Google Pixel 8 Pro first look and impressions

For several years now I have been using the Google Pixel devices and there is always one in my hand no ter what else I am testing or using they have been a staple device for me and this year is the first year I have gone with the pro even though it is bigger the size of phones for me was getting out of hand and with the Pixel 8 Pro I have become custom to the bigger size again and now loving it.

The look and feel of the device is as expected from Google with lots of new features making it a production tool and much more and  the design language is the same as before which is nothing new these days and I am fine with this. The back of the device has the traditional camera bar and nice texture on the back and the bar stands out and makes a statement and better looking that the rounded camera hump offerings in my opinion.

The keys on the side are placed well being a bigger phone and I have big hands so this would suit me better obviously and the keys are tactile and work well and of course with biometrics better this year you have face unlock and the under display fingerprint unlock which now is better and more functional with the face unlock on the Pixel 8 Pro.

So asides all the aesthetic looks for the Pixel 8 Pro the device feels solid looks solid and not to cumbersome in the hand and for me ideal for media consumption too amongst all the other AI features now baked into it.

We only have the device a few days so our full review will be up soon but we have been testing it out to the max the last few days we do have it and have some image and video samples attached below and we take a tour of the device and so far even so early in the review process which realistically takes more than a few days I am super impressed with what you get for you hard earned money and being my daily driver now it has been fast with good battery life it must be said so far being a power user and i have loaded it with all my apps and over time we will see how it gets on but for now it is dam good.

Need some cases for your Pixel 8 Pro see the official ones here

 

Unboxing and walkthrough of the Google Pixel 8 Pro 

 

10 Things to Know About Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro

 

1 – Featuring the new Google Tensor G3 processor, it brings Google AI to help you do more throughout your day. With a fully upgraded pro-level triple rear camera system including a 5x telephoto lens and groundbreaking editing features, every photo and video is stunning. Its high resolution 6.7-inch Super Actua display is brighter than ever and intelligently adjusts between 1 and 120Hz for responsive performance and power efficiency. And for the first time ever in a Pixel, it features a thermometer.

Quickly get the temperature of objects like beverages and cookwarexnig  by simply scanning them with your Pixel 8 Pro. Pixel 8 Pro starts at 1099 euro. It’s available in Bay, Porcelain, and Obsidian.

2 –  Pixel 8. Powerful in every way. Helpful every day. Meet Pixel 8. The helpful phone engineered by Google, with upgraded rear cameras, powerful security, and an all-day battery.1 It has the new Google Tensor G3, Pixel’s most powerful chip yet, and Google AI to help you do more throughout your day.2  With stunning image quality and groundbreaking editing features, you’ll want to share every photo and video. And Pixel 8’s 6.2-inch Actua display delivers sharp colors and vivid details, with an improved refresh rate of up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and gaming.

3 – Beautifully crafted. Durable by design. Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro both feature fresh, modern designs with softer silhouettes, new finishes, and stylish new colors. Pixel 8 Pro is crafted with a polished aluminum frame and, for the first time on a pro Pixel, matte back glass. Pixel 8’s smaller form features a satin metal frame and polished back glass. Both phones are made with recycled materials. With their durable design and IP68 protection, the phones can handle slips, spills, and dust.

Both displays are immersive, with slim, symmetrical bezels, and are scratch resistant: Pixel 8 Pro features Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2, and Pixel 8 is built with Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus.®

4 – Google Tensor G3: the power behind Google AI on Pixel. Google Tensor G3 is Pixel’s most powerful chip yet, and brings the latest in Google AI to the Pixel 8 phones. Since Google Tensor was introduced with Pixel 6, its AI capabilities have dramatically increased – the biggest machine learning model on Pixel 8 is 10X more complex compared to Pixel 6. So you get even more of the cutting-edge photo and video features that Pixel is known for, and new, smarter ways to get things done throughout your day.1 With the help of Tensor G3, Pixel’s Call Screen can now detect and filter out even more spam calls.2

Plus, Tensor G3’s advanced image processing and next-generation design bring Google AI innovations to more areas, like
audio and video quality. Improved Clear Calling gives you high-definition crystal clear phone calls, and Audio Magic Eraser lets you erase distracting sounds from videos.

5 –  The Pixel 8 Pro camera. Pixel’s best camera yet. The Pixel 8 Pro camera system includes fully upgraded pro-level cameras for better low-light photos, sharper selfies, and Pixel’s best zoom and video yet. Coming soon, Pixel’s new Video Boost technology will deliver HDR+ and enhanced color grading for professional-looking videos, plus Night Sight Video for the first time ever. Pro controls enable advanced camera settings and high-resolution photography. And new features like Magic Editor,Best Take, and Audio Magic Eraser let you perfect any photo or video.

