Tech Update: OnePlus 8 Series, iPhone SE, and New Studio

The New Normal: Studio Life and Content Creation

In this episode, the hosts discuss the challenges and adaptations of recording a podcast during quarantine.

• Studio Updates: Marques provides an update on moving into his new studio space, detailing the ongoing process of optimizing both lighting and acoustic quality to create a professional environment.
• Content and Lifestyle: The hosts share tips for staying sane, including home cooking experiments, the benefits of buying high-quality cuts of meat at grocery stores while restaurants are closed, and walking for exercise.

The OnePlus 8 Series Breakdown

The conversation shifts to a deep dive into the OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro announcements:

• OnePlus 8 Pro: Positioned as a direct flagship competitor, it features a 120Hz AMOLED display, IP68 water resistance, and the addition of wireless charging, leading to a higher price point of $899.
• Flagship Transition: The hosts explore the trade-offs regarding price versus features and discuss the company's shift from being known primarily for "flagship killers" to a more premium market player.
• Wireless Charging: A major focal point is finally including wireless charging, though it requires a proprietary 30W stand to achieve full speeds.

Apple's iPhone SE and Market Impact

Apple's surprise release of a new, budget-friendly iPhone caused significant discussion:

• Value Proposition: At $399, the iPhone SE (2020) offers the A13 Bionic processor in a familiar form factor, acting as a direct challenge to the budget smartphone market.
• Market Positioning: The hosts debate whether the device is best categorized as a "budget phone" or a "compact phone."

"$399 for a new iPhone. That, that, my friends, is an impressive deal. I'm not going to lie."

Miscellaneous Tech

The episode touches on the latest "extra" product releases from Apple, including the controversial $700 Mac Pro wheels and the upcoming Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro, reflecting on the evolving niche of productivity-focused tablet accessories.