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Android’s upgraded operating system is finally beginning roll-out and there’s a plethora of reasons to be excited! Android 10 will begin with Pixel users in the upcoming days, whilst other manufacturers look likely to follow suit within the next few weeks and/or months. If you have a Google Pixel phone, then make sure you’re keeping an eye out for updates; head to your device’s Settings > System > Advanced > System Update and follow the cues. Android 10 comes with a really refreshed feel, featuring a new logo, branding and is the first Android system to come without a dessert-inspired code name.  This is claimed to be more fitting for a global audience and we’re sure has absolutely nothing to do with the problems of finding a Q-named dessert! Sadly, if your Android device is over 2 years old or has already had more than 2 big updates then you may not be eligible. But for those that are, this is what you might expect! Shop Android devices!   Android 10’s New Features Live Captioning! Utilising Google’s speech recognition tech, Android 10 comes with an all-new Live Caption feature that can automatically caption the media you’re engaging with on your phone. Whether it’s an audio message or video – even those that you’ve recorded yourself – AI smarts will capture everything that’s spoken. Crucially, you don’t even need WiFi or data for this to work, since Live Caption is processed entirely on your device. So, this is perfect for those who may be hard-of-hearing or for those that want to engage with media with the sound muted and in a loud environment.   Smart Reply Assistance! If you already have an Android device, then you’re probably accustomed to your smartphone handily suggesting certain responses to your received messages. But with Android 10, you’ll also get recommended actions. So, if your friend messages to meet for a coffee, not only will your Android device predict a response, but it will also open Google Maps to give you directions. Clever, right? Even better, Smart Reply is said to work with all your most popular messaging apps; including WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger!   Google’s New Dark Theme! Dark Mode (or Night Mode) is such a fantastic tool to take away from the glare from your phone. And Android 10 utilises a ‘true black’ within their new dark theme that also helps to keep your device charged for longer. Vitally, Google has confirmed that all their first-party apps will support this. HOWEVER, there’s always a slight catch; not all of these managed to hit the deadline for Android’s big launch. But it’s certainly something that sounds worth the wait. Indeed, Google has also made a new API for third-party app developers, so that these apps can also utilise Google’s dark theme when activated.   Enjoy New Gestures! It may not be for everyone, but Android 10 comes crafted with full support for gesture-controls. These are said to help with ease of navigation, particularly with the increasing number of smartphones that are fitted with edge-to-edge displays. Moreover, all apps are expected to support the new gesture controls of Android 10. If you’re not a fan, then these controls are optional. Indeed, you can switch back to the standard three-button array as well as the two-button system that was found on Android Pie. Gestures: Swipe up: Go home / overview screen Swipe up at home screen: Access app drawer Swipe across bottom: Switch between apps Swipe down: Quick settings / notifications Swipe from sides: Go Back Swipe diagonally: Open Google Assistant   Avoid Distraction with Focus Mode! In line with improvements to ‘Digital Wellbeing’, Android 10 also benefits from ‘Focus Mode’ that aids against distraction from all those notifications, buzzes and beeps. This can be accessed within your device’s Settings tab and allows you to choose the apps that you would like to be paused whilst Focus Mode is activated.  Switch this on and you will still receive notifications for the applications that are vital to you. Simply toggle Focus Mode on or off and all those pesky distractions are gone!   Benefit from Project Mainline! ‘Project Mainline’ is arguably one of the most crucial updates to Android 10 and yet you will barely even notice that it’s there. This essentially works to allow Google to issue vital security updates through their Play Store, rather than waiting for networks and other manufacturers to. What is worth noting, is that Project Mainline will only be supported by devices that ship with Android 10 by default.   Benefit from Greater Privacy! One of the greatest upgrades of Android 10 is the ability to have greater control over what your downloaded apps have access to. Apps such as Facebook and Instagram that generally ask to track your location can now be altered to track your location all of the time, when your app is in use or not at all. In comparison, previous versions of Android only gave you the option to track constantly or never. Alongside this, amended Settings controls allow you to track and edit the access that each application is enabling, whilst Privacy controls give greater regulation over web and app history. So too, your apps won’t be able to access unique IMEI codes or serial numbers.   New Theming Options! The vast array of customisation options is an element of Android that makes it so fantastic; and Android 10 pushes this even further. Indeed, Android’s new system comes with theming options that allow you tinker with the accent colour of your device. Change to Black, Green, Purple, Cinnamon, Ocean, Space and Orchid as and when you fancy.     Android Devices from Clove Technology Google Pixel 3a Google’s hugely popular Pixel 3a brings the exceptional Pixel photography experience to a greater number of people, headlining Google’s mid-range handset. The 12.2MP dual-pixel camera is capable of industry-leading results, as the depth of field editor really brings out the colour and focus of images, giving a more professional look. Google’s ‘Night Sight’ is also critically acclaimed, enabling you to snap photos rich in colour and detail even in the dark. The 5.6-inch Full HD OLED display is the perfect way to marvel over your creations, or to enjoy inspiration from all of the latest social clips.   Google Pixel 3a | £430.80 inc-VAT Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus Samsung’s Note 10 Plus is a true flagship powerhouse, with a vast 6.8-inch Infinity-O display that bursts with rich, vivid colour and detail. Media playback is a truly breathtaking experience, whilst an edge-to-edge display gives even more flexibility for multi-tasking; a compact design for big ideas. But if that still isn’t enough, with DeX you can connect to a monitor with ease, giving a PC-like experience that helps you put all of those ideas into fruition. The Note 10 range is all about productivity and Samsung’s latest S-Pen allows you to control your device from across the room, with  just a touch of a button.   Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus | £999 inc-VAT   Motorola One Zoom With a quad-rear camera setup and a stunning Max Vision u-notch display, the Motorola One Zoom offers high-end specifications at a mid-range price. Consisting of 48MP + 16MP + 8MP + 5MP sensors, the One Zoom combines a telephoto lens, wide angle lens and depth sensor to ensure that you can snap the perfect shot in any situation. A Hi-Res optical zoom gives you the ability to get close to your subjects without losing image quality and Night Vision mode means you face no restrictions by light. For amateur filmmakers, there’s also Time Lapse with Hyper Lapse and Slow-Motion abilities available, along with video capture at up to 4K Ultra HD.   Motorola One Zoom | £376 inc-VAT

