mass-produced helmet and are causing chaos. Just the usual. The series spawned several spin-off titles, but there were four core games in the main franchise (in the West). That leads us to think that maybe, just maybe, an Ape Escape remaster could take the same form as the Crash Bandicoot N.Sane Trilogy and Spyro: Reignited Triology, with three games rolled into one. There's also the possibility that there's not a new game at all, but instead we will finally see the release of Piposaru 2001 in the West. This was the sequel to Ape Escape that only released in Japan and seen you vacuuming the trousers of the Apes rather than catching them. Either way, it seems like Sony has something up its sleeve when it comes to Ape Escape and we can't wait to see what it is... TechRadar has contacted Sony for comment. Read more: How Sony taught me to stop murdering companions and love the NPC sidekickhttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/9ljjrezixjs
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It's 2019 and compact cameras are still very popular. Smartphones have decimated the entry-level range of point-and-shoot models that used to be popular and as a result manufacturers have concentrated on putting more advanced features into cameras to make them more attractive than ever before. In addition to a move towards having physically larger sensors to boost image quality that can rival DSLRs and mirrorless cameras in some cases, some compact cameras sport lenses with long zoom ranges or wide maximum apertures, allowing for much more flexibility when shooting a range of subjects. Wi-Fi connectivity is also now de rigueur on most compacts, so you can transfer shots quickly to a phone for sharing on Facebook etc. Many enthusiast photographers used to be very sniffy about compact digital cameras, but there are now many that make a great alternative to a DSLR or mirrorless system camera. And those who are new to photography and thinking about stepping up from a smartphone have some pretty sophisticated choices as well. There are small cameras that can slip in a pocket yet have huge zoom ranges, and large bridge cameras that look like DSLRs, but have a fixed lens and lots of automated easy-to-use options. These cameras prove that you don't have to buy a camera that takes interchangeable lenses to get great shots. If you need a bit more help figuring out what kind of camera you need, then read this article: What camera should I buy? Or if you already know what kind of camera you want, then check out our more specific compact camera guides: Best bridge cameraBest travel cameraBest cheap cameraBest waterproof cameraOtherwise, keep reading to find out which are the best compact cameras on the market right now, and why. http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QYHzzzTAp7H8AFFFKasR9G.jpg It may be one of the more expensive options here and it's not a compact for everyone, but if you're after a high-quality camera, you're not going to be disappointed with the X100F. Everything about it oozes class. Unlike a lot of compacts here, it has a fixed lens as opposed to a zoom, but this 35mm equivalent f/2.0 lens is paired with a DSLR-sized 24.3MP APS-C sensor that delivers cracking results. There's also the tactile external controls and clever hybrid viewfinder - you have the option of electronic and optical views make it a joy to shoot with. You'll need some photo knowledge to get the best from it, but the X100F is an exquisite camera. Read the full review: Fujifilm X100F http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wF9usnqNA7L7rmZLpccAtL.jpg Panasonic invented the travel-zoom camera genre - compact cameras that can fit in a pocket but that have long zoom lenses built-in. And the TZ range has continued to dominate sales despite strong competition. However, the compact camera has moved on and Panasonic needs to do more to attract buyers. Its response has been to keep the camera body about the same size as earlier TZ-series cameras but to squeeze a much larger 1-inch sensor into the TZ100. This enables the pixels to be about 2.4x bigger than they are in models like the TZ70 and this helps the TZ100 produce much higher quality images. The zoom lens isn't quite so extensive, but you still get an electronic viewfinder that makes it easier to compose images in bright sunny conditions. Read the full review: Panasonic Lumix TZ100 http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JBASxCzm3ZeRXZbZcZMr4.jpg If you're looking for a powerful all-in-one bridge camera, then the RX10 IV from Sony is the best there is. You'll pay a premium for that performance, but when you look at what else is out there for the same price, the RX10 IV is virtually in a league of its own. Featuring a huge 24-600mm f/2.4-4 zoom lens, the RX10 IV builds on the RX10 III with an overhauled AF system that now does justice to the rest of the camera, while the 1-inch, 20.1MP sensor is capable of achieving excellent levels of detail. Handling is very polished, feeling like a DSLR in the hand and complemented by a large and bright electronic viewfinder. That's not forgetting the ability to capture video in 4K and shoot at up to 24fps. Impressive stuff. Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV review http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qe56zb4zMgyuRjmUKgvUcP.jpg While there's now a decent selection of premium 1.0-inch sensor compact cameras to choose from, the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II sets itself apart thanks to its dinky proportions and streamlined controls. The highly pocketable dimensions do mean there are sacrifices to be made, with the PowerShot G9 X Mark II featuring a relatively short focal length zoom lens. However, if you're looking for a neat compact camera that can produce vastly superior images to your smartphone, and has decent connectivity options and simple-to-use controls, the PowerShot G9 X Mark II is an excellent choice. Read the full review: Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/365Z9TPqd4WLmSUBxqNQgj.jpg Panasonic's muscled it's way into the growing premium 1-inch compact sector with the brilliant Lumix LX15, and is the perfect balance of performance, features and price. First, the bad news - there's no built-in EVF and the smooth finish doesn't offer the best handgrip, but the 24-72mm lens is one of the fastest around with a maximum aperture of f/1.4. Add to that some polished handling with dual control rings and a touchscreen, snappy AF and 4K video capture, and you have one of the best compact cameras around. Read the full review: Panasonic Lumix LX15 http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/c7b11ab965f9db1c1f904945f1cf54bf.jpg Sony's original RX100 was a landmark camera that fused a 1-inch sensor in a compact, metal body with the controls and image quality demanded by enthusiasts. The RX100 V goes a step further, though, with a 'stacked' sensor design for high-speed data capture. This means it can shoot 4K video, amazing 40x slow motion and still images at 24fps in continuous burst mode. That's not forgetting the neat little built-in electronic viewfinder that its rivals lack. It's a pricey option and does have its quirks, but if you're looking for a versatile, pocket-sized compact with a quality zoom lens, you won't be disappointed. Read the full review: Sony RX100 V http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5VzbKYFkuK8kS7tMQvkHHn.jpg This trend towards bigger sensors shows up in the Panasonic Lumix FZ2000. Bridge cameras are very popular because they offer a colossal zoom range at a modest cost. To design a big zoom, though, the makers have to use a tiny sensor – and here Panasonic took the wise choice to sacrifice zoom range for better quality. The Panasonic FZ2000 uses a 1-inch sensor, and while the zoom tops out at 480mm equivalent, which is relatively short for a bridge camera, that's still plenty for all but the most extreme everyday use. We love the FZ2000 because it delivers both image quality and zoom range - if you're looking for something a bit cheaper, the older FZ1000 is still available. Read the full review: Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wV7qMkK4zQS3DMWyYrHcVe.jpg http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/CUdsq6VuZsyvoLqFbcPVpk.jpg If you're wanting a compact camera that can do a better job than your smartphone the WX220 ticks a lot of boxes, especially when you consider the extra flexibility offered by the 10x optical zoom, running from 25-250mm. Images are bright and punchy, with decent detail – ideal for sharing online or printing at typical sizes – while it's nice to see Wi-Fi connectivity included as well. The 2.7-inch screen is a little on the small side, but that does help to keep the dimensions of the camera to a pocket-friendly size. The WX220 may not have lots of bells and whistles, but what it does do, it does well. Read the full review: Sony WX220 http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ijSu8UmnxYMkCJTtApj96H.jpg When photography was film-based most compact cameras took 35mm rolls, the same as a professional-level SLR. This meant that provided your camera had a decent lens you could get brilliant results. Digital photography changed that and many compact cameras have much smaller sensors which makes achieving high quality images more of a challenge. Leica and Sony are the only companies that make a compact camera with a full-frame sensor and while Sony's RX1 models are great, the Leica Q (Typ 116) has won our hearts. The biggest downside to the Q is its price, there's no getting around that. But for that huge stack of cash you get a Leica Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens, a superb electronic viewfinder with 3,680,000 dots, a 3-inch 1,040,000-dot touchscreen, snappy autofocusing, traditional exposure controls and the ability to create stunning images. Despite the price, Leica can't make enough Q's to keep up with demand. Read the full review: Leica Q What camera should I buy?http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/DFniZ3_VOy0
