Is The iPhone 14 Worth It? Review Criteria

There are plenty of factors that make a good phone. Some of the key criteria include:

• Design and weight: Build quality, aesthetics, and low weight are a must for a phone that’s fun to use.
• Hardware: Solid CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage options are necessary for leisure and work.
• Display: Screen quality and resolution are integral to the user experience.
• Camera: A good camera system is standard with the latest phones from industry leaders.

Design

The iPhone 14 retains the standard rectangular shape with a sleek aluminum and glass body. The Ceramic Shield front cover and tough glass back enhance durability, while the IP68 rating ensures splash, water, and dust resistance. The device measures 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 inches and weighs 6.07 ounces, making it compact and fairly light.

The iPhone 14’s design is nearly identical to the iPhone 13, including the notch for the TrueDepth camera and Face ID. The actual viewable area of the display remains generous, providing an immersive viewing experience.

Hardware

While newer phones have outclassed the iPhone 14, it’s still no slouch.

CPU

The iPhone 14 is powered by the A15 Bionic chip, featuring a 6-core CPU that delivers outstanding performance and efficiency. This chip is great for multitasking, gaming, or running demanding applications.

GPU

The iPhone 14’s 5-core CPU offers enhanced graphics performance, making it ideal for gaming and media consumption. The GPU supports complex rendering tasks and is optimized for the latest games and augmented reality experiences.

RAM

With 4GB of RAM, the iPhone 14 provides ample memory for everyday tasks and more intensive applications. This ensures smooth multitasking and high responsiveness.

Storage

The iPhone 14 comes in three storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. These choices provide flexibility for users with varying storage needs, whether for apps, media, or other data.

Battery Life

Battery life is one of the iPhone 14’s standout features. The device houses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that offers impressive longevity. Apple claims up to 17 hours of video playback, and our tests found it lasts about 9 hours and 28 minutes of continuous 5G web surfing. The device supports 20W fast charging, reaching 54% in 30 minutes. Wireless charging is another desirable, convenient feature of the phone. However, all batteries have limited recharge cycles and battery claims depend on individual use and network configuration.

Camera Quality

The iPhone 14’s camera system is a significant upgrade from its predecessors, featuring a dual-lens setup with a 12MP wide and a 12MP ultra wide camera. The ultra wide camera captures a broader scene, while the wide camera offers better low-light performance with its larger sensor and faster aperture.

The iPhone 14 has numerous excellent software features, some new and some returning. Sensor shift optical image stabilization reduces blur in photos and videos, and Night mode greatly improves low-light photography. The new Photonic Engine computational photography feature further enhances image quality.

Video recording capabilities are also impressive, with support for 4K at 60 fps and HDR video recording with Dolby Vision. The Action mode ensures smooth and steady video capture, even when in motion, making it ideal for dynamic shoots. Slo-mo video support at 1080p at 120 fps adds creative possibilities.

The front TrueDepth camera offers autofocus and a faster f/1.9 aperture, improving selfies and video calls. It also supports features like Portrait mode, Portrait Lighting with six effects, and depth control for enhanced image quality.

Pros and Cons of iPhone 14

The iPhone 14 specs and features are impressive, but there are also drawbacks.

Pros:

• Excellent camera system with sensor-shift, optical image stabilization, depth control portrait lighting, and night mode
• Apple ecosystem integrations, such as Apple TV and MacBook integrations
• Control the phone with only your voice
• A wet iPhone 14 is survivable up to a maximum depth of 6 meters up to 30 minutes
• Powerful A15 Bionic chip for smooth video support for 1080p and video calling
• Good battery with fast and wireless charging support
• Robust Super Retina XDR display with vibrant colors
• Supports Apple Pay and Emergency SOS via satellite
• Can detect a severe car crash and call for help with emergency SOS via satellite
• Action mode for smooth video recording
• Supports Apple Lossless audio and Dolby Digital for high-quality sound

Cons:

• Some may find the basic model and iPhone 14 Pro Max overly-familiar
• No optical zoom, only digital zoom
• 60Hz refresh rate, unlike the Pro models with 120Hz
• Removal of physical SIM cards may inconvenience some users
• Limited storage options without expandability

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 14 Worth It?

The iPhone 14 is a solid choice for those seeking a high-quality iPhone with the latest features without the premium price of the iPhone 15. Its combination of powerful hardware, impressive camera capabilities, and good battery life make it a great fit for tech-savvy, budget-conscious consumers. If you’re in the market for an iPhone that balances price and performance, the iPhone 14 is worth considering.

Get a Refurbished iPhone 14 With Gazelle

Purchasing a pre-owned iPhone 14 from Gazelle is great for you, your wallet, and the environment.

Certified Quality

Gazelle ensures that all refurbished iPhone 14 models meet rigorous standards of quality and performance. Each device undergoes a comprehensive 30-point inspection process, where certified technicians test and refurbish the phones using official parts. This ensures the devices are fully functional, with only minor cosmetic blemishes. We back our commitment to quality with a 30-day return policy and a one-year warranty.

Cost Savings

Buying a refurbished iPhone 14 from Gazelle is a smart financial decision. You get the same high-quality phone with all its advanced features, like the Super Retina XDR display and cinematic video stabilization (4K), at a significantly lower price compared to a brand-new model.

Environmental Benefits

Choosing a refurbished iPhone 14 from Gazelle also supports environmental sustainability. By extending the lifecycle of electronics, you can cut e-waste and prevent pollution. Buying refurbished phones keeps them out of landfills, reducing the demand for new devices and minimizing industrial pollution.

Purchasing a refurbished iPhone 14 from Gazelle means getting a high-quality, cost-effective device while making an environmentally responsible choice. Explore our line of refurbished iPhones to find the right model for you.

The post Gazelle Review: iPhone 14 Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Is The iPhone 11 Worth It? Review Criteria

To evaluate whether the iPhone 11 is worth purchasing, consider some key criteria:

• Design and weight
• Hardware
• Display
• Camera

Together, these four categories cover the most important aspects of a new phone for most users.

