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If you’re scrolling on Instagram, TikTok, or the more specific sub genre #CatTok you may have come across some interesting feline behavior as of late: Numerous videos of excited cat owners presenting their pets with concrete slabs, even taking trips to the hardware store to pick up some pavers. When presented with their new gift, ever curious, cats investigate and ultimately seem to enjoy their hard, new toy. But why?
“As is typical with cats, only they know,” Bruce Kornreich, a veterinary cardiologist and director of the Feline Health Center at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, tells Popular Science.
While we don’t really know for sure, there are some things we can glean from this behavior. Cats generally love exploring objects with different textures. Yet, like in humans, it’s different strokes for different feline folks.
[ Related: Why do cats make biscuits? ]
“Scratching posts are a good example,” says Kornreich. “Some cats like wood with bark on it, while some cats like cardboard.” Sometimes a scratch post’s orientation can determine whether or not a cat uses it. “Cats like them upright, other cats like them horizontal, and some cats want horizontal with carpeting on it.”
As for concrete, the porous nature of the material may offer cats somewhere to deposit their scent. Smell is important for many animals, felines included. Cats can use their urine and pheromones as a way to communicate. According to the ASPCA, an individual cats’ urine marking alerts other cats of his/her presence and also “makes a statement about such things as what piece of property is his, how long ago he was in the area, and, over time, when other cats can expect him to return.” Felines will also use urine to advertise when they’re looking for a mate.
That same porous property in the concrete might also be good for one of the most common cat behaviors—scratching.
“We believe that cats like scratching posts because they can partake in a natural behavior,” says Kornreich. “We believe that in many cases, they’re scratching to mark territory. So they may scratch on these things or rub their pheromones on them to mark them as their own.”
Like scratching posts, concrete slabs give cats a satisfying surface to claw, mark, and explore—another way to engage their natural instincts at home. Image: IzaLysonArts / 500px / Getty Images IzaLysonArts / 500px
Temperature may also be involved. The cat might use the slab as a place to warm up if the block’s been left in the sun, or cool down if it’s in an air conditioned room. Introducing a concrete slab to a cat’s environment could also simply be something exciting for them to explore or a piece of new territory to claim.
“They may be saying, ‘Hey, this is a new thing. It’s kind of porous. I can put my scent on it. I can sit on top of it. I can scratch my nails on it. It also provides me with a nice little scratch on my back.’ So it’s certainly possible that these things are involved in why a cat would be attracted to it,” explains Kornreich.
[ Related: The mystery of cats and their love of imaginary boxes. ]
Kornreich and other veterinarians recommend cat owners stimulate and play into their feline friends’ natural behaviors. Introducing scratching posts, supervised time outside either walking on a leash or on an enclosed outdoor “catio,” and using toys to mimic hunting behaviors all help a cat stay healthy, happy, and entertained. Even just “five minutes a day” of dedicated play time will help make cats’ lives more full and enjoyable, says Kornreich. Switching cat foods periodically under a vet’s supervision can also help keep them stimulated.
Social media can sometimes seem tailor made for documenting strange feline behaviors, from cats talking to hiding inside tables. But if your cat develops any destructive habits or behavioral issues, discussing your concerns with a veterinarian is key.
But if your cat just loves a slab of concrete? “I don’t see any real concerns,” says Kornreich.
This story is part of Popular Science’s Ask Us Anything series, where we answer your most outlandish, mind-burning questions, from the ordinary to the off-the-wall. Have something you’ve always wanted to know? Ask us.
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The PopSci team has tested hundreds of products and spent thousands of hours trying to find the best gear and gadgets you can buy.
While there’s no denying that the latest iPhones are great handsets in their own right, long gone are the days of the Android crowd feeling envious of Apple’s output. Our current picks for the best Android phones have stood out from the competition, wowing our team of tech experts.
The best thing about Android has always been (and continues to be) the amount of choice you have on offer. With great options from the likes of Samsung, Google, OnePlus and more, you can decide which phone to buy based on the features that you value the most – something that can’t really be said when shopping for an iPhone.
For example, if you enjoy streaming or gaming on your smartphone, you can opt for a handset with a fast, modern chipset and a gorgeous OLED display. For those who love taking pictures with their smartphone and want the widest array of sensors possible, you’re also covered.
It’s this freedom of choice that makes Android such a great option for consumers everywhere, but it does mean that if you’re not careful, you can get bogged down in the details. Thankfully, that’s where we come in.
With all of the phones you see on this list, they were used as the main handset by the reviewer in question, and then subjected to our series of tests to ensure that the phone holds up under scrutiny. This procedure involves documenting battery drain, charging speeds, chipset performance and camera detail, just to name a few.
Once all these tests are completed, we can provide our final verdict on a phone, along with a corresponding score. Only those that really stood out from the pack are able to make it into this very list.
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If you are curious to know a bit more about where iPhones stand against the top Android performers, you should have a read of our best phones guide. For the more budget-conscious among you, we also have price-centric buying guides in the form of the best mid-range phones and the best cheap phones.
Best Android phones at a glance
SQUIRREL_ANCHOR_LIST
Learn more about how we test mobile phones
All the phones included in our Best Android phone list have been thoroughly tested and used by one of our expert reviewers. We will never review a phone based purely on specs and benchmark scores. We use them as our everyday device for the review period, which is usually at least five days but often a lot more.
Whenever you read a phone review published on Trusted Reviews, you should be confident that the reviewer has put their personal SIM card into the phone, synced across their most-used apps and logged into all their typical accounts. We do this so you’ll feel confident in our review and trust our verdict.
Our review process includes a mixture of real-world tests, along with more than 15 measured tests and industry-standard benchmarks. We believe this gives the most rounded view of a device.
Pros
Redesigned chassis looks way more modern
Holistic, genuinely helpful approach to AI
Amazing photo and video capabilities
All-day battery life
Cons
Second price hike in two years
Can get hot when gaming
Tensor G4 isn’t much more powerful than the G3
Pros
Redesigned chassis feels good in the hand
Oodles of power under the hood
Excellent camera performance
Gorgeous display with super-slim bezels
Cons
Much of the camera hardware remains unchanged
Battery doesn’t last as long as 2025 rivals
New Galaxy AI features are limited
Pros
Exceptional camera performance across the board
Snapdragon 8 Elite power
Pixel-packed 6.7-inch screen
All-day battery life and rapid charging
Cons
Curved display can lead to mispresses
Only four OS upgrades promised
Pros
Exceptional battery life
Impressive performance
Top-end screen
Versatile camera setup
Cons
Issues with camera focus and halo effects
More bloatware
Limited AI smarts compared to some brands
Pros
Highest-resolution telephoto lens around
Plenty of power under the hood
Top-end display experience
Cons
AI Super Zoom leaves much to be desired
Smaller battery than its predecessor
Quite similar to Honor Magic 6 Pro
Pros
A joy to use and hold
Uncompromising flagship screen
Plenty of power
Solid camera performance
Cons
Battery struggles to last a single day
Relatively slow 25W charging
No dedicated zoom lens
Gets warm rather easily
Pros
Excellent and brighter external display
Solid camera performance
Unique finish options
Smooth performance
Cons
Only 3 years of Android OS updates
Moto AI still needs work
No telephoto lens
Pros
Lightest book-style foldable around
Ultra thin design makes it really nice to use
Larger, wider, wholly more useful screens
Same main camera as Galaxy S25 Ultra
Cons
Relatively small 4400mAh battery
Slow 25W wired charging
Zoom camera could be better for the price
Pros
Incredible performance
Excellent speakers
Slick professional design
Awesome LED lighting effects
Cons
Very expensive
Cameras aren’t the best
Charging could be quicker
Pros
Best battery life of any Pixel
Clean, more understated look
Great camera performance
Premium AI features
Cons
Thick screen bezels look dated
No dedicated zoom lens
Tensor G4 not as powerful as other flagship chips
Slow charging
Redesigned chassis looks way more modern
Holistic, genuinely helpful approach to AI
Amazing photo and video capabilities
All-day battery life
Second price hike in two years
Can get hot when gaming
Tensor G4 isn’t much more powerful than the G3
If you’re shopping for an Android phone and want the best AI experience around, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is our current favourite pick.