  Boasting an impressive 6.1-inch FullHD+ display, coupled with Dolby Atmos surround sound, the Sony Xperia 5 is a dream for media lover’s alike. A triple-lens rear camera setup takes some breath-taking images, whilst Cinema Pro gives budding filmmakers access to professional colour management and 4K HDR recording. If all of this sounds great to you, then you may just have one question left. Is the Sony Xperia 5 waterproof? The Sony Xperia 5 comes with an IP65/68 certification for water resistance. This means protection from low-pressure jet spray as well as from the effects of immersion in water at depths of over 1 metre. The Sony Xperia 5 is shipping from Clove Technology for £582.50 ex-VAT. Sony Xperia 5 | £699 inc-VAT   What is an IP rating and what does this mean for the Sony Xperia 5? An IP rating is an international standard used to define levels of sealing effectiveness of electrical enclosures against intrusion from foreign bodies (such as dirt and dust) and moisture. These ratings are presented in the form of ‘IP’ (Ingress Protection), followed by two numbers; for example, IP65. The first of these numbers refers to protection against solids and ranges from 1 to 6, with the higher the number, the better the protection. For example, ‘1’ indicates protection against solid objects over 50mm, whilst a ‘6’ rating indicates that a device is dust tight. The second number refers to protection from liquids and ranges from 1 to 8. Again, the higher the number, the better the protection that the device is offered. 0 – no protection1 – protected against dripping water2 – protected against dripping water up to 15-degrees from the vertical3 – protected against spraying water4 – protected against splashing water5 – protected against low-pressure water jet spray for at least 3 minutes6 – protected against heavy jet spray for at least 3 minutes7 – protected against the effects of immersion in up to 1 metre of water for 30 minutes8 – protected against the effects of continued immersion in water at depths greater than 1 metre Just because a device has been certified with a rating of 8, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it has passed the required tests for the levels below it. As such, when a device has an IP65/68 rating as the Sony Xperia 5 does, this means that it can withstand both a certain amount of spray as well as immersion under water. In this instance, the Xperia 5 is:a) ‘Protected against low-pressure jet spray for at least 3 minutes’, and,b) ‘Protected against the effects of continued immersion in water at depths greater than 1 metre’   Is the Sony Xperia 5 protected in all wet situations? Despite this IP65/68 certification, it’s vital to remember that all these tests are performed using fresh water and therefore does not consider many other day-to-day situations. Saltwater in particular can have a critical effect on smartphone devices and is often corrosive; damaging circuit boards within the device as well as damaging outer seals. Similarly, chlorinated water in swimming pools and spilled soft drinks contain chemical substances that are not accounted for during testing. Indeed, Sony themselves have recognised this and state that the Xperia 5 should not be put completely underwater, or exposed ‘to seawater, salt-water, chlorinated water or liquids such as drink’. Testing for the IP certification of Sony phones is undertaken ‘inside a container filled with tap water and lowered to a depth of 1.5 metres. After 30 minutes in the container, the device is gently taken out and its function and features are tested.’ It’s important to note that these tests are performed with a device in standby mode. This means that you shouldn’t anticipate being able to physically use your phone underwater, such as for taking photographs. Further, in doing so, improper use will invalidate any warranty that you have for the device. Sony Xperia 5 | £699 inc-VAT   Is the Sony Xperia 5 worth it? In line with the spirit of previous Sony devices, the Xperia 5 is truly a media lover’s dream. An impressive 6.1-inch FullHD+ 21:9 HDR OLED display is perfect for watching videos or looking back at photos. Couple this with Dolby ATMOS surround sound and you can appreciate a fully immersive cinematic experience. If you prefer your own media creations, then the triple-lens camera is set for every need; consisting of a 12MP 16mm super-wide-angle lens, a versatile 12MP 26mm lens and a 12MP 52mm portrait and telephoto lens. SteadyShot allows you to capture the best picture every time, no matter the conditions, light or subject, whilst Eye AF makes it possible to lock onto subjects instantly with precision Autofocus technology. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 855 processor offers exceptional performance and speeds, even when dealing with gaming and power intensive apps. This is aided by 6GB of RAM, 128GB of internal storage and support for a microSD card up to 512GB.   Sony Xperia 5 Key Features Android 9.0 (Pie) Slim symmetrical design Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 1” FHD+ 21:9 CinemaWide display Triple Lens Rear Camera; 12MP + 12MP + 12MP Eye Autofocus / SteadyShot / BIONZ X for Mobile Dolby Atmos / Hi-Res Audio / DSEE HX 128GB internal storage & 6GB RAM; microSD support up to 512GB IP65/68 rating Corning Gorilla Glass 6 Sony Xperia 5 | £699 inc-VAT  

Palm are back, and this time with a shrunken offering that is crafted to ‘help you focus on what really matters in life’. This was first designed as a companion to your main smartphone, in an attempt to detach users from their mobile devices. But the Palm phone is now also available as a stand-alone device, which begs the question; is something so small really practical in day-to-day life?     What do you get in the box? Palm smartphone device Product Safety Information Quick Start Guide USB Type-C cable SIM card ejector Wall adapter   Design & Display Being such an incredibly small device, Palm has marketed this as the ideal smartphone for those looking to detach from their main device or for those with active lifestyles. The Palm is about the size of a credit card and is probably even small enough to slide into a wallet. Indeed, at 3.8-inches tall and 2-inches wide (or 50.6 x 96.6 x 7.4mm), and weighing 62.5 grams overall, it’s probably quite easy to misplace! In use, the display is significantly better quality than we were ever anticipating, as the 3.3-inch LCD panel has a pixel density of 445, giving pretty impressive contrast and great colours. It also delivers 398 nits of peak brightness so has been usable on the odd sunny day here in the UK. Further display specs include a pixel resolution of 1280 x 720, a 16:9 aspect ratio and overall a 61% screen to body ratio. As said before, it has been commented on how similar the Palm looks to an iPhone, but we really like it. The frame is made from crafted billet aluminium and it actually feels pretty sturdy as well as being sleek. There isn’t any room for anything but the power button and charging port and the silver trim is very smart, particularly around the camera. 50.6 x 96.6 x 7.4mm 62.5 grams 3.3-inch LCD display 398 nits peak brightness 1280 x 720 16:9 aspect ratio 61% screen-to-body ratio Crafted billet aluminium frame   Camera Just a single lens adorns the rear of the Palm phone; a 12MP sensor with AutoFocus and LED flash. Photos are probably about what you’d expect, colour reproduction isn’t half bad but you’re definitely losing the crispness that you’re all-but guaranteed with a flagship. You can also probably imagine that viewing back your pictures on the Palm isn’t the best experience! Video recording on the move is passable, with the Palm recording video at 720p @ 30fps. There’s also an 8MP selfie camera that takes some respectable selfies and enables an impressively quick face unlock. 12MP rear camera Autofocus and LED flash Video recording 720p @ 30fps 8MP selfie camera Face unlock Performance Indeed, the Palm runs Android 8.1 however changes have been made to make it work better on a smaller screen. In line with its goal to detach users from the digital world, the Palm comes with ‘Life Mode’ which alleviates distraction by silencing all notifications when the screen is off. They will then beep and flash for your attention again when you wake your screen. As an Android device, you get a number of customisation options including setting up folders and moving icons in your home screen around to suit your preferences. Google Assistant is accessed by double-pressing the side button, whilst Google Play Store allows you install just about any Android App that you can think of. Qualcomm’s 435 processor is also included, as well as 32GB of internal storage and 3GB RAM. As expected, apps do load a little slower than your standard device, but it’s never going to be the device for those regularly using power intensive apps. Alongside this, the battery is only 800mAh which does run down quickly. But Palm claim that you can reach a 50% charge at 31 minutes and 100% at 68 minutes. Alongside this, the Palm device has an IP68 certification for dust and water resistance, withstanding depths of 1m for up to 30 minutes. It’s as rugged as it is elegant, and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 helps to protect from everyday bumps and bruises. Android 8.1 ‘Life Mode’ silences all notifications Google Assistant & Google Play Store Qualcomm 435 32GB & 3GB RAM 800mAh battery IP68 certification Gorilla Glass 3  

