#Opinion - Page 2
199 Stories
Paywalled Subreddits Are Coming to Reddit and I’m Worried
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Reddit's recent hint at introducing exclusive paid subreddits into the platform has taken the community by storm, causing users to question the integrity of the platform. The information popped up during Reddit's Q2 2024 earnings call, when CEO Steve Huffman talked about the future of the platform. While Reddit's open-source nature is what has been allowing it to onboard more and more users every year, this move is a bit alarming.
That’s It, I Think I Have Found My New Favorite Android Tablet
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The OnePlus Pad 2 offers solid performance with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, a superb multimedia viewing experience with its impressive display + speaker combo, and a commendable battery backup to support it all. There's barely any room left for complaints, allowing it to easily be one the best all-rounder Android tablet I've used in a long time. The starting price of Rs 39,999 is also not that big of an ask taking into consideration all that it has to offer.
I Tried the New Pixel Weather App, and It’s a Breath of Fresh Air
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The new Pixel 9 Weather app strikes the perfect blend of minimalism and functionality. So, while it may not be the more aesthetic weather app in comparison to its predecessor, it's the more useful one. The big and bold font, interchangeable weather panels and a super easy way to search and save locations make it one hell of an app that I'm really looking forward to using on the upcoming Pixel 9.
It Ends with Us Review: A Stellar Tale of Love, Loss, and Liberation
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Colleen Hoover's It Ends With Us is now live in its theatrical adaptation in cinemas near you and here is our review for the movie!
Is the Minecraft Mace an OP Weapon? Here’s What I Think
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Mace is the new Minecraft 1.21 weapon that is fairly OP. Its pros include high damage output that's not capped, powerful complementary enchantments and the highly risky but fun and potentially strong combo with the elytra. The cons of the mace are the pure rareness of the heavy core item, the difficulty of mastering it and the fact that it's useful in open areas only. Personally, I believe the mace is very well balanced. It doesn't overshadow the other features nor is it redundant. Overall, the mace is a great addition to the Minecraft 1.21 update.
Wuthering Waves has released a list of improvements and features that will be added to version 1.2 and one of them is auto regenerating Waveplate Crystals. Once the Waveplates cap is reached, Waveplate Crystals are automatically generated and can be used to replenish Waveplates later. Players can have 480 Waveplate Crystals at the maximum.
Nothing Phone 2a Plus Review: Well, That Doesn’t Add Up
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The Nothing Phone 2a Plus is just a glorified Phone 2a, with a couple of upgrades that just don't hit the spot. The slightly better processor and design changes don't make it the upgrade that we have been eagerly waiting for. Since the competition offers a better display, bigger battery with faster charging and significantly better performance at that price segment, it makes the Phone 2a Plus lose out to those very phones as well.
Nothing Phone 2a Plus vs Phone 2a Comparison: Is Plus Really an Addition
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From the looks of it, the Nothing Phone 2a Plus will not be remembered as a device that left its own unique mark in the segment. It's simply not a good upgrade over the Phone 2a. The design changes, although aesthetically pleasing, are not enough to justify its existence as an upgrade. It offers the same display size and resolution, same battery capacity with only 5W more of fast charging, and a processor that's only ever so better on paper.
OnePlus Watch 2R vs Watch 2: What’s the Difference?
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The OnePlus Watch 2R has launched for Rs 17,999 in the Indian market, making it Rs 7,000 cheaper than the OnePlus Watch 2. However, it renders the Watch 2 pointless in the subcontinent, since it arrives with the same health sensors, OS and processor. The only difference lies in the design, where the Watch 2R shines as well due to its chronographic dial. However, the Watch 2 sports a more superior build quality, thanks to being made out of stainless steel and undergoing military-grade testing.
OnePlus Nord 4 vs Motorola Edge 50 Pro: Mid-Range Battle Winner?
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If you're in the market for a smartphone under Rs 30,000, the Nord 4 is definitely the practical choice. From a better display to a significantly superior processor, it's a very versatile device. However, if you're looking for a cleaner software experience and slightly better cameras, Moto Edge 50 Pro is the way to go. Both are good phones, aimed at two different userbases.
