Vxdfff

RNI NO. MAHENG/2015/69288 Postal Reg No. MCW/340/2020-2022. Post at Mumbai Patrika Channel Sorting Office G. P. O. Mumbai 400 001, Published on 6th of every month and posted on 6th & 7th of every month

84

PHONES W E A R A BLES AUDIO T VS L A PTOPS VOLUME 06 ISSUE 06 JANUARY 2021

The World’s Leading Gadget Magazine!

`130

NAIL YOUR

FITNESS GOALS Tomorrow’s Technology Today www.t3india.com

INDIAN EDITION

• Get trim faster with home gym tech • Fix your posture with yoga wearables • Tone up easily with smart weights

NEW LAUNCH

ES INCLUD

VIEWSONIC X100-4K

HSEiC-TIOFNi

4K home theater projector j

BOWERS & WILKINS 607 S2 STANDMOUNT SPEAKERS

REVIEWED

iPAD AIR Pro-level features for less cash

CD, VINYL OR STREAMING?

REVIEWED ISSN 2454–9703

OPTOMA P2 Premium laser projection at home

/t3indiamag t3indiamag

@t3indiamag

/t3indiamag t3indiamag

www.t3india.com

MZ Audio Distributions (India)

Email : al@mzaudiodistribution.co.in / info@mzaudiodistribution.co.in

SHOWSTOPPER Gadgets that showcase the very best that design and technology have to offer

A FACE FOR RADIO

No matter how clever the R1 is, the most memorable thing is its looks. This is a gorgeous gadget: its attractive contoured polymer enclosure is acoustically inert, while its ash or walnut grille will make it an item of furniture you actively want to show off

RUA R K AU DIO R 1 We know what you’re thinking: didn’t streaming kill the radio (star)? Far from it: rather than going extinct, they’ve evolved.

Perhaps the closest you could get to the Platonic ideal of a digital radio, this is the fourth-generation of the Ruark R1, released for its predecessor’s 14th birthday, and the premium audio brand has essentially perfected the formula to give you everything you’d want from a discrete radio. It has best-in-class sound, helped in no small part by its linear amplifier, Ruark NaturalSound+ driver and adaptive EQ. But its talents go much further than that: not only does it have a DAB, DAB+ and FM tuner, it also has a high-quality Bluetooth receiver, switchable auxiliary input and a USB-C playback port, meaning it doubles as a high-quality bookshelf speaker. All in all, it offers a serious amount of audio adaptability for a very decent price. approx. `22,800, ruarkaudio.com

4 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

'#(!Y , (

$686 5HSUHVHQWDWLYHV #2 6GNCPICPC $CPICNQTG

%JGPPCK &GNJK

)WLCTCV -GTCNC

/WODCK /CFJ[C 2TCFGUJ

4GUV QH /CJCTCUJVTC 9GUV $GPICN

'PS GFFECBDL FNBJM SFBDIVT!BTVT DPN PS JOGP@JOEJB!BTVT DPN

Welcome

Editor’s letter Happy New Year!

Here’s wishing everyone a Happy New Year! 2020 was a difficult one, and one way to start the new year on the right note is being healthy. Our cover story showcases some gadgets and services you can use to stay fit and hit your fitness goals in 2021.

T3 is…

Executive Editor Kunal Gangar Consulting Editor Girish Mallya Correspondent Gautam Doshi Contributors Sujith Gopinath Editor (UK) Matt Bolton Contributors (UK) Duncan Bell, Michelle Rae Uy, Leon Poultney Publisher Girish Mallya Mentor & Special advisor Hoshang Billimoria Head Design & Production Ravi Parmar Senior Designer Prakash Gavnang Photography Mahesh Reddy Production Supervisor Dinesh Bhajnik Product Manager Perseus Master General Manager North and East - Ellora Das Gupta

Despite a slow month, we saw some new launches from Apple with their super-premium headphones, a

General Manager South - Girish Shet Circulation Manager Circulation North and East - Kapil Kaushik

4K projector from ViewSonic, affordable

BRANCH OFFICES

smartwatches from Amazfit and a few more.

Mumbai 105-106, Trade World, B Wing, 1st Floor, Kamala Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel West, Mumbai-400013. Tel: +91 22 43525252 Ahmedabad Devendra Mehta - Mob No.- 09714913234 Bengaluru Unit No. 509, 5th Floor ‘B’ Wing, Mittal Towers, MG Road, Bangalore -560001, India Tel: +91 80 66110116/17 Fax: + 91 80 41472574 Chennai Salma Jabbar Cenetoph Elite,No.5,1st street, Teynampet, Chennai-6000018 Tel: + 91 044 421-08-421, 044 421-75-421 New Delhi Ellora Das Gupta 26-B, First Floor, Okhla Industrial Estate, Phase-III, New Delhi - 110020 Tel: +91 11 4234 6600 / 6678 Fax: + 91 11 4234 6679 Pune S.No.261/G.L.R.No.5 East Street,Camp, Pune-411001 Tel : + 91 20 26830465 Hyderabad Srinivas Gangula -Territory Sales Incharge (Circulation) Mobile no. 09000555756 Kolkata Vidyasagar Gupta -Territory Sales Incharge (Circulation).

Mobile no. 09804085683 Subscription Enquiries Tel: +91-22-43525220 Apple Newsstand & Magzter Queries: help@magzter.com

However, it was the usual business for our monthly set of reviews. Do read our review on the latest Apple iPhone 12 and the 12 Pro, along with the latest iPad Air. Moreover, we also tried out Asus’ top-of-the-line convertible laptop with the latest Intel processor, a vlogger-friendly camera from Sony and VR headset from Oculus. Everything from pg 51.

Happy reading!

Kunal Gangar, Executive Editor k.gangar@nextgenpublishing.net

Views and opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of Next Gen Publishing Pvt Ltd. Views expressed by external contributors are their own and not those of the organisations they work for. Next Gen Publishing does not take the responsibility for returning unsolicited material sent without adequate postal stamps for return postage. No part of the magazine may be reproduced in part or full without the prior express written permission of the publisher. All readers are recommended to make their own independent enquiries before sending money, incurring expenses or entering into commitments in relation to any advertisement appearing in the publication. T3 India does not vouch for any claims made by advertisers for their products and services. The editor, publisher, printer and employees of the publication shall not be held liable for any consequence in the events of such claims not being honoured by the advertisers. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Mumbai only.

OUR AWARDS PLATINUM AWARD

THE DESIGN AWARD

BEST FOR BATTERY LIFE

This award, and others We give this only to Only a five-star review like it, are given for tech that stands out for earn a product our prestigious Platinum stunning aesthetics or a exceptional performance in a key feature clever build Award

BEST ON TEST

The winners of our group tests earn this accolade, showing them to be top tier

All rights reserved.

Published with the permission of Future plc.

Reproduction in any manner in any language in whole or in part without prior written permission from Future plc & Next Gen Publishing Pvt Ltd. with regard to their respective content is prohibited. Printed by Girish Mallya. Next Gen Publishing Pvt Ltd., 105-106, Trade World, B Wing, 1st Floor, Kamala Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel West, Mumbai-400013. Published by Girish Mallya on behalf of Next Gen Publishing Pvt Ltd., 105-106, Trade World, B Wing, 1st Floor, Kamala Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel West, Mumbai-400013. Printed at Kalajyothi Process Pvt. Ltd, 1-1-60/5 RTCX Roads, Hyderabad - 20. Published at Next Gen Publishing Pvt Ltd., 105-106, Trade World, B Wing, 1st Floor, Kamala Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel West, Mumbai-400013.

Editor: Kunal Gangar

6 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

HYBRID PERFORMANCE ED

24.5M

ISO

Pixels

100 - 51200

ISO

D780 Body only: ₹ 1 98 995.00*

4K

7

FPS

UHD

4K

Eye-Detection Autofocus in Live View

D780 Body with 24-120mm VR lens: ₹ 2 42 495.00*

Special Offers: Consumer offer worth ₹ 34 450.00*

Get a Manfrotto backpack worth ₹ 11 500.00 after registering on www.capturewithnikon.in/consumer-offer.

Price quoted is for one unit of product. MRP inclusive of all taxes. Accessories shown above are only for reference and are not provided with the product.

Corporate/Registered Office & Service Centre: Nikon India Pvt. Ltd., Plot No. 71, Sector 32, Institutional Area Gurgaon - 122001, Haryana, (CIN – U74999HR2007FTC036820).

Ph: 0124 4688527, Service Ph: 0124 4688514, Service ID: nindsupport@nikon.com, Sales and Support ID: nindsales@nikon.com TO LOCATE DEALERS IN YOUR AREA

SMS NIKON <PINCODE> to 58888

CALL TOLL FREE NO: 1800-102-7346

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.nikon.co.in *T&C Apply

NikonIndia

nikonindiaofficial

NikonIndia

NikonIndia

nikon-india-private-limited

Contents

Contents

032

NAIL YOUR FITNESS GOALS

Top-notch tech for upgrading your exercise regimen – improve your gait, gain muscle more easily and track your cardiac health

044

TOP ANDROID PHONES FOR EVERYBODY

Not an iPhone fan? Well we’ve got a range of Android handsets to suit every kind of person

8 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Contents BEST OF THE BEST 073 INTRODUCING THE BEST BUYER’S GUIDE KNOWN TO MAN

HORIZON

TESTED

010

052

HORIZON TOP LAUNCHES

iPHONE 12

It’s a new year with all the new launches, starting with Apple’s pricey headphones, 4K home projector from ViewSonic, QHZ VPDUWZDWFKHV IURP $PD]ĆW and more

Does a fresh new look, slick camera and SRZHUIXO LQQDUGV MXVWLI\ LWV PRUH ćDJVKLS price?

019 TRAVEL Brighten up your winter with these aurora-borealis-spotting adventures

HI-FI

056 ASUS ZENBOOK FLIP S Asus’ new ZenBook Flip S 2-in1 convertible brings a 4K display and the latest Intel 11th Gen processor

058

020

iPAD AIR

STYLE

Pro-level components at a mid-range price make this the best tablet for most people

Hitting the right notes with fragrances and watches that suit your style

From phones to tablets, and camera to cars, our selection of the very best tells you what to buy

022

062

GADGET GURU

SONY ZV-1

Avoid monitor misconceptions, become a dog breed detective and more

A vlogging-friendly camera to supercharge your YouTube career

026 BOWERS & WILKINS 607 S2 STANDMOUNT SPEAKERS

027 CD, VINYL OR STREAMING?

069 iPHONE 12 PRO With a best-in-class screen and the fastest processor in a mobile, Apple retains the smartphone throne

071

024

GAMES

FITNESS & OUTDOORS

We play Ubisoft’s fun game based on Greek mythology and take a spin in the dytopian Night City

Track your runs more accurately with the help of this neck-mounted gadget

SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE BIG MONEY

Essentials 004

SHOWSTOPPER

081

SUBSCRIPTIONS

082

LUXURIES

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

081 JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 9

Horizon

BEOLIT 20 `TBA, bang-olufsen.com It’s the little things that matter. Bang & Olufsen hasn’t reinvented the portable speaker with the Beolit 20, but they’ve further refined the already delectable Beolit 17 into a speaker you’ll just want to have around. Styled by designer Cecilie Manz to look like a posh lunchbox, in either a picnicfriendly aluminium and tanned leather or a somewhat more hip black anthracite dressing, this doesn’t stray far from the iconic looks of the original – but it sure packs in a lot of features.

Bassier and batterier than before, with the same 360-degree sound as its forebear, the Beolit 20 now includes a Qi charger built into its conveniently large, lipped upper edge, perfect for taking advantage of the extra juice inside while you’re outdoors. If you have two, you can pair them up – and the 20 is able to pair backwards with the 17, too.

T3 SAYS: Looks great, sure to sound great.

TECH-O-METER

APPLE AIRPODS MAX `59,900, apple.com/in As much as it hurts to see a pair of headphones priced so high, there is little to no doubts about the fact that AirPods Max is here to announce its participation in pioneering the next generation of headphones, catered towards those whose pockets go deep enough. With an all-new wireless over-ear design featuring a breathable knit mesh canopy and a stainless steel headband frame and a comfortable ear cup, the AirPods Max deliver incredible high-fidelity sound through 40mm Appledesigned dynamic drivers. The integrated H1 chips in each ear cup aim to deliver the best listening experiences, through 10 audio cores, Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, and spatial audio. The AirPods Max offer a battery life of up to 20 hours and they come in a soft, slim Smart Case that helps the headphones preserve battery. The AirPods Max is equipped with a feature called ‘Automatic Switching’ which allows users to move sound between their Apple devices.

T3 SAYS: The AirPods Max are responsive to voice calls and Siri commands, and are an excellent addition to Apple’s AirPods family.

TECH-O-METER

10 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

ZOTAC GAMING GEFORCE RTX 3070 TWIN EDGE OC WHITE EDITION TM

• • • • • • •

/ZOTAC

*REGISTRATION REQUIRED CHECK DETAILS AT ZOTAC.COM

Distributed by Supertron Electronics Private Limited

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU 5888 CUDA Cores Boost: 1.755 MHz 8 GB GDDR6, 14 Gbps Memory, 256-bit 3x DisplayPort 1.4a, 1x HDMI 2.1 White LED Lighting IceStorm 2.0 Advanced Cooling

/ZOTAC

/ZOTAC

Contact info: Raman Ganju raman@supertronindia.com

/ZOTACOF F I C I A L

©2019 ZOTAC Technology Ltd. All rights reserved. All company and/or product names may be trade names, trademarks and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with which they are associated. ZOTAC Technology Ltd. does not warrant the accuracy, completeness or reliability of information, materials and other items contained on this print, image, website, or server. No liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein.

/ZOTAC _ OFF I C I A L

ZOTAC.COM

Horizon SENNHEISER HD 560S `18,990, sennheiserindia.com Sennheiser’s claim that the HD 560S is designed for ‘analytical listening sessions’ inclines more towards their intent of living up to the mark rather than just pulling off a mundane marketing gimmick. The HD 560S is lightweight and extremely comfortable, thanks to the ultralight chassis and the around-theear design, complemented by a ventilated cup, and velour earpads. The HD 560S offers a frequency response of 6Hz – 38KHz with a smooth lowfrequency extension, which enables the headphones to deliver complex and superior-quality bass sounds.

These headsets offer a sensitivity of 110dB/1V and a low THD of 0.05% at 90dB, along with offering a wide dynamic range. With a 120-ohm impedance, the HD 560S is versatile enough to be used with any audio source. The HD 560S addresses the needs of a diverse range of consumers, whether it’s those making music or just audiophiles tuning in for their recurring dose of music.

T3 SAYS: The HD 560S keep up to Sennheiser’s name of exceptional quality, with their main purpose being to ‘show how a track is intended to be heard’.

TECH-O-METER

PANASONIC LUMIX G100 From `58,990, panasonic.com Designed to provide value and superior performance to meet the needs of today’s rising number of vloggers, the all-new Lumix G100 is Panasonic’s new compact camera in their mirrorless portfolio. The new Lumix G100 features a 20.3MP MOS sensor without a Low-Pass Filter. It’s capable of instantly uploading and sharing pictures on social media through a smartphone or a tablet via the ‘Lumix Sync App’ and with a maximum ISO of 25600, the Lumix G100 is also equipped with the 5-Axis Hybrid Image Stabiliser. The Lumix G100 is capable of shooting Full HD videos at a variety of frame-rates but is limited to shooting 4K at the standard 30p. Creating well-focused videos with oneself as the subject has become easier through a 3” Free-angle and 180-degree rotating LCD screen, and an automatic ‘Video Selfie’ mode – that activates when users flip the screen around and point the camera at themselves. The Lumix comes with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity and it weighs just 412g. It comes with the Lumix G Vario 12-32mm – F/3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA OIS: (H-FS12032) lens.

T3 SAYS: Its compatibility with an additional grip and lightweight mirrorless system is fast enough to capture the action.

TECH-O-METER

12 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Discover Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Blossoming Colours

The Shapoorji Pallonji Native Biodiversity Garden has over 60,000 plants of 530+ different native species in 17 thematic sections

Open all days 9.00 am - 1.00 pm 2.00 pm - 4.30 pm address Native Biodiversity Garden, Next to Teenvira Dam, Mumbai-Alibaug Road, Alibaug, Maharashtra

COntaCt (for group visits) Mr. Harshad Langi +91 8983891617 www.spbiodiversitygardens.com

www.shapoorjipallonji.com Shapoorji Pallonji And Company Private Limited Corporate Office : SP Centre, 41/44 Minoo Desai Marg, Colaba, Mumbai 400 005, India. Tel +91 22 6749 0000

Horizon NOKIA 5.4 `TBA, nokia.com/in The Nokia 5.4 is the highlight of the new budget-friendly Nokia smartphones that match up to the speed of today’s phones. Powered by the impressive Qualcomm Snapdragon 662, the Nokia 5.4 features a 6.39” HD+ punch-hole display through a design that harbours a durable rear cover, capable of withstanding the weight of about 70 pounds, and colours that resemble a winter night’s sky. The 4000mAh battery is made large enough for most daily needs and with the aid of the AI Adaptive Battery technology can help even go further. The smartphone runs on the latest Android 11 along with the promise of three years of monthly security updates and two years of software upgrades. The Nokia 5.4 offers a good quad-camera setup at the rear with a 48MP main camera and an ultra-wide lens. The depth sensor and the macro camera are standards and 16MP front camera is a bonus as well. The 5.4 can shoot 24fps and 60fps videos.

T3 SAYS: Available in the 4GB and 6GB RAM options, with the memory extending up to 128GB, the Nokia 5.4 can give other budget players a good run for their money.

TECH-O-METER

VIEWSONIC X100-4K `3,85,000, viewsonic.com/in The X100-4K+ is, surely, priced steeply, thus, making it accessible to only those with relatively deeper pockets. But it does have its own sets of pros, which raise the projector’s level into one of the finest in today’s world for home and personal use. The X100-4K+ UHD projector delivers a brightness of 2900 lumens through a 2nd-generation LED technology and its design greatly enhances the viewers’ audio-visual experience.

Along with HDR imaging, the X100-4K+ also comes with the Cinema Supercolor+ technology with 125% Rec.709 and Harman Kardon-customised audio. The projector also features ViewSonic’s unique wide lens shift, which offers a range of +/25% (horizontal) and +60% (vertical). This enables users to adjust the location of the projected image without needing to physically move the projector. ViewSonic’s audio design has also gotten a boost through their ability to lower the fan noise to about 20dB, enabling a better viewing experience even if the users don’t connect to an external sound system. The X1004K+ also features a built-in app store through content providers and supports Alexa and Google Assistant via voice control.

T3 SAYS: Many will be put off by its price, but the X100-4K+ LED Projector does come with a premium design and powerpacked features.

TECH-O-METER

14 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Now read your favourite magazine wherever you go...

Available on PC... Mac... Tablet... or any other handheld device!

RE VI EW S

G SONY VLO ZV�1

FUJIFILM

NIKON

CAMERA

X100V

Z6 II

AGAZINE! 1 IMAGING M ER B M U N ’S INDIA

`1 50

Interview

atra Avishe P Profile

Nilakkhya

Dutta

Special

ar 2021

Calend Kingfisher Tutorial

ndar

le Make a Ca ed Also Review

Google ld PicsArt Go

4a

Digital Platform Partners Available on

www.zinio.com/smartphotography

Horizon EPOS ADAPT 660 `TBA, eposaudio.com Featuring an adaptive 4 ANC microphone system, the Adapt 660 offers multi-point connectivity via Bluetooth to mobile and other devices simultaneously.

Offering superior and personalised audio, the Adapt 660 EPOS is also certified for Microsoft Teams and supports Alexa that can be activated by just tapping and holding the ear cup. The headset utilises the latest machine learning algorithms for clear voice deliverance, and it also monitors the environment in which it functions by adjusting the noise reduction optimally. Through a flat-folding design with rotating ear cups, the Adapt 660 EPOS offers up to 30 hours of battery life. Using Bluetooth v5.0, the Adapt 660 EPOS also features NFC, audio cable with 2.5mm and 3.5mm jack plugs and a USB cable with microUSB connector.

