Chinese smartphone maker <keyword id="2210217" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="oneplus">OnePlus</keyword> has reportedly exposed hundreds of customer email addresses while sending out a mass mailer for a research study to a select number of users.<br /><br />Instead of putting email IDs of customers in the "BCC" field, the company ended up copy-pasting hundreds of email addresses in the "To" field.<br /><br />This resulted in all recipients of the research email receiving hundreds of customer email addresses, Android Police reported on Friday.<br /><br />The exact number of users affected in this goof-up is currently unknown but one among the listed told Android Police that the number is in "hundreds".<br /><br />OnePlus was yet to comment on the development.<br /><br />In November last year, the company revealed a major data breach in which customer's information such as name, contact number, email, and shipping address was exposed.<br /><br />OnePlus said hackers gained access to past customer orders. Exposed information included details like customer names, contact numbers, emails, and shipping addresses, but not passwords or financial details.<br /><br />Before that, OnePlus reported its first security breach in which credit card information of nearly 40,000 customers was exposed through the company's official website.<br /><br />OnePlus manufactures premium devices like 8 and 8 Pro and has entered into the mid-price segment with the ‘Nord' brand in India and Europe.<br /><br /><strong>SEE ALSO:<br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/oneplus-nord-smartphone-first-impressions-mid-range-phone-with-classic-design/articleshow/77119857.cms">OnePlus Nord first impressions – mid-range smartphones get a classy nod</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/google-reportedly-spying-in-facebook-instagram-and-tiktok-users-on-android/articleshow/77162970.cms">Google reportedly spying on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok users on Android</a><br /><br /></strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/oneplus-mid-price-range-tv-even-thinner-that-its-smartphone/articleshow/76642995.cms"><strong>The upcoming OnePlus TV will reportedly be thinner than the OnePlus 8 series</strong></a><br />

OnePlus mishap exposes hundreds of customer emails

<br /><ul><li>An 'unauthorised party' was able to access OnePlus customers' order information and might have stolen users' names, shipping addresses, contact numbers and email IDs.</li><li>If you are one of the affected users, OnePlus has sent an email to registered ID to inform you of the breach.</li><li>The company has not disclosed how many users were affected but claims that the most that can happen is a little more spam in your inbox.</li></ul>Two years, two data breaches for OnePlus — but this time around it isn't that serious, <a href="https://www.oneplus.com/uk/support/faq22119102?awc=10855_1574672963_f0477d6fa82d76221305528879af4fb4&amp;utm_source=aw&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_campaign=Sub+Networks&amp;utm_term=78888&amp;utm_content=0">according</a> to the company. The most that can happen is that you'll get extra spam in your inbox, if you're one of the affected users. <br /><br />In case you were one of the victims, the company will be notifying you by email.<br /><br />Last time around, in January 2018, the credit card information of around 40,000 customers was stolen.<br /><br />OnePlus has not disclosed who many customers were affected this time but claims that all payment information, passwords and accounts are safe — only names, contact numbers, email IDs and shipping addresses 'may have been exposed'. <br /><br />This means the hacker only has the power to send phishing emails and spam your way. They don't have enough information to hack into your accounts or access any of your financial services.<br /><br />But, it does put you at risk.<br /><br /><strong>Here's how phishing emails work<br /></strong><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/even-this-expert-on-hackers-got-tricked-into-clicking-a-scam-email/articleshow/53625920.cms">Phishing</a> is like carrying out a con — only it's online. Users usually receive an <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/people-are-being-victimized-by-a-terrifying-new-email-scam-where-attackers-claim-they-stole-your-password-and-hacked-your-webcam-while-you-were-watching-porn-heres-how-to-protect-yourself/amp_articleshow/65126033.cms">authentic-looking </a>email that seems as though it's from a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/the-11-most-sophisticated-online-scams-right-now-that-the-average-person-falls-for/articleshow/68568477.cms">legitimate company</a>. The email usually asks the recipient to click on a link or provide sensitive information. <br /><br />So, as a general rule, never provide any sensitive information by clicking on third party links. Not just over emails, but even forwarding links in messages or from secondary websites.<br /><br />And, whenever you are entering any sensitive information online, always double-check the URL. Better yet, use your own link.<br /><br />Moreover, activate a plug-in or web tool that can <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/think-you-can-spot-a-hackers-phishing-email-take-googles-quiz-and-find-out/articleshow/67648969.cms">flag off</a> malicious links and warn you before you click on anything risky.<br /><br /><strong>How is OnePlus going to fix this?<br /></strong><br />"We took immediate steps to stop the intruder and reinforce security, making sure there are no similar vulnerabilities," said OnePlus in a <a href="https://www.oneplus.com/uk/support/faq22119102?awc=10855_1574672963_f0477d6fa82d76221305528879af4fb4&amp;utm_source=aw&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_campaign=Sub+Networks&amp;utm_term=78888&amp;utm_content=0">statement</a>.<br /><br />According to the company, it will be partnering with a 'world-renowned' security platform — ye to be disclosed — next month. And, in collaboration, they will launch an official bug bounty program by the end of December. <br /><br />Even though the company revealed the data breach on their official company website, they did not report it to CERT-IN — India's nodal agency for cybersecurity — as per the IT Act.<br /><br />Business Insider has reached out to OnePlus for more information and awaiting their response.<br /><br /><strong>See also:<br /></strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/wipro-phishing-attack-computer-system-hacked/articleshow/68918449.cms">Wipro confirms phishing attack on its system — 11 other companies unknown</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/whatsapp-data-breach-hits-downloads-in-its-biggest-market-opens-it-up-to-telegram-and-signal/articleshow/71936801.cms">WhatsApp data breach hits downloads in its biggest market — opens it up to Telegram and Signal</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/how-to-stay-safe-on-whatsapp-and-protect-your-data/articleshow/71837738.cms">How to stay safe on WhatsApp and protect your data</a><br />

One Plus has not disclosed how many users were affected by data breaches

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 review: A folding phone for all