Design

The iPhone 11 retains a design reminiscent of its predecessor, the iPhone XR, with subtle yet notable improvements. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the previous device, but still light and comfortable in the hands of most users.

The back of the phone carries a square camera bump that adds to the phone’s distinctive look. The front of the iPhone 11 features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display, surrounded by slightly thicker bezels compared to its Pro counterparts. Despite this, the display is bright, clear, and pleasant for viewing.

Hardware

CPU

Apple’s A13 Bionic chip is long since outclassed by the latest releases, but it’s still a solid processor. This 7nm chip includes a hexa-core CPU with respectable speed and efficiency. Whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or using demanding apps, the A13 should be up to the task.

GPU

The A13 Bionic also features a quad-core GPU that supports complex rendering tasks and enhances the overall visual experience, making it ideal for gaming and media consumption. The GPU supports next-generation Smart HDR, which helps it keep up with more recent releases

RAM

The 4GB of RAM available in this model is sufficient for everyday tasks and some more demanding apps. While newer models have greater RAM, the iPhone 11 is still suitable for most use cases.

Storage

Storage options include 64GB, 128GB, and 256 GB. Audiences who have gotten used to high-storage devices may be disappointed by the lack of a 512GB model, but 256GB is still adequate for most people. However, the lack of MicroSD external storage means these limitations are permanent.

Battery Life

The Apple iPhone 11 houses a respectable 3,110mAh battery. According to Apple, the device provides up to 17 hours of video playback, 10 hours of streaming video, and 65 hours of audio playback. Depending on how heavily you use it, you can expect a full day’s use on a single charge.

Likewise, the phone supports fast charging via a USB-C power adapter, although the fast charger is sold separately. Wireless charging is also supported, adding convenience for users. The device’s energy management system intelligently manages power consumption as well, which helps to extend longevity.

Camera Quality and Video Recording

The iPhone 11’s camera system is a dual-lens setup with a 12MP wide and a 12MP ultra-wide camera. While not as versatile as more recent iPhones, it still offers good options for standard photography and landscape shots.

One of the standout features is the automatic night mode, which enhances photo brightness and detail in low-light conditions. This mode significantly improves the quality of photos taken in poor light conditions.

The camera system supports 4K video recording at 24 fps, 30 fps, and 60 fps. Additionally, it can record 1080p at 120 fps and 240 fps for smooth slow-motion videos. The dual stereo speakers enhance the audio experience during video playback, making it perfect for media consumption. Optical image stabilization further ensures steady shots and videos.

iPhone 11: Pros and Cons

While the iPhone 11 offers a range of impressive features, it also has some drawbacks. Here is a summary of its pros and cons:

Pros:

• Improved camera system with night mode and ultra-wide lens
• Apple ecosystem integration including Apple accessories, Macbook computer system, and other iOS operating system devices
• Powerful A13 Bionic chip for smooth performance
• Good battery life and rast charging with lightning connector,
• Affordable compared to newer iPhone models
• Fairly advanced features such as Face ID
• USB-C to lightning cable for USB power delivery
• Wide range of color options
• Stereo speakers for enhanced audio experience
• Supports Apple Pay for convenient transactions
• Splash, water and dust resistant (IP68)
• Much more affordable than more recent releases

Cons:

• Design is similar to the iPhone XR, lacking major visual updates
• No headphone jack or included headphone dongle
• Thicker bezels compared to Pro models
• Digital zoom but no optical zoom feature
• No expandable storage options
• Lacks 5G support, unlike newer models
• Storage and power limited compared to more recent devices

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 11 Worth It?

The iPhone 11 remains a solid choice for those seeking a high-quality iPhone at a more affordable price. If you don’t need the latest features of the newer models, you’ll be surprised just how well this older phone holds up. Features like Apple Pay, 4K video recording, dual SIM support (nano-SIM and eSIM), and stereo sound make for a surprisingly future-proof device.

As an older phone, the iPhone 11 strikes a good balance between price and performance. But for the best value, choose a refurbished iPhone 11 from Gazelle.

Choose a Refurbished iPhone 11 from Gazelle

Choosing to buy a refurbished iPhone from Gazelle lets you help the environment and your wallet in one move.

Certified Refurbished Guarantee

You can be confident in the quality and reliability of your device when you buy Gazelle. Our certified refurbished phones pass a 30-point testing process, only use official parts, and function remarkably well. There might be minor scratches, but your phone will be in great working order.

Cost Savings on Great Phones

Buying a refurbished iPhone 11 from Gazelle means you get the same great phone at a fraction of the cost. Enjoy the powerful A13 Bionic chip, the respectable dual-camera system, and the still-pristine Super Retina XDR display.

Environmental Benefits

Purchasing a refurbished iPhone 11 from Gazelle supports environmental sustainability. Choosing a pre-owned device helps prevent e-waste from leaking hazardous chemicals into groundwater sources. Producing a new phone also includes industrial pollution, unlike buying refurbished.

Buying a refurbished iPhone 11 from Gazelle is the easiest way to help the environment, save money, and get a great phone. Explore our catalog today to find the right phone for you.

The post Gazelle Review: iPhone 11 Specs and Features Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

From the phone newbie to the tech aficianado, here are our top device picks for everyone on your holiday shopping list!

Gazelle’s 2024 Holiday Gift Guide

We’ve gathered our favorite devices to help you land the best gift giver title this holiday season.

The Perfect First Phone: iPhone SE or iPhone 11

If you have someone on your list that’s asking for their first smartphone, you can’t go wrong with an iPhone SE or iPhone 11. Both phones provide ample features that your giftee is in search of, while staying within budget. The chances are pretty high that a first phone will be dropped, possibly displaced or even damaged, so aiming for a certified preowned iPhone model is the best way to set your giftee up for success without breaking the bank.

The iPhone SE offers a 4.7″ Retina display with an exceptional camera system for a starter phone. If you’re looking for something with a few more bells and whistles., the iPhone 11 provides a slightly better camera setup and longer lasting battery.

The iPhone SE is currently on our site starting at $87.99 and the iPhone 11 starts at just $158.99.