T3 SAYS: The Adapt 660 EPOS is an impressive 227-gram headset which is a multi-functional audio device enabling users to do more than just listen to superior audio.

TECH-O-METER

HISENSE TORNADO 55” 4K TV `44,990, hisense.com Hisense’s first addition to their new Tornado series is the impressive 55” 4K TV whose ultra-slim design and 102W sound system – which is powered by a 6 JBL speakers – delivers a powerful experience to users. The 55” TV is also equipped with the latest Dolby Atmos technology, which provides a moving audio on-screen – thus encapsulating viewers into a realistic environment. The nearly bezel-less finish of the TV is bolstered through the Dolby Vision HDR technology that holds more details in highlights and shadows. The Ultra Dimming technology and Ultra Vivid High Contrast Panel enable a much more dynamic viewing experience. The 55” Tornado supports HDR10+, HLG, and HDR10. It’s also bolstered through the Noise Reduction capabilities and a ‘Game Mode’. The Hisense Tornado 4K TV runs on Android v9.0 and supports Google Assistant and Chromecast. Dual-Band Wi-Fi support enables users to experience 5G speeds to effortlessly stream 4K content on top platforms. The remote also possesses hotkeys providing direct access to top platforms.

T3 SAYS: The Hisense Tornado series of smart TVs do offer a ton of exciting features but don’t stray away from what’s already out there.

TECH-O-METER

16 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Horizon MI QLED TV 4K `54,999, mi.com/in With a classy design and a host of flagship smart TV features, the 55” Mi QLED TV 4K is cased in an aluminium frame and it comes with industry-wide HDR support like Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). The Mi QLED TV’s 4K panel offers a 100% NTSC wider colour spectrum and is further bolstered by Mi’s Vivid Picture Engine, which delivers a much more immersive viewing experience with better textures and details. It also features Reality Flow that delivers smoother and blur-free visuals with support for HDMI 2.1 that brings useful features like eARC, ALLM and low-input lag of 5ms at 4K 60fps. With 4 full-range drivers and 2 tweeters, the Mi QLED Smart TV is also Mi’s first 6-speaker set up with a frequency range of 50-20KHz and support for Dolby Audio and DTS-HD whilst delivering a total power of 30 Watts. The Mi QLED 4K Smart TV is powered by the MTK 64-bit A55 quad-core processor with 2GB RAM that takes care of the new and improved PatchWall user interface.

T3 SAYS: Running on the latest version of PatchWall, built on Android 10, and with over 25 content partners in addition to its ability to support next-gen consoles.

TECH-O-METER

REDMI 9 POWER From `10,999, mi.com/in A 6000mAh battery, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 processor, and a 48MP quad-camera system – all do justice to the name ‘Redmi 9 Power’ and what makes the smartphone more attractive is its highly affordable pricing. Equipped with a 6.53” FHD+ display offering a brightness of 400nits, the Redmi 9 Power sports a 4GB RAM with up to 128GB of storage which is expandable to up to 512GB through a microSD card.

The smartphone houses a 48MP Samsung GM1 main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, a 2MP depth sensor, and a 2MP macro camera. It also has an 8MP front camera. For security, it has a fingerprint sensor and AI Face Unlock capabilities. The Redmi 9 Power is also capable of handling games, thanks to the Adreno 610 GPU and is Hi-Res Audio certified that improves the overall listening experience.

T3 SAYS: The Redmi 9 Power is a great entry-level smartphone.

TECH-O-METER

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 17

Horizon HUAMI AMAZFIT GTS 2 `12,999, in.amazfit.com With a stylish rectangular 1.65” AMOLED screen, the slim Amazfit GTS 2 is the latest addition to the GT 2 series. Available in midnight black, desert gold, or urban grey aluminium alloy cases with matching straps, the Amazfit GTS 2 also comes with the familiar BioTracker 2 PPG optical sensor – monitors users heartbeats – and a host of other sensors like the Gyroscope, Air Pressure sensor, ambient light sensor and is also capable of monitoring sleep and providing users with their health data through the integrated PAI Health Assessment System. The GTS 2 has 90+ built-in sports modes, making it practical for almost anyone and it also has about 3GB of music storage. Along with providing haptic feedback for calls and notifications, the GTS 2 also has a built-in microphone and speaker and is also bolstered through a 240mAh battery which can last for around 7 days.

T3 SAYS: The Amazfit GTS 2 is great for all kinds of users, but if you are looking for something more affordable, there’s also the GTS 2 mini with scaleddown features.

TECH-O-METER

HUAMI AMAZFIT GTR 2 From `12,999, in.amazfit.com Following the footsteps of its well-received predecessor, the Huami Amazfit GTR 2 offers a range of extensive health and fitness features and a long-lasting battery life and dials up the notch of creativity in a smartwatch through its impressive design and analogue-looking watch faces. Available with either a stainless steel or black aluminium alloy case, the GTR 2 comes with a 1.39” AMOLED display with a well-crafted 3D curved glass. The display is made of the tough 3D Corning Gorilla glass with optical Diamond-like Carbon (oDLC) and anti-fingerprint coatings, making the screen scratch-resistant and strong. The GTR 2 comes with the familiar BioTracker 2 PPG optical sensor which tracks users heart rates at all times and can also support ‘OxygenBeats’ which measures blood-oxygen saturation. The GTR 2 offers all kinds of analytical outlooks on the users sleep patterns as well and feature the innovative PAI Health Assessment System.

There’s 3GB of local music storage along with haptic vibration feedback for calls and notifications and an offline voice control feature. The GTR 2 I equipped with a 471mAh battery and 90+ Sports modes.

T3 SAYS: The Amazfit GTR series integrates well-being, smart features, and stylish looks into one watch – which offer users a bang for their buck.

TECH-O-METER

18 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Travel

WARMING WINTER GEAR HELLY HANSEN H1 PRO LIFA SEAMLESS 1/2 ZIP Helly Hansen’s tech-packed top is ace. LIFA technology gy draws moisture away from the skin so that it can evaporate, while a combination of thermal mapping technology and laser cutting ensures perfect temperature regulation. hellyhansen.com

COLUMBIA THREE FORKS BLACK DOT JACKET Columbia’s jacket, which launched in late 2020, features Omni-Heat Black Dot technology.

Think of it as an external heat shield, courtesy of small black dots on the fabric that trap warmth and capture solar heat, keeping you toasty. columbiasportswear.com

VANGO RADIATE HEAT MAT For some hi-tech heat, consider Vango’s heat mat, powered by a graphene heat element guaranteed to ward off any winter chills. This slimline mat slips into the smallest of sleeping bags, has four heat settings and can be charged using a power bank. vango.com

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

TRIP THE LIGHT FANTASTIC

GO FOR AN AURORA TOUR Hunker down in comfortable surroundings while gazing skyward to behold the northern lights, one of nature’s most dazzling spectacles The northern lights are expected to be fantastically bright this winter, thanks partly to cleaner, clearer skies, so why not take an aurora-borealis-themed adventure?

Here’s where to watch the greatest light show on the planet. Don’t make the mistake of assuming you have to head overseas to admire the aurora borealis. The dark skies above Northumberland National Park earned the region its Dark Sky Park designation in 2013, and it’s a great spot to observe the Northern Lights. We recommend basing yourself at Bardon Mill’s Twice Brewed Inn (twicebrewedinn.co.uk), with its packed calendar of stargazing events and team of aurora experts. This wonderfully cosy hotel even has its own observatory on-site.

If you’re keen to head further afield, consider Finland’s remote Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (kakslauttanen.fi), where you can bed down in a glass dome. A spectacular winter wonderland in the far north of the country, the resort has ice igloos and log cabins too, and if the lights don’t come out to play, there are plenty of ways to pass the time, including snowmobile safaris, ice fishing lessons and cross-country skiing excursions.

Slightly more accessible is Tromsø in northern Norway (visitnorway.com). This beautiful, tiny city offers the best of both

worlds – the thick tracts of wilderness that surround it make it a great base for auroraspotting excursions, and there’s plenty to do in the city itself. Check out the Arctic Cathedral, a modern masterpiece built by legendary Norwegian architect Jan Inge Hovig in 1965, before toasting the aurora borealis at the world’s northern-most brewery – the Mack brewery, founded in 1877.

We recommend sampling the Arctic Beer – this floral, golden ale was the first beer to reach the North Pole on an overland expedition, when it was taken there by a Norwegian team. You could also go on a cable car ride up to Mount Storsteinen.

Finally, long-haul travel hasn’t been easy recently, but one destination that should be on your aurora bucket list is Alberta’s Wood Buffalo National Park (pc.gc.ca), one of Canada’s best destinations to spot the Northern Lights. During the winter months, the skies above this remote frozen paradise are filled with intense auroral displays. It’s also a great place to spot some of North America’s finest winter wildlife, including bison, wolves, lynx, snowshoe hares and ptarmigans. The remoteness of the park means five-star hotels are few and far between, so we suggest renting one of the cosy log cabins instead.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 19

Style

HIT THE RIGHT NOTES Fragrance is a powerful thing. It’ll brighten your mood on a big day, and even make you more memorable, so finding the right one is vital…

RICHARD JAMES AQUA AROMATICA BLACK VANILLA Headily complex and seductive, with the vanilla accord melding with precious woods for a warm touch. A little will go a long way. richard-james.com DUNHILL SIGNATURE COLLECTION VALENSOLE LAVENDER Warm notes of saffron, nutmeg, sage and amber pair beautifully with the classic lavender to provide a versatile winter scent. harrods.com MAISON SYBARITE AMBER GAZE The first-ever water-based fine fragrance, this new subtle oriental scent smells amazing and is sustainable, with no ethyl alcohol, parabens, phthalates or silicones. maison-sybarite.com IKON 807 Formulated with natural, vegan and responsibly sourced ingredients, perfectly balanced for gender-neutral notes. thefragranceshop.com THE NUE CO FOREST LUNGS How about a scent which does more than just smell nice? Forest Lungs replicates compounds emitted by trees scientifically proven to ease stress and anxiety. thenueco.com

MONEY NO OBJECT Frank Hurley Photographer’s Jacket We admit this might be a little niche, but if you’re a Leica-owning photographer who spends their weekends photographing polar bears or climbing mountains, this is undoubtedly the jacket for you. It’s designed to be worn in extreme weather, but also has deep pockets to house your camera body and lens, plus extra compartments for SD cards, spare batteries, and other accessories.

The jacket offers a hard-wearing Cordura shell, high-frequency seam sealing to keep drafts out, and 800-fill European goose down to keep you toasty. A graphene lining

20 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

provides “revolutionary heat regulation” right down to -25C. It’s also antimicrobial, anti-UV and anti-radiation, and reduces humidity.

The design and location of the pockets are intended to protect your camera and its batteries from the cold, using your body heat to prevent damage. Some real thought has also gone into the location of the coat’s pockets.

For example, there’s one on the upper arm for storing your lens cleaner. There’s also an adjustable hood with detachable synthetic fur trim. shackletonlondon.com

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Style

WHICH WATCH

THE HOTTEST TIMEPIECES RIGHT NOW

TAG HEUER, CARRERA CHRONOGRAPH To mark the brand’s 160th anniversary this year, the Carrera collection welcomes a new addition – which features an elegant design UHPLQLVFHQW RI KLVWRULF PRGHOV EXW ZLWK D WRXFK RI PRGHUQ ćDLU tagheuer.com

SWATCH, 1983 COLLECTION The ‘1983’ collection is made from bio-sourced material extracted from the seeds of the castor plant, while the packaging is fully biodegradable and can be recycled or even composted at home. swatch.com

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

HAMILTON, TON KHAKI AVIATION CONVERTE CONVERTER GMT The 42mm automatic version of the Khaki Aviation Converter steps up the game with a balance spring made of Nivachron alloy, an H[FOXVLYH QHZ PDWHULDO ZLWK VXSHULRU UHVLVWDQFH WR PDJQHWLF ĆHOGV hamiltonwatch.com

JAEGER-LECOULTRE, POLARIS MARINER The Polaris Mariner pays homage to the Maison’s past whilst featuring the latest Calibre 899, which has been updated with performanceenhancing technology to guarantee a power reserve of 70 hours. jaeger-lecoultre.com

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 21

Horizon Gadget Guru

T3’s priceless techmeister gives advice you can’t buy anywhere

SANJAY MAKHIJA

ILLUSTRATIONS: STEPHEN KELLY

Can I use an OLED TV as a monitor? vastly superior to that of LCDGuru can’t control what A you do in the privacy of based TVs, particularly in newer

your own home. You’re welcome to use just about any screen as a monitor. The question isn’t one of ‘can I do it?’, but ‘should I do it?’; mostly, Guru would recommend against using non-monitors as monitors, because monitors are meant to be used as monitors whereas non-monitors are not.

TVs are built to be enjoyed from across a room, playing content from distinctly non-PC sources.

In the case of OLED, though, things aren’t quite so cut and dried. The precision and speed of its pixel updates tends to be

models like LG’s CX series TVs, which is great for PC gaming. It leads to what can be imperceptibly low latency, although you may find that LCD’s slower pixel response gives you what feels like a smoother experience.

Problem is, for all manufacturers’ efforts, burn-in is still a thing,

ABOVE The optimal viewing distance for a set this size?

0.5 miles

FOR ALL MANUFACTURERS’ EFFORTS, BURN-IN IS STILL A THING, WHICH MAKES A TV A POOR CHOICE FOR USING IN A DESKTOP CAPACITY

22 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

which makes a TV a poor choice for using in a desktop capacity.

What’s more, OLED TVs go from big to bigger, which is an ergonomic nightmare when you’re right up close – particularly if they have a thick rear construction that prevents them from being set right back on a desk. All this aside, let it be known that Guru makes at least two calls a day to LG’s offices to encourage the company to make OLED screens small enough to be used as a monitor without GaGu’s neck feeling like it’s going to fall off. No results yet – but the company has put a new factory online for its 48-inch panels, so we’ll see what happens.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Gadget Guru

SAJID A.

Wired security cam or wireless, Guru?

The world is going wired, and GaGu can see why.

Wireless cams are all fancy and aesthetically pleasing, sure, but they have a number of fundamental flaws baked into them. One, it is a monumental pain in the unmentionables to have to whip out the ladder every couple of months for a battery change, not to mention trusting one of the junior members of the household to hold it without wandering off while muttering about Pokémon and YouTubers or something. Two, they place a heavy reliance on the integrity either of your Wi-Fi network or their own wireless protocols.

Three, wireless cams can be (but aren’t always) a little punishing on the wallet.

Some cameras mitigate at least a subset of these concerns with clever design. The Blink Outdoor, now rolling out to replace the XT2 takes two AA batteries, and lasts up to two years without needing

A

to be rejuiced. The new Sync Module 2, which deals with its wireless communication, can store captured footage locally, improving on the online-only storage of the previous generation. Some cameras can also work with solar panels, like the Ring Spotlight Cam Battery, or Reolink’s rather nifty little line of cams.

But with a wired camera and the willingness to drill holes in your walls, you get reliability and often far finer features at a lower price. Guru has been testing, for example, the Ezviz C3N, which is a really rather good little camera with spotlights, strong night vision, and AI person detection.

The company’s new C3X upgrades the ‘colour’ night vision of the lesser model (which really just switches on a spotlight at night) to actual dual-lens colour night vision, again at a more affordable price than many wireless alternatives.

ABOVE There’s nothing sadder than a dachshund with an identity crisis

GADGET GURU’S MAGIC BOX Because Mrs Guru is now working from home, GaGu’s mind is being forcibly turned once again to renovations. There’s a whole trickle-down list of jobs to be done, the first of which was for Guru to board the loft.

Given the ample insulation of Guru Towers (GaGu will still not have turned the heating on by the time you read this) simply screwing boards onto the joists is a bad idea in terms of both damp and crushing the ceilings below. Cue a kit from LoftZone, with steel crossbeams and recycled plastic legs, which allows even DIY incompetents like Guru to install a raised floor above that lung-scouring fibreglass. It’s not too pricey, either. Time will tell if GaGu’s installation causes a massive collapse.

One thing his trip to the rafters proved beyond all do oubt is that Guru’s po oor back is not well suited to spending its days bent in two. In general that spine

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

is treated ratherr well – ergonomic chair from da Noblechairs and standing desk riser from Yo-Yo Dessk, if you must know – but it needed a little extra therapy. Cue the JaxJox Foam Roller Connect, a vibrating torture device that helps loosen those tight muscles using an app which doesn’t let you just sack off the unnatural-feeling back bends after 30 seconds. It does ask what workout you’ve just performed before bossing you around; annoyingly, ‘contorting yourself into the loft’ is not one of these.

Not that the family hasn’t been having any fun. Guru invested in some Lego: the epic Lego Technic Liebherr R 9800 Excavator, which is a massive build with some serious post-construction play. It’s motorised, app-controllable, and the cats despise it, much like they do Guru himself.

ABHAY KAMATH

Can you help me identify my dog’s breed? has long suspected A Guru that his dog Teeth is, in fact, part racoon, but was unable to prove it until the recent explosion of dog DNA tests. This sounds like a preposterous idea, much like human DNA tests, although it could offer some of the same benefits. You may be able to determine just how fat your dog should be, the diseases you might like to look out for, or if you’ve been sold a false bill of goods by the chap in the pub who swears a Dalmatian’s spots are supposed to be pink. Wisdom Panel’s 2.0 Canine DNA Test seems to be the best out there, with over 350 breeds and variants in the company’s database, but there’s a catch: it’s a US-based company, so you’ll need to hope both that the cheek swab doesn’t deteriorate on the journey over the pond and that the results bear any resemblance to your dog whatsoever. Most buyers seem happy, but some Amazon customers have had particularly bizarre breed suggestions.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 23

Horizon Fitness

WORKOUT RECOVERY GEAR UA RECOVER ER LEGACY TROUSERS The fabric insid de the UA Recover Leg gacy Trousers is said d to return infrared d energy to your body, helping y you recover from ru uns faster. The tape ered leg fit also help ps keep the warm mth in. The zipped back pocket is a bonus. bonus underarmour.com

NECK TECH

BACK ON TRACK Backed by Alistair Brownlee, the INCUS | NOVA tracker now also provides advanced running metrics Fitness trackers and running watches are most usually worn on the wrist and therefore provide information based on how one side of the body moves.

This information is analysed and extrapolated by the algorithms in the watch to ‘guess’ how the rest of the body moves.

The INCUS | NOVA tracker (incusperformance.com) promises a different approach. Originally developed to track advanced swimming metrics, the NOVA is now capable of providing advanced running metrics too.

These metrics include running power; average pace; cadence; take-off

acceleration; landing deceleration; elevation profile and distance. And although some of these can be tracked by running watches already, due to the location of the NOVA tracker – it’s positioned on top of the spine – it promises to provide more accurate numbers than wrist wearables.

Just recently, professional triathlete Alistair Brownlee joined the INCUS team as a strategic advisor. “I believe this level of insight will be a game changer for those seeking to race at their best; with unrivalled insights and data at their fingertips, enabling them to get the very most out of each and every training session,” Brownlee said.

POWDER POWER

PERSONALISED NUTRITION NGX shakes combine DNA and nutrition to optimise performance and recovery

Most protein powders follow a one-size-fits-all approach. NGX Nutrition (nutri-genetix.com) is trying to solve this issue by combining genetics with nutrition.

As part of the package, a DNA test is conducted that focuses on genes related to nutrition, such as ones responsible for metabolising lactose, vitamins and minerals. Once the profile is created, a one-to-one webinar is held with an NGX nutritionist to explain the results and participants also receive NGX powder.

Perfect for people who work out.