<ul><li>Redmi 12 5G starts at a price of ₹10,999</li><li>The smartphone is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC</li><li>It features a 50MP AI dual camera</li></ul>Redmi today has launched the Redmi 12 5G along with the Redmi Watch 3 Active. The latest addition to the brand’s number series the Redmi 12 looks promising on paper. It packs in a Qualcomm 4 Gen 2 SoC, along with the bells and whistles of today's 5G device. But does it stand true to the claims? And where does it sit in the market today, considering Redmi also has plenty of options in this price range. I will tell you in my full review. <br /><br /><strong>Price &amp; Availability</strong><br />Redmi 12 is available in 3 variants available at introductory prices. There is a variant with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage priced at ₹10,999. Then there is a variant with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage offered at ₹12,499. And finally, there is a variant with 8GB RAM and 256GB of internal storage priced at ₹14,499. The smartphone is available on Flipkart, Redmi’s D2C website, and Mi’s offline stores. <br /><br /><strong>Design<br />        <div type="image" title="Redmi 12 5G sports flat edges." msid="102252060" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Redmi 12 5G sports flat edges. &amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div></strong><br />The Redmi 12 presents a fresh design compared to its predecessors in the number series, setting it apart from the Note series as well. This distinction is crucial to prevent confusion among consumers.<br /><br />The phone adopts a minimalist approach to its design, featuring clean lines and a symmetrical appearance. Despite its sizable 6.7-inch screen and the inclusion of a 5000mAh battery, the device remains easy to handle due to well-balanced weight distribution.<br /><br />The flat edges provide a comfortable grip, although individuals with smaller hands might find it a bit unwieldy due to its larger size and weight.<br /><br />        <div type="image" title="The form factor feels premium." msid="102252069" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;The form factor feels premium. &amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br />Similar to its siblings, the Redmi 12 impresses with its IP53 water and dust resistance rating, ensuring robust durability. The Corning Gorilla Glass protects the display from scratches, but an additional screen protector is recommended for extra security.<br /><br />On the back, there's a generously sized camera module housing the impressive 50MP AI camera sensor, which we'll delve into more in the camera section.<br /><br />        <div type="image" title="You get an IR blaster &amp;amp; a headphone jack on the device." msid="102252072" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;You get an IR blaster &amp;amp;amp; a headphone jack on the device. &amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>The moonstone silver color with a metallic finish looks visually appealing, though it might take some time for users to warm up to it, as it may not suit everyone's taste.<br /><br />While the device has a slippery feel, it surprisingly doesn't accumulate many fingerprints. To address this, using a protective case is recommended.<br /><br />Redmi has retained some defining characteristics of the Note series, starting with the placement of the headphone jack on the top. Although not everyone's favorite location, it's a valuable feature for those who use both Bluetooth and wired earphones.<br /><br />Another standout feature is the inclusion of an IR blaster, which is becoming rare in modern devices. Although not frequently utilized, it can prove to be helpful in emergencies, such as when TV remote batteries run out or when multiple devices need to be controlled with a single remote.<br /><br />The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is quick and efficient, allowing fast unlocking of the device. While some might prefer an under-display fingerprint sensor, its current placement remains a matter of personal preference and not a major issue.<br /><br />Regarding fit and finish, the buttons, like the volume rockers, boast excellent quality. The SIM card tray, located at the bottom, supports two nano SIMs.<br /><br /><strong>Display<br />        <div type="image" title="The 6.7-inch FHD+ display has noticeable  bezels around it." msid="102252095" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;The 6.7-inch FHD+ display has noticeable bezels around it. &amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div></strong>The Redmi 12 boasts a generous 6.7-inch FHD+ display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. It features a punch-hole screen design with noticeable bezels and a thicker chin, comparable to the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/oneplus-nord-ce-3-lite-review/articleshow/99245498.cms">OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite</a> in terms of bezel size.<br /><br />The panel impresses with its brightness, reaching a peak of 900 nits, ensuring a well-lit and evenly illuminated experience indoors. However, outdoor visibility can be challenging, so it's best to disable auto-brightness and manually adjust it when needed.<br /><br />The display supports a maximum refresh rate of 90Hz, providing smooth motion for all on-screen content. Reading articles or playing games on the Redmi 12 is a delight, thanks to the smooth and immersive experience it offers.<br /><br />Throughout my two-week experience with the Redmi 12, including a holiday week, it became my go-to device for content bingeing. It handles HD formats flawlessly on various OTT applications, and I particularly enjoyed watching Marvel's Secret Invasion on Disney+ Hotstar. The colors were slightly on the colder side, but it didn't significantly impact the overall experience. The sharp output allowed me to catch every detail, although the HDR performance could be further improved as black levels occasionally suffered.<br /><br />Regarding audio, the Redmi 12 has a single bottom-firing speaker setup, which is not its strongest aspect. At times, the audio output felt underwhelming, so I'd recommend using TWS earbuds or wired earphones to fully enjoy your content with improved sound quality.<br /><br /><strong>Software</strong><br />The Redmi 12 series comes with the advantage of shipping with Android 13 out of the box, along with the latest MiUi 13. This sets it apart from its Note siblings, which originally came with Android 12 upon release.<br /><br />Redmi 12 continues the brand's efforts to minimize bloatware, although there are some unwanted additions to the skin, such as the Opera browser and a suggested games tab. Thankfully, users have the option to uninstall some of these pre-installed apps. Considering the price point, the controlled bloatware on this device is commendable.<br /><br />The MiUi 13 on the Redmi 12 maintains the familiar and colorful animations we are accustomed to on Redmi devices. The user interface is designed to be accessible to a wide range of users, and it achieves this with its clean and straightforward layout.<br /><br />Customization options abound, offering a variety of wallpapers and themes to choose from. Personally, I prefer the stock skin as it looks the best to me. One common issue with third-party skins is their deviation from Google's layout, especially in areas like the drop-down menu. I find the big, chunky tiles of the Google skin layout easier to interact with and visually appealing. This observation isn't specific to Redmi but applies generally to various skins.The Asus <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/asusrogphone6review/articleshow/95862437.cms">ROG Phone 6</a> stands out as a successful example of integrating these different skins seamlessly.<br /><br />The UI has proven to be stable throughout my experience, and I have not encountered any troublesome bugs. It's important to note that this is a brand-new device running on a stable UI and an established operating system.<br /><br /><strong>Performance<br />        <div type="image" title="Geekbench 6 score for Redmi 12 5G." msid="102252114" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Geekbench 6 score for Redmi 12 5G. &amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div></strong><br />The Redmi 12 is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC, a relatively new processor in its price range, and its performance is surprisingly impressive.<br /><br />In my testing, the Redmi 12 achieved a Geekbench score of 783 for single-core performance and 1898 for multi-core performance.<br /><br />Gaming performance on the Redmi 12 is notably good. I tested it with COD: Mobile, running the game smoothly on high-quality graphics and very high frame rates. The flat display and strong internet connection contributed to a fluid gaming experience, making me feel almost invincible in the game. Even Asphalt 9 performed well, with no noticeable heating issues. However, gaming with a lower battery, especially under 25% and with maxed out settings at a 90Hz refresh rate, may lead to some warmth on the device, as the vapor chamber cooling might struggle to keep up.<br /><br />The variant I have comes with 8GB of RAM and an optional RAM boost of 4GB, which surprisingly made a difference, especially with heavier apps. The smartphone was able to handle them for longer periods without any noticeable slowdowns.<br /><br />During my two weeks of usage, the Redmi 12 demonstrated lightning-fast boot-up speeds, whether launching heavy apps or lightweight ones like calculator and weather<br /><br />As for storage, the variant with me offers 256GB of internal storage, which should be more than sufficient for most users. However, if you prefer using cloud storage solutions, the 128GB option should also be enough.<br /><br />The battery performance of the Redmi 12 Pro stands out as its strongest feature, thanks to its 5000mAh battery. On heavy usage days involving camera usage, constant social media activity, and all-day content consumption, the smartphone provided an average screen on time of 5 hours. On lighter days, where activities were limited to emails and WhatsApp, the screen time increased to about 6 hours.<br /><br /><strong>Camera<br />  <div type="image" title="The 50MP primary camera can deliver crisp images with solid HDR." msid="102327887" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;The 50MP primary camera can deliver crisp images with solid HDR.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div></strong><br />Redmi 12 5G features a dual camera set-up. The primary camera is a 50MP sensor which is paired with a dedicated portrait sensor. With the limited capacity of the sensors Redmi 12 manages to deliver a balanced optical performance. <br /><br />Starting with the strongest point – 50MP primary sensor which will surprise you if you use it meticulously.<br /><br />  <div type="image" title="The camera can successfully recognise skin tones." msid="102327891" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;The camera can successfully recognise skin tones. &amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br />  <div type="image" title="Bokeh effect tends to deliver crisp edge detection." msid="102327898" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Bokeh effect tends to deliver crisp edge detection. &amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br />I have clicked all my pictures with the 50MP mode, outdoors or indoors, and with patience, the results are stunning. In the image below, I observed that the camera tends to get the skin tones mostly right, and the AI working in real-time is not spoiling the shots.<br /><br />  <div type="image" title="Digital zoom reference image 1." msid="102327904" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Digital zoom reference image 1.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br />  <div type="image" title="At 6X digital zoom." msid="102327919" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;At 6X digital zoom. &amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br />  <div type="image" title="Details start to fall out at 10x digital zoom." msid="102327928" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Details start to fall out at 10x digital zoom.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br />We also get digital zoom here, less comprehensive than in the competition, like Nord CE3 Lite. Better yet, the camera can hold details respectably across 1X, 6X, and 10X digital zoom. <br /><br />Portrait shots from the device are decent, with the 2MP depth sensor adding value to the setup. The edge detection is satisfactory, and I also liked the black-and-white portrait shots from the camera. <br /><br />Low light performance from the camera is decent, but you will compromise on details on most days. The output can be grainy, even with the night mode on, and the prolonged post-processing of the image gets annoying. Some casual shots are not a problem, but expecting quality shots might lead to disappointment. <br /><br />The video output from the Redmi 12 maxes out at 1080P 30 fps, which is not stellar but not shabby either. Yes, it’s not meant for professionals to shoot videos, but coupled with features like dual video, your experience becomes wholesome.<br /><br />The front camera is a 8MP shooter, which holds up well. With proper lighting, the color reproduction and the details are on point, but the results dip in low lighting conditions. The AI here as well works smoothly, and the alterations here do not look fake but rather enhance the output. The edge detection in portrait mode is also spot on. <br /><br />The selfie camera can also record 1080P videos at 30fps, and the results are really good for the price, especially paired with the crisp audio output. <br /><br /><strong>Verdict</strong><br />Redmi 12 5G proves to be a solid entry level device for buyers looking at budget options. The smartphone gets the basics right with a big display, decent processor and an efficient battery life. However it does lag behind in terms of camera performance. <br /><br />However, if you can stretch your budget, then you should check out the Redmi Note 12 or the Nord CE 3 Lite. Both the devices deliver a more balanced performance without putting a dent in your pocket. <br /><br /><br /><br />

