Comparing Amazon’s Echo Show to Hub, there was a time when home automation was a niche hobby reserved for the tech-savvy. However, it’s become more of a commonplace reality these days thanks to a well-implemented integration by industry players like Google. The Google Home, for example, has expanded from its early days as a fairly straightforward smart speaker system to an entire ecosystem that works with a ton of other devices, from smart lights to smart thermostats.

So, while it might sound like a lot of work setting this up, it’s actually much easier than you’d expect. If you’re ready to go all-in with your home automation system, start by heading over to your phone’s Google Home app and following these steps:

Choose your Google Home device.

Whether you’re going for the O.G. smart speaker or you’re going for a more specialist device like smart lights or thermostat, you’re going to need some hardware to start your home automation journey.

Plug in your Google Home Device.

Once you have your device on hand, plug it in and switch it on. Once it’s powered up, you can carry on with the rest of these steps on your smartphone’s Google Home app or via the device’s touch screen if it has one.

Download, install, and open your Google Home app.

Once you’re on the app, log in to your Google account while connected to your home Wi-Fi connection. If it’s your first time setting up a Google Home device, you’ll have to tap on Create Home and give it a nickname to help you stay organized as you add more devices later. Tap on your Home, then Next.

Look for your device.

Tap on Devices, Add, then New Device. Look for the Google Home device you’d like to add. (Google Nest Speakers, Google TV, Chromecast, Nest Camera, Nest Thermostats, and many thousands of third-party Google Home-enabled devices)

Now you’re all set up.

The setup between most Google Home devices is largely the same, with some devices deviating because of the nature of the device itself. For example, Google Nest Hub devices have their own screens from which you can log in, while other devices, such as the Nest speakers, require you to use your smartphone for the setup process.

The Google Nest Hub is available from Amazon and Walmart, and the Google Nest Hub Max is available from Walmart.

The Google Nest WiFi Pro is available from Amazon.

The Google Pixel Tablet is available from Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What exactly is Google Home?

A: Google Home used to refer to Google’s smart speaker lineup. However, over time, evolved to include other smart devices such as smart thermostats, Google TVs, Chromecasts, and other third-party devices.

Q: Do I need a Google account to set up a Google Home device?

A: To get all that Google Home goodness flowing, you’ll need a Google account. If you’re an Android user, you likely already have one (score!). If not, setting up a Google account is easy as pie. And it won’t just give you access to Google Home but a whole host of Google services.

Q: Will Google Home listen to my personal conversations?

A: Nope. Google Home only starts recording when it hears the ‘magic words’, which are “Okay Google” or “Hey Google.” Your private chats are safe, but remember, it may hear all your shower singing sessions!

Q: Does Google Home need a constant internet connection?

A: Google Home devices use Wi-Fi signals to communicate with each other. So, certain tasks and commands, such as asking Google Assistant for the weather, may not work properly if the internet connection is disrupted.

Q: Can I use Google Home if I have an iPhone?

A: Google Home works just fine with iOS devices. Just download the Google Home app from the Apple App Store, and you’re good to go. So, keep that iPhone in your pocket, and give a round of applause for cross-tech harmony!

Also Read:

1. Google Home Max Review: high quality, smart home audio
2. How to talk to Philips Hue & Google Home
3. How to control Chromecast TV with Google Home
4. How to get Google Home to control August smart locks

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post How to Set Up Google Home appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Buying a laptop for under $400 likely means you’ll be in a world of pain once you witness the compromises you’ll get for that low price. However, if we’re talking about Chromebooks, you could get some mileage if Google’s lightweight operating system fits your specific use cases. Even a basic machine like the Acer Chromebook 314 laptop can get things done as long as you don’t push it too hard. Knowing this Chromebook’s boundaries requires a closer look at the operating system powering this machine – Chrome OS.

What is Chrome OS?

Chrome OS is a full operating system built around Google’s Chrome browser. If you can imagine loading up Windows on your laptop and the only “desktop application” you can run is Google Chrome, you can get a good sense of the Chrome OS life. Don’t let that fool you into thinking that Chrome OS is severely limited because its usefulness outside of Web browsing rides on two major areas – the Chrome extensions and the Web apps.

The Chrome Web Store is more than 12 years old and third-party developers continue to make useful apps that can enhance your Web browsing experience. Average Windows users might not need to explore the Chrome Web Store so much because of the vast third-party app ecosystem, but Chrome OS will force you to dig deeper, and you’ll eventually find some neat little productivity-enhancing gems.

Web apps are booming more than ever before as developers try to make their apps and services accessible to as many devices as possible from smartphones to desktops. By keeping all the code on the server side, updating apps and services become much easier and users don’t have to download large installers. This is why Chromebooks exist with storage capacities as low as 64 GB. One good and reliable Web app counts as one extra thing a Chromebook can do.

Extra Features

The Chrome browser experience doesn’t exactly define the boundaries of Chrome OS as the operating system has a few extra features. Like Windows, Chrome OS has a customizable taskbar where you can pin shortcuts to your favorite Web apps as well as a launcher where you can access more apps including some of the lightweight built-in system apps. You can also personalize the OS such as changing your wallpaper or adding extra users with Google accounts.

Chrome OS also has access to the Play Store allowing you to install Android apps just in case you might have a favorite mobile app you wish to use on your laptop. Don’t get too excited with this one especially if you’re looking to buy a budget Chromebook because Android apps are a bit more demanding in system resources and compatibility varies since most apps are designed for touch. Not all devices running Chrome OS including the Acer Chromebook 314 have a touchscreen.

Why Choose a Chromebook Over a Windows Laptop?

Windows laptops can hit a pretty attractive sub-$300 price point as well and obviously have the benefit of being able to run all sorts of apps and games even without an Internet connection. However, Windows is a juggernaut of an operating system filled with both legacy and modern code which some feel just isn’t efficient enough for basic hardware to run smoothly.

On paper, the Acer Chromebook 314 should meet the Windows 11 minimum requirements with its Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4 GB of LPDDR4 RAM but even out of the box, Windows 11 will consume at least 3 GB of RAM and try to put stress on the SSD if it needs extra virtual memory. Windows Update and Defender can be pretty taxing for the Intel N4020 too with its slow dual cores.
I believe nobody should be using a dual-core 4 GB Windows laptop in 2023 as apps and operating systems continue to evolve and become more demanding. Chromebooks, on the other hand, run far more efficiently due to the basic nature of Chrome OS. More of that 4 GB RAM can be allocated for additional browser tabs and fewer background tasks mean prolonged battery life compared to a Windows system with the same specs. Chrome OS also requires less tinkering to get the performance and battery life you need although the Acer Chromebook 314 is a minor exception.

Acer Chromebook 314 – Bare minimum?

The Acer Chromebook 314  laptop is positioned at the very bottom of Acer’s Chromebook lineup as the company also offers other Chromebooks that cost more than double the amount but also boast twice as much RAM and CPU cores. Is having bare minimum performance worth the savings? Knowing your use case is key to appreciating the Acer Chromebook 314’s value.

For starters, you want to avoid using the Play Store feature altogether by disabling the Play Store option in the Chrome OS settings. Even if you don’t plan on installing Android apps, leaving the Google Play Store enabled will run some background tasks necessary for Android apps to function and it will bog down the performance of a dual-core 4 GB Chromebook like the Acer Chromebook 314. Android apps will run if you really insist on installing them, but expect the performance to drop a bit and try to avoid keeping too many browser tabs open especially if they run heavy background tasks.

If you use fewer than ten tabs at a time, you might have some available memory to install some extensions. Feel free to experiment with your favorite extensions and then launch the Task Manager by right-clicking on the title bar and clicking “Task Manager” to see how much memory those extensions are using. Typical extensions use less then 50,000 KB or 50 MB worth of memory but the Acer Chromebook 314 could still suffer from slowdowns if you try to visit heavy websites filled with ads, scripts, and other media.

The Acer Chromebook 314 is also equipped with 64 GB of flash memory. That isn’t a whole lot but I don’t find any issue with it since the laptop also has a pair of USB-C ports and USB-A ports for external drives. One of the USB-C ports also supports Power Delivery for charging as well as DisplayPort in case you wish to add an extra monitor. But even on its own, the Full HD 1080p display is adequate for watching Web videos and the built-in Wi-Fi 5 chip is more than capable of streaming high-quality HD footage.

Overall review: Acer Chromebook 314

I would describe the laptop Acer Chromebook 314 as a decent budget machine that will later serve as a “one task at a time” type of machine years later. We are entering the AI phase of the Web and AI is going to put a lot more strain on our systems as we try to come up with some clever prompts for whatever type of media response we want. Even if AI isn’t for you, websites will continue to evolve and feel more app-like, and push basic hardware to their limits. But if you don’t mind keeping your tabs and background activity to a bare minimum, the Acer Chromebook 314 will always be a superior performer compared to any Windows laptop with similar specs. The double-digit battery life and simplistic Chrome OS experience makes this Chromebook a good choice for students.