Samsung Galaxy S4 against the S4 Mini – What’s the difference? The Galaxy S3 and S3 Mini have been 2 exceptionally popular handsets that millions own.  With their predecessors having been on the market for approximately 18 months, the S4 and S4 Mini are now available and in place to be the successors to the S3 double act. With the Galaxy S3 series there were significant differences between the two. This story continues with the S4 & S4 Mini, but what are those differences? In this hands-on we look to find out and help you make the decision as to which handset is for you as there are some advantages and disadvantages to both.   Main differences at a glance: Display – The S4 Mini is smaller and packs less of a punch. Processor – Not a lot in it but the S4 is for the ‘power’ user. RAM – The S4 Mini can not handle multi-tasking to quite the same extent as the S4 with .5 GB less RAM & with the dual-core processor. Memory – Both suffer with a lack of it but the S4 Mini doesn’t have as much to offer. Camera – If its all about the megapixels, then the S4 has 5 more. Connectivity – The S4 takes the top spot thanks to MHL 2.0 Battery – The S4 Mini lacks the additional 700mAh of the S4. Size & Weight – The S4 Mini is more pocketable and lighter. Software – The S4 has more features, but many would see them as gimmicky. Click one of the following to be taken to a full written comparison or continue reading for the full story: Processor, RAM, memory, camera, connectivity, battery, size, software, conclusion, spec comparison,  Video Please note – Different models/variants of the each are released globally and would impact your decision.  This comparison is based on the SIM-free Samsung Galaxy S4 GT-I9505 and the SIM-free S4 Mini GT-I9195 which are the most popular within the UK market. Display The Samsung Galaxy S4 has the larger display of the two phones with a size of 4.99” diagonal compared to the S4 Mini’s 4.3”. As a result the resolution and PPI of the 2 screen differ.  The S4 Mini has a 256ppi with a resolution of 960 x 540 against the 441ppi and 1920 x 1080 full HD display of the the standard S4. Both use Samsung’s Super AMOLED displays however. With the S4 capable of full HD quality playback there is without doubt a compelling argument to be the victor here, but the S4 Mini is still a very respectable screen that out performs a lot of the competition from the likes of Sony and HTC. Side by side the difference is noticeable, the blue on the S4 (on the left) is deeper and richer. The question you need to ask yourself here is do you require full HD on your mobile?  When replying to emails, text messages and browsing a few web pages the answer is likely no, but if you are into your movies then maybe?! Whilst the additional screen size is beneficial, the knock-on effect is portability and power drain, both of which we shall discuss in more detail later. What is up for debate too is at 4.3”, is the S4 Mini really so mini? The S3 Mini has a 4” display against the S3’s 4.8”, this gap has reduced by 0.1” to 0.7” between the S4 Mini and S4, but the S3 Mini screen certainly in my opinion is more deserving of the mini moniker at 4”. Processor This is where the differences get serious, it’s a 1.7Ghz dual-core against a 1.9Ghz quad-core. Both the S4 & S4 Mini have gained more speed since the S3 series which is a positive if you are ready to upgrade to either of these devices. Quad-core really does offer advantages when it comes to mobile gaming and serious multi-tasking.  If you are a ‘power’ user who loves to play intense games on mobiles (not just Temple Run or Candy Crush) then the S4 will have serious advantages. The S4 Mini is still very capable and for the vast majority of users who are wishing to text, email, play some video and even the occasional game then you do not require the full quad-core capabilities and many apps do not even utilise the 4 cores of the S4. Without doubt the quad-core processor will ensure you are slightly more future-proofed but many devices still run single cores and all Nokia Lumia devices are running no more than dual-core so it is clear whilst there is an argument for quad-core power, it is more advantageous than essential. Our testing revealed when under more demanding loads, the S4 Mini was slower to react and respond, but the differences were not great and unless you compare side by side then you will not really notice in under ‘normal’ use. RAM At just 500MB or .5GB between the two, the S4 has 2GB of RAM compared to the 1.5GB on the S4 Mini. With 1.5GB the S4 Mini responded well and boasts more memory than some competing devices, but as the RAM is closely linked with the processing capabilities we did find that the S4 performed better with the additional available address space. With this said, if you do find the S4 Mini slowing down, then a bit of careful app management (closing running apps) can seriously help. Memory Without doubt the biggest bone of contention for many people, and one that will never be right for everyone, is the available storage space. As you may expect, the S4 Mini has less memory built in than the S4. With 16GB of internal storage on the S4 compared to the 8GB on the S4 Mini, the S4 takes the lead.  However as has been widely documented, the OS on the S4 takes up a lot of space and users are left with 9GB (approx.) out of the box compared to the 5GB on the Mini. Therefore the Mini actually has a better usable memory ratio but does lack some of the software features. Samsung are addressing the S4 available storage with updates to optimise apps to use less space and allowing certain apps to be moved to the microSD card slot. Both devices have external storage capabilities but if memory is particularly important then this little extra on the S4 could be a big issue for you. Music, images, video & documents can be stored on microSD cards on both devices, whilst apps do have to go onto the internal memory. The S4 software update will allow some apps to go onto the microSD card, but this will not be possible for all. If you use music streaming services then you can retain a lot of the memory, but if you store any of the content offline, this will eat up the internal memory as it can not be stored /saved on the memory card, so do consider this. Whilst it is difficult to quantify what is average, if you are into gaming then the S4 will definitely be better due to the extra space, whereas if games are not important then the S4 Mini could be the answer. Some of the newer more advanced games often take up a lot of memory. If you are unsure, take a look at the settings within your current smartphone and see how much memory you are using. Here is a screenshot of my personal memory situation on my S4.  I have around 30 apps (no big games) and some music stored offline and I have around 2GB available.  (This is after the S4 software update). Camera If it is a battle of the megapixels then the S4 wins hands down with a 13 megapixel sensor against the 8 of the S4 Mini. However as we know, megapixels is often simply the size of the image, so that need not mean the S4 Mini suffers in terms of true image quality. Both have advanced camera apps and capabilities over and above the previous S3 models. Once launched into the camera application, the look and feel is almost identical with only a few small differences between the two that are possibly not that important. All is correct at the time of writing, but software updates are always taking place so things can change. Currently when in the app, you can record video and capture still images from the on-screen buttons that are present on both devices.  There is no need to flick between video and camera recording, just press the appropriate on-screen icon.  Even when recording video you can capture stills. Of the few differences between the two devices I observed was that the S4 offers more effects and scene styles for taking images (post capture image editing apps can also help with this). The S4 Mini does not have the ability to capture video and images from the front and rear camera at the same time, which is available on the S4; this ‘Dual Shot’ feature has been omitted. There is no slow or fast motion option on the Mini.  I’m not sure how many people are aware of or use this feature on the S4 (I never have). The S4 Mini also lacks the Eraser, Drama & Animated Photo shooting modes. Interestingly within the settings on the S4, there is the option for ‘Burst Shot’ but not on the Mini.  The S4 Mini however does have ‘Continuous Shooting’ as a mode which is effectively the same thing. Both have a limit of 20 images using this setting and take up to 3 per second. The reason for the difference is you can have Burst Shot kept switched on with the S4 whereas on the S4 Mini you have to go into the appropriate mode.  