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Google Home Favorites widget now on Android

by sengideons on
Google Home finally gets a widget

The Google Home Favorites widget has officially launched on Android, offering users a simplified and more customizable way to control their smart homes. This widget is designed to streamline access to essential smart home devices and actions, making it a valuable tool for Android users looking to enhance their smart home management. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the widget’s features, customization options, compatibility, and future updates.

Understanding the Google Home Favorites Widget

The Google Home Favorites widget, introduced in Google Home version 3.24, serves as a shortcut for managing smart home devices directly from the Android homescreen. This widget offers seamless integration with various smart home devices, allowing users to control lights, locks, thermostats, and more with a simple tap. It reflects Google’s continued efforts to simplify smart home automation and control on mobile platforms.

Compatibility

This feature is available for Android devices running Android 12 or later, making it accessible to most modern smartphones. While iOS support is still limited, users can expect further updates to improve cross-platform compatibility.

Key Features of the Google Home Favorites Widget

The widget offers numerous powerful features to make smart home management more convenient:

  1. User Authentication: For security purposes, certain sensitive actions, such as unlocking smart locks or opening garage doors, require additional authentication. This added layer of protection ensures that only authorized users can control key devices.
  2. Device Controls: Users can toggle devices like lights, plugs, and blinds directly from the widget. More advanced devices, such as thermostats and cameras, open their dedicated control pages within the Google Home app when tapped.
  3. Live Data Updates: The widget refreshes device status every 30 minutes, providing users with up-to-date information about their smart home setup. While some actions may take a moment to reflect, the widget ensures users are always informed about the current state of their devices.
The new Google Home Favorites widget lets you easily interact with smart home devices from the homescreen. Image: Google
The new Google Home Favorites widget lets you easily interact with smart home devices from the homescreen. Image: Google

Customization Options for a Personalized Experience

Customization is one of the standout features of the Google Home Favorites widget. Users can either sync the widget with their existing favorites from the Google Home app or handpick specific devices to display within the widget. This flexibility allows users to design a homescreen layout that suits their preferences and needs.

The widget can also be resized to fit any homescreen space, ranging from a single tile to an entire homescreen grid. Additionally, users can have multiple instances of the widget, each displaying different devices or actions for quick access. The ability to switch between different homes, edit layouts, and choose specific device groups ensures a highly personalized experience.

Compatibility and Requirements for Seamless Functionality

To enjoy the full benefits of the Google Home Favorites widget, users must have an Android device running Android 12 or later. While it is currently not fully available for iOS, there is growing speculation about expanded compatibility for iOS devices in the future. Joining the Public Preview program allows users to experience this feature before it becomes widely available, giving them early access to new updates and features.

Joining the Public Preview Program to Experience Early Access Benefits

The Public Preview program allows users to test new features and updates before they are officially released. By navigating to the Google Home app’s settings and opting into the preview, users can experience the widget’s functionalities and provide feedback to help shape its development.

Future Updates and Features to Look Forward To

Google is actively working on expanding the widget’s features. Future updates are expected to include automation support, enabling users to automate routines and control multiple devices simultaneously. This development promises to enhance the overall smart home management experience, giving users more control and flexibility over how their homes operate.

Wear OS Integration: Managing Smart Homes from Your Wrist

In addition to the Android widget, Google is introducing a Favorites tile for Wear OS devices. This feature will allow users to control smart home devices directly from their smartwatch, further simplifying the process of managing a smart home ecosystem.

Conclusion: Embrace Enhanced Smart Home Management with Google Home Favorites Widget on Android!

The Google Home Favorites widget brings a new level of convenience and control to smart home management. With its customizable layout, security-focused design, and compatibility with a wide range of devices, it’s a must-have tool for Android users invested in smart home automation. By leveraging this widget, users can streamline their day-to-day interactions with their smart homes, enhancing both functionality and ease of use. As future updates introduce automation and Wear OS integration, the Google Home ecosystem will become even more powerful, cementing its place as a leader in smart home technology.

