Onto their fourth generation of lapdock now, and keeping alive the Continuum vision, NexDock is persevering through pandemics, industry changes, and component shortages. This is the NexDock 360, just in for review, a Continuum/DeX (etc.) lapdock that adds an extra twist to 2020's NexDock Touch. Here's my first impressions and hands-on gallery, with both Lumia and Samsung as host phones, the full review will follow.
Another day, another new smartphone gallery, this time getting going with the Fairphone 4, the very latest from the eco-conscious Dutch company. As with the old Lumias, you get to replace the battery - and indeed almost everything else, with just a simple screwdriver - plus the specs are mid-range comparable for 2021. See also my previous Fairphone 4 head to head, plus there will be a full review on the way in a week or so.
The Duo 2 is in for review, and in timely fashion this year. Expect a few review parts and at least one imaging comparison (given the triple camera upgrade from last year's potato), but in the meantime here's our traditional image gallery, covering the unboxing and first impressions.
View additional galleries here.
In AAWP Insight #153, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we talk through a week's worth of news. First up is some information on the latest Insider Build (10536) of Windows 10 Mobile. We also look forward to October 6th, which is the anticipated announcement day for Microsoft's new premium smartphones (and some other devices), chat around some updates to the Photos app (and related improvement in the imaging flow for Windows 10 Mobile), before finishing with a discussion about "long press", "force touch"/"3D touch" in the light of Apple's iPhone 6s event.
In AAWP Insight #152, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we round up ten days worth of news and views. Topics covered include a series of Windows 10 Mobile app updates (Messaging Skype Beta, .NET runtime, Photos), the recent BBC iPlayer update, the Acer Jade Primo and some thoughts on Continuum, and some comments on phase 1 on the Windows 10 Mobile roll out. In the middle, we also find time to grumble about quality assurance issues related to the Microsoft app Store.
In AAWP Insight #151, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we talk about Windows 10 Mobile performance on lower end devices (build 10512), Windows 10 Mobile compatible phones (and upgrading low storage devices), and the leak of upcoming flagships (Cityman and Talkman). We also touch on ARCHOS' recently announced Windows 10 Mobile device and Steve's most recent camera head to head (Moto X Play versus Lumia 930).
In AAWP Insight #150, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we cover a number of topics including the latest Insider release of Windows 10 Mobile (Build 10512), a tutorial of how to do the upgrade (covering some useful tips and caveats to be aware of), and how Windows 10 Mobile is growing up. We also talk around a number of other recent content items, such as Steve's recent review of Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard.
For our weekly podcast, with Rafe temporarily out of action (he'll be back next week!), I recruit long time Windows Phone enthusiast Stephen Quin to have a chat about some of the recent features and stories. Thanks to Stephen for his time and to you the listener for your patience! Stories covered include Windows Phone competing at the budget end of the market and the 'so near so far' issue of the Lumia 1520....
In an extra length AAWP Insight #148, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we start with a wide ranging discussion around Microsoft's Q2 results (8.4 million Lumia phones sold, up 10% year on year) and some thoughts on what comes next. The second part of the podcast is devoted to answering a number of listener questions, ranging from thoughts on Lumia 1320 performance to whether (in the future) other manufacturers will fill the gaps left behind in the Lumia line.
In AAWP Insight #147, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we start by considering how many existing device owners will upgrade to Windows 10 Mobile (and think about some of the obstacles and motivations). Other topics include our experiences with the latest build of Windows 10 Mobile (including praise for the transparency on IAPs), problems with video streams in the BBC iPlayer app (and implications for testing apps), and a series of app picks.
In AAWP Insight #146, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we talk through the implications of Microsoft's recently announced job cuts to the Devices Group and the associated $7.8 billion write down linked to the acquisition of Nokia's Devices and Services business. We also cover the latest Windows 10 Mobile Build (10166) and highlight Steve's recent investigation of Windows 10 Mobile's performance on different processor/RAM configurations (from Lumia 520 to 1520).
In AAWP Insight #145, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we open by responding to a listener question around the BBC's support of Windows Phone (apps). Our second major topic is a discussion around Build 10149 of Windows 10 Mobile, which leads to a follow on topic around RAM configuration and performance. We also cover the rebrand of Xbox Music and Xbox Video to Groove and Movies & TV, trail some off-road mapping apps, and pick out two apps that have caught our attention.
In AAWP Insight #144, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we open with some commentary on the departure, from Microsoft, of Stephen Elop and Jo Harlow. We proceed through a number of news items including a third party Glastonbury app, a software update to fix "Periodic reboot" issues, new Windows 10 Mobile devices from Freetel, and the latest firmware update for Microsoft Band. Our two main discussion topics are on the state of Windows 10 Mobile readiness and Steve's gig video capture comparison feature.
