The start of the school year does not happen alone, there are also several other starts; culture, cinema, offices, etc. to mark the end of recess.
There are also the new “post-pandemic” work habits that affect classrooms as much as corporate offices. Although brand new, hybrid learning environments have great potential in higher education, despite some technical and pedagogical challenges to be addressed.
Let’s see what manufacturers of computer devices offer us. (Rounded prices)
laptop computers
At Samsung, the Galaxy Book 2 360 ($1,200) are hybrid laptop-tablets with full connectivity (Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, HDMI, USB 3.2). Its Studio mode provides intelligent noise reduction during video conferences, as well as automatic framing. Under the hood, this Galaxy is powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core processor that’s powerful enough for gaming and content creators.
At Apple, the MacBook Air performs very well with its new system chips M1 ($1300) or, since July, M2 ($1500). This same M1 chip that is in my MacBook Pro and iPad is surprisingly frugal. Unless you are very demanding on performance, the M1 chip models are more than enough for all tasks. But to give you more latitude, choose 16 GB of RAM instead of 8.
Smartphones
Smartphones occupy an important place in our lives, essential for a host of things such as messaging, games, music or navigation.
There’s no need to ogle the high-end models, mid-range devices offer essentially the same functions, except for a few less fancy materials.
Take the A53 5G, a phone from the Galaxy range that retails for $590 on the Samsung Canada site. Only available in black, it offers a great screen, slim bezels, 120Hz refresh rate and long battery life, up to two days according to the manufacturer.
iPhones and their iOS system are go-to phones for those who prefer a device that is not based on a model or an ad system. The price range is interesting, from the iPhone SE to the 13 Pro, there is a shoe that fits. Note that Apple today presents its new iPhone 14 range.
The Pixel 6a ($600) phones offer good value for money and performance. There are several components identical to the more expensive Pixel 6 Pro, such as the Google Tensor chip, a solid autonomy that lasts up to 24 hours, an excellent trio of cameras and a superb screen with thin borders.
Exchange program
For those who already own devices – computers, telephones – that are technologically outdated, trade-in programs reduce the cost of purchasing new devices. Almost all brands offer such a program.
Earbuds
I liked Apple’s Beat Fit Pro, but found Google’s latest Pixel Buds Pro earbuds even better. The reduction of constant noise (in planes, in cars) is really impressive and the sounds, particularly the bass, surpass what I have heard so far. Their longevity is very good with the battery case and they can be paired with competitors’ devices without any problem. Of course, Google reserves full access to functions if you use a Google account and an Android smartphone. At $260, it’s probably pricey for some, but if you wear them often, you’ll appreciate them.
An external screen
To turn your laptop into a real desktop computer, just connect an external display and a Bluetooth wireless keyboard. A larger work surface is obtained. You don’t have to pay top dollar, for example, an LG 24” screen is only $204 before taxes at Staples. But make sure you have the right connection (USB-C, HDMI, etc.) to connect it to your laptop.