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  • Everything You Need to Know About 5G!

    Everything You Need to Know About 5G!

    Today, just about every smartphone maker is working on 5G-ready phones.

    2020 is proof that the world is ready for 5G Phones. So, whether you’re buying now or simply reviewing to buy later, this blog post is for you.
    Buying a 5G mobile makes a lot of sense right now as several mobile operators, the likes of AT&T and T-Mobile, roll out 5G coverage to even more cities. This will give 5G phone users even more access to extra bandwidth and super-fast speeds.

    On top of that, you’ll also notice that the price premium of upgrading to a 5G phone is shrinking as we move further into 2020. Soon, there should be a wide range of 5G phones to pick from.

    5G Explained – What Is 5G?

    Simply put, 5G is successor to the common 4G/LTE, which also succeeded 3G. As you can see, there’s a pattern here. As more phones and networks become 5G-capable, more smartphone users will start enjoying faster download and upload speeds, among many other benefits 5G has to offer.

    The speed of the 5G network connection depends more on the device you are using, the network you are on, and the location. But there are always improvements being made. There’s a time when you will be able to download 4K movies on your device in a matter of minutes or stream 4K movies on Netflix or Hulu on the road.

    However, 5G isn’t just about the connection speed. It’s also about your phone’s capacity and the ability to get a stronger signal even in crowded areas. That’s to say, you shouldn’t lose or have a slow connection when you are at a crowded music festival or stadium.

    Why You Should Get A 5G Phone Today
    Thanks to the super-fast technological enhancements, 5G is no longer a thing for the future. It’s here, and now. And the new networking standard has come with a set of perks that will wow even the reserved smartphone users.

    Here’s why you should get a 5G handset today:

    • 5G Is Faster Than 4G/LTE
    This is perhaps the main reason why you should get a 5G-enabled phone today. 5G networks deliver super-fast speeds with lower latency compared to its 4G counterpart. You will notice significant marked improvements in both download and upload speeds on 5G networks than 4G networks. With 5G networks clocking speeds of up to 1Gb/s or more, it’s safe to say you can download a full 3-hour film on a 5G phone in under a minute or two.

    • 5G Is Becoming More Widespread
    5G coverage is becoming easier to find as time goes by. Network operators like T-Mobile are working round the clock to boost its 5G network coverage throughout the nation. It already covers over 5,000 cities, and over 200 million people have access to it. And that figure is set to expand even faster once the T-Mobile Sprint Merger goes through. So, if your area doesn’t have 5G coverage yet, it will soon enough.

    • 5G Phones Are Plentiful
    As aforementioned, smartphone manufacturers are producing even more 5G phones and setting them on the market. When Verizon turned the switch on its 5G service in Minneapolis and Chicago last April, there wasn’t even a single phone that had 5G-support built in to use on this first commercially available network. Smartphone users had to but the Moto Z3 and a 5G Moto Mod attachment to connect with this network.

    Today, however, you’ll find a handful of 5G phones coming out almost monthly, from Samsung, LG, and OnePlus. But the first 5G-enabled phones were usually limited to specific areas and were very pricey as well. It’s quite a different story now as most of the latest smartphones feature 5G and work with almost every carrier.

    • 5G Is Future-Proof
    Another noteworthy fact about 5g phones is that most of them are arriving this year. And they use Qualcomm’s X55 5G modem. This modem can reach speeds of up to 7.5Gb/s, which is just insane even for 2020 and can work comfortably with different 5G networks without a cinch.GG

    Now, on to the meat of this excerpt. Here’s a detailed list of the best 5G phones you should consider buying in 2020:

    1. Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus
    At the top of our list is the S20 Plus, which most of its users claim is just the best phone overall in 2020. It’s also the best 5G phone you can get in the market today since it works on all 5G networks. It supports AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. So, you’ll be supported and connected no matter which 5G network you’re on. The Snapdragon 865 processor makes 5G connectivity possible and delivers performance that matches or surpasses any other Android phone.

    It also has a QHD AMOLED screen that lets you get a 120Hz refresh rate, allowing for smoother scrolling an even better mobile gaming experience. Samsung made several significant improvements on its phone’s camera as well, with a 64MP telephoto lens that stands out for its super-crisp zoom shots.

    Perhaps the biggest know users realize when buying the S20 Plus is its price tag. At $1,199, you know this isn’t a device for people on a budget. However, you get a lot more from the phone for that hefty price. The 120HZ refresh rate has also been known to impact battery life, especially when using power-intensive apps or games.