This means on the S4, one moment you could be capturing a nice still and the next a moving object without needing to change your shooting mode, like you would on the S4 Mini. Whilst the S4 Mini has an auto mode there is further control within the settings of the S4 that means the device can auto detect night or low light shots. It is nice to see that both shoot in full 1080p HD, but the S4 Mini lacks the video stabilisation of the S4 and the smaller sensor has an effect on the final video in my opinion.  The S4 is much better in this front. Neither device has a dedicated camera key, but both can have the volume key set as the control for capturing video or images or controlling the digital zoom, which is worth noting should be used only in a needs-must scenario.  The images very quickly become pixelated when zooming. Both devices have front facing cameras at 2MP on the S4 and 1.9MP on the Mini.  There is very little to speak of in differences between them. Here are a few sample shots taken with each device (click to enlarge). S4: S4 Mini:   From the above 2 images, the S4 represents more natural light and colour of the scene being shot, although the S4 Mini appears to handle the sunlight on the grass in the foreground of the image better. The grass is less overexposed, but the background is much more defined in the S4 image. Same location now with 4x Digital Zoom on the S4:   Same location now with 4x Digital Zoom on the S4 Mini: We can see from the above images how neither really handle the digital zoom very well and the S4 image looks very over exposed whilst the S4 Mini is under exposed. S4 : S4 Mini: With this close up of the palm tree trunk, both images are quite good and I would be happy with either.  The S4 wins with the depth and colour warmth which helps to give the image more depth and better defines the texture of the trunk. Overall the S4 does win for me in terms of the colour and depth of the images, but the S4 Mini are not bad by any means. Neither do a great job with the zoom so I would always advise avoiding this unless absolutely necessary. Connectivity When it comes to connectivity both devices are pretty extensive on this front.  Naturally they both have GSM, 3G and now 4G for mobile data connectivity. Both devices have Bluetooth 4.0, WiFi 802.11 b/g/n with support for 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks as well has having GPS, DLNA, NFC, microUSB, 3.5mm audio, Wi-Fi direct and tethering options. The only difference between the two in terms of connectivity is when it comes to video out. The S4 has support for the new MHL 2.0 standard where the S4 Mini does not support wired video out, just like the S3 Mini. The S4 Mini can share content to an HD display with Samsung’s AllShare Cast Dongle as can the S4, but this is more a expensive than the cable option (all be it with wires) that is available on the S4. You will also be able to connect to Samsung Smart TVs and any compatible PCs/laptops on a local network using Samsung Link software (utilising DLNA) on both devices. The S4 will work with the S3 MHL adapter and does not require power from the mains, but it is worth connecting to the mains due to the power draw of an HD display.   Battery There is a difference of 700mAh between the two devices and this is somewhat coincidently a 100mAh difference for every 0.1” extra in screen size that the S4 has. Battery life is always difficult to judge as it is based so much on an individual’s usage. Both should last a day, but may require a charge late in the day or overnight if used heavily, which is pretty much the norm now. Both devices have removable batteries so a spare can always be on standby. Overall the Mini is better on the power consumption and I can speak from personal experience with the S4 that many days I am left short of power come 6pm. If you are struggling for power, both have power saving modes that adjust the settings and performance of the device to maximise the potential life, which can be a real benefit. The S4 does have the added advantage of wireless charging, however expensive accessories are required to enable this.  There are cheaper 3rd party solutions available too, so going being able to go wireless is a nice touch. It is a small issue to mention that both, but more so the S4, can get quite hot after prolonged use. Not too hot to touch, but potentially a little uncomfortable. I found this most when downloading large amounts of data or being online for an extended time. Size & Weight As is to be expected, there is a significant difference in the overall size and weight. The bigger screen of the S4 has many obvious advantages but there are some disadvantages in terms of the overall usability, especially in one hand.  It can be a stretch, if not impossible for many to use the S4 one-handed, especially if you have small hands, whereas the S4 Mini is more practical and comfortable for this. As a direct result, the space and comfort in the pocket is won by the S4 Mini. The Mini is 124.6 x 61.3 x 8.94mm and 107g compared to 136.6 x 69.8 x 7.9 mm and 130g of its big brother. If you have ever used the Sony Xperia Z or Samsung Galaxy Note range of devices then the S4 will feel OK in your hand, and for current S3 users there is little noticeable difference. If moving up from the S3 Mini to the S4 Mini then the additional size is much more obvious. All told though, the minor increase in size and weight can be justified if you find the new S4 features desirable. Whilst there is not a lot to say about the designs as little has really changed since the last generation, I have yet to touch on them. All than can really be said is the Mini is just a smaller S4, they do look identical bar their size. Compared to the S3 & S3 Mini, they are both slightly less rounded at the corners and have moderately less chamfered edges. This makes for an overall squarer look, but both are still rounded enough to feel very comfortable in the hand. Both are available in Black & White colour options. Software As will be apparent if you have read the above the software has a few small differences, but not many. Both run Samsung customised versions of Google Android version 4.2.2. The slight differences come in the value added features that Samsung hyped up a lot in their original launch of the S4. Features excluded from the Mini are: LED Indicator – Ability to control the notification light All Air Gestures – Quick glance, air jump, air browse, air move, air call-accept Palm Motion to capture a screen shot Smart rotation, pause and scroll The following screen shots identify the differences. Samsung S4: Samsung S4 Mini: Conclusion Like the S3 and S3 Mini there is still an evident gap between the two devices that make it viable to bring the two separate versions to market to suit different people and budgets. Many of the features that are limited on the S4 Mini are often justifiable to make the Mini more cost-effective without too much compromise on power and functionality. It is without doubt the case that the S4 is the better device technically, at the sacrifice of its size. For many, whether buying SIM free from Clove or as part of a contract, the S4 is the more ‘desirable’ handset. Having been the owner of an S4 for several months I can say I am very happy with it. Although I rarely require all of its power and I probably could manage with the S4 Mini; I certainly prefer the size no questions about that. One doubt that always remains and always will do due to the way Samsung market their phones is that many will be missold the S4 Mini having heard or read about the features and benefits of the S4,  not realising some features are missing until it is too late.  The added advantages of the larger phone do come at a price. If you are due a contract upgrade from the S3 or the S3 Mini then there is definitely value in doing so. If you are not due an upgrade, then there is probably not enough reason or advantage in my opinion to do so at this time. Unless money allows for it and you your desire for the newest device available is greater than the need, I wouldn’t consider the upgrade justified by the price right now. If you are ready for an upgrade, or considering the S4 or S4 Mini as a new phone, the decision will ultimately be down to you and what is of most importance to you. Hopefully the above will have clearly identified the differences.  For more clarity check out our video and spec comparison below. Hands on comparison video You can see these two handsets compared in the flesh in the video below. [leadplayer_vid id=”521485A839EC2″] Samsung Galaxy S4 V S4 Mini spec comparison Watch the video or click the image below to see a quick comparison of the headline specifications of the Samsung Galaxy S4 against its smaller brother, the S4 Mini. For more information on the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini click HERE and HERE for the S4.

