New Freely Update Delivers Improved Quality and More Choice for UK Viewers
Freely has introduced a new upgrade aimed at improving the overall viewing experience for UK households, with enhancements that include better picture performance, a smoother user interface and access to additional content. The update supports Freely’s goal of offering a modern, broadband-powered alternative to traditional broadcast systems. With these improvements, the service becomes even more appealing for viewers using both new and older compatible televisions.
One of the major enhancements is the upgrade to picture processing, which delivers noticeably sharper and cleaner playback across supported channels. Freely’s streaming approach relies on a stable internet connection rather than aerial signals, and the latest update helps boost image consistency during busy viewing periods. Users have reported clearer visuals when switching between live broadcasts and on-demand shows.
The interface has also received attention in this update, bringing smoother transitions and easier navigation across the platform. Freely’s unified guide, which merges live, catch-up and on-demand content, now responds faster when moving between sections. The improved layout reduces clutter and gives viewers quicker access to channels and programmes, particularly useful for those new to streaming-based TV platforms.
Accessibility features have been enhanced as well, helping make the service easier to use for a wider range of households. With clearer menus and improved contrast options, the updated interface is more readable on older TVs and in rooms with challenging lighting conditions. These adjustments aim to ensure the service remains straightforward for all age groups.
A key part of the update is the expansion of available content, with Freely continuing to add new channels and streaming partners. In addition to the core public service broadcasters, the platform is preparing to bring more themed channels covering entertainment, factual programming and niche genres. This broadening catalogue strengthens Freely’s position as a free, content-rich alternative to subscription streaming.
The extra content integrates seamlessly into Freely’s backwards programme guide, which allows users to scroll back through the past week of shows. This feature remains central to Freely’s design, letting viewers catch up without navigating separate apps. The update further refines this system, making it faster and more intuitive to browse previously aired content.
Freely’s on-demand section has also been improved to load more consistently and present clearer options for recently added episodes. Viewers now see more personalised suggestions based on what is trending across the platform. The blend of live and on-demand viewing continues to be one of Freely’s strongest advantages.
The smoother user experience extends to switching between channels, with less delay and fewer playback interruptions than earlier versions. This mimics the immediacy of traditional broadcast TV, which many households still value. Freely aims to provide this familiarity while offering modern flexibility through broadband delivery.
With each update, Freely strengthens its identity as the successor to older terrestrial services such as Freeview. The latest improvements will be especially welcomed by users connecting via Freely-enabled devices or plug-in boxes for non-smart TVs. These viewers gain the same improved performance without needing to upgrade their hardware.
Freely’s latest upgrade reinforces its long-term ambition to modernise free-to-watch television in the UK. By offering clearer picture quality, a more polished interface and a growing range of content, the platform provides a compelling experience for households transitioning from traditional broadcast systems. The update enhances usability across all supported setups, making Freely an increasingly strong option for everyday viewing.
Experience the Thrill of Boomer Shooters with the Latest Lineup
The curator behind the early Boomer Shooter bundles on Humble Bundle has made a comeback, and this time, they’re bringing a sharper lineup to the table. Co-curated with Kirk Collects, this new collection on Digiphile boasts seven Steam Deck-playable games. The retail value of these games exceeds £126, but you can get them for just $17.
This incredible deal is a must-have for any gaming enthusiast in the UK. With a focus on Boomer Shooters, this lineup is perfect for those who enjoy fast-paced action and thrilling gameplay. The curator’s expertise shines through in the selection of games, ensuring that each title is a gem in its own right.
The Steam Deck’s capabilities are fully utilised in this lineup, with each game optimized for a seamless gaming experience. Whether you’re a fan of classic Boomer Shooters or new to the genre, this collection has something for everyone. So why wait? Dive into the world of Boomer Shooters and discover your new favourite game.
The UK gaming community is abuzz with excitement over this new lineup, and it’s easy to see why. With its unique blend of action, excitement, and value, this collection is a game-changer. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to elevate your gaming experience and join the ranks of Boomer Shooter enthusiasts across the UK.