In AAWP Insight #143, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we open proceedings by discussing the arrival, after a month long hiatus, of Build 10136 Insiders Preview of Windows 10 Mobile, covering the main new features, and wondering how stable it is this time round. Other topics covered by the podcast include an update around Facebook and personal data sync, some thoughts on Microsoft's new portable battery chargers, and a debate around whether 32GB storage is enough in a phone.
In AAWP Insight #142, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we open the podcast by discussing the Facebook Connect API changes, how Microsoft services are effected, and any impact on the end user. We also highlight the latest HERE Maps data update, talk about the withdrawal of Lumia Camera Classic for high end phones, talk about how Cortana can help air travellers, and share some thoughts on Condor's Griffe W1 device.
In AAWP Insight #141, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we amble through a number of topics, from timings on the Windows 10 release (29th July for PCs, later for smartphones) to Microsoft Band questions (and light sabre apps) and related topics. We also discuss news of a firmware update (and excuse to cheer for the Lumia 640), Rafe learns about Steve's adventure dismantling his Lumia 1020, and we're pleased to hear Microsoft is looking to address Store bloat.
In AAWP Insight #140, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we have two main topics, both of which lead to some extended musings and generalised mobile discussion. First up, the news of Phone Companion for Windows 10 (and cross platform Cortana), leads us to think about Microsoft's general approach and the wider way we interact with computing devices. Second, Steve's roundup of voice assistants gives us an opportunity to talk more about voice input and intelligent assistants.
In the extended edition AAWP Insight #139, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we start by highlighting the release of Hyperlapse (and Steve's creative tendencies). Our second main topic is some discussion around the branding of Windows 10 versions and thoughts of the latest Insider build of Windows 10 Mobile (includes access to Office Preview apps). We also take the time to highlight two apps Pocket Casts and Tubecast Pro and talk about the rise of big screen devices.
In the extended edition AAWP Insight #138, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we start by talking about the Lumia 540 Dual SIM, the latest Windows Phone device from Microsoft, which was announced for select markets a few weeks ago. Our second main topic is some discussion around our recent review of the Microsoft Band wearable device. Other topics covered in this episode of the podcast include thoughts on Windows 10 and ecosystem size, plus a number of app picks and related commentary.
In AAWP Insight #137, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we discuss the news out of Microsoft's biggest developer event of the year - BUILD 2015. The topic covered include Windows 10 on 1 billion devices, more on One Windows and Universal apps (which leads to a wider discussion of this topic), the announcement of Continuum for new (forthcoming) phones, the details of iOS and Android apps "running" on Windows 10 Mobile, and Microsoft Edge.
In AAWP Insight #136, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we turn our attention to the Lumia 640, pulling out some highlights from our review coverage of the latest Windows Phone device from Microsoft. We start by talking around the maps situation (HERE) on Windows Phone over the last year, also touching on the recent Maps app preview for Windows 10. We finish with some thoughts from Steve on his recent Lumia 1020 versus Lumia 930 (with LC5/Denim) imaging comparison.
In AAWP Insight #135, hosted by Steve and Rafe, the main focus is on the Microsoft Lumia 640 XL, though we also discuss its sister device, the Lumia 640. We cover our early thoughts on the hardware, make some head-to-head comparisons, and cover the basics on Microsoft UK's marketing plans for the Lumia 640. Also covered in the podcast are some early thoughts on Windows Phone 8.1 Update 2 (new and updated features) and a trailer for a more in depth look at the latest build of Windows 10 for phones.
In AAWP Insight #134, hosted by Steve and Rafe, the discussion nearly all revolves around imaging. Using Steve's HTC M9 and Lumia 930 camera comparison as a starting point, we cover a number of imaging related topics, including flagship performance, the importance of software, and how much the megapixel count matters. We also cover a number of imaging-related app updates (Vine and Lumia Storyteller), and look forward to some detailed coverage of the Lumia 640.
In AAWP Insight #133, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we start by highlighting a few UK deals for Lumia smartphones, which leads to a discussion of pricing and value for smartphones in general. Our main topic of conversation revolves around a comparison between the Lumia 930 and the HTC One M9, but we also find time to cover a few April-1st-related news topics (including Microsoft's latest 'mobile operating system') and to make a number of app recommendations.
In AAWP Insight #132, hosted by Steve and Rafe, our main topic of conversation revolves around the low end Lumia 430 and 435. We talk about the latest addition to Microsoft's Lumia device portfolio, consider the overall state of low end smartphones, and how things have changed over the last few years. We also cover some of the highlights from the WinHEC event in China, and look forward to a flagship comparison next week.
In AAWP Insight #131, hosted by Steve and Rafe, our main topic of conversation revolves around Steve's speculation about the Lumia 940. Rafe looks into his own crystal ball and also tries to predict what some of the changes and additions will be in the next Windows Phone flagship. We also cover the arrival of Microsoft Band in the UK, and finish with some app coverage for Aeries, Audible, and CastCenter.