24 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

ASICS GT-2000 GT 2000 RUNNING SHOES The ASICS GT-2000 series has been going on for a while: 30 years to be precise. These running shoes are perfect for recovery and combine lightweight cushioning with optimal underfoot support. The GT-2000 uses the latest FlyteFoam and Gel technology to put a spring in your stride at every step. asics.com

ADIDAS REFLECTIVE LONG-SLEEVE TOP No need to abandon running when the weather gets cold, as long as you are wearing the right type of clothing. The ctive Adidas Reflec Long-Sleeve Top uses the moisturewicking ‘Aeroready’ technology and features reflective details for better visibility.

adidas.com

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Hi-Fi

ISSUE 66/ JANUARY 2021

Hi-Fi

Here at T3 India we appreciate the high-fidelity reproduction of the sound and keeping that in mind, the Hi-Fi section aims to bring everything related to Hi-Fi audio, including tips & tricks, interesting Hi-Fi products and a lot more.

Inside

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

26

Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2

27

CD, Vinyl or Streaming?

28

Classic Artistes

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 25

Hi-Fi BOWERS & WILKINS

BOWERS & SPEAKERSANNIVERSARY EDITION WORDS H. S. Billimoria

T

he firm, Bowers & Wilkins started in Worthing, Sussex, UK in 1966 and was named after its promoters, John Bowers and Roy Wilkins. From the beginning, the emphasis was on technology and the result was some of the best loudspeakers the world has seen.

B & W speakers rank amongst the best loudspeakers in the world and the company has a huge heritage of iconic models. The 21st century was hard for specialist speaker manufacturers and many reputed British brands like Castle, Heybrook and Celestion bit the dust.

Others like Wharfedale, Tannoy and KEF were acquired by Oriental buyers. B & W was acquired in 2016 by Canadian company, Eva Automation. In October 2020, Sound United LLC, based in California (and owner of brands like Marantz and Denon) acquired B & W. T3 has on its test bench, the smallest of B & W’s speakers in the 600 Series for review, the 607 S2. Since the 600 series has completed 25 successful years, the current

26 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

edition has been christened the Anniversary Edition. Unlike its elder brother, the 606, the 607 speakers are less sensitive (84 dB at 8 ohms) but can handle upto 100 Watts per channel. Ideally, the amp should be over 30 Watts per channel.

Technically, the 607s feature an aluminium dome tweeter that is decoupled from the main cabinet and a continuum cone driver for mid tones and bass. The speakers are available in black, white or oak finish and can be bi-wired. Each speaker weighs 4.7 Kgs and measures 30x16.5x30.7 cms. Solid stand mounts are strongly recommended.

We auditioned the 607s with the Marantz 6006 amplifier and Marantz 6006 CD player. The followindg CDs were used in the audition: Brahms Symphonies Nos 1 & 2 (Weiner Philharminiker) Gipsy Kings Greatest Hits Bobby Goldsboro’s Honey Mohammed Rafi & Shankar Jaikishan Vol 1 Even without the mandatory run in, the 607s acquitted themselves brilliantly.

Clarity, detail and balance were all of a high order. So was stereo separation.

The speakers did justice to all types of music. Bi-wiring also improved the sound and made it more cohesive and punchy.

Overall, a super performance.

The 607 S2 was being retailed in London at 449 pounds. The Indian MRP is `75,000.

Obviously, discounts will be available.

Combine them with a quality amplifier from the Marantz, NAD or Denon stable and they will give you hours and hours of listening pleasure. We would be very surprised if the 607 S2 did not sweep the awards in its category.

PLUS

Finish Sound quality Very musical MINUS Nothing

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Hi-Fi

CD, VINYL OR STREAMING? WHICH SOURCE SHOULD YOU GO IN FOR? WORDS H. S. Billimoria

W

e all know that the quality of the sound produced by your hi fidelity system depends on the source. For those entering the world of hifi, the choice as far as the source is concerned, is wide open. For those already committed, it is a more difficult decision.

Let us see the virtues and drawbacks of each format.

The CD format was introduced in the 1980s. CDs or Compact Discs when introduced, rapidly gained popularity over vinyl because they had a better signal to noise ratio, better stereo channel separation and no variation in playback speed. The dynamic range of Cds is over 90dB, that of an LP record is about 70. Cds are also estimated to last for 100 years if carefully looked after. They are less susceptible to getting scratched and light scratches can be removed easily. Also, given their size, CDs are more convenient to handle, store and use. Again, the cost of CDs has dropped sharply making them more attractive.

Finally, the quality of CD players has improved dramatically. Take the example of the Marantz 8006, the Denon 1600 NE or the Rega Saturn. All superb CD players.

Twenty years ago, the humble LP record was as good as dead. Avid audiophiles had junked their record collections and moved to CDs. A number of record pressing plants were scrapped or mothballed. The revival started five years ago. The music industry was desperate for a new cash stream. Piracy was eating at their foundations. At the same time, there was a small but vocal section of audiophiles who claimed that the sound from Cds was clinical and not warm like that of records. Again, records could be played on both sides unlike CDs. Further, the larger size of records allowed

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

imaginative designs of the cover and sleeves and give more exhaustive information on the recording artiste. The industry took the clue and new turntables started hitting the market. The Project Company of Czechoslovakia increased its capacity and also started making turntables for other brands. Japanese giant, Technics restarted turntable production. New record pressing plants were commissioned. The 180 gm LP record saw a rebirth. Prices of new LPs, however soared. LP records today cost three to five times the cost of a CD. Records can still be scratched easily and pop and crackle is still a part of the listening experience.

Also, records require more human interaction. But vinyl lovers do not seem to mind. Today, manufacturers like Audio Technica, Project, Technics and Rega are reaping the benefits of the revival.

The music industry seemingly solved the problem of piracy through streaming.

Streaming requires a high quality internet signal and a high quality streamer.

Companies like Spotify and Tidal have a whole repertoire of music that you can access for a monthly fee. A low quality stream can be yours for free. Streaming means that you do not need to block space in storing your records or CDs at home. You can also listen to the track of your choice and not have to listen to the whole LP or CD. On the other hand, it deprives you of the joy of ‘possessing’ the music of your favourite artiste.

The way we see it, we can see all three formats coexist. And just in case you did not know, the sale of cassettes in the USA and UK doubled last year albeit from a low base.

Be prepared for the next revival!

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 27

PLAGIARISM

PLAGIARISM â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

COMMON TO EVERYONE? Words: H. S. Billimoria

The culture of Indian music is very rich and Bollywood music KDV SOD\HG D VLJQLÄ&#x2020;FDQW SDUW LQ PRXOGLQJ SXEOLF WDVWHV 0XVLF composers like Naushad, O P Nayyar, S D Burman, Shankar -DLNLVKDQ DQG RWKHUV KDYH Ä&#x2020;OOHG WKH UHSHUWRLUH RI ,QGLDQ PXVLF ZLWK PHPRUDEOH WXQHV 7KH FRPSXOVLRQV RI WKH UDW UDFH KDV compelled many a music director to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;liftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tunes from foreign VRXUFHV LQFOXGLQJ RXU QH[W GRRU QHLJKERU 3DNLVWDQ 7KH QDPHV RI $QX 0DOLN %DSSL /DKLUL DQG 3ULWDP RIWHQ IHDWXUH at the top of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;copiedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; songs. However, equally guilty have EHHQ PXVLF GLUHFWRUV OLNH /D[PLNDQW 3\DUHODO DQG 5DKXO 'HY %XUPDQ %RWK /3 DQG 5'% ZHUH QR GRXEW WDOHQWHG EXW ERWK ZHUH JXLOW\ RI OLIWLQJ WXQHV WKDW VXEVHTXHQWO\ EHFDPH VXSHUKLWV LQ WKH ,QGLDQ PDUNHW 2I FRXUVH QR acknowledgement was made of the source.

-XVW WDNH WKUHH VXSHUKLW Ä&#x2020;OPV Ã¥ .$5= +80 DQG 6+2/$< ç2P 6KDQWL 2P ç IURP .DU] ZDV FRSLHG IURP /RUG 6KRUW\èV 2P 6KDQWL 2P ç(N KDVHHQD WKLè IURP .DU] LV D VWUDLJKW OLIW from George Bensonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We as loveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; . Till the plagiarism was discovered, it was treated almost like Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national song. ,Q +80 /D[PLNDQW 3\DUHODO VKDPHOHVVO\ FRSLHG ç7DPDè E\ 0RUL .DQWH 6R GLG %DSSL /DKLUL RI FRXUVH EXW WKDW GRHVQèW DEVROYH /3 $JDLQ LQ +80 /3 KDYH OLIWHG 0RUL .DQWHèV ç,QVKD $OODKè IRU WKHLU WXQH ç(N GRRVUH VH ç 5 ' %XUPDQ OLIWHG WKH ç0HKERRED 0HKERREDè WXQH RI 6KROD\ IURP 'HPLV 5RXVVRèV ç6D\ \RX ORYH PHè $JDLQ 6KROD\èV ç-DE 7DN KDLQ -DDQè KDV EHHQ OLIWHG IURP DQ ,UDQLDQ QXPEHU -RPHK E\ *RRJRRVK

28 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

:H KDYH OLVWHG D IHZ RI /3èV DQG 5'%èV OLIWHG WXQHV :H DVVXUH \RX WKHUH DUH PDQ\ PRUH ,W LV GLIÄ&#x2020;FXOW WR EHOLHYH WKDW WKH VDPH /3 JDYH RULJLQDO PHORGLHV OLNH 0LODQ DQG 6DUJDP 7KH VDPH 5' DOVR JDYH XV -DZDDQL 'LZDQL 7HHVUL 0DQ]LO DQG +DUH 5DP +DUH .ULVKQD 3UHVVXUHV RI GLVKLQJ RXW PRUH WXQHV WKDQ KXPDQO\ SRVVLEOH QR GRXEW WRRN LWV WROO

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

PLAGIARISM

LP won the Filmfare Award for Karz.

In 1981, no one knew that two of its blockbuster songs were copied.

One could argue that copying from foreign tunes is one thing. Copying from another veteran music director, however, is unpardonable. But Bappi Lahiri did just that with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gori hai kalaiyanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in Aaj ka Arjun. Bappi stole Shankarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ( of Shankar Jaikishan fame) â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gori hai kalaiyanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which was recorded in the voice of Kavita Krishnamurthy for Sudhakar Sharmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gori. Shankar died after recording the WXQH DQG *RUL UDQ LQWR Ä&#x2020;QDQFLDO SUREOHPV and was never released. Bappi , however, laughed all the way to the bank with a tune that he had not composed. He won the Filmfare Award for the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gori hai kalaiyanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; song.

SOME OF LPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S AND RDBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LIFTED TUNES Laxmikant Pyarelal

.$5=

.$5=

+80

+80

5$-.80$5

/227(5$

%2%%<

,16$$1

5$0 %$/5$0(N

-8'$$,

1$6((%

$53$1

&+$$/%$$=

<$$'21 ., .$6$0(N

2P 6KDQWL 2P (N +DVHHQD WKL &KXPPD GH GH (N GRRVUH VH 3DD\DO PHUL 5DDW NR NDKR $QNKL\RQ VH 6DDWKL\D 5DVWD 7HUH QDDP NH =LQGDJL ,PWHKDDQ $VDQ KXQ 1D -DDQH (N KDVHHQD NL

FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP

/RUG 6KRUW\èV 2P 6KDQWL 2P

*HRUJH %HQVRQèV :H $V /RYH 0RUL .DQWHèV 7DPD 0RUL .DQWHèV ,QVKD $OODK *HRUJH 0LFKDHOèV )DLWK

'LFN 'DOHèV 0LVVLUORX

5HVKPD 3DN VLQJHU çV $QNKL\RQ VH %URWKHUKRRG RI 0DQèV $QJHOR

.& WKH 6XQVKLQH %DQGèV 7KDWèV WKH :D\ , OLNH LW

%RQH\ 0èV %URZQ *LUO LQ WKH 5LQJ %RQH\ 0èV 6WLOO ,èP 6DG

3DN VLQJHU $GDP /RKDUèV $VDX +XU $ODP /RKDUèV $VDQ KXQ 6WHYLH :RQGHUèV 3DUW 7LPH /RYHU $ WUDGLWLRQDO 3XVWXQ VRQJ

R D BURMAN

6+2/$<

6+2/$<

%+227 %81*/$

+80 .,6,6( .$0

*+$5

3+,5 .$% 0,/2*,

3$5,1'$

<$$'21 ., %$$5$7

6$1$0 7(5, .$6$0

-+227+$ .$+,1 .$

52&.<

.$$/,$

6$77( 3( 6$77$

.+(/ .+(/ 0(,1

%$'( ',/:$/(

/29( 6725<

0HKERRED PHKER $D MDE WDN KDLQ MDDQ $DR WZLVW NDUHQ 0LO JD\D 3KLU ZRKL .DKLQ NDUWL 7XPVH PLONH &KXUD /L\D 'HNKWD KX -HHYDQ NH KDU PRG $D GHNKH ]DUD -DKDQ WHUL \H QD]DU 'LOEDU PHUH (N PDLQ DXU HN WX -HHYDQ NH GLQ .DLVD WHUD S\DU

FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP FRSLHG IURP

'HPLV 5RXVVRVè6D\ \RX ORYH PHRED -RPHK E\ ,UDQLDQ VLQJHU *RRRJRVK &KXEE\ &KHFNHUèV /HWèV WZLVW DJDLQ $EEDèV 0DPD 0LD 1$+,1 6LQJ D VRQJè E\ WKH &DUSHQWHUV

7KH /RQHO\ %XOOè E\ +HUE $OEHUW WKH

:KHQ , QHHG \RXè E\ /HR 6D\HU ,I LWèV 7XHVGD\ LW PXVW EH %HOJLXP E\ %RMRXUD 0XVWDID

9HUDR 9HUPHOQR E\ 6DQWDQD

(YH RI WKH :DUè E\-HII :DU E\ -HII :D\QH +HOHK 0DDOLè E\ =LD $WDEL

=LJHXPHU -XQJH -XQJH E\ $OH[DQGUD )DPRXV QXUVHU\ UK\PH ç,I \RX DUH KDSS\ DQG \RX NQRZ LWè )UDQFLV /DLèV /RYH 6WRU\

$EEDèV , KDYH D GUHDP

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 29

Nail your fitness goals in 2021

NAIL

YOUR

FITNESS

GOALS

2021

IN

Time to work off that 2020 flab. Peruse our selection of strength-building, muscle-toning, limb-stretching tech and grab the gadgets you need to ensure new year means new you Words: Leon Poultney Photography: Neil Godwin

32 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Nail your fitness goals in 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 33

Nail your ďŹ tness goals in 2021

STRENGTHEN YOUR CORE Perfect kit for building up your back and augmenting your abs

1 2

4

3

1 NADI X SMART YOGA PANTS

2 BEST FITNESS AB-HYP BENCH

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s probably the least likely physical pursuit to receive a full technological makeover, but yoga is molten hot right now and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s RQH RI WKH Ä&#x2020;QHVW ORZ LPSDFW ways to improve strength and Ä&#x2021;H[LELOLW\ HVSHFLDOO\ ZKHUH WKH core is concerned. These hightech leggings feature embedded sensors and motors that offer yoga Ä&#x2021;RZ JXLGDQFH WKURXJK YLEUDWLRQ and audio prompts. No kidding! wearablex.com

Combining two of the most popular and longest running ab-building exercises in the book (the ab crunch and back hyperextension), this space-saving bench supports the lower body so users can perform all manner of crunches, sit-ups and leg extension exercises to strengthen the core and ensure that washboard VWRPDFK UHDOO\ SRSV ,W IROGV Ä&#x2021;DW when not in use, for easy stashing. Ä&#x2020;WQHVV VXSHUVWRUH FRP

34 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

3 ELEIKO DIPPING BELT

4 TECHNOGYM

Granted, if at home youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to SKILLMILL CONNECT have access to something sturdy What better way to shred fat and to take your weight. But once reveal abs than with the most youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re able to get your feet off punishing running experiences the ground with the upper body around? Designed to improve supporting your mass, a durable power, speed, stamina and stability leather dipping belt like this is the in pro athletes, this clever piece perfect way to gradually overload of tech adjusts its resistance the abs during hanging knee raises, automatically with user effort. pull-ups and tricep dips. Learning That makes it your best friend (or to properly engage the core during worst enemy) when it comes to these fundamental exercises is a performing high intensity interval great route to solid abs. training workouts. eleiko.com technogym.com W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Strengthen your core 5 P.VOLVE This app and equipment combo has been carefully curated to improve mind-muscle activation, meaning users are trained to achieve serious muscular workout without the injury causing intensity of, say, thousands of crunches. The system utilises patented resistance bands, glute activation balls and light weights to assist in its unique, appassisted high-intensity workouts, guaranteed to carve solid muscles and improve form. pvolve.com

6 PERFECT FITNESS AB 7 JAXJOX CARVER PRO KETTLEBELLCONNECT Crafting the six pack of your 2.0

8 SLENDERTONE CONNECT ABS TONING BELT

dreams neednâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cost the earth, as Forget investing in an entire this advanced abs roller boasts load of kettlebells, as this clever some basic but clever technology contraption stashes six different in a package that costs less than weights into one handy unit. most monthly gym memberships.

Simply press a button and the An interior kinetic engine, which kettlebell automatically adjusts uses a carbon steel spring to from 5.5kg to a hefty 19kg. Better provide resistance when rolling still, the kettlebell is one of the in and out, makes it far more best devices for achieving total approachable, while ergonomic body strength, which the apphand grips are deliberately angled based JaxJox on-demand and live to target arm and core muscles. classes can prove. amazon.com jaxjox.com

Working in conjunction with an app, this abs belt uses advanced electronic muscle stimulation (EMS) technology to contract the abdominal muscles. Essentially, you can kick back and chill while the belt sends signals to your abs and oblique muscles. There are between 1 and 100 intensity OHYHOV ZLWK Ä&#x2020;YH VSHFLÄ&#x2020;F WRQLQJ programmes that cover a range of end goals. Weird, but it works. slendertone.com

5

7

6

8

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 35

Nail your fitness goals in 2021

GET TRIM

Fix up, look sharp by getting the right helpers

1

4

3 2

1 WAHOO KICKR BIKE

2 NINJA BLENDER

3XUYH\RUV RI VRPH RI WKH ĆQHVW WXUER WUDLQHUV PRQH\ FDQ EX\ :DKRR KDV WDNHQ WKLQJV WR WKH QH[WbOHYHO E\ XQOHDVKLQJ DUJXDEO\ RQH RI WKH PRVW UHDOLVWLF LQGRRU F\FOLQJ H[SHULHQFHV DURXQG 7KH .LFNU %LNH LV VW\OHG OLNH D FDUERQ ĆEUH 7RXU GH )UDQFH UDFHU DQG IHDWXUHV UHDO URDG ELNH VW\OH JHDU VKLIWLQJ ,W LV DOVR UHDG\ WR UROO RXW RI WKH ER[ VHDPOHVVO\ LQWHJUDWLQJ ZLWK WKH :DKRR HFRV\VWHP DQG VRPH RI WKH EHVW YLUWXDO WUDLQLQJ SURJUDPPHV RXW WKHUH VXFK DV =ZLIW DQG 7KH 6XIIHUIHVW ZDKRRĆWQHVV FRP

*HWWLQJ WULP LV DV PXFK DERXW GLHW DV LW LV DERXW H[HUFLVH VR FOHDQ XS WKH GDLO\ LQWDNH RI FDORULHV ZLWK WKH EULOOLDQW VPRRWKLH PDNHU ,WV : PRWRU FDQ VOLFH WKURXJK IUR]HQ IUXLW YHJHWDEOHV DQG DOO PDQQHU RI KHDOWK\ VQDFNV $XWRPDWLF RQH WRXFK EOHQGLQJ SURJUDPV PDNH WKLQJV QLFH DQG HDV\ %HWWHU VWLOO HYHU\WKLQJ LV PL[HG LQWR WKH FXS VR \RX FDQ FUHDWH JUHDW WDVWLQJ KLJK SURWHLQ ERG\ IXHO TXLFNO\ DQG WKHQ FRQVXPH LW SRVW ZRUNRXW IRU PD[LPXP UHVXOWV ninjakitchen.com

36 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

3 PELOTON BIKE+

4 BODY POWER STRIKEMAN

,WèV QR VHFUHW WKDW ZRUNLQJ RXW ZLWKbRWKHUV LQFUHDVHV PRWLYDWLRQ %R[LQJ LV RQH RI WKH PRVW SK\VLFDOO\ DQG WKH OLNHOLKRRG RI VWLFNLQJ WR GHPDQGLQJ SXUVXLWV JRLQJ EXW WKH ĆWQHVV JRDOV 3HORWRQ ULIIV RQ WKRXJKW RI KDQJLQJ D KHDY\ DQG WKLV LGHD E\ EULQJLQJ FODVV EDVHG DZNZDUG SXQFK EDJ LV HQRXJK WR H[HUFLVH WR D GRPHVWLF VHWWLQJ ZLWK SXW PRVW RII 7KDWèV ZKHUH \RXU D VPDUW ELNH DQG DFFRPSDQ\LQJ QHZ EHVW IULHQG WKH 6WULNHPDQ GLVSOD\ WKDW KRVWV WKRXVDQGV RI FRPHV LQ +LV KLJK GHQVLW\ IRDP FODVVHV DQG OLYH OHDGHUERDUGV IRU WRUVR DQG QRJJLQ LV SHUIHFW IRU WKDW DGGHG NLFN XS WKH SRVWHULRU SXPPHOOLQJ ZKLOH WKH KHDY\ GXW\ $ IUHVK PRYHDEOH +' VFUHHQ DOVR EDVH LV VWXUG\ HQRXJK WR ZLWKVWDQG KHOSV ZLWK WKH QHZ ZHLJKWV EDVHG HYHQ WKH PLJKWLHVW RI VWUHVV UHVLVWDQFH FODVVHV WKDW \RX FDQ IXHOOHG XSSHU FXWV 7KH KHLJKW LV KLW ZKHQ \RXèUH QRW VSLQQLQJ \RXU DGMXVWDEOH VR LWèV JUHDW IRU SHRSOH OHJVbLQWR D IUHQ]\ RI DOO GLIIHUHQW KHLJKWV onepeloton.com ĆWQHVV VXSHUVWRUH FRP W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Get trim 5 FIIT APP AND FIIT DEVICE

6 POWER PLATE THE MOVE

Not got the space or the budget for one of Peloton’s offerings?