Acer Chromebook 314 ranges in price from $230-589CAD and $245+USD.

Of course if you want to see the future of Chromebooks, check out our review of the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34, which doubles pretty much all of the key specs of this machine and add a boatload of artificial intelligence features to boot. Since it’s also very close to this one in price, it might be a more worthy option to upgrade.

Shop the Acer Chromebook 314 on Amazon and Walmart

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Review: Acer Chromebook 314 laptop appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

A year after entering the smartwatch game, Google is back with the new Google Pixel 2 smartwatch. I recently got a sample watch from Google to test out and review a few days ahead of its public launch.

It was no secret that Google had been trying to get into the smartwatch business for years. But they needed to make a statement with their opening salvo into a market already saturated by big players such as Apple and Samsung. After all, these players had almost half a decade’s worth of a head start. So, when they announced that they were acquiring Fitbit, a startup already beloved in the wearable fitness tracker space, there was excitement (and maybe a little trepidation) in the air.

With Google’s massive marketing, R&D, and development resources, it seemed like a guarantee that their new smartwatch would be a worthy opponent to the Apple Watch and Galaxy Watch.

And they didn’t disappoint with the Pixel Watch when it was finally launched in 2022. It was such a huge success that it already surpassed the Galaxy Watch as the number two in the number of units shipped, next only to the formidable Apple Watch.

So, now that the Pixel Watch 2 has just been released, what’s changed, and what’s better?

What is Google Pixel Watch 2?

This is Google’s second smartwatch, designed to work with the Google Pixel line of phones, and any newer Android device.

There’s a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth version ($479CAD) or a cellular-connected LTE option that costs a bit more ($549) and this is only a marginal price increase over the original watch.

My hands-on video review

It has built-in Fitbit technology for health tracking and fitness, plus it will do all the standard smartwatch tasks like send texts, calls, calendar alerts and more to your wrist (as long as you’re using it with an Android phone). It also, naturally, has built-in Google Assistant, which as a rule works far better than Siri.

Speaking of Siri, in what will be a major blow for Apple users looking for a more stylish smart watch option, the Watch will not work with iOS devices.

What’s in the Box?

In the box you get your Watch with an updated 4-pin charging pad and there’s an extra band for adjusting fit too.

Set up

Getting the Watch set up was super fast and easy in my testing: Just bring the charged Watch close to your Pixel phone and then let the magic happen. Set up is automatic, requiring just a few confirmation taps from you, and the download of the Pixel Watch app—then you’ll be ready to go. You can also link an existing Fitbit account in the setup to port that data to your Pixel Watch.

Fitbit Account merging – not perfect

Since Google’s purchase of Fitbit a couple of years ago, work has been underway in the background to morph Fitbit into a Google-linked feature. To that end, Fitbit accounts will be going away, and you will need to create a Google account or merge an existing Fitbit account with a Gmail/Google account.

It seems some of the best features on the Pixel Watch 2 are not available until you merge or update your Fitbit account with Google.

I experienced a delay in merging my accounts (had two accounts and needed to delete the old one) and as a result, was unable to view more than just the basic stats on the watch for seven days until my account was merged manually. Fortunately, I got great service from the Fitbit customer care team.

What’s new with Pixel Watch 2?

On the surface, it’s not going to look like very much is new at all; the watch looks essentially identical to the original. Where are you’ll find significant improvements is under the hood.

Design & Display: Familiar Yet Refreshing

The Pixel Watch 2 keeps the round 1.5 inch touchscreen design of its predecessor. It’s a welcome carry-over because this means it can keep its sleek and versatile design that easily translates from a board meeting to a Zumba class without breaking a sweat, which isn’t something that can be said about some other smartwatches out there.

The display is as crisp and vibrant as ever, and the touchscreen is responsive, making app navigation an absolute breeze. However, for people who had issues with the noticeably large bezels from the original Pixel Watch, I’m afraid to say that’s still the case with the Pixel Watch 2. Perhaps craftily, most of the dark watch faces on the AMOLED screen can make it look like they’re not even there, but they are extremely noticeable anytime your watch face fills the screen.

Aside from the bezel, another polarizing design choice for some is the size. While it’s perfect for slim wrists (and women’s wrists like min, in particular), it can look a bit wee for people with larger wrist diameters. I’m going to consider this a plus however, since I’ve spent more than enough time complaining that watches are designed for male wrists and are comically large on a woman. There;’s also just one size of Watch 2, which doesn’t make everyone happy, except for me.

The digital crown seems a bit thinner and protrudes less, which is a welcome help for anyone wearing longer sleeves.

Performance & Battery

Under the hood is where the true improvements were made on the Pixel Watch 2. It’s now equipped with a more current Snapdragon W5 chip – the same chip used on the latest Galaxy Watch Series 6.
But what does that chip mean for you? Smoother performance and longer battery life!

The W5 chip sips power, especially when compared head-to-head with the Exynos 9110 on the original Pixel Watch. If you’ve heard about the complaints about the less-than-ideal battery life of its predecessor, then this development is a (huge?) upgrade.

To make battery life even better, Google has also fitted the Pixel Watch 2 with slightly bigger batteries. Combined with the chip upgrade, you can expect a significant improvement in the overall battery life even with the Always-On Display activated. Google’s promising a full day’s worth of juice this time which means you no longer need to plug the watch back in before you go to sleep to take advantage of its sleep-tracking features.

In my testing, I found there was definitely better battery life, even as I left the Always-On display on. I got about 28-29 hours of life before it nudged me that it would go into standby mode. About 2 hours later the display switched to a simple time-only screen, which actually lasted a further 10 hours before it shut down completely.
If you do find yourself needing to top off your watch batteries, then at least you don’t have to wait so long as the faster charging speed will have your tracker back on your wrist in no time. I was able to recharge to 80 percent in about 40 minutes and to 100 percent in 75 minutes.

Of note, the Pixel Watch 2 now comes with a new Pogo pin charger instead of the Qi wireless charger of the original. The only caveat here is that you do have to carefully line up pins on the charging puck with the connectors on the back of the Watch.

Health & Fitness Features: Your Personal Trainer, Therapist & Running Buddy All in One

Thanks to Google’s connection with Fitbit, the original Pixel Watch was among the best at health and fitness tracking features in the dedicated smartwatch space—and I’ve written for years about the effectiveness, accuracy, and efficiency of Fitbit devices, and I’ve been a huge fan.

The Pixel Watch 2 now boasts three new sensors – a multi-path heart rate reader, a skin temperature sensor, and an electrodermal activity sensor. For sports enthusiasts and even professionals, the multi-path heart rate reader is probably the most interesting update. It’s technology lifted from Fitbit’s arsenal, which enables a more accurate heart rate reading even when doing strenuous activities that require swinging your hands, such as sprinting and playing basketball.

The electro-dermal sensor, other hand, gives the Pixel Watch 2 some stress-tracking capabilities through changes in the sweat glands, that can be linked to stress levels. The skin temperature sensor, on the other hand, will be used to measure your body temperature so that you can track your health even more effectively.

These three new sensors help keep track of your holistic health, and while they’re not technically to be used for medical diagnosis, they can be effective at detecting deviations in your baseline values and alerting you to potential health risks.

The Pixel Watch 2 also offers automatic workout start and stop reminders that can detect 7 common workouts, including walking, outdoor cycling, and more. I can confirm my twice-daily dog walks were picked up automatically after about 10 minutes, same as they were with my last Fitbit tracker. Just tap to confirm (but it will still count you steps even if you don’t).

For more athletic types, Heart Zone Training will guide you to meet your goals with voice and haptic cues that can help you move through your 4 personalized heart rate zones. And with Pace Training, those cues will help you stay on pace or get back to your ideal pace if you’ve fallen behind.

Safety & help features

Pixel Watch 2 has a few new features to augment the existing safety technology, like Fall Detection and Emergency SOS.

Something called Safety Check allows you to schedule a timer for situations where you might want your friends or family to know where you are. After the timer expires, Safety Check will prompt you to confirm you’re OK, or if you’d like to start sharing your location or contact emergency services. If no response is received, Safety Check will trigger Emergency Sharing, which shares your real-time location and situation with your pre-selected emergency contacts. You can also use Emergency Sharing with contacts for a designated amount of time so your loved ones can see your real-time location, or enable Medical Info to share personal health information with emergency services, like blood type, allergies, or conditions.

New safety features are accessed on the watch by swiping down from the top and choosing the Settings gear then selecting Safety & Emergency from the menu. Worth noting is that in some cases these features (like fall detection) do you need to be turned on for them to work.

With Safety Signal, Fitbit Premium members can get phone-free connectivity to safety features even without activating a full carrier LTE plan on their cellular-enabled watch.

