2021 Predictions: Smartphones, CES, and Tech Trends

The Electric Era: Cannonball Records

In this episode, the hosts analyze the recent news regarding a Porsche Taycan setting a new electric Cannonball Run record. This feat is particularly significant because:

• It demonstrated that EV infrastructure, specifically Electrify America, is maturing rapidly.
• The driver utilized sophisticated charging strategies, keeping the battery charge primarily below 60% to maximize performance.
• It highlights the growing competition between Tesla Superchargers and third-party networks in long-distance travel.

2021 Smartphone Rumors and Strategy

The OnePlus Dilemma

The conversation shifts to OnePlus and how their product strategy is evolving as they attempt to break further into the US market. Key points include:

• The "enthusiast" brand identity is shifting toward a broader market stratification strategy, similar to Samsung, with multiple price tiers.
• There is widespread speculation about the upcoming OnePlus 9 series, focusing on a cleaner design and potentially smaller camera bumps.

The Samsung Galaxy S21 & S Pen

"I think Samsung is getting a step closer in that name recognition when it comes to like the average citizen who's not a tech nerd."

Samsung is expected to drop the charger from the box, following Apple's move. Furthermore, the potential inclusion of S Pen support for the S21 Ultra has triggered debates about the future of the Note series and whether the brand is moving away from dedicated hardware silos toward optional accessories.

Predicting the 2021 Smartphone Awards

The hosts conduct a lighthearted exercise to predict the end-of-year smartphone awards. While acknowledging the inherent difficulty in forecasting tech a year in advance, they discuss strong candidates across categories:

• Best Camera: Remains firmly in the iPhone camp due to ecosystem and video superiority.
• Best Compact Phone: Speculation surrounds the potential iPhone 13 mini and improvements to the Z Flip.
• Most Improved & MVP: There is cautious optimism that a Pixel 6 resurgence—focusing on flagship specs at a reasonable price—could be the sleeper hit of the year.