Consider Fiit. Offering hundreds of classes with live leaderboards, it harnesses the collective knowledge of 30 trainers, bringing everything from mobility to strength classes direct to your smartphone. The accompanying Fiit device analyses your effort and counts reps, so you can track progress, accrue points and move up ’boards the more you sweat. ĆLW WY

Essentially a smaller, more portable version of the hefty Power Plate machines in gyms, this diminutive unit features the same patented PrecisionWave vibration technology that is designed to stimulate natural reactions in the body to increase muscle activation. With a larger surface area than other domestic Power Plate products in the range, it helps users achieve a powerful, total body workout. powerplate.com

7 ACTIV5 POCKET GYM

8 GARMIN S2 SMART SCALE

This small but mighty gizmo works We are all created differently on the fundamentals of isometric DQGbRXU ZHLJKW LV PDGH XS RI training, where users hold a stress various proportions of bone mass, position rather than busting skeletal muscle mass, body fat and out rep after rep with weights. water percentage, which is why Essentially, the palm-sized device it pays to track these stats when measures the amount of force you shedding pounds safely. Garmin’s are putting through it, while an innovative tech measures these accompanying app coaches you key indicators and tracks it over through hundreds of different time, seamlessly synching with exercises. It’s possible to build *DUPLQèV HFRV\VWHP RI ĆWQHVV strength using only the force your trackers and computers for a body can muster. Clever huh?

PRUH GHWDLOHG ĆWQHVV SLFWXUH amazon.com garmin.com

6

5

7

8

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 37

Nail your fitness goals in 2021

BUILD MUSCLE Never be fri

jar again

1

3 2

4

1 BOWFLEX SELECTTECH 1090I 7KHVH DGMXVWDEOH GXPEEHOOV VKRXOG IRUP SDUW RI DQ\ SURVSHFWLYH PXVFOH EXLOGHUèV DUPRXU\ DV WKH XQLTXH GHVLJQ UHSODFHV XS WR VHWV RI GXPEEHOOV 7KH FOHYHU SDFNDJH VHHV DQ H[WHULRU URWDU\ JULS VHOHFW WKH GHVLUHG ZHLJKW ZLWK D TXLFN VSLQ PHDQLQJ \RX FDQ SLFN IURP NJ WR D KHIW\ NJ 3HUIHFW IRU WRXJK GURS VHWV $ % ZRUNRXWV DQG SURJUHVVLYH RYHUORDG WKH\ DUH GXUDEOH DQG FRPIRUWDEOH WR XVH ĆWQHVV VXSHUVWRUH FRP

2 ELEIK ELEIKO LEIK WEIGHTLIFTING TECHNIQUE BAR :LWK D ORZHU VWDUWLQJ ZHLJKW FKRRVH EHWZHHQ NJ RU NJ EDUV DQG OHVV DJJUHVVLYH NQXUOLQJ WKH URXJK JULS RQ WKH EDU WKHVH EDUV DUH HDVLHU RQ WKH KDQGV DQG SHUIHFW IRU WKRVH ORRNLQJ WR EUXVK XS WHFKQLTXH EHIRUH PRYLQJ RQ WR KHDYLHU ZHLJKWV 2I FRXUVH WKH\ FDQ EH ORDGHG XS ZLWK VWDQGDUG 2O\PSLF ZHLJKW GLVFV ZKHQ LWèV WLPH WR UHDOO\ SXVK WKH OLPLWV eleiko.com

38 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

3 CENTR APP %UDLQFKLOG RI 7KRU KLPVHOI DFWRU DQG EXII GXGH &KULV +HPVZRUWK

&HQWU DLPV WR EULQJ WRJHWKHU VRPHbRI KLV IDYRXUHG WUDLQHUV GLHWLFLDQV DQG PLQGIXOQHVV WHDFKHUV WR FUHDWH DQ DSS EDVHG HQYLURQPHQW WKDW SURPRWHV KHDOWK\ OLYLQJ /LYH FODVVHV JXLGHG PHGLWDWLRQ DQG GLHWLFLDQ DSSURYHG UHFLSHV DUH DOO JHDUHG XS WR JHW \RXbORRNLQJ OLNH WKH *RG RI 7KXQGHUð RU DW OHDVW ZLWKLQ D KDPPHUèV WKURZ RI WKHUH centr.com

4 BOWFLEX XTREME 2 SE HOME GYM $V YHUVDWLOH DV D SXOOH\ DQG ZHLJKWV V\VWHP LQ WKH J\P WKH ;WUHPH 6( PRGHO IURP %RZćH[ XVHV %RZćH[ 3RZHU 5RG WHFKQRORJ\ WR SURYLGH WKH UHVLVWDQFH ZKLFK LV MXVW DV EHQHĆFLDO IRU WUDLQLQJ EXW ZHLJKV IDU OHVV DQG GRHVQèW FRQVXPH DV PXFK ćRRU VSDFH :LWK PXOWLSOH FDEOH SXOOH\ SRVLWLRQV \RX FDQ KLW WKH FKHVW EDFN DQG ORZHU ERG\ LQ RQH KDQG\ DQG FRPSDFW PDFKLQH ĆWQHVV VXSHUVWRUH FRP W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Build muscle 5 MYPROTEIN FAT GRIPZ Simple, affordable and easy to use, these rubbery additions to your dumbbell or barbell workout aim to improve grip strength and build up the important muscles in the forearms. Simple manoeuvres like a bench press or barbell curl VXGGHQO\ EHFRPH PRUH GLIÄ&#x2020;FXOW as extra emphasis is placed on the biceps and forearm muscles. Great for achieving that enviable Schwarzenegger-esque â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pumpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; faster. myprotein.com

5

6 TRX HOME 2

7 THERAGUN PRO

Did you know you can build muscle just by hanging around?

Well, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a bit of work involved than just that, as the TRX Home 2 suspension training system is designed WR KDUQHVV WKHbSRZHU RI \RXU own bodyweight to add tough resistance to all the major PXVFOHVbLQ \RXU ERG\ DQG SOHQW\ of minor ones, too). Anchor this on a door frame and push, pull, plank, hinge and rotate your way to a rippling physique. trxtraining.com

One of the biggest stumbling blocks in the quest for serious gains is recovery, with sore or painful muscles inhibiting workouts later in the week. The Theragun PRO uses percussive therapy to gently pummel the ouch out of sore muscles, while its patented powerful motor delivers up to 30kg of force to improve circulation and release tension in weary glutes, VKRXOGHUV DQG PXFKbPRUH <RXU body will thank for you getting it.

WKHUDJXQ FRP

8 OPTI MULTI PULL UP BAR ARGOS Sometimes bodyweight is the RQO\bPDVV \RX QHHG WR EXLOG serious muscle and mastering WKH SXOO XS LV D VXUHÄ&#x2020;UH ZD\ WR increase the size and strength of your shoulders, abs, biceps and triceps. This affordable Opti number easily hooks onto most doorframes and offers close grip handles to place more emphasis on the biceps. The perfect platform for summertime gun show preparation.

DUJRV FR XN

7

8

6

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 39

Nail your fitness goals in 202 21

SMASH YOUR RUN TIMES Stay ahead of the crowd, quite literally

2

4

3

1 NURVV RUN 7DNH WKH JXHVVZRUN RXW RI SHUIHFWLQJ UXQQLQJ IRUP ZLWK WKHVH VPDUW UXQQLQJ LQVROHV ZKLFK IHDWXUH SUHFLVLRQ VHQVRUV WKDW DUH GLVFUHHWO\ HPEHGGHG LQWR WKH LQVROH 7KH\ FRQVWDQWO\ IHHG GDWD WR D VPDUWSKRQH DSS LQ RUGHU WR DQDO\VH UXQQLQJ KHDOWK DQG RIIHU UHDO WLPH PHWULFV 7KH DSS WKHQ RIIHUV WLSV RQ KRZ WR LPSURYH UXQQLQJ VWULGH ZLWK KDSWLF IHHGEDFN VHQW WR FRPSDWLEOH VPDUW ZDWFKHV LQ RUGHU WR YLEUDWH \RXU UXQQLQJ IRUP LQWR VKDSH QXUYY FRP

2 STRYD POWER METER :K\ VKRXOG F\FOLVWV EH WKH RQO\ RQHV WR DFFXUDWHO\ WUDFN SRZHU RXWSXW" 7KH XSGDWHG 6WU\G 3RZHU 0HWHU QRZ WDNHV LQWR DFFRXQW ZLQG VSHHG WHPSHUDWXUH DQG KXPLGLW\ VR LW RIIHUV DFFXUDWH UHDG RXWV 6LPSO\ KRRN LW RQWR WKH ODFHV RI \RXU IDYRXUHG UXQQLQJ VKRH OLQN LW XS WR WKH SURYLGHG DSS DQG JHW LQVWDQW IHHGEDFN RQ UXQQLQJ SRZHU DOORZLQJ \RX WR Ć[ HQHUJ\ OHDNV GXH WR SRRU UXQQLQJ IRUP RU EHWWHU SDFH D UXQ RYHU YDULHG WHUUDLQ DSH[ VSRUWV FRP

40 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

3 WAHOO TICKR FIT 7UDGLWLRQDO KHDUW UDWH VHQVRUV ZUDS DURXQG WKH FKHVW DQG FDQ SURYH XQFRPIRUWDEOH RYHU ORQJ GLVWDQFHV ZKLOH ZULVW EDVHG V\VWHPV WHQG WR EH D WDG XQUHOLDEOH 7KH 7,&.5 IURP :DKRR WDFNOHV ERWK RI WKHVH LVVXHV ZUDSSLQJ DURXQG WKH DUP IRU FRPIRUW DQG XVLQJ DGYDQFHG RSWLFDO WHFKQRORJ\ WR DFFXUDWHO\ WUDFN WKH KHDUW UDWH ,W LV HTXLSSHG ZLWK %OXHWRRWK DQG $17 WHFKQRORJ\ PHDQLQJ LW ZLOO KRRN XSbZLWK PRVW GHYLFHV IRU RQ WKH ć\b%30 LQIR ZDKRRĆWQHVV FRP

4 ASSAULT AIRRUNNER :LWK QR QHHG WR SOXJ LQ WR WKH PDLQV WKH $VVDXOW $LU5XQQHU IHHGV RII LWV XVHUèV HQHUJ\ DQG JLYHV EDFN WZLFH DV PXFK DV LW JHWV :LWK D XQLTXH FXUYHG UXQQLQJ VXUIDFH DQG JUDE KDQGOHV LW LV SUHGRPLQDQWO\ GHVLJQHG IRU +,,7 VHVVLRQV ZKHUH XVHUV FDQ FKDQJH VSHHG DW ZLOO PDNLQJ LW D JUHDW WUDLQLQJ SDUWQHU IRU WKRVH ZKR ZDQW WR JHW VWURQJHU DQG IDVWHU RYHU VKRUWHU GLVWDQFHV ,WèV IDLUO\ TXLHW FRPSDUHG WR RWKHU UXQQLQJ PDFKLQHV WRR ZROYHUVRQ ĆWQHVV FRP W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Smash your run times 5 BEATS POWERBEATS PRO P

6 GARMIN FORERUNNER 745

7 ZWIFT RUN POD

8 SAUCONY ENDORPHIN PRO

Previously only allowing cyclists to cruise around its digital Engineered in conjunction W an outer casing that has With Monster your upcoming landscapes, one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with a crew of Sauconyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elite PDUDWKRQ ZLWK WKLV WHUULÄ&#x2020;F been reinforced to handle sweat athletes including Olympian d tweaked for maximum water running watch. Going far beyond greatest pieces of virtual training and software recently opened its Jared Ward and Molly Seidel, UHVLVWDQFH WKH VQXJ Ä&#x2020;WWLQJ simply displaying split timings, doors to runners. Attach the the Endorphin Pro features a Powerbeats Pro make a great the Forerunner 745 can analyse P Zwift Pod to the laces of your FXUYHG FDUERQ Ä&#x2020;EUHbIRRWSODWH the effectiveness of a training training partner. Battery life is an trainers and jump into Zwiftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for powerful running transitions. pressive nine hours, while both routine, display recovery time imp ear buds have controls for volume post-exercise, predict race times virtual world when putting in the Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also plenty of lightweight EDVHG RQ Ä&#x2020;WQHVV OHYHOV DQG LW OLQNV miles on the treadmill. It cleverly cushioning, which keeps overall and track skipping. Of course, analyses stride and speed, ZHLJKW GRZQbWR MXVW J SHU up with accessories to measure they pack the patented Beats IHHGLQJbWKLV LQIR EDFN WR D OLWWOH shoe. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to smash bass notes too, ensuring your running metrics. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like having a b n is accompanied by a suitably running coach on your wrist â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one avatar on-screen and displaying UXQ WLPHV bWKHVH DUH WKH VKRHV WR run your output in real-time.

VWLFNbRQ \RXU IHHW thumping soundtrack. that weighs just 47g. ]ZLIW FRP VDXFRQ\ FRP beatsbydre.com garmin.com

6 5

8 7

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 41

Nail your fitness goals in 2021

IMPROVE YOUR CARDIO FITNESS Kick-start your journey to a healthier heart

2

1

3

4

1 APEX 3DUWQHULQJ ZLWK SRSXODU /RQGRQ VSLQ VWXGLR %RRP &\FOH $SH[ LV RQH RI WKH ODWHVW DGGLWLRQV WR WKH DW KRPH ELNH ZRUNRXW VFHQH ` EX\V D VOHHN DQG FDSDEOH ELNH ZKLOH WKH PRQWKO\ VXEVFULSWLRQ JDLQV DFFHVV WR KXQGUHGV RI OLYH DQG RQ GHPDQG FODVVHV 7KH ELNH V\QFV WR D VPDUWSKRQH RU WDEOHW YLD %OXHWRRWK DQG VHQGV OLYH ZRUNRXW GDWD WR DQ LQ ZRUNRXW OHDGHUERDUG $OO ULGHV DUH ORJJHG VR LWèV HDV\ WR WUDFN SURJUHVV DQG KLW WKRVH ĆWQHVV JRDOV apexrides.com

2 SCHWINN AIRDYNE A8 6RPHWLPHV UHIHUUHG WR DV çWKH 'HYLOèV 7ULF\FOHè LQ ĆWQHVV FLUFOHV WKH KXPEOLQJ $LU %LNH SDFNV HQRXJK DLU JHQHUDWHG UHVLVWDQFH WR EULQJ HYHQ WKH ĆWWHVW IRON LQ WKH ZRUOG WR WKHLU NQHHV $ EUXWDO FRPELQDWLRQ RI XSSHU DQG ORZHU ERG\ ZRUN PHDQV LW LV SRVVLEOH WR WDNH D KHDUW UDWH IURP UHVWLQJ WR PD[ WKUHVKROG LQ VHFRQGV PDNLQJ LW D EULOOLDQWO\ EUXWDO +,,7 PDFKLQH %HWWHU VWLOO LW GRHVQèW UHTXLUH SRZHU DQG VHUYHV DV D EULOOLDQW ORZ LPSDFW ZD\ RI WRQLQJ PXVFOH WRR ĆWQHVV VXSHUVWRUH FRP

42 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

3 WATER RROWER A1

4 CONCEPT2 SKIERG

6OHHN VW\OLVK DQG DUJXDEO\ WKH FORVHVW VHQVDWLRQ WR UHDO URZLQJ \RX FDQ JHW ZLWKRXW YHQWXULQJ RXWGRRUV WKH :DWHU5RZHU $ ZRXOG PDNH D VROLG DGGLWLRQ WR DQ\ OLYLQJ URRP HYHQ LI LW QHYHU JHWV XVHG %XW WKDW ZRXOG EH VLOO\ EHFDXVH WKLV VROLG $VK PDFKLQH IHDWXUHV :DWHU)O\ZKHHO WHFKQRORJ\ ZKLFK IHHOV DQG VRXQGVbOLNH \RXèUH VNLPPLQJ DORQJbWKH RSHQ ZDWHU /RZ LPSDFW bKLJK LQWHQVLW\ ZRUNRXWV GRQèW JHW PXFK PRUH DHVWKHWLFDOO\ SOHDVLQJ WKDQ WKLV waterrower.com

7KH FKDQFHV DUH \RXèYH QHYHU EHHQ 1RUGLF VNLLQJ VR WUXVW XV ZKHQ ZH VD\ LW LV RQH RI WKH PRVW GHPDQGLQJ ZRUNRXWV D KXPDQ FDQ HQGXUH :RUNLQJ WKH OHJV DUPV DQG FRUH LQ XQLVRQ WKH &RQFHSW 6NL(UJ PLPLFV WKH PRYHPHQWV UHTXLUHG WR WUDYHUVH WRXJK VQRZ ODGHQ WHUUDLQ DQG LV JXDUDQWHHG WR VHW SXOVHV VRDULQJ ,W EXLOGV PXVFOH DQG LPSURYHV DHURELF ĆWQHVV ZLWK WKH VDPH WUXVWHG ć\ZKHHO UHVLVWDQFH DQG HOHFWURQLF PRQLWRULQJ V\VWHPV IRXQG RQ &RQFHSW URZLQJ PDFKLQHV FRQFHSW FRP W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Improve your cardio fitness

5 MYZONE MZ-3 BELT

6 MEGLIO SKIPPING ROPE PRO

7 APPLE WATCH SERIES 6

8 GARMIN VIVOACTIVE 4S

*DPLĆFDWLRQ DQG VRFLDO Skipping isn’t just for kids in The latest Apple Watch is geared Where do we start with this interaction: two buzzwords in the the playground, as the potent towards the active, as it goes WKRURXJK ĆWQHVV WUDFNLQJ ĆWQHVV JDPH ULJKW QRZ WKDW KDYH mixture of fast feet and excellent beyond basic heart rate monitoring device? Body energy levels, proven to motivate, challenge coordination make it one of the and now measures the oxygen blood oxygen saturation, stress DQG LPSURYH RYHUDOO ĆWQHVV OHYHOV easiest ways to raise the heart rate saturation of the user’s blood. A tracking, hydration tracking and, MyZone, essentially a smart and torch calories. Lightweight greater SpO2 level indicates that of course, wrist-based heart-rate heart-rate tracker and an app, sees aluminium handles and stainless more oxygenated blood is being PRQLWRULQJbDOO FRPH FUDPPHG users earn points for their effort. steel ball bearings in this bad boy delivered throughout the body, into this small but stylish device.

