Gizmodo’s Latest Tech Reviews: What You Need to Know

So, you want to know what’s up with Gizmodo’s latest tech reviews? Well, you’re in the right place. We’re going to break down some of their recent articles, covering everything from new phones to cool gadgets and even what they think about the future of tech. It’s all here, so let’s get into it.

Key Takeaways

• Gizmodo checked out some new phones, like the Google Pixel 9a and the Nothing Phone (3a), looking at if they’re good deals.
• They also reviewed some gadgets, like the Backbone Pro controller, and talked about the best new tech stuff.
• Gizmodo shared how-to guides, like finding Wi-Fi passwords and using Google Lens.
• They gave their thoughts on future tech, including what Elon Musk thinks about Mars.
• The site also looked at gaming gear and shared their ideas on AI.

Latest Smartphone Reviews From Gizmodo

Gizmodo has been busy checking out the newest smartphones, giving us the lowdown on what’s worth your money and what might be better to skip. They’ve looked at a couple of interesting options lately, especially for folks who don’t want to spend a fortune but still want a good phone. It’s always a bit of a balancing act, right? You want something that works well, has decent features, but doesn’t break the bank. Gizmodo’s reviews really dig into those details, helping you figure out if a phone is a good fit for your everyday needs.

Google Pixel 9a Review: One of the Best Deals in Smartphones

So, the Google Pixel 9a just dropped, and Gizmodo is saying it’s a pretty sweet deal. This phone packs a punch without emptying your wallet, making it a strong contender for anyone looking for value. It seems like Google is really trying to bring those premium features down to a more affordable price point. They’ve apparently managed to include a lot of the good stuff from their higher-end models, like the camera tech and some of that fancy AI, into this more budget-friendly version. It’s not always easy to find a phone that hits all those marks, but the Pixel 9a seems to be doing a good job. If you’re thinking about a new phone, this one might be worth a look, especially if you’re not keen on spending flagship money. It’s all about getting the essentials, plus some smart extras, for a price that feels right. For example, the camera on this thing is surprisingly good for its price range, often outperforming phones that cost a lot more. Plus, you get that clean Android experience, which is a big plus for many users. It’s a solid choice for someone who wants a reliable daily driver without all the bells and whistles of a super expensive phone. It’s a good alternative to the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Nothing Phone (3a) Review: a Cool Phone for People Who Want to Save Money

Then there’s the Nothing Phone (3a). This one is a bit different, and Gizmodo seems to think it’s a cool option for people who want to save some cash. Nothing is known for trying new things, and it looks like they’ve done it again with the (3a) and (3a) Pro. They’re trying to stand out in a market that can feel a bit same-y, and from the sounds of it, they’re succeeding. Of course, there are always some trade-offs when you go for a more affordable phone, but Gizmodo says the Nothing Phone (3a) manages to deliver a lot for its price. It’s for those who don’t mind a few compromises if it means getting a unique phone that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. It’s not going to be for everyone, but if you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary and you’re on a budget, this could be it. Here are some of the things that make it stand out:

• Unique design with transparent elements.
• Glyph Interface for notifications and calls.
• Solid performance for everyday tasks.
• Competitive pricing for its feature set.

It’s a phone that definitely gets people talking, and it’s good to see companies trying to innovate in the mid-range market. It’s not just about raw power; it’s about the overall experience and how it fits into your life.

Top Gadgets Reviewed by Gizmodo

The Best Gadgets of April 2025

April 2025 was a pretty good month for new tech, and Gizmodo was right there to check out all the cool stuff. We saw a bunch of interesting gadgets hit the market, from audio gear to smart home devices. It’s always exciting to see what companies come up with, and this past month definitely didn’t disappoint. We put a lot of these items through their paces to see what was really worth your money.

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the standout categories:

• Audio Equipment: Headphones and speakers continue to get better, with improved sound quality and noise cancellation.
• Smart Home Devices: More devices are integrating seamlessly, making home automation easier than ever.
• Wearables: Smartwatches and fitness trackers are becoming more sophisticated, offering better health monitoring.

One of the big highlights was the Sony WH-1000XM6 ANC Headphones. These headphones really impressed us with their sound and how well they blocked out noise. They’re definitely a top pick if you’re looking for new headphones.

Backbone Pro Review: The Most Popular Phone Controller Has a New Trick, but Is It Worth $170?