Fitbit Premium – pay-to-play

It’s probably also worth pointing out that some of the more advanced features of the watch and of the fitness tracking are reserved for Fitbit premium members. Fitbit Premium costs a surprising $13CAD/month or $10USD and gets you things like recorded workouts and more granular data on sleep or stress.

Better haptics & alerts

One of the things I noticed is that the haptic cues (the vibrations) seem a bit stronger, and I also noticed I was getting more audible cues too in a variety of sounds and tones.
Control smart home from your wrist

Pixel Watch has the ability to control your smart home gadgets, thanks to that built-in Google Assistant (and Google Home) function. That means you can turn lights on and off, unlock doors, even open your garage all by just triggering the assistant.

The verdict

I really liked the first Pixel Watch, so it may not be surprising that overall I like the Watch 2.

Some users (not me) might find the lack of a significant design overhaul a little disappointing, looking for a slimmer profile and smaller bezels. And while the Pixel Watch 2 offers improved battery life, it might still fall short for those who need their watch to last multiple days without charging.

One of my biggest complaints about dedicated smartwatches has been the lackluster battery life. If you want to use your watch to stay productive all day, and to monitor your sleep at night, at some point you’ve got to take it off to get that charging done. But with faster charging in watch 2, that helps.

Let’s look at the pros and the cons.

On the Pro side, the design is attractive, the improved chip and bigger battery helps the watch last longer. Plus with all the Fitbit health and tracking features, plus the emergency help options, this is a great watch for day to day, fitness enthusiasts or those with health conditions. I think the band is comfortable and the screen is easy to read, and the touch interface works well.

On the Con side, I’d love to see the bezel slim down and the watch face get bigger— and the case to slim down just a smidge. Apple users may be disappointed the Watch 2 won’t work for them, but that is just the kind of walled garden Google is hoping to set up to lure you over to team Pixel.

In short, this is a great watch for android phone users and I can absolutely recommend it to you.

Here’s the price breakdown: There’s a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth version for about $479CAD or a cellular connected option that costs a bit more at $549— and this is only a marginal price increase over the original watch. Prices in the USA are $349US and $399 respectively. You can get it from Google or places like Best Buy and Amazon. You can also still get the original at Walmart.

You’ve got plenty of other options for smart watches… Check out what you can get from a far less expensive and longer lasting Fitbit tracker, or see what Samsung’s newest smart watch is like right now.

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Review: Google Pixel Watch 2 appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Google’s Pixel lineup is like the cool kid at a tech party – bold, stylish, and always up for a camera showdown. Google’s ingenuity doesn’t stop at phones; it stretches into your ears with Pixel Buds and even sets up camp in your living room with the Google Nest crew. Let’s dive into the dynamic universe of Google’s gadgets!

Section 1: Google Pixel Phones

Google’s Pixel lineup isn’t just a phone collection; it’s more like a signature dish on the tech menu. Cooked up with the idea of serving a flawless Android experience, these Pixel devices have become the rockstars of the smartphone world, flaunting their muscle-bound hardware, camera quality, and software integration. Let’s take a stroll down the tech memory lane as we follow the evolution of Google Pixel phones – from the OG Pixel and Pixel XL in 2016 to the freshest addition, the Pixel 7 in 2022.

Pixel and Pixel XL (2016)

The Pixel saga began in 2016 with the launch of the original Pixel and Pixel XL. These phones marked Google’s official entry into the hardware market, aiming to showcase the best of Android through a combination of software and hardware excellence. With a focus on camera quality, unlimited Google Photos storage, and a smooth, unadulterated Android experience, the first Pixel phones set the foundation for what was to come.

Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL (2017)

Building upon the success of their predecessors, the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL arrived in 2017. These phones emphasized advanced AI capabilities, exemplified by the innovative Active Edge feature that allowed users to launch Google Assistant by squeezing the phone’s sides. The Pixel 2 lineup continued to excel in photography, setting new standards for smartphone camera performance and further solidifying Google’s reputation in this domain.

Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL (2018)

In 2018, Google unleashed the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, showcasing a refined design and enhanced camera features. The Pixel 3 lineup introduced Night Sight, a groundbreaking low-light photography mode that transformed nighttime photography. The devices also embraced a dual front camera setup for wider-angle selfies, enhancing the phone’s versatility in capturing memories.

Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL (2019)

The Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL took a swan dive into the pool of innovation, courtesy of Google. They flaunted Motion Sense, a wizardry of radar-based gestures that let you work your magic on the phone without even laying a finger on it. Additionally, the Pixel 4 lineup enhanced face recognition and photography capabilities, further cementing their position as powerful multimedia tools.

Pixel 4a and Pixel 4a 5G (2020)

In 2020, Google introduced the Pixel 4a and Pixel 4a 5G, expanding its lineup to include more affordable options. These phones retained the core Pixel experience while offering a budget-friendly alternative. The Pixel 4a 5G, in particular, brought 5G connectivity to the Pixel lineup, catering to users seeking high-speed data connections.

Pixel 5 (2020)

The Pixel 5, launched in 2020, represented a departure from the previous flagship models. Focusing on a balanced approach, Google opted for mid-range hardware specifications while maintaining the core Pixel strengths: exceptional camera performance and pure Android software. The Pixel 5 also introduced features like Reverse Wireless Charging and a larger battery, aiming to provide users with a reliable and versatile device.

Pixel 6 (2021)

In a market dominated by giants like Apple and Samsung, Google’s Pixel 6 has emerged as a worthy contender. Packed with a host of innovative features and a distinctive design, the Pixel 6 stands out in the crowd and offers a fresh smartphone experience.

Design and Display

The Pixel 6 introduces a unique design element with its horizontal camera bar, setting it apart from its competitors. This innovative approach not only provides a fresh aesthetic but also prevents wobbling when the phone is placed on a surface. The 6.4-inch OLED display boasts a 90Hz adaptive refresh rate, providing a smooth and immersive experience. While the 2400 x 1080p resolution is sharp, the colors on the display may not be as vibrant as some of its competitors.

Cameras and Photography

The Pixel 6’s cameras shine as one of its key highlights. The 50MP wide-angle main camera and 12MP ultrawide camera deliver stunning shots, aided by Google’s computational photography capabilities. The new Magic Eraser feature, which removes unwanted objects from photos, is particularly impressive. Additionally, the camera offers features like Motion mode for dynamic shots and improved skin tone representation. While the Pixel 6’s camera performance is commendable, some comparisons with the iPhone 13 reveal room for improvement, especially in low-light scenarios.

Performance and Features

Powered by Google’s custom Tensor processor, the Pixel 6 showcases AI-powered capabilities that enhance photography and enable features like on-the-fly language translation and voice-powered typing. The Tensor chip brings machine learning features to the forefront, making the Pixel 6 more than just a camera phone. However, while performance is strong, it’s not quite on par with top-of-the-line flagship processors like the Snapdragon 888.

Battery and Charging

Battery performance is a mixed bag for the Pixel 6. The phone’s 4,614 mAh battery offers decent longevity on LTE networks, lasting around 10 hours and 52 minutes on average. However, the inconsistency becomes evident when using 5G, where the battery drains more quickly, clocking in at around 8 hours and 13 minutes. While not the best in its class, the Pixel 6’s battery performance is generally sufficient for most users.

Software and Updates

Running on Android 12 with Google’s Material You interface, the Pixel 6 offers a personalized and visually appealing user experience. The integration of software with hardware is reminiscent of Apple’s approach. Google’s commitment to five years of security updates for the Pixel 6 is a step forward in ensuring device longevity and security.

Final Thoughts

The Google Pixel 6 stands out as a remarkable device with its unique design, innovative features, and strong camera capabilities. While it may not quite match the top-tier offerings from Apple and Samsung, it holds its ground and caters well to Android enthusiasts who prioritize Google’s software and features. The Pixel 6’s competitive pricing, starting at $599, makes it an enticing option for those looking for a flagship experience without breaking the bank. In a sea of smartphones, the Pixel 6 is Google’s bold statement that it’s here to compete.

Pixel 7 (2022)

Google’s Pixel 7 steps onto the stage with impressive camera capabilities, a souped-up Tensor G2 chipset, and some standout features. While it may not topple the giants like the iPhone 14 or Galaxy S23, the Pixel 7’s combination of great value and impressive capabilities makes it a strong contender.

Design and Display

The Pixel 7 maintains the distinctive design of its predecessor, with a sleek camera bar stretching across the back. The new aluminum finish adds a touch of elegance, although the absence of the two-tone color strip is notable. The 6.3-inch OLED display offers a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and a peak brightness of 1,400 nits, ensuring visibility even in direct sunlight.

