Phew – in terms of product launches, this week has been one of the busiest so far this May, with big names such as Apple and Google unveiling new tech that will no doubt satisfy fans and maybe even tempt a few newcomers to switch over. If you’ve missed out on the action, then we’ve compiled this quick list of headlines and highlights to keep you updated – let’s begin!
Apple Introduces New iPads
Starting off with the big guns, Apple has finally unveiled the 2024 editions of the iPad Pro and iPad Air, which both pack upgrades to performance, and are available in two different sizes each at 11 and 13 inches. The new iPads were also launched alongside the M4 chip, which was surprising to see make its debut in an Apple product that’s not a Mac. For pricing, the 11-inch iPad Air still starts at £599 with the 13-inch iPad Air is coming in at £749, while the the 11-inch iPad Pro starts at £999 for the Wi-Fi model, and £1,199 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. Meanwhile, the 13-inch iPad Pro starts at £1,299 for the Wi-Fi model, and £1,499 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model.
The Pixel 8a Sneaks onto the Scene
We say “sneak” because Google rather discreetly announced the Pixel 8a without any major fanfare, and days before the predicted Google I/O unveiling. The phone does come with a lot of new upgrades over previous A-series Pixel phones, such as a brighter and smoother OLED display at 2,000 nits and 120Hz, up to seven years of software support, Google’s latest AI features, and a matte-design finish on the rear panel. Priced at £499, the phone was launched alongside the “re-released” Pixel tablet, which now costs £399 (cheaper than its 2023 launch price) without the bundled dock charger.
Meet the TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro
Another new launch this week, Mobvoi’s 2024 follow-up to last year’s TicWatch Pro 5 likewise comes with some new features. These include a sapphire glass cover for the touchscreen, improvements to the rotating crown for a more fluid experience, and a redesigned strap which feels a bit more substantial than the one on the Pro 5. The watch also features a new Snore Detection feature, in addition to an expanded selection of workout modes, all for 90 hours of battery life on a single charge. The TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro costs $349.99, and can be purchased via Mobvoi’s official website, as well as retail partners including Amazon.
HMD Global Revives the Nokia 3210
Just like the 3310 revival from meany years ago, HMD Global recently introduced a new 2024 edition of the Nokia 3210. The new model keeps the familiar design of the original but upgrades it with a bigger 2.4-inch color display, a 2MP camera with LED flash, and features including Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C charging, and a long-lasting 1450 mAh battery. It also supports 4G connectivity, expandable storage up to 32GB via micro SD card, and features a 3.5mm headphone jack. The phone runs the S30+ platform with essential apps and the iconic Snake game, and comes in Scuba Blue, Y2K Gold, and Grunge Black for a starting price of £74.99.
MediaTek’s New Dimensity 9300+ Chip is Here
MediaTek recently introduced the latest addition to its Dimensity-series chips with the new 9300+. The company says that the chip features an “All-Big-Core” design and focuses on AI processing for tasks like image and music generation directly on-device. It also supports high refresh rate displays and includes anti-burn in tech for AMOLED screens, as well as support for HDR visuals and hardware-accelerated ray tracing. The chip also boasts improved camera features with 18-bit RAW ISP and AI-powered video enhancements, and is expected to launch in devices from Vivo and IQOO this month.