As with any Pixel phone, the 9 Pro XL is mostly about two things – the Google software and the camera. The cameras remain fairly similar to what we saw on the Pixel 8 Pro, but refreshed tech, including larger zoom and ultrawide sensors and new AI smarts, improves performance on all three of the rear lenses. There are software tweaks, too, including a bunch of updated modes – including Night Sight Video – you’ll actually want to use.
Photos from the phone are great in practically any scenario. They are richer and more immersive than those from the Galaxy S25 series and often better in darker situations, too, despite the much higher megapixel count on offer from the S25 Ultra in particular. The zoom might not match up to Samsung’s Ultra efforts, but if you keep it to around the 5-10x mark, the results are great.
Powering the phone is Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, though like previous entries, it’s not the quickest around – many phones on this list post better benchmark scores – with the focus being instead on AI prowess.
Many software additions here are made better by this chip, including support for on-device Google Gemini smarts, the ability to search for Screenshots using natural language and even generate new images entirely on-device, and everything works very well. Samsung has started to claw back some of that interest with Galaxy AI on its flagship series, but there’s still more to take advantage of with the Pixel 9 Pro XL than the S25.
The 6.8-inch Super Actua screen is on par with high-end options from Apple and Samsung, although battery life is starting to lag behind the competition. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is also more expensive than the Pixel 8 Pro, with the new regular Pixel 9 Pro offering pro-level smarts in a smaller 6.3-inch package.
SQUIRREL_PLAYLIST_10187772
Redesigned chassis feels good in the hand
Oodles of power under the hood
Excellent camera performance
Gorgeous display with super-slim bezels
Much of the camera hardware remains unchanged
Battery doesn’t last as long as 2025 rivals
New Galaxy AI features are limited
Given that last year’s Galaxy S24 Ultra held this spot until recently, it probably shouldn’t be too much of a surprise to see that its successor, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, has now taken over its post.
While it’s true that the S25 Ultra doesn’t depict a monumental upgrade over last year’s flagship, and that if you do have that phone or even the S23 Ultra then you’re better off staying put for the time being, there’s no getting around how great this display looks on a daily basis.
This time around, the bezels have been shaved down even further to create the illusion at times that one half of the phone is simply all-screen. It certainly means that you now get the most out of its gigantic 6.9-inch AMOLED display when it comes to watching TV shows or indulging in a spot of gaming, the latter of which is a breeze thanks to the included Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset.
The S24 Ultra’s anti-reflective coating makes a comeback here as well, and it does a fantastic job at minimising distraction from nearby light sources. This, in turn, should have a knock-on effect on the device’s battery life as you won’t feel as pressured to up the brightness on your phone when using it outdoors.
SQUIRREL_PLAYLIST_10207165
Exceptional camera performance across the board
Snapdragon 8 Elite power
Pixel-packed 6.7-inch screen
All-day battery life and rapid charging
Curved display can lead to mispresses
Only four OS upgrades promised
There’s no shortage of fantastic camera phones in the Android smartphone market, but the Xiaomi 15 Ultra stands head and shoulders above the competition with some of the best performance across the board.
That’s headed up by a 50MP main camera with a whopping 1-inch sensor that’s larger than anything you’ll find from Samsung, Apple and Google, and allows for phenomenal day-to-day performance. Not only are images crisp and detailed, but the large sensor also allows for stunning performance in low-light scenarios too.
That’s backed up by a 50MP 3x floating telephoto lens that doubles up as a pretty fantastic telemacro lens, complete with a natural bokeh you’d expect from DSLRs, and the 200MP periscope lens captures plenty of detail at the 50x mark and beyond. The 50MP ultrawide is the weakest of the four lenses, but that’s only because the others are exceptional. It’d be considered a fairly capable ultrawide lens if this were any other smartphone.
The Leica tuning is present and accounted for, both in the form of Vibrant and Authentic shooting modes along with a variety of filters and Leica-style bokeh effects when taking portrait photos.
It’s not just a great camera phone either; it sports a curved 6.73-inch WQHD+ AMOLED screen with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, top-end Snapdragon 8 Elite power and a healthy 5410mAh battery with 90W charging.
The only real chink in its armour is its software; while HyperOS 2 is much cleaner than the older EMUI, the inspiration is still clear, and it’s about as far as you can get from stock Android. It also falls short when it comes to long-term support, with Xiaomi committing to four years of OS upgrades and six years of security patches.
SQUIRREL_PLAYLIST_10207332
Exceptional battery life
Impressive performance
Top-end screen
Versatile camera setup
Issues with camera focus and halo effects
More bloatware
Limited AI smarts compared to some brands
This was a very close competition where, at one point, the Oppo Find X8 Pro was also considered, but in the end it was the outstanding OnePlus 13 that swooped in to take the crown. Simply put, if you want the best battery life possible on an Android handset for some seriously heavy use then this is the one you’ll want to get.
The included 6000mAh cell is an absolute beast, and thanks to its use of more efficient silicon carbon material, it doesn’t add much to the phone’s overall weight either. In our testing, we found it incredibly difficult to fully drain the battery during an intensive day of use. As a testament to this, we were able to play roughly half an hour of Mario Kart Tour and only see up to a 4% drop from the overall charge.
This is the type of longevity that more casual users can probably stretch to a two-day stint, and it’s made even better thanks to 100W fast charging if you pick up a compatible adapter which, unfortunately, is sold separately. However it is worth noting that wireless charging of any kind is not available with this phone.
On top of the stellar battery life, you’ve got the wonderful OxygenOS which makes using OnePlus phones feel wonderfully intuitive, and the cameras aren’t too bad either, but they pale in comparison to what Google and Samsung have achieved.
SQUIRREL_PLAYLIST_10207250
Highest-resolution telephoto lens around
Plenty of power under the hood
Top-end display experience
AI Super Zoom leaves much to be desired
Smaller battery than its predecessor
Quite similar to Honor Magic 6 Pro
The Honor Magic 7 Pro is in an interesting space this year. Its predecessor, the Honor Magic 6 Pro, previously held the spot on this list as having the best battery, but this phone has a smaller cell and that spot has been taken by the superior OnePlus 13. However, there is one key area where the Honor Magic 7 Pro crushed the competition and that’s in charging.
