Electronics - Beard Blog

The Best Of: 2024

December 31, 2024 by Ben Beard

2024 was the first year since 2019 that felt somewhat normal. No shutdowns, no mass panic, and no widespread illness. Despite that, I didn’t consume as much media as I once did. Still, I kept up my tradition of creating a “Best Of” list. While music and TV had standout years, movies and video games felt like they fell short in delivering top-tier entertainment. Take a look at my list below, and let me know what your “Best Of” picks for 2024 are!

Best Movie
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
The long-awaited sequel to one of my favorite childhood movies finally came to life. While the story wasn’t perfect, it gave me everything I hoped for—a chance to revisit the world of Beetlejuice. It also happened to be the only movie I saw in theaters this year, during a date night with my wife while my sister watched our 1.5-year-old. Rumor has it there’s another installment in the works, and you can bet I’ll be first in line to see it!

BeetleJuice Beetlejuice Movie

_{Runners-up: The Instigators, The 4:30 Movie}

Best TV Show
From
One of the most underrated streaming shows currently airing is From. It stands out in today’s binge-watch era by sticking to a weekly release schedule, reminiscent of traditional TV. This approach builds anticipation and keeps viewers engaged week after week, adding to the show’s unique appeal. With Season 3 now complete, the show seems to be gaining more momentum and recognition, but it still feels like a hidden gem. Unfortunately, like all great TV series, fans are left with a long wait for the next season, which only adds to the suspense and excitement. Part of its under-the-radar status likely comes from its home on MGM+, a relatively obscure streaming service that many people overlook. But make no mistake—this is a show worth seeking out. If you haven’t discovered From yet, now is the perfect time to dive into this gripping series and see what the buzz is all about.

From TV Show

_{Runners-up: Landman, Silo}

Best Music Album
Post Malone – F-1Trillion
In a move that surprised the world, Post Malone ventured into country music with the release of his first country album—and unlike the attempts of some other pop stars, this one is genuinely great. Seamlessly blending his signature style with the rich sounds of Texas country, Post delivered an album that feels both authentic and innovative. The project features collaborations with several established country heavyweights, adding depth and credibility to the album while still letting Posty’s unique sound shine through. It’s a refreshing take on the genre, packed with tracks that feel like instant classics. As if the original release wasn’t enough, the extended version, Long Bed, includes a collection of solo songs that showcase Post’s versatility and storytelling prowess even further. These additional tracks prove he’s not just dabbling in country but genuinely understands and respects the craft. Fans are already speculating about what’s next for Post Malone—whether he’ll continue exploring the country scene or venture into yet another unexpected genre. Whatever it is, one thing’s for sure: Posty knows how to keep us guessing, and we’re all here for the ride.

Post Malone F-1 Trillion: Long Bed Album

_{Runners-up: Muscadine Bloodline – The Coastal Plain, Quinn XCII – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner}

Best Song
I Had Some Help – Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen
F-1 Trillion delivered a collection of undeniable hits, but the standout track of the summer was undoubtedly “I Had Some Help,” featuring Morgan Wallen. This collaboration brought together two chart-topping powerhouses to create a timeless anthem that perfectly captures the genre. The blend of Post Malone’s signature style and Wallen’s country grit resulted in a genre-defying masterpiece that resonated across audiences. The lyrics hit home with heartfelt storytelling, while the infectious melody made it impossible not to sing along. It’s the kind of song that feels just as fresh on a summer road trip as it does on a quiet night under the stars. With both artists at the top of their game, “I Had Some Help” feels like an instant classic, the kind of track you’ll be revisiting for years. It’s a testament to their ability to push boundaries and create something truly memorable. If this song is any indication of what’s to come from either artist, the future of music looks incredibly bright.

I Had Some Help – Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen Song

_{Runners-up: 10-90 – Muscadine Bloodline, Little Love – Joe Samba}

Best Video Game
College Football 2025
With the introduction of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, College Football 2025 marks a groundbreaking return to form for the franchise, finally allowing real players’ names, likenesses, and personalities to shine rather than just faceless numbers. For fans of the old NCAA Football games, this isn’t just a nostalgic trip—it’s a full-fledged revival. What sets College Football 2025 apart is that it’s not simply a rebranded version of Madden. The game has its own distinct vibe, capturing the passion, unpredictability, and traditions of college football. From the electrifying atmosphere of campus stadiums to unique playbooks tailored to college programs, it’s a refreshing alternative to the polished but often formulaic Madden series. In fact, I find myself preferring it to Madden’s 2025 entry, as it feels more dynamic and less constrained. The game does an excellent job of honoring its legacy while incorporating modern gameplay mechanics, making it a must-play for both longtime fans and newcomers. It’s a return to what made the series so beloved in the early 2000s, with updated visuals and deeper immersion. This first new installment in years has set the stage for what could become a staple in sports gaming once again. Here’s hoping EA keeps the momentum going and continues to build on this solid foundation for future seasons. College football fans finally have the game they’ve been waiting for, and it was worth the wait.

College Football 2025 Video Game

_{Runners-up: Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6}

Best Mobile Game
Balatro
One of the most unexpected gaming successes of the year was Balatro, a game that, if someone had described it to me, I would have never imagined playing. Yet, after hearing glowing recommendations from fellow gamers, I decided to give it a shot—and once I started, I couldn’t put it down. Balatro is a unique take on the roguelike genre, blending it with the strategy of a card game. The twist? It’s built entirely around draw poker, using standard poker cards as its foundation. But it’s far from your average poker game. You build your deck as you play, factoring in thousands of possible modifiers, upgrades, and synergies that completely change how each round unfolds. Every session feels fresh, unpredictable, and endlessly replayable. What truly pushed Balatro into the spotlight was its release on iOS and Android later in the year, making it more accessible than ever. With the portability of mobile gaming added to the experience, it’s become a go-to game whether I’m at home or on the move. In fact, I’ve played Balatro on no less than four platforms this year, and each one brings its own unique charm to the game. What makes Balatro so special isn’t just its innovative concept, but the way it draws you in with simple mechanics that quickly reveal layers of strategic depth. It’s the kind of game that hooks you for hours at a time without you even realizing it. For a game I initially thought I’d never touch, it’s easily become one of my favorites of the year.

