Recent discounts were offered on the Galaxy Tab S9 series by Samsung US, but the 2022 Ultra models are now offering even better deals. The base Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra with 8/128GB configuration is now priced at $700, while the 12/256GB version is on clearance at $750. In comparison, a 12/256GB Tab S9 Ultra is priced at $1,070.
Both tablets feature large 14.6” 120Hz AMOLED displays and 11,200mAh batteries with 45W fast charging. The main difference lies in the chipset, with the older model sporting a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and the newer one featuring Gen 2. Additionally, the newer model includes IP68 dust and water resistance capabilities. Whether these upgrades are worth the additional $300 is up to the consumer.
Samsung US is also offering carrier deals with up to $1,000 trade-in credit for the Galaxy Z Flip5 and Z Fold5. The 512GB Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 is available for $900 on Amazon, while it is priced at $1,120 on Samsung.com. Even the 256GB version is $1,000 before trade-ins are applied.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 remains on the pricier side, priced at $1,400 for a 12/256GB unit. However, the upcoming Z 6 generation is expected soon, with talks of more affordable FE and premium Ultra models.
Alternatively, consumers can opt for the OnePlus Open priced at $1,500, featuring 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. This device offers LTPO displays both inside and out, a 64MP 3x tele camera, and a 48MP ultra-wide camera.
Samsung chose not to launch the Galaxy A55 in the US, leaving consumers with a choice between the Galaxy A54 and Galaxy S23 FE. The S23 FE stands out with a more premium build and a more powerful chipset – Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 compared to Exynos 1380 used in the A54. Additionally, the S23 FE features a tele camera with an 8MP module and a 3x lens. However, its 8:28h active use rating pales in comparison to the A54’s 11:15h, which also offers expandable storage. With a $200 price gap, the older A54 might be the preferable choice in this scenario.
OnePlus offers foldable phones and tablets in the US, with the OnePlus Pad featuring an 11.61” IPS LCD display. This device offers a high-quality panel with 10-bit colors, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, running at up to 144Hz. The Pad includes a Dimensity 9000 chipset with a powerful GPU for gaming, quad speakers, and a 9,510mAh battery supporting 67W charging, making it ideal for entertainment and productivity.
Aside from new foldables, Samsung is anticipated to launch its smart ring at the upcoming Olympics. The Galaxy Ring joins the smart ring market, which has already been explored by companies like Oura with its third-generation ring released in 2021.
The Oura Ring is priced at $300 for the silver version, offering various color options to suit individual preferences. Consumers can visit a store or purchase a sizing kit for $10 as rings are not adjustable like smart bands. Similar to smart bands, the Oura Ring can track vital metrics such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep quality, and body temperature, even providing women’s cycle prediction up to 30 days in advance.
While smartphone gaming dominates the current market, dedicated portable consoles like the Asus ROG Ally have created their own niche. The Asus ROG Ally (Ryzen Z1) was briefly available for $300 on Best Buy, now priced at $400. However, consumers can still find open box units at the $300 price point, offering the ability to play Windows games that may not run on mobile devices, except through streaming services.
Asus ROG Ally
AMD Ryzen Z1, 7″ 120Hz 1080p LCD, 512GB
$100/$200 off
We may receive a commission from qualifying sales.