If you’re the type of person who’s always rushing from one place to the next, with only a short window of opportunity to top up their smartphone, then you’ll be glad to know that the Magic 7 Pro’s 5270mAh battery can be topped up by either 100W wired-charging or 80W wireless charging.
In the case of that wired charge, you can get a full battery in return from just 33 minutes of connectivity, which is phenomenal. Of course, you’ll need to buy a proper 100W charger to enjoy those faster speeds as unfortunately, you won’t find one included in the box.
Don’t think that the Honor Magic 7 Pro slouches elsewhere though – this phone still benefits from some of the best cameras around, including a super high resolution telephoto lens, and all of the shots you do take look incredible on the device’s 6.8-inch, 1.2K AMOLED display.
A joy to use and hold
Uncompromising flagship screen
Plenty of power
Solid camera performance
Battery struggles to last a single day
Relatively slow 25W charging
No dedicated zoom lens
Gets warm rather easily
If you want an ultra-slim, lightweight flagship with a fantastic 6.7-inch AMOLED screen, you’ll find no better than Samsung’s new Galaxy S25 Edge.
At 5.6mm thick and 163g, it’s incredibly thin and light compared to most of the flagship competition, especially big-screen alternatives like the S25 Ultra, which makes for a fantastic in-hand feel. It’s super light yet durable, boasting a titanium frame and IP68 dust resistance, with no significant design compromise to achieve its ultra-slim dimensions.
However, it is very much a design-first smartphone. For example, there are only two cameras, lacking the telephoto lens present on much of the competition. It can also struggle to keep the top-end Snapdragon 8 Elite cool, especially when gaming.
The most significant compromise is undoubtedly battery life, as the 6.7-inch QHD+ screen is simply too much for the small 3900mAh cell, resulting in a struggle to last all day.
That said, if you’re willing to compromise and possibly carry around a power bank, the experience of using the S25 Edge is unlike anything else on this list.
SQUIRREL_PLAYLIST_10207621
Excellent and brighter external display
Solid camera performance
Unique finish options
Smooth performance
Only 3 years of Android OS updates
Moto AI still needs work
No telephoto lens
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip line might’ve popularised the modern clamshell foldable, but it’s not the best around. That award goes instead to the Motorola Razr 60 Ultra.
While this year’s release doesn’t reinvent the wheel compared to the 50 Ultra, the refinements are meaningful. A tougher titanium hinge and improved IP48 dust and water resistance make it more durable where it counts.
That core experience remains slick and satisfying, and given that this is the best flip phone we’ve tested, that’s high praise. The standout feature remains the generous 4-inch cover screen, which handles both widget and full Android apps with ease, letting you do more without flipping it open.
When you do open it, you’re treated to a vibrant 7-inch pOLED display wth Pantone Validated for spot-on colour accuracy. It’s a great panel for everyday use, and while the crease hasn’t vanished, it’s shallower and far less distracting than what rivals offer.
Under the hood, you’ll find the Snapdragon 8 Elite, paired with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage as standard. Battery life similarly impresses, lasting all day without a charge, and 68W fast charging tops it up in under an hour.
Yes, Motorola’s combination of three OS upgrades and four years of security patches lags behind Samsung’s seven OS upgrade promise, but overall, it’s the most capable and polished clamshell you can buy right now.
SQUIRREL_PLAYLIST_10207648
Lightest book-style foldable around
Ultra thin design makes it really nice to use
Larger, wider, wholly more useful screens
Same main camera as Galaxy S25 Ultra
Relatively small 4400mAh battery
Slow 25W wired charging
Zoom camera could be better for the price
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 marks a genuine leap forward for Samsung’s book-style foldable, finally delivering the ultra-slim, lightweight design many have been waiting for.
Shedding much of the bulk and weight of its predecessors, the 4.2mm-thick Fold 7 is now among the thinnest foldables around, and at 215g, it’s both lighter than the book-style competition and even the Galaxy S25 Ultra. It makes it a joy to handle, and it’s almost unnoticeable in the pocket as a result.
Samsung has also nailed the usability of both displays this year. The wider 6.5-inch cover screen is genuinely practical for everyday tasks, while the 8-inch internal panel feels more solid with a way less intrusive crease. Both screens are bright, vibrant and ideal for everything from gaming to multitasking.
Camera performance is another highlight, with the main 200MP sensor borrowed from the S25 Ultra delivering sharp, detailed shots that put the Fold 7 on par with regular bar phones. General performance is equally impressive, thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Elite and up to 16GB of RAM.
Battery life and charging remain the main drawbacks with a 4400mAh cell and 25W charging falling far behind rivals. Still, for most users, the Fold 7 will comfortably last a day, and the overall package is compelling enough to make it the standout book-style foldable of 2025.
SQUIRREL_PLAYLIST_10207783
Incredible performance
Excellent speakers
Slick professional design
Awesome LED lighting effects
Very expensive
Cameras aren’t the best
Charging could be quicker
The Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition may not be the most rounded Android phone on this list, but it excels at its main point of interest: gaming.
There are oodles of gaming-centric features here, from the AirTriggers that allow for gamepad-esque controls to the Armoury Crate software that enables you to fiddle with the performance settings and display frame rate, temperature and GPU workload figures as you play your favourite mobile games.
The real highlight is the Snapdragon 8 Elite found within. When combined with Asus’ top-notch internal optimisations including an impressive cooling system that sustains gameplay for way longer than regular smartphones, you’ve got one of the most powerful Android phones you can buy.
That’s all well and good, but plenty of gaming phones offer similar performance-focused features. Where the ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition stands out is in the design department by, well, not looking like a gaming phone at all.
Instead, the phone looks not too dissimilar from your regular flagship smartphone with a glass and matte frosted finish on the rear, slimmed down bezels and even a 3x telephoto camera to bolster the rear camera setup. There are still a few gamer-centric design features, like the AniMe panel that can display text, graphics and more, but that disappears from view when not in active use.
The only major stumbling block for this phone is that it’s incredibly expensive, requiring a sum beyond the £1000/$1000 mark. As a result, it may be worth sacrificing a couple of features and opting for the older Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro (with a fairly similar spec) instead.
Best battery life of any Pixel
Clean, more understated look
Great camera performance
Premium AI features
Thick screen bezels look dated
No dedicated zoom lens
Tensor G4 not as powerful as other flagship chips
Slow charging
The Pixel 9a is a compact Android phone with an excellent camera, Google’s fantastic software and a price tag that won’t break the bank.
The Pixel 9a breaks tradition and sports a different look to the flagship Pixel 9, ditching the iconic camera bar for a near-flush dual camera housing. Combined with its flat edges and flat screen, it’s a joy to hold and use, though it does have that plasticy feel on the rear.
The Pixel 9a also has an impressive camera setup. Its new 48MP primary camera, like those that came before it, is capable of capturing excellent images in various lighting conditions and accurately captures skin tones. Google really does continue to dominate the mid-range camera space.
Then there are all the AI smarts; in addition to all the AI features on previous ‘a’ series devices, including Best Take, Magic Editor and Magic Eraser, you’ll benefit from the Add Me tech introduced on the Pixel 9 last year. There are other AI-infused elements throughout the OS too, allowing the phone to transcribe recordings and even take calls for you in certain regions.