Balatro Video Game

_{Runners-up: NYT Games, Vampire Survivors}

Best iOS App
HerePix
Self-Promotion Alert:
This September, I hit a big milestone—I released my very first iOS app, HerePix! The app is designed to let you easily see the photos you’ve taken at your current location. Whether you’re revisiting a favorite spot, reminiscing about past trips, or simply curious about what moments you’ve captured nearby, HerePix brings those memories right to your fingertips. Creating HerePix has been an incredible learning experience. As a developer, I built this app primarily for myself to solve a problem I often had, but it turns out it’s something others find useful too. And honestly, I have no shame in plugging it here—it’s a project I’m genuinely proud of! What makes HerePix special to me is that it perfectly blends function with nostalgia. It’s incredibly rewarding to open the app and instantly reconnect with photos tied to specific places. Plus, seeing other people enjoy and benefit from something I created has been just as fulfilling as the development process itself. Even though it’s my own creation, HerePix is hands down my favorite app of the year. If you’re an iOS user, I’d love for you to check it out—who knows, it might become one of your favorites too! Here’s to the start of many more exciting projects ahead.

HerePix.app

_{Runners-up: Overcast, Untappd}

Best Podcast
Upgrade
If you’re an Apple enthusiast or just love keeping up with the latest tech, Upgrade is a must-listen weekly podcast hosted by two people I always enjoy hearing from, Myke Hurley and Jason Snell. The show dives deep into everything happening in the world of Apple, covering new product releases, software updates, and the latest industry trends coming out of Cupertino. What sets Upgrade apart is its thoughtful structure. With regular segments like “Snell Talk” and “Ask Upgrade,” plus breaking news and occasional insider insights, Myke and Jason strike the perfect balance between informative and entertaining. Their chemistry and shared passion for the subject make even the most technical discussions engaging and approachable. One of my favorite aspects of the show is their annual “best of the year” episode, the Upgradies, where they celebrate the best Apple products, apps, and even broader categories like movies and TV. It’s a fun, insightful way to reflect on the year in tech and culture. In fact, their approach to the Upgradies inspired my own yearly “Best Of” list—it’s a tradition I look forward to every year. If you’re into Apple or tech in general, Upgrade is the perfect way to stay informed and entertained while getting perspectives from two seasoned experts.

Upgrade Podcast

_{Runners-up: Reconcilable Differences, Connected}

Best Tech Product
Ray-Ban Meta
Smart glasses have arrived—well, sort of. Meta recently released a sleek pair of glasses (or sunglasses) that can do it all: talk to AI, snap pictures, and even play music. In short, they’re pretty impressive. With their blend of style and functionality, these glasses are poised to become the next big thing. They’ve already made a splash as one of the hottest holiday gifts this year, and it’s only a matter of time before you start seeing them everywhere. Read my review for more!

Ray-Ban Meta Glasses

_{Runners-up: Meta Quest 3s, reMarkable Paper Pro}

Best New Apple Product
Mac mini M4 Pro
Apple redesigned the Mac mini for the first time since 2008. It got a lot smaller, faster, and better overall. Coinciding with the release of the M4 CPU, the Mac mini also gets the Pro version of the chip making it the current fastest desktop computer you can buy. I replaced my M2 Max Mac Studio with this tiny little guy and have been loving it ever since.

https://www.apple.com/mac-mini/

_{Runners-up: iPhone 16 Pro Max, AirPods 4}

iPhone 16 Pro Max: Worth the Hype or Just Another Minor Upgrade?

October 5, 2024 by Ben Beard

The iPhone 16 Pro Max Beard Blog Review. It’s been another year, and I have another iPhone.

The 18th-generation iPhone is called the iPhone 16, continuing Apple’s tradition of incrementing model numbers in ways that defy logic.

This year, Apple is heavily promoting its latest buzzword: Apple Intelligence, their take on artificial intelligence. However, as of now, it’s more artificial than actual — none of the features have shipped yet. Despite billboards, TV ads, and prominent placement on Apple’s website, the only way to experience Apple Intelligence is through a public beta. We’re still weeks away from the first iOS 18 update that will roll out a small slice of the promised features.

In terms of design, both the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max have grown slightly in both height and width, although the bezels have slimmed down. In hand, the phone doesn’t feel significantly larger, but the increased width is noticeable when typing on the virtual keyboard. For me, this added width feels more ergonomic, reducing accidental touches. Side by side, the difference between the 15 Pro Max and the 16 Pro Max is subtle, but the size bump allows for a bigger battery and better battery life.

Some users might lament the constant growth in phone sizes, but as someone with larger hands, I appreciate the change. That said, with the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s 6.9″ diagonal display, I may be nearing the upper limit of comfortable one-handed use. I’m curious to see if Apple will push the size envelope any further in future models.

The standout hardware change in the iPhone 16 this year is the new Camera Control button. It’s yet another dedicated hardware button, but this one is all about camera functionality. It’s a flush, touch-sensitive button that allows you to “half-press” to adjust settings and fully press to snap a photo. Additionally, you can scroll on its tiny surface for deeper control options.

While the concept is promising, the execution falls short. The “half-press” and scrolling features, while intended to enhance control, often lead to accidental inputs. The dedicated camera launch and shutter button is something I’ve long wanted, but the added functions—like zoom control via touch or scroll—frequently cause me to unintentionally zoom or change settings when I just want to take a picture.

Overall, the Camera Control button is a decent idea, but the user experience feels lacking. Much of this could be improved with software tweaks, though we may not see those refinements until next year’s hardware update.

A new software feature exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max is an upgraded version of Apple’s Photographic Styles. This allows you to apply a custom style to every photo you take. In previous versions, the style was permanently embedded in the image, leaving no option to adjust it afterward. With the iPhone 16 Pro line, however, you can now set the style before capturing the photo and adjust it afterward as well.

Apple achieves this by storing the style data in the image’s metadata, rather than hardcoding it into the photo. This makes it a more flexible and advanced way to edit your photos, both before and after shooting. You can tweak tones, shadows, and colors using a touchpad-style interface, without needing a deep understanding of things like tone mapping, channels, or levels.

For non-serious photo editors, this is a convenient entry point into photo editing, especially considering Apple’s tendency to over-process base photos. Photographic Styles offers a way to restore contrast and shadow detail, counteracting Apple’s default brightening and flattening of images. While this feature is currently limited to the iPhone 16 Pro models, I can easily see it making its way to lower-end models in the future.

Apple Intelligence, the flagship feature of the iPhone 16 lineup (though not yet fully available), has potential and is notably more secure than other AI implementations. One standout feature is email summarization in the Apple Mail app. Instead of opening each email, you get a concise summary in the preview, which is often accurate enough to decide whether to open or delete it. However, it occasionally “hallucinates” and adds details that aren’t actually in the email, a flaw that should improve with future updates.

What sets Apple’s AI apart is its on-device processing, meaning your data stays on your phone rather than being sent to cloud services. This requires more powerful hardware, and Apple has designed these new iPhones to handle it. On-device AI also means faster results, without relying on an internet connection that can slow down responses.

