Chih-Hao Kung from ASUS discusses the ROG Phone 8 and Android gaming phones in 2024. They also talk about the cheaper models of Samsung foldables, the rebranding of Nearby Share to QuickShare, and the introduction of generative AI to Maps. The hosts share their experience with the thermometer sensor on the Pixel 8 Pro and recommend using Firefox Focus as a privacy-focused browser.
The ASUS ROG Phone 8 focuses on delivering high-performance gaming features while appealing to a mainstream audience.
Gaming smartphones like the ROG Phone 8 prioritize performance, control, and superior cooling systems for dedicated gamers.
As the market for gaming smartphones grows, ASUS aims to provide users with an optimal gaming experience without compromising everyday smartphone features.
Samsung Display is exploring cost-effective manufacturing methods for bezels in foldable OLED panels, potentially leading to more affordable foldable phones.
Deep dives
ASUS ROG Phone 8: The Evolution of Gaming Smartphones
The ASUS ROG Phone 8 has evolved from previous models, focusing more on mainstream appeal while still delivering high-performance gaming features. ASUS recognizes the demand for control and performance in gaming smartphones and continues to innovate in this space. As the market for gaming smartphones grows, ASUS aims to provide users with an optimal gaming experience without compromising everyday smartphone features. While regular smartphones may incorporate gaming-centric features, gaming smartphones like the ROG Phone 8 prioritize performance and control, ensuring a superior gaming experience.
The Future of Gaming Smartphones
The demand for gaming smartphones remains strong, with a dedicated user base seeking devices that offer more control, fine-grained performance, and superior cooling systems. Gaming smartphones like the ROG Phone 8 target users who prioritize performance and need more powerful devices to run demanding games. While regular smartphones may incorporate gaming features, the purpose-built design of gaming smartphones caters specifically to gamers who desire greater control, performance, and gaming-centric features. The distinction between gaming smartphones and regular smartphones is evident in their prioritization of certain aspects such as thermals, stability, and battery life.
ASUS Focusing on Mainstream Appeal for the ROG Phone 8
The ASUS ROG Phone 8 represents a shift towards more mainstream appeal while maintaining its status as a gaming smartphone. ASUS recognizes the need to balance gaming features with everyday usability, ensuring that users experience the best of both worlds. As the market for gaming smartphones continues to grow, ASUS aims to meet the needs of users who want more control and fine-grained performance without compromising on smartphone features. While the ROG Phone 8 may have a more muted design compared to previous models, it remains a powerful gaming smartphone that caters to gamers who seek high-performance devices.
The Possibility of Cheaper Foldable Models from Samsung
Rumors suggest that Samsung Display is exploring cost-effective manufacturing methods for bezels in foldable OLED panels, with inkjet printing being considered to lower production costs. By maximizing the number of bezels produced from a given material, manufacturing costs can be reduced, potentially leading to more affordable foldable phones. While this information is speculative, Samsung's focus on cheaper production methods may pave the way for more accessible foldable devices that cater to a wider range of consumers, expanding the market for foldable smartphones.
Firefox Focus: The Privacy-Focused Browser
Ian Hall suggests Firefox Focus, a browser that blocks trackers and deletes browsing data for enhanced privacy.
The Usefulness of the Pixel 8 Pro Body Temperature Sensor
Kev and Michelle discuss the accuracy and convenience of the Pixel 8 Pro body temperature sensor for monitoring fevers.
ASUS Gaming Phones and the ROG Phone 5
Shihao Kung from ASUS joins the show to talk about gaming phones, the ROG Phone 5, and the future of mobile gaming.
Ron Richards, Huyen Tue Dao, Mishaal Rahman, and Jason Howell are joined by Chih-Hao Kung from ASUS to talk all about the ROG Phone 8 and the state of Android gaming phones in 2024.
NEWS
Android 15 to bring audio sharing, more immersion, and enhanced app archiving.
Amazon job listing spells impending doom for Android on Fire OS.
Circle to Search comes to Pixel 8 family.
Find My Device network still MIA.
Patron News Story Pick: Full screen food ads on the Chromecast with Google TV.
INTERVIEW
Chih-Hao Kung, ASUS global PR, talks all about the ROG Phone 8.
HARDWARE
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 might be less expensive.
Also possibly a mid-range foldable by Samsung too!
Nokia branding by HMD coming to an end.
PIxel Fold 2 might have a Tensor 4 instead of the G3!
APPS
Quick Share is here!
Generative AI coming to Google Maps.
Google says Assistant Driving Mode isn't DEAD dead.
COMMUNITY
The end of the microphone in the search bar isn't that bad.