Exercise in a higher heart-rate equate to a silky smooth rotation. which is a good thing. Throw in Better still, it features workout zone and you earn more points.

Plus, there’s 9ft of easily adjustable accurate step counting, an always- animations on the wrist, so there’s This, in turn, sees you climb a rope to play with here, so it’s on altimeter and improved sleep now no excuse to not get your leaderboard made up of anyone in suitable for diminutive beginners tracking and you have a great heart rate spiking with some DQG ćHHW IRRWHG JLDQWV DOLNH platform for measuring health. perfectly executed squats. your social network or gym group. mymeglio.com apple.com garmin.com myzone.org

5

7

8

6

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 43

Awesome Android phones for everybody

Awesome Android phones for everybody Phone a friend, then snap a shot, play a game or make an epic video.

More than just a way to stay connected, smartphones are a lifestyle choice. Whether for kids or creatives, these are top Android picks Words: Michelle Rae Uy Photography: Phil Barker

44 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra

PERFECT FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra Beyond its laptop-level specs, the Galaxy S20 Ultra astounds with its photography-focused features, starting with that impressive five-camera setup. Shutterbugs can zoom up to 100x, record 8K videos, take super-sharp selfies and crop to their heart’s desire with that whopping 108MP resolution. This is practically the entire contents of a photographer’s camera bag in one svelte package. `86,999, samsung.com

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 45

Awesome Android phones for everybody

CRACKING PIECE OF KIT FOR KIDS

Nokia 5.3 Kids these days wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t shy away from high-tech gadgets, but they also need them in robust and preferably cheap packages. Enter the Nokia 5.3, whose quad camera, smart AI photo-editing tools, massive screen and AI-assisted adaptive battery are just the ticket for tech-savvy minors. Plus, that durable scratch-resistant back and bargain-basement price will let parents breathe easier. `12,499, nokia.com

46 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra

CREAM OF THE CROP FOR CREATIVES

Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra Its included S Pen strengthens the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra’s bid for the ultimate mobile tool for creatives. It offers access to shortcuts for a seamless creative workflow while allowing you to draw your designs the moment inspiration strikes. Of course, that 6.9-inch 120Hz screen, impressive camera set and all-day battery life are a boon for content creators and designers as well. `1,04,000, samsung.com

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 47

Awesome Android phones for everybody

GREATEST GADGET FOR GAMERS

Xiaomi Black Shark 3 The Black Shark 3 certainly talks the talk, touting itself as a mobile gamerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playground. But this smartphone walks the walk as well, with staggering specs, a breathtaking 6.67-inch 90Hz 2K display and a nifty Shark Space app all designed to make titles like Call of Duty Mobile and Fortnite look and play as smooth as butter. `TBA, blackshark.com

48 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

OnePlus Nord

CHEAPER CHOICE FOR SAVERS

OnePlus Nord One doesn’t have to break the bank for a great smartphone. Sitting comfortably in the mid-range arena is the OnePlus Nord, offering a terrific feature set, lots of power and a stunning screen in a premium package sans the hefty price of entry. It is, as OnePlus puts it, all you could ever ask for in a phone, especially if you’re unwilling to splurge. `27,999, oneplus.in

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 49

Multi-room Music. The Hi-Res Way.

HI-RES AUDIO

APP CONTROL

CUSTOM INSTALL

DOLBY SURROUND

VOICE CONTROL

MQA

AIRPLAY 2

20+ STREAMING SERVICES

Bringing Greater Joy to your Movie and Music Experience Mumbai | Bangalore | Chennai | Delhi | Hyderabad | Vadodara

www.keihifi.comƋ Email: response@keihifi.comƋ Toll Free: 1-800-22-4244

TESTED

52

APPLE IPHONE 12

Get the lowdown on the latest gadgets before you buy

56

APPLE ZENBOOK FLIP S 58

APPLE IPAD AIR 60

OCULUS QUEST 2 62

SONY ZV-1 64

REALME WATCH S 66

CREATIVE STAGE V2 67

OPTOMA P2 71

GAMES

HOW WE TEST In T3, we feature only the ďŹ nest gadgets out there, and we believe that you â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our loyal reader â&#x20AC;&#x201C; deserve only the best tech in your life.

We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want you to waste time, and money, on inferior products, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly why our Tested section exists.

In here youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ďŹ nd only the latest and hottest tech. Each product has been handpicked and tested by T3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experts.

We only choose people with special knowledge for each test, so you know youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to get an outcome based on many years of experience in their respective ďŹ eld.

As well as our traditional ďŹ ve-star rating system (right), we also give out awards to particularly exceptional gadgets, using the line-up below - so when you spot one of these, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll know youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re onto a good thing.

THE SCORES EXPLAINED Forget it Below average Good for the price Very good all round An exceptional, best-in-class product

OUR AWARDS Only the best products ĂĽ WKRVH WKDW VFRUH Ä&#x2020;YH PLATINUM stars â&#x20AC;&#x201C; receive our AWARD 3ODWLQXP $ZDUG

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

This is given to winners BEST ON of our group tests, so you can see which is TEST the best at a glance

This accolade, and BEST FOR others like it, show you BATTERY which gear is best for LIFE VSHFLÄ&#x2020;F IHDWXUHV

THE DESIGN AWARD

For kit with exceptional industrial design and UHÄ&#x2020;QHPHQW LQ DGGLWLRQ to being a great buy

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 51

Tested

Processor A14 Bionic chip Screen 6.1‑inch 2532x1170 OLED Memory 8GB Storage 64GB/128GB/256GB Battery Up to 17 hours video playback Cameras 12MP wide, 12MP ultra wide rear; 12MP front OS iOS 14 Dimensions 71.5x146.7x7.4mm Weight 162g

From `69,900 apple.com

ne of four new iPhones released towards the end of 2020, the iPhone 12 will probably be the most popular model, coming in the middle of the flagship phone price range, and offering a solid range of improvements compared to the iPhone 11. However, it has also had a price rise, which tempers the feeling of value.

All of Apple’s new phones this year feature a new design, which most closely resemble the design of the new iPad Air and latest iPad Pros, and which many have compared to the iPhone 5-era devices, with flat sides, and severe corners.

The iPhone 12 is significantly smaller than the iPhone 11, despite having the same-size screen.

Removing the curves of the case and thinning the bezel around the screen’s edge means this phone is effectively the size of the 5.8-inch iPhone 11 Pro – and is identical in size to the iPhone 12 Pro, in fact. And the flat sides and smaller borders mean the screen is much easier to reach across with one hand.

O

CUTTING EDGE

Apple iPhone 12

Mostly excellent, the iPhone 12 gets a host of new features in an improved design… but at a higher price 52 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Apple iPhone 12 LOOKING SHARP Taking a lead from the design language of the iPhone 5, the iPhone 12 has flat edges and tiny bezels that make it perhaps the best looking iPhone so far.

QUICK AS A FLASH Not only does the iPhone 12 come with 5G, it also contains the fastest processor in any phone on the market: Apple’s A14 Bionic chip. As a result, apps and sites load lightning fast.

The iPhone 12’s aluminium side frame and glass back come in five colours: black, white, red, green and blue. Unlike, say, the iPad Air where the colours tend to stick with all being quite pastel, here they run an interesting range. The new design is superior in every way – aesthetically, ergonomically and functionally. It’s maybe the best-looking iPhone so far.

In glowing colours Aside from the design, the screen is the biggest upgrade from iPhone 11 to iPhone 12, and again it’s a knockout.

Instead of the LCD panel in its predecessor, the iPhone 12 has a beautiful OLED display that’s also higher resolution, so you get a boost in a whole range of areas. In fact, it’s nearly identical to the screen in the iPhone 12 Pro, and feels it.

The screen is now 1170x2532, making it 460 pixels per inch – it’s impossible to see individual pixels without glueing it to the end of your nose. It supports the P3 wide colour gamut, so everything is as vibrant and realistic as possible.

It’s also an HDR screen, which is W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

primarily of use when watching Dolby Vision HDR movies from services like Netflix, Disney+ and iTunes. When an HDR video demands it, the screen can peak its brightness as high as 1,200 nits, which is extremely impressive. Very few TVs can achieve this, and that includes flagship OLED TVs. Combined with the precision of OLED’s self-emissive pixels, there’s genuinely stunning contrast and realism here.

For all of our waxing on about the new screen, there is one feature missing compared to other phones, though: a 90Hz or 120Hz screen. The iPhone’s screen shows a new image 60 times per second (aka 60Hz), which has been the norm for phones and computers for a very long time.

However, recently, Android phones in particular have started including screens that offer 90Hz, or 120Hz. The advantage of these is that it makes motion look smoother and clearer – there’s not much of a practical benefit on phones outside of gaming, but it’s absolutely nicer.

Once you try a high-refresh screen,

It’s arguably the best-looking iPhone so far, and that’s a hotly contested category

going back feels a bit low-rent.

It’s not just Android flagships that have these screens – everything from the Pixel 5 (which is cheaper than the iPhone 12), to the OnePlus 8 Pro (which is a similar price to the iPhone) have them – so at this point, it’s noticeable that the iPhone 12 is missing out.

Hot shot When it comes to camera specs, there isn’t a huge amount of difference from the iPhone 11: the new features here are small tweaks, not leaps forward.

There are two rear cameras: one ultra-wide lens, and one wide-angle (which is the ‘normal’ lens type on phones), both with 12MP sensors. The ultra-wide lens is roughly a 0.5x zoom compared to the wide. The wide lens has a larger aperture this year, which is great for low-light and Night mode shots especially, but also helps with the crispness and colour vibrancy of images across the board.

The other differences are that the ultra-wide lens now has lens correction applied automatically so JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 53

T t d Tested

TWO FEW AND FAR BETWEEN The camera system on offer is fantastic, offering superb detail, great colour balance and even Dolby Vision video. However, there are only two lenses.

A SCREEN FEAT While still not 90Hz or 120Hz, the screen is still breathtaking. This sumptuous OLED can go as bright as 1,200 nits, even putting many TVs to shame.

that its shots feature less distortion, and that Night mode is now possible on the ultra-wide lens and (more importantly) the front-facing camera.

The result of all this is a small but noticeable improvement over the iPhone 11, and one of the best duallens camera systems on the market.

Image detail is superb, colour vibrancy is excellent while still being natural, and exposure is handled deftly. The iPhone 12 just offers that extra step of conviction when it comes to colour and contrast – its photos aren’t so

Note that the iPhone 12 has ‘just’ a dual-lens system, not a tri-lens one…

much better they’re transformative, but the improvement is noticeable in medium or lower light, particularly, or contrasty scenes.

Our only issue with the camera are that it’s ‘just’ a dual-lens system at a flagship-type price. The iPhone 12 Pro has a third lens (a telephoto, for portraits), and given where the iPhone 12 fits into the overall market for price, it feels like this should have one as well. It would make this phone capable of even better Portrait mode shots of anything (its Portrait mode only works

on people and pets).

There is one more new feature to talk about. The iPhone 12 (and 12 Pro) are the first cameras of any kind to ‘shoot’ in Dolby Vision – a form of HDR that adjusts the dynamic range on a scene-by-scene basis. Quite simply, this technology means videos recorded on iPhone can have a depth and realism few cameras can match.

They look fantastic... on an iPhone or compatible TV. But some social media platforms have mangled the conversion process, meaning for most

PRO ADD-ONS

BELKIN MAGSAFE 3-IN-1 WIRELESS CHARGER This offers the 15W charging you need to juice your iPhone 12 quickly while its MagSafe connection will display it beautifully. And it will handle your Watch and AirPods too! belkin.com 54 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

APPLE SILICONE CASE WITH MAGSAFE

AIRPODS PRO

By leaving out the bog-standard EarPods included with previous iPhones, Apple has While not the fanciest on the market, Apple’s silicone cases guarantee you can use MagSafe essentially made decent wireless headphones a must-buy. And the AirPods Pro are the best accessories. And they come in colours that buds you can buy, with superb sound and ANC. complement your new many-hued phone. apple.com apple.com W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Apple iPhone 12

RIOT OF COLOUR The iPhone 12 comes in many new colours, including a vibrant red, a pale and ice cream-y green and a blue as deep and luxurious as an influencer’s velvet sofa.

people, it’s probably a bit too cutting edge to be a real selling point.

Full speed ahead If anything is the headline feature of iPhone 12, it’s 5G support. It’s Apple’s first phone with 5G, and it comes at a good time, when 5G is arriving in a lot of cities.

But Apple has introduced 5G with an interesting default option: the iPhone will monitor how intensive your internet needs are when you begin a task, and will use 4G for simpler stuff or open the 5G floodgates for anything big. The idea is to help avoid 5G having a major battery impact.

Speaking of battery, we usually hope for year-on-year improvements to iPhone battery life but, compared to the iPhone 11, you’re not really getting one here. The iPhone 12 is perfectly solid for battery life but not excellent. With light use you can make it through two days – with typical lockdown use, expect to recharge it every night. If you use 5G regularly, that will also bring things down a little. The gist is: the battery W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

life is fine. It’s just not an advance, and it’s pretty average compared to similarly priced phones.

5G isn’t the only speed upgrade here. The new Apple A14 processor that powers it is around 20% faster than the A13 chip in the iPhone 11, and around 40% faster than the A12 in the iPhone XS and iPhone XR. The main point of the advances in the A14 chip aren’t so much the speed, because opening apps and moving around iOS are already really slick – there are lots of other things the chip does that are important.

It’s lower power than ever, balancing out some of 5G’s drain; it can do more with photos, enabling a bunch of the new camera features we mentioned; and it’s comfortably future proofed to make sure the iPhone 12 can run whatever upgrades Apple has planned for years. That it’s also more powerful than most laptops (and every other phone on the planet) is just bragging rights.

Ultimately, the iPhone 12 is the iPhone most people should get in 2020 – it gives you a stunning new

There are some superb new features, but battery power is about the same

design, a fantastic new screen compared to the iPhone 11, excellent cameras with a few new tricks, plus 5G and the world’s fastest phone processor for future-proofing.

It’s slick, it’s beautiful, and everything works so damn well. But the price rise compared to the iPhone 11 means it’s wandered back into flagship price territory, really, rather than the upper-mid-tier it’s aimed at – and it doesn’t offer the triple-lens camera system we’d expect at that level or the extra storage.

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Fab HDR screen; quality cameras; 5G; powerful innards; new design.

WE’D IMPROVE iPhone 11 cheaper; just two lenses; okay battery; 60Hz screen.

THE LAST WORD It’s ideal for most people but its high-quality features come at a higher price.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 55

Tested

OLED-TASTIC

Asus ZenBook Flip S (UX371) Asus’ new laptop comes with a 4K OLED screen, latest Intel processor `1,49,990, asus.com/in WORDS KUNAL GANGAR

sus is probably one of the few companies that have the widest laptop range catering to a different set of customers, be it the use and the price. The ZenBook Flip S (UX371) is the crème de la crème of Asus’ portfolio that carries an expensive price tag but comes with a 4K display, latest Intel processor in a compact form factor. But are these features worthy enough to sway the consumer? Let’s find out.

For a laptop this premium, we feel Asus could have given the ZenBook Flip S (UX371), a thorough makeover.

Don’t get us wrong. The ZenBook Flip S is still a good and luxurious looking laptop, but the overall design feels like another Asus laptop in its portfolio. It has an asymmetric-circle pattern at the back with red copper diamond-cut highlights that complement the Jade Black finish. The ZenBook Flip S scores on the portability front

A

56 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

with its 13.2mm thickness and weighing just around 1.2kg. The notebook also features a 360° ErgoLift Hinge that elevates the laptop slightly for a better angle to type and even create ventilation at the bottom for better airflow. On the connectivity side, it comes a full-size USB port, two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports and a standardsized HDMI port. It lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack or an Ethernet port but Asus is gracious enough to bundle them along with a stylus pen that supports 4,096 levels of pressure and has a battery life of up to 12 months and a laptop sleeve.

The ZenBook Flip S is a convertible, which means you can use it regularly as a laptop or as a tablet. The touch W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Tested Asus ZenBook Flip S

response is smooth along with fast orientation, but it’s the screen quality that improves the overall user experience. It sports a 13.3-inch OLED display that supports 4K (3840x2160) resolution, which seems like an overkill for a 13-incher, but we are not complaining.

OLED’s vibrant colours are visually appealing, but it’s at the expense of true colour production but the screen here is Pantone validated for its colour accuracy and offers 100% DCI-P3 colour coverage. The display also supports HDR with a peak brightness of 500 nits, making it good enough for content consumption from various video streaming services.

Intel’s latest 11th Gen Core i7 processors coupled with the new Iris Xe graphics promised a performance bump and it shows on the ZenBook Flip S. Along with 16GB RAM and 1TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD, the laptop runs everyday apps and process-intensive apps like Photoshop without breaking a sweat. However, the biggest improvement is on the gaming front. The notebook can play certain games like Counter-Strike at up to 60fps. Understandably, it won’t play like a notebook or a desktop with a dedicated GPU, but it’s a good thing to see a slim 2-in-1 laptop capable of playing games after tweaking some settings.

It runs Windows 10 Home and comes with some wanted and unwanted software. The MS Office Home and Student 2019 edition is pre-installed, which is nice to have, but Mcafee security’s constant pop-ups are a big turnoff. Asus also pre-loads MyAsus software that makes connecting a smartphone easy and convenient.

The laptop also comes with AI noise cancellation tech that improves the call audio quality with the help of Harman Kardon speakers that deliver clean and crisp audio, but it is not loud. In terms of wireless connectivity, there’s Wi-Fi 6 with Wi-Fi Stabilizer and Wi-Fi SmartConnect that blocks wireless interferences W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

and connects to the best available Wi-Fi network, but our experience was a mixed bag. More often than not, it would drop the Wi-Fi connection in a weak spot compared to other notebooks that stay connected.

The keyboard is classic Asus that gives a good typing experience with spaced out keys and good key travel, but the extra column of function keys takes some adjusting to the different keyboard layout. Not a deal-breaker, but still. It’s impossible to fit a number pad in such a compact form factor, but Asus’ NumberPad 2.0 integrates the numeric keypad with the trackpad. It works as intended and even has a handy touch-sensitive shortcut to activate/deactivate Numpad and calculator app.

A slim chassis, 4K display should seriously hamper the notebook’s battery life, right? Well, the ZenBook Flip S easily lasts over 8 hours if you are using it for internet surfing and editing office documents.

The ZenBook Flip S is an expensive laptop, but there are a lot of things going for the notebook. For instance, the compact form factor, stellar battery life and decent performance.