While I’m optimistic that Apple Intelligence will become a useful tool, I don’t see it as the kind of revolutionary feature that will spark an iPhone boom. It’s more of an evolution than a game-changer.

The 2024 iPhone Pro line feels like one of the most incremental updates Apple has released in a while. Aside from the new Camera Control button and a slight size increase, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is nearly identical to the 15 Pro Max in terms of functionality. This year, Apple seems to have focused more on software, particularly Apple Intelligence, as they try to catch up to companies like Google and Microsoft in the AI race.

I’m hopeful that next year will bring a significant leap in both design and hardware, but recent trends suggest Apple is content with making small, steady upgrades—just enough to keep buyers like me coming back year after year.

The Good

Larger screens and slimmer bezels
Lightweight titanium frame remains the same
Bigger, longer-lasting battery

Missed Opportunities

Camera Control feels unfinished
Apple Intelligence features delayed at launch
No significant camera upgrades

The Bad

Dull, uninspired color options compared to the non-Pro models
Main camera still suffers from focus distance issues for the third year in a row
Ultra-wide and telephoto cameras remain mediocre, with no noticeable improvement over last year

How can the iPhone 16 Pro Max get to 10/10?

Significant Camera Upgrades: Focus distance issues need to be addressed, along with overall camera improvements.
A Bold Redesign: It’s time for a fresh look to reinvigorate the lineup.
Vibrant Colors: Apple should bring back truly vibrant, eye-catching color options.
Explore a Foldable: With competitors advancing in foldable technology, it might be time for Apple to introduce its own foldable iPhone.
Improved Battery Technology: While battery life has increased, Apple should focus on breakthrough battery technology that delivers even longer usage without compromising design or weight.

Should you upgrade?

If you already own an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, there’s no compelling reason to upgrade. Your current phone is fully capable of running Apple Intelligence, and the slight size increase and Camera Control aren’t significant enough to justify a new purchase.

However, if you’re using an older model, the iPhone 16 is worth considering, especially if you’re interested in Apple Intelligence. It’s a solid phone this year, with vibrant, interesting color options. That said, unless you specifically need the third telephoto camera or the 120Hz always-on display, the Pro models may not be worth the extra cost this time around.

Ray-Ban-dwith: Smart Sunglasses That Might Make You Dumber

August 30, 2024August 29, 2024 by Ben Beard

Beard Blog Review – Meta Ray-Ban

Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses

I’ve always been loyal to my Ray-Ban Wayfarers, even though recently I discovered the Oakley Holbrook and their impressive lenses. Over the past year, I’ve heard bits and pieces about the Ray-Ban Meta glasses but dismissed them due to concerns about Meta’s privacy track record. The idea of a wearable camera from them felt a little… unsettling. Typically, before trying out a new product, I dive into reviews, watch videos from creators, and gather feedback from peers to get a well-rounded perspective. After some deliberation, I finally decided to explore the world of “smart” glasses myself. I opted for a pair of Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Polarized in black.

At first glance, they resemble slightly smaller versions of the Ray-Ban Wayfarers I’ve always loved, complete with the familiar rigid brown leather storage case. The fit is a bit different, mainly because of the thicker arms that house all the smart features. After wearing them for the good portion of the day, they start to become uncomfortable. Hopefully I’ll get used to this in time, but more than four hours of straight wear isn’t working right now.

The charging case is one of my favorite features. If you’re familiar with how AirPods work, you’ll find these glasses quite similar. The case has its own internal battery that you charge, and in turn, it charges the glasses whenever they’re stored inside. This ensures that your glasses are likely at 100% whenever you take them out to wear. There’s no need for a separate charger or a bulky dock—just place them in the case, and charge the case itself once a week using USB-C. Where the button snap usually is on a standard Ray-Ban case, there’s an LED indicator that shows the charging status, which is a handy addition. Another perk is that the case looks just like a regular Ray-Ban sunglasses case at first glance, making it less likely to attract unwanted attention or theft.

Glasshole Photography

The standout feature of the Meta glasses, aside from the obvious sun-blocking capability, is the integrated camera. This allows you to capture photos and videos of whatever’s in your line of sight. The camera is an ultra-wide-angle 12MP sensor, which gives images a slight fisheye effect. However, there are no zoom or telephoto options, so you can only capture what’s directly in front of you. A thin button on the top of the right arm is used for capturing media—a single click takes a photo, while a long press starts recording a video. Videos are only 30 frames per second, but you’re not shooting for quality here. Without the LED privacy indicator light next to the camera, it would simply look like you’re adjusting your glasses when taking a photo. To its credit, Meta has made it clear when a photo or video is being captured by incorporating a flashing light to alert people in view. This light remains solid when recording video and cannot be disabled, ensuring others are aware of the camera’s use.

When you take a photo or video, it’s stored on the glasses’ internal 32GB storage until you can import it to your phone. This can be done in two ways: either by connecting to the glasses’ built-in Wi-Fi network, or, when the glasses are in their case, they can connect to known Wi-Fi networks to sync. If the glasses are in the case and connected to a known Wi-Fi network, the media will automatically transfer to your photo library, provided the app is running. If you’re wearing the glasses, you’ll need to open the Meta View app and connect to the glasses for the media to import. This process can interfere with your phone’s Wi-Fi connection, such as when using wireless CarPlay, since the glasses require the phone to disconnect from the car to complete the transfer.

As for the quality of the photos and videos, they are decent considering the source, but don’t match the capabilities of current smartphone cameras. The glasses don’t support HDR or Live Photos, but they do include geotagging if they’re connected to your phone. Media files are saved in a high-efficiency format, allowing you to store over 500 photos or more than 100 videos of 30 seconds each. Interestingly, photos are taken in landscape orientation, while videos are in portrait. This choice was likely made by Meta to optimize sharing on their social media platforms.

The sunglasses also feature built-in speakers that can function as earphones for taking calls, listening to music, and interacting with AI. These speakers are convenient because they allow you to listen to music without needing anything in your ears. Depending on the volume, people around you may not overhear your audio, although they can get loud enough for bystanders to catch some sound. In noisy environments, even at maximum volume, the sound may be hard to hear, which is where noise-cancelling earphones come in handy. The glasses connect to your smartphone like any Bluetooth headphones, so you can use them for any audio from your phone. The Ray-Bans have five built-in microphones, ensuring you’re heard clearly during calls. In my experience, I had no issues with being heard.

What Am I Looking At?

The last feature, and likely what Meta considers the standout one, is the integration of Meta’s AI assistant directly into the glasses, called ‘Meta AI.’ Similar to Siri or Google Assistant, you can ask Meta AI questions, and it will provide audible answers through the speakers. One impressive capability of Meta AI is its ability to describe what you’re looking at. It does this by taking a photo and analyzing it using an AI model. This can help answer questions like “What type of flower is this?”, “Translate this sign to English.”, or simply “What am I looking at?” It performs well, but its effectiveness is somewhat limited by the wide field of view and lack of zoom on the camera, requiring you to get close to objects for accurate identification.

