Researchers from the cybersecurity firm SentinelOne have discovered a trojanized code library that is being used in the wild to try and install surveillance malware on to the Macs of developers creating apps for iOS.
As reported by Ars Technica, the campaign exploits Apple's Xcode developer tool for iOS and macOS and the attacker responsible created a malicious project using the tool in order to spread malware. However, the project itself was a copy of a legitimate open source project called TabBarInteraction that helps developers animate tab bars in iOS.
We've built a list of the best antivirus software available
The fake version of TabBarInteraction also included an obfuscated script called a “Run Script” which is executed whenever a developer build is launched. This script contacts a server controlled by the attacker to download and install a custom version of the open source backdoor EggShell which is used to spy on users through their microphone, camera and keyboard.
XcodeSpy
The researchers at SentinelLabs have given the trojanized project the name XcodeSpy as it exploits Apple's Xcode to make it possible for an attacker to spy on other Mac users.
Two variants of the customized EggShell backdoor dropped by the trojanized project have been discovered so far and both were uploaded to VirusTotal for further investigation. The first sample was uploaded in August of last year while the second one was uploaded in October.
In a new blog post detailing the firm's discovery, threat researcher at SentinelOne, Phil Stokes explained that there could be other XcodeSpy projects out there, saying:
“We have thus far been unable to discover other samples of trojanized Xcode projects and cannot gauge the extent of this activity. However, the timeline from known samples and other indicators mentioned below suggest that other XcodeSpy projects may exist. By sharing details of this campaign, we hope to raise awareness of this attack vector and highlight the fact that developers are high-value targets for attackers.”
To avoid falling victim to XcodeSpy, developers should exercise caution when downloading and installing new open source projects.
The encrypted phone service Sky Global has shut down its operations after BlackBerry cut off the firm's access to its United Endpoint Manager services.
The shut down comes after Sky Global's CEO Jean-Francois EAP was recently indicted by the Department of Justice alongside a former distributor of encrypted smartphones for selling devices to international drug traffickers to help them avoid being detected by law enforcement.
In a statement announcing the indictment, Assistant US Attorneys Meghan E. Heesch and Joshua C. Mellor provided further insight on Sky Global's business model, saying:
“Sky Global’s devices are specifically designed to prevent law enforcement from actively monitoring the communications between members of transnational criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking and money laundering. As part of its services, Sky Global guarantees that messages stored on its devices can and will be remotely deleted by the company if the device is seized by law enforcement or otherwise compromised.”
Sky Global investigation
Just like with the subscription-based phone system EncroChat that was shut down last year, Sky Global provided criminals with modified Nokia, Google, Apple and BlackBerry smartphones that had their cameras, microphones and GPS capabilities removed to make them harder to track.
Once a criminal purchased one of the company's modified devices, they would then sign up for its end-to-end encrypted messaging software Sky ECC that came preinstalled on its smartphones.
As first reported by MotherBoard, Sky Global's website has been seized by US and Canadian authorities and it now displays an official government banner complete with the logos of the FBI, DEA, US Marshals Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
However, before Sky Global's operations and site were shut down, a final message went out to the company's customers warning them that their communications could soon be intercepted by law enforcement.
While Sky Global is no more, another encrypted phone service will likely rise up in its place due to how profitable supplying criminals with untraceable phones can be.
Earlier this year, Dell unveiled a number of new business laptops in its Latitude line that are designed to enable employees to work from anywhere securely. Privacy was a big focus of the PC giant's design process and its new Latitude 9420 and 9520 laptops are its first devices to include its SafeShutter feature.
SafeShutter is the industry's first automatic webcam shutter and it knows when to automatically open or close by syncing with a user's video conferencing software.
Designing SafeShutter
In a new blog post, VP of Dell Latitude and Mobility Products at Dell Technologies, Meghana Patwardhan provided further insight into what went into designing the company's new SafeShutter feature.
While SafeShutter connects to your video conferencing software, the feature gives users total control over their privacy by allowing them to disable their webcam (F9) or mute their microphone (F4) by using the devices function keys. Although the feature works automatically, these keys provide extra assurance at the hardware level and offer additional security.