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Performance, battery life WE’D IMPROVE Keyboard, audio volume THE LAST WORD ZenBook Flip S has a great screen and delivers stable performance with excellent battery life.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 57

Tested

Processor A14 Bionic chip Screen 10.9-inch, 2360x1640 LED Storage 64GB/256GB Battery Up to 10 hours Cameras 12MP rear; 7MP front OS iPadOS 14 Dimensions 247.6x178.5x6.1mm Weight 458g / 460g

AIR TO THE THRONE

Apple iPad Air

The 4th-gen Air is an iPad Pro without the more niche features, giving it a more premium price From `54,900 apple.com/in pple’s ‘Air’ products tend to be the ones targeted at most of its buyers, giving you high-end features but with a few corners cut from its ‘Pro’ ranges to keep the price down. Given that the iPad Air 2020 has many of the Pro’s useful features, it takes that middle ground comfortably – albeit with a price increase of roughly 20%.

The new iPad Air is the first non-Pro iPad to get Apple’s new tablet design, with rounded corners, squared edges, and a futuristic feel overall. Even the iPhone 12 is now following the same philosophy.

The back is a big flat piece of aluminium, with the exception of the camera bump. It comes in five colours, including classic silver and dark grey, now with rose gold, green and blue options, which we love.

The screen has a resolution of 2360x1640, which is 264 pixels per inch.

This is easily sharp enough for the average distance you’ll hold a tablet from you in our experience.

A

58 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Apple iPad Air

It’s an LCD screen, rather than an OLED, which typically offer better contrast. But the iPad Air is still capable of fairly solid contrast, and its 500 nits of brightness is quite visible in any light condition.

The screen is 60Hz, rather than up to 120Hz as on the iPad Pro. The latter would not only make everything look smoother when animated, but also make the Apple Pencil as responsive as possible, as you’d see the results of your drawings quicker. But for casual drawing or note-taking, the responsiveness here is absolutely fine.

When you have the iPad Air in landscape, speakers at each end give you stereo, with impressive control over the width of movies’ sound especially. Sounds move around the screen, or blast right out past your ears depending on the action. The actual sound balance is merely solid – it can’t offer much in the way of bass – but the precision is strong, so you can hear with clarity what’s going on. And it can go really damn loud.

Quick draw The iPad Air was the first product announced with Apple’s new and most powerful processor, the A14

Bionic. And benchmarks show just how capable it is. The Geekbench 5 single-core score we measured is 40% higher than the 2020 iPad Pro’s score. Put simply, this is a small, thin beast when it comes to performance.

In practice, most users won’t even hit the limits of what the iPad Air can do. We found everything we wanted to do was handled incredibly quickly and smoothly. Even things like editing images with myriad layers or multiple tracks of 4K video seem to cause no appreciable slowdown.

Support for the Apple Pencil 2 makes using iPadOS 14’s new stylus-friendly features more tempting, too. Apple has made it possible now to handwrite in any text field, with the results understood by the system. You can also make lengthy handwritten notes and drawings in note-taking apps, and manipulate what you’ve written in various ways, such as copying and pasting sections into an email or document app as typed text.

The iPad Air has a single front camera, and a single rear camera, and neither is great, frankly. There is

You can choose classic colours for the aluminium back, but there are three new fun yet classy ones too

VERDICT

THE ALTERNATIVES APPLE iPAD PRO

SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB S7

While it rocks a slightly older CPU, the iPad Pro offers a brighter, bolder 120Hz screen, four speakers for stronger stereo and an improved dual-lens camera, so it’s no slouch. From `71,900, apple.com

Want a silky smooth 120Hz OLED screen? The Tab S7 delivers – and comes with an S Pen so you can really take advantage of its impressive capabilities.

From `55,999, samsung.com

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

some fancy tech on the rear camera, such as 4K video recording at 60fps with Apple’s ‘cinematic video stabilisation’. However, the quality on either cam – whether shooting stills or video – is fairly washed out, lacking the punchy colours and contrast you get from iPhones. Detail is similarly subdued.

The iPad Air is an excellent tablet, with a beautiful design and ultraslick operating system, aided by bags of power. Following the price rise, it needed just a few extra boosts to feel worthy of five stars, like a screen that matches the iPad Pro or a rear camera that matches the iPhone SE. But if you think you won’t mind about the screen and camera (and, let’s be clear, it’s by no means a bad screen) then the iPad Air is a slam dunk.

WE’RE IMPRESSED Sleek design; detailed screen; so fast and slick; Apple Pencil 2 support; impressive spatial audio.

WE’D IMPROVE Mediocre cameras; no 120Hz or OLED screen; notable price jump.

THE LAST WORD The iPad Air offers a great screen, powerful processor, premium design and great Apple Pencil support. It’s a shame the price has risen, but it’s excellent and the tablet to beat.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 59

Tested

Processor Snapdragon XR2 Screen 72Hz (90Hz with update), 1832 x 1920 per eye Memory 6GB Storage 64GB / 256GB Battery 2-3 hours Tracking internal cameras Weight 503g

SIMPLY THE QUEST

Oculus Quest 2 Powerful, fun, versatile, and cheaper than its predecessor, this might be VR’s breakout hit 60 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

oculus.com here’s no doubt that standalone headsets were always the future of VR – it was just a question of the components and the technology reaching a good enough standard to work without a PC. So has the Oculus Quest 2 – the sequel to 2019’s Oculus Quest – got what it takes to bring virtual reality to the mainstream?

The Oculus Quest 2 is a well-built, solid-feeling piece of gadgetry, though with plenty of plastic it

T

doesn’t quite feel luxury level – so just about what you would expect for the asking price, then. At 503 grams it’s nice and lightweight: you’ll know it’s there of course, but it won’t weigh your head down in the slightest.

With simple but strong elasticated straps, getting it strapped tightly and securely to your head isn’t difficult at all, and going from opening the box to stepping into VR only takes a few minutes. Clips inside the headset let you choose one of three options for the interpupillary distance (IPD) setting, and we were able to find a position where everything was sharp W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Tested Oculus Quest 2

and focused without too much trouble. There’s also a spacer you can put in if you wear glasses.

Marking out a playing space is actually quite fun and works really well – once the Quest 2 detects you’re near the edge of it, you’ll see boundary lines appear. Oculus recommends a playing space of around two square metres for games that require movement, though you can get by with a little less.

Power play Playing games and running apps on the Oculus Quest 2 is, by and large, a treat: graphics are sharp and bright, the integrated audio is impressive in its richness and range, and everything runs without a stutter.

The newly updated Touch controllers are comfortable and responsive, and there’s even hand tracking in an experimental form for controlling games and navigating around menus – it works pretty well already, but you can tell it isn’t quite finished yet.

As for the game and app selection, it’s both stronger than ever (there are

now hundreds of titles available) and still some way short of where Oculus would want it to be. There are some really good titles here, and more on the way, but nothing that would make you think you absolutely have to get a Quest 2 – games such as Vader: Immortal and Beat Saber are immersive and enjoyable, but they might not be enough to tempt you to buy one if you weren’t already.

In terms of tracking you through space (done entirely without external trackers), the headset does an admirable job: we found our movements were instantly and accurately represented inside the games that we played. Glitches and bugs were practically non-existent and working out how to control everything quickly becomes second nature. Getting into VR has never been easier or quite so much fun.

We’ve been very impressed with the Oculus Quest 2 during our time with it, and the company has even managed to get the price down from its predecessor, despite all of the improvements to the internals. We’re

THE ALTERNATIVES VALVE INDEX

HTC VIVE COSMOS

If you want premium VR R, go for the Index: it has an 144Hz screen, betterr FOV and better tracking g.

But it’s still wired, needss base stations and a PC and is over three times the price. store. steampowered.com

For those without cash to burn or a desire to hand over data, this is a fair compromise.

Still PC-tethered but beacon-free, it offers an erssatz Index experience forr less. vive.com

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

With the Quest 2, getting into VR KDVbQHYHU EHHQ easier – and it’s great fun, too

talking about Nintendo Switch levels of affordability, and that’s going to make this device appealing to a broader range of people than ever.

There are only a few negatives here: VR can still make some people (including us) feel queasy, the app and game selection still has plenty of room for improvement, and Facebook has made a Facebook account mandatory for using the Quest 2. That’s not something that’s going to endear it to users, but you may consider giving up even more data to the social network a worthwhile trade-off.

The headset is good enough and affordable enough to find its way into a lot more homes over the next few months, though we think another hardware revision and some really jaw-dropping games will be required before an Oculus device becomes a must-have for gamers.

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Lightweight and comfortable; crisp, vibrant graphics; easy to set up and use.

WE’D IMPROVE Needs more games and apps; few lens settings; Facebook account is mandatory.

THE LAST WORD The Oculus Quest T 2 provides a standalone experience that really impresses in terms of performance and price. It’s not quite a perfect VR headset, but it’s clearly one of the best ones yet.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 61

Tested

VLOGGER’S DELIGHT

Sony ZV-1 Just what the vlogger ordered! `67,990, sony.co.in WORDS SUJITH GOPINATH s vloggers and bloggers fast becoming major content creators, cameras are quickly turning into versatile video and still devices.

There are a few devices that stand out in the crowd, catering to the ever-growing demands of the vlogger and home content creator communities. The Sony ZV-1 is one such camera that is primarily aimed at vlogging.

The ZV-1 is a compact and lightweight device made specifically with vloggers in mind. The fully articulated LCD allows you to include yourself in the video while vlogging. It has a well-defined textured grip. The grille by the side of the accessory shoe encloses a directional three-capsule mic that is optimal for recording sound from the front of the camera. The top panel of the camera features, apart from the accessory shoe and speaker grille, the shutter release button/zoom lever unit, On/Off

A

62 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

button, Mode button, Record button, and a Bokeh button to instantly switch between low and high Depth-of-Field.

We received the ZV-1 along with the GP-VPT2BT Bluetooth wireless shooting grip and since all the product images showed the device mounted on this grip, we presumed that it is part of the standard package. It is also true that this grip-cum-tripod is what makes the ZV-1 truly a vlogger’s delight. Unfortunately, it is not part of the kit.

Without the GP-VPT2BT, this camera is as ergonomic as a regular compact camera, but this grip allows you to precisely position the camera on a table for your vlogging needs with its two rear legs extended to form a tabletop tripod. It also lets you hold and operate the camera with a single hand while you shoot outdoor handheld videos.

The grip incorporates a zoom rocker switch, Photo and Video buttons, Custom function Button and a Lock switch. There is also a switch to rotate the camera along with the mounting platform without dismounting it.

The 20.1-megapixel Sony ZV1 uses a 1.0-inch Type Exmor RS CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processing engine and the camera performed very well in our tests.

It produced 4K videos that were smooth and stabilised with SteadyShot image stabilisation. The built-in directional microphone proved to be great for vlogging needs. You can also attach your favourite external cold-shoe mounted microphone with this device.

Autofocus shifted quickly and tracking was perfect for most situations.

This is predominantly a camera designed for vlogging and hence video features take precedence over stills.

Nevertheless, the ZV-1 offers good still imaging W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Tested Sony ZV-1 capabilities as well. In case of still images, the camera produced slight, almost indistinguishable darkening of corners at f/1.8, which vanished by f/2.8. The lens did not produce any significant distortion.

The images have a native print size of 18.24 x 12.16 inches at 300 ppi. We checked the images on a calibrated Full HD monitor with 92ppi resolution. At 25 percent of screen size, images were noise-free up to ISO 6400.

Though mild noise was seen at ISO 12,800, it was perfectly usable. Seen at 50 percent, images were absolutely free of noise up to ISO 1600 and minute noise could be seen at ISO 3200 if you really strained your eyes.

We would consider this excellent noise control for a 1-inch sensor compact camera.

Out-of-the-box images were quite sharp. At the wide-angle end, the lens was sharpest from f/2 to f/4 with a sweet spot at f/2.8. All apertures could be used, barring f/11, which was quite unsharp due to diffraction.

From around 50mm, the sweet sport shifted to f/4 and the lens was sharp from f/4 to f/8. Images at f/11 and f/2.8 were slightly unsharp, yet usable. This remained so till the telephoto end.

Auto White Balance worked perfectly under Daylight but produced a prominent blue cast under shade.

However, this was quite easy to correct in postprocessing. The camera reproduced skin tones true to the original.

The only negative point we observed was the prominent flare and purple fringing from f/1.8 to 2.8 at the wide-angle end in images shot against strong backlighting.

The one-touch bokeh control and Product Showcase setting worked very well. We were, however, disappointed with the battery life of this device.

The Sony Z-V1 is certainly a vlogger’s delight, offering a compact and lightweight solution to all their vlogging needs. The camera is built for videos. However, it also offers great still photography capabilities. If you are the type of vlogger who needs a non-complicated camera with a fixed zoom lens and capable sound recording options that is optimised for one-hand operation, you should certainly have a look at this camera. It would be prudent to invest in an additional battery pack and a dedicated external charger (BC-TRX), which would set you back by an additional Rs. 6,000. Certainly a Best Buy.

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Performance WE’D IMPROVE Battery life THE LAST WORD The Sony Z-V1 is a vloggingfriendly camera that is easy-to-use with great video and still image quality.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 63

Tested Realme Watch S

FULL CIRCLE

Realme goes a full circle with the latest smartwatch ` 4,999, realme.com/in

f one smartphone accessory category that grew considerably in the last year, it is the wearable category. We saw companies launching many smartwatches and ďŹ tness bands and Realme too jumped on the bandwagon with the Realme Watch. And now they are following up with the Watch S and the Watch S Pro. This month, we look at the Realme Watch S. The Realme Watch S is an upgrade over the original, and it is apparent from the design and build. Realme has adopted a circular dial giving it a more conventional watch look and is complemented with an alloy aluminium case that gives the watch a sturdy and a premium feel. The 1.3-inch display is protected by Corningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gorilla Glass, while the complete watch boasts an IP68 certiďŹ cation that gives the watch the ability to withstand water and dust.

The side features two buttons with one acting as a menu/back button whereas the other button to quickly access different workout options. The 22mm silicone straps are soft and detachable, allowing to swap them with different coloured straps. Overall, the Realme Watch S is welldesigned, but we would have appreciated a smaller-sized dial option to cater to a wider market.

The smartwatch connects with a smartphone via Realmeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Link app, and yet again, Realme

I

64 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

has left iOS users out since the app is still not available for iOS devices. With a decent portfolio of IoT and wearable devices, we are surprised to see it not happening despite the website claiming â&#x20AC;&#x153;coming soonâ&#x20AC;?.

The 1.3-inch display (360x360 pixels) is sharp and responsive to touches, but the most important feature addition is the autobrightness support. The screen will adjust the screenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brightness (goes up to 600 nits) so that the text on the screen is legible in direct sunlight. Moving around the watch is similar to other smartwatches. A long press on the main screen reveals the synced watch faces; swiping down shows off notiďŹ cations; swiping up reveals the menu; and swiping right or left lets you see the ďŹ tness data, weather and heart rate, quick settings.

Smartwatch features-wise, the Realme Watch S lets you see notiďŹ cations, reject a call, control music player or camera and ďŹ nd the phone. Apart from that, the watch reminds to drink water or stand up at regular intervals.

The 16 sport modes cover prevalent workout options, and during our use, we found the tracking to be decent for a sub-5k smartwatch. It had a variance of about 5-8% compared to expensive trackers from Fitbit or Apple Watch. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 24-hour heart rate monitor but the lowest you can go is up to 5

mins. The watch can also measure blood oxygen, but it needs to be manually monitored, unlike heart rate. The sleep tracking tracks light, deep and REM sleep, but we found the sleep data to vary with Fitbit.

Battery life has been the bane for most smartwatches, but Realme Watch delivers a solid battery backup throughout. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rated to give up to 15 days and during our week of use, the watch still had over 60% battery left.

VERDICT WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE IMPRESSED Design, battery life WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;D IMPROVE Data tracking THE LAST WORD The Realme Watch S is yet another affordable smartwatch that offers a decent set of features, DFFHSWDEOH Ä&#x2020;WQHVV WUDFNLQJ DQG excellent battery life.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Now read your favourite magazine wherever you go...

Available on PC... Mac... Tablet... or any other handheld device!

Available on

Digital Platform Partners

Tested Creative Stage V2

SETTING THE STAGE

Creative Stage V2 New Creative soundbar brings thumping sound to the fore `9,999, creative.com

he first-gen Creative Stage was created primarily for undermonitor use, but the Singaporean company has expanded the use case with the second-gen Stage soundbar. The recently launched Stage V2 can not only be used with a PC but also works well as an audio accessory for the TV. But how does the Stage V2 stack in a sea of sub-10k soundbar options? Let’s find out.

The Stage V2 is not as small as the original model, but it feels like a compact soundbar that can be placed under the TV. The metal mesh grille takes over the front, whereas the rest of the soundbar is covered with glossy plastic. The right-hand side sports soft buttons to change audio modes, volume and Bluetooth whereas the back boasts brackets for a hassle-free wallmount setup and myriad of connectivity options that are intelligently separated in two different areas so as not to clutter with wires if multiple sources are connected.

Connectivity options include an optical port, subwoofer, USB Type-C, HDMI (ARC) and aux. Interestingly, there’s no USB Type-A port, which means you must use a

T

66 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

Type-C to Type-A adapter to play songs from a conventional USB flash drive.

Creative bundles an IR remote control that makes it easy to use the soundbar. The subwoofer, on the other hand, is a slim, tall and lightweight unit and comes with a 2m cable.

The Creative Stage V2 is equipped with two 2.25-inch drivers that deliver 20W each and a 40W 5.25-inch subwoofer.

Needless to say, the setup is tuned to favour bass, which you hear while listening to Radioactive from Imagine Dragons. However, the soundbar is accommodating to other frequencies as they can be tweaked with the handy bass and treble buttons on the remote control.

During our use and listening to songs from different genres, the soundbar produced crisp and clear sound at higher volumes with no distortion.

If that’s not all, the Stage V2 comes with two additional audio features - Surround and Clear Dialog. Both features can be toggled with their dedicated buttons on the remote and well. The Surround feature helps to deliver a wider soundstage when you are consuming content from Netflix or

Amazon Prime Video and Clear Dialog amps up the spoken audio for improved movie watching experience.

The Creative Stage V2 is not without its flaws, though. The Bluetooth 5.0 ensures a good range but can only playback using the SBC codec. Another gripe we have is with the two-character LED screen, which could have been larger.

Having said that, Creative Stage V2 is a feature-packed soundbar at ` 9,999 with good-quality playback and connectivity options.

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Performance WE’D IMPROVE LED display THE LAST WORD Creative Stage V2 delivers a good bang for the buck with its audio and feature-rich options.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Tested Optoma P2

PREMIUM PROJECTION

Optoma P2 Optoma returns with its high-end laser projector successor `4,99,999, optoma.com t was exactly a year ago when we got a chance to use the Optoma P1 and came back mighty impressed. Now right on schedule, Optoma has launched the aptly named Optoma P2 that promises improved picture quality.

Design-wise, there’s not much to differentiate the Optoma P2 with its predecessor. Except for the colour, which is white for the P2, there’s hardly any difference in the product design. The NuForce soundbar covered in soft mesh fabric is on the front, the glass-covered lens at the top and the host of ports at the back like two HDMIs (one of which supports ARC), USB, RJ45, S/PDIF and audio out.

There’s one more HDMI and USB Type-A port along with ventilated sides for heat dissipation and airflow.

The Optoma P2 is an ultra-short throw projector that enables a large 120-inch projection from a distance of just 14.5-inches. The projector automatically adjusts the keystone and focus, but if you need to fine-tune it, one can do it from the button on the remote control.

I

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Equipped with a DLP projection chip, it supports 3840x2160 native resolution along with a light brightness of up to 3000 ANSI lumens, which is good enough for 30,000 hours in eco mode. The projection quality is top-notch. The P2 supports over a billion colours with a 120% Rec. 709 gamut coverage and 6-segment colour wheel for realistic colour reproduction. It also has HDR10 for HDR content and PureMotion for reduced motion blur when you are watching fast-paced content.

