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Samsung Galaxy S23 series to sport same displays as predecessors

Samsung’s Galaxy S23 series is expected to launch in early February, so it’s not surprising that the rumour mill keeps churning.

A new leak indicates that the S23 and S23+ will lack QHD+ displays and offer technology similar to their predecessor, the S22 series. This isn’t much of a shock, and the S21 series was similar, which, at the time, was pretty depressing considering the S20 did offer that better display resolution. So, to be specific, we’re looking at FHD display quality for the S23 and S23+.

Additionally, another rumour indicates that all three S23 smartphones will sport that variable refresh rate. The S23 Ultra will have a 120Hz variable refresh rate that dips as low as 1Hz. The S23 and S23+, on the other hand, will sport a 120Hz variable refresh rate that dips as low as 48Hz.

According to other leaks, the S23 Ultra will sport aQHD+ 3088 x 1440-pixel resolution, 8GB/12GB of RAM, 256GB/512GB/1TB of storage, four rear cameras with 200-megapixel primary, 12-megapixel ultrawide, 10-megapixel 3x telephoto and a 10-megapixel telephoto with 10x optical zoom.

Recently, the S23+ and S23 Ultra were both spotted in alleged promotion material.

Source: Android Headlines

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Mobile Syrup

Samsung Galaxy S21 series poised to recieve December update today

Some Samsung devices are getting the December security patch, according to the Rogers and Telus update schedules. Strangely, the company’s current flagships are getting the update yet — instead, it’s the Galaxy S21 series.

According to the update schedules, the S21, S21+ and S21 Ultra will receive the December security update today. Samsung Galaxy S22 series devices will need to wait until December 20th to receive the update.

The security patch includes a number of fixes ranging from high to critical severity.

In the past, Samsung has been notoriously bad at releasing monthly updates on time. However, the company is slowly getting better with each new generation of devices. I don’t know if releasing the patch to 2021 model and not the 2022 model should be considered progress, however.

The Koodo update schedule reflects something similar.

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Mobile Syrup

Samsung ’21 and ’22 flagship devices get Android 13 update in Canada

Rogers’ update schedule has added multiple Samsung devices that will be receiving the update to Android 13 on November 22nd or November 29th. The Telus update schedule shows that some of these devices already got their update on the 19th, or will get it on the 23rd instead.

Here are the devices Samsung devices that are getting their Android 13 update (the Android 13 update also comes alongside One UI 5.0):

  • Samsung Galaxy S22 – November 19th-22nd
  • Samsung Galaxy S22+ – November 19th-22nd
  • Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra – November 19th-22nd
  • Samsung Galaxy S21 – November 22nd -23rd
  • Samsung Galaxy S21+ – November 22nd -23rd
  • Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra – November 22nd -23rd
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 20 – November 22nd -23rd
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra  – November 22nd -23rd
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 – November 29th
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 – November 29th
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 – November 29th
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 – November 29th

These are all the Samsung devices that will get the Android 13 update this month. This isn’t an exact science, and it doesn’t mean you’ll get the update immediately. However, it does indicate that the rolling-out process has begun and that it’s likely your device will recieve the update within the next month.

Source: Rogers, Telus

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Mobile Syrup

BLACK FRIDAY IS ON at The Mobile Shop™ and you could earn big PC Optimum Points!

Black Friday is just around the corner, but the offers are starting now. The Mobile Shop™ just launched its BIGGEST points offer of the year on a wide range of the hottest mobile phones. 

From now until Nov. 28, you can earn up to 300,000 PC Optimum™ points on select phones and plans* – on top of the hot offers below! – that’s like $300 in PC Optimum Points™ that you can use towards your next grocery bill. 

Whether you are looking to upgrade your phone, or even switch plans, The Mobile Shop™ is here to help. They’ve got a ton of zero-dollar devices available across all the nation’s leading providers. Their expert staff, called Mobilists™, can help you cross-compare dozens of phones and plans, ensuring you walk out with a phone you love, the plan you need, and as many PC Optimum™ points in your cart as possible.

So if you’re looking for an amazing Black Friday offer on mobile, head to one of the 200 The Mobile Shop™ locations across Canada before November 28! 

