This week in tech saw a flood of new devices, and we’ve distilled Engadget’s in-depth reviews to bring you the key takeaways. From Google’s latest AI-powered phone to the next generation of smart glasses and handheld gaming, here’s our Engadget review recap on the gadgets you need to know about.
Engadget’s Pixel 8a Review: AI Smarts Meet Mid-Range Value
First on the list is Google’s new mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 8a. According to Engadget’s review, this is the smartest phone in its price bracket, thanks to Google’s powerful AI software. Features like Magic Eraser and Best Take continue to impress, making professional-grade photo editing accessible to everyone.
The review praises the Pixel 8a‘s vibrant 120Hz OLED display and the flagship-level Tensor G3 chip, which ensures a remarkably smooth user experience. However, Engadget notes that the design, with its prominent bezels, feels somewhat dated when compared to sleeker rivals. Their bottom line: if you value best-in-class AI camera features and a pure Android experience over modern aesthetics, the Pixel 8a offers phenomenal value.
Meta’s Next Ray-Bans: A Glimpse of an AR Future
Engadget is looking ahead to the next generation of Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses, which could be a true game-changer. Citing inside sources, their analysis points to the inclusion of a small, integrated “heads-up display” within the lens. This would allow users to see notifications, navigation, or translations directly in their line of sight.
Engadget frames this as a significant step toward mainstream augmented reality (AR). The review also raises crucial questions about potential battery life limitations and the complex privacy implications of a camera that can display what it sees in real-time. It’s an exciting, albeit slightly unnerving, preview of where wearable technology is headed.
ASUS ROG Ally X Review: The Handheld Gaming PC, Refined
Remember the ASUS ROG Ally, the powerful Windows handheld that challenged the Steam Deck? Its successor, the ROG Ally X, is here, and Engadget reports that it addresses nearly every major criticism of the original.
The most significant upgrade is a doubled battery capacity, solving the biggest pain point for gamers on the move. The ROG Ally X also features a new black design, increased RAM for better performance, and improved ergonomics for more comfortable gaming sessions. Engadget’s take is that while the Ally X isn’t a revolutionary leap, it’s a critical and welcome refinement. For those seeking the ultimate portable PC gaming experience, the ASUS ROG Ally X is poised to be the new champion.
Also Reviewed: Sonos Ace Headphones
In other news, Engadget also dove into the new Sonos Ace headphones. As the company’s first foray into the headphone market, expectations were high. The review confirms they deliver the premium, high-fidelity audio and excellent noise cancellation Sonos is famous for. However, they face stiff competition from established players like Sony and Bose. Engadget concludes that while the Sonos Ace are fantastic headphones, especially for existing Sonos users, they don’t quite dethrone the current market leaders.
