Tom’s Guide reviews of the week: Galaxy S25 Ultra, AI voice recorder and more

A Week in Tech Reviews: From Smartphones to Space-Age Coffee Makers

This week has been a whirlwind of innovation, with a diverse range of tech marvels passing through our testing labs.

We dove into the world of cutting-edge smartphones, scrutinized the latest camera technology, and even explored the realm of high-end coffee brewing. Hear’s a glimpse at the highlights:

is the Galaxy S25 Ultra the Best Android Phone Ever?

Samsung’s newest flagship, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, has made waves with its powerful AI capabilities and notable feature set. We put it through its paces, testing its performance, camera prowess, and overall user experience.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: AI-Powered Flagship Excellence

The Galaxy S25 Ultra delivers on its promise of AI-driven innovation. Its advanced camera system captures stunning photos, while its powerful processor ensures smooth multitasking and seamless gaming.

The Sony A1 II: A Birdwatcher’s Dream

For photography enthusiasts, the Sony A1 II shines as a powerful tool, especially for birdwatchers. Its rapid autofocus and extraordinary image quality make capturing fleeting moments in nature a breeze.

Plaud Note AI voice recorder ★★★★

The Plaud Note AI voice recorder emerged as a standout in our testing, offering impressive voice recognition accuracy and user-friendly functionality.

Plaud note Review: A Powerful AI Assistant for the discerning Professional

We explored the Plaud Note’s capabilities in detail,discovering its potential as a powerful tool for professionals who rely on accurate note-taking and efficient task management.

MacBook Air M2 Review: A Powerful Featherweight for creative Tasks

apple’s MacBook Air M2 continues to impress with its sleek design, impressive performance, and long battery life, making it an ideal choice for creative professionals on the go.

Acaia Orion: A $1,050 Coffee Bean Dispenser?

We took a closer look at the Acaia Orion, a coffee bean dispenser that comes with a hefty price tag. Is it worth the investment for serious coffee aficionados?

Fellow Tally Pro Coffee Scale Review: A Splendid Scale with a Hefty Price Tag

The Fellow tally Pro boasts precision and stylish design, but its premium price point begs the question:

is it worth the splurge for home coffee enthusiasts?

Fellow Tally Pro Review: Does It Live Up to the Hype?

We put the Fellow Tally Pro to the test, evaluating its accuracy, ease of use, and overall performance to determine if it lives up to its reputation.

Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross: A Love Song to Sound and Style

The Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross blends iconic Fender design with Teufel’s audio expertise, creating a speaker that’s as stylish as it is powerful.

Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross: A Head-Turner With a Few Hiccups

While the Rockster Cross boasts impressive aesthetics and sound quality,we discovered a few minor drawbacks that might influence your purchasing decision.

What are the Pros and Cons of the Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross Speaker?

We provide a complete analysis of the Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross, outlining its strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross: A Stylish Speaker With Room for Advancement

The Rockster Cross shows promise, but with a few refinements, it could truly reach its full potential.

Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross: A Stylish Speaker With Room for Improvement

Though visually appealing, the Rockster Cross requires some fine-tuning to overcome its shortcomings and become a truly exceptional speaker.

Is the Galaxy S25 Ultra the Best Android Phone ever?

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has been generating a lot of excitement,but not all the reviews have been glowing. Some critics call it boring, saying it’s too similar to the iPhone. After spending a week with this flagship device, I have to say I disagree. I think it might just be the best Android phone I’ve ever used.

In fact, I’m seriously considering switching from my iPhone.

One of the things that impressed me moast about the Galaxy S25 Ultra is its advanced AI capabilities. Imagine being able to effortlessly switch between apps using just your voice. This phone makes it possible.

`

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is making waves with its cutting-edge AI features, powerful performance, and exceptional camera capabilities.This flagship smartphone is truly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile technology, appealing to both tech enthusiasts and everyday users.

Samsung’s AI assistant, Gemini, is a standout feature. It goes beyond typical voice commands, allowing you to ask it to summarize lengthy YouTube videos, saving you valuable time. The addition of “Now Brief,” which provides a concise summary of your day’s events,and “Now Bar” for real-time alerts on your lock screen,adds another layer of convenience and intelligence.

“the AI features on the S25 Ultra are truly impressive. They add a level of convenience and intelligence that I haven’t seen before in a smartphone,” remarks a tech reviewer.

The camera system doesn’t disappoint either. The new 50MP ultrawide lens delivers incredibly sharp images,surpassing even the performance of the S24 Ultra’s camera.In side-by-side comparisons with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the S25 Ultra’s camera system proved superior, capturing more detail and vibrant colors.

Reviewed by Nikita Achanta, a renowned reviews writer, this in-depth evaluation delves into the intricacies of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.