Plus, with a whopping seven years of OS upgrades guaranteed, it’ll continue to get even more features and functionality over time. That’s a massive boost compared to the three or four upgrades you’ll get from competitors, if you’re lucky.
SQUIRREL_PLAYLIST_10207452
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FAQs
Should I buy a 5G phone?
While not vital, all phones featured in our chart offer 5G, so they are futureproofed.
What’s the best Android phone?
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the best Android phone available right now.
Which Android phone has the best camera?
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is currently our top pick, though the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and iPhone 16 Pro Max are close runners-up.
Test Data
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Xiaomi 15 Ultra
OnePlus 13
Honor Magic 7 Pro
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge
Motorola Razr 60 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition
Google Pixel 9a
Geekbench 6 single core
1865
2886
2891
3123
2981
2524
2828
2318
3055
1652
Geekbench 6 multi core
4144
9515
8764
9493
8318
9220
8552
8828
9658
3801
Max brightness
3000 nits
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
1 hour video playback (Netflix, HDR)
6 %
–
5 %
–
7 %
–
6 %
8 %
6 %
1 %
30 minute gaming (light)
11 %
7 %
6 %
–
6 %
16 %
5 %
7 %
10 %
6 %
Time from 0-100% charge
80 min
62 min
91 min
–
89 min
76 min
80 min
87 min
46 min
108 min
Time from 0-50% charge
24 Min
20 Min
29 Min
–
36 Min
25 Min
39 Min
31 Min
18 Min
40 Min
30-min recharge (included charger)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
76 %
–
15-min recharge (included charger)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
39 %
–
30-min recharge (no charger included)
62 %
70 %
52 %
–
43 %
61 %
40 %
49 %
–
40 %
15-min recharge (no charger included)
29 %
35 %
30 %
–
24 %
33 %
23 %
24 %
–
22 %
3D Mark – Wild Life
2511
6680
–
6647
6574
–
6294
5574
5948
2597
GFXBench – Aztec Ruins
44 fps
78 fps
–
60 fps
106 fps
76 fps
105 fps
70 fps
138 fps
66 fps
GFXBench – Car Chase
53 fps
77 fps
–
60 fps
118 fps
82 fps
95 fps
71 fps
160 fps
79 fps
Full Specs
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Review
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Review
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Review
OnePlus 13 Review
Honor Magic 7 Pro Review
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Review
Motorola Razr 60 Ultra Review
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 Review
Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro Edition Review
Google Pixel 9a Review
UK RRP
£1099
£1249
£1299
£899
£1099
£1099
£1099.99
£1799
£1299
£499
USA RRP
$1099
$1299
–
–
Unavailable
$1099
–
$1999
$1499
$499
EU RRP
–
–
–
–
€1299
–
–
–
–
–
Manufacturer
Google
Samsung
Xiaomi
OnePlus
Honor
Samsung
Motorola
Samsung
Asus
Google
Screen Size
6.8 inches
6.9 inches
6.7 inches
6.8 mm
6.8 inches
6.7 inches
7 inches
8 inches
6.78 inches
6.3 inches
Storage Capacity
128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
256GB, 512GB, 1TB
512GB, 1TB
256GB, 512GB
512GB
256GB, 512GB
512GB
256GB, 512GB, 1TB
1TB
128GB, 256GB
Rear Camera
50MP + 48MP + 48MP
200MP + 50MP + 50MP + 10MP
50MP + 50MP + 200MP + 50MP
50MP + 50MP + 50MP
50MP + 50MP + 200MP
200MP + 12MP
50MP + 50MP
200MP + 12MP + 10MP
50MP + 32MP + 13MP
48MP + 13MP
Front Camera
42MP
12MP
32MP
32MP
50MP
12MP
50MP
10MP + 10MP
32MP
13MP
Video Recording
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
IP rating
IP68
IP68
IP68
IP69
IP69
IP68
Not Disclosed
Not Disclosed
IP68
IP68
Battery
5060 mAh
5000 mAh
5410 mAh
5998 mAh
5270 mAh
3900 mAh
4700 mAh
4400 mAh
5800 mAh
5100 mAh
Wireless charging
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
–
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Fast Charging
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
–
Yes
Yes
Yes
–
Size (Dimensions)
76.6 x 8.5 x 162.8 MM
77.6 x 8.2 x 162.8 MM
75.3 x 9.4 x 161.3 MM
76.5 x 8.5 x 162.9 MM
77.1 x 8.8 x 162.7 MM
75.6 x 5.8 x 158.2 MM
74 x 7.1 x 171 MM
143.2 x 4.2 x 158.4 MM
76.8 x 8.9 x 163.8 MM
73.3 x 8.9 x 154.7 MM
Weight
221 G
218 G
226 G
210 G
223 G
163 G
199 G
215 G
227 G
186 G
ASIN
–
B0DPR5MYZ9
–
–
B0DQ5JLVJP
–
B0F68G1YR8
–
–
B0DSWFHTL2
Operating System
Android 14
OneUI 7 (Android 15)
HyperOS 2 (Android 15)
OxygenOS 15
MagicOS 9 (Android 15)
OneUI 7 (Android 15)
Android 15
OneUI 8 (Android 16)
Android 15
Android 15
Release Date
2024
2025
2025
2024
2024
2025
2025
2025
2024
2025
First Reviewed Date
21/08/2024
30/01/2025
02/03/2025
07/01/2025
17/01/2025
23/05/2025
20/05/2025
17/07/2025
19/11/2024
10/04/2025
Resolution
1344 x 2992
1440 x 3120
3200 x 1440
1440 x 3168
1280 x 2800
1440 x 3120
2992 x 1224
2184 x 1968
2400 x 1080
1080 x 2424
HDR
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Refresh Rate
120 Hz
120 Hz
120 Hz
120 Hz
120 Hz
120 Hz
165 Hz
120 Hz
185 Hz
120 Hz
Ports
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C x2, 3.5mm headphone port
USB-C
Chipset
Google Tensor G4
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
Google Tensor G4
RAM
16GB
12GB, 16GB
16GB
12GB, 16GB
12GB
12GB
16GB
12GB, 16GB
–
8GB
Colours
Porcelain, Rose Quartz, Hazel, Obsidian
Titanium Silver Blue, Titanium Black, Titanium White Silver, Titanium Gray
Black, White, Silver Chrome
Black, Blue, White
Lunar Shadow Grey, Breeze Blue, Black
Titanium Silver, Titanium Jetblack and Titanium Icyblue
Pantone Rio Red, Pantone Cabaret, Pantone Mountain Trail, Pantone Scarab
Restarting your device and your internet can help fix the Netflix error code NW-2-5.
Make sure your device is connected to the internet to resolve the NW-2-5 error code.
Netflix error code NW-2-5 signals a network connectivity issue, which means your device can’t reach the necessary resources to use Netflix properly. It’s a common but challenging issue to identify and fix. However, by following the right steps, you can usually resolve it yourself.
How to Fix the NW-2-5 Netflix Error
The steps you need to take may differ slightly depending on your device. Follow these directions to fix Netflix error code NW-2-5:
Press Try Again on the error screen. Sometimes, that’s all it takes.