Night samples

 

6 – The Pixel 8 camera. Amazing photos and videos, every time. The upgraded rear Pixel 8 camera has advanced image processing to reveal vivid colors and striking details in almost any light. Now with Macro Focus, the smallest subjects can become spectacular images. And you can take your group photos to the next level with Best Take, which combines similar pictures into one where everyone looks their best. Plus, features like Audio Magic Eraser for video and Magic Editor for photos let you capture every moment just how you want to remember it..

7 –  7 years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates. Pixel phones are engineered to last and get better over time. With your Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro, you’ll receive the latest OS and security updates for 7 years, and new, helpful features with Feature Drops every few months.

8 –  Security you can depend on. With Google Tensor G3 and the Titan M2 security chip, both Pixel 8 phones are built
with multiple layers of security to help keep your personal info safe. And they come with VPN by Google One built in to help protect your online activity no matter what app or web browser you use. You can also use Face Unlock for more things, like app sign-ins and payments, thanks to Tensor’s advanced machine learning. And Pixel now comes with 7 years of security updates, so it keeps getting more secure over time.

9 –  Save time and do more with Google Assistant. Google Assistant helps you do even more on Pixel. You can now ask Assistant to summarize, read aloud, and translate web pages. Using Google AI, Assistant can paraphrase what’s on your screen into key points. Assistant voice typing lets you write messages twice as fast with your voice and now lets you type, edit, and send
messages in multiple languages seamlessly.Google Assistant also understands more natural conversation and can pick up on pauses and “um”s, so you can speak at your own pace. And At a Glance shows more useful info right on your screen, like travel updates, event tickets, and more.

10 –  Help making calls. And avoiding them. Phone calls are easier with Pixel Call Assist, a set of features that help with everything from making calls to avoiding them. Google Assistant can now detect and filter out even more spam calls. If you’re too busy to pick up, Pixel can tell you who’s calling and why. Pixel also features a more realistic-sounding Assistant to engage with callers more naturally. And with improved Clear Calling, Pixel reduces your caller’s background noise – so you can hear them more clearly.

See more on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro

Day samples

Skullcandy DIME 3 First Look Hands On

The Skullcandy DIME 3 just got announced recently and just when you think the DIME 2 where small you would think could they get any smaller, well they can by the looks of things and it is great to see, while the case itself is smaller the earbuds themselves look fractionally smaller but nonetheless it is a nice discreet pair of earbuds that are still packed with features at an affordable price and runs alongside their recent releases the RAIL and SMOKIN BUDS we just reviewed.

Any questions on the DIME 3 ask us and we will answer and stay tuned for lots of really cool tech reviews on the way and on the run up to Christmas.

 

Skullcandy DIME 3 earbuds – techbuzzireland

 

  • 20 Hours of Battery Life + Rapid Charge: Enjoy up to 8 hours of battery life in the earbuds and an additional 12 hours in the charging case, ensuring extended listening sessions without interruptions.
  • IPX4 Sweat and Water Resistance: Fearlessly embark on any adventure without worrying about sweat or water damaging your earbuds.
  • Multipoint Pairing: Seamlessly connect to two devices at once, regardless of platform or manufacturer.
  • Skullcandy Supreme Sound: Unique audio-tuning process enhances sound depth and detail, providing an exceptional listening experience.
  • Stay-Aware Mode: Stay connected to your surroundings without removing an earbud.
  • Built-In Tile™ Finding Technology: Easily locate misplaced earbuds using the Tile app.
  • Clear Voice Smart Mic: Enjoy crystal-clear calls with reduced background noise.
  • Preset EQ Modes: Select your preferred EQ mode for music, bass boost, or podcasts.
  • Full Suite of Media Controls on the Buds: Manage calls, change tracks, adjust volume controls, and activate native device assistants (Google, Siri, etc.) without touching your phone.
  • Integrated Lanyard Loop: Secure portability that protects the charge case and earbuds from accidental drops.
  • Noise-Isolating Fit: Ergonomically redesigned ear gels provide all-day comfort.
  • Microphones in Each Bud: Use either earbud individually without sacrificing call functionality.

Price: £34.99 – Buy the Dime 3’s here!

Unboxing Video

First Look FUJIFILM INSTAX Pal – A Palm-sized digital camera

The latest offering from INSTAX has just dropped and knowing the brand so well over the years they are right when they say it is a first of its kind, it is tiny and the smallest camera I have used, Today we give you a first look at the cute little thing and while we test it out feel free to ask any questions on our channels and stay tuned for a full review in the coming weeks.

The pocket-sized digital camera allows you to easily take pictures with one hand, and the wide-angle lens  makes it perfect for group photos. But the exciting features don’t stop there.