The official Samsung user manual for the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 Android tablet. Below is the official user guide for the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1. Click the icon to be taken to the manual.

  Connect your mobile device to an external display. SlimPort is a technology which so far hasn’t received widespread attention, but this is changing with the inclusion of the standard in the Google Nexus 4 & 5 and Nexus 6, as well as other devices like the LG G2. SlimPort uses a single cable to deliver high-definition audio and video from your smartphone, tablet or other mobile device, to a wide range of external displays, including projectors, PC monitors and HDTV’s. What this means really is that you can connect your mobile device to a display and see the exact same content on that display as you can on your mobile device. There are many scenarios in which this could be useful, including giving a presentation, sharing photos and videos with friends and family or playing games. Developed by Analogix to provide easy and convenient connection of devices equipped with micoUSB sockets to external displays, SlimPort is based on the VESA DisplayPort standard. However Analogix has cleverly combined functionality which would have traditionally used several cables into one which they call C-Wire.  This enables manufacturers to incorporate SlimPort into existing microUSB connectors.  With the result that display output, data and charging can be dealt with by one single connector. SlimPort has been designed to use virtually zero power, meaning that it will drain little power from your portable device; so you can view content on a large screen with the reassurance that you are not using any additional battery power, compared to normal viewing. What does this mean for the future of portable devices?   As a consumer you will be able to connect your portable device to large screens and enjoy high definition full 1080p video with 3D graphics and audio. Connecting your portable device to a large screen can be done without having to worry about unnecessary battery power drain. There is the possibility of connecting to a variety of display standards.  Making it easy to connect to a TV, monitor or projector bring more opportunities for viewing media content or providing presentations. Slimport uses Mobility DisplayPort, also known as MyDP and as such has support for 4K resolutions There are already 3 types of SlimPort adapters being offered: HDMI Adapter A microUSB connection at one end, which connects to the mobile device, with a HDMI port at the other.  A HDMI cable is then connected to the SlimPort adapter and the HD display. There is too a microUSB power connector should you wish to connect power to the device at the same time. VGA Adapter A microUSB connection at one end, which connects to the mobile device, with a VGA port connector at the other. A VGA cable is then connected to the SlimPort adapter and the VGA display. There is too a microUSB power connector should you wish to connect power to the device at the same time. HDMI/VGA Combo Adapter As the name implies, it is a combination of the 2 other cables.  A microUSB connection at one end, which connects to the mobile device and a HDMI and VGA port at the other. A VGA or HDMI cable is then connected to the SlimPort adapter and the the external display. There is too a microUSB power connector should you wish to connect power to the device at the same time.   The following video shows you a few scenarios in which using SlimPort could be useful or beneficial to yourself. If you want to find out more about SlimPort take a look at the Analogix website here or check out some FAQ’s below. FAQs: In what scenarios would I use SlimPort? There are a variety of scenarios where the use of SlimPort may be beneficial or useful. Examples include: Giving a presentation. The presentation is stored on your smartphone. You simply connect to a display to make for a better viewing experience for the viewers. Sharing photos and videos. The photos and videos are stored on your mobile device. You simply connect to a display to make for a better viewing experience for the viewers. Playing games. The games is on your mobile device, but you want to use a games controller and have a more comfortable setup. Connect the games controller to the mobile device via Bluetooth, connect the mobile device to a larger display.  Sit back comfortably and play the game without needing to hold the mobile device. Does my device have SlimPort? You will need to check your devices technical specifications.  Look at the manual, box or consult the manufacturer directly. Can I upgrade my device to have SlimPort? Your device either has the SlimPort technology built in or not.  It can not be added at a later date. If your device does have it, you simply need to connect the appropriate cables. What cables do I need? The cables required will depend on your setup.  You will need a SlimPort adapter, which connects into the mobile device.  These are currently available in 3 different options.  They are an HDMI only, VGA only or HDMI/VGA combo connector. An HDMI adapter can be used to connect your mobile device to a HD display, which a VGA adapter will allow connection to a display via VGA.  The combo solution allows either. You will then need a HDMI or VGA cable to connect between the adapter and the display. It is not essential but you may want to also connect a microUSB mains power supply to the adapter to keep your device powered.  Without it, the adapter draws next to no power, but connecting a power adapter will keep your device charged. Can I use the same cable with other devices? You can use a SlimPort cable only with compatible SlimPort devices.  If you have more than one SlimPort enabled device you can use the same adapter.  However 1 adapter can only ever be connected to 1 mobile device at one time. Do I need to connect a power adapter? It is not essential but you may want to also connect a microUSB mains power supply to the adapter to keep your device powered. Without it, the adapter draws next to no power, but connecting a power adapter will keep your device charged. What is the cost of SlimPort? The cost of SlimPort is broken into two parts.  The first is the cost of the mobile device itself.  This will either have SlimPort built into it or not.  The cost of the device will of course depend on what it is, its features, time of purchase etc. The adapter cable itself is relatively in-expensive, but perhaps more expansive than most other cables such as MicroUSB cables.  This is due to the technology built into the adapter and what it can do for you. Prices vary for the different types of adapters and of course from which supplier you obtain it. Where can I get the cable? There are a variety of outlets that sell the SlimPort cables, although it is unlikely to be available at your local electronics store.  It should be available from specialist suppliers, primarily online. Search the internet for the cable you require and appropriate suppliers will appear in the results. Is SlimPort the same as MHL? No, they are similar but different. They are two different standards that require different adapters to work with displays. The technology is evolving continually but primarily SlimPort outputs at a higher resolution and does not require power to be connected. It does too allow for devices to be connected via HDMI or VGA cables. MHL on the other hand outputs via HDMI only and normally requires power to be connected to work. MHL 2.0 standard does not require this, but draws considerably more power from the mobile device when power is not connected. We hope this article has been helpful to you. If you are thinking about purchasing a new phone or recycling one, we will be happy to help. You can find details about new phones at www.clove.co.uk Alternatively, if you wish to recycle one, please go to www.clove-recycling.co.uk  

Motorola Moto G (3rd Gen) User Guide Below you can find the digital version of the Moto G (3rd Gen) user manual. If you would like a printed version, please click here. With a large 5″ touchscreen, 8GB internal memory, microSD expansion slot, a 13 megapixel rear and 5 megapixel front camera and 4G connectivity, the Moto G 3rd Generation is Motorola’s mid range smartphone that has evolved considerably since the first model. When it comes to value for money in a smartphone the Moto G sets the standard. Hopefully the user manual will answer any of the outstanding questions that you have about the device, but if there is anything that isn’t covered or if you have any questions prior to purchasing, please feel free to ask in the comments or to contact our sales team.  