As you explore the world of Boomer Shooters, you’ll notice the attention to detail and care that has gone into curating this lineup. From the graphics to the gameplay, each element is designed to provide an immersive experience that will keep you coming back for more. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to experience the thrill of Boomer Shooters like never before.
In conclusion, the former Humble Bundle Boomer Shooter curator has truly outdone themselves with this latest lineup. With its impressive selection of games, seamless gameplay, and unbeatable value, this collection is a must-have for any UK gamer. So why not give it a try and discover the excitement of Boomer Shooters for yourself?
In the UK, many iPhone users are unaware of a default setting that can consume a significant amount of storage space. A simple one-click fix can help you free up gigabytes of space. This setting, often overlooked, can be easily adjusted to prevent unnecessary storage usage.
The setting in question is related to your iPhone’s behaviour when it comes to storing data. By changing this default setting, you can analyse your storage usage and identify areas where you can cut back. This is especially useful for those who use their iPhone for work or other data-intensive activities in the UK.
By making this simple change, you can save a substantial amount of storage space, just like one iPhone user who managed to free up 7GB with a single click. This is a significant amount of space that can be used to store more photos, videos, or apps. To do this, you’ll need to access your iPhone’s settings and make a small adjustment.
This adjustment is easy to make and requires minimal technical knowledge. Once you’ve made the change, you can enjoy the benefits of having more free space on your iPhone. Whether you’re in London, Manchester, or any other part of the UK, this fix can help you get the most out of your device.
In addition to freeing up space, this fix can also help improve your iPhone’s overall performance. With more available storage, your device can run more smoothly and efficiently. This is especially important for those who use their iPhone for gaming, video editing, or other resource-intensive activities.
So, if you’re running low on storage space or simply want to optimize your iPhone’s performance, this one-click fix is definitely worth trying. With its simplicity and effectiveness, it’s a great way to breathe new life into your device and keep it running at its best in the UK.
By following these simple steps, you can take control of your iPhone’s storage and enjoy a better overall user experience. Whether you’re a heavy user or just an occasional one, this fix can help you get the most out of your device and keep it running smoothly for years to come.
In conclusion, this simple one-click fix is a game-changer for iPhone users in the UK. By freeing up storage space and improving performance, it’s an essential adjustment to make. So why not give it a try and see the difference for yourself?
Forza Horizon 5 has taken the UK gaming scene by storm, with a staggering 5 million copies sold on the PS5 console. This milestone marks a significant shift in the gaming landscape, as Xbox exclusives become a rare commodity. The game’s success can be attributed to its captivating gameplay and stunning visuals.
The racing game, co-developed by Virtuos, has received widespread critical acclaim, boasting a 92 Metacritic score. This impressive feat has solidified Forza Horizon 5’s position as one of the best-selling titles on the PS5 in the UK.
The UK gaming community has embraced Forza Horizon 5 with open arms, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to analyse the impact of Forza Horizon 5’s success on the future of Xbox exclusives.
The game’s ability to transcend platform boundaries has been a key factor in its success, allowing gamers across the UK to experience the thrill of racing on the PS5. With its engaging gameplay and stunning colour palette, Forza Horizon 5 is an absolute must-play for any gaming enthusiast in the UK.
As the UK gaming market continues to grow, Forza Horizon 5 is poised to remain a top contender, with its unique blend of speed and style. The game’s behaviour has been praised by critics and gamers alike, making it an excellent addition to any gaming collection.
Forza Horizon 5’s success has also sparked a heated debate about the future of Xbox exclusives, with many questioning whether the company will return to its exclusive roots. However, one thing is certain – Forza Horizon 5 has cemented its place as a UK gaming phenomenon, and its impact will be felt for years to come.
The game’s stunning visuals and captivating gameplay have made it a favourite among UK gamers, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Forza Horizon 5 will remain a benchmark for excellence, and its influence will be seen in many future gaming titles.
