Latest news with #Pixel9Pro


Daily Record
4 days ago
- Business
- Daily Record
Reliable UK mobile networks for shoppers, including EE and Lyca after Three issues
If you've been affected by the Three downtime and are considering looking elsewhere, these two networks have branded one of the most reliable With Three experiencing a serious outage on Wednesday, thousands of customers were left unable to make or receive calls, or send messages. The service has now been restored to "near-normal levels" according to a statement from Three, but that's still left a lot of angry customers. If the downtime has left you thinking about switching, you might be wondering which is the most reliable mobile phone network in the UK? According to Rootmetrics, an independent mobile analytics firm, EE is the most reliable network in the UK. The data comes from the second half of 2024, but sees EE as the best network overall, leading in Rootmetric's scoring. That scoring assesses reliability, accessibility, speed, data, calls, text and video, with EE sitting in the top spot and Vodafone coming in second in UK-wide performance. For those Three customers wondering how their network came out, the Rootmetrics data sees Three's scores declining slightly from the first half of 2024 in terms of overall performance, with the company in third place from the big four networks. EE summer sale EE is currently offering a range of summer deals, including unlimited data SIMs from £24 a month, the iPhone 16 from £43 a month or the Pixel 9 Pro from under £40 a month, both with 5GB data on a 24-month contract. Note that in these deals there's £30 upfront and the phone payments are spread across 36 months, separate from the SIM tariff. If those prices sound a little high, then there's another way to access EE's service through a virtual network. Lyca Mobile runs on the EE network, where you can get a 30GB data, unlimited UK calls and texts and 100 international minutes, for £9 a month on a 12-month contract. Switching is now incredibly easy, all shoppers have to do is send the word "PAC" to 65075 and the switching process will be started. Once you receive the PAC code, you'll pass that over to your new network and that's it. If you're planning to stick with Three, the company is undergoing transformation as the newly merged Vodafone Three network. That's going to bring together Three and Vodafone and should result in customers getting better network access. When Vodafone Three was announced recently, the company said that millions of customers would get a 4G speed boost "within just two weeks", but it seems that instead those customers were faced with no connectivity instead. In the longer term, Three customers will benefit from Vodafone's existing network with plans to invest £11bn in infrastructure and in the next couple of months, Three customers will be able to use Vodafone's network to boost their own connection. Currently, it hasn't been confirmed what caused the Three network problems on 25 June.


Tom's Guide
5 days ago
- Business
- Tom's Guide
Too good to be true! Pixel 9 drops to $249 ahead of Prime Day
Usually I'm all for top-of-the-line models whenever phone makers announce their new lineup, but I've said previously that the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL are overrated. Instead, I mentioned how the Pixel 9 is the one with the most value — and it's down to as low as $249 for a limited time. This is the best phone deal I've seen ahead of Prime Day, beating out Mint Mobile's exceptional deal on the Samsung Galaxy S25 I shared not long ago. The Pixel 9 normally sells for $799, but U.S. Mobile drops its price to $249. That's a discount of 68% off, which is insane for a phone of this caliber. In fact, that's half the cost of the already budget phone in the Pixel 9a. The Pixel 9 is down to $249 for a limited time when you activate it on a qualifying U.S. Mobile cell phone plan. Not only does it have exception cameras on the back, but its value is supplemented by the amount of helpful AI features it offers and 7 years of software support. I still can't believe how the wireless carrier is able to give it such a deep discount. From what I read on its site, you get the instant $550 discount when you commit to any of its cell phone plans — your choice of doing a monthly or annual plan. Its monthly plan starts at $25/month for the Unlimited Starter plan and provides the essentials like unlimited talk, text, and data. You can upgrade to its Unlimited Premium plan for $44/month and get premium data that never slows down, international service, and unlimited hotpot service. Of course, there's more of a discount if you choose to pay for the service annually. For example, you'll pay $270 for its Unlimited Starter plan, which comes out to be $22.50/month. There's an extra promo code you can use at checkout, OVERDRIVE, that drops down the annual plan to essentially cost $19/month for 12 months. Just as before, I still think the Pixel 9 has the best value in the entire lineup because it has all the same Google AI features as the