Redmi 12 5G Review - An efficient entry level device but there are compromises

New Delhi, After hacking masked credit and debit card data of crores of Juspay users, the same hacker possibly known as '<keyword id="9206309" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="shinyhunters">ShinyHunters</keyword>' is now selling databases belonging to three more Indian companies on <keyword id="1929208" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="dark-web">Dark Web</keyword>, independent cyber security researcher Rajshekhar Rajaharia claimed on Wednesday.<br /><br />According to Rajaharia who first broke the JusPay hacking, the three Indian companies are e-marketplace <keyword id="2901238" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Clickindia">ClickIndia</keyword>, <keyword id="2461546" type="DOMAIN" weightage="20" keywordseo="FinTech">fintech</keyword> startup for small business owners ChqBook and wedding planning website WedMeGood.<br /><br />"Nearly 80 lakh users of ClickIndia (name, email, mobile and other personal details), 10 lakh users of ChqBook (name, email, mobile, full address and other personal details) and 13 lakh users of WedMeGood (name, email, hashed password, other sensitive personal information)," Rajaharia told.<br /><br />Like JusPay, these three companies have also not allegedly told the users about the data breach, claimed the security researcher.<br /><br />The names of the three Indian companies were first reported by BleepingComputer website, saying that a "data breach broker is selling the allegedly stolen user records for 26 companies on a hacker forum".<br /><br />ChqBook denied the attack while the other two companies were yet to react to the report.<br /><br />According to <keyword id="10553252" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="sonit-jain">Sonit Jain</keyword>, CEO of <keyword id="9727813" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="gajshield-infotech">GajShield Infotech</keyword>, such incidents, once confirmed irrespective of data sensitivity, leaves a negative impression over the digital payment platforms. <br /><br />"Simple data like email ID and phone number which may not look sensitive can turn out to be lethal means of financial fraud at personal level, if fallen in wrong hands," Jain told.<br /><br />Bengaluru-based digital payments gateway JusPay said in an earlier statement that the company verified that their Secure Data Store, which hosts the confidential card numbers, was not accessed or compromised. <br /><br />"Thus, all our customers were secure from any kind of risk. Our priority was to inform the merchants and as a measure of abundant precaution, they were issued fresh API keys though it was later verified that even the API keys in use were safe," the company said.<br /><br />According to Rajaharia, the hacker is the same who leaked <keyword id="964794" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="BigBasket">BigBasket</keyword> data, previously reported by the cybersecurity firm Cyble. <br /><br />In November last year, one of India's popular online grocery stores BigBasket, found that its data of over 20 million users had been hacked and were on sale on the dark web for over $40,000.<br /><br />"Now, the same hacker group is asking about $10,000 in Bitcoin for the BigBasket database and is also selling the three companies' databases," Rajaharia said. <br /><br />"There is a strong connection between all these recent data leaks, including BigBasket," he added.<br /><br />US-based third-party cyber intelligence firm Cyble claimed in its official blog that though the alleged breach occurred on October 14, it detected it on October 30, validated it on October 31 and informed BigBasket on November 1.<br /><br />The user database was estimated to be about 20 million, with names, email ids, password hashes, pin, contact numbers, addresses, date of birth, location and IP addresses of login.<br /><br />JusPay on Tuesday said that about 3.5 crore records with masked card data and card fingerprint were compromised by the hacker and the claim of 10 crore cardholders' data being affected is "incorrect".<br /><br /><br /><strong>SEE ALSO:<br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/boat-raises-over-100-million-from-warburg-pincus-analysts-expect-the-headphone-brand-to-double-its-revenue-to-10-billion-this-financial-year/articleshow/80126200.cms">boAt raises over $100 million from Warburg Pincus — analysts expect the headphone brand to double its revenue to ₹10 billion this financial year</a><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/oneplus-fitness-band-india-launch-date-price-and-everything-you-need-to-know/articleshow/80129498.cms">OnePlus Band India launch date, price and everything you need to know</a><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/whatsapp-will-stop-working-if-you-do-not-agree-to-its-new-terms-and-privacy-policies/articleshow/80127866.cms">WhatsApp will stop working if you do not agree to its new terms and privacy policies</a><br /></strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/toyota-fortuner-suv-2021-launched-in-india-with-new-price-design-and-features-check-details-here/articleshow/80129932.cms"><strong>Toyota Fortuner 2021 launched at a starting price of ₹29.98 lakh — here’s all you need to know from looks to specification and features</strong></a><br />

After Juspay, ClickIndia, ChqBook and WedMeGood have been reportedly hacked — data of over 10 million users up for sale on the dark web

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5c81ad39262898784d67e904-971/screen shot 2019-03-07 at 64456 pm.png" border="0" alt="Screen Shot 2019 03 07 at 6.44.56 PM" data-mce-source="8Bitdo" data-link="http://www.8bitdo.com/zero/" /><p class="source"><span><a href="http://www.8bitdo.com/zero/">8Bitdo</a></span></p><p class="caption">A few months ago, I discovered that an Android device is actually the perfect retro gaming system.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul class="summary-list"><li>I've been a diehard Apple user for as long as I can remember, and, up until recently, I exclusively used iPhones since shortly after the first one came out in 2007.</li><li>Last November, I decided to retire my iPhone 6S and, after much deliberation, decided to give the well-reviewed OnePlus 6T and Google's Android operating system a try.</li><li>I wrote about my <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/diehard-iphone-ios-user-switches-to-android-oneplus-6t-2018-11">positive experience switching</a> to Android at the time and received dozens of e-mails from Android users telling me to wait until I realized what having an "open ecosystem" meant.</li><li>While I've found a lot of benefits to the "open ecosystem," by far the biggest revelation for me has been that I can download emulator apps for retro gaming systems like Super Nintendo, Atari, and Gameboy - apps that never would have been approved by Apple. </li></ul><p>Four months ago, I did what I previously thought was unthinkable. I gave up my iPhone. </p><p>I'd been using Apple products since I was eight and had been locked into iOS and the iPhone since a bespectacled Steve Jobs unveiled it in 2007. </p><p>The change came <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/diehard-iphone-ios-user-switches-to-android-oneplus-6t-2018-11">after much public deliberating,</a> a few close calls, and a tip from my colleague on the tech desk, Antonio Villas-Boas, who called the $580 OnePlus 6T "<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-6t-hands-on-price-release-date-specs-new-features-2018-10">the best smartphone you've never heard of</a>."</p><p>I bought the OnePlus and all of the sudden I was an Android user and ... all my friends abandoned me.</p><p>Just kidding. I talked them all into downloading WhatsApp, which <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/iphone-vs-android-imessage-ios-switch-2018-12">is admittedly is still a subpar substitute</a> for iMessage.</p><p>Immediately, there were aspects of Android I liked: The operating system's app launcher (i.e., the home screen) is changeable into any configuration you choose, with the ability to drop in widgets for the weather or multiple time zones, as well as a Google search bar. Double-tapping the power button to open the camera app was a game-changer for me as a street photographer. Notifications felt more customizable and artificial-intelligence-powered - if you keep dismissing a notification, Google picks up on that and will give you the option to stop showing it.</p><p>After publishing my article about switching, however, I kept getting e-mails from Android users telling me I hadn't even scratched the surface. I hadn't yet experienced, they said, what having a truly "open" ecosystem means.</p><p>An oversimplified definition of what people mean they <a href="https://www.howtogeek.com/217593/android-is-open-and-ios-is-closed-but-what-does-that-mean-to-you/">describe Android as "open" and iOS as "closed</a>" would be that you can do <em>almost</em> whatever you want on an Android device.</p><p>Want to install an app not on the Google Play Store? Go for it. Want to change the default address-book, e-mail client, or web browser? You can do that, too. Want to plug your phone into your computer and look through your files like any other hard drive you own? You can do that on Android - but not iOS.</p><p>The limitations on iOS go beyond that. Apple does not allow apps in the App Store they consider controversial, which includes video game emulators - likely the reason I won't ever go back to iOS.</p><p>While I'm by no means a video game junkie, I do love The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario, and other classic game series. I more or less purchased a Nintendo Switch explicitly so I could play the lastest iteration of Zelda, Breath of the Wild. I had hoped that Nintendo would release all the previous installments of the series on the Nintendo Switch, but alas, that has yet to happen.</p><p>Then, a few months ago, I discovered that an Android device is actually the perfect retro gaming system. There are <a href="https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/best-game-emulators-for-android/">over a dozen emulators</a> easily available for Android that will have you playing everything from old arcade games to Nintendo 64 games to Game Boy games in a matter of minutes.</p><p>In order to do the same on an iPhone, you have to go through the arduous process of "jailbreaking" your phone (essentially breaking the iPhone out of its closed ecosystem) or "<a href="https://lifehacker.com/the-non-jailbreakers-guide-to-emulation-on-ios-1536403860">side-loading</a>," an equally annoying process.</p><p>For comparison, I was able to download the <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.explusalpha.Snes9xPlus&amp;hl=en_US">SNES9X </a>Super Nintendo emulator directly from the Google Play store and start playing one of the greatest games of all time, The Legend of Zelda: A Link To The Past, with a few clicks. I liked it so much, I purchased <a href="http://www.8bitdo.com/zero/">a tiny Bluetooth controller</a> by 8Bitdo to play it with.</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5c42197becbeb459da41f5e3-2260/screenshot20181224-175044.jpg" border="0" alt="egyptair" data-mce-source="Harrison Jacobs/Business Insider" /><p class="source"><span>Harrison Jacobs/Business Insider</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>I'm already through four dungeons and plotting what game I'll load up when I finish. </p><p>After using an iPhone for a decade, the act of tweaking my phone to my needs felt revolutionary. And unless my family threatens to disown me over my lack of iMessage, I doubt I'll be coming back anytime soon.</p><p>For now, I'm having too much fun crushing retro games on the numerous long plane, train, and bus rides I regularly take.</p><ul class="read-more-links"><li><strong>More tips from Business Insider's international correspondent:</strong></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/diehard-iphone-ios-user-switches-to-android-oneplus-6t-2018-11" data-read-more-link="" data-e2e-name="read-more-link">I switched to Android after more than a decade with the iPhone, and I'm not going back. Here's why.</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/travel-tip-find-healthy-good-cheap-food-2018-11" data-read-more-link="" data-e2e-name="read-more-link">I use the same trick in any city I visit to make sure I find amazing food</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-use-couchsurfing-app-to-meet-locals-traveling-2018-1" data-read-more-link="" data-e2e-name="read-more-link">Couchsurfing has a hidden feature that helped me have the wildest night in Tokyo partying until sunrise</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/multicity-flights-expedia-skyscanner-mistake-2018-10" data-read-more-link="" data-e2e-name="read-more-link">I found out the hard way that one of the best strategies to save money on flights can end up costing you big time</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-travel-advice-skip-attractions-that-dont-interest-you-2018-10" data-read-more-link="" data-e2e-name="read-more-link">The single best piece of advice I can give you for any trip you take</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/travel-advice-biggest-travel-mistakes-2018-10" data-read-more-link="" data-e2e-name="read-more-link">I've traveled to more than 30 countries, and here are the dumbest mistakes I made on the road that I'll never make again</a></li></ul>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/inside-the-285-million-nyc-apartment-2019-2">Take a look inside a $28.5 million NYC apartment on Billionaires' Row</a></h3>        <div>            <iframe class="bijwplayerclass" data-player="jwplayer" src="https://content.jwplatform.com/players/CznBP7Ya-CEZHWCBG.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" style="margin:0px;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><script>function receiveMessage(event){ console.log(event.data.fullscreen); Android.fullscreen(event.data.fullscreen); }window.addEventListener("message", receiveMessage, false);</script>        </div>    </div>