In conclusion, Forza Horizon 5 has become a household name in the UK gaming scene, and its success is a testament to the power of exceptional gameplay and stunning visuals. As the gaming community continues to grow, Forza Horizon 5 will remain a beloved classic, and its impact will be felt for generations to come.
Expansion of Freely ushers in a new era for modern free-to-air television
Millions of UK households are now able to access a premium-style TV experience at no extra cost as Freely’s latest rollout brings the platform to a far wider range of televisions. The update represents one of the most significant shifts in British free-to-air broadcasting in years, offering modern features traditionally associated with paid services — all delivered over broadband.
Freely, launched in 2024 by Everyone TV and backed by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5, was created to bring live channels and on-demand content together in a single, streamlined experience. Unlike Freeview or Freesat, which rely on aerial or satellite signals, Freely uses an internet connection, opening the door for a more flexible and feature-rich alternative.
Initially, the platform was limited to specific new smart TVs equipped with Freely software. That barrier has now been removed through the arrival of devices such as the Netgem Pleio, a plug-in streaming box that allows almost any TV with an HDMI port to run Freely. This upgrade makes the service accessible to households that previously would have needed to replace their television to gain access.
The new hardware has been a game-changer for viewers who want modern TV features without committing to subscription-based platforms. The Pleio offers Freely’s full interface but also acts as a complete streaming hub, supporting apps like Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+. It even provides optional add-ons and cloud gaming, transforming older televisions into smart, multi-purpose entertainment centres.
By expanding access through external devices, Freely provides households with a credible alternative to paid TV packages. Viewers can enjoy a premium-style experience — a unified guide, easy navigation, pause and restart features, and integrated catch-up services — while paying nothing beyond broadband and the standard TV licence. This positions Freely as a strong competitor in the increasingly crowded streaming landscape.
The platform’s internet-first design also benefits households with unreliable aerial reception or those living in buildings where installing equipment like satellite dishes is impractical. With Freely, these limitations disappear, giving more homes dependable access to live and on-demand television without technical complexity.
Freely’s rollout also aligns with broader industry trends as broadcasters adapt to changing viewer habits. With more people choosing streaming over traditional broadcast methods, the UK’s main public service broadcasters are leveraging Freely to ensure free-to-air content remains widely accessible in a digital-first environment.
As support expands across additional hardware and smart TV platforms, Freely is expected to grow further in the coming years. Broadcasters are continuing to add new channels, and plans for future upgrades aim to improve content discovery and bring even more services under one roof.
For UK households seeking affordability without sacrificing modern convenience, Freely’s expanded availability marks a pivotal moment. With premium-style features made accessible to nearly any TV, the service is reshaping expectations of what free-to-air television can offer — and bringing a high-quality experience within reach for millions.
Google announced the Fitbit Edge this week as the newest addition to its wearable lineup. Although it does not carry the Charge name, the design and price point position it as the spiritual successor to the Fitbit Charge 6. At £159 or $179 the Edge looks more like a Pixel Watch 5 with a slimmer profile and a brighter AMOLED display.
What the Fitbit Edge gets wrong
When comparing the Edge to the Charge 6, three notable omissions stand out. These gaps could be deal‑breakers for users who expect the same level of functionality from a higher‑priced device.
Missing NFC and Google Wallet support
The Fitbit Charge 6 included built‑in NFC, allowing users to make contactless payments with Google Wallet straight from their wrist. The Edge, however, ships without NFC hardware, meaning the convenient tap‑to‑pay feature is unavailable. For anyone accustomed to paying for coffee or transit without pulling out a phone, this regression feels like a step backwards.
No stress‑tracking capabilities
Stress monitoring has become a standard wellness metric on many modern trackers, including the Fitbit Charge 6. The Edge’s specifications and the Google Store description make no mention of any stress‑tracking sensor or algorithm. Users who rely on real‑time stress scores to manage their daily workload may find the Edge lacking.
Google Maps still listed as ‘coming soon’
Another curious omission is the absence of Google Maps at launch. The Edge spec sheet notes that Maps is ‘coming soon’, yet the Charge 6 received full map integration three years ago. Without native navigation, users lose a handy alternative to pulling out a phone in crowded public spaces.