However, the process of designing SafeShutter was a bit complicated for Dell's engineers as its Latitude laptops have small bezels with no room to put a mechanical camera shutter. For this reason, they designed a new security-hardened, hardware-controlled circuit tied to the F4 and F9 keys. These keys work regardless of which video conferencing software you're using so that you don't have to fumble around in menus when using a program you're not familiar with.
A Dell engineer also accidentally created an audible “click” that lets users know when the camera is closed. At the same time though, the company created a privacy LED light that turns on when the camera is in use and this light is also paired with the keyboard indicator lights to let you know if your camera and mic are on or off.
The Latitude 9420 will be available in the spring starting at $1,949 (£1,434) while pricing for the Latitude 9520 has not yet been announced.
We've also rounded up all the gear you'll need to work from home successfully
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While Cherry MX mechanical keyboard switches have long been a staple in the PC gaming world, the company's revered tech had so far never made it to market in a laptop.
Now, in partnership with Alienware, the German company has finally revealed the world's first Cherry MX-equipped gaming laptops, with the Alienware m15 R4 and m17 R4 both gaining the option to add the brand's new MX Ultra Low Profile switches.
One of the main challenges in designing a suitable switch was to reproduce the technology in a much shallower package in order to accomodate for the relatively thin form factor of a laptop.
As can be seen above, Alienware and Cherry MX's partnership produced a more compact design that shaves an impressive 15mm off the MX Original's depth.
The design features 1.8mm of key travel, is rated for 15 million keystrokes, includes a self-cleaning mechanism and promises "absolute precision and wobble-free keystrokes".
Naturally, the keys will also offer a considerable lightshow as well, with AlienFX's per-key RGB backlighting that offers up to 16.8 million customizable colors.
The Cherry MX version of the Alienware m15 R4 and m17 R4 will be available from March 19 and March 30 respectively, costing $150 more than their regular counterparts (about £110, AU$200) with other regions' pricing to be announced.
Looking for the best full-frame mirrorless camera you can buy right now? What was once a simple task now requires some consideration, because there are many models in what was once a pretty niche market.
Full-frame cameras are renowned for their large sensors, and the superior image quality – particularly for those shot at high ISOs – that usually results. Traditionally, full-frame sensors were found only in the heftier shells of DSLR cameras, until Sony launched the first mirrorless full-frame model, the Alpha A7, back in 2013.
Only in 2018 did the big players decide to enter the fray, as Canon, Nikon and Panasonic all announced mirrorless cameras with full-frame sensors. Now buyers are spoilt for choice when it comes to both bodies and lenses. Which is good news, because mirrorless full-frame cameras combine the fabled quality of those larger sensors with the advanced shooting features associated with modern mirrorless cameras.
So, which full-framer is the best? At the moment, we reckon the Sony Alpha A7 III (the successor to the model that started it all) is the best full-frame mirrorless camera you can buy. Despite being part of the so-called 'basic range', it's anything but basic, offering features to rival most competitors. And it’s relatively affordable, too.
Then again, with such a growing crop of capable cameras to choose from, there’s every chance you’ll find something more suitable for your shooting preferences in the list below. The Canon EOS RP, for example, is a great all-rounder at a sensible price, while the Canon EOS R5 is a trailblazing, if pricey, all-rounder that's changing the game again.
Still, right now, here are the best full-frame mirrorless cameras you can buy.
Best full-frame mirrorless cameras 2021 at a glance:
Sony A7 III
Canon EOS R5
Nikon Z6 II
Sony A7S III
Sony A7R IV
Panasonic Lumix S5
Canon EOS RP
Panasonic Lumix S1
Canon EOS R6
Nikon Z5
Best full-frame mirrorless cameras in 2021:
1. Sony Alpha A7 III
Sony's third-gen all-rounder is a gem of a mirrorless camera
Although it may not be the newest camera on this list – far from it – the Sony A7 III remains very much the "Goldilocks" option right now. It offers just the right balance of features and performance at a good value price point. You can expect masses of detail from the 24MP sensor, while low-light performance is also great. The more modest resolution also pays dividends in producing smaller, less data-hungry files, too. Other specifications worth your attention are five-axis image stabilization, and high-quality video recording. You can pick up the Sony A7 III at a fantastic price - it's dropped significantly since its launch, especially with more competition now in the marketplace. Finally, the exhaustive array of Sony lenses available for the E mount should mean that you never struggle to find the right glass for your favorite subjects. We love it.