I really enjoy having an AI assistant on my head, eliminating the need to use my phone. Recently, I visited a zoo and could ask it questions about the animals, receiving instant responses through the speakers. You can even continue a conversation with the assistant without saying the wake word (“Hey Meta”) for several replies in a row, enhancing the conversational experience. I did encounter a few hiccups, such as Meta AI occasionally losing its internet connection, requiring me to restart the app to continue. However, some moments made me smile. For instance, when I tried to take a photo, Meta AI immediately said, “I’m unable to take a photo, there is a hat in the way,” and sure enough, my hat was blocking the camera. Another time, in a noisy environment, when I asked a question, Meta AI responded, “It’s too noisy, and I’m unable to hear you,” which I found accurate, as I could barely hear its response. I’d prefer knowledgeable replies like these over generic ones like, “Sorry, I can’t do that…”.

The Good

Premium hardware with a subtle design.
Functional as regular sunglasses even when the battery is depleted.
Innovative smart case and charging design.
Meta AI offers practical utility.

Missed Opportunities

Limited color and size options.
Speakers could be louder or better tuned.
Limited iPhone integration, largely due to Apple’s constraints.

The Bad

Camera quality falls short of basic smartphones.
Photo syncing is cumbersome while wearing the glasses.
Touch controls are not always reliable.
Less comfortable than traditional Wayfarers.

How can the Ray-Ban Meta glasses get a 10/10?

Improve camera quality and image signal processing to take more feature-rich media.
Better integration with smartphone platforms.
Better controls and more physical buttons.
More brands, colors, and lens options for the smart glasses.

Should you buy Ray-Ban Meta glasses?

Meta’s smart sunglasses offer a stylish blend of premium hardware and innovative features, including the practical Meta AI assistant that provides real-time information and assistance. They function effectively as regular sunglasses even when the battery is low and come with a smart case that makes charging convenient. While the camera quality isn’t quite on par with basic smartphones and touch controls and photo syncing could be improved, the overall design and functionality make these sunglasses a great choice for tech enthusiasts and forward-thinkers who appreciate cutting-edge technology in a sleek, understated package.

Apple Vision Pro: First Impressions

February 5, 2024 by Ben Beard

I recently had the opportunity to demo the new Apple Vision Pro at my local Apple Store, and I have many thoughts. Even though I was intrigued by the product, I decided not to be an early adopter and pre-order sight unseen, mainly due to the high cost. Up until about a year ago, I was skeptical about the idea of VR as a consumer device, but after reviewing the PS VR2, I was sold on the concept. Apple usually waits until they can make a big splash in a market segment before entering it, so I thought the Vision Pro would be the pinnacle of VR as we know it.

What is Apple Vision Pro?

Apple markets Vision Pro as the first spatial computing device, intentionally avoiding categorizing it as either a VR (Virtual Reality) or AR (Augmented Reality) system. Following my experience with the headset, I would categorize it more as an entertainment device.

What Can Apple Vision Pro Do?

Though not a complete computer, Vision Pro currently shares similarities with an iPad. It has the capability to run compatible iPad apps from the App Store, and developers can also create dedicated visionOS apps exclusively for Vision Pro. The iPad apps functioning on Vision Pro appear as flat windowed instances, similar to Safari. The advantage lies in the flexibility to arrange them within your “space” as desired, deviating from the confinement of one or two on the iPad screen.

What Can’t Apple Vision Pro Do?

One notable limitation of Vision Pro is its inability to play VR games akin to those found on Meta Quest or PS VR2. While it’s plausible that similar or ported games may become available for Vision Pro in the future, there are currently none at its launch. It’s crucial to note that Vision Pro is not marketed as a gaming system, and purchasing it with that intention would be a waste of money and technology.

The Demo

Upon my arrival at the Apple Store at the scheduled time, an Apple specialist guided me through the process. Initially, he handed me an iPhone for a face and head measurement, similar to the Face ID setup. This measurement determined the appropriate size for the light shield of Vision Pro. Shortly after, another Apple employee presented a tray with a headset equipped with a pre-fitted light shield, along with a battery and cable. Something I found funny was the replaceable light shield had a mesh cloth protector on it, presumably to keep face grease from spreading person to person.

The Apple specialist then followed a scripted guide, instructing me on the precise placement of my hands on the headset and the correct method of putting it on my head. Surprisingly, the entire process took about 10 minutes. I anticipated a lengthier experience, but it seems I got all I needed during the brief period I spent in the goggles.

What I Liked

The overall feel of the device is much more premium and meticulously crafted than any of the other plastic headsets I’ve seen.
The internal screens you peer into surpass those of the PS VR2, a headset I’ve used extensively. This distinction is evident at first glance.
The software appears exceptionally refined, with ubiquitous Apple touches suggesting a thoughtful development tailored for mixed reality.
Spatial videos are a killer feature, reminiscent of how Live Photos changed the way I experience my photos. I intend to intentionally capture Spatial Videos with my iPhone, anticipating the possibility of enjoying them on Vision Pro in the future.
Panorama photos that you have taken in the past can be displayed as somewhat immersive photos that allow you to see the full perspective of the image.
Immersive videos (currently only produced by Apple as a demo) are definitely a look at the way we’ll consume media in the future. Whether this is live music performances, sporting events, or nature videos.
The Speaker Pods project sound downward toward your ears without entering them, unlike AirPods, are excellent. I wish Apple would develop a set of AirPods capable of replicating this design.

What Surprised Me

The overall weight of the headset was not an issue. It was a lot lighter than I initially thought after reading reviewers complain about the weight on their face.
The comfortability was beyond my expectation, again after reading reviews of the default head strap. It was much more comfortable and easy to wear compared to my PS VR2.
I didn’t finish the demo and immediately want to drop thousands of dollars on Vision Pro.
The eye tracking is good, but nothing revolutionary.