What the Fitbit Edge adds
Despite these gaps, the Edge introduces several upgrades that could appeal to fitness enthusiasts. It carries an IP68 rating in addition to a 5ATM water resistance, making it safe for swimming and even submersion in dust‑filled environments. New health tools include Gemini for fitness, cardio load and target cardio load metrics, real‑time visual guidance during workouts, and live in‑workout metrics displayed on the device and in the Fitbit app.
Additional features such as an altimeter for floors climbed, monthly blood pressure trends, monthly insulin resistance trends (available with a Google Health Premium subscription), a Morning Brief summary, quick replies, and a gyroscope round out the experience. These enhancements aim to position the Edge as a more comprehensive health hub than the older Charge 6.
How it stacks up against competitors
When placed next to rivals like the Apple Watch Series 10 or the Samsung Galaxy S25 smartwatch, the Edge’s lack of NFC and Maps may put it at a disadvantage. Both the Apple Watch Series 10 and Samsung Galaxy S25 offer seamless payment integration and built‑in navigation, features that many consumers now consider essential.
Should you buy the Fitbit Edge?
If NFC payments, stress monitoring, and immediate map access are non‑negotiable for you, the Fitbit Edge may feel like a compromise despite its lower price than some premium smartwatches. However, if you value the new fitness analytics, robust water resistance, and are willing to wait for Maps to roll out, the Edge presents a solid option within Google’s ecosystem.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to which features matter most to your daily routine. The Edge bridges the gap between a basic tracker and a full‑featured smartwatch, but it does so with a few critical pieces still missing.
Consistent Performance Impresses Users Buyers who have spent the first 30 days with the OPPO F29 Pro report steady and reliable performance. Whether it’s daily multitasking, browsing, or streaming, the phone handles everything smoothly without noticeable lag. This consistency is helping users build trust in the device as their daily driver.
Battery Life Meets Expectations One of the most praised features during the first month is the phone’s 6000mAh battery. Users say it easily lasts a full day on a single charge, even with moderate to heavy usage. The 80W fast charging feature also gets positive remarks for quickly bringing the phone back to full power, reducing waiting time significantly.
Durability Proves Valuable In Real Life Many buyers appreciate the rugged design that includes military-grade build quality and IP69 dust and water resistance. This durability offers peace of mind, especially for those who use their phone outdoors or in environments where damage risk is higher.
Display And Design Receive Positive Feedback The 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate is another highlight for users. It provides vibrant colors and smooth visuals, making video watching and gaming enjoyable. The phone’s ergonomic design also gets praise for fitting comfortably in the hand.
Areas For Improvement Noted By Some While most reviews are positive, a few users have mentioned that the camera performance could be better in low-light conditions. However, this has not significantly impacted overall satisfaction, as the phone excels in other essential areas.
Overall Satisfaction And Recommendation After a full month of use, many buyers say they are happy with their purchase. The OPPO F29 Pro offers a great balance of battery life, performance, and durability, making it a dependable mid-range smartphone. Positive word-of-mouth from these users is encouraging others to consider the phone.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice For The First Month And Beyond The first 30 days with the OPPO F29 Pro suggest that it is a reliable and practical phone for most users. Its strong battery, smooth performance, and durable build make it a smart investment for those seeking a balanced smartphone experience.
Many USA buyers who have started using the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic report that the design feels premium. They often mention the stainless steel body, the rotating bezel, and the build quality, saying it feels more like a luxury watch than a typical fitness tracker. The aesthetic seems to appeal to those who want style with substance.
Comfort is a recurring positive. Despite its size and weight, several users say the watch sits well on the wrist, even during workouts or sleep. The new straps and hybrid lug system are praised for being more comfortable and easy to change than older models. Some mention it takes a little time to get used to the weight, but once it’s on, it’s hardly noticed.