For the Apple Fan: iPhone 15 Pro Max

Apple is a majorly popular brand for several reasons, but one of the biggest fan favorites by far is the iPhone 15 Pro Max. This Pro model has tons of features that make it the leader of the pack, from the powerful A17 Bionic chip to the impressive 48 MP rear camera. The Max indicates the massive screen, a 6.7″ Super Retina XDR display that provides incredible video playback and the finest of photo details.

Any Apple fan would be ecstatic to unwrap an iPhone 15 Pro Max. Lucky for you, we have them for a fraction of the MSRP. You can score a certified refurbished iPhone 15 Pro Max on our site starting at $709.99.

For The Android Lover: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

If you’ve got an Android fan on your list, you can’t go wrong with the best Samsung release to date. The Galaxy S24 Ultra has all of the exciting features that Galaxy users have come to love and rely on, including the helpful circle-to-search function, live translation, Dynamic AMOLED 2X display and much more.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the latest Galaxy on the market, and you can save big when you shop certified refurbished. The Galaxy S24 Ultra is currently on our site starting at $796.99.

For the Seniors: Samsung Galaxy S22

It’s more important than ever to stay connected with our older friends and family. For the seniors on your shopping list, the Samsung Galaxy S22 is a great gift. This model has a large 6.8 edge-to-edge display that makes for a large, clear viewing experience – especially important for those family photos and videos you’ll be sharing.

Set the senior up in your life with a lrage, accesible Galaxy S22 for less. Our site has certified preowned S22 models starting at just $209.70.

Shop Smart This Holiday Season with Gazelle

With the flurry of online and in-store sales, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos and overspend or settle for gifts that may not suit your shopping list. Get ahead of the curve and save money by shopping our large online inventory of certified preowned devices today.

The post Gazelle 2024 Holiday Gift Guide Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Before you hit the road, make the journey easier, safer, and more convenient for you and anyone else coming along buy using your very own smartphone to make the most of your trip.

Let’s dive into 8 ways you can maximize your next adventure all from the phone in your hand.

Planning and Preparation

Before you head out on your big National Parks adventure, make sure to take time to plan and prepare with your tech.

1. Download EVERYTHING beforehand.

We’re all reliant on our map apps, especially in unknown territory. We recommend downloading any and all maps now while you have solid service or Wi-Fi prior to entering the park. This way, you’ll have a backup in the event that your GPS doesn’t work. You can download maps online or through apps like AllTrails that have a generous amount of information about hiking trails, weather conditions, closure notices and more.

You can also download the National Park app, the official app of the National Park Service, to access park information and plan your visit.

2. Use your calendar and reminder apps for a stress-free journey.

Once you’ve downloaded your maps and any useful apps, you can make sure your calendars and reminders are all up to date. Use your phone calendar to schedule your trip and set reminders for important dates and events. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling with a group and need to remember to book lodging, shop for groceries, hit up the next sale at your local wildnerness outfitters or simply set aside time to pack.

3. Brush up on your knowledge and lean into the hype with podcasts and social media.

Do you have a National Park in mind but not sure on where exactly to go once you’re there? Resources like podcasts and social media are great places to learn more about your destination and plan out your hikes, camping and even nature shots.

There are several National Parks podcasts and social media channels that feature a ton of informational and entertaining content to help you plan for your trip. They’re also handy for things like unexpected closures or emergency alerts.

Safety and Emergency Response

As with any adventure, safety should be top priorty. Luckily, you can also use your smartphone as a presonal locator beacon (or PLB) along with other safety apps.

4. Utilize your phone’s emergency features when necessary.

You can use your phone stay connected in case of an emergency. Sharing your location with your family or loved one prior to the trip is a great way to help keep track of your location. We also recommend taking a photo of your itinerary and sending it to a friend or family member back home in case of an emergency.

Those who have iPhone models with iOS18 compatibility do have the satellite emergency feature.

Photography and Documentation

We get it – sometimes the point of enjoying the great outdoors is to unplug for a bit. You can still do this AND grab some great nature shots with your phone.

5. Prep for some epic nature shots with the right camera settings and accessories.

Using the camera on your smartphone isn’t rocket science by any means, but there are some helpful quick tips that can take your pics to the next level.

• HDR Mode: Ensure that your HDR setting is turned on for photos. This helps increase the range of colors and brightness in your photos to make those red rocks or mountain tops pop.
• Burst Mode: Are there some fast moving rivers or critters you’re grabbing photos of? Try Burst mode. This will grab 10 quick “burst” shots to help you grab the best moment.
• Camera inversion: Our smartphone cameras are designed for optimal vision at the human-eye level. For lower-level ground subjects such as plants and bugs, flip your phone upside down to get an even closer shot of your subject.
• Extended battery life: Use a portable power bank to charge your devices on the go. There are several options for solar powered portable chargers online.
• Water protection: If you plan to be submerged in water at a National Park, consider a waterproof case. While most modern smartphones are waterproof to an extent, these cases often come with wristbands to also help keep your phone attached to you when in rockier waters.
• Drone add-on: A popular yet controversial accessory. There are drone options for your smartphone available to capture aerial footage of the park but you should check park regulations first. You should also be aware of other park goers who may wish to not be part of your drone footage.

Health and Wellness

Your smartphone isn’t just a personal assistant and photographer. It’s also an aid for your health and wellness and can play an important role in your National Park trip.

6. Utilize health apps to stay in tune with your body during your trip.

There are the more obvious features on your phone that help track your current health status such as the Health app on iPhone. This is where you can view your step activity, monitor your heart rate (if using an Apple Watch) and track your sleep.

An additional app that is a great defender against sunburns is UVLens. While it won’t physically protect you like actual sunscreen does, it will provide hourly UV forecasts to know when it might be time for additional sun protection.

Additional Tech Tips

7. Create a shared photo album for your friends during the trip.

“Hey can you send me those pics?” Rather than sending off photos one by one to individuals or even clumping together for the group chat, create a shared photo album for your friends and family. If everyone is an Apple user, you can create an album within your Photos app that allows anyone invited to the album to upload their photos and video. For the Android users, the same can be done with Google Photos or Samsung Gallery.