more pricey phones. Over on the photo editing side, there's the new Add Me feature that uses augmented reality to Photoshop the photographer who's taking a snapshot with the phone and add them into the group shot. Additionally, I really love how realistic it generates images from scratch with Pixel Studio. And finally, there's the new Reimagine feature that lets me use a text description to edit photos — like changing the background to something else entirely. On the productivity side of things, there's Pixel Screenshots that uses AI to grab details that could be recalled later. For example, I could use it to take a screenshot of a recipe and then I can go back months later to ask for those details that I might've forgotten — or use it to remember an upcoming event, so I can quickly recall the details later on. Another reason why I think the Pixel 9 is underrated against its 'pro' siblings is because it has the same main and ultrawide cameras. This consists of 50MP main and 48MP ultrawide cameras, which are identical to the more expensive Pro models. The only thing that can't match is the dedicated telephoto cameras with 5x optical zoom. Although, its image processing algorithms do an excellent job of enhancing photos up to 3x zoom in my opinion. And finally, the Pixel 9 is treated to the same IP68 construction and 7 years of software support as the other, more expensive pro models. What's also interesting about this U.S. Mobile deal is that the carrier will unlock the phone 90 days after activation, which means you can bring it to any other carrier. This isn't the only deal happening with the Pixel 9 right now because I've listed some of my favorite ones below. Through Google Fi Wireless, you can get the Pixel 9 for $399 when you activate it on a plan and keep the service for 120 days. The best part about this deal is that you'll have four color options to choose from, instead of the single one offered by U.S. Mobile. Similar to its Galaxy S25 deal, Mint Mobile's discounting the Pixel 9 down to $359. But the best part is that the unlimited cell phone plan that comes with it also gets a big discount. You're paying $360 for 2 years of unlimited service, which combined with the hardware cost, comes out to $719 at checkout. That's less than the cost of buying the phone outright. It's not the deepest discount, but if you need something without having to commit to a new service plan, Best Buy gives you an extra $100 discount when you select the option to connect it to Verizon or AT&T at checkout.


CNET
5 days ago
- CNET
Summer 2025 Survival Guide: Tips to Keep Your Phone Cool During This Heat Wave
With a blistering heat dome bringing triple-digit temperatures to millions of Americans this week, staying cool is the number one priority -- but your phone needs protection too. Phones are more sensitive to extreme temperatures than most people realize. Even the latest models, like the Pixel 9 Pro or iPhone 16, can overheat quickly if left in the sun or used heavily during hot weather. When your phone gets too hot, it can slow down, shut off or even suffer long-term damage. High temperatures put stress on the battery and internal components, which can lead to reduced performance and a shorter lifespan. Whether you're out on a hike, watching videos by the pool, or just leaving your phone on the dashboard, here's what you need to know about overheating -- and how to keep your device safe this summer. That's why you want to take all the measures you can to prevent your iPhone, Android device or other phone from overheating. You can't stop all instances of overheating, but there are many things you can do. Here's what you need to know. For more, check out the best iPhone in 2025, as well as our top picks if you're considering an Android phone. Why is your phone overheating in the first place? High temperatures -- over 95 degrees, according to Apple -- can cause your phone to take precautions to protect its components. Your phone might overheat for many reasons, but here are some of the most common culprits: Leaving your phone in direct sunlight Keeping your phone in a hot environment, like a car on a hot day Using your your phone's navigation system or other system-intensive tasks in hot conditions Overusing your phone when it's charging A faulty battery or charger Bugs in the software Rogue apps or malware Your phone might overheat from other causes, like a malfunctioning application or even a suffocating phone case, but the reasons above are the most likely causes of your phone getting too hot. You don't want to overuse your phone while it's charging. Nelson Aguilar/CNET What does overheating do to your phone? If the interior temperature of your phone exceeds its normal operating range and the device overheats, you can expect issues: You may not be able to use your phone Operations on your phone may slow down Charging may slow or completely stop Your signal may be weakened Your camera's flash may be disabled There are also possible permanent harmful effects: Overheating can cause lasting damage to the battery, SIM