CMF Phone 1 Misses out on the One Trick That Swayed Nothing Users
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In this read, we have discuss that the new CMF Phone 1 features a customizable back design letting you to change between different back panels. But with the official release of the phone, the company missed the opportunity of releasing a transparent back for the phone as it would help showcase the phone's inner workings, offer a unique aesthetic, and provide a subtle alternative to the current color options.
CMF Phone 1 Is Customizable and Fun, but at What Cost (Literally)
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The CMF Phone 1 is here and brings a customizable back panel to the table. That's not just it, and the modular dial on the device also doubles down as a lanyard, card holder and phone stand. Apart from the CMF Phone 1's default Black color out of the box, you can grab three other panels for Rs 1,499 each. As for the accessories, each of them cost Rs 749. Ultimately, considering all of this, you can't customize the Phone 1 for free.
CMF Phone 1 vs Realme P1: The Better Value-For-Money Phone?
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The CMF Phone 1 is finally here we pitted it against the Realme P1. Upon comparing the two phones, we realized that the Realme P1 is the more ideal choice if you're looking for a more value-for-money device. From a more practical design to commendable box contents and perks like a 3.5mm headphone jack, the Realme P1 is the more versatile device. Meanwhile, the CMF Phone 1 is the more ideal choice if you favor software experience over everything else.
CMF Phone 1 vs POCO X6: Who Wins This Budget Battle
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The CMF Phone 1 is here and it's 8GB/128GB variant priced at Rs 17,999 makes it battle it out with the POCO X6's 8GB/256GB variant which costs Rs 1,000 extra. For that extra money, you get a better display, slightly better cameras, a more snug design, a 3.5mm headphone jack, stereo speakers, and faster charging. On top of that, unlike the CMF Phone 1, the POCO X6 offers everything right in the box, from a fast charger and SIM ejector to a good quality silicone case.
8 Video Game Remakes I Can’t Wait to Play
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Video game remakes do irk a section of gamers out there, and I am one of them sometimes. However, I can't help but be excited for some of the best video remakes coming out in 2024. While remakes like Splinter Cell harken back to the old times, more recent ones like the Until Dawn remake will bring enhanced horror. Keep reading as I list them all down right here!
5 Reasons Why I’m Never Buying a Pixel Watch Again
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I switched to a Pixel Watch 2 from a Galaxy Watch4, and I regret it because the Fitbit app is inferior, the watch lacks essential features, a practical form factor, and competitors like Samsung and OnePlus are making better Wear OS smartwatches. One of the other reasons why I dislike the Pixel Watch is due to its extreme ecosystem lock-in.
Pixel Phones Get So Hot That Google Wants to Teach You How to Cool Them
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Google is working on Adaptive Thermal, a feature that could help bring the temperature of Pixels down. The feature will first trigger a notification when the device temperature reaches 49 degrees Celsius. If it reaches 55 degrees Celsius, Adaptive Thermal will warn users 30 seconds before it shuts down the phone to prevent any harm.
Realme GT 6 Review: The One to Beat
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The Realme GT 6 is probably the most polished all-rounder I have used in the under Rs 45,000 segment in a while. There's barely anything to complain about. You get a top-tier curved AMOLED LTPO display, a massive 5,500mAh battery with 120W fast charging support, and even the powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 under the hood. If that's not enough, it also brings forth a commendable camera setup to the table, that will barely let you down. The in-hand feel of the phone is also very premium. All things considered, this may just be the best all-rounder gaming phone in this segment.
I Downloaded This Viral Steam Game and It Had Me Click a Banana All Day!?
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After getting stressed with multiple games in 2024 I was looking for games to just relax to. Banana on Steam is a free game that lets you just click on a virtual Banana with a counter. The more you click, the more the numbers go up. Banana helped me relax and just have fun without thinking much about things I need to do. But the game also offers skins where some rare skins sells upto $500 on the Steam Community Market. Interesting combination eh?
I Tested an Open-Source Alternative to Windows Recall That Works on Any PC
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If you want to try out an alternative to Windows Recall, check out OpenRecall which is open-source and entirely free. It does all the processing locally and works on any x86 PC without an NPU. Keep in mind, the local vector database is not encrypted so that might be a major security concern.
Minecraft 1.21 Review: Does It Live Up to the Hype?