Restart your device.
If your device has a sleep mode, be sure to shut it down fully before restarting. In some cases, you may need to unplug the device for up to one minute before turning it back on.
Ensure your device is connected to the internet.
Some devices can test the internet connection for you. If yours doesn’t, open any app other than Netflix that requires an internet connection. If that app can access the internet, you’re connected and can move to the next step.
You might also need to disable and reenable internet connectivity on your device. On a phone, tablet, or computer, you can do this by toggling Airplane Mode on and off.
Verify that your network supports streaming.
Some networks disable streaming or block Netflix to save on bandwidth. If you’re connected to the internet through a university, hotel, or another large network, contact the network administrator to see if streaming has been disabled. You can skip this step if you’re at home or control your network.
Disconnect from your VPN if you’re using one, as Netflix often doesn’t work well with VPNs.
Restart your home network.
Turn off both your router and modem if they’re separate devices. You may also need to unplug them to fully resolve the issue.
Verify your DNS settings.
Some devices let you check the DNS settings, but if yours doesn’t, you’ll need to skip this step.
Try an Ethernet connection, or improve your Wi-Fi signal.
Using a wired connection offers the best streaming experience. If that’s not possible, reposition your device and router for the strongest Wi-Fi signal.
Reinstall the app.
Whether you’re watching Netflix on your phone, tablet, computer, or TV, there should be a way to remove the app. Reinstall it and log in again.
If you’re in a browser, close the site and clear the cache.
Connect your device to a different network temporarily.
Although it might sound strange, some users have found that connecting the device to a different network fixes the NW-2-5 error. For instance, if your TV displays this error, try connecting it to your phone’s hotspot.
Contact Netflix customer service.
If the issue is on Netflix’s end, you’ll have to wait for it to be fixed.
Contact your internet service provider.
If you follow all of these steps and still have a Netflix code NW-2-5, the only option left is to contact your internet service provider. You may have a hardware issue with your modem, router, or streaming device, but it’s more likely that there is an issue with your internet connection.
ISP-related issues are usually resolved when the company fixes its equipment. If you wait and the problem mysteriously resolves, your internet service provider is likely at fault.
Some internet service providers offer parental controls. You may need to disable those restrictions or alter the settings to use Netflix.
Causes of the NW-2-5 Netflix Error
NW-2-5 is a Netflix error code indicating your device isn’t connected to the internet or something is blocking its connection to Netflix. This error can occur on nearly any Netflix-capable device, including game consoles, streaming devices like Roku, Blu-ray players, and smart TVs.
This error occurs due to a connection problem with your device, home network, or internet service. When this Netflix error happens, your device usually displays this message on the screen:
Netflix has encountered an error. Retrying in X seconds.Code: NW-2-5
FAQ
What does error code NW-1-19 mean on Netflix?
Netflix error code NW-1-19 means that your device can’t connect to Netflix. Turn off any VPN you use, then restart your streaming device, router, and modem.
How do I fix Netflix error code NW-3-6?
To fix Netflix error code NW-3-6, troubleshoot your internet connection. Restart your device and Wi-Fi network. Turn off your VPN and connect your smart TV directly to your modem if possible.
How do I fix Netflix error code NW-48?
Netflix code NW-48 is another connection error code. Restart everything, disable your VPN if you have one, and restore your network to default settings if necessary.
What is error code NW-2-4 on Netflix?
Error code NW-2-4 on Netflix is an internet connection error, so follow the usual steps for troubleshooting your network. Restart your equipment, turn off your VPN, and reset your connection if you still have trouble.
The forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 is Samsung’s thinnest foldable yet. Our own Allison Johnson just published her full review ahead of the phone’s launch on July 25th, and while there’s certainly no denying it’s a spendy device, know that various carriers and retailers are offering a host of preorder incentives, many of which will expire at launch.
Although the Z Fold 7 isn’t miles ahead of last-gen Z Fold 6 in terms of performance, it measures just 8.9mm thick when folded, making it look and feel like something of a next-gen foldable. The outer screen has also increased in size from 6.3 inches to 6.5 inches, which, when taken into account alongside its thickness, makes the Z Fold 7 feel more akin to a normal phone when folded. Alas, if only it had a “normal phone” price tag instead of an exuberant starting price of $1,999.
That being said, it’s still possible to save on a preorder purchase, or at the very least receive some credit you can then spend on accessories like the Galaxy Watch 8. Whether you plan to shop directly through Samsung, your carrier, or a traditional retailer, here are the biggest promotions along with the key details you’ll want to keep in mind.
You can get up to $1,100 in trade-in credit
The current trade-in savings are big enough to chop the Z Fold 7’s $1,999.99 price tag in half. Ahead of its release on July 25th, Samsung is offering up to $1,000 in credit for the last-gen Z Fold 6 and S25 Ultra — or less, if you’re trading in an older phone. Samsung will give you an instant discount based on the estimated value of your trade-in, which lowers the out-of-pocket cost to $999.99. That’s great, and thankfully, you can get instant trade-in credit even if you’re activating the phone on Verizon or AT&T through Samsung’s site. But that’s not how trade-in credit works if you’re buying directly through carriers.
Carriers across the board are currently offering a $1,100 trade-in credit toward the Z Fold 7, which will be paid back in the form of monthly installments. AT&T will provide $1,100 in credits over 36 months to customers on postpaid unlimited plans who purchase the new phone with an installment plan. As for the phones that AT&T is currently accepting, they include any Galaxy S, Note, and S-series phone, regardless of its age or condition.
Verizon is also offering up to $1,100 in monthly credits over 36 months with an eligible trade-in in “any condition,” although the carrier doesn’t list or even mention any eligible phones. You must also be on an Unlimited Ultimate plan to get that much credit.
T-Mobile is offering up to $1,100 in monthly credits for those auto-paying for a plan that costs $85 or more per month — no trade-in required.
Photo: Allison Johnson / The Verge
Samsung is offering a lot of bonus credit, with a small catch
If you’re preordering directly through Samsung, you will receive a $50 Samsung credit to use on accessories as an extra perk. Those who aren’t trading in a device will get an extra $300 to spend, totaling $350. However, the credit is “use it or lose it,” so to speak; you’ll forfeit it all if you don’t use it at checkout. So, if you do go this route, you’ll want to pick up a pair of earbuds, a case, a Galaxy Watch 8, etc etc.
Keep in mind that the aforementioned credit is exclusive to Samsung’s online storefront and isn’t available when purchasing the Galaxy Z Fold 7 through a carrier, Best Buy, Amazon, or any other retailer.
Not all carriers are offering a free storage upgrade right now
Some retailers, but not all, are offering the 512GB Z Fold 7 for no extra charge through July 24th. This includes Samsung, T-Mobile, Best Buy, and Amazon, the latter of which is also throwing in a $300 Amazon gift card with each purchase. However, AT&T and Verizon aren’t, at least through their respective sites. They each are offering the 256GB model at the same $1,999 price that you can get the 512GB model for elsewhere. That said, activating the Z Fold 7 via Best Buy will allow you to purchase the 512GB variant for $1,899.99 as a one-time payment (or as a $55.55-a-month payment for 36 months).