The P2 is a smart projector and the fact that Optoma underplays this feature is a good thing because the smart experience is underwhelming. It runs on a forked Android version that does not have access to Google Play Store or its associate services. Instead, it comes with a thirdparty app store that has a limited number of apps. That said, wirelessly connecting via iOS or Android and casting to the projector is easy, provided you have fast and stable internet. The projector also supports Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

The NuForce 40W soundbar was the

highlight in last year’s projector and it’s no different in P2. The audio quality is excellent with crisp, room-filling audio and supports Dolby Digital 2.0. There’s a dedicated audio mode that allows the projector to stream music via your connected Bluetooth device.

All said and done, the Optoma P2 is a solid follow up to the P1. The smart features can be improved but considering its overall performance, the ultra-short throw projector delivers excellent projection with amazing audio quality.

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Performance, audio WE’D IMPROVE Smart features THE LAST WORD Optoma P2 is an easyto-use ultra-short throw laser projector that delivers top-notch projection and audio.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 67

Tested Roli LUMI

LIGHT TOUCH

Roli LUMI Sleek, portable and intuitive, this light-up keyboard is a great way to learn piano playlumi.com icking up a new instrument is never easy. Which is why Roli’s LUMI created such a buzz when it hit Kickstarter last year. Now on sale at last, it makes learning piano light work.

First thing you’ll likely notice is what a looker LUMI is. Power it up and a rainbow of lights glissandos its way up the keys. While playing songs and taking lessons each natural note is coded with the colour of the spectrum, lighting up to indicate which should be played when.

Aside from this riot of colour, it’s a very streamlined, lightweight device: barring a power button and USB-C port, the only real adornment are plug-and-play connectors on either end allowing you to hook it up to Roli Blocks devices or connect multiple LUMIs together. And to get the full experience, you’re definitely going to want to stretch to two – each two-octave device is only really suitable for one hand at a time.

When you fire up the associated app on your phone or tablet, pairing a single or even several LUMIs over Bluetooth is a dream. We did have some issues on a subsequent session though, forcing us to plug them in to a laptop and check for firmware upgrades.

Both sections of the app offer a beautifully

P

68 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

modular approach to learning. Broken down into individual lessons and challenges, the Learn section comprises interactive videos and scrolling Guitar-Hero-esque sections for picking up technique. Meanwhile, the Play section not only offers songs for all skill levels but allows you to change the speed of playback and switch between playing with the right hand, the left or both, helping you slowly build up the challenge.

Playing the LUMI is a joy – it’s very responsive, with no perceptible delay between pressing keys and hearing the notes. The only slight niggle is that, as the keys don’t travel all that far, it’s easy to accidentally trigger notes twice.

The app also still has some slight teething problems. Occasionally we completed a chapter of lessons, only to return later to find our progress had been forgotten. There are also a few oversights: while you can slow things down and easily skip backwards and forwards in the Play section of the app, you’re unable to do either in individual lessons, forcing you to sit through introductory videos again.

Ultimately, these minor issues still don’t take the shine off LUMI. It’s by far the most effective music-learning system we’ve seen so far.

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Beautifully designed; very responsive; offers great range of songs and lessons.

WE’D IMPROVE Easy to trigger notes twice; some issues with pairing; few bugs in the app.

THE LAST WORD Despite the odd niggles here and there, the LUMI is every bit as brilliant as its rainbow-hued keys would suggest. All in all, it’s a great way to top up your technique and become a piano pro.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Tested Apple iPhone 12 Pro

IPHONE WHOAH!

Apple iPhone 12 Pro

It has best-in-class cameras, speed, screen quality and design – but you’ll pay for it From `1,19,000, apple.com

f you’ve read our review of the iPhone 12, you’ll be aware that this year’s mid-range iPhone has already set a high bar. But with a few extras, the 12 Pro sails over this, offering one of the best designed and most powerful phones available – with an equally premium price.

This is a gorgeous-looking gadget. The gold version, for example, has a solid gold band around the outside, visible from the front, surrounding a sleek black, shiny oblong on the front. It makes this phone look more like a piece of jewellery, an accessory, than other phones. Yet despite these refined looks, it’s hardier than ever: it includes Apple’s new ‘Ceramic Shield’ glass, which the company says is four times more likely to survive a drop.

The iPhone 12 Pro has an OLED display, with a resolution of 1170x2532, which is 460 pixels per inch. That’s exactly the same as the iPhone 12. But with a typical brightness of 800 nits and reported peak HDR brightness of 1,200 nits, the screen is nothing less than stunning.

The big talk around the display in the iPhone 12 Pro is the lack of 90Hz or 120Hz support. We were surprised not to see support here, but aside from gaming, which benefits from faster response times, a higher refresh rate just makes things animate more smoothly, which is very nice, but not essential.

The iPhone 12 Pro’s triple-lens camera appears very similar to the 11 Pro’s, but there are improvements inside and out. Its 12MP wide-angle lens now has a wider f/1.6 aperture than the 11 Pro and it packs a 12MP 2x telephoto lens on top of the 12’s 12MP 0.5x ultra-wide. And there’s a new piece of hardware to help with low-light shooting in particular: LiDAR. A depth-scanning sensor on the back makes autofocus so much faster in low light compared to other phones – even the iPhone 12.

The telephoto lens hasn’t changed. It’s a 2x zoom compared to the wide-angle camera, which is the same as the 11 Pro. With the likes of the Samsung S20 Ultra offering

I

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

a 5x telephoto lens, it feels like Apple is behind here.

5G is one of the biggest new features on the spec sheet, though it does share that with the iPhone 12, of course.

And it’s not the only speed improvement. In benchmarks, the new A14 processor is around 20% faster than the A13 chip in the iPhone 11 Pro. Apps open almost instantly, and the interface is totally smooth.

Yes, the iPhone 12 Pro is expensive. But the iPhone has always been more than the sum of its parts: sure you can get an 120Hz screen here or a longer battery life there but no other phone is class-leading in so many areas at once.

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Amazing HDR screen; superb camera; top processor; 5G; great build quality.

WE’D IMPROVE Expensive; average battery life; no 90Hz or 120Hz screen; you may want a longer zoom.

THE LAST WORD The iPhone 12 Pro feels truly elite to use. Everything about it is high-end. Some won’t like the lack of longer zoom or high refresh rates, but there are trade-offs for those.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 69

Tested

ULTRA GAMING

LG 27GN950 UltraGear LG’s latest 27-inch monitor makes 144Hz 4K gaming possible `59,990, lg.com/in G is a common name in India for their televisions, but the Korean company has some ground to cover for making its monitors as ubiquitous as their TV sets. They have been expanding their portfolio slowly and steadily and the latest one to join is 27GN950 UltraGear, a 27-inch 4K gaming monitor.

The 27GN950 packs a punch when it comes to tech and connectivity. The Nano IPS panel offers great viewing angle and 98% DCI-P3 colour gamut, along with 10-bit colour for an improved viewing experience. The panel is VESA DisplayHDR600 certified, but given the edge-lit local dimming, the HDR experience is okayish.

The monitor features quite a few connectivity options like USB 3.0, two HDMI 2.0 ports and one DisplayPort and while it can output at 4K UHD (3840x2160) on both HDMI and DisplayPort, achieving 144Hz refresh rate at 4K resolution will require a compatible GPU that supports DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC. Faster refresh rate at 4K is not possible for gaming consoles over HDMI. Having said that, 144Hz refresh rate at 4K along with 1ms response time ensures one of the best gaming experience when you are playing an FPS or any other fast-paced game. Adaptive Sync helps to reduce screen tearing and stuttering, irrespective of the Nvidia or an AMD GPU as the monitor supports both Nvidia G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. There are no integrated speakers, but the monitor has a 3.5mm headphone jack to plug your choice of headphones and earphones and control their volume with the OSD button below the monitor.

The 27-inch screen takes all the attention at the front with virtually no bezels around the display and no branding to distract the user. The back, however, proves its gaming credentials with a circular RGB ring aka sphere lighting, which is bright enough to act as ambient light and is completely customisable with the help of additional downloadable software or a dial concealed nicely under the monitor. To make it truly immersive, the lights can also be synced to video or audio, so it changes colours according to what’s happening on the screen. The V-Wing shaped stand complements the monitor and can be adjusted to tilt, pivot, raise or lower the height.

The LG 27GN950 is an interesting monitor. While it cuts some corners on the HDR side but compensates it by delivering excellent picture quality, colours and fast refresh rate.

L

70 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Performance WE’D IMPROVE HDR THE LAST WORD The 27GN950 UltraGear is a competitively priced monitor that brings 4K gaming with 144Hz refresh rate and great colour support.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Game Immortals Fenyx Rising

Immortals Fenyx Rising A refreshing and fun game based on Greek mythology ` 3,999; Xbox Series X|S (reviewed), Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC

H

ot on the heels of releasing sequels in the established Assassin’s Creed and Watch Dogs franchise, Ubisoft is experimenting with a brand new IP. The Immortals Fenyx Rising is Ubisoft’s latest that delves into the Greek mythology on how Typhon, the imprisoned antagonist, has escaped and robbed powers from gods and now it is up to Fenyx, a mortal to defeat Typhon and bring balance in the universe.

Despite the humongous task on Fenyx’s shoulders, the game never feels serious or dark, thanks to the banter between Prometheus and Zeus and the lighthearted tone.

It is what makes the Immortals Fenyx Rising fun to play.

Immortals Fenyx Rising borrows elements from different games, but it all fits well in Immortals’ openworld universe. You have got wings that let you glide and traverse the beautifully stylised open-world or you can tame mounts or just fast travel. The freedom to explore god inspired seven regions is on the player.

The open-world is complemented with many collectables and quests. There are way too many to collect that can be used to upgrade the character with upgrades like increasing the stamina meter, health, weapons or mythical powers or simply craft potions. Similarly, there W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

are several quests to complete, which can be a blend of combat and puzzles. The hack-and-slash combat with the right amount of dodging does not feel as challenging in normal mode The puzzles are well-designed and don’t feel difficult or very easy. Having said that, despite the similar gameplay loop, Ubisoft has done a good job to mix-and-match the quests to not feel repetitive.

Immortals Fenyx Rising can be quick to dismiss given the heavyweights in Ubisoft’s portfolio but it’s the fun element along with a decent story, puzzles and combat makes the game enjoyable for hours.

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Gameplay WE’D IMPROVE Can feel repetitive THE LAST WORD Immortals Fenyx Rising gives hours of entertainment with its lighthearted nature, artsy world, and a healthy amount of puzzles and fights.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today 71

Game Cyberpunk 2077

Cyberpunk 2077 A city with a lot of potential but infested with bugs `3,999; Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS4 (reviewed), PS5, PC amers this year experienced some of the best games like The Last of Us Part II, Ghost of Tsushima, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Microsoft Flight Simulator and the last major launch of the year was Cyberpunk 2077, which unsurprisingly, was one of the most anticipated games. But our playtime with the game on the PS4 and all we could think of, “was the hype around the game justified?”

You play as a character named V and at the start of the game need to choose from three lifepaths - Nomad, Streetkid, or Corpo, but except for a few missions and dialogue options, the story remains more or less similar. In short, things don’t go as expected and V is now the mercenary in Night City armed with cybernetic enhancements. The entry of Johnny Silverhand (played by Keanu Reeves) in the story campaign is because of a botched heist but gets the ball rolling to advance the story. CD Projekt Red (CDPR) is one of the best in storytelling, and it shows with Cyberpunk 2077 as well. It’s a little unfair to compare Cyberpunk with The Witcher 3, but the main story is engaging with some welletched characters and wonderful voice acting.

Adding to the positive things about Cyberpunk is the deep upgrade system with the detailed character skill tree and upgrading weapons and cybernetic mods. The Night City looks visually stunning too, capturing the essence of a dystopian megalopolis. However, this is where the chinks appear. As sprawling Night City is, the city feels lifeless with few pedestrians walking

G

72 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

the streets and sparse traffic. Not to mention the unintelligent AI. Unfortunately, that’s not the only flaw.

During our playthrough, we experienced a few game crashes, delayed loading of textures, driving feels like gliding and in one case, the NPC standing ground thus, not allowing us to advance the mission. The bugs are random and are everywhere that just lets the overall experience down.

And if you were still wondering if the game is worth buying now on last-gen consoles? The brief answer is no. The fact that Sony has yanked the digital version from its store is proof enough how the game is in its current state. But the long answer is that the game with these bugs feels incomplete and leaves a bad taste of the Cyberpunk experience that CDPR promised.

Instead, wait till CDPR irons out these issues and hopefully, experience Night City at a discount.

78) *$0,1* 9* $4/ $

NT 3FGSFTI 3BUF

"464 &YDMVTJWF 5FDIOPMPHZ #SJHIUFS TIBSQFS )%3 WJTVBMT

VERDICT WE’RE IMPRESSED Story WE’D IMPROVE Bugs THE LAST WORD In its current state, Cyberpunk 2077 on last-gen consoles seems incomplete. But overall, the game has a lot of potential to become as good as CDPR’s previous game.

&YQFSJFODF USVF DPMPVS

)RU PRUH GHWDLOV YLVLW ZZZ DVXV LQ W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Best of the best

BEST OF THE BEST The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best tech, all in one place

INSIDE

,I \RXèUH ORRNLQJ IRU WKH YHU\ EHVW WHFK DYDLODEOH WRGD\ \RXèYH GHÄ&#x2020;QLWHO\ FRPH WR WKH right place. %HVW RI WKH %HVW LV WKH PRVW XVHIXO JDGJHW EX\LQJ JXLGH \RX ZLOO HYHU HQFRXQWHU To create it, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve extensively tested the best tech the world has to offer, to bring \RX URFN VROLG UHFRPPHQGDWLRQV IRU \RXU KRPH OLIH GDLO\ FRPPXWH DQG WKH WHFK \RX XVH DOO WKH WLPH In 21 different categories, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve chosen the top three products, so you can choose RQH WKDWèV MXVW WKH ULJKW PL[ RI IHDWXUHV DQG EXGJHW IRU ZKDW \RX QHHG 7KHVH UDQNLQJV FRPH IURP UHDO WHVWLQJ E\ RXU WHDP RI H[SHUWV Ã¥ WKH\èUH WKH SURGXFWV ZHèG FKRRVH IRU RXUVHOYHV DQG ZH FDQèW UHFRPPHQG DQ\ KLJKHU WKDQ WKDW

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Smartphones Mid-range Smartphones Value Smartphones Smartwatches Premium TVs Value TVs Streamers Game Consoles Truly Wireless Headphones Laptops Gaming Laptops Tablets DSLR Cameras Mirrorless Cameras Compact Cameras Action Cameras Drones Fitness Tracker Running Watch Smart Speakers Smart Bulbs

74 74 74 75 75 75 76 76 76 77 77 77 78 78 78 79 79 79 80 80 80

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 73

Best of the best

SMARTPHONES

MID RANGE SMARTPHONES

APPLE IPHONE 11 PRO

XIAOMI MI 10

From `99,900, apple.com/in

From `49,999, mi.com/in

Packing the best screen and camera on any phone, plus the fastest processor and a beautiful highquality build, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a phone that earns its Pro name. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a totally polished package.

ONEPLUS 8 PRO From `54,999, oneplus.in A simply jawdropping handset that delivers across the board. It is, simply SXW WKHbEHVWbSKRQH on the market for those shopping IRUbDbSUHPLXP Android handset.

SAMSUNG GALAXY S20+

VALUE SMARTPHONES POCO X2

From `16,999, poco.in Poco X2 features The Mi 10 boasts speed 64MP main camera and power thanks to which is all-the-more t e Snapdragon 865 powerful with Sonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s p and a 108MP main large IMX686 sensor. ca ra, capable of But besides that, the X2 shootting 8K videos. It is is a powerhouse with Q DI DIIRUGDEOH Ä&#x2021;DJVKLS DQ 120Hz FHD+ display, tthat packs in high-end Snapdragon 730G features like a superior chipset and 8GB RAM cooling system, LPDDR5 HQVXULQJ HIÄ&#x2020;FLHQF\ RAM and much more.

GOOGLE O PIXEL 4A From `31,999, store.google.com The Pixel 4a is Googleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest mid-range phone and while the design may not win any awards but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the overall performance, excellent camera and all-day battery life in a small body makes the phone one of the best in the segment.

APPLE IPHONE SE 2020

XIAOMI REDMI NOTE 9 PRO From `13,999, mi.com/in Assuring reliability and power, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to believe that the Note 9 Pro is so affordable.

Even though it features a similar design, it comes with Snapdragon 720G, a large 6.67â&#x20AC;? display and a 48MP sensor, which is the largest of the quadcamera system.

REALME 6 PRO

From `77,999, samsung.com/in From `39,900, apple.com/in From `17,999, realme.com/in Built around a Having the power of With a 90Hz 6.6â&#x20AC;? revolutionary camera the latest A13 Bionic screen, and realmeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s system with a larger chipset that powers improved UI, the sensor, the Galaxy S20+ heavyweights like the realme 6 Pro offers also features a 120Hz iPhone 11 Pro, the good value for money.

Quad HD+ screen, iPhone SE is one of the It features a total of with an Exynos 990 most affordable iPhones six cameras and comes processor and superior out there. With a 12MP with Snapdragon features, the S20+ is a f/1.8 camera, 4K video 720G processor and head-turner. at 60fps, the iPhone SE an Adreno 618 GPU. is worth every penny.

SAMSUNG GALAXY S20 ULTRA From `86,999, samsung.com Samsung has really gone to town here, from the 100x digital zoom on the rear camera to the huge 6.9-inch AMOLED display around the front. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the priciest of the S20 models, and it shows.

74 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

ONEPLUS NORD From F m `24,9 `24 9 999 99, onep oneplus.in A fantastic mid-ranger, with a S Snapdragon 765G processor, at least 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, and 5G. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not to mention the sharp, bright 6.44-inch A AMOLED display.

SAMSUNG GALAXY M31 From `16,999, samsung.com/in The M31 features an excellent quad at the back, with a 64MP main camera offering ultrahigh-res images with stunning details. There are other things going for the phone with a large 6000mAh battery, octacore processor and more.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Best of the best

SMARTWATCHES APPLE WATCH SERIES 5 From `36,900, apple.com/in This truly straddles the line between tech and fashion; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just the bestlooking smartwatch, but its health and Ä&#x2020;WQHVV IHDWXUHV always-on screen and good apps PDNH LW HVVHQWLDO

SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH ACTIVE2

From `28,490, samsung.com

Sleek and powerful, this is the best smartwatch for Android users. The screen and design are on par with the Apple Watch, while a collection of new watch faces give it DbPRGHUQ HGJH SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH ACTIVE

From `19,990, samsung.com/in Sleek and powerful, this is the best smartwatch for Android users. The screen and design are on par with the Apple Watch, while a collection of new watch faces give it DbPRGHUQ HGJH

OPPO WATCH From `14,990, oppo.com/in The Oppo Watch may give Apple Watch vibes but it is one of the premium looking Android Wear smartwatches you can buy right now and is packed with features.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

PREMIUM TVS SAMSUNG 75Q950TS `10,49,990, samsung.com Samsungâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2020 Ä&#x2021;DJVKLS 79 LV RXU new pick for the best TV you can buy even though 8K content is rare, thanks to the way it takes 4K video and boosts it to make use of its . UHVROXWLRQ

LG OLED65CX `2,98,990, lg.com The blockbuster of LGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2020 range: itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got the same image quality as TVs double its price, but delivers them at a price more people can afford, especially now that thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a new 48-inch that costs even less.

SAMSUNG QE65Q95T `2,59,990, samsung.com With a brightness of over 2,000 nits and localised dimming, the HDR picture from this pair of sets is incredible. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrant and lush, but still maintains realism for skin and grittier scenes.

VALUE TVS XIAOMI MI LED TV 4X PRO `39,999, mi.com/in The TV has gone pro with the all-new Android OS giving users the goodness of Android interface and PatchWall.

