Nerd and Normal | Buying A New Phone

Smartphone Evolution: From Bricks to Foldables

Gareth and Matthew discussed the history of smartphones. They explored the rapid technological advancements in smartphones over the past 20 years, highlighting the transition from basic models to foldable devices. Matthew explained the demise of Windows phones due to a lack of developer support compared to Android and Apple.

Smartphone Evolution and Preferences

Gareth and Matthew discussed the evolution of mobile phones, highlighting the advancements from basic models to modern smartphones with minimal physical buttons. They noted the dominance of Apple's iOS system and the saturation of the Android market. Matthew suggested that the choice of smartphone often depends on personal preference and familiarity with ecosystems. They also touched on the desire for smartphones to perform multiple functions beyond making calls, such as taking photos and playing games.

Phone Technology and Camera Quality

Matthew advised people to stick with their current phone brand if they are satisfied, whether it's Apple or Android, as switching can lead to changes in email programs and settings. He explained that larger phone screens are becoming more popular due to increased content viewing, such as watching movies and playing games. Matthew also discussed the evolution of phone cameras, noting that while smartphone cameras have improved significantly, they still cannot match the quality of dedicated cameras. He emphasized the importance of researching camera quality when considering a new phone.

Samsung Phone Network Ban Discussion

Matthew explained that Samsung phones from 2017, including the Galaxy J5, Galaxy A7, and Galaxy S7 Edge, will be blocked from using Optus and Telstra networks in November due to their inability to dial emergency numbers on Vodafone networks. He emphasized that affected users should have received text messages from their providers about replacing their phones. Matthew also discussed the limitations of mobile phone technology, noting that while each new generation offers increased speed, signal strength and distance have decreased, leading to spotty reception in some areas. He suggested that the federal government may need to build more towers to address these issues.

Affected mobiles can be found here.

SM-A720F	Galaxy A7 (2017)
SM-A520F	Galaxy A5 2017
SM-J120ZN	Galaxy J1 2016
SM-J320ZN	Galaxy J3 2016
SM-J530Y	Galaxy J5 (2017)
SM-N920I	Galaxy Note 5
SM-G920I	Galaxy S6
SM-G925I	Galaxy S6 edge
SM-G928I	Galaxy S6 Edge+
SM-G930F	Galaxy S7
SM-G935F	Galaxy S7 Edge

 

Apple vs Android Phone Features

Matthew and Gareth discussed the differences between Apple and Android phones, focusing on app installation and flexibility. Matthew explained that while Apple phones offer simplicity and security. Matthew advised against upgrading to iOS 26, citing ongoing issues, and recommended keeping older phones working as long as possible unless there are significant problems.

iOS Version Update Advice

Matthew advised Gareth to stick with iOS 18.7.1 for now, as the latest version, iOS 26, has not been fully tested and may have issues. He explained that Apple has changed its numbering system to appear more advanced than Android, which is currently on version 16. Gareth asked about the security implications of not updating to iOS 26, and Matthew clarified that while iOS 18 updates typically fix problems, iOS 26 introduces significant changes that may require multiple updates to address.

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