The Backbone Pro has been a favorite for mobile gamers for a while now, and they just dropped a new version with some extra features. The big question, as always, is whether these new additions justify the price tag. At $170, it’s not exactly cheap, so you want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth.

We spent a good amount of time with the updated Backbone Pro, testing it across various games and scenarios. Here’s what we found:

• New Features: The updated model includes haptic feedback and improved triggers, which definitely add to the immersion.
• Build Quality: It still feels solid and well-made, just like the previous version.
• Compatibility: Works great with a wide range of phones, both Android and iOS.

While the new features are cool, the $170 price point might be a bit steep for casual gamers. If you’re really into mobile gaming and want the best experience, it could be worth it. But for most people, the older model might still be a better deal.

Gizmodo’s Insights on Tech News

Tech news moves fast, and keeping up can feel like a full-time job. Luckily, Gizmodo is always on top of the latest developments, offering some really practical advice and deep dives into what’s happening. They don’t just report the news; they help you figure out what it means for you.

How to Use Google Lens in a Chrome Browser

Ever seen something online and wished you could just, like, point your browser at it and get more info? Well, Google Lens in Chrome is pretty much that. It’s a super handy tool that lets you search for things you see in images on the web. No more trying to describe that weird lamp you saw in a background of a photo; just use Lens.

Here’s how it generally works:

• Right-click on an image: When you’re browsing, just right-click on any picture that catches your eye.
• Select "Search image with Google Lens": A new option will pop up in the context menu. Click that.
• Get instant results: A sidebar will appear with all sorts of info related to the image, like where to buy the item, similar images, or even text recognition if there’s writing in the picture. It’s pretty wild how much it can figure out.

This feature is a game-changer for online shopping, research, or just satisfying your curiosity about something you spot. It really streamlines the whole "what is that thing?" process.

Forgot Your Wi-Fi Passwords? Here’s an Easy Way to Find Them Again

We’ve all been there. You’re trying to connect a new device, and suddenly, that super complex Wi-Fi password you set years ago is nowhere to be found. It’s a common headache, but Gizmodo has some solid tips for retrieving those forgotten credentials. It’s way easier than you might think to recover your Wi-Fi password, especially if you’re on a Windows or macOS machine.

Here are a few common methods:

• Check your router: Often, the default password is printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of your Wi-Fi router. If you never changed it, you’re in luck!
• Look in your computer’s settings: Both Windows and macOS store Wi-Fi passwords for networks you’ve connected to before. You can dig into your network settings and reveal them. It’s usually under "Network and Sharing Center" on Windows or "Keychain Access" on macOS.
• Use a third-party tool (with caution): There are some tools out there that can help, but you need to be careful about what you download. Stick to reputable sources if you go this route.

Knowing these tricks can save you a lot of frustration. It’s a good reminder that your computer often remembers more than you do. For more tech insights, Gizmodo is a great place to look.

Essential Gizmodo Guides

How to Tip Gizmodo

Ever wonder how those juicy tech scoops make it to Gizmodo? A lot of the time, it’s thanks to tips from people like you. Sharing information with Gizmodo is pretty straightforward, and they’ve got a few ways to make sure your anonymity is protected if that’s what you need. It’s not just about big leaks, either. Sometimes it’s a heads-up about a new product, a bug you found, or even just a cool tech trend you’ve noticed. They really do value input from their readers, and it helps them keep their content fresh and relevant. So, if you’ve got something to share, don’t hesitate. It could be anything from a minor glitch in a new app to a major industry secret. Every bit of information helps them stay on top of the tech world.

Best VPN Options Reviewed by Gizmodo

In today’s digital world, a good VPN is almost a necessity, not just a luxury. Gizmodo has spent a lot of time looking at different VPN services, trying to figure out which ones actually deliver on their promises. It’s not just about hiding your IP address; it’s about data security, bypassing geo-restrictions, and making sure your online activities stay private. They’ve looked at a bunch of factors, like speed, server locations, and how easy the software is to use. Picking the right VPN can be tricky because there are so many options out there, and not all of them are created equal. Some might log your data, which defeats the whole purpose, while others might slow down your internet connection to a crawl. Gizmodo’s reviews help cut through the noise, giving you a clear picture of what to expect from each service. For example, when considering a VPN, you should look at:

• No-log policy: Does the VPN keep records of your online activity? A good one won’t.
• Server network: More servers in more locations usually means better speeds and more access.
• Security features: Look for strong encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection.
• Pricing and plans: Make sure it fits your budget and offers the features you need.
• Customer support: Good support is key if you run into any issues.

