I belatedly switched back to my Google Pixel 9 Pro XL this past weekend, after hemming and hawing for over a month. The reasons I delayed doing so are many, but the result was painfully and immediately familiar, an unwelcome reminder of an age-old problem that echoes across the other personal technology products and services I rely on.
There is no perfect phone.
If there was, I’d just use that. It’s that simple. I can rationalize my switching between iPhone and Android as a requirement of my job, which is as much a lifestyle as it is a career. And there’s some truth to that. But I know many people who do what I do, and most of them seem content to stick with one or the other platform, barely giving any thought to ever switching. Or, more commonly, never thinking about it at all. They’ve made their choice and they’re done.
That sounds nice. But rationalizing further, my inability to land on a single phone platform and make it stick is both good and bad. I can be viewed through an emotional lens, and there’s a bit of that. But this is more logical than anything, because you have to consider the broader ecosystems to which each device belongs. I made the point recently that our smartphones are no longer at the center of anything from a decision-making perspective, because the most important factor that goes into this isn’t any one thing, it’s the whole thing, if that makes sense. It’s like getting married. You’re not just getting a spouse, you’re getting all the baggage that goes along with that person, from their families and friends to their life experiences. It’s a package deal, not a one-off.
It’s complicated, and, for me, this switch is always accompanied by a nearly immediate sense of regret. You gain some things, as each platform is better at certain things than the other. But you also lose some things, for the same reason. How the pros and cons stack up varies by person, of course. But for me, it’s always a toss-up, a gray area in which the flowchart doesn’t land at an obvious outcome.
There’s little point in trying to list all the issues. Plus, some come up over time, and others are just minor problems that seem to become bigger problems over time. But a few obvious examples should suffice. Starting with what is absolutely a “me” problem. 🫤 And, yes, it is a “me” problem I’m in Mexico. I’ve been in Mexico for three months now, and I’ve got less than three weeks to go. I use Google Fi, and I’ve not heard a peep from Google about me being outside the country for so long. I’ve heard worrying stories from others who have been warned about this, including a friend who was here in Mexico City for a few months recently.
I have a theory about why my extended stay hasn’t triggered any alarm bells at Fi, and it has to do with cell networks: Fi uses a network called Movistar in Mexico City, and in my neighborhood, at least, Movistar is garbage. I suffered with it for a few weeks, but I’ve been using Airalo eSIMs since the…
The Samsung Galaxy A56 is a versatile and feature-packed smartphone designed to enhance your daily life. With its advanced camera system, seamless multitasking capabilities, and extensive customization options, this device caters to a wide range of users. Whether you’re passionate about photography, focused on productivity, or enjoy personalizing your device, the Galaxy A56 offers tools and features to meet your needs. By exploring its functionalities, you can maximize your experience and make the most of this powerful smartphone. The video below from Hayls World gives us a range of great tips for the Samsung Galaxy A56.
Enhance Your Photography
The Galaxy A56 is equipped with a robust 50MP camera, allowing you to capture sharp, detailed, and vibrant images. To ensure consistent results, adjust your camera settings to save preferences, such as allowing Pro Mode or specific filters. For a personalized touch, create custom filters by replicating the tones and colors of your favorite photos, giving your gallery a cohesive aesthetic.
One standout feature is the object eraser tool, which allows you to remove unwanted elements from your photos with precision. This is especially useful for cleaning up backgrounds or eliminating distractions. Additionally, the motion photos feature captures short video clips alongside your images, allowing you to select the perfect frame for group selfies or action shots. These tools empower you to elevate your photography skills and create stunning visuals effortlessly.
Streamline Media Controls
Managing your media is seamless with the Galaxy A56’s intuitive controls. The “Now Bar” feature provides full-screen media controls, even when your phone is locked. This allows you to adjust playback, skip tracks, or pause videos without unlocking your device. Whether you’re streaming music, navigating with Google Maps, or watching videos on YouTube, the Now Bar ensures uninterrupted control.
Additionally, media controls are accessible directly from the notification bar, making multitasking more efficient. You can switch between apps, adjust volume, or manage playback without disrupting your workflow. These features simplify media management, making sure a smooth and convenient user experience.
Boost Productivity with Recommended Apps
The Galaxy A56 supports a variety of apps designed to enhance productivity and streamline your daily tasks. Here are some top recommendations to consider:
LocalSend: Share files seamlessly between devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network, eliminating the need for external servers or internet connectivity.
Link to Windows: Sync your Galaxy A56 with a Windows PC to manage calls, share files, and even control your phone remotely from your computer.