When it comes to smartphone photography, Google’s Pixel phones have generally been regarded as up with there with the very best. Relying largely on exceptional software capabilities, the Pixel 4 has added a heap of new strings to its bow; so, we took it out to see just what it can do. Google Pixel 4 | From £619.44 ex-VAT Specifications Before we take a look at the results, let’s first see what specs the Pixel 4 is packing. This is the first Pixel device with a dual-lens rear setup, consisting of the following: 12MP primary sensor, with an f/1.7 aperture, 77-degree FOV, OIS and a 27mm-equivalent focal lens 16MP secondary lens, with an f/2.4 aperture, 2x optical zoom, OIS and a 50-mm equivalent tele-lens. The Pixel 4 recently received a DXO Mark camera score of 112, making it one of the top ten devices in terms of smartphone photography; but do you agree?   Standard Shots Google utilises both lenses for a whole plethora of tasks, making use of the data by both for some great pictures in different conditions. AI-capabilities have long been at the heart of Pixel devices and this continues with the Pixel 4. Fast and accurate auto-focus ensures in-focus shots in all lighting, whilst colours in general are very lifelike and bold. We’ve been hugely impressed by the images that we’ve taken as even the most intricate of areas are sharp and importantly, you can shoot in photographer-friendly formats such as RAW.   HDR Photography The HDR capabilities of Pixel devices have always been impressive and the Pixel 4’s HDR+ capabilities are so quick that it can adjust in real time, rather than waiting for you to physically take the image and weaving exposures together. The HDR preview is pretty accurate and effectively keeps details from darker areas without losing the associated shadow. A new dual-exposure control is brilliant and allows you to manually adjust brightness and shadow brightness at the same time. The result is really effective and still retains all those important details.    Zoom Capabilities Google’s new telephoto lens gives you the option of 2x optical zoom which produces the quality imagery that you might expect. However Super Res Zoom, as seen on previous Pixel models, has also been included for magnification at up to 8 times.   This is entirely software powered and whilst other digital zoom techniques work by up scaling a crop of a single image, Super Res Zoom merges several frames into one high-resolution picture. The result is fantastic and significantly sharper than many other similar devices. Colours are still impressively lifelike and there’s still such a fantastic amount of detail.   Portrait Photography When taking portrait images with bokeh, the overall image quality is generally very good. With such smart software, these shots can be processed extremely quickly, which is vital when considering the fine margin between a blurred image and a fantastic shot. As expected, these smarts work most effectively when these is a clear edge to a subject, whilst the Pixel 4 is also able to add more natural blur to distant subjects. The lack of a dedicated depth-sensor does put it at a slight disadvantage, but on the whole, portrait photography on the Pixel 4 is very good with pleasant exposure and skin tone rendering.   Night Sight Mode & Astrophotography Google’s dedicated Night Sight Mode has won praise in previous Pixel devices and the results of the Pixel 4 are similarly outstanding. Night Sight has its own option within the camera app and works by taking several snaps of the same image. Indeed, if your device is still, more time will be spent capturing available light. If your Pixel 4 is moving or if there is movement within your scene, then AI smarts will use shorter exposures, capturing less light to minimise blur. The results are extraordinary, picking out fine details that can barely be spotted with the naked eye. Astrophotography Mode is however new to Pixel devices and captures the stars in a similar way, however, requires your Pixel 4 to be completely still. This is because it spends up to 4 minutes capturing sixteen 15-second exposures to capture maximum light, producing astrophotography that is usually only seen from DSLR. Here at Clove, we’re based in a town with significant light pollution, so the results were outstanding, all things considered.   Selfies If selfies are more up your street, then interestingly, the Google Pixel 4 has ditched the second front lens in favour of a single shooter. This is an 8MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture and a 22mm-equivalent focal lens. Whilst you may have lost the wider secondary lens of the Pixel 3, this lens is set to a 90-degree field of view, which is noticeably wider than the standard 70-degree so you should still be able to fit more people into shots. There are slight depth estimation errors when shooting within portrait mode that can tend to blur out the odd strand of hair or earlobe, but in general selfies are good with a wide dynamic range and true to life colouring. Video Moving onto video and the Google Pixel 4 is capable of shooting 4K video at only 30fps. Stabilisation is excellent thanks to a gyro-based stabilisation system, but colours aren’t as lifelike as you might see from other similar devices. If you’d rather shoot at 60 frames per second, then you’re looking at 1080p – which many might not necessarily notice the difference! If you want to shoot from the front camera, then this goes down further, shooting 1080p @ 30fps.   Google Pixel 4 | From £619.44 ex-VAT  

Now in its fourth generation, the Google Pixel continues to impress and evolve the possibilities of Android smartphones. With a host of new technologies, the Google Pixel 4 showcases the latest improvements to Android 10 as well as introducing us to Quick Gestures using Motion Sense for a new way to interact with your Pixel device. A 5.7-inch Smooth Display with a 90Hz refresh rate gives stunning visuals, allowing you to immerse yourself in the images that you snap with a best in class dual rear camera setup. Pre-order the Google Pixel 4   Google Pixel 4 Launch Date and Pricing The Google Pixel 4 will be launching globally on 25th October. We will be stocking the device in Just Black, Clearly White and Oh So Orange with 64GB or 128GB of internal storage and 6GB RAM. Google Pixel 4 – 64GB & 6GB RAM – Just Black / Clearly White / Oh So Orange: £619.44 ex-VAT Google Pixel 4 – 128GB & 6GB RAM – Just Black / Clearly White / Oh So Orange: £712.03 ex-VAT We are currently taking pre-orders for all variants of the Google Pixel 4. Stock will officially be available in the UK from Friday 25th October and we offer a number of delivery methods to the UK and globally. Pre-order the Google Pixel 4   Google Pixel 4 Key Specifications Ships with Android 10; guaranteed system and security updates for 3 years Motion Sense Quick Gesture control; navigate your Pixel 4 without touching it Dual Main Cameras with intelligent optical and electrical stabilisation 7” Full HD+ 19:9 P-OLED display with 90 Hz refresh rate UNLIMITED Google Photos storage Snapdragon 855 processor & 6GB RAM   Pre-order the Google Pixel 4   Google Pixel 4 Key Features Control it all with Motion Sense! Interact with your smartphone in a whole new way. Quick Gestures uses radar to sense your interactions. Wave to skip songs, answer calls, silence alarms and more; all without having to touch your Google Pixel 4. It’s even intelligent enough to power down when you walk away or turn on when you get close! Industry-Leading Camera Setup! Professional shots are now easy to snap in an instant, with a host of improvements to Google’s already highly lauded camera setup. The addition of a second camera lens means that portrait photography is now better than ever. Backgrounds are given an artistic blur, giving images a DSLR-like quality. Further, with ‘Frequent Faces’, your Pixel 4 will ensure that the subjects you photograph the most are always smiling and in focus. Improvements to Night Sight has removed the need for a flash, as rich and detailed colours are available even in low-light conditions. You’re now also able to adjust the exposure in separate parts of your photo for vivid colours, even within the images that you snap within your favourite apps!   Improvements to Google Assistant! Google Assistant is now more deeply integrated into all parts of the OS, giving you the ability to get more done with your voice. Fully control your phone and apps on the go, like finding and sharing photos and setting reminders. Just squeeze the sides of your Pixel 4 and the rest can be done with your voice.   Stunning Smooth Display! The 5.7” Smooth Display benefits from up to 90Hz refresh rate, meaning that colours are bold and bright as you navigate your way through apps and menus. The colour accuracy of the display is stunning, with a True Back level and HDR support; perfect for watching videos or looking back at all your industry-leading pictures!   Pre-order the Google Pixel 4  