card and other crucial parts inside your phone. If your phone overheats, it may not be able to charge until it returns to a normal temperature. Screenshot by Nelson Aguilar/CNET So how can you prevent your phone from overheating? The most important thing is to keep your phone out from direct sunlight when possible, especially when it's warm. Your phone might be fine in the grass on an overcast day, but the warmer the temperature, the less your phone can withstand the sun. At the beach, your phone can overheat in just a few minutes in the sun. Same if you put it in a sunny spot on the dash or seat of your car. Instead, get your phone out of the direct light, whether it's in your pocket, inside a backpack or under a towel/blanket or dashboard. Anyplace that will keep it away from sunlight will work. It's fairly easy to protect your phone from the sun, but high temperatures alone can also cause your phone to overheat. After only an hour, the inside of a car can reach 143 degrees when it's 100 degrees outside, for example, so a phone left in your cup holder could quickly overheat and get damaged. The short answer: Don't keep your phone in a hot environment for an extended period of time, even if it's not in direct sunlight. That includes your car, a sauna, the kitchen, the middle of the desert or anywhere near a fire. Your phone's optimal internal temperature should be somewhere between 32° and 95° F (0° and 35° C). To prevent overheating, Apple recommends keeping the device in a place where the temperature is between -4° and 113° F (-20° and 45° C). While it might be tempting, don't stick your phone in the freezer to cool it down. The Apple community boards have lots of warnings about the damage you can do to your phone by putting it in an icebox. You should also follow these tips to prevent your phone from overheating Don't use graphics- or processor-intensive apps when your phone is charging . That includes massive mobile video games like PUBG Mobile or streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu. . That includes massive mobile video games like PUBG Mobile or streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu. Update your phone system software and apps to the latest software available . A bug in the software can cause overheating issues, so always stay up-to-date with your software. . A bug in the software can cause overheating issues, so always stay up-to-date with your software. Steer clear of third-party chargers. Almost all of the time you'll be fine, but a cheaply designed charger could cause your phone to overheat. While you're here, check out how to make your Android feel new again with these five tips.


Mint
6 days ago
- Mint
Pixel 10 leak: Glossy design, triple camera, but no vapour cooling or Wi-Fi 7 tipped
Google's upcoming Pixel 10 series is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated smartphone releases of the year, with a rumoured launch date of 20 August at the annualMade by Google event. While official confirmation is still pending, reports indicate the devices could hit store shelves as early as 28 August. However, new leaks suggest that the standard Pixel 10 model may fall short in several areas despite some notable upgrades. According to a report byAndroid Headlines, the base Pixel 10 will not feature a vapour chamber cooling system, a component crucial for maintaining performance during intensive tasks such as gaming or 4K video recording. This omission marks a continued trend from last year's Pixel 9, which also skipped the feature, reserving it exclusively for the Pixel 9 Pro. Additionally, the Pixel 10 is reportedly set to lack support for Wi-Fi 7, a next-generation connectivity standard that was included in the Pixel 9. If accurate, this could be seen as a step backwards in terms of wireless capabilities, potentially affecting download speeds and latency for users on compatible networks. One of the headline features tipped for the Pixel 10 Pro, Ultra Res Zoom, is also expected to be absent from the standard model. Building upon Google's existingSuper Res Zoom, which offered up to 8x magnification, the new feature is believed to deliver significantly greater zoom levels, though exact details remain scarce. Another area where the vanilla Pixel 10 may lag behind is video stabilisation. While earlier leaks hinted at gimbal-level stabilisation, fresh information suggests that this ultra-stable recording feature will not be available in the base variant. Design-wise, the Pixel 10 is said to retain a similar aesthetic to its predecessor, featuring matte-finished sides with a glossy rear panel. Meanwhile, internal upgrades are expected to include a revamped triple rear camera setup, complete with a telephoto lens and improvements in loudspeaker performance. The entire Pixel 10 lineup is also rumoured to be powered by Google's latest in-house chipset, the Tensor G5. As anticipation builds towards the expected August unveiling, these reported omissions may leave some prospective buyers considering the higher-end Pro models for a more complete feature set.