Glamorize your gift presentations with a set of four reversible wrapping paper rolls in shiny metallic looks! This gift-wrapping paper set includes a total of eight patterns, including plaid, polka dot, solids and stripes, most with shimmering foil finishes on one side and matte paper with metallic ink on the reverse. Classic gold, silver, copper and white color combinations make the wrapping paper rolls stunning choices for Christmas, as well as birthday wrapping paper, graduations, retirements, congrats, housewarmings, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and any celebration. The heavyweight paper is packaged in a continuous roll so it won’t crease, isn’t see-through and is a cinch to cut, wrap and fold over boxes and more. Use the wrapping paper on its own for a clean look or try gift-wrapping ideas like tissue paper shapes, decorations and ornaments (all sold separately). Keep them in your gift-wrap supply for sophisticated ways to wrap presents throughout the year! Includes 4 rolls of reversible wrapping paper Each roll measures 30 inches wide by 8 feet, 20 total square feet. 4 rolls measure 80 square feet total. Each roll can wrap approximately 4 shirt boxes that measure 14.75 inches x 9.5 inches x 1.88 inches. The 4 roll pack can wrap 28 shirt boxes! Made with heavyweight paper that’s recyclable These wrapping paper rolls for Christmas have a silver, gold and white metallic foil finish with designs across solid, stripe, plaid and polka dot patterns. These wrapping paper rolls are the perfect gift packaging option with coordinating designs will add variety and style to your holiday Christmas gift wrapping. Perfect for wrapping Christmas gifts for family, friends and more!
Hulu’s free to download and might come pre-installed, but you need a free trial or subscription to watch content.
Add: Roku Channel Store > search for Hulu > select Hulu Channel > Add Channel.
Watch: Launch Hulu > log in with Hulu username and password > link account on Hulu’s site.
This article answers the questions of whether Hulu’s free on Roku, how to install the Hulu channel, and find and watch Hulu content on your Roku.
Is Hulu Free on Roku?
The Hulu channel might come pre-installed on your Roku, and is free to install if it’s not already on your device. If it’s not on your Roku home screen, follow these steps to install it:
Before you can view content on the Hulu channel, you’ll need a Hulu account and subscription.
From the Roku home screen, highlight Search > OK.
Use the remote’s voice control or the onscreen keyboard to search for Hulu. Highlight it and click OK > Add channel.
Alternatively, select Store or Streaming Store > Apps to search for and add the Hulu channel.
The Hulu channel is now available on the home screen. Highlight the channel and click OK to open it.
Select Log In and click OK.
If you’re going to log in to your account directly on Hulu, highlight Log In on This Device, click OK and go to the next step.
Alternatively, click Activate on a Computer and skip to Step 7.
To log in directly on your Roku, enter your account email and password. Then, highlight Log In and click OK.
To link your existing Hulu subscription to your Roku, use your computer, phone, or tablet to access Hulu’s activation page.
You’ll need the confirmation code that appears on your screen after you log in.
Enter the activation code and wait for the confirmation message to appear on your phone; your Hulu account is linked to your Roku, and you’re ready to start streaming!
How to Watch Hulu on a Roku TV
It’s easy to find and watch Hulu movies and TV shows on your Roku device. Just follow these steps:
Go to the Roku Home Screen > use the remote control to highlight Hulu > click OK.
From the Hulu home screen, browse featured content using the remote to scroll. To dive deeper into movies or TV shows, use the left-hand menu to find sub-categories in each section.
To search, click the magnifying glass icon and type exactly what you want to watch. You can also press the microphone button on the Roku remote and do a voice search.
Highlight a movie or TV show you’re interested in > OK on your remote to view information (summary, running time, seasons and episodes, etc.) about the selection. Select Start Watching > OK on the remote to start watching.
For playback controls, press the up button on the remote to reveal onscreen controls.
The other option is to use the remote control’s physical playback buttons, including play/pause, forward, and back, and volume and mute buttons.
If Hulu Isn’t Working on Roku
The Hulu channel is compatible with the following Roku devices running firmware 11 or higher:
Roku 2 (4210X)
Roku 3
Roku Streaming Stick (3600X, 3800X), Stick+, 4K, 4K+
Roku Express, Express+, 4K, 4K+
Roku Premiere, Premiere+
Roku Ultra, Ultra LT
Roku Smart Speaker
Roku TV, 2K, 4K, 8K
If you are having trouble, restart your Roku (or, if Roku is built into your TV, unplug your TV for 2 minutes).
Still not working? We’ve got troubleshooting tips in Hulu Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It.
FAQ
Is Hulu free?
There’s no free version of Hulu, but there is a free trial to new and returning members. If you’re trying to decide on the right plan, we also have a guide to Hulu vs Hulu Plus Live TV so you can see how they compare.
How do I kick someone off of my Hulu account?
If you suspect someone else might be accessing your account from a specific device, or you’d like to remove device access, log in to your Hulu account on the web. Go to Account > Manage Devices > locate the device > select Remove. To start over completely, sign in at my.disney.com > Access and Security > Log out of everywhere.
We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
Wolfbox G900 Pro: One-minute review
The Wolfbox G900 Pro is a mirror-style dash cam that records 4K forwards and 2.5K video rearwards. The weatherproof rear camera can be screwed to your vehicle’s bumper, turning into a reversing camera. A live video feed from either camera, or both, can be seen on the touchscreen display, which is integrated in the mirror itself.
Both cameras produce excellent, high-quality video, and the user interface is a joy to use – it’s sharp, responsive and intuitive. The Wolfbox app also works well, with videos transferred quickly via 5 GHz Wi-Fi from the dash cam to your phone, although transferring footage directly from the included microSD card isn’t an option for macOS users, due to how the card is formatted by the dash cam.
Installation is more involved than with other dash cams, and the separate GPS antenna creates extra clutter that you’ll likely want to hide. The design of the G900 isn’t perfect, as I found that its camera was partially blocked by the mirror assembly of some vehicles. This is a dash cam to try (or at least measure carefully) before you buy.
(Image credit: Future / Alistair Charlton)
Wolfbox G900 Pro: Price & availability
The Wolfbox G900 Pro is priced at $360 in the US and £260 in the UK, although discounts are often available. At the time of writing, the US price on Amazon had fallen to $250.
Unlike some other dash cams, like the Nextbase iQ and Nexar One, the Wolfbox does not have a 4G connection and there are no ongoing data subscription or cloud storage costs.
Wolfbox G900 Pro: Specs
Swipe to scroll horizontally
Wolfbox G900 Pro specs
Video
4K (3840 x 2160) at 30fps (front), 2.5K (2560 x 1440) rear
Field-of-view (FoV)
170 degrees (front), 150 degrees (rear)
Storage
microSD card slot (128GB card included)
GPS
Yes, plug-in antenna (included)
Parking mode
Yes, with hardwiring kit (sold separately)
App support
Yes, Wolfbox app
Dimensions
12.0 x 3.0 x 1.5 inches / 305 x 80 x 45mm
Weight
17.5 oz / 497 g
Battery
No
Wolfbox G900 Pro: Design
Doubles as replacement mirror
Perfect fit isn’t guaranteed
Forward view easily obstructed
Unlike dash cams that stick to the windshield, the Wolfbox G900 Pro acts as a replacement to your car’s central rearview mirror. It straps onto your existing mirror, and gives you both a reflected view of what’s behind, plus a view ahead recorded by the forward-facing camera.