If you’re an Android user, now is the perfect time to explore the Google Home Favorites widget and experience a new way to manage your smart home. Give it a try, and share your thoughts on its effectiveness in transforming your home management experience.

read more
Technology

Can You Really Ride in a Tesla’s Cybercab robotaxi for Under $30K?

by sengideons on
Tesla’s Cybercab robotaxi
Introduction Tesla’s Cybercab robotaxi is here — and it could cost less than $30K. This groundbreaking announcement from Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, marks a significant milestone in the electric vehicle (EV) market. The Cybercab is poised to revolutionize urban transportation with its advanced autonomous technology and affordable pricing. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the Cybercab, explore its unique features, and examine its potential impact on the automotive industry and urban mobility. Overview of Tesla's Cybercab The Cybercab is designed to resemble Tesla’s futuristic Cybertruck, featuring a bold and innovative design that sets it apart from traditional vehicles. This two-seater robotaxi boasts state-of-the-art autonomous driving capabilities, making it a pioneer in the realm of driverless transportation. Design and Features The Cybercab's design is a testament to Tesla’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation. With its angular lines and metallic finish, the Cybercab is not only visually striking but also highly functional. The two-seater configuration ensures a compact and efficient design, making it ideal for urban environments where space is at a premium. Key features of the Cybercab include advanced sensors and AI algorithms that enable seamless navigation and autonomous driving. The vehicle is equipped with a robust array of cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors that provide a 360-degree view of its surroundings, ensuring safe and efficient operation. Specifications and Performance While detailed specifications are still emerging, the Cybercab is expected to deliver impressive performance metrics. The vehicle is designed to be both energy-efficient and powerful, leveraging Tesla’s expertise in electric drivetrains. It is anticipated that the Cybercab will offer a substantial range on a single charge, making it suitable for extended use in urban settings. A Game Changer in Pricing Strategy One of the most notable aspects of the Cybercab is its affordability. Tesla has announced a bold pricing strategy, setting the cost of the Cybercab at less than $30K. This move is aimed at making autonomous vehicles accessible to a broader audience, potentially transforming the market dynamics of robotaxi services and electric vehicles. Affordability and Market Competition The competitive pricing of the Cybercab positions it as an attractive option for consumers and businesses alike. In comparison to other robotaxi services and electric vehicles, the Cybercab’s affordability is a game changer. It opens up the possibility of widespread adoption, particularly in urban areas where the demand for efficient and cost-effective transportation solutions is high. Accelerating Consumer Adoption Tesla’s aggressive pricing approach is likely to accelerate consumer adoption of autonomous vehicles. By making the Cybercab affordable, Tesla is not only democratizing access to cutting-edge technology but also paving the way for a future where autonomous transportation is the norm. This strategy could significantly boost Tesla’s market share and establish the Cybercab as a dominant player in the robotaxi sector. Unveiling the Technology Behind the Wheel The Cybercab is powered by some of the most advanced autonomous technology available today. Tesla has integrated AI algorithms and sophisticated navigation systems to ensure the vehicle can operate safely and efficiently without human intervention. Autonomous Technology and AI Integration At the heart of the Cybercab’s capabilities is its AI-driven autonomous system. Tesla has developed proprietary algorithms that enable the vehicle to make real-time decisions based on its surroundings. This includes everything from detecting obstacles and navigating complex traffic scenarios to optimizing routes for efficiency. Advanced Sensors and Navigation Systems
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Technology