The Sony A1 II: A Birdwatcher’s dream

For those who are passionate about capturing the beauty of wildlife, the world of bird photography often demands a vast arsenal of specialized tools.

` a ⁢top-tier camera, capable of capturing ⁣those fleeting moments‍ with breathtaking detail. And in the ‌realm of mirrorless cameras, the Sony A1 II ⁣emerges as a true champion, exceeding expectations⁤ and setting a new benchmark.

This‌ flagship camera, with its ⁢impressive 50.1MP ⁢sensor, allows me to ⁢freeze birds in mid-flight with remarkable clarity,‍ and its ability to⁤ record stunning 4K and 8K ‌footage further elevates its capabilities. But it’s the⁣ autofocus system that truly sets the ‍A1 II apart. ⁣“Its auto subject-detection mode is capable of tracking practically anything⁤ — breathing⁣ or inanimate objects — and at fast speeds too,” I ⁢declare, ​highlighting the camera’s remarkable intelligence and precision.

Shooting at 30fps burst mode, ‍coupled with⁤ its 8.5-stop in-body ⁣image stabilization, ensures that every shot is crisp and⁤ sharp, even when⁣ capturing fast-moving subjects. Paired with the new FE 28-70mm F2 GM lens, it ‌becomes a sniper’s ​dream for both sports ‌and wildlife photography enthusiasts.

For those, like myself, who braved the unpredictable British weather, the A1 II and its weather-sealed lens offer peace of mind.⁤ despite enduring heavy ​rain, ‌both remained unscathed, allowing me to focus on ‍the ​adventure rather than worrying about potential damage.

“This is by⁤ far the most reliable camera I’ve tested so far,” I confess, my enthusiasm for ⁢the A1 II shining through.As someone who has always been ‍captivated by animals ⁣and birds, ⁢this camera has been an absolute joy to ‍use.The exceptional performance and reliability have earned it a well-deserved 4.5-star rating.”

Plaud Note AI voice recorder ★★★★

Plaud Note is ​a ‍compact, portable AI voice recorder that aims to simplify note-taking and transcription. Harnessing the power of artificial ‌intelligence, this device promises to ⁢elevate your note-taking experience by offering advanced features like automatic⁤ transcription‍ and voice command support.

It’s designed ⁢to‌ be user-friendly, allowing even‍ those unfamiliar with ‍technology to easily capture and organize their thoughts. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply someone who wants to ⁤keep track of their ​ideas, Plaud Note offers a convenient⁣ and efficient way to do just that.

plaud ​Note review: A Powerful AI Assistant for the Discerning Professional

‍ ⁤ I’ll admit, I wasn’t​ expecting much from the Plaud note. As ⁣a journalist, I’ve⁢ spent years perfecting my own methods for recording and transcribing audio. But this small, unassuming device quickly exceeded my expectations.‍⁤ The Plaud Note ‍might not look like much,but it packs a powerful punch. If you’re‌ in a profession that demands efficient and accurate transcriptions—journalism, law, education, you name it—this‍ tool is a game-changer.It‌ effortlessly captures clear audio recordings of interviews, meetings, and even phone calls. The magic ⁢truly happens with its integration of GPT-4o, an advanced AI technology that transcribes and formats your recordings with remarkable precision.You ⁢can tailor the output exactly to ⁤your needs, making it an incredibly versatile tool. “If you’re a journalist, professional or anyone who needs to record and transcribe lots ⁢of audio/text, this is definitely the tool for you,” ‍I found ​myself saying.

However, no tool is perfect. while the Plaud Note excels at what it does,​ there are a couple of caveats.

Its power lies entirely within its companion app, which handles⁤ all the AI processing.This ⁣means the ⁣device is⁣ wholly reliant on the app for its core function.The thought​ of ​the app disappearing​ leaves me with just a basic voice recorder,⁤ which is a concern.

​ Another consideration is the proprietary charging system. Losing the cable would​ be a real headache, so keeping it⁣ safe is crucial.

‍ Despite these minor drawbacks, the Plaud Note ⁣is a fantastic tool for professionals as long as the app remains robust and functional.”right now while the app is going strong,the Plaud note is a⁢ fantastic ⁢tool for professionals,‌and an easy advice from me,” I confidently declare.

MacBook Air M2 Review: A Powerful featherweight for Creative Tasks

(Image credit: Future)

The MacBook Air M2 maintains⁤ the beloved design of its predecessor, but this time around, it’s ⁢powered by​ Apple’s latest and greatest chip, the ​M2.‍ This processor brings ‍a noticeable boost in ‍performance without sacrificing the air’s signature​ thinness ⁣and lightweight build. But⁢ does this upgrade deliver enough‍ to justify the price tag?