    2. OnePlus 8 Pro
    Next in line is the OnePlus 8 Pro. This is one of the best Android phones on the market today, and it costs $300 less than the Galaxy S20 Pro. However, the 8 Pro is more limited compared to its rival phones for 5G connectivity purposes. The 8 Pro is only available unlocked. Therefore, you cannot buy it through any specific wireless carrier.

    But more significantly, the 8 Pro works only on sub-6HZ-based 5G networks. As a result, it cannot benefit from mmWave-based 5G. So, Verizon customers will have to shop for a different phone as Verizon relies heavily on mmWave for its connectivity.

    However, this is less of a concern, especially on T-Mobile, which was built on sub-6Ghz 5G. So, if this handset is compatible with your carrier, you will have one of the most powerful Android phones with a smooth and vibrant 120Hz screen, a ridiculously fast charging speed, and very good quad cameras. Moreover, Google is constantly sending upgrades and security updates to this phone. So, you know you are in great hands.

    3. Samsung Galaxy Fold 2
    Inasmuch as 5G phones may be getting cheaper, the Fold 2 seems to be heading in the opposite direction, with a market price of $1,999, this is perhaps the most expensive 5G phone on the market today. But Samsung never disappoints, especially when it comes to exclusive features and value, and the Fold 2 is beaming with them.

    First, this handset has the Snapdragon 865 Plus processor, which connects to any 5G network and delivers superior performance. The Fold 2 opens up to a 7.6-inch screen, which is perfect for video streaming over 5G’s faster network speeds. The screen also allows its user to multitask easily without a cinch.

    In addition to being pricey, the Fold 2 isn’t a slender handset, especially when folded up. You will have to carry it around in your coat pocket instead. But overall, this is the best foldable phone you can find in the market today. And It also happens to be 5G-enabled.

    4. LG Velvet
    The LG Velvet is another fantastic 5G phone and sells for less than $600 today. It features a stylish design and comes in a bright, colorful display that shames its more expensive rivals. The LG Velvet supports two 5G networks, which are Verizon and AT&T. It also has a Snapdragon 765G processor that delivers a solid performance for the price. Its cameras are also pretty slick. But somehow, they don’t work as well on low light.

    This handset works with both Verizon and AT&T. There’s a T-Mobile version that’s set for unveiling soon. Customers will also have to pay an extra $50 premium for models that use LG’s high-speed 5G signal. Either way, you’ll have the luxury of toting around with one of the best 5G handsets currently available. Recent customers also applaud its decent performance, battery life, and cameras. And the fact that it is 5G-enabled is a bonus.

    5. Motorola Edge
    The Motorola Edge is another top-notch 5G phone that supports all network programs. That’s because it comes unlocked, allowing its users to use any 5G network with it. It also has one of the best batteries in the market and can last up to 12hours when its screen’s refresh rate is set to 60HZ. The 90Hz refresh rate consumes more power but doesn’t impact the battery life too much.

    On the downside, the Motorola Edge suffers in the camera section. Therefore, if mobile photography is your forte, you should look elsewhere. But where it lacks in one area, it makes up for in another. This is a great 5G phone option, especially for someone who uses his/her phone all the time and doesn’t want to deal with issues of their phones dying on them.

    6. Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra
    Here’s another amazing Samsung Galaxy flagship whose 5G networks support T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon. Priced at $1,399, the S20 Ultra also boasts plenty of features, with 5G being one of them. Overall, this is the handset to turn to if money is no object to you.

    The S20 Ultra also has a 120Hz refresh rate, which allows for a much smoother and immersive experience when using the phone. It also has a 5,000mAh battery that allows more uptime even when handling power-intensive applications or games. Its quad-lens rear cameras are excellent for taking some of the best pictures on a handset. And the powerful Space Zoom works up to 10x.

    7. The Motorola Edge Plus
    Finally, but not the least on the list is the Motorola Edge Plus. This is just the ultimate 5G mobile phone for Verizon customers. That’s mainly because it was built to fly on the carrier’s mmWave network and supports Big Red’s sub-6Hz deployment.
    Unfortunately, the Motorola Edge Plus is only available on Verizon, meaning it’s not the 5G phone for everyone. Overall, you will be impressed with this handset’s performance, powerful speakers, and display. Its cameras may also not measure up to its competition, and its battery life isn’t the best in the industry either.

    However, if you want the best 5G experience using a handset on Verizon, this is your best option. It’s currently valued at $999, which most people would consider as too pricey. But you could also go for the Motorola Edge unlocked, which is a less expensive version though you will have to deal with the less powerful processor and smaller battery too.

    Overall, the Motorola Edge Plus offers great performance for a 5G phone, has a headphone jack, which is a blessing in some of these recent phones, and a booming audio. It’s one handset you should consider buying to get the most out of your 5G network experience.