Tesla’s Elon Musk Introduces the Cybercab Robotaxi and the Versatile Robovan

by sengideons on
Tesla’s Elon Musk unveils the Cybercab robotaxi — and also the Robovan
Introduction Tesla's Elon Musk has once again captivated the world with his latest unveiling event, where he introduced the groundbreaking Cybercab robotaxi and the innovative Robovan. These autonomous vehicles represent the future of transportation, showcasing Tesla's pioneering spirit and commitment to revolutionizing urban mobility. In this blog post, we will explore the key features and highlights of the Cybercab and Robovan, and how they set themselves apart from traditional vehicles. The Unveiling Event at Warner Bros Studios Robotaxi is premium point-to-point electric transport, accessible to everyone pic.twitter.com/oLykwaaTHm — Tesla (@Tesla) October 11, 2024 A Cinematic Reveal
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MOBLIE

iOS 18: How to Change Lock Screen Controls on iPhone
Mobile

iOS 18: How to Change Lock Screen Controls on iPhone Like a Pro

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Mobile

Google Home Favorites widget now on Android

by sengideons on
Google Home finally gets a widget

The Google Home Favorites widget has officially launched on Android, offering users a simplified and more customizable way to control their smart homes. This widget is designed to streamline access to essential smart home devices and actions, making it a valuable tool for Android users looking to enhance their smart home management. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the widget’s features, customization options, compatibility, and future updates.

Understanding the Google Home Favorites Widget

The Google Home Favorites widget, introduced in Google Home version 3.24, serves as a shortcut for managing smart home devices directly from the Android homescreen. This widget offers seamless integration with various smart home devices, allowing users to control lights, locks, thermostats, and more with a simple tap. It reflects Google’s continued efforts to simplify smart home automation and control on mobile platforms.

Compatibility

This feature is available for Android devices running Android 12 or later, making it accessible to most modern smartphones. While iOS support is still limited, users can expect further updates to improve cross-platform compatibility.

Key Features of the Google Home Favorites Widget

The widget offers numerous powerful features to make smart home management more convenient:

  1. User Authentication: For security purposes, certain sensitive actions, such as unlocking smart locks or opening garage doors, require additional authentication. This added layer of protection ensures that only authorized users can control key devices.
  2. Device Controls: Users can toggle devices like lights, plugs, and blinds directly from the widget. More advanced devices, such as thermostats and cameras, open their dedicated control pages within the Google Home app when tapped.
  3. Live Data Updates: The widget refreshes device status every 30 minutes, providing users with up-to-date information about their smart home setup. While some actions may take a moment to reflect, the widget ensures users are always informed about the current state of their devices.
The new Google Home Favorites widget lets you easily interact with smart home devices from the homescreen. Image: Google
The new Google Home Favorites widget lets you easily interact with smart home devices from the homescreen. Image: Google

Customization Options for a Personalized Experience

Customization is one of the standout features of the Google Home Favorites widget. Users can either sync the widget with their existing favorites from the Google Home app or handpick specific devices to display within the widget. This flexibility allows users to design a homescreen layout that suits their preferences and needs.

The widget can also be resized to fit any homescreen space, ranging from a single tile to an entire homescreen grid. Additionally, users can have multiple instances of the widget, each displaying different devices or actions for quick access. The ability to switch between different homes, edit layouts, and choose specific device groups ensures a highly personalized experience.

Compatibility and Requirements for Seamless Functionality

To enjoy the full benefits of the Google Home Favorites widget, users must have an Android device running Android 12 or later. While it is currently not fully available for iOS, there is growing speculation about expanded compatibility for iOS devices in the future. Joining the Public Preview program allows users to experience this feature before it becomes widely available, giving them early access to new updates and features.

Joining the Public Preview Program to Experience Early Access Benefits

The Public Preview program allows users to test new features and updates before they are officially released. By navigating to the Google Home app’s settings and opting into the preview, users can experience the widget’s functionalities and provide feedback to help shape its development.

Future Updates and Features to Look Forward To

Google is actively working on expanding the widget’s features. Future updates are expected to include automation support, enabling users to automate routines and control multiple devices simultaneously. This development promises to enhance the overall smart home management experience, giving users more control and flexibility over how their homes operate.

Wear OS Integration: Managing Smart Homes from Your Wrist

In addition to the Android widget, Google is introducing a Favorites tile for Wear OS devices. This feature will allow users to control smart home devices directly from their smartwatch, further simplifying the process of managing a smart home ecosystem.

Conclusion: Embrace Enhanced Smart Home Management with Google Home Favorites Widget on Android!