SurfShark VPN: Protect your privacy, access region-specific content, and enjoy built-in antivirus protection for a secure browsing experience.
These apps not only improve productivity but also enhance security and connectivity, making it easier to work across devices and networks.
Customize Your Device
The Galaxy A56 offers extensive customization options to tailor your device to your preferences. The “Modes and Routines” feature allows you to automate tasks based on your habits. For instance, you can set your phone to enable battery-saving mode during specific hours or automatically silence notifications while you’re at work.
Other customization tools include:
Edge Lighting Effects: Add dynamic visual effects to notifications and fingerprint unlocks for a personalized touch.
Upgraded Widgets: Access more intuitive and adaptive widgets, making navigation and information retrieval smoother.
Adaptive Motion Settings: Enhance the responsiveness of your device, making sure a fluid and seamless user experience.
These features allow you to create a device that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Master Gesture Controls
Gesture-based controls on the Galaxy A56 simplify navigation and improve efficiency. These intuitive gestures make everyday tasks faster and more convenient. Here are some useful gestures to explore:
Song Identification: Long-press the home button to identify songs playing in the background, eliminating the need for third-party apps.
Partial Screenshots: Draw around a specific area of the screen to capture only the content you need, saving time and effort.
Drag-and-Drop: Move multiple images or files directly into apps like WhatsApp or email for quick sharing.
By mastering these gestures, you can navigate your device more efficiently and complete tasks with ease.
Advanced Personalization with Good Lock
For users seeking deeper customization, the Good Lock app is an essential tool. This app provides advanced options to modify your device’s appearance and functionality. With Good Lock, you can:
Personalize the keyboard with unique effects, colors, and sounds to match your style.
Redesign the volume bar’s layout and size for a more user-friendly interface.
Customize the overall interface, including the lock screen, notification panel, and task manager.
Good Lock enables you to transform your Galaxy A56 into a truly personalized device, offering unparalleled control over its design and usability.
Optimize Your Display
The Galaxy A56 features a 120Hz adaptive display, which adjusts the refresh rate based on your activity. This ensures smoother scrolling, enhanced responsiveness, and an overall improved visual experience. Whether you’re gaming, browsing, or watching videos, the adaptive display delivers fluid performance while optimizing battery life.
To enable this feature, navigate to the display settings and activate the adaptive refresh rate. This setting is particularly beneficial for gamers and heavy users, as it balances performance with energy efficiency, making sure a premium experience without compromising battery longevity.
Explore the Full Capabilities of Your Galaxy A56
The Samsung Galaxy A56 is a powerful and adaptable device that caters to a wide range of needs. By using its advanced camera features, intuitive media controls, and extensive customization options, you can unlock its full potential. Whether you’re focused on enhancing productivity, personalizing your device, or optimizing performance, the Galaxy A56 provides the tools and features to elevate your experience. Dive into its capabilities and transform your smartphone into a personalized powerhouse that seamlessly integrates into your daily life.
Check out more relevant guides from our extensive collection on Samsung Galaxy A56 tips that you might find useful.
Source & Image Credit: Hayls World
Filed Under: Gadgets News
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Our smartphones have become an extension of ourselves. Whether it’s for work, entertainment, video calls, or even following a recipe in the kitchen, we rely on them constantly. But how often do you find yourself craning your neck, propping your phone up awkwardly, or struggling to get the perfect angle? It’s a small frustration that adds up over time, leaving us yearning for a simple, elegant solution that doesn’t just work but works beautifully. That’s where the Majextand S comes in—a phone stand that’s as sleek as it is functional, designed to make your everyday interactions with your device more comfortable and effortless.
Imagine a phone stand that’s not just portable but practically invisible when folded, one that adjusts to your needs without compromising on stability or style. The Majextand S takes the hassle out of using your phone, offering an ultra-slim, lightweight, and durable design that’s packed with thoughtful features. From 360-degree adjustability to seamless MagSafe compatibility, this stand is built to enhance your experience, whether you’re working, relaxing, or multitasking.
Majextand S: A Sleek and Functional Phone Stand
Early bird supporter pledges are now available for the innovational project from roughly $33 or £27 (depending on current exchange rates), offering a considerable discount of approximately 40% off the retail pricing, while the Kickstarter crowd funding is under way.
Key Specifications :
360-degree adjustability with tilt options for ergonomic viewing and reduced neck strain.
Durable stainless steel construction with a robust truss structure for stability on uneven surfaces.
Lightweight and portable design, weighing just 56 grams, with a collapsible, flat-folding form.
Seamless compatibility with MagSafe accessories and wireless charging, supporting a wide range of smartphones.