8. Not sure if a plant is poisonous? There’s an app for that.

Was that poison ivy you just ran through? Are those mushrooms the safe or deadly? Don’t take any risks when there are plenty of plant identification apps available.

Save Money for Your Adventure by Shopping with Gazelle

No matter where your next adventure takes you, having some extra funds for the journey can make a major difference. Instead of paying full price for your next smartphone, consider Gazelle.

We have a massive inventory of certified refurbished devices from top brands like Apple, Samsung, Google, and more that have all undergone a minimum-55 point inspection. Save on your next smartphone so that you can have more for the adventure. Check out our online store now!

The post 8 Tech Tips for National Parks: Essential Tips to Make the Most of Your Next Adventure Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Let’s dive in to the latest and greatest from Apple to help you make an informed decision on your next upgrade.

iPhone 16 Performance

We’ll kick things off with the inside of the iPhone 16 line. All four iPhone 16 models run on Apple’s latest A18 processor. How does this compare to previous models? The base iPhone 16 models are up to 30% faster than the iPhone 15 running the A16 processor. The iPhone 16 Pro models running the A18 Pro processor are up to 22% faster than the A17 Pro processor.

If you’re in the market for a smartphone that’s the fastest available, the upgrade may be worth it. The iPhone 16 Pro series is said to have the fastest CPU available of any smartphone.

Apple Intelligence Features

One of the most exciting additions to the iPhone 16 line is Apple Intelligence technology. The new Apple Intelligence features offer something for pretty much anyone in terms of AI features:

• New writing tools for messaging, email and more
• Image Playground app
• Private Cloud compute
• Genmoji AI
• Ai upgrades to Siri for more concise language learning

Apple Intelligence will be available in iOS18 Beta this fall starting with iPhone 15 Pro models up to the latest generation of iPhone 16. If you’re more interested in having access to the new AI features, upgrading to an iPhone 15 Pro or later is your best option.

Camera Control on iPhone 16

The other most noticeable upgrade to the iPhone 16 lineup is the new Camera Control button on the side of the phone. Not only is the new system a majorly convenient way to quickly snap pics and video, but it also acts as a scrolling tool to assist with camera settings.

The Camera Control button is a new button that registers touch and gestures and enables several functions, including quickly accessing camera tools and switching between camera lenses and photographic styles.

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models features a 48MP main camera, a 2x telephoto camera, and a new ultra wide camera that allows for 2.6x more light. The baseline models also feature macro photography and spatial capture as well.

The iPhone 16 Pro models have 48MP main, 48MP ultrawide, and 12MP 5x zoom cameras. The iPhone 16 Pro’s zoom camera has been upgraded from 3x to 5x zoom.

The new Camera Control feature on all of the iPhone 16 devices make this a solid upgrade for any avid photographers and videographers that rely on their smartphone.

iPhone 16 Design and Colors

On the backside, the base iPhone 16 models have a refreshed oval camera design with vertically aligned cameras. The iPhone 16 Pro models have the thinnest borders “on any product” Apple has released. This creates more actual viewable area for the device while adhering to the classic design all Apple fans are familiar with.

The iPhone 16 models will be available in various colors, including black, green, pink, blue, and white.

Battery Life and Charging on iPhone 16

Apple claimed a “big boost in battery life” for the base iPhone 16 models. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has the “best iPhone battery life ever” with up to 33 hours of video playback.

The iPhone 16 models support fast charging and wireless charging, with a new MagSafe charger available for faster wireless charging.

iPhone 16 Pro Max Exclusive Features

If you’re looking to upgrade to the latest, greatest AND the biggest, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is where it’s at. This model has a larger display and a more powerful processor than the standard iPhone 16 models.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max also has a longer battery life and a more advanced camera system. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is the only model that supports spatial audio and has a more advanced microphone system with four internal studio mics.

Conclusion

The iPhone 16 series offers a range of new features and improvements, including a new camera system, a more powerful processor, and a longer battery life. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is the most advanced model, with a larger display, a more powerful processor, and a more advanced camera system. But is it worth the upgrade?

It all depends on what your personal preferences are in a smartphone. If you’re camera savvy and want the latest and greatest, the iPhone 16 Pro line is your best choice. If you’re still deciding, the absolute best next step is to lock in the value of your current phone before you upgrade. Gazelle offers a free, no-commitment trade in offer lock to secure the value of your current phone today before it depreciates even more with the release of the new iPhone line. Visit our site and grab an instant quote today!

The post What’s New with the iPhone 16? Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Your Guide to the Future of Apple’s AI Tools: Everything You Need to Know

At the September 9 Apple Event, the company will introduce the world to its latest iPhone models, the 16 and 16 Pro. While the Apple Event is always exciting, this year’s edition has an extra trick up its sleeve: The big update to Apple’s latest smartphones is the inclusion of the company’s proprietary AI technology, Apple Intelligence.

While AI tools are a big selling point of the iPhone 16 models, they’ll also be available on some other devices with iOS 18.1 support, including the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, the fifth-generation iPad Air and Pro, and a selection of Mac computers. In other words, it’s not just compatible with the latest and most expensive Apple products — in fact, you can already buy several different models of refurbished compatible devices from Gazelle!

While this is Apple’s first foray into on-device generative AI, these new iPhone models are far from the first AI-powered smartphones. Android users have had access to generative AI phones since October 2023, when Google released its Pixel and Pixel 8 Pro models. But what makes Apple’s artificial intelligence features stand out?

What is Apple Intelligence?

Put simply, Apple Intelligence aims to make smart devices even smarter and more helpful by streamlining the user experience by leveraging machine learning algorithms to improve device performance and efficiency. Combining an AI model on the device itself with a supplementary model in the cloud, Apple Intelligence features a host of handy tools to make your life more convenient. In simple terms, the new iPhone 16 models will work faster and harder, so you don’t have to!

Once you opt into using Apple’s AI models, they’ll operate on your compatible devices for free — there’s no subscription service or additional payments necessary. With the help of these AI tools, you’ll be able to write messages, generate AI images, create custom emojis, and much more. The technology also includes a new and improved version of Apple’s ever-popular virtual assistant, Siri. And, of course, Apple invested countless hours of human evaluation to make sure everything works as it should.