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The Minecraft 1.21 update is finally here it is now time to figure out if it's a good update. The 1.21 update adds 94 brand new features to the game, which is more than the previous one. Moreover, they mostly fit in with the Minecraft worlds, though some features may be a bit overpowered. While the community really wanted an End Update, that didn't happen. Though, the crafter and vault blocks are direct result of the given feedback. Unlike the 1.20 update, 1.21 focuses on improving one in-game system. To sum it up, I do believe that 1.21 update is fairly good for the game.
5 Things You Should Do First After Installing Minecraft 1.21
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Minecraft 1.21 update is here and we list five things you should do when you install it. First, you should make the new copper and tuff blocks and use them in builds. Then, you should make the crafter and learn about its mechanics. Furthermore, you should find the trial chamber and explore it to obtain amazing loot. Even better loot is available from ominous trials. This includes the heavy core, which you can make the mace with.
Here’s Why Elon Musk is Wrong About Apple Intelligence
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At the WWDC 2024 event, the Cupertino giant introduced Apple Intelligence and announced ChatGPT integration into Apple devices. Elon Musk took to X and went on a tirade against Apple for integrating ChatGPT and threatened to ban all Apple devices at his companies. That said, it appears Musk's argument is misplaced as Apple has developed its own AI models. Only when Apple's AI model fails to come up with a proper response, it seeks the user's permission before routing the query to ChatGPT.
Beyond Android: Why iOS 18 Icon Customization Is Better
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Apple's new app icon customization in iOS 18 is a step above what Android has to offer. Sure, they have taken a lot of inspiration from Android. But the fact that Apple doesn't restrict you to limited color options based on your wallpaper, is a major improvement. Here's why I think iOS 18 has nailed in icon customization.
6 Features Android Should Steal from iOS 18
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The Control Center optimizations are super useful, letting you even resizing controls now. In addition, you can also tint the home screen app and widget icons any color, alongside extending the dark and light mode themes onto them. Moreover, there's also limited contact access which lets you give apps access to only specific contacts and not the entire contact list. You also get to see Math Notes integrated within the Calculator and Notes app now, letting you solve equations by penning them down. Apple Intelligence features like summarized notifications and an enhanced Siri stole the show, giving the Google Assistant a run for its money!
Vivo X Fold 3 Pro vs OnePlus Open: Which Is the Better Foldable?
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There's no doubt that the latest Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is a more modern foldable in comparison to the OnePlus Open. From bigger and brighter displays to a bigger battery and faster charging, the X Fold 3 Pro has a lot of good things going for it. However, the one area where OnePlus Open undeniably shines is the software experience. OxygenOS is understandably superior to the FuntouchOS 14, and is also backed by an additional year of major OS updates. But, the FuntouchOS experience on the X Fold 3 Pro isn't bad per say and also brings some AI features to the table. The primary camera performance of the X Fold 3 Pro is also slightly better in most scenarios. Overall, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is the best foldable I have used in recent years, eliminating most of the problems that this form factor brought in the past.
According to the reports, Apple is seeking a partnership with OpenAI and Apple’s proprietary chatbot will still be missing. Rather than introducing a proprietary chatbot, Apple is planning to revamp Siri to catch up to its AI competitors. While it might be a safe decision for the short term, it won't reap benefits in the future. Here's why I want Apple to use its own AI model, rather than relying on OpenAI.
Vivo X Fold 3 Pro First Impressions: New Foldable King?
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The Vivo X Fold 3 is here, and I've got my hands on it! The sleek and lightweight design, super bright and vivid display, big battery as well as a commendable rear camera setup had me all sorts of impressed. However, if I'm to nitpick, the FuntouchOS is an obvious bummer. But, the OS is pretty neat and nicely optimized with the X Fold 3 Pro, leaving not much room for complaints. However, compared to the OneUI on the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and OxygenOS on the OnePlus Open, it obviously does feel barebones and bland. Keeping that aside alongside a not well-tuned selfie shooter, this is the finest foldable we've seen in recent years.
Lossless Dreams: Will Spotify’s HiFi Tier Ever Arrive?
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It's been three years since Spotify announced its HiFi tier for lossless music, and we still don't have confirmation on when the tier will launch. Recent leaks point toward the quality being a notch below what Tidal has on offer for a decent price.