High-res sensor and 8K video – what's not to like?
Sensor size: Full-frame CMOS | Resolution: 45MP | Autofocus: 5,940 Dual Pixel CMOS AF II | Burst speed: Up to 20fps | Screen type: 3.15-inch fully articulating touchscreen, 2,100k dots | Video: 8K/30p | User level: Enthusiast/expert
Best-in-class AF
Excellent IBIS
Video recording limitations
CFexpress cards are expensive
Canon created headlines with its first ever consumer-facing 8K full-framer, but that feature quickly became controversial due to the recording limitations. However, for a pro-level stills camera with some top-class video perks, the EOS R5 is a winner. With a 45MP sensor under the hood of this flagship, you're going to get impeccable image quality, and its class-leading autofocus – with a whopping 5,940 AF points – is one of the best in the business. It will also capture images at a blistering 20fps with its electronic shutter, with full AF/AE in play. So whether it's sports, wildlife, landscape or studio work, you can't go wrong with this snapper. There's also a high-resolution EVF to match, an intuitive control panel on the body and an easy-to-understand menu system that Canon is known for. And match it with any of Canon's new RF lenses and that's one of the best combinations a photographer might need – albeit a pricey one.
The original Nikon Z6 was our top pick for the best full-frame mirrorless camera ever since its launch in 2018. And while it's tempting to keep the second-gen model in top spot as well, it's only a minor upgrade. The Z6 II is physically identical to the older body, but the little changes made on the inside make the Z6 II a better camera. To start off with, there's now a pair of Expeed engines under the hood, giving the Z6 II a performance boost by bumping up burst rate to 14fps (from 12fps) and providing enough processing power for eye-AF for both humans and animals. In addition to the existing XQD/CFexpress card slot, you also get a SD UHS-II slot as well, and a firmware update has brought 4K/60p video recording capabilities to the camera. It's only because its AF capabilities aren't as competitive as that from Canon and Sony that we've dropped the Z6 II a little lower in our list, but it's still a solid performer and an excellent alternative to rivals like the Canon EOS R6.
We had to wait five years between the A7S II and the A7S III but, as they say, good things come to those who wait. The third-gen video-centric full-framer from Sony is arguably the best option for enthusiast and professional video makers. It may not be able to match the EOS R5's 8K video or even the Lumix S1H's 6K prowess, but it's currently the only camera that can record 4K footage internally at 60fps with no crop, and with no limitations on recording time. Video specs aside, the A7S III is also the discerning photographer's camera too, despite its meagre 12MP stills. It is a pure hybrid, although there is the little matter of paying more for less resolution. But when you consider the benefits of the bigger pixels in terms of the dynamic range, the signal-to-noise ratio and the high ISO performance, the A7S III is unmatched in its low-light flexibility and performance. And with 10fps bursts, not only will it handle street photography marvellously well, it will manage just fine in the sports arena too.
The R in the name of this range of Sony cameras stands for "resolution", and you won't find anything higher than this in the full-frame category. Indeed, at 61 megapixels, it's pretty much medium format territory. All those juicy pixels give you a chance to realize the full optical excellence of Sony's premium G master lenses. This is the fourth iteration of the A7R, and the A7R IV builds on the foundations set out by the very popular A7R, A7R II and A7R III. There's crisp and impressive 4K video, effective five-axis image stabilization and a beautiful 5.76 million-dot viewfinder (the best on the market). Couple all of that with 10fps burst shooting, a hybrid AF system boasting a blistering 567-points, dual card slots, Eye AF and masses more and there's not much to dislike about this model. Battery life has even been improved when compared with the previous model, now offering 530 shots per charge (that's the CIPA rating, so no doubt you'll get even more from it). While we can't help but fall in love with the 61 megapixel files, you're definitely going to need some hefty storage options if you invest in this camera - while if you're computer is on the slow or old side, it may struggle to cope with processing the files. If you're keen to get the detail, but don't have the capacity, budget or supporting tech, it's worth checking out A7R IV's predecessor, which is still on sale.