Key Features and Functionality

There’s a lengthy laundry list of impressive features included with Apple Intelligence, and each unique user will find value in various aspects of the technology. One of the most broadly useful applications will likely be the model’s robust writing tools.

Rewrite and Proofread Writing Tools

Apple’s Rewrite and Proofread writing tools are quite similar to the widely popular Grammarly platform. These tools help users hone the voice and tone of their writing. Need to write a concise, professional business email? Or do you want to write a fun, casual message to friends? Rewrite and Proofread can help! You can also use these new writing tools to create summaries of longer texts, breaking them down by key topics into tables or lists.

ChatGPT Integration

One of the most talked-about aspects of this new tech is how Apple has seamlessly integrated ChatGPT functionality. Through Apple’s partnership with OpenAI — the creator of ChatGPT — Apple Intelligence users can send complex requests to ChatGPT without opening any additional apps or swapping from tool to tool.

ChatGPT will help Apple devices with the aforementioned writing tools (for example, it will provide users with suggested replies within the Messages app), but the integration goes much deeper than that. OpenAI tools will help Siri handle more complicated information requests, and they’re also integrated into Apple’s AI image generation functionality.

It’s important to note that Apple will ask users’ permission whenever it needs to access ChatGPT, ensuring that ChatGPT only functions when you want it to. You don’t even need a ChatGPT account to use its features within Apple Intelligence. That said, existing ChatGPT subscribers can integrate their accounts with Apple’s AI tools to access paid features, including full access to its data analysis tools, higher messaging limits, image generation tech, and more.

Image Playground

The next feature we’ll discuss is the Image Playground, which closely resembles OpenAI’s “DALL-E” image generation feature. All you need to do is enter key phrases or descriptions and Image Playground will generate images based on them, which you can further customize by choosing the style of image you want. For instance, you can choose to create anything from a lifelike sketch to a cartoonish animation.

For iPad users, Image Playground is compatible with Apple Pencil and doesn’t even require opening a separate app like it does on an iPhone. Instead, you can transform your Apple Pencil sketches into full-blown AI images through the existing Image Wand function. It’s super-fun to play with, so don’t be surprised if you sink more time into Image Playground than you might expect!

Genmoji

Remember Bitmoji, the cartoon avatar creation app that took the internet by storm in 2014? Apple users can now create their own original AI-generated “Genmoji” images.

Simply choose a person pictured in any photo on your device and Genmoji will create an emoji that looks like them. Thanks to the text-to-image functionality in Apple Intelligence, you can also type in a message — such as “a smiley face wearing a beret” — and Genmoji will generate an image based on your prompt.

You can add your Genmoji to text messages, assign Genmoji to contacts, use them as Tapback reactions, or integrate them as stickers in supported third-party applications.

Apple Photos Improvements

Apple Intelligence will also add some fun new functionality to Apple’s Photos app, including the company’s new “custom memory movies.” If you tell your device a story, it will automatically select suitable photos and videos from your device, organizing them into custom memory movies with a narrative arc that suits your chosen storyline.

That’s not the only improvement to Apple Photos, however. Users can now search their photo and video libraries by keywords or descriptions, and Apple Intelligence will also help them find specific moments within their video clips. It’s an incredibly convenient feature that can save you a ton of time.

Siri Improvements

Apple’s virtual assistant has been around since 2010, but Apple Intelligence is bringing some big updates to Siri. One of the most immediately noticeable improvements is the overhauled user interface which aims to make Siri integration more convenient and seamlessly integrated than ever before.

Siri now has much better language processing capabilities, meaning that it understands and interacts with more types of prompts. You can also interact with Siri with a simple double-tap of the Home bar — you don’t even need to go into the Accessibility menu to turn the feature on.

All of that said, the biggest improvement to Siri is likely to be its ability to learn from its interactions with you. Siri will now use its richer language understanding and “personal context” from your activities within iOS to converse with you in a more specifically tailored manner, making conversations feel more human.

In other words, it will remember your activities and previous conversations, much like a human listener would. If you’re concerned about Siri listening to you without your knowledge, you can rest easy — there’s a new visual indicator surrounding the Siri icon that informs you when it’s listening.

Email and Phone Call Transcriptions and Summaries

Apple Intelligence will make its mark on even the most routine functions of a smartphone: making calls and accessing emails. You can now record and transcribe your phone calls on an iPhone and access AI-generated summaries once you hang up. And don’t worry about privacy — if either person activates the recording features, a prerecorded message will play, informing all parties that the call is being recorded.

In addition, email summarization is another handy new tool (who has the time to read an entire email in this digital age, anyway?!). You’ll also find an additional brand-new feature in the Mail app called Priority Messages, which automatically identifies important emails and flags them as “urgent,” helping ensure that you never miss a vital message.

How Apple Intelligence Works

Apple Intelligence operates on two different models, as there are both an on-device model and server foundation models. As the name implies, the on-device version is integrated into the device itself, allowing your iPhone, iPad, or Mac computer to use AI technology without accessing the cloud.

On-Device Model

The on-device version of Apple Intelligence is used more frequently, in large part because it has superior privacy protection, keeping sensitive information in your hands instead of in the cloud. For example, Apple will use the on-device model to search for the podcast episode you want to hear or look up the details of your next flight.

Server Foundation Model

Meanwhile, the server foundation models will automatically kick in when a request lands outside the on-device model’s capabilities. After all, AI requires vast amounts of data, and sometimes the on-device version will need some extra processing punch to resolve a request.

The cloud version has roughly double the capabilities of the internal version, so it can handle much more complex requests. But don’t worry too much about your privacy in the cloud either, as Apple says it will only use your data for specific requests you make.

Apple will also anonymize any data collected before sending it to the cloud, essentially creating a “private cloud” with fewer data-collection concerns. The company is even calling the platform “Private Cloud Compute” to make sure users understand Apple’s commitment to data privacy protection.