Erin Bashford,‌ a tech enthusiast and writer, put the‌ MacBook Air ‌M2 through its paces to see if it delivers on its ⁤promises. ​

“The M2 chip is a⁢ game-changer,” Bashford states, “It handles demanding creative tasks with ease, making workflows smoother and faster. Whether you’re editing photos,videos,or music,‍the Air M2 delivers impressive performance.”

Bashford also⁤ highlighted the Air M2’s impressive battery life.”I‍ was able to easily get through a full ⁣workday⁣ on a single charge, even with⁤ demanding tasks,” ‍she noted.

However, Bashford wasn’t without reservations. “The display, while beautiful, lacks the brightness of some ‍competitors. This might be a drawback for users ⁢who work⁤ in shining environments.

the MacBook Air M2 is a compelling choice for those seeking a powerful and portable ‌laptop for creative⁤ professionals.While it may ​not be perfect, its ⁤ blend of performance, portability, and battery life makes it a strong contender in the premium laptop market.

Acaia Orion: A $1,050 Coffee Bean dispenser?

The Acaia Orion is a curious device. It’s essentially⁤ a high-tech coffee bean doser,meticulously dispensing precise weights of whole beans into⁤ your container. That’s it. No grinding, no brewing, just perfectly measured beans.

The Orion’s design is undeniably ⁣striking. It ⁤looks like it belongs on the ⁣set of⁤ a futuristic film, with its sleek lines and ⁢premium craftsmanship. It’s clear that ⁣Acaia poured a lot of care into its construction.

Fellow Tally Pro Coffee Scale Review: A Precision Instrument at a Premium Price

As a coffee enthusiast who believes in the importance of precision brewing, I was eager to put the Fellow Tally Pro coffee scale to the test. Fellow has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality coffee equipment, particularly their acclaimed Stagg EKG gooseneck kettle. But with a price tag of $185, the Tally Pro sits at the higher end of the spectrum. While other scales, like the Acaia Lunar ($250) and the Acaia Pearl S ($220), command even higher prices, the tally Pro’s value proposition warrants closer examination.

the Acaia Pearl S, as an example, offers additional functionality through its companion app, which might sway some buyers. Though,the Tally Pro,with its elegant design and robust construction,clearly prioritizes simplicity and elegance.

“The Orion looks a treat. I wouldn’t be surprised to see this on the set of the best high-budget sci-fi movie. It’s well-made, too, with phenomenal, stunning craftsmanship. It’s promptly obvious that the Orion has been made with care.”

Whether the Tally Pro fully justifies its price point depends on individual needs and priorities.While professional baristas might find its functionality limited due to the lack of integration with grinders, home baristas who appreciate precision and meticulous brewing will likely find it a valuable addition to their toolkit.

The Tally Pro’s sleek design and user-friendly interface make it a joy to use, and its accurate readings contribute to a consistently satisfying brewing experience. Ultimately, the decision boils down to whether the Tally Pro’s premium features and impeccable craftsmanship justify the cost.

Let me know if you have any other requirements or if you’d like help with keyword research for this article!

Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross: A Love Song to Sound and style

(Image credit: Future Photo studios)

The Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross isn’t your typical portable speaker. It’s a collaboration between guitar royalty Fender and audio experts Teufel, designed to deliver an experience that goes beyond simply amplified sound.This is a speaker that embodies rock ‘n’ roll attitude, cutting-edge technology, and an unbridled passion for music.

The Rockster Cross boasts powerful audio performance, filling any space with rich, dynamic sound. whether you’re blasting your favorite anthems or enjoying some laid-back tunes, this speaker delivers an immersive listening experience that feels like your own personal concert.

“From the moment you open the box, you know this is a special product,” Peter Wolinski remarked, highlighting the speaker’s sleek, retro-inspired design. The Rockster Cross seamlessly blends Fender’s iconic aesthetic with Teufel’s engineering prowess, creating a visual masterpiece that pays homage to musical legends while embracing modern technology.

But the rockster Cross is more than just a pretty face. It’s packed with features designed to enhance your listening experience. With its long battery life and rugged build, it’s the perfect companion for any musical adventure.

Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross: A stylish Speaker With Room for Improvement

The Fender x teufel Rockster Cross is a speaker that doesn’t shy away from making a statement. Its amp-stack inspired design is a far cry from the more rounded, playful look of its sibling, the Fender x Teufel Rockster Go 2. While both speakers exude style, the Rockster Cross leans into a bolder, edgier aesthetic, reminiscent of a rock concert, rather than the vintage vibes of the Go 2.