Cameras and Photography

Google’s strength in computational photography shines through in the Pixel 7’s camera setup. The 50MP main camera and 12MP ultrawide lens capture sharp and colorful photos. The new Tensor G2 chipset enhances Super Res Zoom and introduces Photo Unblur, a feature that can improve the clarity of blurry photos. The 10.8MP front camera offers a wider field of view, accommodating more subjects in your selfies.

Performance and Features

With the Tensor G2 chipset, the Pixel 7 delivers a solid performance, though it falls behind the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 found in some competitors. The Pixel 7 handles tasks well, from photo editing to video playback, and offers unique features like Photo Unblur and Smart Direct Call. However, it’s not the fastest performer in its class.

Battery and Charging

Battery life remains a concern with the Pixel 7, as it struggles to keep up with other flagship smartphones. The 4,355 mAh battery provides around 7 hours of screen-on time in our test, falling short of the average. Charging capabilities are advertised at 30W, but real-world results might be less impressive.

Software and Updates

Running Android 13, the Pixel 7 showcases the Android experience at its best. Google offers five years of security updates but limits software updates to three years, which could be a drawback for those seeking long-term support.

Final Thoughts

The Pixel 7 emerges as a strong contender with its excellent cameras, unique features powered by the Tensor G2 chipset, and a competitive price. While it might not be a game-changer in the flagship market, it certainly proves its worth. Improved battery life and extended software support would have been welcome additions, but the Pixel 7 still stands as a compelling choice for users looking beyond the iPhone-Galaxy duopoly. For those seeking a telephoto lens, the Pixel 7 Pro could be a more appealing option.

Shop Google Pixel 7a, Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro on Amazon

Section 2: Pixel Buds and Pixel Buds Pro

Google’s Pixel Buds lineup isn’t just about wireless earbuds – it’s a full-on concert for your ears. From the initial encore with the first-generation Pixel Buds in 2017 to the dazzling headliner, Pixel Buds Pro, in 2022, Google has been jamming to a new tune of audio excellence.

Picture this: real-time translation, active noise cancellation, and a dash of Android magic – it’s like having your personal DJ on standby.

First-generation Pixel Buds (2017)

Google’s debut wireless earbuds, the first-generation Pixel Buds, were unveiled alongside the Pixel 2 in October 2017. Featuring an “open-air” design and a fabric-covered cord, they introduced Google Assistant and real-time translation through Google Translate. Available in black, white, and blue, they were known for their unique fit.

Second-generation Pixel Buds (2020)

In April 2020, Google launched the second-generation Pixel Buds, improving on their predecessor. These earbuds had touch controls, passive noise cancellation, and “Hey Google” voice activation. Despite connectivity issues, they offered enhanced design and colors, including orange and mint.

Pixel Buds A-Series (2021)

The mid-range Pixel Buds A-Series arrived in June 2021, retaining the design of the second-generation. They improved connectivity, comfort, and came in white, green, and later, charcoal.

Pixel Buds Pro (2022)

May 2022 saw the introduction of the premium Pixel Buds Pro with Active Noise Cancellation. Released in July, they boasted customizable gestures, silicone tips, and enhanced sound. Updates added an equalizer and spatial audio with head tracking.

ANC and Audio Precision

The Pixel Buds Pro impress with their active noise cancellation, effectively combating low-frequency ambient sounds. Their 11mm dynamic drivers deliver robust bass and crisp highs, providing an immersive sonic experience.

Intuitive Design and Controls

Designed for a secure fit without extra accessories, the earbuds boast intuitive capacitive touch controls. These controls allow easy playback, call management, volume adjustments, and ANC mode changes.

Android Synergy and Codec Limitation

Android users benefit from seamless integration and Google Assistant interaction. However, the omission of the AptX codec limits audio quality on Android devices, relying mainly on AAC and SBC codecs.

Innovative Features

Real-time translation via Google Translate and hands-free Google Assistant usage exemplify the Pixel Buds Pro’s innovation, enhancing overall convenience.

Battery Efficiency and Casing

Offering 7-11 hours of playback and 20-31 hours with the charging case, the earbuds balance battery life and portability. IPX4-rated earpieces and IPX2-rated case cater to average water-resistance needs.

Final Thoughts

The Google Pixel Buds Pro combines advanced ANC, versatile sound profile, and seamless Android integration, though lacking AptX support. They excel in functionality and audio precision, making them a compelling choice for tech-savvy users. However, users who prioritize comfort, stability, and neutral sound may prefer the Apple AirPods Pro Truly Wireless but the AirPods Pro doesn’t match the Pixel Buds Pro in noise isolation.

Shop Google Pixel Buds Pro and Pixel Buds A-Series on Amazon

Section 3: Google Pixel Watch

Finally hitting the market in October 2022, the Google Pixel Watch, crafted through a Google-Samsung collaboration brought with it a wave of anticipation, aiming to be the ideal companion for Pixel phone users. Its minimalist design, complete Google services lineup, and Wear OS 3.5 painted a promising picture. Teaming up with Fitbit for fitness tracking and integration of Google Assistant added to the excitement. However, as with any first attempt, there are a few wrinkles to iron out.

Specs

With a stainless-steel case (80% recycled material) and a 1.2″ AMOLED display, the Pixel Watch’s design combines elegance and durability. The display boasts 320ppi pixel density and a 3D Gorilla Glass 5 cover, ensuring a clear and vibrant visual experience.

Design

The watch’s emphasis on comfort and style is evident in its flexible fluoroelastomer Active Band. The band, resilient and comfortable, caters to different wrist sizes. The watch’s minimalist design aligns with Google’s aesthetic sensibilities, providing comfort and a sleek appearance.

Display

A sharp circular AMOLED display, encased in Gorilla Glass 5, shines at 1.2 inches with 450 x 450 px resolution. With adaptive brightness, the watch ensures excellent visibility even under sunlight. Features like always-on and sunlight boost enhance usability.

Performance and Connectivity

Powered by the Exynos 9110 chipset, complemented by the Cortex M33 co-processor, the watch offers efficient performance and power management. Connectivity features, including Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, NFC, and LTE in the LTE model, ensure seamless interaction.

Wear OS 3.5

Running on Wear OS 3.5, the Pixel Watch benefits from an improved user interface, snappier interactions, and refined animations. The rotating dial facilitates easy navigation, while the integration of Google Assistant ensures a seamless experience.

Fitbit Integration

The integration of Fitbit functionalities brings a comprehensive suite of health-tracking options. Fitbit Premium’s inclusion offers advanced tracking and access to a library of exercise videos and mindfulness content, boosting the watch’s health-conscious features.

Charging and Battery

Sporting a 294 mAh battery, the Pixel Watch provides “All day” usage, with quick charging capabilities. In 30 minutes, the watch can recharge up to 50%. However, usage patterns and features like sleep tracking affect battery life.

Final Thoughts

While the Google Pixel Watch shines as a first-gen product, it faces challenges like battery life, compatibility, and pricing. Its potential lies in the promised feature drops, indicating a commitment to improvement. As a pioneer, the Pixel Watch offers a glimpse into the future of Wear OS, poised to shape the smartwatch landscape.

Shop Google Pixel Watch on Amazon

Section 4: Google + Google Nest Smart Home

Imagine a home that listens to your needs, entertains your whims, and creates an ambiance that suits your mood. That’s the magic Google Nest devices bring to the modern living scene.

Google Home (2016)

Back in 2016, Google introduced the original Google Home speaker, marking the inception of a voice-activated smart speaker. It was a revelation, capable of setting timers, playing music, and controlling various smart home devices. Over the years, its capabilities have only expanded, making it an essential companion for managing tasks and enjoying media.

Google Nest Mini

The evolution of the Google Home Mini, the Nest Mini carried the torch forward. Under its unassuming exterior lies the power of Google Assistant, ready to assist you in your daily activities. Despite its compact size, it’s a potent device that seamlessly integrates into your smart home ecosystem.

Google Nest Hub

With the Google Nest Hub, the smart home experience became visual. Sporting a 7-inch display, it transforms into a dynamic dashboard for your life. From recipes to reminders, it’s a versatile device that lets you interact in new ways, all while complementing your home decor.

Google Nest Hub Max

Going big in 2019, Google unveiled the Nest Hub Max. Boasting a 10-inch screen and a front-facing camera, it’s not just a smart display, but also a communication hub. Video calls, smart home control, and multimedia consumption are all wrapped into one.

Google Home Max

When audio quality is paramount, the Google Home Max steps in. An audiophile’s delight, it pumps out sound that resonates throughout your space. With its impeccable audio engineering, it strikes a chord with music enthusiasts.

Nest Learning Thermostat

Nest Learning Thermostat

In 2011, the Nest Learning Thermostat redefined temperature control. Its ability to learn your preferences and adapt to your schedule optimizes energy consumption. This clever device not only enhances comfort but also promotes energy efficiency.

Nest Thermostat E

A cost-effective alternative that retains the learning capabilities of its larger sibling, the Nest Thermostat E is perfect for those seeking efficient temperature control.