In AAWP Insight #130, hosted by Steve and Rafe, the main topic of conversation is MWC. We cover the key Windows Phone news, including the launch of the Lumia 640 and 640 XL, Windows 10 Universal Apps previews, a universal Bluetooth keyboard, and new phones from second and third tier manufacturers. Towards the end of the podcast we also touch on the Lumia 435 (in for review), as well as a number of recent app updates.
In AAWP Insight #129, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we start by talking about the newly available Windows 10 Technical Preview for phones. We talk about the specifics of the Insider program, what's in the preview and what's not, and share some first thoughts on the look and feel. Other topics in the podcast include a recap of Steve's review of the Yezz Billy 4, the retirement of Windows Phone "Rooms", and a listener question on the Lumia 735 start screen.
In AAWP Insight #128, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we open with a discussion around the Microsoft-Samsung patent agreement, followed by some thoughts on the updated Office Lens, and the continued roll-out of Lumia Denim. We also talk about the form in which photos should be backed up to OneDrive and consider Lumia Storyteller as an alternative to Photos. There are also quick app mentions for Podcast Lounge, Tweetium, and NPR.
In AAWP Insight #127, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we have further discussion around the Lumia Denim update. Topics covered include availability (and the complexity of variants), a camera comparison with earlier software on the Lumia 930/Icon, and more. We also cover a Snapdragon 810 press release, updates for the Tweetium app, some thoughts on wearables and smart home apps, plus a Table Tennis game recommendation.
In AAWP Insight #126, hosted by Steve and Rafe, the focus is on the arrival of the Lumia Denim (on some high-end devices) and the linked Lumia Camera 5. We discuss the details, work-flow, and (hidden) cost of Rich Capture, when you might want to use 4K moments, and the much improved start-up and shot-to-shot performance. We also cover Microsoft's Q4 financial results (including Lumia device unit volumes) and a number of recent app updates.
In AAWP Insight #125, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we review yesterday's Windows 10 event, with a Windows Phone focus. Topics covered include changes to the Start screen, updates for Action Centre and text input, increased commonality with desktop and tablet Windows, and a run down of the major new "Universal" apps. To finish we highlight some notable app updates and releases for current Windows Phone devices (Dropbox, Spotify, Twitter, and Skype).
In AAWP Insight #124, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we open with a quick look ahead to the much anticipated Windows 10 announcement, before rounding up some Denim updates news. In the middle section of the podcast, we talk about Steve's review of the Yezz Billy 4.7 (good hardware, but with software concerns). We finish by discussing the price of, and the hardware in, Microsoft's two newly announced low end phones: the Lumia 532 and the Lumia 435.
In AAWP Insight #123, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we open with some thoughts on the non-arrival of Lumia Denim and Lumia Camera 5, before going to to talk about a few CES highlights, including the Yezz Billy 5S. Other topics covered in the podcast include the latest AdDuplex stats, the acquisition of MixRadio by LINE, and gold editions of the Lumia 830 and 930. We finish by chatting about our review of the low-end Lumia 535.
In AAWP Insight #122, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we spend the first half of the podcast talking about a number of new app and games releases (Gestures Beta, Candy Crush Saga), as well as some updates to some of our favourite apps (Glance, OneDrive, Netflix). In the middle of the show, we talk about the pricing and positioning of the rumoured Lumia 435. We finish by continuing last week's discussion around imaging and the Samsung Note 4 (compared to various Lumia devices) in the context of Nokia's previous imaging "supremacy".
In AAWP Insight #121, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we kick off by summarising the latest updates to Windows Phone HERE apps (free Drive+ and Transit for all, HERE account switchover), before moving on to highlight the latest DP update and the arrival of Cortana in France, Italy, Germany, and Spain. We also have mentions for a business card friendly Office Lens update, the GFXBench benchmarking tool (comparing hardware generations), Stickman Soccer, and BBC Sport. We finish by talking through Steve's camera comparison feature between the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 and the Lumia 930.
In AAWP Insight #120, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we start with a discussion on the latest low-end entrant to the Windows Phone market - the Iris Win 1 from Lava Mobile. Complementing last week's discussion of the "best" high-end Windows Phone device, we debate which device should take the crown for the "best" low end Windows Phone device. We finish with some commentary on the leaked "Lumia 1030" device, which leads to a discussion on the direction of the next generation imaging flagship.
In AAWP Insight #119, hosted by Steve and Rafe, we start with some commentary on clicking Qi wireless charging pads, before moving to discuss a number of recent and upcoming app updates (Lumia Camera, Photosynth, and more). In the second half of the podcast, we discuss the merits of various Windows Phone devices released in 2014 (and late 2013), with a focus on higher-end phones such as the Lumia 1520, 930, 830, HTC One M8, and Samsung ATIV SE.