The Google Home Favorites widget brings a new level of convenience and control to smart home management. With its customizable layout, security-focused design, and compatibility with a wide range of devices, it’s a must-have tool for Android users invested in smart home automation. By leveraging this widget, users can streamline their day-to-day interactions with their smart homes, enhancing both functionality and ease of use. As future updates introduce automation and Wear OS integration, the Google Home ecosystem will become even more powerful, cementing its place as a leader in smart home technology.

If you’re an Android user, now is the perfect time to explore the Google Home Favorites widget and experience a new way to manage your smart home. Give it a try, and share your thoughts on its effectiveness in transforming your home management experience.

read more
Mobile

iOS 18: How to Change Lock Screen Controls on iPhone Like a Pro

by sengideons on
iOS 18: How to Change Lock Screen Controls on iPhone

Introduction

Apple’s iOS 18 has brought with it a wave of fresh updates that significantly enhance the iPhone experience. Among the most exciting updates is the ability to customize your Lock Screen controls. This feature empowers users to personalize their Lock Screen like never before, providing greater convenience and control at their fingertips. Whether you want quick access to frequently used apps or streamline your phone’s functionality, iOS 18’s Lock Screen customization allows you to tweak your iPhone experience to suit your preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the iOS 18 Lock Screen controls, guide you step-by-step through customizing them, and explain why these features are worth your attention.

Understanding iOS 18 Features

Before diving into the specifics of Lock Screen customization, it’s worth understanding the broader set of features introduced in iOS 18. Apple has increasingly focused on user customization and personalization, putting users in control of their device’s interface and functionality. This update emphasizes the flexibility of adjusting lock screen controls, widgets, and shortcuts to streamline tasks.

  • Key New Features in iOS 18:
    • Advanced Lock Screen Customization: Users can now modify their Lock Screen with more control options, offering direct access to apps like Quick Note or Translate.
    • Improved Multitasking: Enhanced support for multitasking, including using widgets directly on the Lock Screen.
    • Apple Intelligence Enhancements: AI-driven recommendations for quick actions on the Lock Screen based on usage patterns.

The focus on personalization improves accessibility, streamlines multitasking, and enhances the user experience, allowing iPhone users to take full advantage of their device’s capabilities.

The Importance of Lock Screen Customization

With iOS 18, the Lock Screen is no longer just for glancing at notifications or quickly accessing the Camera and Flashlight. Apple has transformed it into a dynamic and customizable interface that improves accessibility and efficiency. Whether you’re someone who uses your iPhone for work or personal tasks, customizing the Lock Screen to suit your routine can provide significant benefits.

Benefits of Customizing the Lock Screen

  1. Efficiency: Adding shortcuts to frequently used apps or controls eliminates the need to unlock your phone to access them.
  2. Personalization: You can tailor the Lock Screen to reflect your habits, whether it’s adding controls for productivity apps like Notes or more entertainment-focused apps like Music.
  3. Enhanced Accessibility: Customizing your Lock Screen makes it easier for people with disabilities or older adults to interact with their devices.

Overall, customizing the Lock Screen allows you to craft an iPhone experience that feels more intuitive and personal, putting you in control of how your phone functions from the moment you pick it up.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Lock Screen Controls on Your iPhone with iOS 18

Step 1: Accessing the Lock Screen Customization

iOS 18: How to Change Your iPhone's Lock Screen Controls

To begin, you’ll first need to access the customization settings for your Lock Screen. This is a straightforward process in iOS 18:

  • Long-press the Lock Screen to enter customization mode.
  • Once the Lock Screen moves into edit mode, tap the ‘Customize’ button located at the bottom of the screen. This option will allow you to modify and manage various control options available on your iPhone’s Lock Screen.

At this stage, you’ll notice that the existing controls, such as the Camera and Flashlight, can be edited or removed.

Step 2: Removing Default Controls from Your iPhone’s Lock Screen

iOS 18: How to Change Your iPhone's Lock Screen Controls

Apple has always placed the Camera and Flashlight on the Lock Screen for convenience. However, some users might find these controls redundant or want to replace them with something more relevant to their daily tasks.