Under the reboot of HMD Global, Nokia has produced a host of mid-range devices that have provided truly excellent value. The Nokia 7.1 was one of these and was massively popular last year, however the mid-range market is becoming increasingly crowded, with Samsung and Google taking a slice of the action with the Pixel 3a and S10e. So, how does Nokia’s latest recruit stack up against the increasing competition? Nokia 7.2 (2019) | £249.99 inc-VAT   Design & Display The Nokia brand is renowned for providing fantastic build quality and the Nokia 7.2 certainly follows suit. Its body is constructed from a polymer composite which HMD Global claims is half the weight of aluminium yet twice as strong as polycarbonate. At 180g it is pretty light but still feels sturdy in grip and the smooth matte glass on the rear is strangely soft. This is coated in 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass front and back for added protection. We really like both the overall look and feel of the Nokia 7.2, as overall dimensions of 159.9 x 75.2 x 8.3mm allow for one-handed use. The tear drop notch may not be to everyone’s liking, but this gives a great screen to body ratio for an immersive experience. Indeed, the display of the Nokia 7.2 is exceptional value and is a 6.3-inch Full HD PureDisplay, with a 1080 x 2280-pixel resolution at 401ppi. This so-called ‘PureDisplay’ tech, Nokia claims, is designed to ‘outperform OLED in many areas’, offering a 96% colour gamut, 1:4500 contrast ratio and great colour accuracy. The Nokia 7.2 also supports HDR content and natively converts SDR into HDR videos, giving incredible visuals. 6.3-inch Full HD PureDisplay 1080 x 2280 401ppi 96% colour gamut 1:4500 contrast ratio 159.9 x 75.2 x 8.3mm 180g 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass   Camera Photography is also where the Nokia 7.2 excels, coming with a triple rear camera setup with ZEISS optics. This consists of a 48MP main Samsung S5KGM1 sensor with an f/1.79 aperture, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens with an f/2.2 aperture and a 118-degree field of view, and a 5MP depth sensor for improved accuracy in portrait photography. General shots are very impressive, images are sharp and colour reproduction on the whole, is very good. Having a depth sensor and an ultra-wide-angle lens opens up a heap of new possibilities, but ultra-wide-mode in particular does have a slight drop in quality, losing some image sharpness. Portrait mode benefits greatly from a dedicated depth sensor, allowing you to make the subject the focus of an image with bokeh. A number of different blur modes are available, including Zeiss Swirl, Zeiss Smooth and Zeiss Modern. Alongside this, the Nokia 7.2 comes with a dedicated Night Mode, enhanced by onboard AI. This works by taking a number of exposures and weaving them all together for an improved final result. Indeed, the device can detect whether it’s being held or secured on a tripod and adjusts the number of exposures accordingly, from around 20 on a tripod to 8 if handheld. If selfies are more your thing, then the Nokia 7.2 comes with a 20MP front shooter with Beauty Mode which allows you to reduce pores and other unwanted imperfections. Images on the whole aren’t bad, but as expected are not comparable to the triple rear setup. This front camera also works for AI face unlock. Rounding things up, the Nokia 7.2 is capable of recording video in 4K @ 30fps, however this does not come with stabilisation. If you’re looking for the smoothness of EIS, then you will need to drop down to 1080p @ 30fps. Triple-lens rear setup 48MP S5KGM1 sensor, f/1.79 aperture 8MP ultra-wide, f/2.2 aperture, 118-degree field of view 5MP depth sensor 20MP front shooter with Beauty Mode 4K video recording @ 30fps 1080p @ 30fps with EIS   Performance Despite being a mid-range device, the performance of the Nokia 7.2 is similarly impressive, coming with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor coupled with 4GB RAM. If you’re more of a mid-weight user, then you shouldn’t experience too many lag issues when flicking through apps. This is helped by the near-stock version of Android 9 Pie. The Nokia 7.2 is enrolled in the Android One programme, so as well as having an easy interface, it promises regular updates and enhanced security. This should hopefully mean that the update to Android 10 is imminent since HMD Global have a proven track record of providing these upgrades ahead of other manufacturers.  HMD has also committed to two years of system updates and three years of security updates for all their devices. The 3,500mAh battery is also impressive for a device of this standing, giving around 2 days use. This is enhanced by AI-assisted Adaptive Battery that prioritises battery life to the apps to use. When it is time to recharge, the Nokia 7.2 supports Quick Charge 3.0 through a USB-C port. Rounding things off, there is a 3.5mm headphone jack as well as support for a microSD card. Despite being splash-proof, there is no IP-rating for water-resistance. Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 4GB RAM Android 9 Pie / Android One 3,500mAh battery 3.5mm headphone jack microSD support Nokia 7.2 (2019) | £249.99 inc-VAT

Samsung’s redesigned Galaxy Fold, is by far one of the most exciting devices of 2019. This is the first major foldable device to be released and is the product of over 8 years of research and development by Samsung, so it’s fair to say that this has been very high anticipated! Samsung Galaxy Fold | £2,200 ex-VAT    Fold & Display The Galaxy Fold brings all the benefits of a tablet and the best bits of having a compact and portable handset, making media playback an exceptionally immersive experience. When folded together, the device works as a more traditional smartphone with a front screen that’s responsive and well put together. This cover is actually a 4.6-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED display with the traditional 21:9 aspect ratio and as we’ve come to expect of Samsung devices, is bright and clear. Open it up and the Fold has a 7.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED ‘main’ display with a 1536 x 2152-pixel resolution at 362ppi. HDR10+ is also supported so colours and contrast ratios really are fantastic. Engaging with media is definitely our favourite aspect of the Galaxy Fold and Multi-Active Window allows you to run 3 apps at once on the main screen, in whichever size formats take your fancy. App Continuity is also brilliant and makes the transition from the cover screen to the main screen seamless. This API has also been made available to developers, so all major apps should support the transition from open to closed just as effortlessly. The movement from open to closed is actually a lot smoother than we had first anticipated. The hinge in the centre consists of multiple interlocking gears that are hidden inside an enclosure; maintaining the sleek silhouette that is in keeping with the overall. Samsung says that is designed to withstand more than 200,000 folds; which translates to about 100 a day for 5 years. Front display: 4.6″ Full HD+ Super AMOLED 21:9 aspect ratio Main display: 7.