CNET
22-06-2025
- CNET
Phone Temperature Skyrocketing? These Tricks Keep It Chill
Summer heat is still going strong across much of the U.S., and while staying cool yourself should be the priority, it's also important to protect your tech. Phones are more sensitive to extreme temperatures than most people realize. Even the latest models, like the Pixel 9 Pro or iPhone 15, can overheat quickly if left in the sun or used heavily during hot weather. When your phone gets too hot, it can slow down, shut off, or even suffer long-term damage. High temperatures put stress on the battery and internal components, which can lead to reduced performance and a shorter lifespan. Whether you're out on a hike, watching videos by the pool, or just leaving your phone on the dashboard, here's what you need to know about overheating-and how to keep your device safe this summer. That's why you want to take all the measures you can to prevent your iPhone, Android device or other phone from overheating. You can't stop all instances of overheating, but there are many things you can do. Here's what you need to know. For more, check out the best iPhone you can get in 2024, as well as our top picks if you're considering an Android phone. Why is your phone overheating in the first place? High temperatures -- over 95 degrees, according to Apple -- can cause your phone to take precautions to protect its components. Your phone might overheat for many reasons, but here are some of the most common culprits: Leaving your phone in direct sunlight Keeping your phone in a hot environment, like a car on a hot day Using your your phone's navigation system or other system-intensive tasks in hot conditions Overusing your phone when it's charging A faulty battery or charger Bugs in the software Rogue apps or malware Your phone might overheat from other causes, like a malfunctioning application or even a suffocating phone case, but the reasons above are the most likely causes of your phone getting too hot. You don't want to overuse your phone while it's charging. Nelson Aguilar/CNET What does overheating do to your phone? If the interior temperature of your phone exceeds its normal operating range and the device overheats, you can expect issues: You may not be able to use your phone Operations on your phone may slow down Charging may slow or completely stop Your signal may be weakened Your camera's flash may be disabled There are also possible permanent harmful effects: Overheating can cause lasting damage to the battery, SIM card and other crucial parts inside your phone. If your phone overheats, it may not be able to charge until it returns to a normal temperature. Nelson Aguilar/CNET So how can you prevent your phone from overheating? The most important thing is to keep your phone out from direct sunlight when possible, especially when it's warm. Your phone might be fine in the grass on an overcast day, but the warmer the temperature, the less your phone can withstand the sun. At the beach, your phone can overheat in just a few minutes in the sun. Same if you put it in a sunny spot on the dash or seat of your car. Instead, get your phone out of the direct light, whether it's in your pocket, inside a backpack or under a towel/blanket or dashboard. Anyplace that will keep it away from sunlight will work. It's fairly easy to protect your phone from the sun, but high temperatures alone can also cause your phone to overheat. After only an hour, the inside of a car can reach 143 degrees when it's 100 degrees outside, for example, so a phone left in your cup holder could quickly overheat and get damaged. The short answer: Don't keep your phone in a hot environment for an extended period of time, even if it's not in direct sunlight. That includes your car, a sauna, the kitchen, the middle of the desert or anywhere near a fire. Your phone's optimal internal temperature should be somewhere between 32° and 95° F (0° and 35° C). To prevent overheating, Apple recommends keeping the device in a place where the temperature is between -4° and 113° F (-20° and 45° C). While it might be tempting, don't stick your phone in the freezer to cool it down. The Apple community boards have lots of warnings about the damage you can do to your phone by putting it in an icebox. You should also follow these tips to prevent your phone from overheating Don't use graphics- or processor-intensive apps when your phone is charging . That includes massive mobile video games like PUBG Mobile or streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu. . That includes massive mobile video games like PUBG Mobile or streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu. Update your phone system software and apps to the latest software available . A bug in the software can cause overheating issues, so always stay up-to-date with your software. . A bug in the software can cause overheating issues, so always stay up-to-date with your software. Steer clear of third-party chargers. Almost all of the time you'll be fine, but a cheaply designed charger could cause your phone to overheat. While you're here, check out how to make your Android feel new again with these five tips.