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Resolution: 24.4MP | Autofocus: 225-point DFD contrast AF | Screen type: 3-inch vari-angle, 1,840k dots | Burst speed: 7fps | Video: 4K UHD up to 60/50p | User level: Enthusiast/expert
Excellent for video
Dual SD card slots
Mini HDMI port
Only contrast AF
Panasonic's latest addition to its full-frame mirrorless range is smaller and more compact than the previous bodies, and yet brings plenty of the Lumix S1H's superb video prowess to the mainstream consumer market. But it's not just its video specs that make this a standout option – it's an extremely capable stills camera as well. It uses the same 24MP sensor as in the S1, but with improved autofocus performance. Alongside the great AF system, its color reproduction is beautiful and it handles noise really well too. There's 5 stops of image stabilization on board, a 96MP high-res multi-shot mode, and dual card slots for all the movies you want to capture. It's small size makes it a traveling content creator's dream, with support for anamorphic lenses as well. It's easy to use and the L-Mount Alliance means there are plenty of lens options to choose from. There's just so much going for the Lumix S5 that's hard not to list it here.
An alternative to the EOS R that arrived right at the start of Canon's latest mirrorless line, the EOS RP is simply a much better option for many more people right now. While not quite as powerful in some areas, it's smaller, lighter and a heck of a lot cheaper, and it's blessed with very good autofocus, a generous buffer and a great touchscreen that flips out all the way to face the front. It wouldn't be our first choice for video, and the current native lens selection is still somewhat limited (but growing all the time) and the best RF glass won't work as well with this camera, but you can use masses of EF lenses through an adapter. So it's a no-brainer for existing Canon users looking to make the switch to mirrorless without dropping a fortune in order to do so.
Kicking things off for Panasonic's S series, along with the S1R, the S1 is the more affordable option, but still packs some seriously impressive tech. There's the 24MP full-frame sensor that performs brilliantly when shooting stills and 4K video, together with a sensor-based image stabilization system that does exactly what it should, and does it well. Operation is swift, build quality is excellent, and it's no exaggeration to say that the viewfinder is stunning – it's definitely the best right now (the same unit is inside the S1R). It's just a little too big and heavy, and somewhat awkward to operate at times, while the autofocusing system is a touch behind the competition. But this is still a model that delivers far more to get excited about than many others manage to.
A relatively affordable all-rounder with some high-end features
Sensor size: Full-frame CMOS | Resolution: 20.1MP | Autofocus: 6,072-point AF | Screen type: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 1,620K dots | Burst speed: Up to 20fps | Movies: 4K/60p | User level: Enthusiast/expert
Best-in-class autofocus
Class-leading IBIS
Video recording limitations
20MP may not be enough for some
If you think the Canon EOS R5 (listed higher up on this list) is overkill, then the EOS R6 is a compelling alternative, considering you get almost all the class-leading features from the flagship model, with the exception of 8K video. It brings over the excellent AF performance from the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III sports DSLR (and the R5), with a staggering number of usable AF points, alongside one of the best image stabilization systems on the market. As a video camera, it's capable of shooting 4K/60p footage, but it does suffer from overheating – just like the R5 – so there are limits to the video clip lengths. But it's one of the best stills full-framers available today, although it might be a touch too pricey for some.
It's been labeled an entry-level camera but the Nikon Z5 offers a little more than just the basics. To start with, it comes with the same high-resolution EVF that's used in the Z6 and Z7 flagships, and also inherits the Z6's excellent 273-point hybrid AF system. What let's the Z5 down are specs that might not bother many entry-level users (the camera's target audience) – its 4.5fps burst speed is a little underwhelming, while a crop is applied to 4K video recording. So while this may not suit anyone keen on sports photography or vlogging, it's arguably the best beginner full-frame mirrorless camera for stills currently on the market. And, if you can pick it up during a sale, it'll cost you as much as Canon's EOS RP.