  • To remove these default controls:
    • Tap the minus (-) sign beside the Camera or Flashlight icons.
    • Once tapped, these controls will disappear from your Lock Screen.
    • This simple step frees up space for more useful controls.

Removing default controls is essential for those looking to simplify their Lock Screen or replace the existing setup with new, more customized options.

Step 3: Adding New Controls to Your iPhone’s Lock Screen with iOS 18

iOS 18: How to Change Your iPhone's Lock Screen Controls

Once the default controls are removed, you can now start adding new ones that fit your needs:

  • Tap the plus (+) icon to add new controls. A variety of options will appear, allowing you to pick controls such as:
    • Quick Note: Easily jot down ideas without unlocking your phone.
    • Translate: Access Apple’s Translate app directly from the Lock Screen for quick translations on the go.
    • Open App: Assign an app of your choice to the Lock Screen, such as your most frequently used social media or work app.

By tapping on your preferred control, you’ll automatically add it to your Lock Screen. This flexibility allows you to streamline your phone’s functionality based on your preferences.

Step 4: Finalizing Changes to Your Customized Lock Screen Controls on iPhone

After selecting and adding your preferred controls, you need to finalize your choices to save the changes. This step is crucial to ensure that the modifications you made stay in place.

  • To finalize your changes, simply tap ‘Done’ in the top-right corner of the customization screen.
  • After saving, check your Lock Screen to ensure the controls are positioned as intended.

Once saved, these Lock Screen controls will be ready for immediate use the next time you access your iPhone. You can enjoy a more personalized experience with the shortcuts and controls you find most useful right on the Lock Screen.

Special Customization Options for Action Button Users with iOS 18

For users of the iPhone 16 Pro and 15 Pro, Apple has introduced additional customization options for the Action Button. This feature offers another layer of functionality for Lock Screen controls:

  • The Action Button can be customized to trigger shortcuts or specific actions, like opening the Camera, activating Silent Mode, or launching an app of your choice.
  • To access and modify the Action Button settings:
    • Navigate to Settings > Action Button.
    • Choose which function you want the button to perform. This customization allows Pro model users to have more control over their Lock Screen shortcuts.

The Action Button serves as a quick-access solution, especially for users who prioritize speed and efficiency when accessing apps or tools from their Lock Screen.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lock Screen Customization in iOS 18

  • What controls can I add to the Lock Screen?
    • iOS 18 allows users to add various controls to the Lock Screen, such as Translate, Quick Note, and Open App. These controls are designed to provide quick access to apps and features without unlocking your iPhone.
  • Can I revert my Lock Screen changes back to default?
    • Yes. You can easily restore the default Lock Screen controls by revisiting the Customize menu and tapping the reset option.
  • Will the customization options be available for older iPhone models?
    • While many features of iOS 18 will be available across iPhone models, certain advanced customization options, such as the Action Button customization, are exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro and 15 Pro.

Conclusion

Customizing your iPhone’s Lock Screen in iOS 18 allows you to optimize your device for greater productivity, convenience, and personalization. With the ability to remove default controls, add new ones, and even utilize the Action Button on Pro models, Apple continues to prioritize a tailored user experience. These customization options empower users to configure their iPhone exactly how they want, ensuring that everything they need is just a swipe or tap away. Whether you want quick access to Notes, Translate, or your favorite app, iOS 18 ensures that your Lock Screen works as efficiently as you do.

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Applications

iOS 18.1 Beta 5: What’s New and What to Expect

by sengideons on
iOS 18.1 Public Beta 5: Your iPhone Could Get These Features Soon

Introduction

Apple continues to refine its software ecosystem with the release of iOS 18.1 Beta 5, a major update that brings several new features aimed at enhancing the overall iPhone experience. As with most beta releases, this version offers a glimpse of what iOS users can expect soon, including both major overhauls and subtle tweaks to existing features. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the key features of iOS 18.1 Beta 5 and explore how these updates will impact your iPhone usage, especially if you’re a fan of Apple’s ecosystem.

