Author: Mobile Syrup

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Mobile Syrup

Bell is Canada’s best 5G network according to analyst company GWS

Bell’s 5G network has been ranked as the best in Canada by Global Wireless Solutions (GWS), a company that tests wireless networks.

GWS says it applies ‘OneScore’ rankings using a combination of real-world wireless network performance measurements and feedback from customers. Additionally, GWS says that key metrics to consider when evaluating 5G networks include speed, reliability, video performance and latency.

Moreover, the company’s evaluation utilized over 425,000 tests conducted across Canada between May and October 2021, which included “all major metropolitan cities as well as less populated towns and cities.” In total, the GWS tests covered 65 percent of Canada’s population.

The company awarded Bell the “Best 5G Network OneSore 2021” and “Fastest 5G Network OneScore 2021.”

GWS says it used ‘Rohde & Schwarz SmartBenchmarker’ equipment, Samsung Galaxy mobile devices and its own ‘MobiStat’ data evaluation and reporting platform.

Bell also shared a press release patting itself on the back for its performance and reiterating plans to bring 5G to roughly 70 percent of the population by the end of the year.

It’s also worth noting that in October, PCMag also awarded Bell as the fastest mobile network. However, OpenSignal released 5G network rankings in August and, while it also awarded Bell with the fastest network, OpenSignal ranked Rogers higher overall thanks to wider 5G availability.

Source: GWS Via: Bell

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Mobile Syrup

It costs up to $200 more to buy a Pixel 6/6 Pro from carriers than from Google

Google’s Pixel 6 and 6 Pro are fairly popular, but it remains rather difficult to get your hands on these new smartphones. Estimated delivery times range from late November to early January depending on the model and colour you pick, if the version you want is even in stock at Google’s online store.

While it may be tempting to buy the phone from a Canadian carrier instead, it’s worth keeping in mind almost every carrier charges more for an outright Google Pixel 6 or 6 Pro than it costs to get it from Google.

Now, it’s important to remember that the above pricing is for buying the Pixel 6/6 Pro outright from a carrier. In most cases, customers who choose to get one of these phones on a plan from a carrier will end up paying about the same for the phone after two years (with some exceptions I’ll get into below).

For example, Rogers charges $936 for the Pixel 6 outright, but if you sign up for a Rogers plan and finance the Pixel 6 through the carrier’s device financing program, you’ll pay $33.29/mo (over 24 months, that works out to $798.96).

Interestingly, Rogers also advertises the $33.29/mo financing cost as a “discount” from the regular $39/mo financing cost for the Pixel ($39/mo over 24 months is $936). Bell similarly claims on its website that the financing cost is cheaper, but is a little less secretive because it clearly states that it’s cheaper than “our device full price.” I didn’t see similar claims on Telus’ website. However, the Vancouver-based telecom also had a slightly higher financing cost for the Pixel 6 that worked out to $828 over two years.

Watch out for bring-it-back “deals”

Another thing worth considering is that Rogers, Bell and Telus all offer some variation of a ‘bring-it-back’ program where customers can choose to pay a reduced financing fee if they give back the phone at the end of their two-year term, or pay the difference. Using Rogers as the example again, the monthly cost becomes $28.29/mo or $678.96 total over two years. Although Rogers doesn’t list the bring-it-back price on its website, based on the difference in cost between the two options it seems like customers would need to pay $120 at the end of their contract to keep the phone if they wish.

Although the numbers will be slightly different with each carrier, the general idea is the same — you’ll pay roughly the same for the Pixel 6 or 6 Pro on contract as you would buying it directly from Google. If you try to buy the phone outright from most carriers, you’ll end up paying significantly more. While this rule generally holds true, it’s almost always worth running the numbers before buying any phone and comparing the total cost to an outright purchase direct from the manufacturer.

For example, we did a similar look at iPhone 13 pricing, which interestingly was around $30 to $45 more at a carrier compared to direct from Apple (depending on model and some other factors).

Finally, some carriers actually do offer slightly better pricing than Google if you sign up for a two-year term. Namely, Freedom Mobile, Shaw Mobile and Vidéotron. We have a full breakdown for subsidized pricing available here, but in short if you choose to get a Pixel 6 or 6 Pro from any of those carriers on a two-year plan you’ll end up paying less for the phone than buying it directly from Google (depending on the plan you pick, which is an important factor in the overall cost).