Performance, especially in day-to-day use, gets strong marks. Apps open more smoothly, steps and health metrics are tracked accurately, and the screen brightness gets high enough that outdoor visibility isn’t an issue. The rotating bezel is a favorite for many — people like the tactile feel and that it reduces accidental screen touches.
Battery life has received mixed but generally positive feedback. With LTE off and minimal always-on usage, many users report getting about two days out of a charge. With more intensive use (continuously tracking workouts, using LTE, notifications etc.), that drops closer to one day. Several say this is an improvement over their previous Samsung watches.
There are some complaints though. A few users wish the display were slightly larger or showed more usable screen area relative to the case. Others mention that certain sensors (such as SpO2) occasionally report less reliable data, especially during sleep tracking. Also, some find the band material or clasp not quite as high quality as expected given the price.
Overall, early buyers in the USA seem impressed. The Watch8 Classic delivers a strong blend of style, features, and performance. For those willing to accept some compromises (battery under heavy load, sensor quirks), this model is shaping up to be one of Samsung’s more polished smartwatch releases.
Final Fantasy XIV Expands to Nintendo Switch 2 in the UK
Final Fantasy XIV is finally making its way to the Nintendo Switch 2 in the UK, with a release date set for August 2026. This exciting news was revealed by Naoki Yoshida during the Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival 2026 in Anaheim. The sixth expansion for the game, Evercold, is also on the horizon, scheduled to arrive in January 2027.
The announcement has sent shockwaves of excitement throughout the gaming community, with fans eagerly anticipating the opportunity to experience the popular MMO on the Nintendo Switch 2. The Evercold expansion promises to bring new and thrilling content to the game, further enhancing the overall gaming experience.
The Nintendo Switch 2 version of Final Fantasy XIV is expected to deliver the same high-quality gameplay as its counterparts, with stunning visuals and seamless gameplay. The UK launch is a significant milestone for the game, marking its expansion into new territories and introducing the game to a new audience.
With the release of the Evercold expansion in January 2027, players can look forward to new challenges, quests, and storylines. The expansion will undoubtedly breathe new life into the game, attracting both new and veteran players alike. As the gaming community awaits the launch of Final Fantasy XIV on the Nintendo Switch 2, anticipation is building, and expectations are high.
The combination of the Nintendo Switch 2’s portability and Final Fantasy XIV’s engaging gameplay is set to revolutionise the gaming experience in the UK. Players will be able to enjoy the game on-the-go, exploring the vast virtual world and interacting with fellow players. The UK launch of Final Fantasy XIV on the Nintendo Switch 2 is a significant event in the gaming calendar, and fans are eagerly counting down the days until its release.
In conclusion, the upcoming release of Final Fantasy XIV on the Nintendo Switch 2 in the UK is a major development for the gaming industry. With its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and new expansion on the horizon, the game is poised to capture the hearts of gamers across the UK. As the launch date approaches, excitement is building, and fans are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to experience the game on the Nintendo Switch 2.
The Fitbit Edge is Google’s newest mainline fitness tracker, positioned as the spiritual successor to the Fitbit Charge 6 and a more affordable alternative to the Pixel Watch 5. With an oval‑shaped display, on‑wrist access to Google Health Coach and a claimed seven‑day battery life, the Edge aims to bridge the gap between screenless trackers like the Fitbit Air and full‑featured smartwatches such as the Apple Watch Series 10.
Design and Display
Visually the Edge resembles a slightly squashed Pixel Watch 5. The chassis adopts an oval silhouette, while the slim bezel frames a modest colour touchscreen. Google offers four colourways that match the Pixel 11 Pro lineup – Obsidian, Olive, Fog and Canyon – plus a limited Steph Curry edition that blends grey and orange. The design language mirrors the aesthetic of the Samsung Galaxy S25’s sleek finish, giving the tracker a premium feel without the price of a flagship phone.
Software and Health Features
What sets the Edge apart from the Fitbit Air is its full colour display and deeper integration with Google Health. Users can converse with the Google Health Coach directly from the wrist, creating personalised workout plans without reaching for a phone. The Health Coach feature requires a Google Health Premium subscription, currently priced at $9.99 per month.