    5G Phones Aren’t Just for Enthusiasts Anymore
    From the above excerpt, it’s evident that 5G coverage is growing at an exponential rate. However, it’s not yet to the point where you can say 5G phones are affordable and owned by a vast majority of smartphone users. But what we know so far is that the smartphone market is already trying to adjust its current and future handsets to feature 5G connectivity or miss out as everyone else moves forward.

    Very soon, it will get to a point where every phone released in the market is 5G-enabled. Anything less won’t sell as much. Some of these phones also have great hardware and should be set to serve you for several years before you need another upgrade. But for the prices they fetch, this should be obvious.
    Overall, having a 5G phone now is more of a need than a want. A year from now, 5G will be a great side-benefit. So, better start investing in a handset that’s set to serve you for the next few years and guarantee you the use of the fastest network speeds yet.

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  • Review: Ready to Switch up Your Mobile Phone Plan?

    Review: Ready to Switch up Your Mobile Phone Plan?

    It is never too soon to think about switching up your mobile data plan. Most carriers update their plans frequently, and the chances are high that you are not getting as much value as you should be from your current plan. Most customers ‘set it and forget it’, when they could be paying less AND getting more value from their service.
     
    Make sure your plan is optimized to your usage habits and data needs. Check out some of the current carriers, plans and features below:

    Overview:

    1. Verizon consistently offers the most reliable coverage out of all the wireless providers.
      • Verizon Get More Unlimited: Best unlimited plan—$90/month
      • Verizon Do More Unlimited: Best coverage phone plan—$80/month
    2. Visible Wireless has made a big play in the prepaid wireless space with unlimited plan that costs $40 a month. Large discounts are also available when additional lines are added to a family plan.
      • Visible Wireless: Best prepaid plan—$40/month
      • Visible Wireless: Best family plan—$100/month for 4 lines
    3. Metro by T-Mobile currently offers the best value for family prepaid plans.
      • Metro by T-Mobile $50 Unlimited Plan: Best prepaid family plan—$90/month for 3 lines


    Summary: 

    Best overall mobile plan: The Verizon Do More Unlimited plan offers everything. With amazing coverage, speed plus HD streaming and 22 GB of 4G LTE data each month, it was an easy pick for best mobile phone plan overall.

    Best prepaid plan: When it comes to prepaid- Visible wireless offers unlimited features and services on the best network for $40 a month. All of it combines for great value. However, be mindful of data slowing down over time, which has been reported by some users.

    Best prepaid family plan:  You will spend $50 a month if you choose Metro by T-Mobile unlimited plan. However, your costs are reduced to $30 a month for every additional line you add. The more people you have in your family- the better the savings.

    Best family plan:  Visible wireless is great for family plans because of the large discount when multiple lines are added. You cost can be reduced to $25 a line for unlimited data with enough people on the plan

    Best unlimited plan: The Verizon Get More unlimited plan offers 75 GB of data and comes with 5G data access and HD streaming. It’s expensive, but you get what you pay for.

    So when was the last time you reviewed your plan and usage to ensure you’re getting the best value? There’s no time like the present~ Check into it!

     


  • Major Phone Providers to Stop Selling Your Location

    Major Phone Providers to Stop Selling Your Location

    Data brokers have been accessing phone location services for as long as cell phones have had location tracking. However, in the our modern, breach-sensitive era, such actions make customers understandably upset. Recently, a company called Securus was revealed to be offering a service to law enforcement that allowed them to track the live location of cellphone users. Securus depends upon information from LocationSmart, a data aggregator. Securus actions fell under scrutiny from Senator Ron Wyden from Oregon, who called on the major phone providers to cut LocationSmart off. 

    Responses from Phone Providers 

    Verizon, AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile have all made statements of varying intensity that they planned to cut off data brokers like LocationSmart. As the FCC investigates the Securus situation, the major phone providers are looking to distance themselves from the situation. Securus, notably, requires nothing more than a vague “court order” (that they don’t check) to access their database. As such, the legality of the service is dubious at best. Law enforcement agencies could easily look up individuals based on their phone and track them without a warrant. This situation is clearly a problem, and the major networks’ attempts to stymie Securus are a step in the right direction. 

    Further complicating matters, a recent “bug” in LocationSmart’s system allowed people to access the location of all phones in their database. Senator Wyden called on the major networks to cut these data brokers off and protect their customers. For their part, they have all made moves to do so.  

    Verizon has confirmed it is terminating contracts with LocationSmart and ZumiGo, another location broker. AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile have all also promised that they will stop providing this data to aggregators. Originally, the location services were meant to be used for things like roadside assistance and fraud prevention. However, Securus accessing user locations without customer consent is a major breach of user privacy.  