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RHA has cut the cord on the popular RHA T20 earphones to bring us the RHA T20 Wireless headphones. The headphones were launched globally last week, and now they've made their way to the Indian market. The new earphones are connected by a neckband, and use RHA's proprietary DualCoil drivers, which are designed to reproduce "refined, high-resolution audio," according to the company. Also, they boast 12 hours of battery life and fidelity aptX Bluetooth. The best in-ear headphones in 2019In-ear, on-ear, and over-ear: here are the best wireless headphonesWant to get rid of the cord completely? Check out the best true wireless earbudsLike their wired predecessors, the T20 Wireless headphones include three different tuning filters, which adjust the sound signature of the buds to suit the genre of music you're listening to, and your personal tastes when it comes to audio. The Reference filter is designed for crisp, balanced listening, and will probably suit audiophiles best, while the Bass filter is made to highlight the lowest frequencies in rock and hip-hop tracks. Lastly, there's the Treble filter, which is designed to "highlight details in the upper frequencies – ideal for jazz, acoustic, or classical tracks". http://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uc5sVtUjLDk8pQgEjQbtoh.jpg Image credit: RHA Hi-Res comes at a priceThe RHA T20 Wireless headphones also come with an optional 3.5mm wired connection, which the company says can deliver Hi-Res Audio and a frequency range of 16Hz - 40,000Hz. Without the wired connection, the neckband offers 12 hours battery life, as well as a universal remote, which allows users to "switch between music, calls, and digital assistant functions at the touch of a button". The wireless earphones come with silicone and foam eartips, in a range of sizes to suit every ear. With an IPX4 rating, the RHA T20 Wireless headphones should be able to withstand sweaty workout sessions and spots of rain alike – and with sports and clothing clips included, you can use the headphones with a wired connection without the cable getting caught in your zipper as you run. The RHA T20 Wireless headphones retail at Rs 22,999 in India. Wireless headphones vs true wireless earbuds: which design is best for you?http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/kBd_QLRGfJQ
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The UAE is looking at implementing a data protection law, similar to EU’s introduction of General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in 2008, as part of the UAE National Cybersecurity Strategy. TRA has launched the 2020-2025 strategy as the country is entering the fifth-generation era in a bid to enable swift and coordinated response to cyber incidents in the UAE. “Part of the strategy is that data privacy is crucial to the cyber and the UAE is regulating and drafting a data protection law. We will look at the best performing practices performed worldwide; GDPR will be one of the inputs to it. We want to make sure that whatever regulations are put, are easy to be implemented across different sectors,” Mohammad Al Zarooni, Director of Policies and Programs Department at Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of the UAE, told TechRadar Middle East, at an event. Bahrain has launched its Personal Data Protection Law and more countries in the region are expected to follow. Phil Mennie, director for digital trust at consultancy firm PwC, said that the demand for privacy expertise exploded after the introduction of GDPR. “Large organisations are impacted by the GDPR but we observed, unlike in Europe where privacy has been a topic for a very long time, in the Middle East there is a lower understanding of how privacy impacts organisations,” he said. Mennie said that the UAE law is expected this year and in Saudi Arabia, it is expected this year or next year. GDPR has a ceiling of 4% of global annual revenues or up to 20,000 euros if a breach is not reported within 72 hours. Regarding this, Al Zarooni said that the authority needs to protect people’s data as regulation and, at the same time, doesn’t want to put a lot of burden on the economy to be compliant with such regulations. Moreover, he said that there are some talks about a unified GCC law but “I believe that most of the regulations worldwide will be more or less the same, some will be more stringent and some will be relaxed. One unified GCC law might be good but it will be challenging to come up with”. Nine critical infrastructures get priorityAs part of the new UAE cybersecurity strategy, Al Zarooni said that 60 initiatives will be executed in a three-year timeframe but importance will be given to nine