The 4.9mm thin TV comes with a 55inch 4K HDR display and Dolby Audio.

SAMSUNG NU6100 UHD TV From `41,990, samsung.com/in Samsungâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answer to the intense competition. It comes in three different size options and brings UHD playback, Live Cast support, screen mirroring and support for video streaming apps.

VU PIXELIGHT ULTRA HD LED SMART TV From `30,999, vutvs.com Vuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pixelight range brings 4K playback at an affordable price. It comes with its own version of Smart OS but supports access to widely watched video services like 1HWÄ&#x2021;L[ <RX7XEH DQG even Prime Video.

SONY BRAVIA X9000H

SANYO XT-43S7300F

`104,490, sony.co.in A full-array LED TV that boasts a lot of features for an improved picture and gaming experience.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got Dolby Vision, 4K support and has a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ready for PS5â&#x20AC;&#x2122; tag with its HDMI 2.1 support.

`19,999, www.sanyoappliance.in/ The IPS LED panel outputs a crisp Full HD picture and comes equipped with 16W box speakers that are decently loud.

Additionally, the TV comes with a 3.5mm output jack.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 75

Best of the best

STREAMERS CHROMECAST

GAMING MICROSOFT XBOX ONE X

`3,499, store.google.com/in

`44,990, microsoft.com

The Chromecast is a receiver for phones and laptops and depends on them for control and content â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simple, versatile and compatible with iOS, Android, Windows and Mac.

AMAZON FIRE TV STICK 4K `5,999, amazon.in

With 4K, Dolby Atmos, Ultra HD Blu-ray and a fairly FRPSDFW SURÄ&#x2020;OH this is the best Xbox ever. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even more powerful than the PS4 Pro and also a great home entertainment hub.

SONY PS4 PRO

APPLE TV 4K

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still overkill if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a 4K TV, but with 2160p HDR gaming, the PS4 Pro delivers incredible visuals and is smoother and faster than its nonPro siblings.

MICROSOFT XBOX ONE S

`15,900, apple.com/in iTunes has the biggest source of 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos movies, and lots of other services have DSSV KHUH WRR <RX can also easily stream to it from Macs and L26bGHYLFHV

`29,990, microsoft.com The S is smaller, whiter and much cheaper than its big brother, and while you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get its siblingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s super-powered specs you still get Ultra HD %OX UD\ $ Ä&#x2020;QH KRPH entertainment hub.

XIAOMI MI BOX 4K

ASUS TUF VG279QM

From `3,499, mi.com/in The Mi Box supports 4K and operates on Android TV OS 9.0.

It also has a built-in Google Assistant and Chromecast, making life easier for users, in addition to Chromecast-enabled apps and USB 2.0 and a Cortex-A53 Quad-core CPU.

`37,999, asus.com/in

76 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

JABRA ELITE ACTIVE 75T `12,999, jabra.in If the Beats are just too bulbous for your tastes, you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Ä&#x2020;QG Ä&#x2020;QHU WKDQ WKHVH Jabra buds. Sound quality could be described as a little DUWLÄ&#x2020;FLDO EXW LWèV DOVR pleasingly pumping.

RHA TRUECONNECT `14,999, headphonezone.in

`38,710, sony.co.in 4K HDR for under `6,000 isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t to be sniffed at. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best suited to Prime subscribers and Google apps are absent, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very capable and affordable streamer IRUb79 DQG PRYLHV

TRUE WIRELESS HEADPHONES

A full HD monitor thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comes with an ultra-fast 280Hz refresh rate. Designed for professional gamers, it has a 1ms of response time, motion EOXU V\QF * 6<1& IRU tear-free gaming, HDR and more.

Even more comfy, though perhaps slightly less secure, than the Jabras, these also offer best-in-class audio. Aside from a slightly odd carry case, these are textbook true wireless buds.

APPLE AIRPODS `12,900, apple.com/in Appleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wireless â&#x20AC;&#x2122;phones may not sound as good as some of the newer rivals, but they still beat them all for battery life, ease of use and often comfort.

They work best with iOS, of course.

SAMSUNG GALAXY BUDS `9,990, samsung.com/in Samsungâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest truly wireless earbuds have been tuned by AKG to deliver improved audio, adaptive dual mic tech helps keep the background noise at bay and up to 6 hours of playback and wireless charging support.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Best of the best

LAPTOPS ASUS VIVOBOOK S15 `66,990, asus.com This slim and super light laptop hits a wonderful sweet spot. With an Intel Core i5, 4GB of RAM, a 256GB SSD and a touchscreen ScreenPad, it represents wonderful mid-range value.

DELL XPS 13 `1,44,790, dell.co.in The Dell XPS 13 is thinner and more powerful than ever. Up to 1TB of SSD storage, 16GB of RAM, and powerful Intel Core i7 processors help make it a high quality all-rounder.

ACER SWIFT 5 `92,990, acer.com

ASUS ROG ZEPHYRUS G14 From `92,990, asus.com A game-changer that delivers buckets of performance despite being compact and light. It does this thanks to its use of AMDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hot new Ryzen CPUs and Nvidiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s RTX *38

APPLE MACBOOK PRO 16-INCH From `2,39,900, apple.com As you would expect, the MacBook Pro 16-inch is sleek and powerful, with a EHVW LQ FODVV Ä&#x2020;W DQG Ä&#x2020;QLVK DQG D EUDQG new keyboard thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leaps and bounds better than previous incarnations.

TABLETS APPLE IPAD AIR (2019) From `41,900, apple.com With a sharp, vibrant 10.5-inch screen, Apple Pencil support, powerful A12 Bionic processor and thin, light body, this is a Pro in all but name, for a bargain price.

The best all-rounder tablet.

MSI GS65 STEALTH THIN 8RF

APPLE IPAD PRO 12.9 (2018)

From `3,25,999, msi.com This gaming laptop manages to pack an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 GPU, Intel Core i7 CPU and 16GB of RAM into a very portable package. Its Full HD, wide-view 144Hz panel is top rate, too.

From `89,900, apple.com The biggest iPad Pro is unbelievably powerful and slick, with an excellent screen, thin and compact design, great battery life and support for the Apple Pencil.

Pricey, but worth it.

ACER NITRO 5 `89,990, acer.com

Made for professionals looking for higher HIÄ&#x2020;FLHQF\ 6ZLIW is powered by the latest Intel Core i7 processor, Intelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Iris Plus GPU, and with 16GB RAM. The Swift 5 comes with a 14â&#x20AC;? IPS display and offers a storage of 512GB.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

GAMING LAPTOPS

APPLE IPAD 10.2 (2019) From `38,900, apple.com

With a powerful 10th-gen Intel Core i7 processor and a GeForce GTX 1650 GPU, along with DTS X: Ultra Audio and a FHD IPS display panel, the laptop produces an immersive and high-performing gaming environment.

ALIENWARE AREA-51M From `2,99,590, dell.co.in The Area-51m is not only one of the most powerful gaming laptops till date but also supports upgradeability with a removable processor and GPU. Although the Core i7/i9 and Geforce RTX GPU will not get outdated.

A whole lot of Apple tablet for not much money, it offers Apple Pencil support and the latest iPadOS software.

Perfect if you want top tablet performance on DbEXGJHW

SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB S6 `59,900, samsung.com 7KH Ä&#x2020;QHVW $QGURLG tablet, this delivers DbV\VWHP ZLWK a sharp OLED screen, S Pen stylus, excellent audio credentials, powerful internals, and a neat laptopaping DeX mode.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 77

Best of the best

DSLR CAMERAS

MIRRORLESS CAMERAS

COMPACT CAMERAS

NIKON D850

NIKON Z 6

SONY RX100 VII

`2,34,950, nikon.co.in

`2,08,950, nikon.co.in

`1,02,990, sony.co.in

With a highresolution 45.4 megapixel sensor, 4K video capture, a 153-point AF system, and a sturdy body, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never be disappointed with what the D850 can create for you.

NIKON D500

With a full-frame 24.5 megapixel sensor, 12fps continuous shooting, phenomenal low-light performance and fantastic handling, this creates incredible images for a reasonable price.

CANON EOS RP

`1,36,950, nikon.co.in

`85,995, in.canon

NIKON D5600

SONY A7R IV

From `66,750, nikon.co.in Designed for beginners and midlevel photographers, Nikonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s light-weight (465 g body with battery) APS-C sensor 24.78 megapixel D-SLR is a good choice to carry along the whole day.

FUJIFILM X100F ` IXMLÄ&#x2020;OP LQ

Excellent full-frame image quality, but with a few drawbacks, such as a low frame rate (5fps). Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also the annoying problem of there still being scant native RF lenses available.

This solidly built camera is the SHUIHFW FKRLFH IRU those who like to shoot a little bit of everything, thanks to a brilliant autofocus system and glorious image quality from its 20MP sensor.

For the best image quality in a pocketfriendly body, look here. The RX100 VII continues to build on Sonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation for high-quality premium compacts, and does so without breaking the bank.

7KH )XMLÄ&#x2020;OP ; ) is as beautiful as it is capable. If the retro ORRN Ä&#x2021;RDWV \RXU ERDW then the X100F is a thing to behold. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s compact, but packs a large APS-C sensor and a lovely 35mm f/2.0 lens.

CANON G7X MARK II

From `2,99,990, sony.co.in Perfect for landscape photographers looking for the minutest detail in their large prints. In spite of its massive 61MP rating, it can shoot up to 10 frames per second with autofocus and auto exposure tracking in its Continuous Hi+ mode.

`40,395, canon.co.in Canonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s compact cameras are a great alternative to your DSLR when travelling light. This is the sweet spot in the range, with a great balance between small size and a range of features.

CANON 5D MARK IV

FUJIFILM X-T3

PANASONIC TZ200

From `2,90,995, canon.co.in

` IXMLÄ&#x2020;OP LQ

`50,500 (approx.), panasonic.com

The 30.4 megapixel D-SLR from Canon is one of its most sought-after models. Using a full frame sensor and Dual-Pixel CMOS AF for video, the 5D IV is the bread-andbutter camera for most photographers today.

78 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty of things to like about the X-T3, including great autofocusing, fast frame rates, an impressive array of 4K video features and, this being )XMLÄ&#x2020;OP EHDXWLIXO retro looks.

This might be the ideal travel companion, with a versatile zoom lens up to 15x, and a fantastic one-inch sensor that captures bright, sharp images.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also stylish and pocket-friendly.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

Best of the best

ACTION CAMERAS GOPRO HERO8 BLACK `30,150 gopro.com

DRONES DJI MAVIC MINI approx. `36,000, dji.com

`27,999, gopro.com The waterproof Hero7 Black makes capturing pro-looking shots easier, thanks to HyperSmooth electronic stabilisation. 4K image quality is excellent, and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s slick 60fps recording.

DJI OSMO ACTION `22,850, amazon.in With a cool front display but missing SuperView mode and live streaming, DJIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cam is ideal for extreme sports types and vloggers.

Image stabilisation is excellent, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to use.

GOPRO MAX `42,999, gopro.com Addresses the issues that marred GoProâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original 360-camera â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Fusion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and boasts some of the Hero8 Blackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s excellent video capture facilities and intuitive user interface.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

FITBIT CHARGE 4 ` Ä&#x2020;WELW FRP

$UJXDEO\ WKH Ä&#x2020;UVW high-quality cameracarrying drone for the masses, the Mini is surprisingly fast, nimble and stable LQ Ä&#x2021;LJKW DQG ZHLJKV 1g shy of the CAAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 250g registration regulation.

GoProâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest sees updates everywhere. Four virtual lenses get \RX WKH LGHDO Ä&#x2020;HOG of view for what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re shooting, and next-gen video VWDELOLVDWLRQ NHHSV LW stable and crisp.

GOPRO HERO7 BLACK

FITNESS TRACKER

DJI MAVIC AIR 2 approx. `75,000, dji.com Everything about this GURQH VKRXWV %8< ME. The camera is a cracker capable of shooting 4K footage at 60fps, while a completely redesigned controller is another major improvement.

RYZE TELLO

A big step forward for Fitbit, adding features such as GPS and a new exercise tracker alongside the stepcounting. There are plentiful sleeptracking features too.

FITBIT VERSA 2 ` Ä&#x2020;WELW FRP 7KH EHVW Ä&#x2020;WQHVV tracker-cumsmartwatch you can buy. It has Alexa built in, its heartbeat and step counting are reasonably accurate, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been well designed in terms of looks and usability.

GARMIN VIVOSPORT

`12,990, amazon.in This is a bargain â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it uses DJI tech inside IRU Ä&#x2021;LJKW VWDELOLW\ KDV a camera that takes HD video or 5MP snaps, and hovers VWLOO IRU VHOÄ&#x2020;HV ,W FDQ Ä&#x2021;\ LQGRRUV RU RXW though is too light for windy days.

DJI MAVIC 2 PRO

`16,990, garmin.com Garminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rival to the Charge 2 boasts GPS for a similar price, but it also has a dodgy interface and some pointless extra features. The core functionality is good, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterproof.

POLAR IGNITE approx. `18,000, polar.com

`1,10,000, dji.com This pro-spec drone is almost impossible to crash, and has a stunning three-axis gimbal-mounted Hasselblad camera.

As rock solid and FRQÄ&#x2020;GHQFH LQVSLULQJ as weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve come to expect.

Though mainly aimed at runners, the Ignite can track other activities, and monitor your sleep and heart rate too. <RX JHW LQVWDQW VWDWV after exercise, with deeper analysis in the app.

JANUARY 2021 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today 79

Best of the best

RUNNING WATCH GARMIN FORERUNNER 245 MUSIC `32,490, garmin.com

SMART SPEAKERS GOOGLE NEST HUB `6,999, store.google.com

The ultimate phone-free GPS running watch for the price-conscious runner. The battery can last up to seven days in smartwatch PRGH DQG VL[bKRXUV in GPS mode with music.

GARMIN FORERUNNER 945 `59,925, garmin.com

SMART BULBS PHILIPS HUE From `2,900, meethue.com

The digital frame that will show off photos and double up as dutiful voice assistant. The Nest Hub can control smart home appliances and play videos and music.

AMAZON ECHO PLUS `6,499, amazon.in

The Forerunner 945 has retained the look and feel of the 935, but inside it has been completely revamped.

There are new GPS chips and heart-rate sensors, plus onboard maps.

Hue dominates the smart lighting sector for good reason: it’s a superb system with the widest range of bulbs and a simple, useful app. Rivals may be cheaper but they can’t compete with Hue’s variety.

TP-LINK LB130 `1,999, tp-link.in

Thanks to its integrated Zigbeecompliant smart home hub, the Plus is a great smart home starter. Never pay the RRP, though: Amazon discounts Echos every WLPH LW KDV D VDOH

POLAR VANTAGE V

BOSE HOME SPEAKER 500

approx. `45,000, polar.com

`39,000, bose.co.in

$ SHFXOLDU ćDJVKLS smartwatch, this has some unique features that might arouse the runners out there, especially the running power metric, measured on the wrist.

This Bose speakers offer the widest soundstage available in a smart speaker with a wall-towall stereo sound. It supports Amazon Alexa, which means you can ask questions to Alexa or control the device via voice.

Known for its routers but TP-Link offers decent smart bulb solutions and LB130 is their latest solution that does not require a hub to operate, It can be controlled over Wi-Fi and supports multi-colour, circadian mode, voice control.

MI LED SMART BULB `1,299, mi.com/in The Mi LED Smart Bulb is the newest entrant in the smart bulb segment that works with both Alexa and Google Assistant without the need of a bridge and offers a colour space of up to 16 million colours.

GARMIN FORERUNNER 45

AMAZON ECHO DOT

SYSKA SMART LIGHT

`17,490, garmin.com This lower mid-range watch from Garmin gets the basics right: it has an optical heart rate sensor, built-in GPS, supports smart QRWLĆFDWLRQV DQG the Garmin Coach feature too.

`2,249, amazon.in

From `1,799, syska.com Syska’s main USP is that it uses a normal B22 cap and doesn’t require a hub to operate. After connecting, the bulb can be connected DQG PRGLĆHG IURP anywhere with the help of the app.

80 T3 Tomorrow’s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

The latest refresh of the Dot ups the audio quality and adds options like a clockpacking bedroom YHUVLRQ DQGbD VQD]]\ kids’ edition too. An excellent entry point to smart speakers.

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M

WHY WOULD YOU SUBSCRIBE to T3 Here are

4

Really Good Reasons!

1 DELIVERED FREE TO YOUR DOOR 2 SAVE UP TO 33% ON COVER PRICE 3 NEVER MISS AN ISSUE AGAIN 4 AND MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL,

A SERIOUSLY GOOD QUALITY MAGAZINE...

1

THREE EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE

Online Visit at http://secure.nextgenpublishing.in/

2

Call +91 22 4352 5252

TO SUBSCRIBE

3

Post Next Gen Publishing Pvt Ltd, 105-106, Trade World, B Wing, 1st Floor, Kamala Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel West, Mumbai-400013

3 years subscription `4680 Pay `3,135

1 year subscription `1560 Pay ` 1,200

and save `1,545 on the cover price (33% off)

and save `360 on the cover price (23% off)

INTERNATIONAL RATE - 1 YEAR USD 135 BY AIR MAIL POST YOUR DETAILS (ALL DETAILS IN CAPITAL LETTERS) Name: Mr/Ms ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Occupation .........................................................................................................................Date of birth ........................................................................

Address ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

City ......................................................................... State ....................................................................Pincode ..............................................................

Email .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Mobile ............................................................................... Phone (Off) ............................................Phone (Res) ............................................................

Kindly draw the Cheque/DD/PO in favor of NEXT GEN PUBLISHING PVT. LTD. (Please add Rs. 20/- extra for outstation cheque)

Please Find enclosed Cheque/DD no. ............................................................................................................................................... Dated ................................................................

Bank .................................................................................................................................................................................................... Branch ....................................................

Signature ..................................................................................................................

Electronic payment may be made with RTGS/NEFT to current account number 00602320009684 maintained with HDFC Bank Manekji Wadia Bldg.

Ground Floor, Nanik Motwani Marg, Fort, Mumbai - 400001, Maharashtra with IFSC code HDFC0000060 Please complete the order form and mail it to us at Next Gen Publishing Pvt Ltd, 105-106, Trade World, B Wing, 1st Floor, Kamala Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel West, Mumbai-400013 For clarifications, email: subscriptions@nextgenpublishing.net or call +91 22 4352 5252 TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Please allow 4-5 weeks for processing of your subscription. Copies will be sent by ordinary post only. Next Gen Publishing will not be responsible for postal delay, transit loses or mutilation of copies. No cancellation of subscriptions will be entertained after commencement of subscription. Please mention your name and address on the reverse of your DD/ Cheque. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of courts in Mumbai only.

T3 JANUARY 2021

OR

LUXURIES Exclusive gifts to seriously spoil yourself

BAC A R DI M I X I NG C ONS OL E Given weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re facing a fairly locked down festive period, we could all do with a taste of the Caribbean right now. Fortunately, Bacardi has you covered, bringing you that bashment spirit, whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re more interested in spinning records or spinning liquor bottles. Designed by renowned furniture designer Hugh Miller, the Mixing Console brings together a vinyl mixing console and a drinks cart. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s custom-built, with the turntable base and the bar top crafted from the rum-soaked staves of the barrels of Bacardiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premium range. The bespoke walnut drinks tray houses glassware, shakers and spirit bottles, while the built-in Fluance RT80 Vinyl turntable is hooked up to custom 50-watt Bluetooth speakers fronted with an eye-catching brass mesh. $OO LQ DOO WKLV LV WKH SHUIHFW FHQWUHSLHFH IRU JHWWLQJ WKH WXQHV SXPSLQJ DQG GULQNV Ä&#x2021;RZLQJ approx. `1,69,000, minimauk.com

82 T3 Tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Today JANUARY 2021

W W W.T 3 I N D I A . CO M