I switched to Android after more than a decade with the iPhone, and retro gaming has all but ensured I'll never go back

<keyword id="790242" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="WhatsApp">WhatsApp</keyword> is one of the most popular messaging apps with over 1.5 billion monthly active users. It is also a feature-rich apps and new ones are regularly added.<br /><br />In 2019, several features were added to WhatsApp, including the recently added <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/how-to/heres-how-to-enable-fingerprint-lock-on-whatsapp-for-android/articleshow/72510955.cms">fingerprint lock</a> and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/how-to-stop-others-from-adding-you-in-a-whatsapp-group/articleshow/72488067.cms">group privacy</a> features. WhatsApp is currently working on features like <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/whatsapp-to-soon-get-dark-mode-self-destructing-messages-multiple-device-support-and-more/articleshow/72335059.cms">dark mode</a>, multi-device support, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/whatsapp-delete-messages-group-cleaning-beta/articleshow/72994888.cms">delete messages</a> and more.<br /><br />Let’s take a look at some of the features that were introduced in the stable version of WhatsApp in the year 2019.<br /><br /><strong>New features in <keyword id="7245297" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="whatsapp-in-2019">WhatsApp in 2019</keyword><br /></strong><br /><strong>Biometric authentication<br /></strong><br />WhatsApp first added biometric authentication for iOS users in February this year. It means users have the option to use Touch ID or Face ID to unlock the app. In October, the much-awaited feature was introduced for Android users in the form of a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/how-to/heres-how-to-enable-fingerprint-lock-on-whatsapp-for-android/articleshow/72510955.cms">fingerprint lock</a>.<br /><br />Some smartphone makers such as OnePlus and Xiaomi provide an app locker as a built-in feature. However, not all smartphone makers provide this feature and WA’s fingerprint lock can come in handy.<br /><br /><strong>Improved group privacy settings<br /></strong><br />The group privacy settings were spotted in the beta version of WhatsApp early in the year. Recently, the app started rolling out this feature. The new group privacy setting allows users to select who can add them to groups. Users have the option to select between ‘Everyone’, ‘My Contacts’ and ‘My Contacts Except’.<br /><br />To learn how to enable this feature, you can refer to our story on <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/how-to-stop-others-from-adding-you-in-a-whatsapp-group/articleshow/72488067.cms">group privacy settings</a>.<br /><br /><strong>Audio picker<br /></strong><br />WhatsApp rolled out the audio picker feature earlier this year that makes it easier to share multiple audio files at once. Users can also play the audio file before sending it to others. The update also introduced audio preview and image preview, allowing users to listen to the audio and view the album art of the file while selecting them.<br /><br /><strong>Group call button<br /></strong><br />After introducing group calls earlier, WhatsApp this year added a dedicated group call button to group chats. This button allows users to pick up to four participants and directly place a group call from a group chat.<br /><br /><strong>Forwarded and Frequently Forwarded labels<br /></strong><br />WhatsApp initially introduced a ‘Forwarded’ label to messages that were forwarded from one chat to another. Later, the company introduced the ‘Frequently Forwarded’ label that is added to a message that has been forwarded more than four times.<br /><br />The introduction of these labels from WhatsApp aims to fight fake news. There have been several cases where false information was shared on WhatsApp. <br /><br /><strong>Consecutive voice messages<br /></strong><br />WhatsApp added consecutive voice message feature to both, Android and iOS versions of the app. This allows users to play consecutive voice messages automatically, instead of having to play each voice message manually.<br /><br /><strong>Private reply<br /></strong><br />WhatsApp introduced the reply privately feature for groups. This allows users in groups to highlight a particular message in the group chat and reply privately to the sender of the message.<br /><br /><strong>Share WhatsApp status to Facebook<br /></strong><br />As you may already know, WhatsApp is owned by Facebook. The app recently introduced a new feature that allows users to share their WhatsApp stories to Facebook Stories. When you post a status on WhatsApp, a share to Facebook button now appears in the status tab.<br /><br /><strong>Opi stickers<br /></strong><br />Earlier this year, WhatsApp introduced a new Opi sticker pack designed by Colombian illustrator Oscar Ospina. The pack features a white colored bear expressing different emotions and includes as many as 30 stickers.<br /><br /><strong>Improved PiP mode<br /></strong><br />WhatsApp also introduced an improved picture-in-picture mode for its app on Android and iOS. This allows users to play videos from YouTube, Facebook and Instagram even after switching chats. After a recent update, users can now also play Netflix trailers using the picture-in-picture mode.<br /><br /><strong>WhatsApp Business<br /></strong><br />WhatsApp for Business was launched as a dedicated app to allow businesses to connect to their customers. It is available in India, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, the UK, and the US and is expected to rollout to other countries soon.<br /><br />The app offers several features such as catalog, quick replies, labels and chat list filtering. In addition to helping businesses, this has also helped customers to easily communicate with businesses, without having to worry about visiting a website or email.<br /><br /><strong>See also:<br /></strong><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/scammers-whatsapp-stealing-money-how-to-protect/articleshow/72976604.cms">Scammers are now using WhatsApp to steal money - here’s how you can protect yourself</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/heres-how-to-check-if-someone-has-blocked-you-on-whatsapp/articleshow/72369027.cms">How to know if someone has blocked you on WhatsApp</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/how-to-stop-others-from-adding-you-in-a-whatsapp-group/articleshow/72488067.cms">How to stop others from adding you in a WhatsApp group</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/how-to/how-to-open-whatsapp-on-laptop/articleshow/73228727.cms">How to open whatsapp</a> <br /><br /><br />