As always, make sure to factor in the costs of the phone you want to get, the mobile plan you want and any other costs when looking at buying a new device. Sometimes it’s worth paying a little extra for a phone if you can score a great plan (or forking out for an outright device to keep one).

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Mobile Syrup

Nintendo will manufacture 20 percent fewer Switch consoles due to chip shortage

It seems that nearly every tech hardware company is suffering from the ongoing chip shortage on some level.

The latest victim is Nintendo and its Switch consoles, according to Nikkei Asia. The Japanese gaming giant behind the Switch, Switch Lite and the recently released Switch OLED model will produce 20 percent fewer consoles than it originally planned due to a shortage of semiconductors and other components.

In total, Nintendo will manufacture 24 million Switch units, according to Nikkei.

“The supply and demand of semiconductor parts is tight, and is affecting Switch production. We are assessing the impact,” said a Nintendo spokesperson in a statement to the publication. It’s worth noting that during the holiday shopping season last year, the Switch was also challenging to find.

Last month, Nintendo released a new version of the Switch that features a subtly redesigned build and an OLED display. Though many people expected the company to finally reveal a true 4K-capable successor to the Switch, that has yet to happen.

While the OLED Switch is a decent upgrade to the original console, it still features the same ageing chip and overall design as the nearly four-year-old Switch.

In other Nintendo-related news, the company recently added a new ‘Expansion Pack’ tier to its Switch Online subscription service that includes N64 and Sega Genesis titles. The package has been heavily criticized for featuring poor emulation involving graphical glitches, delayed button presses and more.

Source: Nikkei Asia 

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Mobile Syrup

Netflix Games to launch on November 3, starting with Android

Netflix’s long-awaited push into video games is officially kicking off on November 3rd.

The company has confirmed that its first five games will launch worldwide in the Netflix Android app on that date. An iOS rollout is “on the way,” the company said.

Notably, these games will be offered at no additional cost to Netflix subscribers. Further, they won’t feature any ads or in-app purchases.

Here are the initial five games:

  • Card Blast
  • Shooting Hoops
  • Stranger Things: 1984
  • Stranger Things 3
  • Teeter Up

To access these games, either select the Netflix Games banner on the Netflix app homepage or navigate to the ‘games’ tab. From there, select the game you want to play, which will direct you to your device’s app store to download the game. You’ll then be able to play the game through the app.

Netflix says all adult profiles under a given account can access games, although kids profiles are not allowed. The company also notes that some games require an internet connection, while others can be played offline, although it didn’t specify which.

In a blog post, Netflix noted that this is only the first step in its broader plans for gaming.

“Just like our series, films and specials, we want to design games for any level of play and every kind of player, whether you’re a beginner or a lifelong gamer,” the company wrote. “And we’re just getting started. We’re excited to continue improving our mobile gaming experience and adding to our entertainment offering in the months ahead.”

Back in July, the company said these efforts will be “primarily focused on games for mobile devices,” although that certainly leaves the door open for at least some AAA console/PC titles.

Beyond that, Netflix hasn’t indicated what types of titles it will make, but the company’s intention, at least in part, appears to be to use games to promote its video content. The two Stranger Things games so far are evidence of that.

Netflix has also seen a benefit from CD Projekt’s The Witcher games. The action-RPG series helped make the Polish fantasy property more popular, which helped Netflix’s Witcher show find its own massive audience. This, in turn, gave The Witcher 3 a significant spike in players, even though the game had been around for four years at the time. Netflix and CD Projekt later partnered on a ‘WitcherCon’ to promote both their respective Witcher projects.

One Netflix property that could get the video game treatment is Squid Game. The breakout success of the South Korean survival drama series has led Netflix to look into various ways to expand that universe, including gaming.

Source: Netflix

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Mobile Syrup

The best SAD lights for Canadian winter

You can feel it in your bones. Winter is coming.

The days are getting shorter, which means there will be less sunlight. And less sunlight means that our energy levels tend to be lower and its harder to keep a positive mood.

A growing trend to help combat the winter blues is SAD lights. These special lights simulate sunlight and have been proven to help improve your mood. People living in Canada and the northern United States are affected more than most, particularly if they live and work somewhere with few windows to get any direct sunlight during the shortened days.

A good SAD light will have about 10,000 lux to provide similar results to morning sunshine, but different options exist depending on how much you want to spend. Somewhere just above $100 should be able to get something to handle all of your needs, but there are budget and premium options available as well.