User Control and Opt-Out Options

While Apple Intelligence will come pre-loaded on the new iPhone 16 and 16 Pro, users will need to toggle the AI features on before accessing them. Therefore, there are no surprises, and no one is required to use the features if they don’t want to. You can also change your mind and opt out of Apple Intelligence at any time.

Device Compatibility and Availability

While Apple’s artificial intelligence functions are available on many iOS 18.1 devices, it isn’t compatible with all of them. That’s because the artificial intelligence features require a significant amount of memory and some older devices lack sufficient RAM. In short, you can use Apple Intelligence on any iPhone with an A17 Pro chip, and it’s available on most iPad and Mac devices that use the M-series CPU.

Here’s a complete list of the devices compatible with Apple’s new AI features:

Phones

• iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max (coming soon)

Tablets

• iPad Air (5th generation or later)
• iPad Pro (5th generation or later)

Computers and Chip Requirements

• iMac (M1 or later)
• Mac Studio (M1 Max/Ultra or later)
• Mac Pro (M2 Ultra)
• Mac mini (M1 or later)
• MacBook Pro (M1 or later)
• MacBook Air (M1 or later)

The Future of Apple Intelligence

Apple’s artificial intelligence efforts could transform traditional retail and marketing strategies, with personalized AI recommendations potentially replacing conventional advertising methods. The implications extend beyond Apple’s bottom line, with the retail landscape potentially seeing a fundamental shift toward AI-driven personalization.

It’s hard to say exactly where Apple Intelligence goes from here — after all, it’s still in beta for now. But it’s even harder not to get excited about the possibilities in future models of iPhones and iPads, considering the broad functionality of Apple Intelligence’s first iteration. It seems like Apple is just scratching the surface with AI integration, and we can’t wait to see where the company takes this technology next!

Find your compatible device today with Gazelle!

You don’t need to wait until iPhone 16 models hit store shelves to get ready for the Apple AI revolution. Here at Gazelle, we already offer many top-quality refurbished devices that are compatible with Apple Intelligence.

For instance, you can find a lightly used iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max in our inventory, and we also have compatible iPad Air and iPad Pro models available today! Find your next device from Gazelle without paying top dollar, thanks to our 55-point inspection process and free 30-day return policy.

The post Is Apple Intelligence Worth the Upgrade? Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

You know it, because you’re probably already hearing it from your kids: back-to-school lists have gone high-tech. While you weren’t looking, your kid’s most-wanted school supply went from a cartoon character backpack and colorful pencil case to a $1200 phone that, let’s face it, they’re more interested in for their social life than for social studies. But the truth is that kids do need that tech now more than ever before.   

As much as we might want to ‘back in my day’ the situation, modern academics are built around technology. Writing and turning in assignments, researching projects, putting together presentations, and even talking to teachers is done digitally through email and school communication apps. Today, learning to use this tech is as much part of education as math and history, but while 94% of US schools claim to provide essential tech to students in need, these underpowered Chromebooks just aren’t preparing kids for the real world. In ecoATM’s survey of 1,000 parents of school-aged children conducted with Pollfish, 65% said they considered buying new tech for their children once a year, with 56% expressing the need for modern devices to ensure their child has technology literacy. 

Yet even as parents come around to the idea of purchasing a smartphone or other piece of tech for their children, one factor is shouting alarm bells from the rooftops—the price. It’s not just the mounting costs of extracurriculars, the looming spectre of high-priced college, the fact that teenagers could rival a professional basketball team with the amount of food they eat, or the fact that life in general is just more expensive these days. It’s the fact that kids just don’t take care of their stuff. 

Nearly half of these parents (49%) said they are purchasing tech replacements at least once a year!  Shelling out $800 for the least expensive new iPhone stings, but doing it twice a year is madness! 

The vast majority of teens who drive wind up in used cars, but only 32% of parents consider looking into used or refurbished tech. I’m sorry, what? 

Pre-owned devices are the ultimate pick for parents who want to get their kids the tech they need but know in their hearts they’ll end up replacing it well before it’s time for an upgrade. The best part? Kids can’t tell the difference between a brand new phone and a certified preowned one. As smartphone innovation has slowed, so has the need to spring for this years tech. The emojis are the same, the apps work the same, and for connoisseurs of a certain fruit-named brand, the text bubbles are still blue.

Pre-owned tech saves you hundreds of dollars you can use for the rest of their back-to-school supplies, and they still get tech that’s only a generation or two behind but can do all the schoolwork (and more) they need to do. It’s an easy way to help your back-to-school budget make the grade and get a gold star from your teen. 

The post Parents, Kids & Tech: Back-to-School in the Age of Smartphones Lindsey Reece appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

However, a recent trend indicates that smartphone saturation may have reached its peak. More and more Gen Zers — those born from the mid-to-late 1990s through the early 2010s — are ditching their smartphones in favor of “dumbphones,” the practically indestructible devices their parents used to use.

To be clear, this is still a super-niche development, as dumbphones still represent a tiny segment of the mobile phone market. That said, several of the manufacturers we researched for this article claim they’re seeing dumbphone sales double every few years. So, what makes these dumbphones so popular with Zoomers (and are they as good at T9 as their Millennial predecessors)?

What are Dumbphones?

Dumbphones — also popularly referred to as feature phones — do away with most apps and features of modern smartphones. In other words, they don’t have any fun stuff, but they also don’t have many of the negative attributes of smartphones.

As someone whose first mobile phone was a Motorola MicroTAC, I can assure you that even the cheapest modern dumbphone is still way more powerful than the phones we carried around when I was a kid. (The MicroTAC was too big to fit in my pocket and it couldn’t even send texts.) Still, today’s dumbphones are pretty barebones devices — and that’s actually a huge part of the appeal.

These phones focus primarily on calls, text messages, and some basic internet functions like email. Not only are companies now creating new dumbphones, but several models from a bygone era are making a comeback as well. For instance, the classic Nokia 3310 “brick” phone — which nearly every Millennial and Gen Xer was completely obsessed with in the early 2000s — is back and better than ever. (Don’t worry, it’s not that much better…it’s still pretty dumb.)

But, of all generations, why are Zoomers the ones leading the charge to go back to more low-tech devices? And will other generations follow their lead, or is their smartphone addiction beyond help?