Nest Temperature Sensor

Addressing temperature discrepancies, the Nest Temperature Sensor ensures even comfort throughout your home. By relaying information to your thermostat, it creates an environment that suits your needs.

Shop Google Nest Hub on Amazon

Shop Google Nest Learning Thermostat, and Nest Temperature E and Sensor bundle on Amazon

Conclusion

From the catwalk-worthy Pixel phones to the harmonious Pixel Buds and the smart choreography of Nest devices, Google orchestrates a symphony of progress. The Google Pixel Watch joins the ensemble as well, syncing effortlessly with your digital life. As Google continues to push boundaries and redefine the possibilities, the significance of its devices in our modern lifestyles will only continue to grow.

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post A Brief History of Every Google Device appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Google has finally entered the foldable smartphone market with the Google Pixel Fold, a new smartphone that gives you two smart devices in one: a 5.8-inch outside screen that looks like a regular smartphone, and it cracks open to reveal a larger 7.6-inch internal display that’s akin to a tablet. Toss in the powerful Google Tensor Gen 2 processor, a triple-lens rear camera system, and a 10.8MP front-facing camera and on paper you’ve seemingly got a pretty versatile powerful device.

Google Pixel Fold Phone Full hands-on review

In this google pixel fold phone reviews, I’ll delve into the design as well as the user experience, the camera, software, pricing, and more about the Google Pixel Fold to give you an in-depth understanding of what this device brings to the table. I’ll wrap thigs up by sharing the pros and cons and letting you know if I think it’s a good pick for you.

Design

I have to admit I am way behind on the folding phone trend. I have reviewed exactly zero of the existing folding phones on the market. It was only a couple of weeks ago I was able to get about an hour with Samsung’s newest folding smart phones (Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5) which you can read about here. So I’m still one of those people who finds folding cell phones incredibly novel and a little bit exciting.

Watch my hands-on review of Google Pixel Fold

The Google Pixel Fold phone sports a more compact form factor, reminiscent of the Galaxy Fold 5 (and also, I’m told, Oppo Find N2). It’s shorter and wider and when used while closed closes completely with no gap.

The outer screen (Like Samsung’s Fold 4 and Fold 5) is a full size phone screen, meaning you can do a lot with it before you open it right up: No mini window here.

The hinge mechanism is noticeable in the design as Google opted to position of the hinge components at the very top and bottom resulting in larger bezels when the phone is unfolded.

The other thing I will say about this version of a folding phone is that the crease in the screen is extremely noticeable. The phone does not sit completely flat. It almost has a bit of a V shape to it to accommodate the hinges. That also results in a rather noticeable dip in the centre of the screen. I don’t think there’s really any way around this, though in the hour I spent with Samsung’s Fold 5 I felt their crease was a lot less noticeable.

There is a large protruding camera array on the back of the phone which means when it is folded closed and sitting on its back it leans at a slight angle.

Will the chunky bezels, awkward crease, and somewhat bulky form factor start to annoy me? I’ll have to report back after I’ve had some more time with it.

The edges of the phone are extremely rounded and one early annoyance I did find is that that makes it very slippery and somewhat awkward to open the phone to its tablet configuration. Most of the time I opted to jam a fingernail in there to help pop it open, but it seemed like the nail was getting caught a bit on the screen edge so that did concern me. Plus, not everyone has nails.

Despite those minor annoyance says I’d still give the overall design an 8 out of 10, because this type of technology still absolutely impresses me.

User experience

Let’s talk about the user experience of google pixel folding phone. Using this phone does take some getting used to for those of us who have been using smaller standard single screen devices. But I will say as someone who is eyesight is not the best, the ability to have a bigger screen instantly at hand when I need one is a game changer.

Some of the motions on the phone can be a little bit awkward to get used to, and I noticed things like the pass code would flip from one side of the tablet screen to another depending on which side of the crease I happened to swipe to open the phone. Pixel fold also comes with fingerprint unlock and the fingerprint sensor is embedded into the power button. This actually opens the phone screen extremely fast and conveniently.

Like other phones, you can use the Taskbar to switch between your apps or drag a compatible app into splitscreen mode to multitask with two apps side-by-side. When in splitscreen, you can drag and drop files across different apps, like Google Photos to Messages and Slides. Plus Google made the Taskbar dynamic, meaning it will disappear when you’re done using it so it doesn’t take up screen real estate.

When it comes to overall user experience, it’s hard to find things to complain about. The things I would consider griping about are simply grapes because I am not used to using them on such a large and versatile device. If some of the hand motions are awkward it’s because I’ve never made them before.

Hardware

The hardware specifications of the Google Pixel Fold are impressive, bordering on flagship level. The external 5.8-inch display offers a 1080p 120Hz OLED panel with over 1500 nits peak brightness. On the inside, there’s a 7.6-inch OLED display also featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and slightly over 1440p resolution.

The phone is powered by Google’s Tensor G2 chip, which has been in the Pixel lineup for some time. It also has 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

Battery & Charging

The battery is a 4,821mAh battery, which, while slightly smaller than the Pixel 7 Pro, presents a potential concern given the larger and brighter display. True battery performance can only be accurately assessed through real-world usage.

I use the phone more intermittently during my testing. Since it was on loan to me. I was able to get a couple days out of a charge, but heavy all-day users can expect more like 8 – 12 hours, depending of course what you’re doing with the phone and for how long.

Durability

I have read some stories about damage and breakage to the screen but so far in my couple of weeks with this phone I have not experienced any issues of concern.

Water resistance

Somewhat amazingly, Pixel Fold has an IPX8 rating for water resistance, meaning it is (basically, without going into a detailed explanation on IP ratings) waterproof, but not dirt and dustproof. As the device was on loan to me from Google, I didn’t dunk test it.

Use the Taskbar to easily switch between your apps or drag a compatible app into splitscreen mode to multitask with two apps side-by-side. When in splitscreen, you can easily drag and drop files across different apps, like Google Photos to Messages and Slides. Since the Taskbar is dynamic, it will disappear when you’re done using it so it doesn’t take up screen space.

Camera

Google Fold has a triple-lens rear camera system that consists of a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide sensor, and a 48MP telephoto sensor. The front-facing camera is a 10.8MP sensor.

Main sensor: The main sensor is a 50MP sensor that has a wide aperture of f/1.8. This allows it to capture a lot of light, which is important for taking photos in low-light conditions. The main sensor also has optical image stabilization (OIS), which helps to reduce blur caused by camera shake.

Ultrawide sensor: The ultrawide sensor is a 12MP sensor that has a wide field of view of 120 degrees. This allows you to capture more of the scene in your photos. The ultrawide sensor also has a wide aperture of f/2.2, which allows it to capture a lot of light.

Telephoto sensor: The telephoto sensor is a 48MP sensor with a focal length of 48mm. This allows you to zoom in on distant objects without losing much detail. The telephoto sensor also has OIS, which helps to reduce blur caused by camera shake.

Front-facing camera: The front-facing camera is a 10.8MP sensor that has a wide aperture of f/2.2. This allows it to capture a lot of light, which is important for taking selfies in low-light conditions. The front-facing camera also has OIS.

The Pixel Fold’s camera system is also supported by several software features you can find in existing Pixel phones, such as Night Sight, Portrait Mode, and Magic Eraser. Night Sight is a feature that allows you to take sharp, clear photos in low-light conditions. Portrait Mode is a feature that allows you to blur the background of your photos, giving them a professional look. Magic Eraser is a feature that allows you to remove unwanted objects from your photos.

I can see shooting photos on with the Fold open to its tablet configuration makes it super easy to frame shots perfectly. You definitely get an eye full and you can really capture exactly the photos you want because you can see them a lot better.

I will say the aspect ratio looks quite square when shooting videos and I wasn’t entirely sure what it was going to look like once I got them off of the fold and onto my computer for editing.

Software

Software plays a crucial role in making a phone exceptional, especially in the case of foldable devices. The Pixel Fold incorporates all the fan favourite Pixel features like Google Assistant, Now Playing for identifying music, Recorder for voice notes and transcriptions, Call Screening, translate, YouTube and Material You—an aesthetically customizable version of Android seen in previous Pixel devices.

A quick shout out to the extremely cleverly redesigned interpreter mode in Google Translate which can actually display different messages on different screens.

Dual Screen interpreter mode simultaneously uses the inner and outer screens to translate live conversations. With this feature, you’ll be able to have more natural conversations across languages, without having to huddle around a single screen.

The Pixel Fold runs Android 14 out of the box. Google has also worked on optimizing various apps for the foldable display, collaborating with developers to ensure apps make the most of the larger screen real estate. While there have been concerns about the software experience on Android tablets in the past, Google seems to have addressed these issues, providing side-by-side multitasking and introducing new app management features.