Maria and Angela’s Character Designs in Silent Hill 2 Remake Have Divided the Fanbase
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As Konami officially showcases the gameplay and brand-new look at the prominent supporting characters Maria and Angela in Silent Hill 2 Remake, fans are divided over the new designs. While a broader outcry is currently happening over Angela's new look, with some calling it ugly, others are upset about the Maria's clothing re-design for the remake. Keep reading to find out what I think about it here.
Realme Buds Air 6 Review: Big Sound on a Budget
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Realme Buds Air 6 are the latest in the brands' long running line up of budget TWS. This time they offer 50 dB of active noise cancellation and LHDC 5.0 High res audio support/ But how good are they, does the LHDC help with the sound quality and how long they last? All this I have answered in this review after a week of usage.
Curtain Call for Hollywood: Is the Era of Theater Experience Fading Away?
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There was a time when going to the theater to watch a movie was something we did for fun. However, it seems that this dynamic is gradually closing in on its end with outrageous price tag on the overall experience and the introduction of OTT. There are more factors that lead towards this and in this article, read all about how it seems to be happening.
I Switched to the New Nothing Ear for a Week and Here’s What I Think
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I used the Nothing Ear as my daily earbuds, and there are a couple of things that I noticed. For starters, the ANC is solid, while the Transparency Mode could use some work. The sound quality is amazing though, especially after you tune it on the Nothing X app's Advanced EQ. The fit is exceptional and they never fall out of your ears. All things considered, these are definitely the best earbuds you can grab for Rs 11,999.
Why was OpenAI’s Sam Altman Fired? These New Details Worry Me
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Last year, OpenAI fired its CEO Sam Altman, only to appoint him back to the position a couple of days later. Now, some more details from ex-OpenAI board members, Helen Toner and Tasha McCauley, have revealed the actual reasons behind Altman's firing and that has understandably raised some big concerns in the community. From "psychological abuse" to secrecy and lies, Altman has been accused of it all by the ex-board members.
Can You Believe I Played PS5 Games on a CRT TV in 2024? Here’s How It Went
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As I sat down and wondered if old tech like CRT TVs still have a place in 2024, a bright idea came to my head. What if I took something modern like PS5 games and played it on a CRT TV? Well, I went ahead and did just that and the results were something amazing. Keep reading to find out how it went!
Where Is Shonen Headed? Let’s Look at the Genre’s Uncertain Future
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While the current shonen manga are at their peak, we have major concerns about the future heroes of Shonen. The previous eras of shonen were flooding with tons of new mangas from various authors and got famous over time amassing its own fan base. For example, Naruto, One Piece, Bleach which was followed by My Hero Academia, Demon Slayer, JJK, Black Clover, etc. However, in the current 2020s period there has been a huge decline in the manga releases as well as there is no more long-running manga. All these concerns make us worried about the future but we hope the situation will turn around by itself with new mangakkas offering new spectacular manga in shonen.
I’m Willing to Accept Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra’s Polarizing Design on These Conditions
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Samsung's next top of the line Galaxy Watch will be called the Watch 7 Ultra, and high resolution renders of the same have leaked, revealing the watch in its full glory. The watch has already received criticism on the internet, but I'm willing to let go of the design for as long as it features a four-day battery, extremely rugged design, more buttons, and more sensors
5 Simple Ways Mojang Can Improve Minecraft’s Inventory!
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Inventory in Minecraft has various issues, from filling up too quickly to annoyance of shuffling items around and bad management options. So, the first solution could be to increase max item stack sizes beyond 64. Also, the shulker boxes are very useful but not really convenient. So, they should receive some quality of life features. Backpacks can help in the early game and the UI should be expanded. This can be done with buttons like sort and a search bar. And while building, there could be a UI wheel that would allow you to easily access blocks from the inventory.
Old Minecraft Packs More Charm than the New One: Here’s Why
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The old versions of Minecraft such as Beta Minecraft has lots of special charms, and it's not only nostalgia. It is a lot simpler than nowadays Minecraft, which makes it easy to get into and simply connect with the world. Moreover, the building blocks were quite limited, so players had to come up with creative solutions and clever integrations. And last but definitely not least, old Minecraft Beta had a different goal altogether, which implies you should simply enjoy the game by doing the basic actions like mining, crafting and building.