Sleek, minimalist design that complements high-end smartphones and enhances workspace aesthetics.
The Majextand S is a phone stand that combines functionality, durability, and a minimalist design, catering to the needs of modern smartphone users. This ultra-slim and lightweight accessory is engineered to enhance your interaction with your device, whether you are working, relaxing, or multitasking. Its thoughtful design prioritizes both practicality and aesthetics, making it a versatile addition to your daily routine.
If and when the Majextand S campaign successfully raises its required pledge goal and manufacturing progresses smoothly, worldwide shipping is expected to take place sometime around August 2025. To learn more about the Majextand S phone stand project glimpse the promotional video below.
360-Degree Adjustability for Ergonomic Use
One of the standout features of the Majextand S is its 360-degree adjustability, allowing you to position your phone at virtually any angle. This flexibility ensures a comfortable and ergonomic viewing experience, whether you are on a video call, streaming content, or following step-by-step instructions like recipes. The stand can elevate your phone up to 15 centimeters, helping to reduce neck strain and promote better posture during extended use. Its seamless rotation and tilt options make it adaptable to various tasks, making sure that your device remains accessible and easy to view.
Durable and Portable Design
The Majextand S is constructed from stainless steel, featuring a robust truss structure that provides stability even on uneven surfaces. Despite its sturdy build, the stand is remarkably lightweight, weighing only 56 grams (2 ounces). Its collapsible design folds flat, making it easy to slip into a bag or pocket without adding unnecessary bulk. This combination of durability, portability, and convenience makes it a reliable companion for both home and travel.
Key specifications include:
Material: Stainless steel with a truss structure for stability
Weight: 56 grams (2 ounces)
Height adjustment: Up to 15 centimeters
360-degree rotation and tilt functionality
Collapsible, ultra-slim design for portability
Seamless Compatibility and Magnetic Support
The Majextand S is designed to integrate seamlessly with MagSafe accessories, allowing you to securely attach your phone using magnetic support. This feature ensures compatibility with wireless charging, so you can power up your device without removing it from the stand. Additionally, the stand works with a wide range of smartphones, including those with built-in magnetic support or magnetic cases, making it a versatile choice for various devices.
Minimalist Aesthetic and Versatile Applications
Beyond its practical features, the Majextand S is crafted with a sleek and minimalist aesthetic that complements the premium design of high-end smartphones. Its slim profile and attention to detail make it a stylish addition to any workspace or living area. Whether for professional use or casual activities, the stand blends seamlessly into your environment, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal.
The versatility of the Majextand S further distinguishes it. It adapts effortlessly to different scenarios, from hands-free video calls to creative tasks like photo editing or sketching. Its stability ensures that your phone remains secure, even on uneven surfaces or during movement, making it suitable for a variety of settings.
The Majextand S offers a thoughtful balance of innovative design and practical features, meeting the demands of today’s smartphone users. Its adjustability, durability, portability, and compatibility make it a well-rounded accessory for enhancing your daily interactions with your device. Whether you prioritize functionality, aesthetics, or both, the Majextand S delivers a seamless blend of form and function.
For a complete list of all available project pledges, stretch goals, extra media and product specifications for the phone stand, jump over to the official Majextand S crowd funding campaign page by following the link below.
Source : Kickstarter
Disclaimer: Participating in crowd funding campaigns such as those found on Kickstarter and Indiegogo, involves inherent risks. While many projects successfully meet their goals, others may fail to deliver due to numerous challenges. Always conduct thorough research and exercise caution when pledging your hard-earned money.
Filed Under: Gadgets News, Top News
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Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
A few weeks back I wrote about some experimentation I was doing with my smartphone and iPad home screens. Since then, I enabled the Screen Time feature in iOS and was curious to see whether my ideas about my actual daily usage matched what I was literally doing. iPhone Screen Time feels a bit like a nanny state feature, and an unnecessary one at that, so I had originally disabled it. But for the past three weeks, it’s given me a report each Monday on which apps I use most often and for how long. And that’s useful for this effort. I may keep it enabled going forward, if only to see whether usage changes over time.
One caveat here. I’m in Mexico right now, and that means there are some apps–like Google Maps and Uber–that I use more often now that I do when I’m home. I travel enough that I’ve been dealing with this sort of thing for years. For example, when I fly, I will pin the United Airlines app to my home screen for quick access on the travel day, but then I unpin it when I arrived at my destination. Likewise, I usually have Google Maps on my home screen, but I only pin Uber there when I’m away (work or pleasure). I don’t use it when I’m home in Pennsylvania.