What I Didn’t Like

While the internal screens are very good, it’s immediately apparent that you’re looking at screens through a camera, rather than at the real world.
Open the camera app on your phone and view your room on the display through the camera. That’s what it’s like inside the goggles, but even a little worse.
There were several times my hand gestures didn’t work correctly or even register with Vision Pro. About 25% of the time, it did not recognize my two-finger tap to signal an input.
The field of view, or lack of, is noticeable. So when you’re inside Vision Pro there are visible areas of your peripheral not engulfed in screen. Not dissimilar to wearing ski goggles.
The disparity between wearing the headset and utilizing the passthrough view within the well-lit Apple Store and removing the headset to see through my own eyes was significant. The existing cameras and screens struggle to capture the full spectrum of light and color in the real world.
My face was measured to get the correct light seal size, but I did have some light bleed into the goggles. I’m not sure if this is normal, my size was incorrect, or they didn’t have the exact size I needed in store.
The demo was too short. I would have liked more time to explore Vision Pro.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Vision Pro is impressive, and I’m excited about the direction the technology is taking. In a few years, I anticipate it becoming as ubiquitous as AirPods. While I’ll be observing from the sidelines for this initial generation, I eagerly await any chance to revisit the device. When Apple decides to release a second-generation Vision Pro with significant upgrades, I’ll be among the first to place an order.

Today I saved at least $3500!

Apple Watch Ultra 2 – Beard Blog Review

October 31, 2023 by Ben Beard

Apple Watch Ultra 1.5

What’s New With Apple Watch Ultra 2

The latest Apple Watch Ultra introduces an all-new System-in-a-Package (SIP) called the S9, marking the first significant update in this department since the Series 6 back in 2019.
One notable improvement is the on-device Siri processing, which ensures quicker responses as your requests no longer need to travel to the internet and back.
The screen is now brighter, peaking at 3,000 nits, a significant 1,000 nits brighter than the original Apple Watch Ultra, marking a 300% increase compared to previous non-ultra models (excluding the first-generation).

“This feature may come across as a somewhat hastily added novelty to drive new watch sales.”

A new double-tap gesture offers the convenience of controlling various aspects of the Watch interface with just one hand. However, in my testing experience, I found it somewhat lacking. While the double tap registers successfully 90% of the time, it often makes assumptions about the function you intend to perform. For instance, if you wish to decline a call using the double tap, it might mistakenly answer the call, and there’s no way to customize this behavior. Moreover, when reading a notification, such as an iMessage, the one-handed operation doesn’t allow for scrolling, making it challenging to double tap to reply without knowing the full message content. This feature may come across as a somewhat hastily added novelty to drive new watch sales.

New things that don’t matter: 2nd-generation Ultra Wideband chip, double the storage capacity (64GB), and that’s it.

In a side-by-side visual comparison of the Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2, I observed no discernible physical distinctions. Even the text engraved on the underside of both models simply reads “Apple Watch Ultra.”

In essence, this doesn’t appear to be a true second-generation product. Instead, it resembles more of a minor enhancement to the original, especially given that Apple no longer offers the original Apple Watch Ultra for purchase, exclusively offering the Ultra 2.

The Good

All new SIP that’s noticeably faster
Brighter screen for direct sunlight viewing
Siri is much faster to process and understand queries

Missed Opportunities

Headlining double tap feature is extremely limited
It seems the SIP improvements were focused on neural engine and brighter screen, not battery life
No visual indication you have the new hotness
Same case and screen size

The Bad

Software still not fully taking advantage of the Ultra’s screen
Watch faces lack variety. Only one new watch face for the Ultra
Apps are still mostly useless on the watch

How can the Apple Watch Ultra get to 10/10?
– Better software to utilize the screen size.
– Allow Night Mode on any watch face
– Custom watch faces
– Make better use of the all new SIP
– Ability to customize the gestures

Last year in my Apple Watch Ultra review I outlined who the Ultra watch is for. Apple seems to have leaned into that by not making many changes on the second generation. It sold well so they want to keep that up and have this be the top-tier Apple Watch for all walks of life.

Should You Upgrade?

If you are already the proud owner of an Apple Watch Ultra (first-generation) there is no need to upgrade. There is nothing in this year’s model that makes it worth it. Wait for the possible third generation in 2024. If you were on the fence last year about getting an Apple Watch Ultra, this is the watch for you. Everything about the first generation remains in the Ultra 2 with some nice enhancements. This is the ultimate Apple Watch, no matter if you run marathons, SCUBA dive, or like me and just wear it to the mall.

Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max: The Beard Blog Review

September 24, 2023 by Ben Beard

It’s no surprise that Apple releases new iPhones in the fall every year, and this September is no different. Apple held an event on September 13th 2023 to announce four new iPhones and two new Apple Watches. All models were available to purchase starting on September 22nd. I again upgraded to the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Read about my thoughts on the 17th flagship iPhone.

iPhone 14: One Year Later

September 1, 2023 by Ben Beard

It’s been about a year since I received my iPhone 14 Pro Max and published my review. Normally I don’t revisit these as I’m looking forward to a new iPhone in the fall. This year I wanted to highlight my experiences with my iPhone 14. It could be too early to tell, but this may be the best iPhone I’ve ever owned. That of course comes with some concessions as it’s not perfect.

Durability

The iPhone 14 Pro Max is the most durable iPhone I’ve ever owned. It may be one of the most durable pieces of technology I’ve ever used. I normally don’t use a case, and this year my iPhone didn’t spend a single minute in any protection. The first few months, I babied the device, but after the first drop, that quickly faded. Now, on average, I drop my phone on a hard surface five times a week. In the past, by the summer, my iPhone is so beat up that I need to get it replaced with AppleCare. This year is an exception. Not only do I not need to get it replaced, but there is barely a mark anywhere on it. The most noticeable blemishes are on the screen and around the stainless steel edge. About six months ago, I noticed a deep scratch about one inch long in the middle of my screen. I have no idea where it came from, but I’ve lived with it since. As I mentioned before, I drop it a lot. I’ve even dropped it on concrete from waist-high and cringed as I bent over to pick it up, expecting to reveal a spiderweb of glass on the front. Time and time again, it comes out unscathed

The Dynamic Island

Not quite a gimmick, but not really a useful feature. The Dynamic Island debuted as the coolest way to date to blend the front camera into the screen. In practice, it kind of just faded and became more of a button to get to music playing or a progress bar for when something is uploading. I still like it, but I’m hopeful it gets better in the next iterations before it’s replaced by under-screen cameras and sensors.

Always On Display

Probably the biggest functional difference in the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max is the always-on display. I’ve heard that some people turn it off to save battery life, but in my (and others) testing, it does not have a significant impact on daily battery life. At first, it was somewhat odd to look over at your iPhone on the table and see a full-color display lit up, but I quickly got used to it. Now it serves as a way for me to glance at the time, widgets, and what’s currently playing. I love how Apple engineered the display and software to not just go monochrome like some other phones, but also preserve your wallpaper while giving you the choice to turn it off. Once again, the long wait was worth it.

Not So Great Points

The cameras are fine, but I’m ready for a major upgrade.
One thing I noted in my review last year was the focus distance of the main camera, especially when scanning barcodes. This was a pain point all year and I believe Apple will fix that on the next iPhone.
Battery life has also been just fine. It seems like this phone’s battery is degrading faster than previous ones.
The Pro colors are boring, but I don’t see Apple changing this anytime soon.

