The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro introduces cellular and satellite messaging features for $100 more, enhancing safety and connectivity, but its high price and bulky design may limit widespread adoption across Garmin's lineup. The article advocates for expanding these features to more models, despite engineering challenges and size constraints, to benefit outdoor enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Samsung's website briefly confirmed the upcoming "Galaxy Watch Ultra," including an LTE model and a 47mm size, before taking down the support page. This confirms the branding and some specifications of the new smartwatch, which has been the subject of numerous leaks. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is expected to feature a unique design and a bigger battery.
Starlink, a satellite telecommunications service under SpaceX, plans to offer global LTE coverage accessible from mobile devices by 2025, potentially revolutionizing internet access. The new "Direct to Cell" technology will operate as "cell towers in space" and provide satellite connectivity through partnerships with telecom operators. However, concerns have been raised over Elon Musk's influence and control over the technology's deployment, given his ownership and voting rights in SpaceX, highlighting potential implications for global communications.
Walmart is offering the LTE-enabled Apple Watch Series 8 for $299.99, $200 off its original price, with features including EKGs, menstrual cycle tracking, irregular heartbeat alerts, fall detection, and emergency calling. Additionally, Meross smart plugs are available at discounted prices on Amazon, providing basic smarts to devices and supporting various smart home ecosystems. Other discounted gadgets include the second-gen Apple Pencil, Amazon's fourth-gen Echo, Anker's 30-watt single USB-C charger, 8BitDo's Retro Mechanical Keyboard, and a set of three Blink Mini home security cameras.
If you're unable to use a Wi-Fi connection for your security camera, there are alternative options available. These include using an LTE/cellular security camera, installing a PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera, finding a security camera with local storage, or using a traditional DVR/DVR security system. Connecting to a hotspot on a phone or laptop is not a sustainable fix.
Google is offering a promotion where customers who purchase the Pixel Watch 2 LTE from the Google Store can receive two free years of Fi data service. The offer includes 250MB per month of 4G data before throttling to 3G and is valid only in the US. The Pixel Watch 2 is currently discounted, and customers must activate the data offer within 60 days of shipping to benefit from the full two years of service. The promotion runs until January 31, 2024, and trade-ins are available with values of up to $110. Additionally, Google has reduced the prices of various Pixel Watch bands.
Google has started rolling out the first Wear OS 4 update to the Pixel Watch series, beginning with the LTE variant of the Pixel Watch 2. The update includes the November 2023 security patch and bug fixes. However, it is unclear why the Wi-Fi version of the Pixel Watch 2 and last year's device are not receiving the update simultaneously. Users can manually sideload the update on the Pixel Watch 2 using a new cable, and some have reported charging issues and poor battery life on the device.
An unannounced Samsung tablet, the Galaxy Tab A9, has been discovered on sale at the company's online shop in Guatemala. The listing includes official renders of the tablet, but lacks specifications and other details. Priced at 1,499 Quetzal (approximately $191), the Galaxy Tab A9 LTE is rumored to feature a MediaTek Helio G99 chip, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and an 8.7-inch LCD. While the listing seems premature, it is possible that Samsung intentionally released the device quietly and may expand its availability to other markets.
Samsung's Galaxy Watch 6 series has been spotted in the FCC database, indicating that the launch is getting closer. The listings confirm the presence of LTE support in some models, suggesting that cellular variants will be available. The watches are expected to come with the One UI 5 Watch skin and larger batteries, and leaks suggest a Classic model with a rotating bezel. Samsung is expected to host an Unpacked launch in July, where the Galaxy Watch 6 series is likely to be revealed.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro LTE variant is on sale for $1 off its all-time low price, making it a great gift option for Father's Day. The smartwatch offers impressive features and customizable options through One UI Watch 4.5, including Google Play Store integration and fitness tracking capabilities. The deal also includes three free months of Amazon Music Unlimited.
Samsung has released a firmware update for the LTE variants of the Galaxy Watch 5 series, bringing the skin temperature-based cycle tracking feature to Samsung Health. The update also includes improved system stability and reliability, as well as a new security patch. The firmware is currently being rolled out in Europe and other markets.
The LTE version of the Pixel Watch is now available for $329.99, a $70 discount from its original price, until May 14. The Wi-Fi version is also on sale for $299.99. The Active Band for the Pixel Watch is $10 off and available in five colors. Other deals include the Pixel Buds Pro for $159.99 and the 2nd-gen Pixel Stand for $59.99.
Samsung has released the May 2023 security update for the LTE and 5G versions of the Galaxy Note 20 and Galaxy Note 20 Ultra in some Latin American countries, with firmware versions N98xFXXS6HWE1 and N98xBXXS6HWE2 respectively. The update fixes over 70 security flaws and may include general bug fixes and device stability improvements. Users can download the update through Settings or manually flash it.
Amazon is offering extra savings on the Pixel Watch during Google's Spring Sale, with discounts on LTE models including $67 off the Polished Silver LTE version with the Charcoal band and £100 off the Champagne and Hazel LTE model on Amazon UK. These deals are official Google Store listings and come with the same guarantees as buying from an authorized retailer.