HOT OFFERS:

Check out the Black Friday offers here, find the closest store to you here and follow The Mobile Shop on Instagram and Facebook for more information. 

*Only available on select phones & plans. Subject to credit approval. Conditions apply.

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Mobile Syrup

Samsung’s Camera Assistant gives you more control of S22 camera

Samsung’s One UI Good Lock app offers a variety of modules that can help users customize their handsets, one of which is the new Camera Assistant.

The Camera Assistant showcases some of the image processing-related options in the Galaxy S22. For instance, you can turn off Samsung’s HDR processing with the app. This option was previously available within the camera app, but was removed.

Additionally, the Camera Assistant offers a new Soften pictures feature that can soften sharp edges. You can also disable Auto Lens to prevent the phone from switching to different lenses depending on light conditions or zooming. With that, users would need to toggle if they want to use the 10x zoom lens, 5x or the standard lens. There’s also a new faster shutter option, which can help when you’re trying to take action shots.

The Camera Assistant is currently in beta, with the feature officially launching in 2023, according to the Samsung Community thread. You can download the module from the Galaxy Store, but it’s locked to certain regions.

This feature seems to give you a lot more control of the camera — hopefully, it’s pre-downloaded and easy to use on the Galaxy S23 series and comes to Canada.

Source: Android Police 

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Mobile Syrup

Samsung Bora Purple S22 to launch on August 10

Samsung has announced its new colour variant for the S22, ‘Bora Purple.

Funny enough, the word “Bora” means “purple” in Korean, which means the colour variant is actually called ‘Purple Purple.’

The phone will launch in Canada on August 10th and start at $1,099.99 CAD.

What’s weird with this colour variant is that the phone already comes in violet and gold pink. Violet sort of verged towards a pink colour variant with a gold pink camera bump, whereas Bora is definitely a lot more “purple” than the violet option.

Previous rumours indicate that Bora Purple is Samsung’s hit colour this time around, as the Z Flip 4 and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro will also launch in this colour on August 10th.

However, only time will tell.

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Mobile Syrup

New security vulnerability affects Pixel 6, Galaxy S22 series

Looks like Pixel 6 and Galaxy S22 owners may have another security vulnerability to contend with.

Security researcher and Northwestern University PhD student Zhenpeng Lin posted a video on Twitter showcasing the vulnerability. Lin claims the vulnerability can enable arbitrary read and write, privilege escalation, and disable SELinux security protections. In other words, it’s a doozy.

Android Police notes that none of the technical details about the vulnerability have been published. However, the vulnerability impacts Android devices running with Linux kernel version based on version 5.10 — namely, the Pixel 6 series, Galaxy S22 line, and some others. You can check your kernel version by heading to Settings > About phone > Android version > Kernel version.

Moreover, Android Police reports that the vulnerability appears to use some sort of memory access exploit, indicating it could be similar to the Dirty Pipe security flaw that plagued new Pixel and Galaxy smartphones earlier this year.

There’s also some debate over whether Lin’s Twitter post violates Google’s disclosure rules for security bugs. Lin told Android Police that the post was a “proof of concept” and he believes it doesn’t violate the rules. Additionally, Lin said he disclosed the flaw to Google on July 5th.

However, as Android Police notes, Google’s rules request “reasonable advance notice” and that reports going against this “usually don’t qualify.” In other words, it sounds like a public disclosure before alerting Google could impact reward payouts. Typically with security exploits, researchers only issue public disclosures as a final attempt to get companies to fix the flaw. Most tech companies offer disclosure programs and bug bounties and encourage researchers to disclose exploits to them first, then go public once a fix is available. Google’s internal research division, Project Zero, has a 90-day response policy for vulnerabilities that aren’t actively being exploited, and a seven-day policy for actively-exploited flaws.

Finally, Android Police notes that given the timeline and how Google’s security patches work, the issue might not be addressed until September. However, other manufacturers might be able to pull the fix into their own patches earlier, such as what Samsung did with Dirty Pipe.

Source: Zhenpeng Lin (Twitter) Via: Android Police

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Mobile Syrup

Fido Samsung Galaxy S22 devices to get June update today

Samsung’s Galaxy S22 series is poised to get its June security update starting today, depending on your carrier.