Pour one out for Lightning

The iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max may likely be the last iPhones with the Lightning connector. While it’s over 10 years old, the Lightning connector is one of the best port innovations we’ve seen in a long time. Some may forget that Apple was part of the consortium that helped develop USB-C, so it was loosely based on Lightning. In a physical connector sense, Lightning is better than USB-C because the complicated and fragile bits are on the inside of the device, whereas USB-C exposes them on the cable side. It was a big deal when Lightning launched on the iPhone 5 in 2012, and it’s still in use on a lot of products today. Let’s pour one out for the previous best charging solution and the originator of the reversible charging cable.

iPhone 14 to 15

The iPhone 14 Pro Max is a great device and while it may be the best iPhone I’ve ever used, there is always the newest one to take that title. I probably won’t think about the 14 again after this, but it remains a favorite in my book. The next iPhone is rumored to be named the iPhone 15, in numerical order after the current iPhone 14. If all goes well, you will soon be reading my review of the next iPhone right here on Beard Blog.

My Hobby Project – BeardStix

July 15, 2023 by Ben Beard

As the sun sets on a balmy summer evening, seated on my back patio, I find myself enveloped in an ambiance that ignites my creative spirit. It is during these moments that I often indulge in the ritual of lighting a cigar, a catalyst for unlocking the depths of my imagination, as wisps of smoke dance around me, transporting me to a realm of boundless inspiration.

Curiously, one might assume that as an IT manager, my desire to escape anything technical or computer-related would dominate my precious leisure hours. Yet, against all odds, I remain drawn to the world of technology. Whether it’s tending to my home server and network or donning the hat of the family’s trusted IT guru, my free time becomes a canvas where I tirelessly refine my technical prowess, for better or for worse.

Recently, I shared my inherent inclination for collecting various items, ranging from games and cigars to YETI products, among others. However, my passion for collecting goes beyond mere acquisition; it extends into the realm of organizing and analyzing data. Initially, I turned to spreadsheets as a means to satisfy my craving for order, yet I soon realized that this alone would not suffice.

A peculiar aspect of my collection obsession revolves around my long-standing practice of rating a universally adored appetizer—mozzarella/provolone cheese sticks—since 2016, meticulously recording my assessments in a note on my trusty iPhone. With the introduction of cigars into my repertoire, I yearned for a method to catalogue my acquisitions and preferences. It was in the latter part of 2019 that the idea of BeardStix came to fruition—an amalgamation of my fondness for cheese sticks and the “sticks” that epitomize cigars.

Since its inception in 2019, my BeardStix website has been a work in progress, continuously evolving with the addition of new features, refined designs, and enriched information. This year, my focus has been predominantly on bolstering the administrative capabilities of the site, empowering me with seamless avenues to incorporate and update content from any location, at any time. This enhanced functionality ensures that I have the flexibility and convenience to contribute and manage website information effortlessly, no matter where I may find myself.

Technical details
For the inquisitive minds, BeardStix is crafted using PHP pages complemented by a MariaDB backend, which operates on a server located within the confines of my own home. To infuse the website with interactivity and real-time updates, I harness the power of JavaScript, Ajax, and cutting-edge Google technologies. This amalgamation enables the pages to be highly responsive and seamlessly updates information as it unfolds, providing users with a dynamic and engaging browsing experience.

BeardStix Features
Cheese stick ratings
Cigar humidor inventory
Cigar recommendations
Cigar ratings and check-ins
Pizza ratings
Add cheese stick rating*
Modify cigar inventory*
Rate and check-in to cigars*
Add pizza rating*

*admin-only functions not currently exposed to the internet

Select here to experience BeardStix

My Apple iPhone Lock Screen

June 2, 2023 by Ben Beard

I was surprised to learn that many iPhone users are unaware of the numerous Lock Screen features Apple has introduced in the last 12 months. These features encompass a range of customizations to enhance the appearance and functionality of the Lock Screen, including the introduction of widgets for the first time. Additionally, Apple now allows users to change the clock font, a feature previously unavailable. Given that most of these features are hidden and not easily found, I believe it would be helpful to share the Lock Screen setup I personally use on a daily basis.

Customizations

The clock font options provided by Apple do not come with specific names or numbers, but I have chosen a unique font that adds some character to the default style. Moreover, I have opted for a non-standard wallpaper sourced from Reddit, further adding a personalized touch to my Lock Screen.

Widgets

Apple offers a selection of first-party widgets for users to choose from, and third-party developers have the ability to create widgets for their apps. In crafting my Lock Screen layout, I have decided to incorporate a combination of both first-party and third-party widgets, allowing for a diverse and personalized arrangement.

Date
Previously the date was below the time, but now we have the option to add it as a tiny widget above, giving room for more robust widgets in the space below. I wear a watch that display the day and month, but having it on the Lock Screen on my phone is sometimes handy.

Carrot Weather
Here on my Lock Screen I’m using two different Carrot Weather widgets for all my weather watching needs. Positioned above the time is a standard “High & Low” widget, provided by the third-party app Carrot. Directly below the time, I have incorporated a customized large widget from Carrot. The ability to personalize these minute details is one of the primary reasons I am a paying subscriber to Carrot Weather. It’s fantastic that Carrot Weather allows for such customization, enhancing my Lock Screen experience.

Watch Battery
Apple includes a widget that enables you to choose a device and view its current battery level. If you prefer, you can even display the battery level of the iPhone you’re currently using. Personally, I have opted to display the battery level of my Apple Watch, as it is the device I am primarily concerned about. Additionally, this widget has the convenient feature of automatically switching to another connected device, like AirPods, when applicable. This functionality ensures that I can effortlessly keep track of various device battery levels on my Lock Screen.

Snapchat
In addition to having the camera icon conveniently located in the bottom-right corner of my Lock Screen, I frequently unlock my phone with the sole intention of capturing a spontaneous photo to share on Snapchat. This particular widget provides a direct shortcut to the camera function within the Snapchat app, enabling the fastest way to take a snapshot right from the locked position. Similar functionalities can be found in other apps as well, making lock screen widgets an excellent tool for efficiently utilizing various applications.

My Apple Watch Face

May 19, 2023 by Ben Beard

From time to time I get questions about what watch face I use on my Apple Watch. After wearing an Apple Watch just about every day for over 8 years, I’ve settled on the information I want to see on my wrist at a glance.

I use the Modular watch face which was been on the Apple Watch since the beginning, but has received several updates since launch. I almost always use digital time because when you have a smart watch, using analog time is inefficient. I have no problem telling time from an analog watch but other than aesthetic, analog time doesn’t have a place on a screen.