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus

Carex Sad Light

Though Carex has a model of SAD light that’s a step down from the Day-Light Classic Plus you see here, the extra few dollars will get you a bigger light and more stable stand. Aesthetically it looks more like a studio light and it’s a bit more modern too. It’s white light comes with two settings. The “Task” setting can be used throughout the day, while the “Therapy” setting is ideal for dedicated time for mental wellbeing. The light is UV-filtered and 10,000 lux, meeting the clinical requirements to help with winter blues, circadian rhythm, jet lag, and more.

Buy at Amazon Canada for $170.07

Northern Light Technologies Flamingo

Northern Light Sad Light

If you’re willing to spend some extra cash, Northern Light’s Flamingo is an excellent option. The Canadian-made product can produce a 10,000 lux light up to a foot away, and instead of taking up desk space, it has a floor stand that can go up to 53-inches. This makes it a more convenient option for those that may not have a desk to place the light on, and the extra angle adjustments are a welcome feature. If you’re looking for a more versatile SAD light, this could be your answer.

Buy at Amazon Canada for $269.99

Circadian Optics Lumos Light Therapy Lamp

Circadian Optics Sad Light

The Lumos by Circadian Optics is a great option for those looking for a bit more flexibility. Though the light itself is smaller, the modern design of the Lumos offers more versatility when it comes to the settings and adjustment of the light. As with the other SAD lights on the list, it is rated for 10,000 lux, and it’s UV filtered. Those with less available real estate and the need for a more targeted light should consider looking here.

Buy at Amazon Canada for $102.92

Verilux HappyLight VT10 Compact

Verilux Sad Light

Those on a budget — or wanting to dabble in the SAD light space before fully committing — should look no further than the HappyLight VT10 by Verilux. It’s a portable, lightweight model that you can use on your desk or take with you as you travel, but you’ll still get the benefits of the 10,000 lux light. Because it’s smaller, it’s recommended to have longer sessions to get similar benefits to the larger lights, but if you’re using it on your desk during work or school then that shouldn’t be a problem. It may not be flashy, but the VT10 is an inexpensive way to test the technology.

Buy at Amazon Canada for $39.99

Philips HF3670/60 SmartSleep

Philips SmartSleep Light

I’m taking a bit of liberty with this one, but it’s good to know your full spectrum of options as you research ways to help with those winter blues. If you like products that have connected apps, and you don’t mind dropping some extra cash, Philips’ SmartSleep is a great way to help you sleep better and feel more relaxed throughout the day. Yes, it has some extra bells and whistles such as a clock, FM radio and wind down exercises before bed, but the main selling point for the Philips Smartsleep is its ability to simulate sunsets and sunrises. This helps with your circadian rhythm during the winter’s short days, giving structure to your sleep. It’s not technically a SAD light, but for this is a Smart Home light that’s well worth your attention.

Buy at Amazon Canada for $425.99

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships and publishes sponsored posts. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though MobileSyrup may earn a commission on purchases made via these links.

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Mobile Syrup

Samsung teams up with Dr Denim to make Z Flip jeans

Now, this is weird.

Samsung Australia and Dr. Denim have collaborated to release the ‘Z Flip Pocket Denim’ limited edition jeans designed to play off the Galaxy Z Flip 3’s retro form factor.

Interestingly, the jeans feature pockets designed exclusively to fit the Z Flip 3 into their pockets.

Samsung partnered with Dr Denim to remove what it describes as big bulky “unfashionable” pockets, and believes the small, square pockets are the next big trend in jeans.

“Smartphones are often not pocket friendly, so we’ve leveraged Dr Denim’s style credentials to design jeans that shake up the pocket norm and perfectly fit our compact Galaxy Z Flip3. Our Galaxy Z Flip3 users expect the very best in design and pocketability, and what better to accompany our premium phones than the perfect pair of bespoke jeans,” said Hayley Walton, head of brand marketing at Samsung Mobile, in a statement.

The companies plan only to release 450 pairs of Z Flip Pocket Denim jeans sold exclusively in Australia for the astounding price of $1,499 AUD (roughly $1,392 CAD).

For more on the Galaxy Z Flip 3, check out our review of the smartphone.

Source: Samsung

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Mobile Syrup

Apple’s 2021 holiday shopping season return policy is now in effect

Just like the tech giant does every year, Apple has revealed its holiday return policy for the majority of the devices it sells, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, AirPods and more.