critical infrastructures such as government, energy, ICT, electricity and water, finance and insurance, emergency services, health, transportation, food and agriculture, through five pillars. These pillars are: To enhance cybersecurity laws Regulations to address all types of cybercrimesSecure existing and emerging technologies and support protection of SMEs by developing essential cybersecurity standard for SMEs, Mandate cybersecurity implementation certification for government suppliers, Build a one-stop portal for SMEs to enable them to implement the standard.Moreover, Al Zarooni added that some of the frameworks for the emerging technologies such as internet of things, cloud computing, AI and Blockchain are already in the drafting phase and depends on the mass execution of such technologies within the country. “The cybersecurity law can’t be a standalone and will be there to strike a balance between the usage and the benefits versus the rest of the technologies,” he said. The reason for this strategy, he said, is due to the rising cybercrimes in the country. Lucrative opportunitiesAccording to research firm Cybersecurity Ventures, cyberattacks are the fastest growing crime and are increasing in size, sophistication and cost. Cybercrimes are expected to cost the world $6 trillion annually by 2021, up from $3 trillion in 2015, while the cybersecurity market is expected to experience a 12-15% year-over-year growth through 2021. The authority is enabling the ecosystem to capture the huge cybersecurity opportunities available – AED 1.8b UAE cybersecurity market and the AED 18b Middle East and North Africa market. Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of TRA, emphasised the need for a national cybersecurity strategy as a main element in risk prevention and preparedness for security challenges in cyberspace. “If we want to draw a future perception of the UAE, years from now, we would see the features of the smart city where millions of devices and platforms are connected, producing massive amounts of data, many of which will be at risk of piracy or privacy violation,” he said. He added that the strategy has been developed based on the analysis of more than 50 sources of indicators and international publications, in addition to working with a team of international experts and benchmarking with 10 leading countries in cybersecurity systems. Moreover, he said the strategy will also work on developing capabilities of more than 40,000 cybersecurity professionals, by encouraging professionals and students to pursue a career in cybersecurity, developing necessary cybersecurity capabilities to meet aspirations of the country, and fostering an ecosystem of cybersecurity training providers. SIM swap fraud leaves two-factor authentication users at riskRussia and Iran expected to conduct disruptive cyber-attacks in Middle Easthttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/RE0babqGAPk
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Good news for fans of 2018's God of War: it looks like a development team is being put together for a sequel to the critically-acclaimed action game. As spotted by GamesRadar, Developer Santa Monica posted job listings last week for a number of roles across its programming, art, design, and tech art teams – with one listing clearly citing the God of War reboot. Applicants for Senior Combat Designer "Must have knowledge of God of War (2018) and be able to speak in depth about the combat systems, mechanics and enemies." PS5 release date: when will we see the next-gen console?And what are the best PS4 games to play before it launches?New Nintendo Switch: the console upgrade likely to come this yearA listing for Facial Blend Shape Character Artist also specifically mentions "next-gen video game platform experience" for the role: something that should whittle down prospective applicants to relatively few animators, given that the next generation of consoles have yet to launch. The waters are muddied slightly with a Senior Gameplay Animator posting, which asks for someone "to help us push the boundaries of action and combat movement and set the bar for gameplay feel on the PS4". Given the lead time needed to work on a game as large of God of War, we wouldn't expect a new title until after the Holiday 2020 release of the PS5. However, we could well see a cross-generation release that lands on both the current and incoming PlayStation consoles. You, me, and DLCWe fully expected a God of War sequel to come at some point, and despite concerns during development over the new direction of the iconic action series, the God of War reboot become an instant classic, with rave reviews and many calling it one of the best games of the year. God of War director Corey Barlog had said there were originally plans for DLC for the 2018 reboot, but said they were halted for being "too ambitious". We heard a similar notion about the upcoming Breath of the Wild 2 game from Nintendo, which had so many DLC ideas it decided to roll them into a new title entirely. The upgraded specs of the PlayStation 5 is likely to make for even bigger, grander worlds than the current generation of consoles. With the likes of God of War, Red Dead Redemption 2, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild already creating games of massive scale, we can't wait to see how a developer like Sony Santa Monica is planning to up its game. 5 things we still don't know about Death Strandinghttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/qTtN-Ltr0XY