This is made possible because there’s a touchscreen embedded within the G900 Pro’s mirror. The result is a mirror that still shows a clear view of what’s behind, but can also, with a tap to wake up the user interface, show live video from the front- and rear-facing dash cams.
It’s also possible to swipe and tap your way through the G900 Pro’s settings menus, and view recorded footage on the mirror/touchscreen, before transferring it to your smartphone using the Wolfbox app and the G900 Pro’s Wi-Fi connection.
(Image credit: Future / Alistair Charlton)
As well as the main unit, the kit reviewed here included a rear-facing camera that can either be stuck to your rear window with an included adhesive pad or, since it’s weatherproof, screwed to the rear bumper. Here, it doubles as a rear-facing dash cam and also a reversing camera, with its live video feed sent to the display of the main unit.
It’s also possible to wire the rear camera to your car’s reversing light. Then, when the light illuminates the dash cam automatically shows a feed from the rear camera. The main unit is powered from an included 12-volt adapter, but Wolfbox also sells an optional hardwiring kit for a permanent power supply.
(Image credit: Future / Alistair Charlton)
Wolfbox G900 Pro: Performance
Lots of messy cables to hide
Excellent 4K video
Isn’t suitable for some cars
Despite being very different to most other dash cams, the G900 Pro is still relatively easy to install and set up. The main unit attaches to your mirror using a pair of included rubber straps, and is powered from the 12-volt lighter socket in the usual way.
The dash cam has GPS but, unusually for a modern, high-end dash cam, the antenna is not integrated. Instead, the GPS unit is a small box that attaches with a cable and then sticks to the windshield or dashboard. It’s a disappointing bit of hardware design, given the otherwise top-notch specifications of this dash cam. The GPS unit takes up space, the cable needs to be hidden somewhere, and it’s generally a bit of a mess.
I also found the main unit didn’t fit my car’s mirror well. The camera is fitted to the left-hand side of the mirror, which in my car meant having to install the G900 Pro off-center, thus leaving a bit of my car’s original mirror poking out from behind the dash cam. Worse still was how the camera’s forward view was partially obscured by the car’s mirror mount. I could improve the camera’s view, but this meant moving the mirror to an angle where it was no longer giving the view I needed.
(Image credit: Future / Alistair Charlton)
For my own car, a 2015 Mazda MX-5 ND (Miata in the US market), this made the G900 Pro a non-starter. It also shook while driving, and considerably so while stationary with the engine running. The car’s own mirror doesn’t do this, but the constant shaking of the Wolfbox’s mirror and digital interface became a considerable distraction.
Hoping the Wolfbox would perform better elsewhere, I switched it to my partner’s Peugeot e-208. Being an electric car, most of the shaking I‘d experienced in my car disappeared, and being a larger vehicle meant the G900 Pro could be installed without looking too messy. The separate GPS module is still an annoyance, though, and some of the camera’s view ahead was still blocked by the car’s own mirror assembly.
It’s a shame some of the camera’s view is blocked, because the G900 Pro produces excellent 4K footage. It’s honestly some of the best I’ve ever seen from a dash cam, and is arguably on par with a GoPro or other action camera. There’s loads of detail, colors are accurate, and everything is nice and smooth.
The rear camera is almost as good. It has a lower 2.5K resolution, but still does a great job of capturing plenty of accurate detail.
The G900 Pro’s user interface is also impressive. The display is bright, sharp, and responsive, with an intuitive menu system that makes it easy to adjust settings. Wolfbox’s smartphone app is also good.
(Image credit: Future / Alistair Charlton)
The setup process is quick and 5 GHz Wi-Fi makes video transfers speedy too – a good thing, since this dash cam formats its microSD card using a file system unreadable by macOS. I reformatted the card, using my Mac, to exFAT, but the dash cam still insisted on reformatting it. Footage transfers via the app just fine, but it can’t be moved directly from the SD card to a Mac, so you’re forced to use the app.
Recordings viewed in the app also show the car’s location on a map, plus a G-force indicator. This doesn’t seem accurate though, as it often indicated 0.8g of acceleration at 0.0 mph. Some data, like the map, altitude and the G-meter, are lost when recordings are transferred to your phone’s camera roll, and I noticed how the speedometer was slightly delayed when compared to the footage.
I also encountered an issue where the map that accompanied each recording (provided by Apple Maps) was blank. This was rectified by granting the Wolfbox app constant access to my iPhone’s locational data.
Back to the positives, and I’m sure some drivers will love how this dash cam doubles as a rearview mirror. If you drive a van, for example, or any vehicle with limited rear visibility, seeing the rear-facing camera’s feed on the mirror can be really useful.
I can’t really see the point of the G900 Pro constantly showing the front-facing camera’s view, since that’s the same as looking through the windshield, but thankfully it’s easy to either show the rearview only, or have no camera feed at all. In that state, the G900 Pro acts like a conventional mirror, but with a simple interface showing the time and date in one corner.
Wolfbox G900 Pro: Sample video
Should you buy the Wolfbox G900 Pro?
(Image credit: Future / Alistair Charlton)
Buy it if…
Don’t buy it if…
How I tested the Wolfbox G900 Pro
I installed the G900 Pro in two different cars
I used the front and rear cameras on several journeys
I used the Wolfbox app and analyzed recorded footage
To thoroughly test the Wolfbox G900 Pro I installed it in two different cars. The first showed how this mirror-style dash cam doesn’t work perfectly in some vehicles, while the latter cast it in a better light. I completed numerous journeys with both cars, then transferred footage to my phone and computer for a closer look.
A good screencast is useful for all kinds of things, from making a how-to video to showing off a program you coded. Spectacle, an app you might know already for taking screenshots, is one of the easiest way to do that on Linux.
Spectacle Has Screen Recording (With the Right Setup)
Spectacle has been around for a long time as the KDE project’s screenshot tool that’s the default for Plasma desktops and available for many non-Plasma Linux desktops too. You can search your distro’s software browser for “spectacle” and it should come up.
It isn’t news to anyone on the cutting edge of Linux software using Spectacle, but the screenshot app as of version 23.04 a couple of years ago got the ability to make video recordings in addition to regular screenshots. I was happy to find this out because until then I’d been relying on SimpleScreenRecorder for screen captures. Its less-than-simple interface can be overwhelming, and the project appears to be abandoned; at the time of writing, it hasn’t seen an update since 2021, and unanswered bug reports are piling up. An up-to-date but simple screen-capturing app was just what I needed.
There are a couple of big caveats, though. For one, video capture only works with the Wayland windowing system. If your Linux distro is using X11, even the latest version of Spectacle won’t show you the screen record option. Depending on your distro, you might be able to switch from X11 to a Wayland session at your login screen, so try logging out and looking for that option.
Related
ShadowPlay for Linux? Make Screencasts With GPU Screen Recorder
This tool for recording games is just as good but built for Linux.
Another drawback to be aware of is that Spectacle currently does not record audio of any kind. It won’t capture sound from the software you’re recording, and it doesn’t integrate with your microphone to record your voice either. Audio capture is currently on the feature “wishlist” for Spectacle, but for now you’ll have to go without. I’ll cover some possible solutions at the end.