Fido’s update schedule lists the update as arriving on June 14th, while according to Telus and Koodo’s update schedule, the Galaxy S22 series won’t get its update until June 21st. Therefore, some users will have to wait a full week before getting the update.

9to5Google, who received the update today, says the update includes device stability, bug fixes, new/and enhanced features, and performance improvements. Samsung’s security updates page says that the update fixes critical to moderate vulnerabilities.

Alongside the S22 series, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 will also get their June security on June 21st, according to the Telus, Koodo and Fido update schedules.

Source:9to5Google, Telus, Koodo, Fido

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Mobile Syrup

The best smartphone bike mounts to buy this Spring

Spring is nearly here and for many, it’s a time to break out the bike for some new excursions.

Whether it’s trekking across the city or taking a ride through a trail, having easy access to your phone for notifications or GPS is important. That’s why many prefer to travel with a bike mount for their smartphone.

Let’s take a look at the best smartphone bike mounts you can order online.

Best premium mount


Lamicall Bicycle Cell Phone Mount Clamp

$29.99

Pros:


  • Sturdy mount

  • Supports iPhone 13 and Galaxy S22

  • Simple attachment
Cons:


  • Premium price


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 12:36 pm GMT

Lamicall offers a robust and sturdy mount that can fit an assortment of handlebars. The smartphone mount holds the device by each of its four corners. It comes with silicon pads to ensure the device does not get scratched or dinged up while travelling.

The Lamicall mount supports devices that are 4.7-inch to 6.8-inches, meaning the entire iPhone 13 series and newly released Galaxy S22 series are supported. Pixel phones, and older iPhone and Galaxy models are also mountable.

In addition, the mount can be fixed in a vertical or horizontal orientation.

Adding to the benefits, Lamicall’s mount is easy to fix and can be mounted on shopping carts, strollers, and more outside of your traditional bicycle.

Best anti-vibration mount


TruActive Premium Bike Phone Mount Holder

$21.99

Pros:


  • Minimalist design

  • Anti-vibration padding

  • 360 degree swivel design
Cons:


  • Bike mount not as secure


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 12:46 pm GMT

The TruActive smartphone bike mount offers a unique design. Whereas some mounts can be bulkier, this smartphone mount is much more minimalist. It’s made to fit a smartphone using nonslip, anti-vibration padding. This ensures the phone does not rattle and shake while on a road or trail.

The phone is held using rubber secure straps that the company claims have been tested by “engineers with years of road safety experience.” It comes in six colour options to fit your style and design aesthetic.

TruActive’s mount is universal, supporting iPhone, Galaxy, and Pixel devices ranging from 4.0-inches to 6.7-inches with a maximum thickness of 0.71-inches.

Finally, with the ball joint mount, the phone can swivel 360-degrees and be fixed to any viewing angle.

Best easy access mount


Teumi Anti-Shake Bicycle Phone Holder

$17.99

Pros:


  • Easy screen access

  • Anti-vibration pads

  • Solid lock mount
Cons:


  • Not adjustable


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 01:01 pm GMT

Teumi lands on our list with a rather simplistic, yet effective design. This smartphone bike mount supports a smartphone by using four 4 wear-resisting silicone claws and a non-slip PU pad. This is made to ensure the phone will not slip or get scratched on your next cycling outing.

The design of the mount leaves critical components and buttons open for easy access. For instance, the notch on the iPhone is left open so Face ID remains functional. Older devices with Touch ID won’t be compromised either. Volume buttons and other accessible features remain thanks to the mount’s design. Plus, you can adjust the angle and orientation to your preference.

Once again, this mount is universal so whether you just purchased an iPhone 13 Pro or are taking your Galaxy S8 on a scenic venture, you’re covered.

Best sturdy mount


Beemoon Bike Phone Mount

$18.99

Pros:


  • Built like a tank

  • Rubberized design

  • Easy installation
Cons:


  • Bulky


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 01:21 pm GMT

If you’re looking for a mount that appears more sturdy, Beemoon has you covered. This mount holds a smartphone in place by using rubberized corners and can fix any phone ranging from 4.7-inch to 6.8-inches. It is on the thicker side, which may attract someone using a dirtbike or riders on trails.