All features added to the messaging app this year

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5bfc550ff556fc02126789a6-1253/a diehard iphone user switches to the google pixel 3 xlthumb-16x9.png" border="0" alt="A diehard iPhone user switches to the Google Pixel 3 XL" data-mce-source="Clancy Morgan" data-mce-caption="Switching from the iPhone XS Max to the Google Pixel 3 XL" /><p class="source"><span>Clancy Morgan</span></p><p class="caption">I switched from iPhone to Android and I'm not looking back.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul class="summary-list"><li>I've been a diehard Apple user for as long as I can remember, and I've exclusively used iPhones since I got the original shortly after it came out in 2007.</li><li>When it came time to retire my iPhone 6S this year, I was frustrated by the high price of Apple's newest phones, the XS and the XR.</li><li>After reading about the highly-reviewed OnePlus 6T, I decided to give it - and Google's Android operating system - a try.</li><li>After three weeks, I'm in love with the the OnePlus's high-end feel for an affordable price and Android's customizability and intuitiveness. It feels fresh in a way that Apple hasn't in years - for me, at least.</li></ul><p><span>I'm what you might call a Day One Apple user. </span><span></span></p><p><span>I've used Apple products and Mac computers for as long as I can remember, from the Power Macintosh my parents had in the family room, to my first iBook, to multiple iterations of iPods. </span><span></span></p><p><span>When the first iPhone came out in 2007, I was dazzled. I saved up my earnings from my summer job at a swim club and bought it a few weeks after it hit stores. Like just about everyone else whose ever had an iPhone, I loved it. </span><span></span></p><p><span>Throughout the years, I've upgraded with semi-regularity every other year - 3GS, 4S, 5S, 6S. Each time, I toyed with the idea of trying out Android. I played with the top-of-the-line Android phones at the AT&amp;T store, read a bit about how much more "open" the ecosystem was, and then ultimately went ahead and stuck with the iPhone.</span><span></span></p><p><span>On this last cycle, though, I held out for as long as possible. My 6S was still intact after 3 years, operating with adequate speed for what I needed out of it. The new bells and whistles out of the newest generations of iPhones were rarely that astounding - 3D Touch, Face ID, a missing headphone jack - why bother upgrading? </span><span></span></p><p><span>Then my battery stopped being able to hold anything resembling a reasonable charge even after I used Apple's <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/apple-iphone-battery-replacement-program-december-2018-9">battery replacement program</a>. Calls and service started dropping regularly for seemingly no reason. </span><span></span></p><p><span>In October, I had to admit, it was time for a new phone.</span><span></span></p><h2><span><strong>Apple's newest phones feel like they provide less bang for your buck</strong></span></h2><h2><span><strong><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5bbe4e3876545340fb1473ad-1777/gettyimages-1037170224.jpg" border="0" alt="iPhone XS" data-mce-source="Spencer Platt/Getty Images" /><p class="source"><span>Spencer Platt/Getty Images</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></strong></span></h2><p><span>As I looked at Apple's options, I had the creeping feeling that there just wasn't a lot of value to be had. The top-of-the-line options -  the iPhone X and its successor, the XS - felt ridiculously priced at $999.</span><span></span></p><p><span>As I <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/travel-bucket-list-ideas-destinations-around-the-world-tour-trip-2018-8">travel constantly for work</a>, I needed an unlocked phone that works with any carrier. This meant I wasn't going to be using a carrier's locked-in upgrade program to pay off the phone in pieces. I'd be paying the full price upfront, so I could use it with any carrier, just about anywhere in the world. </span></p><p><span>Regardless of the fact that smartphones these days are more akin to mini-computers with cameras-attached, $900 or $1000 for a phone seemed absurd. Particularly so, when it feels like they rarely last more than two years. My digital cameras, at least, stay relevant for five years or more.</span><span></span></p><p><span>Apple's cheaper option at $599, the i<a href="https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-iphone/iphone-8">Phone 8,</a> was more or less a marginal improvement over my then-current phone, the 6S. The XR, the option right below the XS, still cost $750 minimum, which is still a lot of money. </span><span></span></p><p><span>My choices seemed to be pay an arm-and-a-leg for a great phone, or pay $599 for a slightly newer version of the phone I already owned.</span><span></span></p><p><span>I felt like Apple had forced my hand. I can't be the only one.</span><span></span></p><h2><span><strong>First, I tried a budget Android phone and found that even a $300 phone can do just about everything an average person wants</strong></span><span></span></h2><p><span><strong><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5b3b8a5770e2911e008b473f-1013/dsc01498.png" border="0" alt="moto g6" data-mce-source="Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider" /><p class="source"><span>Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">The Moto G6</p></div><p></p></div></div></strong></span></p><p><span>I started looking at other options from - gasp! - Android phone manufacturers. </span></p><p><span>At first, I looked at the budget options and settled on the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Moto-G6-Unlocked-T-Mobile-Exclusive/dp/B07C38BKCD">Moto G6 for $230</a>, which many say is the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/motorola-moto-g6-review-2018-7">top budget phone right now.</a> I ordered the phone on Amazon thanks to its easy return policy, and switched over when the phone arrived two days later. </span><span></span></p><p><span>It took a few hours to get my phone operating how I like, with the requisite apps and settings tweaked, but truthfully it was easier than I thought it would be. I'd already been using Google Photos for backup for the last year or so, my email runs through Gmail, and just about every other major app I use operates in the cloud (Lightroom, Instagram, WeChat, WhatsApp, Spotify, etc). All I had to do was re-download all my apps and log in.</span><span></span></p><p><span>Even at $230, the phone was way faster than my 6S and could handle every app I threw at it. The reality is, unless you are trying to run graphics-intensive games, just about any smartphone you pick these days will run just fine.</span></p><p><em><strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/motorola-moto-g6-review-2018-7"><span style="color: #000000;">I barely noticed a difference while I was using this $250 smartphone after using $800 phones for years</span></a></em></p><p><span>As I used the phone over the course of a week, I kept finding little things that I loved about Android.</span></p><p><span>Double-tapping the power-button to open the camera app is a game-changer for me as a street photographer. It makes getting elusive shots that much more possible.</span></p><p><span>The operating system's app launcher (i.e. the home-screen) is changeable into any configuration you choose, with the ability to drop in widgets for weather, multiple time zones, and a Google search bar. </span><span></span></p><p><span>Any Android user is going to laugh at this, but for an iPhone user used to the endless grids of apps, it's a huge improvement. Apple hasn't really updated the look of iOS in years. You can say, <em>if it ain't broke, don't fix it</em>, but there's something to be said for trying out new ideas.</span><span></span></p><p><span>I've noticed other helpful tweaks.</span></p><p><span>Notifications feel more customizable and AI-powered. If you keep dismissing a notification, Google picks up on that and will give you the option to stop showing them. That saves me the time of going in directly into my settings and individually configuring each app's notifications. </span><span></span></p><p><span>I'm sure iOS users can sympathize: at a certain point in my iPhone use, I never even looked at the notifications screen anymore because it was so cluttered with information I didn't need and never asked for. </span><span></span></p><p><span>And that's without getting into how useful and accurate Google Assistant is. While it's not quite at the level of accuracy as Amazon's Alexa, it's much better than Siri, though I admit that I'm still getting used to the Google Assistant. </span></p><h2><span><strong>But the budget phone's camera was lackluster so I decided to try out the 'best kept secret' in smartphones - the OnePlus 6T</strong></span></h2><p><span><strong><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5bfc4a55c957017c470b6bae-1998/img20180625175505930.jpg" border="0" alt="moto g6 low light camera" data-mce-source="Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider" /><p class="source"><span>Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">A photo taken by the Moto G6 in low light.</p></div><p></p></div></div></strong></span></p><p><span>The Achilles' Heel for the Moto G6 was the camera. There was no way around it. </span><span></span></p><p><span>The phone's camera was not even comparable with my 3-year-old 6S's camera, let alone one of Apple's newer phones. It's hard to be mad about that for a $230 phone, but, as an avid photographer, I wasn't going to be happy long term.</span><span></span></p><p><span>That's when I heard about OnePlus from my colleague on the tech desk, Antonio Villas-Boas, who called the Chinese company's wares "<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-6t-review-2018-11/">the best smartphones you've never heard of</a>."</span><span></span></p><p><span>While I had never heard of the company, OnePlus has been building up a loyal base of fervent customers for its high-end, but affordable phones over the last five years. The company has just released its latest iteration, the OnePlus 6T, in October, to rave reviews, including from my colleague. </span><span></span></p><p><span>At $580, it was more expensive than the G6, but still cheaper than just about every iPhone. And, reviews were saying that despite the phone's price, it  could compete</span><span> with flagship smartphones like the iPhone X or the Google Pixel.</span><span></span></p><p><span>"</span><span>I feel like I'm cheating with a smartphone that costs $550 at its base and does everything I want it to do just as well as the other top phones I've tried this year," Villas-Boas <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-6t-review-2018-11/">wrote in October</a>.</span><span></span></p><p><span>I decided to give it a try. </span><span></span></p><h2><span><strong>The OnePlus performs like a $900 phone at a fraction of the price</strong></span><span></span></h2><p><span><strong><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5bd9fa7a0591f23b5d492f85-1756/oneplus-6t-bokeh.jpg" border="0" alt="OnePlus 6T bokeh" data-mce-source="Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider" /><p class="source"><span>Antonio Villas-Boas/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">The OnePlus 6T</p></div><p></p></div></div></strong></span></p><p><span>After about three weeks of using the phone, I have to agree with the reviewers. The OnePlus 6T is that good. It's fast, has most of the premium features as pricier phones like the iPhone X and the Pixel, and even carries some spiffy new tech like its in-display fingerprint sensor.</span></p><p><em><strong>Read More: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-6t-review-2018-11/">The $550 OnePlus 6T makes me feel like I'm cheating in a world where top smartphones cost $750 or more</a></strong></em></p><p><span>Still, I was worried about was how the camera would perform. </span><span></span></p><p><span>Around the same time I bought the 6T, my girlfriend purchased the iPhone XR. As we've been traveling over the last month, we've been comparing shots as we go. While I wouldn't say the 6T is clearly better than the XR's camera, it is a very competitive race. There are lighting situations where the XR outperforms the 6T and other times where the 6T outperforms the XR. </span><span></span></p><p><span>Most of the time, it's a matter of taste. The 6T's images tend to be more saturated and with deeper blacks, whereas shots from the XR tends to have more detail. </span><span></span></p><p><span>But then I discovered one of the joys of using Android: the openness of the platform and its community of super-fans. On the OnePlus subreddit, I discovered that some crafty developers <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/oneplus/comments/9mw4jz/gcam_for_op6/">had brought over Google's proprietary GCam app</a> that, on the Pixel, has been said to be<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/google-pixel-3-pixel-3-xl-hands-on-first-impressions-2018-10"> the best smartphone camera around</a>.</span></p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5bfc4f69c957017c470b6bd6-2000/img20181121175724.jpg" border="0" alt="night shot oneplus 6t" data-mce-source="Harrison Jacobs/Business Insider" data-link="https://www.instagram.com/harrisonxjacobs" /><p class="source"><span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/harrisonxjacobs">Harrison Jacobs/Business Insider</a></span></p><p class="caption">A shot taken at night in Dubai with the OnePlus 6T using GCam. That's the moon in the background.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p><span>While I don't use GCam all or most of the time due to the fact that the app isn't exactly stable - complications of not being an official, Google-sanctioned version of the app  - I've been using it for special situations like at night. The GCam's night-mode combined with the OnePlus 6T's camera blows the XR out of the water. It's crazy good. </span><span></span></p><p><span>And just the act of tweaking the phone to my needs felt fun in a way my iPhone hadn't in years. </span><span></span></p><h2><span><strong>I've found one big problem with switching from iOS to Android - giving up iMessage</strong></span><span></span></h2><p><span><strong><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/59c2c63b38d20d7f378b853d-1200/8.jpg" border="0" alt="iMessage iOS 11" data-mce-source="Apple" /><p class="source"><span>Apple</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></strong></span></p><p><span>For an iOS user switching over, the biggest hurdle that I have found is iMessage. Apple did a sneaky, smart thing embedding its locked-in messaging system into the default SMS app. </span></p><p><span>With most of my friends and family on iOS - and everyone seemingly allergic to the "green bubbles" - I suddenly found myself in the unenviable position of trying to convince my immediate circle to use WhatsApp.</span><span></span></p><p><span>The more I use Android, the more I am convinced that iMessage is the only major difference between the operating systems. Of course, there are others, ranging from the Apple iCloud service to the generally better security of Apple's OS, but the most visible barrier for most iOS users is having to give up iMessage. </span><span></span></p><p><span>And I won't lie: it's a pain. While I don't mind WhatsApp, iMessage definitely feels like a smoother and cleaner messaging service. At this point, if there is something that's going to drag me back to iOS in a few years, it will probably be that. </span></p><p><span>But, for right now, I have no regrets about switching. It's been delightful. </span></p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/cooked-entire-thanksgiving-dinner-using-google-home-hub-2018-11">I tried cooking an entire Thanksgiving dinner using Google Home Hub and found there are two major flaws with it</a></h3>        <div>            <iframe class="bijwplayerclass" data-player="jwplayer" src="https://content.jwplatform.com/players/PMUC6BwZ-CEZHWCBG.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" style="margin:0px;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><script>function receiveMessage(event){ console.log(event.data.fullscreen); Android.fullscreen(event.data.fullscreen); }window.addEventListener("message", receiveMessage, false);</script>        </div>    </div>