In addition to step counting, heart‑rate monitoring and sleep tracking, the Edge supports real‑time notifications, music controls and basic workout metrics. However, it lacks NFC for Google Pay and does not include stress‑level monitoring, two features that were present on the Charge 6.
Battery Life and Performance
Google advertises up to seven days of battery life on a single charge. In practice, the display will consume more power than the screenless Fitbit Air, but the claim is comparable to the battery endurance of the Pixel Watch 5, which typically lasts around 48 hours in our tests.
Pricing and Availability
The Fitbit Edge launches on 27 October with a starting price of $179.99 (or £159.99). The Steph Curry edition is priced at $219.99 (or £189.99). Pre‑orders opened on 12 October, the same day the device was unveiled.
How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
When compared with the Apple Watch Series 10, the Edge offers a more limited app ecosystem but a longer battery life and a lower price point. Against the Samsung Galaxy S25’s wearable ecosystem, the Edge provides tighter integration with Google services but misses out on NFC payments that Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 6 supports. For iPad Air M2 users, the Edge can sync fitness data via the Google Fit app, allowing a seamless view of health metrics on a larger screen.
Connectivity and Sensors
The Edge relies on Bluetooth 5.2 for syncing with Android smartphones and the Google Fit app. It includes a 3‑axis accelerometer, optical heart‑rate sensor and SpO2 monitor, delivering data comparable to the sensors found in the Apple Watch Series 10 and Samsung Galaxy S25’s wearable companion. However, the lack of built‑in GPS means users must carry a phone for accurate distance tracking during outdoor runs.
Future Software Updates
Google has confirmed that Google Maps will arrive in a future firmware update, expanding the Edge’s utility for navigation. Additional health features, such as stress monitoring, may also be introduced later, narrowing the gap with the Fitbit Charge 6. Users can expect regular updates through the Google Play Services platform, similar to the update cadence of the Pixel Watch 5.
Final Thoughts
The Fitbit Edge is a solid mid‑range tracker for users who want a colour display, Google Health Coach access and a week‑long battery life without paying smartwatch prices. Its missing NFC and stress tracking may deter some, but the device still fills a niche between the budget‑friendly Fitbit Air and premium wearables like the Pixel Watch 5, Apple Watch Series 10 or Samsung Galaxy S25 accessories.
In this post we’re going to be doing an unboxing and I’m going to give my first impressions on the Galaxy s25 Ultra this phone is available for pre-order at the time of this post. If you want to check it out for yourself the retail price is $1300 comes in seven different colors.
We have black gray silver and this blue color we’re going to be checking out here today and there’s three exclusive colors pink gold jet black and Jade green. There’s three different configurations to choose from we have 256 GB storage standard 512 GB and up to 1 terb of storage, And all these models come packed with 12 GB of RAM shout out to Samsung for sending out.
We get in the box
We get a type- c to type-c charging cable, We get a little bit of paperwork and We have a SIM ejection tool but that’s everything inside. Let’s go ahead and check out the star of the show here the Galaxy s25 Ultra First Impressions immediately add the packaging even though this is the blue color in some angles like my top down shot here. It definitely looks gray but if you put it into different lighting conditions. We also have some physical refinements going on here compared to last year’s s24 Ultra the most notable change here is that we are getting rounded Corners now on this s25 Ultra.
That conventional boxy design, That we took over from the Galaxy Notes and made their way over to the S Series. It still overall does have that boxy appearance to it. If you compare this to and s24 from last year, You can see much more rounded corners on those devices. They were on last year’s s24 but they’re flattened out here now it is worth mentioning that we still do have a rounded feel on the back of this s25 Ultra so you have a nice rounded feeling in the back. The rounded Corners to comp it and having lighter weight makes this feel like a much more.
It is taking a quick physical tour now on the left side we have our 5G antenna on the right. We have our volume rockers and our power button on the top. if you want to however there is no micro SD expansion. we have our type-c Port capable of 45 w super fast charge. All the way over here on the left love the S Pen functionality with this overall physically seems to feel and look very similar to the previous sens might have a little bit different of a tip at the top.