Why are Zoomers Transitioning Back to Dumbphone Usage?

There are quite a few reasons why some people — particularly Gen Zers — enjoy the stripped-down nature of a dumbphone. The concept of “doom-scrolling” is all too familiar for many people these days. Some of us simply can’t help ourselves from spending countless hours scrolling through bad news on X (formerly known as Twitter) or comparing ourselves to influencers on Instagram or TikTok.

Living in the Moment

By swapping out a smartphone for a dumbphone, Zoomers prevent themselves from participating in doom-scrolling. Instead, they’re actually participating in antiquated hobbies like reading books and newspapers, conversing with those around them, or picking up crafting, much like their parents did when they were younger. If that sounds boring, that’s kind of the point!

Dumbphones allow users to be more present in their daily lives, a concept that Zoomers are latching onto. According to the market research firm Mintel, 60% of Gen Zers say they want to be less connected to the digital world on a day-to-day basis.

Given this stat, it may not surprise you to hear that the research firm GWI says that Gen Z is the only generation that has actually decreased its social media usage from 2021 to today. It might seem strange that Zoomers are setting aside TikTok in favor of reading a good old-fashioned book, but it’s increasingly true!

Modern Trend-Setting and Nostalgic Yearning

Some Zoomers say their dumbphones can be fascinating conversation starters, as people often ask about their dumbed-down devices and why they chose them. Others see them as a cutting-edge fashion trend — dumbphones as a fashion accessory draw attention in ways that widespread devices like iPhones do not.

Another aspect of Zoomers’ dumbphone usage is a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era, one that many Gen Zers were too young to experience for themselves. As far as trends go these days, you’d be hard-pressed to find one more pervasive than nostalgia.

The rejuvenation of the dumbphone is part of a broader reinvention of retro devices, as Gen Z is also flocking to vinyl records and cassette tapes instead of Spotify and playing outdated 8-bit games rather than firing up a cutting-edge title on the PlayStation 5. In addition, every time you turn on the TV or go to the movies, you’ll see countless intellectual properties from yesteryear rebooted for a fresh young audience. Hollywood even remade “Mean Girls” this year, rebooting a movie that came out back when the OG dumbphones were at the height of their popularity!

Privacy and Availability

Many people — regardless of how old they are — simply don’t like to be available all day, every day. We’ve reached an era where if we don’t respond to every call, text, or WhatsApp message immediately, people wonder if there’s something wrong with us. Some people simply prefer not to be “on call” to their friends, family, and colleagues 24/7/365, instead preferring to carve out a little bit of privacy in an increasingly connected society.

Speaking of privacy, smartphones have plenty of concerns in this area. Whereas dumbphones have very few apps that hoard customer data — which is far too easily leaked — modern smartphones are essentially high-tech surveillance devices. A recent study from Malwarebytes says Zoomers are more concerned than other generations with the risk of private texts and photos being leaked, so it makes sense that they might turn to outdated technology as a solution.

It can feel like some of our apps know more about us than we know about ourselves. They track our every move, know who all of our friends are, learn our spending habits, and much more. With a dumbphone, most of these concerns are essentially out the window, as they barely collect any data at all, not to mention tracking and sharing it!

Kids, Parents, and Schools

Most parents like to be able to get in touch with their kids at any time, so having some sort of mobile phone is necessary. On the other hand, many parents also prefer to limit kids’ access to distracting and anxiety-inducing smartphone features. This can be a tough balance with a smartphone, but much easier with a dumbphone!

Mobile games can be major distractions that eat up countless hours of a child’s day, and scrolling social media feeds can lead to self-esteem issues as kids compare themselves (usually negatively) to influencers and peers. Dumbphones mostly eliminate these concerns while still keeping lines of communication open and available between parents and kids.

Parents aren’t the only ones looking to limit youths’ screen time, as some school districts now ban smartphones as well. For students in these schools, dumbphones provide a workaround that enables them to circumvent the rules while still staying in touch with their friends throughout the school day.

Find Your Refurbished Phone from Gazelle

Whether you’re looking for the latest and greatest iPhones and Androids, or you want an older-model phone that operates more like a dumbphone, Gazelle has plenty of options for you. There’s no need to spend full price when we have a wide variety of certified refurbished devices.

Get in touch with Gazelle for more information about our 30-point inspection process for every device we sell. Or, take a look at our inventory to choose your next device today!

The post The Return of the Flip Phone: Why Some Zoomers Prefer Dumbphones to Smartphones Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Don’t let the burn of a stretched-out budget ruin your summer plans. Here are our top ways to earn extra cash from your phone this summer!

Top Ways to Make Money From Your Phone This Summer

With your trusted smartphone in hand, you’re bound to make some extra income to help with all of the fun summer activities you may have lined up this season.

1. Freelancing Gigs

Freelancing opportunities have existed for quite some time and span across several different skill sets and interests. If you’re looking to get into freelancing, here are some of the most popular jobs you can land from your phone!

• Translation services
• Summer tutoring services
• Freelance writing
• Freelance video and photography services
• Personal assistant gigs

2. Online Rewards Programs

If you’re an avid smartphone user and wish to fill your time making some extra funds, you may be inclined to participate in online rewards programs this summer. Sites such as InboxDollars and Swagbucks offer chances to earn money directly from your phone through things like online surveys, watching videos and leaving reviews online. It should be noted that earning money from these sites may prove to be a bit slower than our other recommendations.

3. Sell Your Old Tech

Do you have any phones or old tablets collecting dust at home? You can make some much needed summer funds from them by selling them online with Gazelle. You can grab a no-commitment quote for your used devices online in just under a few minutes. We’ll take care of shipping fees with a prepaid label, and you can be paid for your used tech quickly without even having to leave the house. It’s a great way to put some change back in your pocket with the option of check, Amazon gift card or PayPal payment.