I switched to Android after more than a decade on iPhone and I'm not going back. Here's why

<p class="financial-disclaimer"><i>When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. <a href="https://www.insider-inc.com/commerce-on-insider-inc/">Learn more.</a></i></p><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-iphone%2Fiphone-see-se" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"></a></p><ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="6354427" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="apple">Apple</keyword>'s $400 <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-iphone%2Fiphone-see-se" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">iPhone SE</a> is powered by the same processor inside the iPhone 11 and 11 Pro, making it a compelling option for those on a budget that don't want to sacrifice performance.</li><li>It has largely the same design as Apple's iPhone 8 from 2017, meaning it's the only iPhone to come with a Touch ID home button and a smaller 4.7-inch screen.</li><li>It's a great value for Apple loyalists who just want a phone that feels fast and new and don't necessarily care about having all of the latest features.</li><li>That being said, there are plenty of similarly-priced Android competitors that have more to offer when it comes to camera features, screen size, and quality.</li></ul><p>The <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-iphone%2Fiphone-see-se" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">iPhone SE</a> may look very familiar to anyone who has purchased an iPhone in 2016 or 2017, but there are plenty of characteristics that make it feel much different than any ordinary iPhone launch.</p><p>For starters, at $400 it's significantly cheaper than any other iPhones Apple currently sells. It also debuted in April even though Apple typically releases new iPhones in the fall. Plus, it lacks the edge-to-edge screen design that's become a hallmark of Apple's <keyword id="6354775" type="TECHNOLOGY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Smartphones">smartphones</keyword> in recent years — even on cheaper models, like the $600 iPhone XR.</p><p>And, while Apple typically holds flashy press events to introduce new products, especially iPhones, it rolled out the <keyword id="3262611" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="iPhone-SE">iPhone SE</keyword> quietly online — a necessity given that the COVID-19 pandemic is making it impossible to assemble large groups.</p><p>That's all fitting for the iPhone SE, which after all is designed to be a "special edition" smartphone from Apple. Unlike last year's iPhone 11 family and the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/apple-iphone-12-rumors-5g-release-camera-specs-2019-6">rumored upcoming iPhone 12</a>, the iPhone SE isn't meant to introduce attention-grabbing new features and technological advancements. Rather, it's designed to carry the message that there's a new iPhone for everyone, even those who can't afford to spend $700 or more on a new smartphone.</p><p>The iPhone SE's biggest asset is its A13 Bionic processor, the same powerful chip that drives the iPhone 11 and 11 Pro. That comes wrapped in a 4.7-inch design that looks and feels much like the iPhone 8, meaning yes, the iPhone SE is the first new iPhone to come with a Touch ID home button since 2017's iPhone 8.</p><p>While the iPhone SE certainly has a lot going for it, the phone is launching at a time when there's more competition than ever in the market for affordable smartphones. Some of those devices are even more feature-rich than the iPhone SE, particularly when it comes to the camera and display, even if they may not be quite as powerful.</p><p>Here's a closer look at what it's been like to use the iPhone SE after spending several days with the device.</p><h2><keyword id="9003722" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="iPhone-SE-2020">iPhone SE 2020</keyword> specs</h2><ul><li><strong>Display size and resolution</strong>: 4.7 inches, 1,334 x 750</li><li><strong>Processor</strong>: A13 Bionic</li><li><strong>Rear camera</strong>: 12-megapixel with f/1.8 aperture</li><li><strong>Front camera</strong>: 7-megapixel with f/2.2 aperture</li><li><strong>Storage</strong>: 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB</li><li><strong>Biometric authentication</strong>: Touch ID home button</li><li><strong>Durability</strong>: IP67 water and dust resistance (1 meter up to 30 minutes)</li></ul><h2>Design and display</h2><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-iphone%2Fiphone-see-se" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="iPhone SE and iPhone 8" height="2573" width="3430" msid="75439320" hostid="261"></div></a></p><p>Compared to the iPhone 11 and 2018's iPhone XS, the iPhone SE looks vintage. It's the most compact iPhone in years, and after spending the last several months using the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro, it's a welcome throwback.</p><p>In terms of its size, weight, and appearance, the iPhone SE is nearly identical to the iPhone 8. The biggest differences are in the iPhone SE's color choices and the positioning of the Apple logo on the back of the device.</p><p>It's an aesthetic that those in need of an upgrade who are reluctant to give up their iPhone 6S or iPhone 7 will surely appreciate. At a time when smartphones have become increasingly large and at times unwieldy, the iPhone SE is refreshingly simple. It feels much easier to manage with one hand, and legacy iPhone owners also won't have to worry about learning new swipe gestures to replace the home button.</p><p>As much as I enjoy unlocking my iPhone just by looking at it, I've really come to appreciate having Touch ID again. Being able to rest my finger on the iPhone's home button to unlock it sometimes felt more convenient than using Face ID.</p><p>For example, Touch ID allows me to quickly unlock my phone to see more details about a notification without picking it up, unlike Face ID. At a time when many people like myself are wearing protective masks and coverings over their face before leaving the house, being able to quickly access my phone without facial recognition has been very helpful.</p><p>My only complaint about the iPhone SE's design is that it feels a bit antiquated. I love the convenience of having a smaller iPhone with Touch ID, but the chunky bezels above and below the SE's display do feel a bit outdated. Other smartphone makers, like Samsung, have launched devices around the same price as the iPhone SE that have larger, borderless screens.</p><p>The iPhone SE has a 4.7-inch screen with a 1,344 x 750 resolution and Apple's True Tone for adjusting colors based on surrounding lighting  just like the iPhone 8. Like every other iPhone that Apple currently sells except for the 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max, the iPhone SE's screen is made from an LCD panel rather than an OLED display. OLED screens typically offer better contrast and deeper black tones, but they're usually found on more expensive devices.  </p><h2>Performance</h2><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-iphone%2Fiphone-see-se" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="iphone SE front" height="3024" width="4032" msid="75439321" hostid="261"></div></a></p><p>Apple's iPhone SE may be tiny, but it packs a lot of power. The phone runs on Apple's A13 Bionic processor, the same chip found inside the $700 iPhone 11, $1,000 iPhone 11 Pro, and $1,100 iPhone 11 Pro Max. Apple says the chipset is built for real-time video and photo analysis and can perform 1 trillion operations per second.</p><p>The A13 Bionic is the biggest part of what makes the iPhone SE so appealing. It means the iPhone SE is equipped to handle almost everything the iPhone 11 and 11 Pro can, except for the features and applications that take advantage of the multi-lens cameras on those pricier iPhones. That's important because it suggests the iPhone SE won't quickly feel outdated since it runs on Apple's newest mobile processor.</p><p>This is what gives the iPhone SE a big advantage over some well-received Android rivals. <keyword id="6355629" type="DEFINITION" weightage="60" keywordseo="google">Google</keyword>'s $400 Pixel 3a, for example, earned praise for the fact that it brought one of the Pixel 3's most compelling features — Night Mode, which takes clear photos in the dark — at an unusually low price. But, it runs on an older Qualcomm processor from 2018 that was designed for less expensive smartphones. The same can be said for Motorola's Moto Z4, which is currently available for $400 and offers a range of appealing features, like a border-free screen and 48-megapixel camera. That phone, too, runs on an older Qualcomm processor built for relatively inexpensive phones.</p><p>The iPhone SE certainly offered snappy performance during my experience with it. It is able to render a 4K one-minute video clip in iMovie in about 18 seconds, unsurprisingly beating the more than 2-year-old iPhone 8, which takes roughly 45 seconds. What does surprise me though, is that the iPhone SE manages to render this clip even faster than the $1,400 Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra does when exporting a 4K clip of the same length. Samsung's phone, by comparison, takes about 31 seconds.</p><p>Another area in which I noticed the iPhone SE's more powerful performance was when running certain augmented reality apps. While I don't notice much of a difference between the iPhone SE and iPhone 8 with some apps, like the AR storytelling app Wonderscope or the science education app Atlas, the iPhone SE is much faster while functioning as a digital tape measure. The iPhone SE is able to detect new surfaces and adapt instantly when using Apple's Measure app, whereas the iPhone 8 sometimes struggles to adjust immediately as I pan the phone's camera around my apartment.</p><p>The iPhone SE seems more powerful on paper as well. It earned higher scores on the Geekbench 5 benchmark than the iPhone 8 and Google Pixel 4. Geekbench runs a series of tests that claim to measure a processor's single-core and multi-core performance to evaluate how they hold up during real-world, everyday tasks like checking email and streaming music. </p><p>After running the app's CPU test multiple times, the iPhone SE scored between 1,326 and 1,332 on Geekbench's test of a single processing core, and between 3,102 and 3,331 on a test that evaluates how multiple processing cores perform. The iPhone 8, by comparison, scored between 921 and 931 on the single core test and between 2,248 and 2,328 on the multi-core test, while the Pixel 4 scored 730 on the single core test and 2,445 on the multi-core version. </p><p>The OnePlus 8 Pro and Galaxy S20 Ultra performed roughly the same as and in some cases better than the iPhone SE when it came to the multi-core test. The S20 Ultra, for example, scored between 886 and 907 on the single core test and between 3,301 and 3,282 on the multi-core test, while the OnePlus 8 Pro scored 894 on the single core test and 3,322 on the multi-core test.</p><p>But, the iPhone SE still scored the highest of all the devices on Geekbench's single core test. </p><h2>Camera</h2><p>The iPhone SE's camera system is similar to that of the iPhone XR; it has a single 12-megapixel camera and a 7-megapixel selfie camera. The biggest differences between the iPhone SE's camera and the iPhone XR's is that the former comes with more lighting effects for Portrait Mode (six versus the XR's three effects) and a newer version of Apple's high dynamic range technology.</p><p>The iPhone 8 also has a single 12-megapixel camera and a 7-megapixel front camera, but lacks Portrait Mode and Apple's Smart HDR, a technology that should be better at capturing details, highlights, and shadows.</p><p>The iPhone SE takes crisp, colorful photos that in some cases looked superior to those taken with the iPhone 8 and in others seemed about the same. Apple's top-of-the-line camera on the iPhone 11 Pro, which features a triple-lens 12-megapixel setup, sometimes appears to capture images with better contrast, color, and detail compared to the iPhone SE. But, in other instances, such as when photographing colorful flowers, all three phones capture similar images.</p><p>Take a look at the images below, which were shot on the iPhone SE, iPhone 8, and iPhone 11 Pro. You'll notice the photos taken with the SE and 8 are fairly similar, while the iPhone 11 Pro's offer a bit more detail, contrast, and slightly bolder colors.</p><h3>iPhone SE</h3><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-iphone%2Fiphone-see-se" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="iPhone SE Park" height="3024" width="4032" msid="75439322" hostid="261"></div></a></p><h3>iPhone 8</h3><p><div type="image" title="iPhone 8 Park" height="3024" width="4032" msid="75439324" hostid="261"></div></p><h3>iPhone 11 Pro</h3><p><div type="image" title="iPhone 11 Pro Park" height="3024" width="4032" msid="75439325" hostid="261"></div></p><p>Other than the additional lenses on the iPhone 11 — which features both a wide and ultra-wide lens, and the iPhone 11 Pro — which has wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses —the biggest feature missing from the iPhone SE is Night Mode. As its name implies, this means the iPhone SE isn't as well equipped to take photos in the dark as the iPhone 11 and 11 Pro, as shown below.</p><h3>iPhone SE</h3><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-iphone%2Fiphone-see-se" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="iPhone SE Low Light Cat" height="3024" width="4032" msid="75439327" hostid="261"></div></a></p><h3>iPhone 8</h3><p><div type="image" title="iPhone 8 Low Light Cat" height="3024" width="4032" msid="75439328" hostid="261"></div></p><h3>iPhone 11 Pro</h3><p><div type="image" title="iPhone 11 Pro Low Light Cat" height="3024" width="4032" msid="75439330" hostid="261"></div></p><p>The iPhone SE may not have all the bells and whistles of the iPhone 11 or 11 Pro's camera. But, it's more than capable enough for those who just want a phone that can take high-quality photos and don't necessarily care about the extra flexibility that the 11 and 11 Pro offer.</p><p>Still, some low-cost Android phones have more to offer when it comes to camera functionality, like the Pixel 3a, which has Google's Night Sight technology for taking photos in the dark. Samsung's $400 Galaxy A51 also has a quad-lens camera with depth, ultra-wide, and macro lenses in addition to the standard wide lens.</p><h2>Battery life</h2><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-iphone%2Fiphone-see-se" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="iphone se 2" height="600" width="800" msid="75439331" hostid="261"></div></a></p><p>You can probably expect to get about a day's worth of battery life out of the iPhone SE, depending on how you use your device.</p><p>During most work days — which entails frequently checking notifications, leaving the screen on for long periods of time, making phone calls, and recording audio on my phone — the iPhone SE lasts from the early morning until the late afternoon or early evening before I have to plug it in. But, on the weekend, when I'm mostly using my phone to occasionally check email and social media, I am able to get through an entire day without having to charge it.</p><p>Comparatively, most flagship smartphones I've tested, like the iPhone 11 Pro, typically last for more than a day on a single charge. As always, it's worth noting that the apps you use and the settings you implement on your phone can impact battery life, so results may vary.</p><h2>The bottom line</h2><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apple.com%2Fshop%2Fbuy-iphone%2Fiphone-see-se" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored"><div type="image" title="iPhone Se touch Id" height="1096" width="1526" msid="75439333" hostid="261"></div></a></p><p>The $400 iPhone SE is an ideal choice for Apple devotees looking for a reliable smartphone that won't break the bank. Since it runs on Apple's A13 Bionic chip, you won't have to worry about sacrificing performance or purchasing a smartphone that will soon feel out of date compared to the latest flagship models.</p><p>Those who prefer smaller phones, don't want to spend a lot of money, and aren't thrilled about giving up their aging iPhone's Touch ID home button will probably love the SE.</p><p>That being said, the budget smartphone market has become increasingly competitive over the last year. Those who aren't partial to Apple have plenty of compelling Android alternatives at their disposal, some of which offer more camera features and modern edge-to-edge screen designs even if they run on chips that may not be as powerful or new as the A13 Bionic. Google's Pixel 3a and Samsung's Galaxy A51 are two such examples.</p><p>The iPhone SE doesn't have a lot of the extras I've come to appreciate on Apple's newer iPhones, like the 11 and 11 Pro's ultra-wide-angle camera or a borderless screen. But, at $400, it has just about everything you would want from a quality smartphone: a solid camera with Portrait Mode, decent battery life, and compact, attractive design.</p><p><strong>Pros:</strong> Powerful A13 Bionic processor, compact size, only iPhone with a home button and fingerprint sensor, effective camera for the price<br /><strong>Cons:</strong> Design feels a bit old, lacking some camera features compared to similarly priced Android phones</p><iframe src="https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5e98c797b3b09215832290f4&amp;type=small&amp;live=true" width="100%" height="150%" frameborder="0" style="position:absolute; top:0; left: 0"></iframe>Read the original article on <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/apple-iphone-se-review">Business Insider</a>