The Beemoon mount is designed with easy installation in mind. It requires no tools so you don’t have to fuss around with fixing it on your bike. Alternatively, the mount can be secured to a stroller, motorcycle, or other handlebars. Beemoon also includes additional rubber parts to adjust to the width of the handlebars.

As with others on the list, the mount features flexible rotation and orientation. It gives you the freedom of securing your device in landscape or portrait mode. This may be great for anyone shooting videos on their bike ride.

Best budget mount


La Lefn Bike Phone Mount

$9.99

Pros:


  • Budget friendly

  • Anti-vibration mount

  • Easy installation
Cons:


  • Less secure design


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 01:36 pm GMT

When looking at simple, yet effective mounts, La Lefn’s is one to take notice of. This mount features high elastic rubber belts to secure the smartphone safely. It is shock absorbent so your device will resist vibrations and any potential impact.

The almost spiderweb design of the mount supports standard size phones as well as larger ones ie: iPhone 13 Pro Max and Galaxy S22 Ultra.

The inside of the handlebar mount has non-slip damping to alleviate worries about the mount falling off or shifting. Additionally, installation requires no tools as the band is designed much like a watch or belt.

The La Lefn mount is a cost-efficient option when compared to others.

Best detachable phone mount


Teumi Detachable Bike Phone Mount

$15.29

Pros:


  • Easily detachable phone

  • 360 degree swivel design

  • Good value
Cons:


  • Less secure design


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 12:21 pm GMT

Teumi is once again on the list. This time, however, with a detachable smartphone mount. While all other mounts on the list require you to take the device off the mount in order to answer a call or text, this mount doesn’t.

The universal banded design slots directly into the smartphone bike mount. When taking a call, the silicon band and holder rotates 90-degrees and can be removed. Due to the slim-fit nature of the band, it isn’t obtrusive to use while attached to the phone.

As you can now imagine, this mount does not interfere with the display and front-facing camera of the phone. It can also be adjusted while mounted. Users can freely rotate the device a full 360-degrees to the appropriate position.

Most unique design


iMestou Bike Phone Mount

$24.99

Pros:


  • Unique design

  • Vibration resistant

  • Access to phone buttons
Cons:


  • Complicated installation


  • Not the best value


Buy at Amazon

03/15/2022 12:26 pm GMT

Finally, iMestou comes in with their mount. Here, we see a slightly different approach to design. This smartphone bike mount holds the phone primarily by the sides and bottom. This leaves everything from the power button, volume, and front-facing camera completely uncompromised.

The iMestou mount comfortably fits devices from 3.5-inch to 6.8-inches. The mount is comprised of plastic clamping arms and supporting pads for grip. Plus, you’ll find full rotation is possible with adjustable viewing angles.

This mount does require a bit of installation. On the rear, a screw must be fastened. Though, that may be appealing for those who wish to have peace of mind on the safety of their device.

And now you’re ready

There you have it. This spring, ensure your phone is within arm’s reach and safely secured while on a bike trip. No matter if you’re headed to the grocery store or racing over a hill, the benefits of securing your phone nearby should speak for themselves.

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though we may earn a commission on purchases made via these links that helps fund the journalism provided free on our website.

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YouTuber drives over Galaxy S22 Ultra and it only suffers a few scratches

YouTube channel ‘PBKreviews’ got its hands on Samsung’s Galaxy S22 and S22 Ultra early and performed a durability test on the two devices.

The durability video starts with submerging the S22 Ultra under shallow water for one minute and then moves on to a scratch test, which reveals the devices start to show scuffs at level 6 with deep grooves at level 8. Interestingly, the video reveals that the smartphone’s fingerprint sensor still works when scratched.

What’s the most fun to watch is the test where the device is face down on the concrete and then driven over by a car. The phone received a couple of scratches from the concrete, but that’s pretty much it.

PBKreviews also performed similar tests on the S22, but they didn’t drive over it. The test revealed that the S22 was slightly less scratch-resistant than the S22 Ultra.

The two phones use the same Gorilla Glass Victus+ display panel, so it’s unclear why.

MobileSyrup will have more on Samsung’s S22 series in the coming weeks.

Source: PBKreviews, (2)