Category: Hardware

Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra

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The Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra was a part of Sony’s mid-range lineup, positioned as a larger sibling to the Xperia XA2. Launched alongside the XA2 in early 2018, the XA2 Ultra was designed for users who wanted a bigger display and enhanced multimedia capabilities, particularly in the selfie department. Here’s an in-depth review of the Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra:

Overview:

The Xperia XA2 Ultra was aimed at users who wanted a phablet-sized device with a focus on camera capabilities, especially for selfies. With its large display, dual front-facing cameras, and Sony’s signature design, it catered to users looking for a multimedia-centric device.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.0 (Oreo).
  2. Display: 6.0-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 630.
  4. Memory: Options of 4 GB RAM with 32/64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
  5. Camera: 23 MP primary sensor with an f/2.0 aperture. The front features a dual-camera setup: a 16 MP primary sensor with OIS and an 8 MP wide-angle shooter.
  6. Battery: A 3580 mAh non-removable battery with Quick Charge 3.0.
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, USB Type-C, NFC.

Pros:

  1. Front Camera Capabilities: The dual front-facing cameras, especially with OIS on the primary sensor, made it a selfie-centric device.
  2. Large Display: The 6.0-inch display was great for multimedia consumption and gaming.
  3. Performance: The Snapdragon 630 combined with 4 GB RAM ensured smooth performance for daily tasks and multitasking.
  4. Battery Life: The 3580 mAh battery provided a full day of usage for most users.

Cons:

  1. Bezels: Like its smaller sibling, the XA2 Ultra had noticeable top and bottom bezels, which felt a bit outdated.
  2. Size and Weight: Given its large display and battery, the device was quite hefty and might not be comfortable for all users.
  3. Camera Performance in Low Light: The rear camera, while decent in daylight, struggled in low-light conditions.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Xperia XA2 Ultra faced competition from:

  • Nokia 7 Plus: Offering a 6.0-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 660, and a solid build with Android One certification.
  • Samsung Galaxy A8+ (2018): With its 6.0-inch Super AMOLED display, Exynos 7885, and a dual front camera setup.
  • Moto X4: Although smaller with a 5.2-inch display, it had a Snapdragon 630 and a dual-camera setup.

Launch Date:

The Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra was announced in January 2018 and became available in various markets shortly after.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Updates: Like the XA2, the XA2 Ultra’s software updates weren’t as frequent as some users would have liked.
  2. Camera Software: Some users found the camera software to be a bit clunky, especially given the device’s focus on photography.
  3. Size and Weight: The phone’s weight and large size made it cumbersome for some users.

Conclusion:

The Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra was a commendable offering in the mid-range segment, especially for those who prioritize selfies and multimedia consumption. Its dual front-facing cameras, large display, and decent performance made it stand out in its segment. While it had its limitations, especially in terms of design aesthetics (bezels) and rear camera performance in low light, its overall package was compelling for its price segment. For users looking for a phablet-sized device with a focus on selfies and multimedia, the Xperia XA2 Ultra was a good choice. However, those looking for a more compact device or a more modern design might have considered other options available in the market at the time.

Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018)

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The Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) was a part of Samsung’s mid-to-upper mid-range lineup, aiming to offer a blend of design, performance, and camera capabilities at a more affordable price point compared to the flagship Galaxy S series. Launched in early 2018, the Galaxy A8 (2018) was a successor to the Galaxy A series, bringing in features reminiscent of the flagship lineup. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018):

Overview:

The Galaxy A8 (2018) was designed for users who wanted a premium smartphone experience without the flagship price tag. With its Infinity Display, decent specifications, and camera capabilities, it catered to users looking for a reliable daily driver with a focus on design and multimedia.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 7.1.1 (Nougat) and later received updates.
  2. Display: 5.6-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2220 pixels, featuring the Infinity Display design.
  3. Processor: Exynos 7885 Octa.
  4. Memory: Options of 4 GB RAM with 32/64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
  5. Camera: 16 MP primary sensor with an f/1.7 aperture. The front features a dual-camera setup: a 16 MP primary sensor and an 8 MP secondary sensor, both with f/1.9 aperture.
  6. Battery: A 3000 mAh non-removable battery.
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, USB Type-C, NFC, IP68 water and dust resistance.