You can open two different windows on each half of the screen for multitasking or multiple views. Of course you can also open apps on the front screen as well if you want more of a traditional smart phone experience. Interestingly you can also split the front screen… Or at least it will adopt the split view if you’ve had it loaded on the tablet screen…

Overall Review: Google Pixel Fold

Overall this is a really fun phone that is going to solve a lot of smartphone pain points for a lot of users. That it doubles has both a regular size smartphone and a substantially bigger tablet in one device may justify its hefty price tag.

The Google Pixel Fold sells for $1,799US (and as I’ve noted before it’s not available in Canada). Google pixel fold price competes with other premium foldable smartphones on the market, but there’s no denying it’s an investment.

I think the screens are beautiful and bright and easy to read, the phone actually feels surprisingly durable and solidly built. It takes great photos and is an extremely versatile device and I’m glad to see there are many apps that have been optimized for use on this larger screen.

When it comes to the downsides you’ve already heard the big one; it’s the price tag. But for shoppers who might be inclined to pick up both a new smartphone and a new tablet, bundling them together into one device may actually be an economical choice.

There are a few other minor annoyances like the fact the phone won’t sit completely flat well fully open and has that visible crease, but these do become less noticeable the more you use it.

In short, I quite enjoyed my time with the Google Pixel Fold and I think even with a few things that could be improved, it’s a pretty solid first crack device and I can definitely recommend it if you’re in the market for a hybrid smartphone and tablet.

You can get a Pixel fold in the USA from Google or Amazon.

**A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Google Pixel Fold hands-on review appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

What can you do with the Pixel Tablet?

So new Google Pixel Tablet owners and potential future users, here’s the low-down on the things you can do with this $699 CAD tablet and dock combo.

Customizing Pixel Tablet

Just a little reminder for folks who might be familiar with Google’s past efforts in building a tablet; the Google Pixel Tablet runs Android 13 and not Chrome OS. This means you get the full customization benefits stock Android offers along with a couple of Pixel-specific features providing you stick with the tablet’s default Pixel Launcher. Like any Android tablet, you can see just how customizable your Pixel Tablet is by taking a trip to the “Settings” app.

Watch my video review of Google Pixel Tablet

Use Google Assistant for Anything

Google Assistant is more than 7 years old and Google continues to develop the virtual assistant as more people rely on AI and chatbots for quick information. The Google Pixel Tablet 2023 offers numerous ways to call up the assistant so you can get quick access to things like weather reports, news updates, recommendations, carry out tablet operations, issue smart home commands, and other things.

To customize Google Assistant to your liking, open the “Settings” app, go to “Apps” followed by “Assistant” to customize the ways you can bring up Google Assistant. For instance, you can open it by pressing and holding the power button or using the voice command “Hey Google” to summon the assistant as if you are talking to a Google Nest Hub if you enable the option. Once you see that bottom bar, voice out the prompt and let the Google Assistant do its thing!

Control Smart Home Devices

If you know all the names and commands of your Google Home-supported smart home devices, you should be able to control these devices straight from Google Assistant. But if you prefer getting a visual of your smart home constellation, you can do so by docking the Pixel Tablet to the speaker dock. This will bring up the “Hub Mode” where you can tap the “Home” button on the lower left and see your smart devices grouped up in categories such as lighting and cameras. This Home section also lists any devices you set as favorites so you can quickly do adjustments like changing a light’s brightness, tinkering with your smart thermostat, or checking on your front door’s camera.

Send Emails and Texts

Naturally, Google pre-installed Gmail in the Pixel Tablet allowing you to send emails from any Google account you linked to the tablet. The Pixel Tablet does not have a SIM card slot so while you cannot send any SMS, you can still use the Google Messages app to send RCS chats. Using Google Messages on the Pixel feels a lot like the web version, although this could change in future updates.

Create a Smart Home Hub

The moment you first magnetically attach the Pixel Tablet to the included speaker dock and plugged the dock to the power outlet, Android will take you through a quick setup procedure in setting up your smart hub. You can pick your screen saver, set your primary Google account, add the dock to your smart home, and configure Google Assistant to work to your liking. Once finished, configuring the smart home hub is very straightforward.

Change Wallpapers and Widgets

Long pressing an empty space in the home screen brings up a convenient popup menu where you can change the wallpaper, add or remove widgets, or change the home screen settings. Long-pressing on a widget allows you to customize that particular widget so you can see the other Pixel-exclusive widgets.

How To Add Users to Google Pixel Tablet

Unlike some Android tablets, the Google Pixel Tablet 2023 allows you to add additional users so they can have their own personalized screens. Just fire up the “Settings” app and go to “System” followed by “Multiple users.” Then enable the “Add users from lock screen” option. Go to the lock screen and tap the profile icon and from there you may add, remove, update, or switch users and give each user various permissions so you can, for instance, add a child account governed by parental controls you can apply.

Use Split Window to Multitask

The Google Pixel Tablet’s 10.95-inch display is large enough to run two apps side by side. You may bring up this multitasking feature by opening one of the apps you wish to use and then swiping up from the bottom and hold until the app slightly zooms out revealing previews of your recent apps. Tap the “Split” option and choose your second app to open on the other half of the screen. You can swap one of the open apps with another by repeating the bottom swipe gesture and pick another app from the dock.

Compatible Apps

Just about all existing and recently updated apps on the Google Play Store should work with the Google-Pixel Tablet. However, many apps scale poorly on the big screen so your user experience may vary. Android’s tablet-optimized app ecosystem still lags behind iOS’s but you can at least filter the app selection by heading to the Tablet section of the Google Play Store. Google also made a recent update in the Android Developers Blog promising to make it easier to find Android apps for bigger screens which is certainly a step in the right direction.

How to Play Music with Speaker Dock on Pixel Tablet

The Hub Mode setup process of google-pixel tablet also involves choosing your default music service where you can use Google Assistant to play back a song from a particular artist and the docked Pixel Tablet will immediately play the track with the music coming out of the dock. Unlike Amazon’s Echo Show smart home assistants, the Pixel Tablet supports YouTube Music as well!

Video and Phone Casting

Like some TVs running the Google TV or Android TV operating system, the Pixel Tablet has Chromecast functionality baked right in! This means you can open an app supporting Chromecast such as YouTube and beam the footage directly to the Pixel Tablet screen and continue watching from there! The best part? You don’t even need an Android phone to take advantage of this as the YouTube app in iOS supports casting. The feature goes both ways too as you can cast the Pixel Tablet screen to a Chromecast or Android TV.

Use Google Meet

Google’s video communication service Google Meet works with just about any Android device but the Pixel Tablet is one of the several in-house apps designed to take advantage of the tablet’s HD camera and Tensor G2 chip. Try to initiate a Google Meet call with another user and you’ll notice how the app will automatically adjust the lighting to what the camera sees and keep you on the center of the frame. You can optionally add cool 360-degree backgrounds too if you want to jazz things up. Google Workspace users should definitely get a kick out of these video quality improvements!

Make Video Calls with Zoom

Of course not everyone has Google Meet and if your friends and colleagues prefer a more popular platform like Zoom, you can easily switch to that by simply downloading Zoom from the Google Play Store. Video calls look just fine with the tablet’s 8-megapixel 1080p front-facing camera.

Edit Photos

If you don’t have one of those cool Google Pixel smartphones, you can leave it to the Pixel Tablet to scratch that Magic Eraser itch! Magic Eraser is a Pixel-exclusive feature that harnesses the Tensor chip and the Google Photos app to remove objects you don’t want in a picture. It’s not a perfect tool but when it works, it’s amazing just how quickly it works in just a single step! Several other nifty photo editing tricks are available too for the Pixel Tablet and other Pixel devices including the ability to unblur photos.

Read News and Books

The Pixel Tablet’s aspect ratio isn’t quite ideal for reading books in portrait orientation but it shouldn’t stop you from doing an occasional read via the Books section of the Google Play Store. You can keep track of the latest news updates via Google News or your favorite newsreader app. The fairly high-resolution 1600 × 2560 display is decent for reading in short bursts.

Watch Videos on Prime Video, YouTube, or Google TV

If you love binge-watching on YouTube or have a big movies and TV collection on Google Play, the Google Tablet pixel and its included speaker dock is one of the best devices for consuming that type of content. Being an Android tablet, you can install Amazon Prime Video or any other streaming service without worry. No locked ecosystems or walled gardens here!

What’s next for Google?

Google still has a lot of work to do in convincing folks to switch to Android for their tablet media consumption needs. But the Google Pixel Tablet represents a refreshing leap forward with its Hub Mode, bundled speaker dock, and tight Google Assistant integration. The best way to stomach that $499US/699 CAD price tag is to really put its many features to good use. Shop one from Google’s online store or at Amazon.

