Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold line is the undisputed champion of large flexible phones. But – outside of China – it naturally carries that title. With the Pixel Fold, Google has created a foldable challenger that directly addresses some of Samsung’s (and foldable) weaknesses. Google says more than 50 first-party apps are already optimized for use on devices like the Pixel Fold. We’ve seen some of the improvements before, like a tabletop mode on YouTube. But, being made by the same company that makes Android, there are more features here. It also includes third-party apps like WhatsApp, where you can share images from Google Photos by dragging and dropping.
Engadget
According to Engadget’s Sam Rutherford, the Pixel Fold’s clever hinge and slim chassis make it easy to use and carry, while its wider body makes the phone’s external screen more usable. The Pixel Fold has a lot going for it against Samsung’s Z Fold 4, with better cameras and UI tweaks that make multitasking a little easier. The main challenge: the $1,799 price tag. Check out the full review here.
– Matt Smith
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Users get basic ads, standard or premium tiers.
Netflix has announced that its Basic plan will no longer be an option for Canadian subscribers. Anyone already on a Basic plan doesn’t have to worry about getting out of it, but if they choose to switch to another option or close their account, they can’t go back to that tier. In Canada, the basic tier is $9.99 (CAD) per month, while the basic tier with ads, launched last year, is $5.99. Now with the decision to remove its basic option, the streamer is pushing its customers towards an ad-laden viewing experience. It’s making money for the company: In the first quarter of 2023, Netflix’s basic ad tiers brought in more money per user than its standard plan.
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Your local bodega can bring the inventory to your door.
Amazon is introducing a new hub delivery system that uses small businesses in 23 states (including California, New York and Washington) to complete customer shipments. Those businesses need secure storage areas and deliver an average of 30 packages daily during major holidays. Amazon launched the “I Have Space” system in India in 2015, and expanded it to both Japan and Spain. A US pilot program began in late 2020, though the focus is on improving delivery to rural customers. The new system covers more than 20 major cities, including Boston, New York City and Los Angeles.
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The plan costs $8 per month or $60 per year.
Engadget
Meta is building a subscription service for VR titles, such as its own Xbox Game Pass. Meta Quest+ gives users access to “the best titles on the platform” for $8 per month or $60 per year. Subscriptions are available on Quest 2 and Quest Pro starting today. It’s also coming to the Quest 3 when the headset arrives this fall. First person shooter to the first two wins Pistol whip And Pixel Ripped 1995. As with PlayStation Plus Essential, you’ll retain access to games as long as you’re a member.
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An early version is planned for the Lunar Gateway space station.
has 2001: A Space Odyssey Didn’t teach us anything? Yes. NASA is developing an AI chat system that will allow astronauts to perform maneuvers, experiments and more using a natural language ChatGPT-like interface.
NASA aims to deploy the system on its Lunar Gateway, a space station that orbits the Moon and supports NASA’s Artemis mission. It will use a natural language interface that allows astronauts to get advice on conducting experiments or maneuvers without having to delve into complicated manuals.
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