Pros:

  1. Display: The Super AMOLED Infinity Display was vibrant, with deep blacks and good sunlight visibility.
  2. Build and Design: The phone featured a glass back and front with an aluminum frame, giving it a premium feel. The design was sleek and modern.
  3. Water and Dust Resistance: IP68 certification was a significant feature in its price range.
  4. Selfie Camera: The dual front-facing cameras provided depth and focus adjustments for selfies.

Cons:

  1. Battery Life: While decent, the 3000 mAh battery might not be enough for power users.
  2. Rear Camera Performance in Low Light: The camera, while good in daylight, had some struggles in low-light scenarios.
  3. Software Updates: Samsung’s mid-range devices typically don’t receive updates as quickly as the flagship ones.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Galaxy A8 (2018) faced competition from:

  • Nokia 7 Plus: Offering a 6.0-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 660, and a solid build with Android One certification.
  • Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra: With its 6.0-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 630, and a focus on selfie capabilities.
  • Motorola Moto X4: Featuring a 5.2-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 630, and a dual-camera setup.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) was announced in December 2017 and became available in various markets in January 2018.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Bloatware: As with many Samsung devices, the A8 came with a fair amount of pre-installed apps, which not everyone found useful.
  2. Speaker Placement: The side-mounted speaker was an unusual choice and could be easily covered when holding the phone in landscape mode.
  3. Price: Some users felt that the device was a bit pricey for the features it offered, especially when compared to competitors.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) was a commendable offering in the mid-to-upper mid-range segment, especially for those who prioritize design and display quality. Its Infinity Display, premium build, and decent camera setup made it stand out in its segment. While it had its limitations, especially in terms of battery life and rear camera performance in low light, its overall package was compelling for its price segment. For users looking for a premium design with a focus on display and selfies, the Galaxy A8 (2018) was a good choice. However, those looking for better value for money or faster software updates might have considered other options available in the market at the time.

Google Pixel 2 XL

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The Google Pixel 2 XL, launched in 2017, was Google’s second iteration of its Pixel lineup, emphasizing the pure Android experience, timely updates, and camera prowess. Here’s an in-depth review of the Google Pixel 2 XL:

Overview:

The Pixel 2 XL was Google’s flagship offering for 2017, aiming to showcase the best of Android and set a benchmark for other Android OEMs. With its unique design, top-tier camera, and pure software, it was targeted at users who wanted the quintessential Android experience.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.0 (Oreo), with guaranteed updates due to its Pixel lineage.
  2. Display: 6.0-inch P-OLED with a resolution of 1440 x 2880 pixels, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835.
  4. Memory: 4 GB RAM with options of 64 GB or 128 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Single 12.2 MP rear camera with dual-LED flash and an 8 MP front camera. Despite having a single lens, it offered portrait mode using software algorithms.
  6. Battery: 3520 mAh non-removable battery with fast charging support.
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, USB Type-C, front-facing stereo speakers, water and dust resistance (IP67), and Active Edge (squeeze to activate Google Assistant).

Pros:

  1. Camera: The Pixel 2 XL’s camera was among the best in its class, offering outstanding photo quality, especially in low light. Its software-driven portrait mode was also impressive.
  2. Software Experience: Being a Pixel device, it offered a stock Android experience with timely updates directly from Google.
  3. Front-Facing Speakers: The stereo speakers provided a robust audio experience, especially for media consumption.
  4. Active Edge: The squeeze feature to activate Google Assistant was a unique addition, providing quick access to the voice assistant.

Cons:

  1. Display Issues: Early units of the Pixel 2 XL faced criticism for display issues, including muted colors, blue shift at off-angles, and potential burn-in.
  2. No Headphone Jack: The omission of the 3.5mm headphone jack was a point of contention for many users.
  3. Price: The Pixel 2 XL was priced at a premium, making it expensive compared to some of its competitors.
  4. Design: While the design was unique, it wasn’t universally loved, especially with its relatively large bezels compared to other 2017 flagships.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its segment, the Pixel 2 XL faced competition from:

  • Samsung Galaxy Note 8: Offering a Super AMOLED display, Snapdragon 835 (or Exynos 8895), and a dual-camera setup.
  • iPhone X: With its Super Retina OLED display, Apple A11 Bionic chip, and a dual-camera system.
  • LG V30: Featuring an OLED display, Snapdragon 835, and a dual-camera setup with a wide-angle lens.