Apple's new $400 iPhone SE is a tiny but powerful device that's perfect for people who hate large phones and just want the basics

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container float_right click-to-enlarge"><div class="image"><a title_source="Steve Kovach/Business Insider" title_caption="" class="zoomin" href="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5470b84aecad045c25190831-960/oneplus-one-android-phone-12.jpg"><span class="sprites click-to-enlarge-icon" title="Click to enlarge"></span><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5470b84aecad045c25190831-1200-924/oneplus-one-android-phone-12.jpg?maxX=800" border="0" alt="oneplus one android phone" width="800" /></a><p class="source"><span>Steve Kovach/Business Insider</span></p></div><p></p></div>OnePlus, the Chinese startup behind the incredibly popular and hard-to-find One smartphone, is already working on its successor, as <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-2-release-date-2014-9">the company confirmed in September. </a></p><p>Now, we're hearing that it will come with a fingerprint sensor, according to a person familiar with the matter.</p><p>This person described the fingerprint sensor as being "better than Touch ID," but didn't reveal any additional details. </p><p>We also heard that the company's next phone would be more expensive than the One, but still less costly than other flagship smartphones.</p><p>A main reason the One became so popular is because it's cheap - it only costs $300 unlocked, and it comes with a 5.5-inch high resolution screen and some of the same internal components you'd find in a $500 smartphone. It also ships with Cyanogen, which is a version of Android that's cleaner and adds more features than Google's version. Most high-end smartphones cost between $500 and $700 unlocked. </p><p>You can't buy the phone unless you get an invite from someone who already has it, <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-one-phone-invite-2015-2">except for on Tuesdays</a>. The phone proved to be so popular last year that after my colleague <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-one-review-2014-6">Steve Kovach reviewed it</a>, <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-one-invites-2014-6">he received tons of emails from readers </a>asking how to get an invite. </p><p>The next OnePlus phone will be different than the One in several ways, though. Other than its new fingerprint sensor, a person familiar with the situation previously told us <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-two-design-price-2015-3">it will come with a metal frame</a> and that there are "surprises" in store when it comes to hardware. It'll be <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/oneplus-2-details-release-price-2014-11">more customizable</a>, too, as a person familiar with OnePlus' plans also said the company is trying to produce more StyleSwap back covers to coincide with the second phone's launch. </p><p>Based on what we've heard, it sounds like OnePlus is making improvements that will help its next phone better compete with high-end phones like the Galaxy S6 and the iPhone. </p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/iphone-power-user-hacks-apple-tricks-2015-3">5 hard-to-find iPhone tricks only power users know about</a></h3>        <div>            <div>    <script src="http://player.ooyala.com/v3/6e12e8b3387a44daacfb73afba25a76e"></script>    <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="dzb3ZxczpW1JgYelTy6QXfo_lrpK_Xyi" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div>    <script>    if (typeof RunFunctions === 'undefined') { var RunFunctions = []; }     RunFunctions.push(function()    {         var ooyalapopvideo = OO.Player.create('ooyalaplayer_popvideo', 'dzb3ZxczpW1JgYelTy6QXfo_lrpK_Xyi',{ autoplay: 'false' });     });    </script>    <noscript><div>Please enable Javascript to watch this video</div></noscript></div>        </div>        <script>(function() { function createPlayer() { OO.ready(function() { RunFunctions.forEach(function(ooyalaFunction) { ooyalaFunction(); }); RunFunctions = [];}); } createPlayer(); }()); </script>    </div>