4. Neighborhood Assistance Apps

You can use your smartphone to make money within your very own neighborhood. Depending on your region, you can set your radius for work and utilize several different apps to make some extra coin this summer:

• Dog walking apps: For the animal lovers, there are apps such as Rover and Wag that allow you to pick up shifts as a dog walker or pet sitter within your neighborhood. These apps allow you to build a menu of your services and set pricing, from quick home drop-ins to overnight watches.
• Handyman apps: Do you know your way around a drill? Maybe you actually enjoy building a certain Swedish furniture brand? Whatever your handy skills may be, there are several apps that you can offer your services through for cash. The more popular apps include TaskRabbit, Thumbtack and HomeAdvisor.
• Delivery apps: These apps do require a set of wheels, but they can prove to be great ways of making added income year-round. Whether it’s package or food delivery, you can choose to deliver within your city and often set your own schedule.

5. Start a YouTube Channel

If you have an eye for content or love storytelling, you may want to look into starting a YouTube channel this summer. While this money maker takes much more effort to create and maintain, it could prove to be an excellent source of year-round income if you dedicate time and energy to it. You never know what your channel could grow to!

Make Money This Summer with Gazelle

Those old devices sitting at home could be sold for instant summer funds. Make some sweet extra money this summer and year-round by selling them with us! The process is super simple and you’ll be paid in no time:

1. Hop over to our trade in site.
2. Answer a few quick questions about the device you want to sell.
3. We’ll provide an instant offer.
4. You’ll have 30 days from creating the offer to use the prepaid shipping label to send us your device.
5. We’ll inspect the device and confirm an offer. Once you accept, you’re on your way to a pay day!

Whether it’s your next vacation or a summer evening out with friends or family, Gazelle has your back with extra money to do more of the little things you love.

The post How to Make Money From Your Phone This Summer Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

In this article, we’re diving in – pun intended – to what that water resistance really means for a smartphone and which of the best waterproof phones would be your best bet.

Understanding Waterproof Phones

First, let’s talk about IP rating and water resistance in smartphones. While a rating may seem the same across all major smartphones, the phones may still have varying water resistance. For example, the Google Pixel is known for its high water resistance rating. It’s better to know now then to find out the hard way with an accidental plunge.

What is IP Rating?

IP rating is a measurement of a phone’s resistance to solid particles, or dust, and water. The first number in an IP rating relates to dust protection, while the second pertains to water. Let’s look at the standard IP68 rating that most smartphones on the market have currently:

A notable example of a phone with a high IP rating is the Motorola Edge, which boasts impressive water and dust resistance.

IP: IP stands for ingress protection.

Solids Rating: The solids rating reflects the dust resistance of the phone. The current top rating, 6, implies that device is dust tight and there should be no ingress of dust for 2 – 8 hours.

Water Rating: The liquid rating refers to water resistance. 8 is the current highest rating, marking that the device is resistant to water damage when submerged in certain water depths for prolonged periods of time.

Top Waterproof Phone Options

We’ll go over the best options for a waterproof phone and accessories depending on your life’s adventures! Whether it’s the best overall, most affordable or specific to a brand, we’ve got you covered with certified refurbished waterproof phones.

Some of the top waterproof phones also offer excellent battery life and fast charging as key features.

Best Overall Waterproof Phone: iPhone 15 Pro Max

If you’re a heavily water-based adventurer, or just pretty clumsy, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is our top pick for best overall waterproof phone. This phone holds the current top dust and water resistance rating of IP68, very promising effort to keep your phone dry.

This iPhone, along with the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Plus, can withstand immersion in 6 meters or 20 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. That means you’ll have a good amount of time to retrieve your iPhone if you drop it.

Additionally, the iPhone 15 Pro Max features an always-on display with a variable refresh rate, enhancing its screen technology.

The only downside of this selection is the price tag as it’s the current newest iPhone model on the market. If you’re looking to save big on an iPhone 15 Pro Max, check out our inventory of different carriers, colors and conditions to save up to hundreds off of retail pricing.

Best Waterproof Android Phone: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

If you’re a tried and true Android fan, this model is the best Android phone selection in terms of water resistance. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has an IP68 water resistance rating, surviving up to 1.5 meters, or 5 feet of water for 30 minutes.

While it’s never recommended to take your smartphone for a swim, this Android phone is the safest option if you happen to be handling it with wet hands and drop it in a shallow body of water. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is also one of the best android phones on the market, which means it also has the downside of higher price tag. Luckily, Gazelle has certified refurbished Android phones for a fraction of the retail price tag.

Best Affordable Waterproof Phone: iPhone SE

If you’re looking for a waterproof phone that doesn’t need to have all of the latest bells and whistles of a new model, the iPhone SE is great phone choice.

The iPhone SE 3rd generation was released in 2022 and is a great water resistant smartphone. This model has an IP67 dust and water resistance rating, which can be paired with a waterproof case or other accessories to add even more water protection.

The iPhone SE 3rd generation is a great overall affordable option for other aspects aside from water resistance such as battery life, incredible photos, video quality and functionality and more. It’s a pretty big bargain for a good phone, and you can score a certified refurbished model with Gazelle starting at just $150. Talk about a win!

Waterproof Phone Accessories

If you’re looking to go above and beyond against water damage, investing in some waterproof accessories is always an option.

Waterproof Phone Pouch: A Budget-Friendly Option

A waterproof phone pouch is a great accessory for water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. It provides waterproof protection for your phone and allows you to take photos and videos underwater. The F-color Waterproof Phone Pouch is a budget-friendly option that is compatible with most cellphones up to 7”.

Waterproof Phone Case: Enhanced Protection

A waterproof phone case provides enhanced protection for your phone against water and dust. It’s perfect for people who want to use their phone in the rain or pool. The AquaVault Waterproof Floating Phone Case is a great option that provides 100% waterproof protection for your phone.

Find Your Next Waterproof Phone with Gazelle

Whether you’re setting out for your summer adventure or just looking for more peace of mind, your waterproof phone is waiting for you at a fraction of the retail price tag at Gazelle.com. We have a large inventory of certified refurbished devices that have all undergone rigorous testing to ensure that they’re up to high performance standards. Browse and make a smart upgrade for less today!

The post The Ultimate Waterproof Phone: Top Picks for a Worry-Free Experience Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.