Key Features of iOS 18.1 Beta 5

  1. Control Center Tweaks

    • One of the most noticeable changes in iOS 18.1 Beta 5 is the update to the Control Center, which has received a few helpful tweaks. New dedicated toggles for Wi-Fi, VPN, and resetting the layout have been added, making it easier for users to control essential settings without digging through menus.
    • The addition of a reset option for icon layout is especially beneficial for those who like to customize their Control Center layout but want an easy way to restore it to its default state.

  2. Camera Control Enhancements

    • iOS 18.1 Beta 5 introduces new camera control features, particularly for iPhone 16 users. A highly anticipated feature is the ability to switch to the front-facing camera more efficiently for selfies. Apple has optimized these controls, making it easier for users to take professional-looking selfies.
    • These enhancements are part of Apple’s continuous effort to refine photography and video capabilities, which are becoming a cornerstone of the iPhone experience. These updates not only improve ease of use but also help users make the most out of the iPhone’s powerful camera system.

  3. RCS Messaging Expansion

    • One significant upgrade in iOS 18.1 Beta 5 is the expansion of RCS (Rich Communication Services) support, which includes carriers in Belgium such as Telenet and Proximus. For those unfamiliar with RCS, it offers an upgrade over traditional SMS messaging by including features like read receipts, typing indicators, and the ability to share high-resolution images and videos.
    • This update is part of Apple’s broader initiative to enhance the messaging experience, particularly in regions where RCS adoption is on the rise. With iOS 18.1, Apple continues to bridge the gap between iMessage and RCS, providing a more unified and modern messaging experience.

iPhone Mirroring Improvements and Apple Intelligence Features in iOS 18.1 Beta 5

  1. iPhone Mirroring Improvements

    • Another exciting update is the improvements to iPhone Mirroring, allowing for more seamless file transfers between devices. The introduction of drag and drop functionality between mirrored devices is a game-changer for users who frequently work between their iPhone and iPad or Mac. This feature significantly improves productivity, making it easier to transfer files across Apple’s ecosystem without needing third-party solutions.

  2. Apple Intelligence Features

    • The Apple Intelligence features debuting in iOS 18.1 mark a significant step in integrating AI within iOS. These capabilities help streamline various tasks such as proofreading text, removing unwanted objects from photos, and creating custom memory movies within the Photos app. Apple Intelligence is also embedded in Mail and Messages, providing smarter replies and more helpful thread summaries.
    • The most impressive AI integration, however, is in Siri, which is becoming more conversational and better at handling complex requests. Users can now type to Siri and enjoy a more natural voice response. Overall, these features are designed to boost productivity, whether you’re managing your messages, emails, or even editing photos​

Visual Enhancements in the Settings App

  1. Minor Visual Tweaks

    • While the bulk of the improvements in iOS 18.1 Beta 5 focus on functionality, there are also some minor visual changes within the Settings app, particularly related to Apple Intelligence features. These tweaks enhance user experience by making important settings easier to access and understand. Though subtle, these updates contribute to a smoother, more intuitive experience for users exploring the new AI features.

Understanding Changes in iOS Beta Updates

  1. Role of Developer Beta Testers

    • It’s worth noting that the ongoing improvements in iOS 18.1 Beta 5 wouldn’t be possible without the feedback provided by developer beta testers. These testers play a crucial role in ensuring that the features are refined and bug-free before they reach the general public. By downloading and using beta versions, developers identify potential issues and provide feedback to Apple, which helps improve the final release.
    • Additionally, beta testers offer valuable insights into how the new features work in real-world settings, contributing to the final user experience once the update is officially rolled out​.

Conclusion

iOS 18.1 Beta 5 introduces a blend of user experience enhancements, new AI-driven features, and essential updates to the iPhone’s core functionality. From improved Control Center toggles and camera controls to expanded RCS support and Apple Intelligence features, this beta version is shaping up to be one of Apple’s most feature-rich updates in recent years. Whether you’re a power user or simply someone looking to take better photos and streamline messaging, iOS 18.1 has something for everyone.