The sequel to one of the best Android phones of 2014 will have a fingerprint sensor that's 'better' than the iPhone's

<p>Google has been making phones for years, but you probably didn't know that.</p><p>You're forgiven if you didn't, of course, given that Google doesn't take the same traditional approach in selling its phones. They're not sold in stores, they typically receive little-to-no promotion in advertising, and Google announces them with relatively low-key events - a stark contrast to how Apple handles its phones, for instance. </p><p>And that's especially strange, because Google's phones are <em>excellent</em>. Better than your new iPhone (in my opinion), better than your new Galaxy S-whatever, and less expensive too.</p><p>There are two new Google phones this year, and they're <a href="http://www.techinsider.io/google-nexus-5x-preview-2015-10">arguably the best phones on the market</a>. I'm using the smaller one, dubbed the Nexus 5X, and it's genuinely amazing. It's fast. It's innovative. It's clean and simple and intuitive. It takes great photos and has a battery life on par with or better than most phones on the market.</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5625396cdd0895bd698b46e0-1200-834/nexux5x_1.jpg" alt="Nexus 5X" data-mce-source="Ben Gilbert / Tech Insider" /><p class="source"><span>Ben Gilbert / Tech Insider</span></p><p class="caption">The Nexus 5X, looking sleek and basic.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>So, why haven't you heard of it? Rather, why isn't Google selling this great phone (and its bigger sister, the Nexus 6P) in stores? </p><p>Sadly, there's no clear answer to that, but it seems like Google's goal isn't to recreate the success of the iPhone. Instead, it wants to set an example for all the other companies out there making Android phones.</p><h2><strong>The Google Answer: These are "reference" devices</strong></h2><p>The first step in my journey to understand why Google seemingly hides its amazing phones from the consumer public was to ask Google. Here's what a Google rep told Tech Insider:</p><p style="padding-left: 30px;">The Nexus program is our effort to push what's possible in hardware design while unlocking the ideal software experience. It's Google's take on the total user experience including hardware and software, the retail experience, frequency of security updates (monthly) and ongoing software updates (for two years). Over the years, we've launched the Nexus One, 4, 5, 6, 5X and 6P smartphones as well as the Nexus 7 and 10 tablets, and Nexus Player Android TV. Since Nexus is built by the same people who build the OS working closely with partners, we think these devices serve as a beacon to show the industry what's possible.</p><p>That's a long way of saying, "We make these devices to set an example of what an Android phone is capable of." Google demonstrates "the total user experience" by working with manufacturers to create a phone (hardware), puts the absolute latest version of a totally stock Android operating system on it (software), and only sells the device through its online store (retail). </p><p>Huh, that sounds familiar.</p><p>And that's because it's the same way Apple builds the iPhone: Apple makes the hardware, Apple makes the software, Apple has stores to sell you the iPhone, Apple issues software updates. It's a complete, end-to-end solution for consumers, and it's often a better experience than buying literally any Android phone. It's no surprise that Apple sells so many iPhones - Apple makes its largest portion of profits from selling the iPhone, actually. <a href="http://www.techinsider.io/apple-is-a-computer-company-2015-10">Apple's basically in the phone business</a>.</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/561557afdd0895d44f8b4768-944-643/applefinancialsq32015.jpg" alt="Apple Q3 2015 earnings" data-mce-source="Apple" /><p class="source"><span>Apple</span></p><p class="caption">Look no further for proof of the tremendous amount of money Apple's making by selling iPhones.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>But if the Nexus phones are reference devices meant to demonstrate just how good Android phones can be, why aren't any phone companies taking note? </p><p>The closest you can get to Google-made phones is the OnePlus Two or the Moto X line - phones with nearly pure, unadulterated Android that are sold directly to consumers by their respective makers. Meanwhile, the most popular Android phone makers like Samsung, LG, and Xiaomi, load up their versions of Android with "bloatware": apps that you can't erase that often duplicate other, better apps. Samsung makes its own email app, its own calendar app, its own text messaging app, etc., despite the fact that Google makes better versions of all of those that are built into Android, for example.</p><p>And why do Samsung, LG, and the rest do this?</p><p>Because, so the logic goes, this is how companies offer "customized" versions of Android. In so many words: if they all used stock Android, what would differentiate their phones from the competition? You might've answered, "Well, one of them could try to make a better phone than the others and win that way." And you'd be right!</p><p>But these companies apparently don't agree with your very logical argument.</p><h2>Google doesn't want to compete with - and beat - the Samsungs and LGs of the world in the phone market</h2><p>There's another popular argument that people often cite when discussing Google's excellent phones and their lack of market visibility: Google doesn't want to eat the lunch of the companies that take Android and make it their own. </p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/562d3c0ddd0895eb378b464c-4464-1920/notifications.png" alt="notifications on different android phones" data-mce-source="Screenshots" /><p class="source"><span>Screenshots</span></p><p class="caption">On the far left is the simple, basic notifications panel on the Nexus 5X. The other three are the messy ones on Samsung, LG and HTC phones.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>The logic here is that, if Google competes directly with Android phone makers, it risks pushing those phone makers to stop using Android. And if those companies stop using Android, that could mean less money for Google when people uses baked-in Google services like search or buy apps and other content from the Google Play store.</p><p>This is a bad argument for a few reasons:</p><ol><li><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">There are no other operating systems with anywhere near the reach of Google's Android. People who like Android are pretty unlikely to learn a whole new operating system so they can keep using their Samsung phone, and phone makers are unlikely to build their own. Likewise, app developers are unlikely to re-release their apps on yet another mobile phone platform.</span></li><li><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">No phone makers have another operating system to use at scale, even if they were to abandon Android. Samsung has Tizen, and Mozilla makes a Firefox OS - have you ever heard of either? Didn't think so.</span></li><li><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/goldman-sachs-says-android-is-making-google-very-little-money-2015-4">Google simply doesn't make that much money from Android</a>. </span></li><li><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">Google can afford to be competitive - arguably, making the best Android phone and competing directly with the likes of LG and Samsung would push those companies to make better products. And those products are Android phones!</span></li></ol><h2>So, why does Google make phones?</h2><p>Maybe it's just to make tech writers look like nutcases. I used iPhones for years: first the 3G, then the 4, then the 5, then the 6. Somewhere in there, I used a Nexus 5 for six months and fell in love. It was a phone with flaws, but one of the best phones I've ever used.</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/562d3c0ddd0895eb378b464d-1690-1268/nexii2.png" alt="Google Nexus 5X and 6P" data-mce-source="Antonio Villas-Boas/Tech Insider" /><p class="source"><span>Antonio Villas-Boas/Tech Insider</span></p></div><p></p></div></div>The Nexus 5X is a continuation of my brief love affair with the Nexus 5, only this time the camera is fantastic and the battery is much more reliable. Yet, outside of it being a reference device for other Android phones, the Nexus 5X (and the 6P) are frustratingly hard to purchase. After all this bloviating, you basically have to take my word on how good this phone is - there's no way to walk into a store and just try the thing. You have to buy it on blind faith. That's not what I'd call an ideal experience.</p><p>Google sees its online purchase process as a testing ground for its vision of the future of retail. Here's the answer Google gave Tech Insider when we asked why the phones aren't available in stores:</p><p style="padding-left: 30px;">...the phones are available on the Google Store in 24 countries and in many more countries with the major carriers and retailers internationally. We're focusing on building the recently introduced Google Store to be our go-to destination to help people find and buy our products as well as the accessories that work best with them.</p><p>That's a similar strategy other manufacturers use too. Chinese smartphone makers OnePlus and Xiaomi almost exclusively sell their phones online, and they're very popular. Google seems to believe selling phone exclusively online could work out in the end too. Last week, it started running a ad campaign promoting the new Nexus phones during big events like the MLB playoffs and NFL games.</p><p>But I still prefer to try before I buy, and the online Google Store is the only way to buy the new Google phones. And that, to me, is tremendously frustrating. So I'm at an impasse. Why does Google make phones? Maybe it's just to break my heart. You tell me.</p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/unboxing-oneplus-2-android-smartphone-2015-8">Here's your first look at the sequel to the hottest Android phone</a></h3>        <div>            <div>    <script src="http://player.ooyala.com/v3/MDlhYjRhYmQyMjA2NWM2Yzg4YTJkYzcz"></script>    <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="RnaWgwdzqOA9h0NSzi5eB3QpeKwBJq5o" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div>    <script>    if (typeof RunFunctions === 'undefined') { var RunFunctions = []; }     RunFunctions.push(function()    {         var ooyalapopvideo = OO.Player.create('ooyalaplayer_popvideo', 'RnaWgwdzqOA9h0NSzi5eB3QpeKwBJq5o',{ autoplay: 'false' });     });    </script>    <noscript><div>Please enable Javascript to watch this video</div></noscript></div>        </div>        <script>(function() { function createPlayer() { OO.ready(function() { RunFunctions.forEach(function(ooyalaFunction) { ooyalaFunction(); }); RunFunctions = [];}); } createPlayer(); }()); </script>    </div>

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