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Amazon has become the world’s most valuable brand this year by overtaking Google and Apple, according to a report. Last year, Google was ranked the top, followed by Apple and Amazon. The 2019 BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands ranking, released by WPP and Kantar put amazon on top. Smart acquisitions by the brand have led to new revenue streams and combined with the ability to stay ahead of its competitors by offering a diverse eco-system of products and services, has allowed the e-commerce giant to accelerate its brand value growth. “Amazon’s phenomenal brand value growth demonstrates how brands are now less anchored to individual categories and regions. The boundaries are blurring as technology fluency allow brands, such as Amazon, Google and Alibaba, to offer a range of services across multiple consumer touchpoints,” said Doreen Wang, Kantar’s Global Head of BrandZ. Disruptive ecosystem models are flourishingUsing their consumer experience and expertise, she said that these brands are crossing over into the business services sector, creating new opportunities for brand growth. “Disruptive ecosystem models are flourishing in regions such as Asia, where consumers are more technology-enabled and where brands are integrating themselves into every aspect of people’s daily lives,” she added. Asian brands increase their presence with 15 Chinese, three Indian and one Indonesian brand making the ranking among a total of 23 from the region. “The growth in value of this year’s top 100 brands to an all-time high proves the power of investing in brands to deliver superior shareholder value. Behind this headline growth figure lies the success coming from a new phenomenon of ecosystem brand building,” David Roth, CEO of The Store WPP EMEA and Asia and Chairman of BrandZ, said. “We’re seeing a move from individual product and service brands to a new era of highly-disruptive ecosystems. Brands need to understand the value this type of model can create and should embrace its approach to be successful in the future,” he said. Instagram emerged as this year’s fastest riserFor the first time, Alibaba overtook Tencent and became the most valuable Chinese brand, moving up two places to No 7. Tencent dropped three places to No 8. Instagram emerged as this year’s fastest riser, climbing 47 places to No 44. Despite the economic uncertainty surrounding the US and China trade tariffs, almost a third of a trillion dollars ($328 billion) of value was added to the BrandZ Top 100 Global ranking over the last year, giving it a combined brand value of $4.7 trillion – roughly the combined GDP of Spain, Korea and Russia. Much of this value is derived from consumer technology brands appearing in the ranking which combined are now worth in excess of $1 trillion. The report said that luxury is the fastest growing category (+29%) followed by retail (+25%), fuelled by the shifting preferences to digital channels from Gen Y and Gen Z consumers. Microsoft reveals first Middle East data centreOracle announces new data centre in Abu Dhabihttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/MzSnoJu8MjE
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Not long to go now until the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 sees the light of day – an August launch is expected – and the latest from the rumour mill suggests at least one Note 10 model is ditching expandable storage. Max Weinbach from XDA Developers took to Twitter to reveal a few Note 10 tidbits from a source who's played with two of the upcoming phones. Apparently a microSD card slot is only present on the Pro model. That would be a break with tradition for Samsung, as expandable storage support has long been a mainstay of its flagship phones. The Galaxy S10 phones can take up to 512GB of the stuff. Get ready for the launch of iOS 13The Galaxy Note 10 could have camera upgradesThe latest on the Google Pixel 4Admittedly the standard Note 10 will no doubt come with plenty of internal storage on board, but having the option to expand it is always useful. About that headphone jack...Weinbach's tweets also weigh in on the continuing saga over headphone jack support in the Galaxy Note 10. Depending on which sources you believe, the Note 10 will have or maybe won't have a 3.5mm audio port. According to