In Canada, products purchased between November 1st, 2021 and December 28th, 2021, can be returned until January 8th, 2022. This change in return policy is also valid in the United States, the U.K., Australia, New Zealand, Germany, the Netherlands and more.

It’s expected that due to the ongoing worldwide ship shortage, most of Apple’s devices, including the iPhone 13 and MacBook Pro (2021), will be difficult to hunt down this holiday season.

More information can be found on Apple’s return and refunds page.

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Mobile Syrup

Lawyers question legitimacy of Edward Rogers’ boardroom takeover in B.C. court

In the latest chapter of the ongoing Rogers drama, Edward Rogers’ lawyers went up against lawyers from the Rogers company in a Vancouver courtroom on November 1st. The focus so far has been whether B.C. law allows Edward Rogers to change the board of Rogers Communications without a shareholder meeting.

As The Globe and Mail reports, the company is incorporated in B.C. despite having its headquarters in Toronto. One of Edward Rogers’ lawyers, Ken McEwan, argued that B.C.’s Business Corporations Act allows Edward, as the company’s controlling shareholder, to reconstitute the board through a consent resolution. Since Edward is the chair of the Rogers Control Trust, he has the authority to vote 97.5 percent of the company’s voting class A shares.

However, lawyers for the Rogers company argued that the kind of change proposed by Edward Rogers requires him to hold a shareholder meeting, despite that class B shares held by minority shareholders don’t have voting power. Instead, a shareholder meeting would give minority shareholders an opportunity to vote by buying or selling stock.

Moreover, company lawyers cited Rogers’ governance practices, articles of incorporation and a memorandum of late founder Ted Rogers’ wishes to support arguments against Edward. One lawyer urged the judge to reject Edward’s position that he can do “whatever he wants on whatever terms he wishes.”

B.C. Supreme Court Justice Shelley Fitzpatrick said that she intends to issue a decision on Friday afternoon.

The courtroom debate is the latest in a long-running feud between Edward Rogers and his mother and sisters over the Rogers company board and CEO Joe Natale. It began with chief financial officer Tony Staffieri leaving the company, which was later reported to be a result of Edward Rogers’ failed attempt to oust Natale and replace him with Staffieri (a plan allegedly exposed by Staffieri butt-dialing Natale while scheming with Edward).

Following the butt-dial report, Edward Rogers put his plan to replace half the company board into action, which ultimately led to two groups claiming to be the Rogers board and Edward taking the whole squabble to court.

Those interested can read a full timeline of the reported family feud here.

Source: The Globe and Mail

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Mobile Syrup

4K and 8K LG TV users can get three months of Apple TV+ for free

LG announced today that its Smart TV users in over eighty countries, including Canada, would be able to claim a free three-month subscription to Apple TV+.

Starting November 15th, owners of LG’s 2016 to 2021 4K and 8K TVs will be able to redeem the offer directly from the LG Content Store. It’s worth noting that this deal is exclusively available to new Apple TV+ subscribers. If you’ve already tried out the service, you won’t be eligible for the promotion, and you can claim only one free trial per qualified LG Smart TV and Apple ID.

Simply follow the on-screen instructions in the LG Content Store or click the Apple TV+ banner on the LG TV home menu to redeem the promotion.

Apple TV+ comes with a seven-day free trial, after which it costs $5.99CAD a month. Apple also offers a three-month free trial of the service when you buy a new iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Apple TV, or Mac.

If you’re interested in LG’s promotion, you must redeem the free-trail subscription by February 20th, 2022. Learn more here.

Image credit: LG

Source: LG

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Mobile Syrup

Canadian Fire TV users can now access TikTok directly on their TV

Amazon announced today that a TikTok app is now available for its Amazon Fire TV users in the United States and Canada.

Simply visit the Fire TV app store, download TikTok and proceed to log in with your credentials. If you don’t already have an account, then make one to enjoy a personalized ‘For You’ page along with some of the most viral content on the ‘Discover’ tab.

You have to manually swipe on the mobile app to see the next TikTok video, but the Fire TV app includes autoplay, so you won’t have to scroll or press a button on your remote to play the next video.

TikTok is now accessible on all Fire TV devices in the United States and Canada and will soon be available on Echo Show devices.

In other recent TikTok news, Canadian TikTok users can now use auto-captioning for their content.

Source: Amazon Fire TV