This morning’s Screen Time report on my iPhone pretty much corresponds to my understanding of how I use the device. The five most often used apps, in order, are Messages, Duolingo, Instagram, Facebook, Edge, and Outlook, and each is something I’ve always pinned on the home page. (Edge could be whatever web browser, and I used Gmail, not Outlook, in the past.)
I spend at least 20 to 30 minutes each day in Duolingo, sometimes more, and I suspect that is actually the app I use the most on my iPhone. We used Messages a lot this week because the kids were here, and there were a lot of messages Sunday, the day they flew home. The previous week, my top five apps were Instagram, Duolingo, Camera, Messages, and Facebook, for example. The week before that it was Instagram, Duolingo, Facebook, Camera, and Messages. So there’s a trend of sorts there, I guess. Skewed partially by us being in Mexico, where I do take and share more photos.
But that’s all good. I’ve always pinned all those apps to my home screen. So I at least got that right.
One thing I did change before seeing this report was to move Messages back out to the home screen–I had temporarily put it in a Chat folder to see whether that made a difference–and not just to the home screen, but to the Dock. So now my iPhone home screen layout looks like so.
Ignoring Uber, there are five icons directly available on this home screen, plus the four Dock icons, which are available on all home screens. That said, I only use the one, so there are nine icons, and the top five I use regularly are all accounted for. The others are Google Photos, which I’m surprised never made the top 5, and Google Maps. But I like having those there.
I’ve gone back and forth on folders, in part because I actually like the iPhone’s App …
Life moves fast, and keeping up with your grooming routine can sometimes feel like an afterthought. Whether you’re rushing to a meeting, packing light for a trip, or just trying to simplify your daily routine, finding a grooming tool that’s as versatile and on-the-go as you are can be a fantastic option. That’s where the TinyEdge pocket shaver steps in. Compact, efficient, and cleverly designed, this little device promises to make grooming effortless, no matter where life takes you.
Imagine having a shaver so small it fits in your pocket, yet powerful enough to handle everything from a quick beard trim to nose hair touch-ups. The TinyEdge isn’t just about convenience—it’s about rethinking how we approach grooming altogether. With its battery-free operation, durable titanium blades, and waterproof design, it tackles the everyday challenges of personal care with ease. Whether you’re tired of lugging around bulky gadgets or constantly worrying about dead batteries, this innovative tool offers a fresh, no-fuss solution.
The TinyEdge Pocket Shaver: Compact and Efficient Grooming
Early bird backing offers are now available for the inventive project from roughly $69 or £55 (depending on current exchange rates), offering a considerable discount of approximately 36% off the normal retail price, while the Kickstarter crowd funding is under way.
Key Specifications :
Compact and lightweight design (68 grams) for easy portability, ideal for travel or daily use.
Battery-free operation with Type-C connection for power from smartphones, power banks, or laptops.
Titanium blades with 7,000 RPM high-speed motor and 0.07mm mesh for precise, irritation-free shaving.
IPX7 waterproof rating, magnetic assembly, and easy cleaning for versatile wet or dry shaving.
Includes NFC functionality and doubles as a nose hair trimmer for added convenience and innovation.
The TinyEdge pocket shaver provides a compact, durable, and efficient solution for modern grooming needs. Designed with portability and practicality in mind, this device caters to individuals seeking convenience without compromising on performance. Whether at home, traveling, or on the go, the TinyEdge delivers a seamless grooming experience through its thoughtful design and advanced features.
If and when the TinyEdge campaign successfully raises its required pledge goal and the project progresses smoothly, worldwide shipping is expected to take place sometime around April 2025. To learn more about the TinyEdge tiny pocket shaver that attaches to your phone for power project browse the promotional video below.
Weighing just 68 grams and smaller than most headsets, the TinyEdge is exceptionally lightweight and easy to carry. Its minimalist design allows it to fit effortlessly into a pocket or bag, making it an ideal companion for travel or daily commutes. Despite its small size, the shaver features a sturdy, integrated body that combines durability with a sleek, unobtrusive appearance. This balance of portability and reliability makes it a practical choice for those who value efficiency in their grooming tools.
Innovative Power and Blade Technology
One of the standout features of the TinyEdge is its battery-free operation. Instead of relying on traditional rechargeable batteries, it uses a Type-C connection to draw power directly from devices such as smartphones, power banks, or laptops. This plug-and-play functionality eliminates concerns about battery life or carrying additional chargers. Whether you’re in a rush or packing light, the TinyEdge ensures a hassle-free grooming experience, always ready to perform when needed.