Display and bezels of Galaxy s25 Ultra
Now taking our first look at the 6.9 in 1440p 120htz AMOLED display we do have a little bit of a larger display. Now on this s25 Ultra compared to The s24 from last year. We do have what looks like an entirely flat display here on this s25 Ultra so no Edge display going on here and as far as the Antireflectivity. It looks to be the same on this s25 as it was on last year’s s24 but with all that out of the way I’m going to go ahead put my information in this phone use it for the day and I’ll come back with my final First Impressions on the Galaxy s25 Ultra all right so it’s been a full day.
Now since I first started using this s25 Ultra I’m definitely ready to share some of my first impressions with you guys so getting into the phone the Biometrics we have an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner this gets you.Then we also have the face recognition on top either way it gets you into your phone super quick.
Samsung S 25 Ultra
Once you’re in you’ll be greeted by the new 6.9 in display I’ve been really enjoying this display my first day of usage actually a little bit more over the s24 ultra to my surprise, I think mainly because this s25 Ultra is slim down a little more on the sides. We do have that slight bezel reduction, But overall we have what feels like a little bit more compact of a phone with still a very large display.
It just makes this s25 Ultra a lot more enjoyable to use in your average everyday usage, Using it for extended periods of time watching YouTube on it. I’ve noticed go really well with these physical refinements are the software refinements with one ui7 this has been a very clean software, So for really the only differences. You have are that you swipe down from the top to get to your notifications then you swipe down from the top right corner to access your quick settings similar to what we’ve had on, I phones for a while now but overall, The performance on this has been extremely smooth opening all your applications.
Battery on this one and charge timing
Battery UI 7, So we have a little bit of some updated icons and things too really like how smooth and fluid it is initially and something else. That has also been noticeably improved on this s25 Ultra is the battery life even though we have the same capacity of 5,000 milliamp hours as we had on last year’s s24 Ultra. I am getting noticeably more battery life on this s25 Ultra.
Some gaming testing for about a half an hour doing a fair amount of web browsing writing some notes and Samsung Notes playing around with some of the AI features in the gallery. If you’re doing basic things just browsing on YouTube and just going on the news and social media apps you are going to get phenomenal battery life. So I’m definitely excited to test out this battery further in the next couple of days.
A look at the cameras around back of Samsung S 25 Ultra
Taking a look at the cameras around back we have the same setup here as what we had on last year’s s24 Ultra the only difference now is on that Ultra wide lens. We now have a 50 megapixel option instead of of just the 12 megapixel but, overall by far this is Samsung’s most versatile camera system on any of their phones we have so many options here with the zoom, we have that ultrawide which can now go up to that 50 megapixel option.
We also have a two times which is new now on this s25 Ultra and then the same as we had before the three times Optical the new five times Optical, The 10 times which is technically a digital but gives you near Optical quality of previous Ultra phones and Here’s a look at the 30 times and 100 times zoom in action, So overall a ton of Versatility on this camera as far as all the different zoom lenses. Expected the 200 MP mode is giving me some really good results in my usage. So picture my puppy, Here you can zoom in really close you still have a ton of detail on your photos, So really liking the 200 MP mode initially looking at the video side of things and my initial 4K 60 filming looks really smooth here.
I just wanted to see the front-facing camera in addition to that rear camera and this is just one of many new Galaxy AI features is coming to this phone. whatever the newest device is Samsung’s going to be putting the newest Galaxy AI features into it but some of these have felt genuinely useful in my first day of use and as far as other AI functionality on this phone.
I want to address Google Gemini since this was also pushed heavily at the Samsung event. But the reality of this new Gemini functionality and features and capabilities is that in 6 months. And you’re going to have to start paying for some of the advanced features. I definitely don’t like that so this is set up by default with the long press on your phone. If you go into your settings, you can change this to Bixby and Bixby has gotten so much hate over the years but it’s actually been genuinely useful for me.