They’ve even looked at how VPNs can help with specific tasks, like streaming content from other countries or keeping your data safe when you’re using public Wi-Fi. It’s all about making informed choices to protect your digital life. If you’re into astronomy and skywatching, a VPN can even help you access specialized forums or research papers that might be region-locked. It’s a small investment for a lot of peace of mind.

Gizmodo’s Take on Future Tech

Musk Still Thinks Mars Is a Go for 2026, Despite Starship’s Epic Losing Streak

Elon Musk, the guy behind SpaceX, is still pretty set on getting humans to Mars by 2026. It’s a bold claim, especially when you look at Starship’s track record. I mean, they’ve had a few, shall we say, unplanned rapid disassemblies lately. It makes you wonder if that 2026 target is more of a wish than a solid plan. Building a rocket that can actually get to Mars and back, safely, is a huge undertaking. It’s not just about the rocket itself, but all the life support, the radiation shielding, and figuring out how to grow food on another planet. It’s a lot to sort out in just a couple of years, even for someone like Musk who seems to thrive on impossible deadlines. The whole thing feels a bit like watching a high-stakes poker game where one player keeps upping the ante, even when their hand isn’t looking so great. Still, you can’t deny the ambition. It’s the kind of big, crazy idea that gets people talking about the future of space travel.

The Future Is Here: Gizmodo’s Vision

Gizmodo has always been pretty good at looking ahead, and our vision for the future of tech is pretty interesting. We’re talking about a world where AI isn’t just in our phones, but integrated into almost everything. Think smart homes that anticipate your needs before you even know them, or personalized health tech that monitors your body in real-time and flags potential issues. It’s not just about convenience, though. There’s a lot of talk about how these advancements could really change society, for better or worse. For example, the ability to synthesize any virus genome from scratch is a pretty scary thought, and it’s something we’ve been keeping an eye on. We’re also looking at things like advanced robotics taking over more mundane tasks, freeing up humans for more creative work. And then there’s the whole augmented reality thing – not just for gaming, but for everyday tasks, like navigating a new city or even performing complex surgeries. It’s a future that’s both exciting and a little bit daunting, with a lot of ethical questions to consider. But one thing’s for sure: the pace of innovation isn’t slowing down anytime soon. We’re on the cusp of some truly transformative changes, and Gizmodo is here to break it all down for you, the good, the bad, and the downright weird. We’re talking about a future where technology is so ingrained in our lives, it’s almost invisible. It’s going to be a wild ride, and we’re ready for it.

Gizmodo’s Gaming Gear Analysis

Backbone Pro Review: The Most Popular Phone Controller Has a New Trick, but Is It Worth $170?

So, the Backbone Pro. Everyone’s talking about it, right? It’s supposed to be the ultimate phone controller, and honestly, for a while, it really was. But now there’s this new trick, and the price tag is, well, $170. That’s a lot of money for something that basically turns your phone into a Switch. I mean, you could almost buy a whole new console for that. The original Backbone was already pretty good, so you have to wonder if this new feature really justifies the extra cash. Is it a game-changer, or just a fancy add-on that most people won’t even use? We’ve been putting it through its paces, trying out all sorts of games, from fast-paced shooters to more relaxed puzzle games, to see if it truly lives up to the hype. The big question is whether this new version offers enough to make it a must-have upgrade for serious mobile gamers.

Here’s a quick look at some of the pros and cons we’ve found:

• Pros:
  • Improved haptic feedback, which is pretty neat for immersion.
  • Better button responsiveness, feels more precise.
  • Slightly more comfortable grip for longer sessions.
• Cons:
  • The $170 price point is a tough pill to swallow.
  • The new "trick" isn’t universally supported by all games.
  • Battery life seems about the same as the older model.