The device is equipped with titanium blades, known for their durability and resistance to rust. These blades maintain sharpness over time, making sure a precise and comfortable shave. Paired with a high-speed motor capable of 7,000 revolutions per minute, the TinyEdge delivers smooth and efficient results. Its 0.07mm mesh ensures close contact with the skin, minimizing irritation and enhancing the overall shaving experience. Additionally, the shaver doubles as a nose hair trimmer, adding versatility to its functionality and making it a comprehensive tool for personal grooming.
Ease of Use and Practical Features
The TinyEdge is designed with user convenience in mind. Its magnetic structure allows for quick assembly and disassembly, simplifying maintenance. The device’s IPX7 waterproof rating ensures safe operation in wet conditions, making it suitable for both wet and dry shaving preferences. Cleaning is straightforward—simply rinse the shaver under running water. An automatic sharpening mechanism further enhances its practicality by maintaining blade performance over time, reducing the need for frequent replacements and making sure consistent results.
Modern Integration and Versatility
The inclusion of NFC functionality adds a modern touch, allowing the shaver to pair with compatible gadgets for additional features or settings. This integration reflects the TinyEdge’s commitment to innovation and adaptability. Whether preparing for a meeting, navigating airport security, or freshening up during a long day, the shaver adapts to various scenarios with ease and reliability.
The TinyEdge pocket shaver combines compact design, durable construction, and advanced technology to offer a versatile and dependable grooming solution. With its portability, innovative features, and user-friendly design, the TinyEdge ensures you can maintain a polished appearance wherever life takes you.
For a complete list of all available early bird specials, stretch goals, extra media and advanced features for the tiny pocket shaver that attaches to your phone for power, jump over to the official TinyEdge crowd funding campaign page by proceeding to the link below.
Source : Kickstarter
Disclaimer: Participating in crowd funding campaigns such as those found on Kickstarter and Indiegogo, involves inherent risks. While many projects successfully meet their goals, others may fail to deliver due to numerous challenges. Always conduct thorough research and exercise caution when pledging your hard-earned money.
Filed Under: Gadgets News, Top News
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
I may be a little too obsessed when it comes to efficiency. But I configure my PCs, tablets, and smartphones uniquely and consistently, with each optimized for the apps I use most often. Well, that’s the goal. But my phone’s home screen doesn’t really reflect this ideal, and so I’ve started experimenting.
If you think about these devices, each offers what I think of as primary and secondary ways to launch apps, at a high level, though there are usually even more methods. Perhaps not surprisingly, I try to configure each so that the apps I use most frequently are easily accessible at all times. Windows Windows users can launch apps from the Taskbar, Start, Search, via shortcuts on the Desktop and elsewhere, and any other number of ways. I routinely launch winver with the legacy Run dialog, for example, and if you use PowerToys, you may be familiar with, and prefer, PowerToys Run.
Everyone is different. But I use the Taskbar to launch those apps I use the most often. That means I remove the superfluous Search and Task view items, as I don’t use them and/or can use keyboard shortcuts to access those functions. I remove pre-pinned shortcuts for apps I don’t use. And I pin, from left to right, shortcuts for File Explorer, Edge or whatever web browser I’m using at the moment, Typora, Visual Studio Code, Notepad, Notion, Affinity Photo 2, Paint, and Slack. These are the apps I literally use every day.
I use the Start menu sparingly, and so I don’t bother too much with customizing it. My ADHD is strong enough that I do remove or uninstall pinned apps I will never use, especially the crapware or whatever that Microsoft (LinkedIn, etc.) and PC makers put there. And I remove enough pinned apps that they all fit on the menu without needing to scroll. I do add a Visual Studio shortcut there on all my PCs. And I’ve been adding a Call of Duty shortcut on those PCs I use for games. But that’s about it. Aside from Visual Studio, the apps I access most often from Start are Clipchamp, Microsoft Store, Settings, and Xbox in no particular order.
For the other apps I need to run from time-to-time, I use Search: I tap the Windows key on the keyboard and start typing. To run Discord, for example, I would just type disc and then tap Enter, since the Discord search result will be highlighted at that point. Writing that out was a bit strange, as I do this unthinkingly now. It just happens.
Put simply, the Taskbar is my primary way of launching apps in Windows. And some combination of Start and Search, and the random use of Run, is collectively my secondary way of launching apps. That’s the division, between continuously throughout the day and sometimes. As a desktop platform, Windows is used primarily for work, or for what many now call creation, and the apps I use–and the way I access them–reflect that. iPad The tablet I use–which means whatever iPad I’m currently using–is optimized differently. Here, too, everyone is different, but h…