Stay tuned as Apple continues to roll out improvements, with many of these features expected to be refined further before the official release. If you’re running the beta, be sure to explore these updates and see how they can improve your daily iPhone usage.

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Reviews

Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II review: What Makes it Stand Out for Portraits?

by sengideons on
Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II review: a spectacular portrait lens
8.75tech score

Introduction

Portrait photographers are constantly in search of lenses that offer a perfect balance of sharpness, bokeh, and speed. The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is a lens that has captured the attention of professionals for its remarkable ability to deliver spectacular portrait images. With the high expectations set by its predecessor, the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM, this new iteration brings significant improvements. This review dives deep into the lens’s design, optical performance, autofocus capabilities, and user experience to determine if it truly lives up to the hype.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first noticeable aspects of the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is its design. It’s lighter and more compact compared to the first-generation model. Weighing just 516 grams, the new version is significantly lighter than its predecessor, making it easier to handle during long shooting sessions. Its 99mm length and 87mm diameter contribute to its compact design, adding to its portability. These physical changes are welcome, especially for photographers who spend long hours on shoots or prefer to travel light without sacrificing performance.

Another crucial feature is the weather sealing, which protects the lens from dust, moisture, and light splashes. For outdoor photographers, especially those who often work in unpredictable weather conditions, this level of protection is essential for maintaining equipment longevity.

Lens Weight Comparison:

  • Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II: 516g
  • Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM: 820g

The weight reduction has improved the handling experience while maintaining the same sturdy, premium feel that users expect from Sony’s G Master series.

Optical Performance

Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II: One-minute review
(Image credit: Rod Lawton) – techradar.com

When it comes to optical performance, the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II shines. The lens is built with Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and Extreme Aspherical (XA) elements, which help reduce chromatic aberrations and ensure high resolution across the entire frame. The result is impressive image clarity, even when shooting wide open at f/1.4.

A key feature of this lens is the Nano AR Coating II, which significantly reduces flare and ghosting, even in challenging lighting situations. This is particularly useful for portrait photographers who often shoot in backlit environments or during the golden hour.

Bokeh Quality Test:

Portrait photography enthusiasts will appreciate the lens’s ability to create beautiful, creamy bokeh. The 11-blade circular diaphragm enhances the out-of-focus areas, making backgrounds melt away while keeping the subject tack-sharp. This makes the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II perfect for isolating subjects in portrait shots and adding a professional aesthetic to the images.

Additionally, the sharpness of the lens remains consistent across various aperture settings, allowing photographers to maintain excellent detail at both wide apertures and smaller ones, depending on their creative needs.

Autofocus Capabilities

Autofocus speed and accuracy are critical in portrait photography, and the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II excels in this regard. Thanks to four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors, the autofocus is both faster and quieter than the previous model. This improvement makes it ideal for capturing spontaneous moments, especially during dynamic portrait sessions where subjects may move unexpectedly.

One of the standout features is the AI-driven Eye Detection AF, which ensures that the eyes of your subject are always in perfect focus. For portrait photographers, eye sharpness is non-negotiable, and this lens ensures you never miss the mark. Even in low-light conditions or fast-moving shoots, the lens maintains precision, delivering stunning portraits every time.

Bokeh Effects and Focus Breathing Control

Bokeh refers to the aesthetic quality of the out-of-focus areas in an image, and it plays a vital role in portrait photography. The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II offers some of the best bokeh effects you’ll find in its class. Thanks to its wide f/1.4 aperture and 11 diaphragm blades, the lens produces soft, creamy bokeh that perfectly complements the sharpness of the in-focus subject. This creates a striking separation between the subject and background, allowing for stunning, professional-looking portraits.

Focus breathing, a common issue in lenses that causes a slight zoom effect when adjusting focus, is controlled well in the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II. Sony has implemented focus breathing suppression to minimize changes in framing while focusing. This is especially useful in video work or when shooting portraits where you want consistent composition.