The Brightness of Samsung S 25 Ultra
The brightness to 50% it can do some of these on device features which I know that’s very basic but that simple task is something I can’t do with Gemini so if I switch back to the Gemini assistant change brightness to 50% so it says I can’t help with that. You’re going to be paying for something that can’t help you with simple functionalities. I also noticed that Bixby is better at some tasks initially compared to the Gemini assistant write an email to SS inquiries at gmail.
What’s the subject of your email checking in what would you like to say in your email hey how are things going just wanted to check in and hope to talk to you soon got it please review the drafted email and hit send when you’re ready so this opens it up on its own writes everything out that you asked for beta works really well.
I’m liking Bixby for some of these on device things. if I switch back to Gemini and try that same thing write an email to SS inqueries ” Gmail ” sure here is an email to but fact inquiries see, So it just kind of does its own thing, It’s just writing a general email which this is not even what I wanted at all so even though the Gemini is being heavily pressed in the initial coverage here personally the Bixby assistant has been better for me.
Comparison to the other Ultra devices
My first day of usage with the Slimmer bedels just the Slimmer overall feel and form factor of the phone I usually end up using the plus series of these S Series phones for the past few years, Because it is that bit smaller and lesser weight but now that we have that lighter weight on this Ultra model you’re getting best of both worlds situation here with a larger display and what feels like a very light weight phone in the hand in comparison to the other Ultra devices really the only downside to this s25 Ultra is we no longer.
Have the Bluetooth functionality of the S Pen it’s only going to be your onscreen things. You can go into things and use this kind of mouse overall feature for a lot of things with the pen, even though it doesn’t have the Bluetooth it really just mainly affects you being able to take pictures with this remotely which you can just put your hand up to take pictures with Samsung software.
The OPPO F29 Pro is making a stronger impact than many expected, with early users sharing surprisingly positive first impressions. From its refined design to smooth everyday performance, the phone is proving to be more than just another mid-range release. Buyers are noticing the thoughtful upgrades and overall polish that set it apart from typical budget-friendly smartphones.
Sleek Design And Tough Build Quality
Right from the first unboxing, users are impressed by how the OPPO F29 Pro looks and feels. The matte finish adds a premium touch, while the phone’s slim profile fits comfortably in hand. Beyond looks, the IP69 rating and 360° Armor Body give it an edge in durability, offering water, dust, and impact resistance that’s rare in this price range. First-time users often highlight the build quality as a major positive surprise.
Display And Performance Feel Surprisingly Premium
The 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate is another area where expectations are exceeded. Whether it’s scrolling through apps, watching videos, or casual gaming, the visual experience feels smooth and sharp.
Backed by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor and 8GB RAM, early users say the phone handles multitasking better than expected. It boots quickly, switches between apps smoothly, and rarely stutters during daily use.
Battery Life That Instantly Wins Users Over
One of the most appreciated aspects during the first few days of use is battery performance. The 6000mAh battery, supported by 80W fast charging, provides all-day power even with moderate to heavy use. Many users report going nearly two full days before needing a recharge, which is a pleasant surprise for those upgrading from phones with smaller battery capacity.
Camera Is Simple Yet Effective
While not marketed as a camera-centric device, the 50MP dual rear camera setup delivers solid results in good lighting. Early feedback shows satisfaction with how the phone handles everyday photos and videos. It may not compete with flagship sensors, but users are pleased with the consistency and clarity of shots straight out of the box.
First Few Days Leave A Strong Impression
In just the first few days of use, the OPPO F29 Pro manages to exceed many buyers’ expectations. Its refined design, smooth operation, and excellent battery life leave a positive early impression. For users who weren’t expecting much beyond the basics, the phone has quickly proven it has more to offer.
Final Word On Initial Reactions
Overall, the OPPO F29 Pro is making a better first impression than anticipated. It brings a clean and reliable experience with just the right mix of power, style, and durability. For anyone on the fence, early user reactions suggest this could be one of OPPO’s most quietly impressive mid-range devices yet.