Top Gaming Accessories of the Year

Alright, let’s talk about the best gaming accessories that have hit the market this year. It’s always a wild ride trying to figure out what’s actually worth your money and what’s just a gimmick. We’ve seen a ton of new headsets, keyboards, mice, and even some really wild stuff like specialized gaming chairs with built-in speakers. It’s easy to get lost in all the options. Our team has been testing everything, from the budget-friendly options to the high-end gear that costs an arm and a leg. We’re looking for things that genuinely improve your gaming experience, not just add flashy lights. For example, we’ve been really impressed with how far cloud gaming has come, especially with services like Nvidia’s GeForce Now making it possible to play high-end games without needing a super powerful PC. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between performance, comfort, and, of course, price. Nobody wants to break the bank for something that doesn’t deliver.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the categories we’ve focused on:

When you’re picking out new gear, it’s important to think about what kind of games you play most often. A competitive FPS player will need different things than someone who mostly plays single-player RPGs. It’s not just about having the latest and greatest; it’s about having the right tools for your specific gaming style. And trust me, there’s a lot of stuff out there that looks cool but doesn’t actually do much to help your game. We’re here to help you sort through all that noise and find the accessories that will actually make a difference.

Gizmodo’s Expert Opinions on AI

The Rise of AI: What Gizmodo Thinks

Gizmodo has been keeping a close eye on the whole AI situation, and honestly, it’s a mixed bag of feelings over here. On one hand, the advancements are pretty wild. We’re talking about systems that can write articles, create art, and even generate video that looks almost real. It’s like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s happening right now. The potential for these tools to change how we work and live is huge. Think about how much time could be saved on repetitive tasks, or how new creative avenues could open up. But then there’s the other side of the coin, the part that makes you scratch your head and wonder if we’re moving too fast. There are real concerns about job displacement, the spread of misinformation, and even deeper ethical questions about consciousness and control. It’s not just about the cool new features; it’s about the societal impact. We’ve seen some pretty convincing deepfakes already, and that’s just the beginning. The big question is, how do we make sure this technology helps humanity instead of hurting it? It’s a conversation that needs to happen now, not later, because AI isn’t waiting around for us to figure things out. We’re seeing a lot of different AI models pop up, each with its own set of capabilities and potential issues.

AI in Everyday Life: Gizmodo’s Perspective

When it comes to AI showing up in our daily routines, Gizmodo’s take is pretty straightforward: it’s already here, and it’s only going to get more integrated. You might not even realize it, but AI is powering a lot of the stuff you use every day. Think about your phone’s voice assistant, the recommendations you get on streaming services, or even how your email sorts out spam. That’s all AI doing its thing in the background. We’re seeing it in smart home devices, in cars, and even in how companies handle customer service. The convenience factor is definitely there. It makes things easier, faster, and sometimes, just plain smarter. But then you start thinking about privacy. All this AI needs data to learn and improve, and that data often comes from us. How much are we giving away? And who’s watching? It’s a trade-off, right? We get the convenience, but we might be giving up a bit of our digital footprint. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it’s something to be aware of. We’re also seeing AI being used in more creative ways, like helping artists and musicians, which is pretty cool. It’s a constant balance between innovation and making sure we’re not just blindly accepting everything without thinking about the consequences.

Wrapping Things Up

So, what’s the takeaway from all these Gizmodo reviews? Well, it seems like they’re really trying to give us the real scoop on new tech. They don’t just say everything is great, which is nice. It helps you figure out what’s actually worth your money and what might just be hype. Keep an eye on their site, because they’re always checking out the latest stuff, and it can save you some headaches down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Gizmodo?

Gizmodo is a popular website that talks about all sorts of tech stuff. They write reviews of new gadgets, share important tech news, and give helpful tips on how to use technology better. Think of them as your friendly guide to the world of electronics and digital trends.

What kinds of tech does Gizmodo review?

Gizmodo looks at many different things! They check out the newest phones, cool new gadgets, and even things like gaming gear. If it’s tech, they probably have an opinion on it.

Does Gizmodo offer helpful guides and tips?

Yes, they do! Gizmodo often gives advice on how to use popular tech tools, like Google Lens, or how to find lost Wi-Fi passwords. They want to help you get the most out of your devices.

How does Gizmodo cover future technology and AI?

Gizmodo keeps a close eye on new ideas, especially in artificial intelligence (AI) and space travel. They like to share what they think about how these things might change our future.

Why should I read Gizmodo’s reviews before buying new tech?

Gizmodo is a great place to find honest opinions on whether a new gadget is worth your money. They break down the good and bad parts so you can decide if it’s right for you.

How can I keep up with Gizmodo’s latest articles and reviews?

You can stay updated by visiting their website regularly! They always have new articles and reviews coming out. You can also follow them on social media to see their latest posts.