Pros:

  1. Exceptional Optical Quality: The lens offers superior sharpness and clarity, thanks to its ED and XA elements that minimize chromatic aberrations and deliver high-resolution images.
  2. Lightweight and Compact: Weighing just 516g, the lens is significantly lighter than its predecessor, making it easier to handle during extended shoots.
  3. Beautiful Bokeh: With its wide f/1.4 aperture and 11-blade diaphragm, the lens produces creamy and pleasing bokeh, perfect for portrait photography.
  4. Fast and Accurate Autofocus: The lens features four XD linear motors, offering fast, quiet, and precise autofocus, which is crucial for dynamic portrait sessions.
  5. Weather Sealing: The lens is equipped with weather sealing, protecting it from dust and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor photography in various conditions.
  6. Excellent Eye Detection AF: Paired with Sony’s cameras, the Eye Detection AF ensures perfect focus on your subject’s eyes, making it ideal for portrait photography.
  7. Focus Breathing Control: The lens includes technology to suppress focus breathing, which helps maintain consistent framing when adjusting focus.
  8. Smooth Handling: Ergonomically designed with easy-to-access controls like an aperture ring and focus hold button, enhancing usability during fast-paced shoots.

Cons:

  1. High Price: The lens is quite expensive, which may not fit the budget of hobbyist or beginner photographers.
  2. Lacks Image Stabilization: There’s no built-in image stabilization, so using the lens in low-light conditions might require a tripod or a camera with in-body stabilization.
  3. Still Heavy Compared to Other Lenses: While lighter than its predecessor, the lens might still feel heavy for some users, especially when paired with larger camera bodies.
  4. Limited to Portrait and Low-Light Scenarios: Although it excels in portrait photography, the fixed 85mm focal length can be limiting for other types of photography, such as landscape or street photography.
  5. Expensive Accessories: Some accessories, such as filters or lens hoods, may be costly due to the lens’s size and premium quality.

Quick specs

Lens mount Sony FE (full frame)
Focal length 85mm
Maximum aperture: f/1.4
Lens construction 14 elements 11 groups
Aperture blades 11
Filter size 77mm
Dimensions (L x W) 107.3x 84.7mm
Weight 642g

Source: techradar.com

Compatibility with Different Camera Systems

The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is designed for Sony’s full-frame E-mount cameras, but it also works with APS-C camera formats. When paired with an APS-C sensor, the equivalent focal length becomes 127mm, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to achieve more telephoto perspectives in portrait photography.

The lens performs exceptionally well when paired with Sony’s high-performance cameras, such as the Sony A9 III. The combination of the camera’s fast processing power and the lens’s sharp autofocus ensures that you’ll be able to capture quick movements and expressions with ease.

User Experience Insights from Professional Photographers

Professional photographers who have tested the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II consistently praise its handling and usability. The lightweight design makes it comfortable for long shoots, and the intuitive placement of controls, such as the aperture ring and focus hold button, adds to its overall ease of use.

Ergonomically, the lens is well-balanced, even when mounted on heavier camera bodies. Photographers have found that the lens’s ability to switch between manual and autofocus with ease is crucial during fast-paced shooting scenarios, where adjustments need to be made on the fly.

In terms of overall usability, the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II offers a seamless experience, making it a go-to choice for portrait photographers who need a reliable lens that delivers both performance and comfort.

Conclusion: Is the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II Worth It?

In conclusion, the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is undoubtedly one of the best portrait lenses available in the market today. Its combination of lightweight design, superior optical performance, fast and accurate autofocus, and stunning bokeh effects make it a top choice for both amateur and professional portrait photographers. The improvements in autofocus speed, weight reduction, and optical quality compared to its predecessor make it a worthy investment for anyone serious about portrait photography.

If you’re looking for a lens that delivers spectacular portraits with beautiful background separation and flawless focus, the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM II is an excellent choice. Its price point may be high, but the performance and image quality it offers make it a lens that will stand the test of time, ensuring that your portrait work remains top-notch for years to come.

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