Leica pushes its SL full-frame mirrorless system even more into the mainstream
Sensor size: Full-frame BSI CMOS | Resolution: 24.6MP | Autofocus: 225-point wide-area contrast detection | Screen type: 3.2-inch fixed, 2,100K dots | Burst speed: Up to 25fps (e-shutter) | Video: Oversampled 4K/30p video (up to 10-bit 4:2:2) | User level: Expert
Beautifully designed, solid body
Competitive video specs
Good price (for a Leica)
Still expensive
Unreliable AF
Can feel heavy
This is the first time Leica has targeted videographers, packing the SL2-S with some excellent video specs, but its fixed screen can be a deterrent. Moreover, there's plenty of competition among the capable 24MP full-framers (some which are listed above), but none of them can match the SL2-S for the precision and quality of its build, which makes it a unique handling experience. It's got pared back controls, a feature set devoid of any frills and a no-nonsense interface, but you're never going to miss any of it with this camera. It's nowhere near as uncompromising as a digital M camera, but it's still unmistakably a Leica on many levels. The German brand has never melded tradition and technology quite so seamlessly and effectively, making the SL2-S a joy to use and hold. And given its relatively low price tag, it's hard to ignore the SL2-S here.
What to look for in a full-frame mirrorless camera:
Many of these systems are still getting established, so what should you look for? There's obviously the sensor at the heart of the camera, but it's also worth looking at the current lens options available, and what lenses manufacturers have said are in development.
While Sony has been producing full-frame mirrorless options for quite a while now, others in this list are a lot newer to the game. That means that the lens and accessory line-up can be a little more limited - it's worth looking at what's currently available, at well as what is promised for the future.
There's not a lot of point in buying a great camera if the lenses you'd like to use don't exist or are out of your price range. You might also be able to use existing lenses from anything you're currently using, via an adapter, so it's always worth checking out the adapter situation too.
If you capture bursts of images frequently, make sure to check not only the burst rate but also the burst depth – the first spec tells you how many images you can shoot per second, while the second tells you how long you can keep shooting for in terms of the number of frames. Continuous focus may decrease these figures, so look out for that in the spec sheet too.
If you're somebody who shoots burst of images frequently - for example sports and action photographers - make sure you not only check the burst rate, but also the burst depth. The latter specification will indicate how long can you keep shooting for, and is also very important to consider. Continuous focus may decreases these figures, so keep an eye on that in the spec shoot, too.
For video-lovers, you may find that you'll be better served by a camera with a lower-resolution sensor rather than a very high pixel count one. Make sure to also check the shooting options you have in terms of video frame rates, as well as ports for microphones and headphones. If you do a lot of video shooting, you might want to check out our best 4K camera guide for more video-focused suggestions.
The design and resolution of electronic viewfinders (EVFs) and LCD screens vary considerably across these models. Some EVFs are large and detailed, others less so. The LCD screens also sometimes tilt, sometimes swivel and occasionally do neither, although almost all now are touch-sensitive – great for things like setting the focusing point.
If you’re looking for a cheap laptop or a deeply discounted premium machine, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve scoured the web for savings and rounded up all the genuine deals in one neat place.
You’ll find we’ve covered everything from budget browsing machines to high-performance powerhouses, so you’ll no doubt find something here to match your needs.
We’ve highlighted a selection of the latest deals that we’ve sniffed out, and if you scroll further down, we've rounded up some of our favourite laptops in a dedicated buying guide.
A number of laptop sales this week are available through eBay’s Afterpay sale. We’ve hand-picked our best choices below, but if you can’t find what you’re after, check out Microsoft and Razer on eBay – both now have 20% off their entire stores.
The XPS 13 is a finely crafted machine, and this configuration is now on clearance at Dell’s official eBay store. Better yet, you can knock an additional 20% off the machine by using the code PAPDY20 and checking out with Afterpay. This model features a 10th-gen Intel Core i5 CPU, so performance is excellent, all packaged into a slim and light form factor.