Remote Shooting using the dedicated smartphone app enables users to be part of the picture. The app allows users to check the composition of the image via their smartphone before taking  the photo with the INSTAX Pal.

Interval Shooting allows the user to take continuous shots at 3-second intervals, which can then be edited in the app to choose the best shot.

INSTAX Animation combines multiple images into a single video similar to a flipbook. If the user  prints the INSTAX Animation, it becomes an INSTAX print with QR code. Scan the QR code to  play the video.

[Link] Mode lets users connect the INSTAX Pal directly to their INSTAX Link series printer via  Bluetooth. Then, just like our other instant cameras, the images automatically print out  immediately after they are taken.

Multi-use detachable ring can be used as a handy strap, as a simple viewfinder and as a camera  stand when remote shooting.

Additionally, personal audio can be recorded and set as the camera’s Pre-shutter sound, creating a  moment of personalization for every user. The INSTAX Pal is available in 5 colors: Milky White, Powder  Pink, Pistachio Green, Lavender Blue, and Gem Black. An INSTAX Pal Design Silicone Case in five  colors and a new mini film, “Soft Lavender,” will also be available at launch.

Pricing and Availability: 

Fujifilm’s INSTAX Pal digital camera will be available to purchase at Fujifilm stockist’s nationwide at a  manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 100.00 (incl. VAT) for Milky White, Powder Pink, Pistachio  Green, Lavender Blue versions and EUR 120.00 (incl. VAT) for the Gem Black version. It is expected to  be available for purchase on 5 October 2023. For more product information, visit  https://www.instax.ie/instax-pal/

 

UNBOXING VIDEO

Apple Watch Ultra 2 and iPhone 15 Pro first look

The latest and greatest from Apple is now here and in short what he have is some slight speck bumps and some new features, the new iPhone 15 pro is the phone of choice for us and the devices are now made with titanium and the feel of the phone in hand is much better than last years iteration and feels much lighter to hold in the nad and has a nice feel to the rear of the device.

The Watch 2 however was said to come in a Black colour this year which I would have preferred and there is literally no difference to the look of the device this year and there is some new features to arrive on it soon which is an odd move from Apple.

We will be doing many reviews in the coming weeks for cases and accessories for both the Watch and Phone and have many in the works now so if you have any accessories and cases etc do let us know and if you have any questions on the products themselves do get in touch.

Watch Ultra 2 link  Apple iPhone 15 Pro link

First Look – SoundMAGIC P60BT ANC headphones

The SoundMAGIC P60BT ANC headphones have just landed in for review and this is a company that has redefined the budget audio category for headphones and earphones. With early releases such as the multi award-winning E10 and E11 wired earphones, SoundMAGIC quickly became synonymous with value. Later, with award-winning Bluetooth models including the E11BT earphones, TWS50 true wireless earbuds and P23BT portable wireless headphones – SoundMAGIC’s reputation for affordable, high-quality gear was fully cemented.
Over the next week or two we will be putting the latest cans to the test from the company and look forward to doing so and if you have any questions in the interim as always feel free to ask and you can find us on our social channels linked above and of course YouTube
The P60BT has been developed to deliver premium audio and features in an affordable package. 40mm custom made drivers deliver a dynamic sound, tuned for maximum engagement and clarity in a way that SoundMAGIC is best known for. The design of the headphones ensures a comfortable and fatigue-free fit, with soft memory foam earpads, and the headband covered with a soft silicone coating chosen by SoundMAGIC for its durability – especially when compared to the more typical PU leather material used on most headphone models.
The P60BT can be used in one of three modes: Normal, ANC and Ambient. The Hybrid ANC technology uses internal and external microphones to reduce a wider range of frequencies when compared to standard ANC. With Ambient mode selected, ambient awareness is increased and users are able to hear their surroundings without having to remove the headphones. aptX HD compatibility as well as AAC and SBC means that users will get the best audio quality delivered from their device. And aptX Low Latency provides gamers with lightning speed wireless audio so they won’t miss a thing.
Get the most out of the P60BT for longer with up to 50 hours of playback from a fully charged battery, and up to 45 hours with ANC activated. Users can also make the most of the quick-charge feature when needed, and get an additional 5 hours of playtime from just 10 minutes of charging. A USB-C cable is supplied in the box.
Bluetooth Technology: Bluetooth 5.2
Driver: 40mm Dynamic, Neodymium
Codec Support: aptX, aptX HD, AAC, SBC
Transmission Range: Up to 15m
Playtime: Up to 50h
Playtime with ANC: Up to 45h
Battery: 800mAh Li-ion Polymer
The SoundMAGIC P60BT is available now from Amazon and selected retailers worldwide for £99.99/$189.96/€149.