The post Everything Google Pixel Tablet Can Do appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Fitbit is synonymous with being active, and since it entered the smartwatch arena years ago, it was on track to be among the best brands available. That seemed to get a boost when Google acquired the brand in 2019, but things took a turn in 2022 and the future seems uncertain. Reviewing the Fitbit Versa 4 wasn’t just about exercise, it was an exercise unto itself in where the brand is headed. In this review we’ll take a look at what’s new with this model, how well the features work as well as a few things I think are missing. I’ll wrap things up by letting you know if I think you should invest in one, since there’s some big factors about that future to consider.

Fitbit Versa 4

3

Summary

It’s hard to recommend the Fitbit Versa 4 because it’s not clear Google cares as much about it as a smartwatch. In truth you’re probably better off getting one of Fitbit’s trackers if you’re loyal to the brand (not a full smart watch) since the Versa doesn’t really function as a full service smart watch.

Pros

• Steps & activity tracking is accurate
• Nice design
• Great sleep tracking
• Great battery life
• Tracks lots of body metrics

Cons

• Not a lot of value as a smartwatch
• Many features & integrations removed

• Get One from Amazon

Fitbit Versa 4: what you get

The Fitbit Versa 4 is something of a mystery, not so much because it’s unclear what it is, but more that it’s unclear where it’s going. It’s a smartwatch that functions a lot more like a simple activity tracker due in large part to decisions Google has made since acquiring Fitbit a few years ago. It retains many of the tracking features that made Fitbit so popular, so strapping this on your wrist means you can keep tabs on all your activity. The catch is that you give up a lot of the “smart” in this smartwatch by way of the missing third-party apps and other integrations that ultimately put a stop to the progress Fitbit was making as a serious player in this category. The results leave you with a choice to make. Does the Versa 4 offer enough on the activity tracking side to trump any concerns over other omissions?

Set up

As is the case with Fitbit smartwatches, the watch itself comes in the box with small and large straps to accommodate as many wrists as possible. Along with the charger, there’s a manual, where it’s suggested you fully charge the Versa 4 before setting it up. You need the Fitbit app (iOS or Android) where you can add the watch to get things started. It bears a strong resemblance to both the Versa 3 and Sense 2, except for a few differences in that it’s lighter and has a physical button instead of a haptic one. It lacks the same sensors the Sense 2 has, like the ECG (electrocardiogram), EDA (electrodermal skin temperature) or Body Response stress sensor, positioning the Versa 4 as more of a fitness watch than a health one.

What Fitbit Versa 4 will track

What you do get here includes the heart rate monitor, SpO2 sensor (for blood oxygen) and GPS for location tracking. The 5ATM protection ensures you can take the watch swimming, including in saltwater, covering pretty much all activity on the ground and in the water. You can easily swap the straps out for whatever material you want to wear at any given time. Straps for the previous Versa 3 and Sense 1 and 2 also fit, in case you’re moving on from one of those to this watch. With silicone, leather, metal and fabric options, it’s not hard to find a new strap for the Versa 4.

What’s missing from the Versa 4?

Since Google launched its own Pixel Watch, Fitbit’s smartwatches have paid a price. It cut off all third-party apps from the Versa 4, removing some of the great functionality previous models offered. No more integrating Spotify to listen to tunes phone-free, no Starbucks app to pay card-free, and no other apps to make things otherwise easier. Despite Google’s presence, you won’t get Google Assistant, leaving only Alexa as your voice assistant. The watch’s Wi-Fi connection is dormant, leaving only Bluetooth as a way to connect. That’s normal for smartwatches, only without Wi-Fi, it takes much longer to download and apply the latest updates. Instead, the only thing resembling an app experience falls to Google’s own products. Google Maps and Wallet are on board here, which is great for navigating as you walk and paying for stuff pretty much anywhere. All told, it’s a pretty barebones experience outside of Fitbit’s core features.

Hands-on with exercise and health tracking

That basically leaves exercise tracking as the main draw here. The Versa 4 gives you over 40 workouts to choose from, and will automatically track specific ones, like running, walking, hiking and cycling after 10 minutes of activity. For all the others, you would need to manually select and start them on the watch to keep track. Built-in GPS also lets you track distance and pace for outdoor activity, which works fairly well. Fitbit tracks Active Zone Minutes, which keep tabs on how much you’re in fat burn, cardio or peak heart rate zones while active, using a point system to earn a score for optimal fitness and health. Sleep tracking tells you how good your slumber was, including the SpO2 sensor tracking blood oxygen to give you a number every morning. You can track it any other time if you wish. All the activity, sleep and heart rate variability data funnels into what’s called a Daily Readiness Score to indicate how prepared you may be for the next day. It’s one way to know whether you can handle a tough workout or if you need to rest. While the overall tracking is good, you need to pay to get the full picture. Fitbit Premium unlocks features like the Readiness Score and more detailed sleep tracking, among other things. It’s also where you’ll find a big selection of guided workouts, meditation practices and recipes to complement your fitness goals and the smartwatch itself. Without the subscription, I’m not sure the watch is really worth it unless you’re on a different exercise routine and just want to track your activity with a Fitbit watch.

Using Fitbit with your phone

Given the lack of third-party apps, you have rely more on your phone, which kind of flies in the face of what a smartwatch is supposed to do. That’s especially obvious when paired with an iPhone, which limits integration to make it practically non-existent. For instance, you can’t make or take phone calls, talk through the speaker, access Siri as a voice assistant, or respond to any incoming notifications. You can see notifications, mind you, but can’t act upon them. That’s not the case with an Android phone, where you can use the Versa 4 for calls, access Alexa and use Google Wallet. Fitbit Premium is no different between iOS and Android, so the tracking features and content availability are agnostic to your mobile platform of choice. But when it comes to the extras, the gap is significant.

Battery life

Battery life is no different, either, lasting up to a week per charge if you leave the always-on display off and only seldomly use GPS. Use GPS more often and you shave it down to about four or five days, depending on your usage. That’s quite good by smartwatch standards, though you’ll need to keep the charger handy, since it’s a proprietary one.

Overall review: Fitbit Versa 4

It’s hard to recommend the Fitbit Versa 4 because it’s not clear Google cares as much about it as a smartwatch. The company already announced that all Fitbit users will need to migrate to Google accounts by 2025, essentially absorbing the whole Fitbit ecosystem into Google’s own. That could also spell the end of Fitbit’s smartwatch business, leaving the brand to focus on fitness trackers, while the Pixel Watch takes over on the smartwatch front. There is no way Google will bring back third-party apps to this device, nor will all the other missing features suddenly make a comeback. The smartwatch category is simply too competitive, so if you want the Fitbit experience, you’re better off paying less for a Charge 5 tracker. **A note about Affiliate Links: TechGadgetsCanada & TechGadgetsInternational is supported by our readers. Occasionally I will include affiliate links in my reviews. I do this partly for convenience of the reader (since I’ll almost always include a link to the company website or similar anyway) in case you want to read more or purchase, but I also may get a small commission from the click, which helps me keep the blog running. If you choose to use this link I thank you greatly for supporting the blog. There’s no obligation or cost to you for using these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Design

The Google Pixel Fold support a more compact form factor, reminiscent of the Oppo Find N2, but slightly larger and thinner. Its internal screen spans 7.6 inches, while the external screen measures 5.8 inches.

The hinge mechanism is noticeable in the design as Google opted to position many of the folding hardware components above and below the middle, resulting in larger bezels when the phone is unfolded.

Hardware

The hardware specifications of the Google Pixel Folding phone are impressive, bordering on flagship level. The external 5.8-inch display offers a 1080p 120Hz OLED panel with over 1500 nits peak brightness. On the inside, there’s a 7.6-inch OLED display also featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and slightly over 1440p resolution.

The phone is powered by Google’s Tensor G2 chip, which has been in the Pixel lineup for some time. It also has 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, with a 4,821mAh battery, which, while slightly smaller than the Pixel 7 Pro, presents a potential concern given the larger and brighter display. However, the full battery performance can only be accurately assessed through real-world usage and comprehensive reviews.

Camera

The Google pixel Folding phone is one of the most anticipated smartphones of the year, and one of its most talked-about features is its camera system. The Google  pixel Fold has a triple-lens rear camera system that consists of a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide sensor, and a 48MP telephoto sensor. The front-facing camera is a 10.8MP sensor.

Here is a more detailed look at each of the Google pixel Fold’s camera lenses:

Main sensor: The main sensor is a 50MP sensor that has a wide aperture of f/1.8. This allows it to capture a lot of light, which is important for taking photos in low-light conditions. The main sensor also has optical image stabilization (OIS), which helps to reduce blur caused by camera shake.

Ultrawide sensor: The ultrawide sensor is a 12MP sensor that has a wide field of view of 120 degrees. This allows you to capture more of the scene in your photos. The ultrawide sensor also has a wide aperture of f/2.2, which allows it to capture a lot of light.