It’s not too often we see MacBooks discounted, particularly the latest models. But that’s exactly what’s available, and the MacBook Air (M1, 2020) just so happens to be our favourite laptop in Australia. Under the hood is Apple’s own M1 processor, which has greatly improved both performance and battery life for the laptop. Head to Wireless 1’s eBay store, use the code PAPDY20 and checkout with Afterpay to snagAU$300 off multiple configs.
As with the MacBook Air above, the MacBook Pro (M1, 2020) has also had a major update to its internals. The M1 chip delivers exceptional battery life and excellent performance, which exceeds the Intel CPUs that previously ran Apple’s MacBooks. Multiple colours and configurations are discounted by AU$300 on Wireless 1’s eBay store, just checkout with Afterpay and use the code PAPDY20.
The Dell XPS 13 is a beautiful piece of kit, and we’d go so far as to say it’s one of the best laptops you can buy. This 2020 model matches Intel’s 11th-gen i7 processor with 16GB of RAM for excellent performance. And despite that power boost, plus an all-encompassing display, battery life is still great on this laptop. There’s now a huge AU$563 to be saved, just enter the codes SW20 and HONEY7 at checkout.
The Surface Laptop Go is a budget laptop that doesn’t cut corners, and it doesn’t make the same compromises as similarly-priced devices. It looks and feels premium, with a lovely display and very comfortable keyboard. Microsoft has discounted all models, which you can configure with a 10th-gen Intel Core i5 chip and solid-state storage up to 256GB. Save 15% on this device from Microsoft.
2-in-1s
Asus VivoBook Flip 14| Ryzen 3 / 8GB RAM / 256GB SSD | AU$780 (RRP AU$975, save AU$195)
At this incredibly cheap price, we think the Asus VivoBook Flip would be an excellent choice for students, or those looking for an affordable work machine. It’s outfitted with an AMD Ryzen 3 4300U CPU and a decent 256GB SSD. This 2-in-1 laptop is lightweight and portable, so it’s easy to get around with. This configuration is down to just AU$780 from Wireless 1’s eBay store, just checkout with Afterpay and enter the code PAPDY20.
Microsoft has taken 20% off its range of the Surface Pro 7. You’ll have the choice of configuring the tablet with either a 10th-gen Intel Core i3, i5 or i7 chip, as well as various RAM and SSD options. Note that the Type Cover and Surface Pen are sold separately, though discounted bundles are also available.
The price of this Dell Inspiron has been slashed by 45%. It’s packing the latest Intel 11th-gen i5 processor and a spacious 512GB SSD. The Dell Active Pen is included in the price, so you can get full use out of this versatile machine. Be sure to enter the code SW45 at checkout to get the full discount.
Gaming laptops don’t come cheap, but this stellar Razer Blade 15 has just had a whopping AU$1,900 knocked off the RRP. Under the hood, you’ll find a 10th-gen Intel Core i7 CPU with a gritty Nvidia RTX 2070 Super to take care of all your gaming needs. The build is all black and offset with some lovely RGB. Head over to Microsoft to snag this killer deal.
HP Omen 15| i7 / 16GB RAM / 512GB SSD / RTX 2080 | AU$2,999 (RRP AU$3,799, save AU$800)
This HP Omen 15 is outfitted with a 9th-gen Core i7 processor, while an RTX 2080 handles the graphics. There’s also 16GB of RAM in its arsenal, plus a 512GB SSD. The laptop is encased inside a slick all-metal chassis with a decent 15-inch Full HD LED display. There’s AU$800 to be saved on this Omen when you buy from Microsoft.
MSI GS66 Stealth| i9 / 16GB RAM / 512GB SSD / RTX 2070 Super | AU$2,999 (RRP AU$5,599, save AU$2,600)
If you want to go all out on a portable gaming machine, this MSI GS66 Stealth is a powerhouse. There’s top-notch components throughout, including a 10th-gen Intel Core i9 processor and an RTX 2070 Super GPU. It’s built slim and sleek, and its display has a 300Hz refresh rate to really make the most of those excellent internals. You can score an insane AU$2,600 off this beast when you buy from Microsoft.
