At many of last year’s tech shows, we got a preview of what was on the horizon for 2014. Well, now that the first quarter of the year has passed, it’s time to check in on the 2014 technology updates.
Wearable Tech
This has been a major point of focus for manufacturers around the world this past year. The more we make use of technology to help with our day-to-day activities, the more advances we see with wearable technology. Advances are being made each day, but let's take a look at some of the wearable tech options that are available to us now.
Qualcomm Toq Smartwatch
This creation is heralded among techies for its use of Mirasol display technology. This revolutionary technology makes for excellent outdoor visibility. Regardless of the angle, you can read the face of the Qualcomm Toq. As with all technology there are some hiccups along the way, some have said that they have difficulty trying to use the watch. Considering that the device is supposed to eliminate the need for you to take your phone out of your pocket, the interface can be clunky and hard to navigate. You could save time by taking your phone out in the time it would take to use the Toq.
Samsung Galaxy Gear
This smartwatch from Samsung features awesome customization options, like different colored bands and faceplates to match your personality. Also, the Samsung Gear’s battery lasts for about 2 days when used regularly, which is more than other smartwatches. From what we’re hearing, the only problem with the Gear is that it only works with Samsung devices. The Gear will tell you that you have a device notification, but it doesn’t offer any additional information. Stay tuned to see if Samsung releases any updates that make the experience a bit more convenient.
Google Glass XE
The Xplorer Edition of Google Glasses is an innovative take on notifications. The ocular creation adds a heads-up display to real life. Your iOS and Android notifications appear instantly, and in the upper right corner of your field of vision, so staying updated is a breeze. The only downsides to Glass would be its limited battery life, and its hefty price tag, which weighs in at about $1,500. Let’s hope that the cost goes down once the consumer edition of Google Glass is released.
Smartphones
Sony Xperia Z2
With a follow-up to the Sony Xperia Z, the Z2 boasts the same water resistant case as its predecessor. This time around, the Sony smartphone makes use of a side panel, which allows for integration with a charging dock. The screen size has been enlarged without increasing the overall size of the phone, and even features a full 1080p display. With only 6 months between the release of the Z and the Z2 however, there have not been many major improvements in its software features.
HTC One (M8)
HTC’s flagship phone has also gotten a facelift with a few new features. Highly similar to the original HTC One, the form factor of this new device has been contoured on the edges, making for a very comfortable, natural feel to the device. This is hindered, though, by the height of the M8. A new duo camera system has been implemented in the M8, which allows you to refocus on different parts of images after they’ve already been captured. The One (M8) retains its metal finish, and now features a lightning-quick Snapdragon 801 processor.
Samsung Galaxy S5
This iteration of the Galaxy has a slightly larger screen, measuring in at 5.1 inches, and features some HDR photo processing that are a welcome addition to the Samsung Galaxy product line. Regarding performance, actions happen a bit more smoothly, but not much more quickly. Water resistance is another feature we’re glad to have this time around with Samsung, along with a fingerprint sensor. Oh, and did we mention that there is a heart rate monitor? It will be interesting to see how developers use this feature in applications, but it’s no doubt that this will be heavily integrated with their Samsung Gear smartwatch.
These are just a few of the major technology releases of Q1 2014. Be sure to check in for the latest news on all of the hottest products and devices.
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