these latest leaks, the headphone jack is being retained on both the Note 10 and the Note 10 Pro, so you can carry on using your old wired headphones as usual (or invest in a new pair without having to switch to USB-C or wireless). This will be the first year that Samsung launches a Pro edition of the Note alongside the standard model – if the rumors are accurate. The multi-model strategy has worked for the Galaxy S series, so Samsung is apparently keen to expand it. Based on previous Note launches, we should see the new phones appearing sometime in August, bringing with them some speed and camera boosts over the 2018 model. As always, we'll bring you the news as it's made official. Check out the latest Samsung Galaxy Note 10 renders hereVia SamMobile http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/D9b7c03Je6Q
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The Huawei Mate 20 X (5G) will be the second 5G phone to go on sale in the UAE after the ZTE Axon 10 Pro. Huawei hasn’t announced the pricing on the phone just yet but it is expected to go on sale in the UAE next month. The phone is expected to work on both Etisalat and du's 5G network. The Huawei Mate 20 X (5G) is almost identical to the Mate 20 X launched towards the end of 2018. The massive 7.2-inch screen is great for gaming and the 5G version supports 40W supercharging which could come in handy depending on what the impact of a 5G network is on the phone. We will update this article once Huawei releases a more accurate date or pricing on the Huawei Mate 20 (5g) Huawei Mate 20X reviewhttp://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/s2cv3Y0A03M
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As we count down the days until Gears 5's September release date, The Coalition has announced some more details around how players will be able to earn new content and items as they play. In a blog post on the official Gears 5 site, which puts an emphasis on creating a "player-first experience", it's been confirmed that DLC maps for the game will all be free in both matchmaking and private play, meaning you won't be excluded from playing with friends just because you don't have the right maps. Something else of interest to players is a new Tour of Duty system, which will offer a way to earn new customization content such as character skins. This system, which essentially sounds like a free battle pass, will introduce daily challenges and seasonal medals which, when completed, will unlock cosmetic items. These items and challenges will change with each season to keep things fresh. Earn your contentIt will, according to The Coalition, be clear to players what's required of them to unlock the items they want and this system won't feature any kind of premium, paid content. Another way to unlock new items for free (at least in monetary terms) will be to simply play the game thanks to Supply Drops. Every moment of play across Gears 5's multiplayer modes will contribute towards you earning a random item from a designated Supply pool. This pool of items is apparently unique and nothing in it can be purchased using real-world money. If you get a duplicate item, it'll automatically be scrapped and you'll be able to use the remnants to craft items or apply some skill upgrades. That's not to say Gears 5 is utterly bereft of purchasable items. The game will have its own currency called Iron, which can be purchased with your real-world money as well as picked up in limited amounts through Tour of Duty. Iron will allow players to buy exclusive cosmetic items in the in-game store, but to keep things fair all of these purchases will be direct (so no Gear Packs or random generations) and none of the items will give players any kind of competitive advantage in the game. You can, however, spend your Iron on a Boost which will offer "accelerated progression for a period of real-world time" which could last for a single day or a whole week. Boost will provide double multiplayer XP, double character player XP in Escape and Horde modes and double speed Supply Drop progression. It's worth noting that this doesn't mean you'll get Supply Drops faster than anyone else, as a representative for The Coalition has said on Reddit that these drops are "based on time" therefore aren't boostable, just as "XP has no impact on content". It's yet to be confirmed how much Iron will be required to purchase Boosts. Hopefully the sums dropped in Tour of Duty will be enough to cover a couple of purchases to give players a taster. Overall, the changes seem like positive steps for Gears 5 and will go some way to assuaging pay-to-win concerns of those thinking about picking up the game when it launches in September. The Coalition is promising to share more information about the game before that launch date so keep an eye out. Everything we know about Gears 5http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/techradar/digital-home/~4/XLOFGKWJFas