Find great bargains and compare Australian prices on the latest tech atGetprice
The best deals on our favourite laptops
Over the years we've reviewed plenty of laptops, and as a result, we've seen what to avoid and what to jump on when there's savings to be had. We'll keep track of the prices of some of the best we've seen so that you can snatch up a bargain when they do show up. Check out the prices below and see if anything has dropped enough to spark your interest.
(Image credit: Future)
Our favourite overall laptop: Dell XPS 13 (2020)
Dell's latest Ultrabook is simply the best laptop in the world
Saying that we’re very happy with Dell’s XPS 13 is a huge understatement. At first glance, its slim profile and small frame don’t give away the powerful performance and gorgeous 13-inch display inside. Typically, you’d have to weigh up portability and performance, but the XPS 13 has managed to strike a fine balance between the two. Sporting Intel’s latest 10th-generation chips, much-improved battery life and barely-there bezels, the starting price of the newest iteration of the XPS 13 is a tempting proposition. We’re so chuffed with it that it’s still our favourite Ultrabook, and has taken the top spot as the best laptop overall.
It’s true, the Aero 15 range from Gigabyte is aimed at creatives. However, it’s also an attractive option for gamers – with powerful internals, a brilliant display and a sleek chassis – so we think it’s one of the best-value gaming machines Australians can get their hands on. The 2019 model boasts a 15-inch 4K HDR screen, which is ideal whether you’re looking to buy for high-resolution on-the-go gaming or its intended creative use. Under the hood it’s also got the option of the latest Nvidia RTX series GPUs and 9th-gen Intel Core CPUs.
A 2-in-1 laptop experience with little to no compromise
CPU: 8th-generation Intel Core i7-8550U | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 620 | RAM: 16GB | Screen: 13.9” UHD (3,840 x 2,160) IPS Glossy Multi-touch with Dolby Vision | Storage: 1 TB PCIe SSD | Connectivity: 802.11 AC (2 x 2) + Bluetooth 4.1 | Camera: 720p HD Camera
Strong build quality
Robust feature set
Excellent battery life
Weak graphics performance
This premium portable 2-in-1 has a lot to love: a strong build, excellent battery life and a robust feature set. It has a 360° hinge, so can easily be converted from a conventional clamshell to a handheld tablet. There’s also the addition of Dolby Atmos speakers, cleverly built into the rotating hinge, so you’ll have superb sound whichever way you use it. The screen too is vibrant, though the graphics performance could leave some wanting. Still, with an 8th-generation chip, it’s a solid all-rounder for the 2-in-1 crowd.
If you’re looking for a student laptop, chances are you’re shopping on a budget. If that’s the case, our go-to bang-for-buck pick is the Acer Aspire 3 15-inch laptop. It’s a Chromebook, which means it runs on Google’s Chrome OS and is ideal for those with a reliable internet connection who want a laptop to browse the web and complete coursework online. The battery life isn’t the best, but if you don’t mind keeping your charging cable with you during the day, it certainly offers excellent value for money.
(Image credit: Future)
Our favourite Apple laptop: Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019)
The best MacBook Pro ever
CPU: 9th-generation Intel Core i7 – i9 | Graphics: AMD Radeon Pro 5300M – Radeon Pro 5500M | RAM: 16GB – 64GB | Screen: 16-inch Retina display with True Tone | Storage: 512GB – 8TB SSD
Stunning 16-inch screen
New and improved keyboard
Expensive
Limited to four Thunderbolt 3 ports
If you’re firmly placed in the Apple ecosystem, or you’re a Windows user thinking about converting, then we think the 2019 version of the MacBook Pro is the best Mac you can buy. It has a generous 16-inch display, and while that may spell a bulky laptop for other brands on the market, Apple remains true to form with this svelte machine. It’s got the latest and greatest components under the hood, rounded out with high-quality speakers and a much better keyboard than older models.
Motorola and Verizon Wireless are rolling out the Android 11 update for Motorola Edge+. It also receives the February 2021 Android security patch. The update has only rolled out in the US while other regions might receive the update soon.