Complications

More so than telling the time, I use the watch complications to give me more information than a traditional watch can offer.

Calendar
I can never keep track of the date or even what day of the week it is. This gives me that information tucked neatly into the corner. I tend to look for this information multiple times per day, instead of just remembering the date or day.

Digital Seconds
While an analog clock usually offers a second hand, this digital face does not show seconds. Apple recently added the ability to add digital seconds as a complication. This gives me a way track seconds or just get an idea of when a minute will be rolling over.

Carrot Weather
Previously I was an avid user of the Dark Sky complication that gave me the information I wanted. After Apple retired this app, I needed to find a replacement. While Carrot doesn’t offer a direct replacement, I was able to use the custom complication feature in Carrot to get as close as possible. The data points I want to see are temperature, low/high predictions, and sunrise/sunset times. Carrot offers these data points in two lines, so I had the freedom to add another data point and I settled on the “feels like” temperature.

Activity
I use my watch to track my fitness, or lack there of, so I like having my activity rings on my watch face. This lets me know how I’m doing activity-wise throughout the day and if I need to step it up.

Geneva Moon
The lunar phase doesn’t really have an impact on my life, but it’s cool to be aware of it without having to search the sky. The built-in Apple moon complication does not accurately reflect the moon phase in my location. David Smith created Geneva Moon to fix this. He also provided the option to use a simple moon shape or realistic and I like the filled-in-circle look of the simple moon.

Battery
The Apple Watch battery has always been a problem, but if you get into a daily charging regiment, it works. When Apple released the Apple Watch Ultra, the battery life was stretched from 18 hours to about 40 hours. Now my charging isn’t as regular as it once was so I need to keep an eye on my battery level.

Digital Time
The digital time is clearly the most important part here, but I wish it could be bigger. Any of the other faces that offer larger digital time, sacrifice complication count or size. I hope in the future Apple better utilizes the Apple Watch screen and allows flexible on element sizes.

Download this watch face on your Apple Watch!

Read my Apple Watch Ultra review for more!

Sony PlayStation VR2 Review

March 9, 2023March 9, 2023 by Ben Beard

What is VR?

Virtual Reality (VR) has been around since the 1970s, but only recently has it become easily accessible by consumers. In the 2020s we’ve been hearing a lot of VR and AR (Augmented Reality) platforms being developed and released to not much fanfare. Recently Meta (Facebook) unveiled their plan to go all-in on VR/AR proclaiming the Metaverse. The latest VR headset to go on sale is the gaming offering from PlayStation. Read on for my thoughts on this new gaming peripheral and my first experience with the VR2.

The Best Of: 2022

December 28, 2022 by Ben Beard

The year 2022 might be remembered as the year we got back to “normal”. In the spirit of that, let’s revisit all the best things that happened this past year, even if 2022 wasn’t the best year for everyone.

Best Movie
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery
The next entry in one of my favorite movies from 2019, Glass Onion is another murder mystery led by Daniel Craig. We first saw him in Knives Out which surprised many as a breakout hit and a fresh take on the murder mystery genre. Glass Onion is different, but good in similar ways. My favorite thing about Glass Onion is how the story unfolds and you aren’t trying to solve the puzzle the entire time.

Best TV Show
Severance
Seems like Severance came out so long ago that I had to check if it was indeed released in 2022. It premiered in February and was released weekly like the good old days. If you haven’t yet watched Severance (Apple TV+) be sure to check it out before season 2 premieres. It’s such a good show and I don’t think I can do it justice trying to explain it here. What I will do is say that it’s a sci-fi/thriller series set in an office.

Best Music Album
Dirty Heads – Midnight Control
In 2022 we began to see the fruits of labor from the lockdown and we got a lot of great music this year. The Dirty Heads have released their 8th album Midnight Control and it might be their best yet. Give it a listen, even if you don’t necessarily like their other music. They are definitely a genre-bending band and with each new album they introduce a refined sound.

Best Song
Morgan Wallen – You Proof
A country song about whiskey and breakups, what’s so good about it? I’m not sure, but You Proof is the song I listened to the most this year and almost all of those listens were by choice. Morgan Wallen is someone who keeps churning out good music and I’m not even a country music fan.

Best Video Game
Vampire Survivors
Lots of great games were released in 2022 (mostly for Playstation) and none struck me and reeled me in like Vampire Survivors. I actually didn’t notice this game until recently and I played it for hours on Xbox Game Pass, then bought it on Steam to play it on the go. it’s a simple game too. The only control mechanism is the direction your player moves. It has been described as a “pure hit of Dopamine”.

Best Mobile Game
Marvel Snap
Look… I’m not a big Marvel fan. I’m not a fan of card strategy games. I rarely play mobile games more than a few times. For some reason, I can’t put down Marvel Snap. It’s a simple card-based game that is absolutely free. Try it, but remember, I warned you that it’s addicting.

Best Podcast
SmartLess
Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes have a comedy podcast where they interview famous people but end up spending a lot of the time joking with one another. It’s a welcome change in my podcast rotation apart from my usual tech and movie/tv podcasts. I’m a Jason Bateman fan and his personality on SmartLess is a lot like some of his movie characters.

Best New Tech Product
Steam Deck
A mobile computer gaming machine that’s better in a lot of ways than the Nintendo Switch. I did an in-depth review on this beast, that you can read over here.

Best Apple Product
Apple Watch Ultra
Apple finally made a watch worthy of my lifestyle. No I don’t rock climb, SCUBA dive, or run marathons, but I am rough on technology. Read my in-depth review on the Apple Watch Ultra over here and let me know what you think!

Let me know your thoughts on Facebook, Twitter, or where ever you saw this post!

Last year’s The Best of 2021

The Steam Deck Review

November 10, 2022 by Ben Beard

The Steam Deck, not to be confused with the Stream Deck, is a handheld gaming “console” that isn’t from Sony, Microsoft or Nintendo. Valve, the company behind Half-Life, Portal, and Steam, made a portable computer you can play games on.

Back in my day, PC gaming was a never-ending money pit of hardware upgrades as new games push the limits of graphics cards. This vicious cycle led me to primarily be a console gamer, mostly focusing on Sony’s Playstation. I was intrigued when Valve announced the Steam Deck, but like most others, skeptical of the performance a portable PC can achieve. Earlier this year I pre-ordered a Steam Deck, but after reviews said it’s not ready yet, I pulled my order. Meanwhile, Valve worked hard on software updates and getting units shipped, so I gave it time to percolate. Revisiting tech reviews, Reddit first-hand accounts, and six months of improvements, I was ready to give it a go.