Telephoto sensor: The telephoto sensor is a 48MP sensor with a focal length of 48mm. This allows you to zoom in on distant objects without losing much detail. The telephoto sensor also has OIS, which helps to reduce blur caused by camera shake.

Front-facing camera: The front-facing camera is a 10.8MP sensor that has a wide aperture of f/2.2. This allows it to capture a lot of light, which is important for taking selfies in low-light conditions. The front-facing camera also has OIS.

The pixel Fold’s camera system is also supported by several software features, such as Night Sight, Portrait Mode, and Magic Eraser. Night Sight is a feature that allows you to take sharp, clear photos in low-light conditions. Portrait Mode is a feature that allows you to blur the background of your photos, giving them a professional look. Magic Eraser is a feature that allows you to remove unwanted objects from your photos.

Software

Software plays a crucial role in making a phone exceptional, especially in the case of foldable devices. The Pixel Fold incorporates all the renowned Pixel features such as Google Assistant, Now Playing, Hold-for-Me, and Material You—an aesthetically customizable version of Android seen in previous Pixel devices.

The Pixel Fold will run Android 14 out of the box. Google has also worked on optimizing various apps for the foldable display, collaborating with developers to ensure apps make the most of the larger screen real estate. While there have been concerns about the software experience on Android tablets in the past, Google seems to have addressed these issues, providing side-by-side multitasking and introducing new app management features.

How much will the Pixel Fold cost?

The Google Pixel Fold phone comes with a substantial price tag of $1,799. At this price point, it competes with other premium foldable smartphones on the market. The Pixel Fold is available in two color options: Obsidian and Porcelain.

Will Pixel Fold be available in Canada?

Bad news for Canadians and others around the globe; it’s not being sold everywhere, and Canada in particular is being left out of this launch. Why? Google has said they don’t see a big enough market for the device here; yet. Even so, we expect to be able to get hands on with it close to launch. It’s available for preorder here and expected to ship sometime in June.

Google Pixel Fold: everything you need to know

The Google Pixel Fold phone debuts as a refreshing contender in the foldable smartphone market. Boasting compelling features, an appealing design, and flagship specifications, it delivers a unique and immersive user experience.

Despite a higher price tag, noticeable bezels, and a prominent crease, Google’s exceptional software enhancements compensate for these drawbacks, offering a delightful user experience.

As Google’s inaugural foray into foldable devices, the Pixel Fold shows great promise, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a cutting-edge smartphone experience.

The post Introducing Google Pixel Fold: The future of foldable phones? appeared first on TechGadgetsCanada.com.

Google’s annual smartphone renewal season has arrived, and as Google typically does, it’s launched a new springtime budget smartphone: the Google Pixel new 7a is now available. While that’s good news, the even bigger news is that Google is also about to launch both a foldable phone—the Pixel Fold—AND a tablet closer to July that promises to kill off the Nest Home Hub gadgets by making them way better. Watch for the Pixel Tablet with its detachable speaker dock coming soon. Meantime, onto the device that is immediately available: the review of the Pixel 7a smartphone. I was provided with a demo version of the phone to test out and review to see what’s new, how it works, and whether it might be a good choice for your next Android smartphone.

What’s new with Google Pixel 7a?

The key upgrades to the Pixel 7a include the addition of wireless charging, a memory upgrade from 6GB on the 6a to the same 8GB the Pixel 7 has. There’s also an upgraded chipset for a speedier, smoother performing phone and Android 13 comes preloaded on the device.

My hands-on video review

Also new: Face Unlock comes to the Pixel 7a, which wasn’t on the 6a but is on the 7. One of the biggest improvements is to the smartphone’s camera; gaining major ground over the 6a and even bettering the Pixel 7 some.

In short, the updates list is relatively short, but even these incremental improvements add value to the Pixel 7a. Let’s dig in…

Camera upgrades

On the hardware side there are a few improvements that should make the photos taken by the Pixel 7a a lot higher in quality. That’s saying a lot since in my reviews of every Pixel phone so far, al Pixel phones have always owned the road when it comes to great cameras.

When comparing the pgoogle pixel 7a to the Pixel 6a, the front camera has jumped up from 8MP to 13 MP and nudged a slightly wider field of view too. But it’s the rear camera array which is really substantial; while the Pixel 6a had a 12.2 MP dual-pixel wide camera, the 7a builds on that and goes further with its 64 MP Quad camera set up.

New on the Pixel 7a’s camera are some of the fun software tools that exist on other Pixel phones. You can now use Face Unblur (which sharpeners blurry photos and portraits automatically) on the 7a, as well as a new Long Exposure Mode.

Making a return are popular Pixel photo features including better low light photography with Night Sight, Magic Eraser (which is like built in free photoshop and Real Tone for better and more inclusive skin tone accuracy. These aren’t new features but they are new to the budget 7a phone.

Google Pixel New 7a Key Features

What are the key features that make this phone stand out?

Budget-friendly

Pixel 7a is the budget smartphone offering from Google so it rings in at a much smaller price than the full version Pixel 7. Selling for $599 CAD (compared to the Pixel 7’s $799CAD), it’s one of the most affordable smartphones where you don’t need to dial down your wish list very much.

It’s available in Charcoal, Sea, Snow, (and Google Store exclusive) Coral.

More durable

Google claims Pixel 7a is Google’s most durable A-Series phone yet. The test for this is usually faceplanting off a bike and seeing how it fares, but since I’m still upright, we’ll have to take Google’s word for this for now. Specifically the Pixel 7a can handle water and dust with IP67 rating against water and dirt, and the screen is scratch resistant, featuring Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3.

Better chip: meet Tensor G2

Google Tensor G2 is the newest offering of the processor custom-built for Pixel. It’s the same chip that’s in Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro meaning you’re getting an equally powerful phone for a way smaller price. Users should see a faster, more efficient, more secure phone, though since we’re talking about slivers of milliseconds, I can’t really measure and verify it for you. I can only say the phone is fast and responsive.

Long live the battery

If you’re wondering is google a good phone? here is your answer… Google’s marketing has touted “all day battery” lasting over 24 hours. I can say that from reviewing many Pixel phones, the battery life is outstanding, and you can stretch it further by using the existing Extreme Battery Saver mode feature. More specifically the 7a has a 4385mah battery which is pretty much identical to the 6a and 7. From my experience, Google phones have always been extremely long lasting in the battery department, and generally far out do the lacklustre performance of an iPhone.

Google helps you with life

Another set of features in the google Pixel  new 7a are the ones that are less flashy but still helpful; things like Call Assistant for call screening which lets you employ the Google Assistant to pickup unknown calls so you don’t have to sit through a sales pitch.

Material You also makes a return, which lets you fully customize your phone screen and app icons too.

Overall review: Google Pixel 7a smartphone

Overall, the new Google Pixel 7a smart phone isn’t going to blow any minds with unheard-of new features or great leaps in technology, but it is a solid smart phone with plenty of meaningful upgrades.

On the pro side, you are essentially getting the Pixel 7 smart phone at a much lower cost. Sure the 7a is missing some of the ‘big deal’ features and specs that make the Pixel 7 special, but in my opinion, you’re not really going to miss them. The ideal buyer for the seven a smart phone is someone who’s a bit more budget conscious and the type of person who might be more inclined to spend less on a smart phone, up front and upgrade more often.
The camera is way better… with that said, it’s the kind of better that’s hard to measure incrementally, but the end results are quite dazzling. Plus Magic Eraser is my favourite smartphone camera feature on ANY phone ever.

The google pixel new 7a is fast and responsive with a beautiful screen, colourful display and a tonne of customization options.

So what are the downsides? Honestly, it’s hard to find a lot. I did find the fingerprint scanner to be a bit less than speedy, often requiring me to reposition my finger to unlock the phone. It’s hard to say, if that’s just me not being used to precisely where to place it or that the under the glass scanner is not as responsive as it could be. Either way with multiple ways to unlock the phone such as a pin code or facial recognition it hardly seems like a major concern. Truly, any major things you feel are missing from this phone can be remedied by simply boosting your budget and upgrading to the full-service Pixel 7or 7 pro.

Once again, I am more than happy to say I can heartily recommend the Google Pixel 7a budget smart phone to you.

When can I get Pixel Tablet?

The newly announced Google Pixel Tablet will be available in June or July. We are anticipating getting hands-on with it for reviews soon so stay tuned.

Can I get Pixel Fold in Canada?

Unfortunately, Google will not be releasing the Pixel Fold smartphone in Canada, I’m told by my contacts. Naturally, this is a huge disappointment for a lot of Pixel fans. Some of the thinking is that we might get the second generation model… Or Google will see what customer interest and sales figures in the United States are like before considering expanding up north. So for now that means you’ll either have to take a trip stateside and source one out… or hold on to your horses. The US store has it ready for preorder, delivering in August 2023. Pixel Fold will be selling for $1799US

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