The Fastest Way to Start Recording
To start recording, you can open Specatcle from the application launcher and then click the Recording button. Why do that though when there are handy keyboard shortcuts? To start recording a specific part of your screen with Spectacle, just hit Meta+R, click and drag to form the area you want to record, and double-click.
A little red dot will appear in your system tray, and you can click it to immediately stop the recording. It may remain for a few seconds while the video saves, then you can then find the video file in your Videos/Screencasts directory.
You have more options, though. Here’s a complete list of commands:
Meta+R or Meta+Shift+R: Record a specific region of the screen
Meta+Alt+R: Record the entire screen when you click
Meta+Ctrl+R: Record the next window you click on
Every Useful Configuration Option for Spectacle Recordings
After playing around with Spectacle and fiddling with its settings, I figured out there were a few settings that might be worth changing.
Adjust the Keyboard Shortcuts
Three-part keyboard shortcuts can be hard to remember, and fortunately Spectacle lets you change them. If, for example, you record whole windows most frequently, you could assign the Meta+R global alternative to window recording instead of the rectangular region option. That way the shortcut you use most is the one that’s easiest to remember.
Of course you could assign any shortcut you want. Just make sure it isn’t an already existing shortcut, especially for any application you plan to record.
Force Spectacle to Remember a Region
If you’re repeatedly capturing the same region of the screen, you can tell Spectacle to default to using the same screen region you recorded last, even after closing Spectacle. Just click the dropdown menu for “Remember Selected Area” and change it to “Always.”
Change the Video Format
If you don’t want to save your screen capture as a WebM file, you can switch to MP4, to GIF, or to the WebP format in the settings.
Which one you should choose depends most on what application you plan to watch these screen recordings with, or which platforms you’ll be uploading to. YouTube will accept either MP4 or WebM, for example. Before you start making long recordings, make sure the format you’re using is the one you need.
With that said, though, I noticed weird artifacts in the video when I switched to MP4. There’s a possibility it was specific to my setup, but you should make some test videos and watch them to make sure you can’t spot any strange behavior.
Edit the Save File
By default, Spectacle saves your file in the Screencasts folder. In the Spectacle configuration menu, though, you can tell Spectacle to put them somewhere else.
One use for this feature is automatic organization. For example, with the / operator you could have Spectacle create new subdirectories for each new calendar day. Just paste this into the Filename field:
Or, you could create a subfolder for each window you record, with a number assigned to each new screencast:
/<title>/Screencast_<#>
Want to Record Your Voice? Try These Apps
Like I said earlier, Spectacle unfortunately can’t capture microphone audio. One workaround, if awkward, is to use Spectacle in combination with another KDE app called Recorder. It’s a dead-simple voice recording app that can save in a variety of audio file containers. Just hit the record button in Recorder, then hit Meta+R, and start recording video and audio at the same time.
You’ll end up with two separate files though, and you’ll have to combine them to form a complete video. I recommend Kdenlive for that job. Just import both files into Kdenlive and put the video in the video track and the audio file in the audio track. Since you probably didn’t start recording both at the exact same time, you’ll have to make adjustments in the timeline to the audio track so it syncs up with the video correctly. Then you simply export the project as a new video.
Related
This Linux Tool Makes Terminal Recording Easy
No need for full-fledged screen recorders.
Of course, if you want a fully-featured screen-capturing system, you’re probably going to want to record with OBS Studio. It’s not only free and open source, but it fully supports Linux, and can record software audio and microphone input at the same time.
Whether you’re a fan of Warframe’s brand of sci-fi RPG ninja looting or you’re locked in on Elden Ring Nightreign’s hard-core dark fantasy raids, developer Digital Extremes’ next game might be right up your alley.
Soulframe is an upcoming dark fantasy MMO experience where players, controlling powerful characters known as Envoys, burn the evil out of the land of Midrath. Whereas Warframe is a sci-fi adventure, Soulframe explores human connections with nature through a world of living fables.
The game’s combat centers on third-person hack-and-slash action, as well as magic and ranged weaponry. The classic Digital Extremes attention to detail was put into the arsenal of weapons, which will grow and expand alongside the game.
During the weekend ofJuly 19, as TennoCon 2025 roars to life, all prospective Soulframe players will be allowed into a brief test of the game as the alpha opens up. Here’s how to try it out.
Read more: Warframe Isleweaver’s Spider-Man-Like Frame Is a Masterpiece of Design
Slay fearsome foes and discover unexpected allies in Soulframe Preludes.
Digital Extremes/Screenshot by CNET
What is Soulframe Preludes?
Soulframe is the biggest game developed by Digital Extremes since the release of Warframe in 2013. Despite the similar naming conventions, Soulframe isn’t a prequel to Warframe. The two games take place in entirely separate worlds and spin out unrelated narratives. This is a brand-new game with different gameplay mechanics that’s perfect for players looking to jump into something different.
Soulframe Preludes is the closed alpha version of the game, meaning a lot could change between now and the actual release. The latest update, Soulframe Preludes 10, went live May 27.
The current iteration of the game lets players battle corrupted foes like the Will-o-wings and Mendicant King, wield fearsome weapons and sidearms and even ally with factions to befriend their very own (fearsome) wolf pup.
Soulframe Preludes is a way for development to continue while gathering community suggestions from previewing players, and getting a key to the closed alpha qualifies you to join a special Discord server (and will unlock for you the Alca’s Eye item in-game upon the full release, as appreciation for your feedback).
How to get into the Soulframe Preludes alpha during TennoCon 2025
Soulframe Preludes is currently available only to PC gamers because this is a limited alpha launch intended for community-centric testing and development.
Anyone who creates a Soulframe account will be able to access Soulframe Preludes 10 for the duration of TennoCon 2025. Here’s a step-by-step guide to start your Soulframe journey:
Go to Soulframe’s online home page.
Click the “join us” button.
Fill out an email address, password and envoy name (this will become your Soulframe in-game name, so choose wisely).
Accept the privacy policy and participation agreement.
Click “join us” and check your email for a verification link.
Optionally, you can navigate to your account’s personal information and link a Twitch account to earn Soulframe Twitch drops for the game’s full release.
Download the Soulframe Preludes build from the website’s home page.
Soulframe’s mix of grounded combat and Warframe-like RPG systems will be on display during the open alpha test this weekend.
Can I play Soulframe Preludes after TennoCon?
You’ll be able to play Soulframe Preludes after the TennoCon open alpha test is closed, but you’ll once more need to sit tight for an access key to do so. You need a Soulframe account spun up to be eligible for Soulframe Preludes access.
The good news is that following the same steps to enter Soulframe Preludes during TennoCon 2025 puts you in the pool to be sent a key to access the game after the alpha closes again. It’s likely there will be additional open play tests in the future, but Digital Extremes hasn’t indicated when those might be — so if you want to play soon, keep an eye on your email.
Once you’ve verified your email address, there’s nothing else you can do but wait for a Soulframe Preludes key. These are released in weekly waves and include keys for friends as well, so if you’re lucky enough to have co-op buddies, they might be able to usher you into the alpha more quickly.
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