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED 1536 x 2152 362ppi HDR10+ support Multi-active window supports 3 apps at once App Continuity Withstands 200,000+ folds   Camera Now, Samsung’s folding display really isn’t just a gimmick because this is a flagship device through and through. Indeed, SIX cameras adorn the Galaxy Fold. The main camera setup is to the rear of the device and consists of three lenses working in tandem. The top lens is a 16MP ultra-wide-angle camera with an f/2.2 aperture and a 123-degree field of vision, next comes the 12MP sensor with Samsung’s famed f/1.5-f/2.4 dual aperture tech and OIS, and lastly a telephoto camera with an f/2.4 aperture and OIS. Final images are just as fabulous as you’d expect of a Samsung smartphone and Scene Optimiser is superb in automatically adjusting your camera settings for that perfect picture. The selfie camera is accessible when opening the device up and utilises a 10MP shooter coupled with an 8MP depth-sensing camera that provides the information for background blur within Live Focus Mode. Indeed, the dual front camera utilises AI smarts to detect faces, allowing you to experiment with blur and depth of field for what I think are some pretty decent selfies. If that wasn’t enough, then there’s also a 10MP exterior camera on the cover display which allows for more instant pictures. 6 camera lenses in total Triple lens setup on ‘main’ camera 16MP ultra-wide-angle, f/2.2 aperture, 123-degree FOV 12MP lens, f/1.5-f/2.4 dual aperture tech, OIS Telephoto lens, f/2.4 aperture, OIS Dual lens selfie camera 10MP lens 8MP depth-sensing camera Single 10MP lens on cover display   Performance A Qualcomm SDM855 Octa-core processor, coupled with 12GB RAM ensures that this is a premium device in all senses and Samsung’s OneUI is as smooth and sophisticated as ever. Whether the 4,380mAh battery gets you through the day depends entirely on how you plan on using the device. This comes packaged as two separate battery packs; one in each half and support fast charging and wireless charging, as well as Samsung’s Wireless Powershare. Alongside this, you’re looking at 512GB of internal storage as well as microSD support up to 512GB. The USB-C cable is located on the bottom of the frame, and alas, there is no headphone jack! Qualcomm SDM855 octa-core processor 12GB RAM Samsung OneUI 4,380mAh battery Fast charging, wireless charging and wireless powershare 512GB internal storage MicroSD support up to 512GB USB-C cable Samsung Galaxy Fold | £2,200 ex-VAT     

The Sony Xperia 5 was announced at IFA 2019 as Sony’s latest flagship device, but this time comes in a slightly shrunken shell. A reasonably-sized smartphone, with a flagship set of specifications. Could this be Sony’s way of slyly bringing back the compact line? Sony Xperia 5 | £699 inc-VAT Display & Design The Sony Xperia 5 has already been touted as the compact Xperia 1, which we were fans of here at Clove, and the Xperia 5 certainly sports a similar look. The Xperia 5 retains the same 21:9 Cinema Wide aspect ratio that matches that of the cinema and makes media playback a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The 6.1-inch Full HD OLED panel has a 1080 x 2520-pixel resolution at 449 pixels per inch, meaning that colour reproduction, overall, is very good. There’s also support for HDR remastering to everything you watch, so even streaming content has more contrast and clarity. Add Dolby ATMOS stereo speakers to this and you have yourself your own mini cinema. This unique aspect ratio also means that the device is far slimmer in hand. Indeed, the Xperia 5 has been designed with this in mind and at 164g is pleasantly light. At 158 x 68 x 8.2mm it is shorter and narrower than the Xperia 1, but still leaves enough room for effective multitasking. A precision-engineered metal frame, coupled with a glass back make for a sophisticated overall look, finished off with a coating of Corning Gorilla Glass 6 for added durability and protection. It is prone to fingerprint smudges; however, the side mounted fingerprint sensor helps with this and is both easy to reach and very quick to use. 6.1″ Full HD OLED panel 21:9 CinemaWide aspect ratio 1080 x 2520 449ppi HDR remastering Dolby ATMOS sound 164g 158 x 68 x 8.2mm Corning Gorilla Glass 6 Side-mounted finger sensor Camera Moving onto the camera, and a similar triple lens rear setup adorns the Sony Xperia 5. (Top to bottom) This consists of a 12MP telephoto and portrait lens, with an f/2.4 aperture and 2x optical zoom, a 12MP lens with a 26mm equivalent focal length, f/1.6 aperture and OIS, and lastly a 12MP super-wide-angle lens, with an f/2.4 aperture and a 130-degree field of view. Smart scene detection uses AI tech to distinguish what is in a scene and adjusts your settings accordingly. Even with this enabled, colours are very natural and don’t come with the overbearing saturation that is the fault of many other smartphones. Sony’s Eye AutoFocus tech is similarly as impressive and instantly locks onto subjects for brilliant portraits. Low light photography has also been upgraded, as the main camera comes equipped with a bright f/1.6 lens. Combined with OIS and RAW noise reduction, final results are sharper and clearer than many similar devices. Shooting video is where the Sony Xperia 5 really comes into its own, supporting 4K HDR recording in 30fps or 1080p video at 60fps. Cinema Pro is an exceptional tool, giving budding creators access to professional colour management. This will also allow you to adjust shutter speed, ISO, focus and to tweak colour profile according to 8 professional colour management pre-sets. Alongside this, the Sony Xperia 5 is equipped with an 8MP front camera with an f/2.0 aperture for some very respectable selfies. Triple rear camera setup 12MP telephoto/portrait lens, f/2.4 aperture, 2x optical zoom 12MP sensor, 26mm equiv. focal length, f/1.6 aperture, OIS 12MP super-wide-angle lens, f/2.4 aperture, 130-degree FOV Smart scene detection Eye AutoFocus 8MP front camera, f/2.0 aperture 4K HDR recording at 30fps / 1080p at 60fps Cinema Pro   Performance So, this is clearly a great device for media lovers and also has a pack of features suited to keen gamers. Indeed, the Sony Xperia 5 lets you record your gameplay, face and commentary at the same time, before uploading to your favourite site. Voice changer similarly lets you have some fun with your game commentary. Alongside this, with game enhancer you can turn off all notifications during gameplay, whilst support for a wireless connection to a DualShock 4 controller is also supported. We’re not avid gamers here at Clove, however we didn’t notice any lags with the Xperia 5 which owes largely to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 855, which provides up to 45% faster CPU, 20% faster GPU and improved power efficiency. The 3,140mAh isn’t the biggest but should get you through the day, depending on use. A fast charger is packaged in the box though, getting you a 50% charge in 30 minutes. Sony also includes ‘Battery Care’ to keep the device from overcharging and ‘Adaptive Charging’ to monitor your device as it charges. Rounding things up, the Sony Xperia 5 comes with an IP65/68 certification for water and dust resistance and supports a microSD card of up to 512GB. Game-play recording Wireless connection to DualShock 4 controller Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor 3,140mAh battery Fast Charging IP65/68 certification MicroSD support up to 512GB Sony Xperia 5 | £699 inc-VAT