Launch Date:

The Google Pixel 2 XL was announced in October 2017 and became available shortly after.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Display Controversies: As mentioned, early units had various display issues, which Google addressed with software updates and extended warranties.
  2. Audio Recording: Some users reported subpar audio quality when recording videos, which was later improved with updates.
  3. USB-C Audio: A few users faced issues with USB-C audio, especially with third-party headphones.

Conclusion:

The Google Pixel 2 XL was a testament to Google’s vision of Android, offering a pure software experience, timely updates, and a camera that set benchmarks. While it had its set of challenges, especially concerning the display, it remained a solid option for those who prioritize software and camera performance. For users who value a bloat-free Android experience, timely updates, and top-tier camera performance, the Pixel 2 XL was a strong contender in the 2017 flagship segment.

Samsung Galaxy Note 8

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The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 was a significant release for Samsung, especially following the challenges faced with its predecessor, the Note 7. Launched in 2017, the Galaxy Note 8 was positioned as a high-end device, emphasizing productivity, camera capabilities, and the iconic S Pen features. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy Note 8:

Overview:

The Galaxy Note 8 aimed to reaffirm Samsung’s position in the premium phablet market segment. It was designed for users who wanted a large display, top-tier specifications, and the unique features offered by the S Pen.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 7.1.1 (Nougat), upgradable to later versions.
  2. Display: 6.3-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1440 x 2960 pixels, supporting HDR10.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 (USA) or Exynos 8895 (global).
  4. Memory: 6 GB RAM with 64 GB/128 GB/256 GB internal storage options, expandable via microSD.
  5. Camera: Dual-camera setup with two 12 MP sensors, one being a wide lens and the other a telephoto lens. The front camera is an 8 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 3300 mAh non-removable battery with fast charging and wireless charging support.
  7. Other Features: S Pen stylus, IP68 dust/water resistance, iris scanner, rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, and USB Type-C.

Pros:

  1. Display Quality: The Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display was vibrant, sharp, and one of the best in its time.
  2. Camera Capabilities: The dual-camera setup allowed for 2x optical zoom and the creation of images with a bokeh effect.
  3. S Pen Features: The S Pen offered unique features like live message, screen-off memo, and precise note-taking capabilities.
  4. Build and Design: The device featured a premium build with a glass back and an aluminum frame, giving it a luxurious feel.

Cons:

  1. Battery Life: Given the device’s powerful specs and large display, the 3300 mAh battery was considered modest, leading to average battery life.
  2. Fingerprint Scanner Placement: The fingerprint scanner was placed next to the camera module, which some users found inconvenient and led to smudging the camera lens.
  3. Price: Being a flagship, the Note 8 came with a premium price tag.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its segment, the Note 8 faced competition from:

  • iPhone 8 Plus: Offering a Retina IPS LCD display, Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, and a dual-camera system.
  • LG V30: Featuring a 6-inch OLED display, Snapdragon 835, and a versatile dual-camera setup.
  • Google Pixel 2 XL: With its 6-inch P-OLED display, Snapdragon 835, and a highly-praised single-camera system.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 was announced in August 2017 and became available in various markets in September 2017.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Battery Concerns: While there were no widespread issues like the Note 7, some users reported that the battery life wasn’t as long-lasting as they hoped.
  2. Slow Software Updates: Some users felt that Samsung was slower to provide software updates compared to other manufacturers.
  3. Bixby Button: The dedicated Bixby button was a point of contention, with some users disliking its placement and lack of remapping options initially.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 was a crucial device for Samsung, helping the company regain trust after the Note 7 debacle. It was a feature-packed device that catered to power users and those who wanted a blend of productivity and entertainment in their smartphone. While it had its shortcomings, the overall package was compelling, especially for those invested in the Note series and its unique S Pen features.