    How Soon Will These Changes Go Into Effect?

    The major providers have stated that they won’t be cutting off the location services immediately. According to them, those services offer some positive benefits that they don’t want to interrupt. However, if the cost for small conveniences is the loss of privacy, perhaps those conveniences are unimportant. In any event, Senator Wyden’s actions seem to have brought about a change for the better. The large telecom companies likely either didn’t know or care about this data misuse. Wyden’s public challenge that they should tighten consumer protections moved them to actions, though, and that’s commendable. 

  • Tech Throwback: The T-Mobile Sidekick

    Tech Throwback: The T-Mobile Sidekick

    I like to take a look at where I’ve been to evaluate where Im going. Technology is cyclical after all… wait no its not. That said I still like all the feels that come rushing back like a flood of nostalgia every time I get my hand on the tech I grew up with. Im going to go back periodically and take a looking at the stuff that used to blow our hair back and get our minds rolling. Some of these device blew up and changed the world, some where ahead of their time and some just fell flat and became colossal failures. Today I’ve got my hands on the T-Mobile Sidekick

     

    The Danger Hiptop, also re-branded as the T-Mobile Sidekick, Mobiflip and Sharp Jump is a GPRS/EDGE/UMTS smartphone produced by Danger Incorporated  from 2002 to 2010. Released on October 1, 2002, the original Hiptop was unique compared to all other hardware versions. All the units, from the beginning, have featured “Menu”, “Back”, “Jump” and other keys accessible even when the unit was closed. The Hiptop also featured a speaker which is used for device sounds but not telephone. Along the top edge of the phone bezel is an infrared transceiver. The headset jack serves a dual purpose, as it is also used for the accessory camera. A later revision of the Hiptop upgraded its screen from a monochrome LCD to a color LCD viewable with or without the backlight on

     

    Powering Back Up the T-mobile Sidekick

    Like I like to do I purchased one of the original T-mobile Sidekick. First thing I notice is how thick it is. It is girthy to say the least, its like holding 3 iPhones. The flip screen is still snappy. This was a one of a kind phone, no one else even mocked it. The spinning rotating screen is still unique with its 180 degree flip to reveal the key board. The keyboard is nice and very well spaced out. For text messaging this phone was way ahead of its time and is still probably the best and most efficient SMS device.

    This phone is the original basic smartphone. It has still an advanced for the time but basic phone OS. The best way to describe it is to say its very PDAish but with a killer keyboard. The picture quality, let talk about it, its rubbish. black and white and grainy. Im actually terrified that some hipster will find one of these and turn it in to the next hipster camera trend. Posting terrible pictures is just the kind of thing that is up their ally.

    The Final Thought

    I never had the Sidekick, it was a T-mobile exclusive and I was a Cingular guy. This was the most experience I had with the sidekick. I can say it is interesting, fun, quirky, qwerty and perfect for its time. Its success was limited to the T-mobile network which was not great. Many other instances of the T-mobile Sidekick was released in subsequent years, some of them didn’t even kick out.  The last thing Ill say about this device is just like its most famous users, Hanna Montana and Paris Hilton, it belongs in 2003. Lets leave it right there.

  • Sprint Plans to Merge with T-Mobile

    Sprint Plans to Merge with T-Mobile

    Two major wireless carriers in the United States are about to merge into one company. The combined company will be called T-Mobile and will be based in Bellevue, Washington. The current T-Mobile CEO John Legere will run the company, and T-Mobile’s current COO Mike Sievert will be the new company’s COO and President.

    Merger Plans to Lower Prices

    By combining into one company, Sprint and T-Mobile believe they will be able to lower their prices. They also hope they will be able to pursue overtaking their competition, AT&T and Verizon.

    T-Mobile and Sprint have been in talks for quite some time. Sprint originally broached the idea of buying T-Mobile back in 2014, but nothing came of their proposal. Talks between the two companies resumed, however, in May of 2017.

    Both Sprint and T-Mobile batted the ball back and forth on which company would buy which. Sprint’s offer was tabled in October 2017, followed by an offer by T-Mobile that failed in November 2017.

    But it looks like Sprint and T-Mobile have finally come to a decision. CNBC said that the two companies were closing in on a merger on Friday. The merger is worth $26 billion.

    Deutsche Telekom, T-Mobile’s majority owner, will hold a 42 percent stake in the new company, and Sprint majority owner SoftBank will hold 27 percent. Public stakeholders will hold the rest. Sprint CEO Marcelo Claire and SoftBank SEO Masayoshi Son will sit on the new company’s board.

    This merger comes in an opportune time when T-Mobile and Sprint are ready to send out their new 5G network across the U.S. The new company will serve almost 100 million customers.