Everywhere I took the Rockster Cross, heads turned. Its eye-catching design sparked conversations and compliments. Regrettably, it’s currently unavailable in Britain, leaving music lovers across the pond to admire it from afar.

Scoring 3.5 out of 5 stars, the Rockster Cross delivers solid performance. Its 5-inch subwoofer packs a punch,filling a room with powerful bass. Built tough, it feels capable of handling anything you throw at it, and even doubles as a power bank for charging other devices. However, this bass-heavy sound signature comes at a price. While the lows rumble satisfyingly, the mids and highs often sound muted, particularly on complex tracks. There’s no dedicated app or equalizer to fine-tune the sound,and Teufel’s suggestion to simply “rock the speaker backwards” for better mids and highs feels like a somewhat unsatisfactory workaround.

despite its strengths, the Rockster Cross faces stiff competition. Rivals like the JBL Xtreme 4 offer comparable bass, superior waterproofing, longer battery life, and the crucial advantage of a customizable equalizer, all at a similar price point.

The Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross is a stylish speaker with promising features, but its limited sound customization and lack of overall balance make it a tough advice. While its looks are undeniably cool, audiophiles seeking a balanced listening experience might want to explore other options.

What are the pros and cons of the Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross speaker?

Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross: Style Meets Sound, But Does It Deliver?

The Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross speaker promises a rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic and powerful sound, but does it live up to the hype? Tech reviewer Tom Merritt dives deep, exploring the speaker’s strengths and weaknesses alongside gadget guru Emily Carter.

“The Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross is a really engaging speaker—a love note to rock ‘n’ roll in both style and sound. But does it really deliver the goods?” Merritt asks, setting the stage for a critical evaluation.

Carter immediately acknowledges the speaker’s undeniable visual appeal. “Oh, it’s definitely a looker, Tom! That amp-stack inspired design is totally eye-catching. It feels like a statement piece you’d want to proudly display.”

Merritt agrees, praising the speaker’s powerful bass. “Absolutely! And that beefy bass is definitely there. It’s a real thump. But how does it handle more nuanced music?”

Carter reveals a potential drawback.”That’s where it starts to fall a bit short. The bass is notable, but the mids and highs get a little lost in the mix, especially on more complex tracks. It lacks that clarity and detail you get from some other speakers in its price range.”

Merritt,emphasizing the importance of customization,inquires,”That’s a shame. Customization options are key for me. Can you adjust the sound at all?”

Carter delivers a disappointing answer. “That’s the kicker—there’s no dedicated app or equalizer. Teufel suggests just tilting the speaker back for better mids and highs, but that’s not exactly a satisfying solution.”

Ultimately, Carter advises potential buyers, “It’s a cool-looking speaker with powerful bass, but it’s not the most balanced or versatile. If you need a blunt instrument for booming bass and don’t mind a slightly muffled sound for everything else, it might work. But if you want more sonic nuance, you might want to explore some alternatives.”

Watch the video below for a deeper dive into the Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross, exploring its design, sound, and overall performance.

Fender x Teufel Rockster cross: Style Meets Sound, But Does It Deliver?

The Fender x Teufel Rockster Cross speaker promises a rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic and powerful sound, but does it live up to the hype? Tech reviewer Tom Merritt dives deep, exploring the speaker’s strengths and weaknesses alongside gadget guru Emily Carter.

“The fender x Teufel Rockster Cross is a really engaging speaker—a love note to rock ‘n’ roll in both style and sound. But does it really deliver the goods?” Merritt asks, setting the stage for a critical evaluation.

Carter instantly acknowledges the speaker’s undeniable visual appeal. “Oh, it’s definitely a looker, Tom! That amp-stack inspired design is totally eye-catching. It feels like a statement piece you’d want to proudly display.”

Merritt agrees, praising the speaker’s powerful bass. “Absolutely! And that beefy bass is definitely there. It’s a real thump. But how does it handle more nuanced music?”

Carter reveals a potential drawback.”That’s where it starts to fall a bit short. The bass is notable, but the mids and highs get a little lost in the mix, especially on more complex tracks. It lacks that clarity and detail you get from some other speakers in its price range.”

Merritt,emphasizing the importance of customization,inquires,”That’s a shame. Customization options are key for me. Can you adjust the sound at all?”

Carter delivers a disappointing answer.”That’s the kicker—there’s no dedicated app or equalizer. Teufel suggests just tilting the speaker back for better mids and highs, but that’s not exactly a satisfying solution.”

Ultimately, Carter advises potential buyers, “It’s a cool-looking speaker with powerful bass, but it’s not the most balanced or versatile. If you need a blunt instrument for booming bass and don’t mind a slightly muffled sound for everything else, it might work.But if you want more sonic nuance, you might want to explore some alternatives.”