Prior to fall 2022, Valve had long wait times to get your hands on a Steam Deck, much like the almost two-year-old next-gen consoles. Apparently I waited until the right time as my pre-order was only in for a few days before I was able to actually order a console. Within about 10 days, it was delivered to my home and I was full steam ahead.

The first thing I did was look at my sad Steam library and figure out how to play games. After exploring SteamOS a bit, I went directly to Reddit to aid in my fun. The Steam Deck community was alive and well and has all the resources I needed to learn about Steam games, emulation, and playing non-Steam games on my brand new Steam Deck.

The Good

While a huge device, it’s comfortable to hold and not heavy
Great software and familiar if you know Linux
So many buttons
Speakers sound good for how small they are
Right to Repair friendly

Missed Opportunities

The screen could be better on a device released in 2022
Base model storage is slow and tiny
No built-in cellular options
Feels kind of locked to SteamOS

The Bad

Battery life is very low, especially on newer games
No native way to run Windows
Runs hot and has an exhaust port
Not a Nintendo Switch competitor

The Steam Deck is a full-fledged gaming computer, that (almost) fits in your hands. For me, it wouldn’t replace a Nintendo Switch or gaming on an iPhone. The Steam Deck is targeted at the PC gaming market in an effort to take those games on the go. What Valve may not have realized, is they have a tinkerer’s dream on their hands. Giving a technically inclined person a powerful computer they can take with them on an Airplane is great opportunity in a small package.

What you CAN do with the Steam Deck:
– Play most games available on Steam
– Install and use most apps available to Linux distros
– Emulate retro gaming systems
– Emulate Nintendo Switch games
– Play Xbox Cloud games
– Use it as a real computer

What you CANNOT do with the Steam Deck:
– Play native Windows games without workarounds
– Run iOS or Android apps/games
– Easily play PC games not purchased through Steam
– Play games for more than six hours without charging
– Mirror wirelessly to a display or TV
– Natively play Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo games

Did you know?

Steam makes a dock for the Stream Deck to allow you to use it as a full desktop computer or connect to a TV for a Nintendo Switch-like experience.

Apple Watch Ultra: The Beard Blog Review

November 10, 2022October 6, 2022 by Ben Beard

The ultraist Apple Watch of them all.

Watching the recent Apple event where the Apple Watch Ultra was announced, I was elated at the feature set, but at the same time dreading the price reveal. When Jeff Williams revealed the $799 price tag, my jaw dropped. This is not the normal Apple pricing we usually see. I was throwing around $999 or $1099 in my head trying to figure out how I could justify spending that much. Compared to a normal Apple Watch with cellular, sapphire screen, and titanium body, $799 isn’t that far off, but the Ultra does so much more!

Of the last ~2700 days I’ve worn an Apple Watch 99% of the time. They finally made one to last longer than a day. It’s going to be great.
— Ben Beard (@Capt_Beard) September 11, 2022

I’ve been wearing an Apple Watch every day since buying the first-generation in April of 2015. It was a big change for me as I was an every day traditional watch wearer. I even had a small watch collection growing. Since the first time I put on an Apple Watch, I had wished for a bigger screen for my large wrists. Over the years we’ve seen the (biggest) Apple Watch go from 42mm to 44mm, and then last year to 45mm. The Ultra watch is a generous 49mm.

What’s New on Apple Watch Ultra?

Compared to the Series 7 of last year and the Series 8 introduced with the Ultra, it has a lot more adventurous features than your standard watch. While on the surface it may seem like a whole new watch from the ground up, it’s not. More of a case redesign, it still has the same trusty Apple Watch features we’ve grown to love over the years. What sets the Ultra watch apart from the other Apple Watches is the addition of a 86db siren, 2000 nit display, dual-frequency GPS, customizable action button, and water depth and temperature gauge. If you’re only interested in the health sensors, it has the same exact sensors as the Series 8. Some other improvements to existing features that the Ultra watch has are sure to come to the lower watches like louder speakers, bigger battery, and three mic array.

What Makes This Watch Ultra?

Apple tells us this watch isn’t for everyone, it’s for the most extreme, athletic, and adventurous people out there. We all know that the majority of customers for the Apple Watch Ultra will likely not fit into any of those categories, myself included. This isn’t the first time Apple has offered a titanium case watch with sapphire glass. Last year’s Series 7 was available in that configuration for $699. What truly makes this watch special is the size as it’s Apple’s largest watch to date. Additionally it can withstand the elements more, dive deeper, and possibly not get damaged as easily. My main reasons for buying the Apple Watch Ultra were the large screen size and long battery life, everything else is just a bonus.

Sensor Watch

The new sensor this year on both the Series 8 and Ultra is wrist temperature sensing. This takes a reading of the ambient under-screen temperature and your wrist temperature and forms an opinion on what your body may be like over the course of your sleep. This was presented as a benefit to Cycle Tracking, but for those who do not menstruate, this was left as an unknown. After wearing the Apple Watch to sleep, it does in fact record temperature readings in the Health app. If these will be accurate or useful in the long term remains to be seen.

Water temperature sensing only works when the watch is fully submerged. I was unable to get this to function whilst running my watch under a water faucet.

The Alpine Loop band looks and feels good, but it’s much harder to adjust and remove than any of the traditional Apple Watch bands.

Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max: The Beard Blog Review

November 10, 2022September 20, 2022 by Ben Beard

Here we are again, the fall weather is upon us and there are new iPhones out in the wild. Apple recently announced the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max. Later this year the iPhone 14 will get a big brother named the iPhone 14 Plus. It’s easy to tell that Apple has a long term strategy with the iPhone. They meticulously add new features that seem like a big deal at first, but are actually very small improvements year over year. This allows them to continue to release a new phone every fall and get people (like me) to buy it.

What’s new on iPhone 14 Pro Max

The iPhone 14 Pro Max is a lot like the 13 Pro max and even the 12 Pro Max. Same shape, size, and materials. The biggest difference is the screen notch has been replaced by a rotated lowercase “i” shaped cutout called the Dynamic Island. I feel like this has a lot of potential in the future, but without any third-party app integration, it’s just a cool demo. The OLED screen has been updated to be brighter and be “Always-On” when not in use. This is similar to the Apple Watch where the screen dims but still shows some lock screen elements. I frequently have my iPhone sitting on a table in-front of me and now I won’t have to tap it to see what’s going on. Having devices where the screen is always-on is soon to become the norm. In the near future we’ll look at devices that don’t have the screen on as antiquated.

There’s a new main camera sensor (again) this year, but this time they quadrupled the megapixel count from 12 to 48. This doesn’t mean a whole lot, but allows it to gather more details and present you with a better image. I’ve found that when you want the most detail, use the “RAW” option to get a 48mp image as opposed to the Apple processed 12mp version.