First Look – Poly Voyager Surround 80 UC Premium BT Headset

The new Poly Voyager Surround 80 UC empowers employees to focus and sound their best with immersive rich audio and adaptive ANC. It is the first boomless headset certified for Microsoft Teams Open Office due to its outstanding performance in noisy environments. The Bluetooth enterprise headset offers a sleek design for complete comfort, featuring soft ear cushions and an adjustable headband for an ultralight fit. Users can stay in command with up to 21 hours of talk time, convenient on-ear controls, and smart sensors for automatic call answering and 40 mm drivers.

Now in for review we will be testing these out over the next few weeks so if you have any questions feel free to ask on any of our channels and we will answer as always, packed with features these over-ear headphones actually has 6 mics so not a word will be missed and certified for Microsoft teams and have gesture control with adaptive ANC, you can connect your mobile or laptop and for the laptop there is an adapter just in case and software to download to take more control.

Features

  • Adaptive ANC and over-the-ear design
  • 6 microphones for clear transmit audio
  • Up to 21 hours of talk time
  • Intuitive touch controls for calls and music

Stay tuned for more.

See more

Unboxing Video

 

 

 

First look – Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 and Watch 6 classic 47mm

The latest tech from Samsung is now hitting the shops and this time around it is the latest flips phone foldable phone and watches, samsung have been a leader in the flip and fold department over the years but the competition is now heating up from other known brands and I was was personally going to go with the latest Motorola flip phone which knocks on samsungs door on the cover display, speaking of the cover display on first noticing you have a lack of apps that can be placed on it,which is stupid in my book lets be honest here, they have had a tiny display on the cover for years and this time comes up with an almost full display and limit it.

There is workarounds though which is handy enough to implement and by going to the Samsung store you get the apps called good lock and multistar and this enables you to add what you like on the cover screen but it should not have to be this way so hopefully there will be an easier way with an update later on from them.

Having used the device with the Watch 6 the last few days so far so good bar some notifications not hitting the watch, the watch itself is nice and for me the bigger the watch the better and it is certainly getting attention along with the Flip5 as people have asked me about both and seen my typing and scrolling on the cover screen when the device is closed.

Check out the unboxing of both devices below and a walkthrough of the Flip5 and if you have any questions feel free to hit me up.

Unboxing and walkthrough

First Look – EDIFIER TWS1 Pro 2 earbuds

The latest from EDIFIER has dropped in to be tested out and it is the new Edifier TWS1 Pro 2 earbuds packed with features and app connection for small money and an update to the TSW1 earbuds which we tested back in 2021, you can see that review here.

We have the White version here and they do look super clean and has a glossy finish to them and look well out of the box and we look forward to seeing how much things have changed over the last two years, the cost to performance ratio has come down over the years yet Edifier still always maintained to deliver great audio products regardless at any price point.

With ANC, wear detection, ultra low latency and app connection we look forward to testing the latest out and if you have any questions feel free to let us know as ususal.

 

Main Features:

    • Long Battery Life. Around 4 hours music playtime with ANC ON with 12 hours charging case. A total 16 hours playtime.
    • Active noise cancellation with 2 levels of ANC selection and multiple ANC modes is designed to reduce unwanted background noise in various environments.
    • Clear call quality. Built-in microphone to ensure high quality calls.
    • Wear Detection. Music will pause automatically when taken out of your ear and will start playing once you place them back in.
    • Ultra-low latency connection with seamless experience on gaming activities.
    • Edifier Connect App. Unlock all the features through APP: customize control setting and EQ selection (Classic/POP/Classical/Rock).
  • Dust proof and splash proof for active wear. IP54 certified.

Price & Availability:

The Edifier TWS1 Pro 2 is available for £49.99 from https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C7L1KJRQ

Unboxing and first look 

First Look – Creative Zen Air DOT

Creative recently announced another super affordable set of earbuds called the Zen Air DOT which come in at 30 quid at the time of publishing,now that is cheap however creative do not do cheap things and you expect cheap result from my testing over the years so it will be interesting to see how these fair out under my strict earbuds test regime.

The Creative Zen Air DOT boasts custom-tuned 13 mm Neodymium drivers that deliver powerful and detailed audio with deep bass, clear mids, and highs, ensuring that users will experience great audio with every beat. Together with Bluetooth® 5.3 technology and a battery life of up to 24 hours (7 hours on a single charge), users can enjoy uninterrupted audio throughout the day, making them the perfect companion for daily commutes, workouts, or travel. Moreover, the IPX4 rating offers water protection, making them suitable for intense workouts and outdoor activities.

We will have our full review soon so if you have any questions feel free to ask and we will gladly answer as always and stay tuned for the real hands on review later on.

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Unboxing Video